Trigger warning: sexual assault.
Lorelai might have dwelled longer on the strange intrusion into her thoughts if not for the persistent throbbing in her hip, which had grown nearly unbearable.
Thankfully, Kai brought the horse to a stop and dismounted with ease. Offering her his hand, he gently helped her down, his touch steady but careful as she winced in pain.
With a broad smile, he led her toward the shade of a sprawling apple tree, his gaze flickering to her face every few steps, searching for signs of joy or approval.
What he saw instead unsettled him. Lorelai's pale face was clouded with an expression of discomfort, her delicate brows knitted in frustration. Her vivid green eyes seemed distant, taking little notice of their picturesque surroundings.
