Exton

Star was awake early as she usually was. She liked to ride through the woods early in the morning when the world was just waking up. But after the meeting last night she knew Erik would be upset with her if she rode through the forest alone. She slips silently from the bed, leaving Mera tucked in close to Erik. She smiles at the sight and her hand runs over her belly, her thoughts on the baby that would soon join the family. Her gaze moves from the bed to the window, the dark just starting to lift and the shadows fading. She goes to the kitchen, grabs a carrot for her horse and heads to the stable, thinking she could at least brush the horse and spend a little time with her.

When she enters the stables she is greeted with a soft nicker and Star runs her hand over the velvety smooth nose. She lets the horse know she cant ride alone now and Mya flits in and lands on Stars shoulder. Wrapping her arms across Stars cheek she says, “No ride, please. Mya hear scary things now. Star stay here with Mya and horse...”

“I will, I just wanted to let her know...” Stars words trail off as she hears a noise above her head. Looking up she catches a glimpse of Pike who immediately disappears into the rafters.

Looking to Mya she asks, “Pike is here? Has he been staying here?”

Mya nods solemnly, “Wish too...”