The look on Nathaniel's face was priceless—a mix of disbelief, anger, and concern. His jaw tightened as he pulled me aside, his voice dropping to a harsh whisper.
"You've never ridden before. This is insane."
I squeezed his hand. "I need to do this."
"Need to get yourself killed?" His eyes flashed. "That horse isn't some gentle pony for beginners."
Behind us, Gavin was already strutting around, taking bets from his friends. I caught snippets of their conversation—odds on how quickly I'd fall, whether I'd cry, if Nathaniel would have to carry me out.
"Look at her," someone whispered loudly enough for me to hear. "Does she even know which end of the horse is which?"
Imogen's laugh cut through the air. "My sister has many talents, but none of them are appropriate for polite company."
More laughter. More stares.
I turned back to Nathaniel, keeping my voice steady. "They're all waiting for me to fail. I'm used to that."
