Emma

Chapter Two.

When I am perfectly lined up to the target, I aim to it with my bow. When I am ready, I release the arrow and it goes right in the middle of the target.

"Nice one"

I turn to look at Ackley who is standing right behind me.

"I have been practicing"

"For eight years," He adds.

I laugh to his reply.

"It has been almost two weeks since we arrived in Birmingham Ma'am"

"So?"

"You have not visited the city yet"

"I am perfectly aware of that Ackley"

"Are you planning on staying here until you go back to Africa?"

"No. I just have no idea as to what I could do in town"

"Well, there is horse races if you are interested"

"Interested to see horses being used as toys for human pleasure?" I ask while facing Ackley.

"Yes Madam"

I sigh. I always hated those races. Horses are magnificent and smart animals and the way the men uses them is just abominable. I do remember that my father loved those races.

"I assume you already checked when a race is"

"2 pm Madam"

"I should get ready then"

***

"Horrible, isn't it?"

I know that Ackley is amused by my attitude. But, he also knows that I hate those kinds of events and I am the type of woman who speaks up when something bothers her.

"The race has not even started yet Ma'am"

"I know. I was talking about the men"

Again, Ackley laughs due to my behaviour.

"Would you like something to drink?" He asks.

"No thank you. You can go get something to drink if you want"

"I am driving Ma'am"

"And you are the only man on Earth who cares about alcohol and driving"

Then, we decide to take a seat in the private area of a restaurant. I do order a cup of tea and Ackley a coffee.

"Isn't it Mr Shelby over there?"

I turn my head, in direction to the seats Ackley is pointing at, and I do recognize Mr Shelby. He is seated with two other men and the conversation does not seem pleasant.

"It is, yes" I answer.

"He looks like he is fine"

"Let's thank God for that"

I drink a sip of my tea and I am more than happy with its taste. It is really good.

"I could see if there is any dinner in town" Propose Ackley.

"I did not come here to make friends"

"You need to present yourself to the society of this region Madam"

"And even if I say no, you will find dinner for me to attend"

"Of course"

Ackley can be very stubborn sometimes. However, I know he is doing it for me and not to bother me which I appreciate.