CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED – HORSE PLAY

"Now for the most important part," Luca said, positioning himself beside Bella. "Mounting the horse." He demonstrated the proper technique, then stood ready to assist Rebecca. With his support, she managed to hoist herself onto Bella's back, her face flushed with a mix of exertion and triumph. "How does it feel?" Luca asked, his hand resting reassuringly on her knee. Rebecca beamed down at him. "Exhilarating! And a bit scary," she admitted with a nervous laugh. "You're doing great," Luca assured her. "Now, let's go through the basics of controlling your horse." Over the next hour, Luca patiently guided Rebecca through the fundamentals of horseback riding. He taught her how to use the reins, how to sit properly in the saddle, and how to communicate with Bella using gentle leg pressure. Rebecca proved to be a quick study, her initial nervousness giving way to growing confidence. As they set off at a gentle walk across the estate grounds, Luca kept a watchful eye on Rebecca, ready t