Page 51 of Yours Temporarily

I shiver, probably from the thought of dealing with Sara on such a personal level. “You’re far more patient than I could ever be.”

“Don’t worry about Sonya.” Hope grasps my sleeve, then rubs my arm. “Despite her renewed feelings for Jeremy, he only has eyes for you.”

My thoughts drift to his behavior—to how he seemed unnerved upon seeing Sonya. I bite my lip as our time in the car on the ride here lingers in my mind. “He became so quiet. I’m not even sure if he regrets bringing me along.”

If he wanted to convince his ex that he’s happily moved on, he probably wishes he picked someone sleeker and more sophisticated. I’ve never considered myself self-conscious, but tonight, I felt everything I lack in height and beauty compared to Sonya and Sara.

“Trust me, Sara’s presence can shake anyone’s confidence.”

That I can believe. But am I strong enough to endure it? Is he?

Later, curled up in bed, I reach for my phone. There’s a group text from my friends. They want an update on my trip.

Flopping on my stomach, I shift to the edge of the bed and thrust my phone closer to the bedside light as I respond.

Zuri: Jeremy’s mom is out-of-this-world intense. I’ll need all the prayers.

I put the phone on the nightstand, but before I slide it out of my hand, it beeps.

Lexi: Show them the fire, the real you.

Olivia: Why would she be intense when you and Jeremy are literally not even pretending to be in love?

I chuckle. Then type.

Zuri: Maybe that’s what scares his mom. She wants Jeremy with the other woman.

Olivia: Lucky for you, you’re not the other woman for Jeremy.

Lexi: When are you going to see the family next?

Zuri: Headed skiing tomorrow. Two nights in a cabin with Jeremy’s mom and an ex.

Lexi: Don’t forget to take some pictures of the snow.

Olivia: Don’t let anyone intimidate you. You’re beautiful, confident, and you are you.

I smile. It’s so typical of Olivia with her sweet and tender caring nature.

Zuri: Thanks, girls. I’ll call you when I get there tomorrow. On the bright side, Jeremy’s brother and fiancée are so sweet, and they’ll be there too.

Lexi: That’s all you need on your side.

Olivia: Stand strong.

Their words comfort me, a reminder of the strength and support I have, regardless of the challenges Sara or the upcoming ski trip might present. With my heart lighter, I text my promise to call them tomorrow. Surely, the events and view will be worth facing his family dynamics.

CHAPTER 19

Zuri

With the ski poles in my gloved hands, my heart pounds against my ribs as I walk sideways on a beginner slope. A giant mountain stretches before me, snow gleaming under the afternoon sun. Despite the layers of warmth I’ve cocooned myself in—snow pants, heated gloves, a thick coat, an insulated neck warmer, and a snug helmet—yet the cold still finds its way across my skin.

I don’t need to glance over my shoulder and past several heads and vibrant coats to sense Jeremy’s presence. He’s there, waiting and looking at me as long as Sonya hasn’t made it back down the steep slope to talk his ear off.

“Now move the right ski and the right pole,” my instructor, Lena, says from the side, her voice soothing my mounting anxiety. “And the left ski to the left pole and slowly move uphill.”

I move sideways, using the technique I’ve worked on during our time on the small hill. I’m so not athletic, and only Popsicles should be frozen while holding onto sticks. But while I’d rather be steaming myself over a hot oven, I’m not going to let this mountain best me.

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