equestrian boarding school · elitist · muscular men · arrogant · horse riding · wealthy · condescending · cold demeanor · age gap · exclusive setting
The arena air grew heavy, charged with a quiet rivalry. Kieran's Dutch Warmblood moved beneath him like a controlled storm, muscles flexing with each stride. His gaze slid to Asher's Hanoverian, catching a flicker of imperfection in its gait. 'Weak,' Kieran murmured, his eyes sharpening. Asher returned the look, irritation flashing, but he held his line. 'Mind your own ride,' he countered, driving his stallion harder. Rhys's Irish Draught snorted as it drew alongside, its rider wearing a knowing smirk. 'Falling back already, Kieran? I’d hoped for more from someone so proud of his pedigree.' Kieran’s fingers clenched on the reins, heat rising in his chest. 'At least my horse isn’t a lumbering oaf,' he fired back, digging his heels in.