Episode 2

The cold breeze struck the faces of both women, indicating the nearing winter; soon the snow would fall, it was just a matter of weeks. Autumn causes the leaves to easily detach from the trees. Their brown or maybe yellow scenery, due to the withered leaves, fly through the air, making that day look different from any other. The sound of horses becomes present as both women ride at full speed, aiming with their arrows. The herd accompanies them, running by their sides and others behind them.

Elena has committed herself to taking care of her beloved daughter, as well as her granddaughter Katherine. Five years ago, someone tried to snatch them away, and she would not allow it to happen again. She accompanies Gisela every afternoon, engaging in activities together so that her daughter does not get bored. She does not want her to live in a gilded cage.

"Mama, I'm tired," Gisela says, stopping her mare and catching her breath.

Elena looks at her with a smile, she puts away her tools and says, "Alright, daughter, we will return to the mansion."

Both smile and walk away gracefully.

Gisela feels like her freedom has completely come to an end. All her time is spent in the company of her family and the herd. She knows they do it because they love her and want the best for her. The little Katherine also keeps a watchful eye, but unlike Gisela, Katherine feels comfortable being with her family. Every night, when they are asleep, Gisela silently sneaks out of her room and escapes. She spends two hours on her nightly walks, admiring the moon and cherishing her freedom. Only a she-wolf accompanies her, serving as her accomplice and witness to their actions. The she-wolf always waits for her outside in the same place, and both depart, returning from their stroll as if nothing had happened. At least during the nights, Gisela is free, she thinks.

When they arrive at her mother's mansion, they see everyone in a rush organizing Katherine's birthday party. People go back and forth, carrying boxes. They dismount their horses and walk into the courtyard where the celebration is taking place.

Gisela sees her beloved niece, takes her by the arms, and embraces her tightly.

"Auntie, you arrived!" says the little one, full of excitement.

"I would never miss your birthday. I just went horseback riding with Mama."

The little girl touches Gisela's face and kisses her forehead. Then she looks at Elena and throws herself into her arms.

"Did you miss me too?" Elena asks, holding her granddaughter.

"Of course, Grandma," the little one replies, somewhat sad. She believes that both women will leave and never return.

"Don't be sad. I will always come back and give you lots of kisses all over," Elena responds, kissing her granddaughter, who simply smiles at her affection.

"If you keep kissing her like that, there won't be any kisses left for me," Sebastian comments as he approaches his wife, smiling.

"My grandma will always have plenty of kisses for both of us," Katherine answers. Elena smiles sweetly at her husband and approaches him, leaving Katherine on the ground.

"How was your routine?" Sebastian asks, embracing his wife.

"Same as always," she responds, kissing him gently. Sebastian returns her kisses.

"Mama, Papa," Gisela says, feeling somewhat embarrassed. "Not here, there are kids around."

Both of them smile at Gisela's blushing. They are used to being around so many people that expressing their love is inevitable, and they forget about it.

"Gisela, your mother and I are just enjoying the moment," Sebastian comments.

Gisela rolls her eyes, feeling the need to run away. Five years ago, it was normal for her to see her parents kissing, but now it embarrasses her a bit.

"Come on, Gisela, go inside the mansion and take a bath. There's a party to celebrate," Elena says, separating from her husband and taking her daughter inside.

Katherine goes with her grandfather riding on his back to continue organizing her party. He has no problem carrying his only granddaughter; he has always spoiled her. Today, Katherine turns five years old.

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