Chapter 58: A Puppy
Anna paused at the entrance to the estate garden, drawing in a deep breath of the crisp morning air. The scent of blooming flowers and freshly trimmed hedges filled her lungs, carrying with it a sense of quiet serenity.
Walking through the Stark estate had become a part of her morning routine. After spending so much time confined indoors, she welcomed the chance to stretch her legs and clear her mind.
The structured, almost relentless rhythm of life with Mrs. Garrel had kept her senses constantly engaged, and now, without it, she found herself craving movement, stimulation—something to keep her from growing restless.
As she strolled deeper into the garden, a burst of laughter reached her ears. Curious, she followed the sound, rounding a hedge only to find Gabriel sitting in the grass, surrounded by vibrant flower bushes. A playful puppy clambered over him, its tiny paws pressing eagerly against his back.
Anna’s brows lifted in surprise. A Dalmatian?
"Gabriel!" she called out, her gaze fixed on the energetic pup. "What’s going on?"
"Oh! Good morning, Chloe!" Gabriel greeted her between chuckles, his bright, boyish grin widening as the puppy jumped onto his back again, tail wagging furiously. "I got a puppy!"
His excitement was infectious, and despite her confusion, Anna couldn’t help but smile. Still, she struggled to piece together how this had come about.
"I can see that," she said, crossing her arms with amusement. "But where did you get it?"