The girl was dressed in the pants and shirt she wore when she went riding. “There you are,” she said, sliding into a chair across from Lynnette. “Do you have any plans for today?” Lynnette felt a surge of anticipation. Would she be invited to go riding with the girls? “Nothing definite,” she said. “I thought I’d show you around the barn,” Emily suggested. “You haven’t had a chance to explore it, have you?” Lynnette shook her head, hiding her disappointment. “I can find you some pants so your gown doesn’t get dirty.” Lynnette considered a moment. Would wearing pants increase her chances of getting to ride? But then, what did she care whether she rode or not? Christian would be in the barn. Did she want him to see her in pants like Emily wore? It was daring and exciting and would absolutely horrify Arlen. “That would be great,” she said, tossing aside her napkin. Upstairs, Emily walked into Christian’s room as if it were her own. Lynnette followed hesitantly.
