Heart of a Dove: Ydris x Reader

Chapter Five: A Fool's Hope

I avoided the circus for a several weeks after my incident with Loretta, focusing on my riding. I told no one about my problems except Maya, who I begged to keep my issues a secret, to which she grudgingly agreed. I knew I should have spoken to an instructor or even Mr. Moorland about my situation, but I feared that one step out of line would make Loretta post the video. She already had a large social media following but a scandal like that was sure to get more attention than it was worth. And if the video and rumors reached Mr. Moorland? What then? I was sure he wouldn't expel me but the seed of doubt would still be planted in his mind and his faith in me would be tarnished. I couldn't bear the thought of the disappointment he would feel in me if it all went south. All I did was talk to Justin a few times around the stables and kiss a man I hardly even knew.. I didn't understand why Loretta had to make such a big deal out of it all. She even started forcing me to clean her tack and slave away doing chores for her on top of everything else I had to do. To make matters worse, the instructors were starting to hand out homework..

After a few weeks of blackmail and manipulation I decided I needed a change. The atmosphere at Moorland was becoming more toxic by the day and I had reached my breaking point. Maybe I should go see Ydris.. He might have a solution. I wondered to myself as I lay in bed one night, too troubled to sleep. Everything that had been happening had taken a toll on my sleeping patterns. It was rare if I could get a full night of rest anymore. Suddenly, my mind was made up. I was going to see Ydris and I was going to see him now. Maybe he knew of a way to help me? I threw a coat on and scrambled into my riding boots, not even bothering to change out of my pijamas before dashing out the door and towards the stables. I knew I wasn't thinking rationally but what other choice did I have?

(H/n) whickered at me in confusion as I opened his/her stall door and led him/her out of the stable. "Shh.. We need to be quiet.." I warned my horse, glancing around anxiously to make sure no one had woken up. (H/n) sensed my anxiety and nudged me gently on the shoulder, the way he/she always did when I was upset. It was his/her own special way of comforting me. I smiled and gently stroked his/her velvety muzzle before leaping onto his/her back. I didn't even bother putting on tack. I had ridden completely bareback many times before this. Though, I had never ridden in the dark before.

I clicked my heels, guiding my horse into a quick trot out of the stable yard, wincing at every hoof beat that fell, which reverberated off the walls in a loud, clattering echo. Oh God, I hope no one is hearing this! I thought frantically. Once we were out past the gate, the going was much easier, not to mention much more quiet. I thanked my lucky stars that there was a full moon, or else it would have been nearly impossible to see. I guided (h/n) into a brisk canter, letting the cool night air chill my face. The stars shone so brightly in Jorvik.. Much brighter than the stars back home.

Home...

I couldn't help feeling a tightness in my chest at the thought of home. I missed my family so much. Especially now, considering my circumstances. I couldn't wait to see them on winter break. Last time I spoke to them they told me they were saving up to make a trip to Jorvik for the holidays. I didn't come from a very wealthy family and I knew they were paying a lot of money already just to send me here so I could become a professional equestrian. Usually I just used my own money to fly home for the holidays so it was exciting that they would be able to see Jorvik in person for the first time. I silently prayed that this drama with Loretta wasn't still going on by then. That would certainly put a damper on the holiday cheer.. Before I knew it, I was at the circus. As I dismounted, Zee whinnied and cantered up to me, sniffing at my clothes until she was satisfied that I wasn't an intruder.

(H/n) bickered happily to see his/her friend again and they both trotted off together towards the other end of the field. Before I had time to wonder where Ydris was, I saw him emerge from the little wagon that stood a short distance from the large, purple circus tent. "Zee! Didn't I tell you to be quiet? I'm trying to get my new act together!" He shouted from the door. I could see his tall, slender form silhouetted in the soft, golden light pouring out from the inside of the wagon. He was wearing a rumpled night robe and his hair was messy. I stood there nervously, unsure if I should approach him, or if he would notice me. Without even looking at me, he turned and called for me to come in with him. "Unless you're planning on standing outside all night.." He added, and I could hear the smirk in his voice.