Page 72 of Full Throttle 2

“That means, no discussing me with my dad.”

“C’mon, that’s unreasonable. He’s our crew chief.”

“I mean my personal life.”

“Done.”

Brian’s face was determined and resolute. Colby could see he was serious. Sadly, Colby didn’t have to worry about Brian discussing her with Liam.

“However, I will tell you when I think something’s off, and that will blur the lines sometimes.”

Colby looked puzzled. “Like what?”

At first, Brian hesitated, his brow furrowing as he glanced at the ground, his hands stuffed deep into his pockets. But then, with a frustrated sigh, he threw up his hands. “You were too thin,” he said, his voice full of concern. “It wasn’t good for you as a driver, and it wasn’t good for you as a person. We were all worried that something else was going on.” His eyes now reflected a deep worry, revealing how much he cared.

Her chest felt tight, a constricting pressure that mirrored the weight of the constant scrutiny from the press and everyone around her. Colby had made choices she might not have otherwise considered, each decision heavy with the burden of expectation. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, and spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I know. Like a lot of women, I fell into the trap. Never thought that would ever happen to me, but it did.” She paused, her hands fidgeting nervously at her sides. “I wasn’t beinghealthy, and I’m trying to do better.” A flicker of vulnerability crossed her face as she continued. “Believe it or not, I’ve actually put on four pounds since my last race. Lila set me up with a nutritionist friend of hers, and we’ve identified my nutrient deficiencies. I’m eating healthier than I have in years and taking vitamins. It’s helped so much.”

The admission hung in the air, a mix of relief and anxiety washing over her as she braced for the reaction.

Brian smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting genuine admiration for Colby and for Lila taking care of her cousin. “I noticed, and honestly, you look fantastic. If you ever need a reminder that you’re amazing just as you are, just say the word—we’ll be here to tell you every single day. Seriously, you are incredible, and I hope you truly believe that.” His tone was encouraging, aiming to lift her spirits and reinforce her worth.

Colby pressed her lips together, her eyes misting with unshed tears as she fought to hold them back. “Thanks,” she managed to say, her voice trembling slightly.

Brian stepped closer, wrapping her in a warm hug. He could feel the tension in her shoulders ease as he held her tight. “No thanks needed. We’ve got you,” he said softly, pulling back to look her in the eye. “I should get going, though. I have a lot to do before dinner tonight.” He gave her a playful wink. “Make sure you’re there and on time. I have a few surprises in store.”

Brian’s playful tone lightened the moment, and Colby felt a spark of curiosity amid her vulnerability. “Like what?”

He shrugged. “I don’t know, but dress to impress. You never know who might show up on the scene.”

Brian had a mischievous gleam in his eyes. Colby wondered if it was maybe Liam. Even though they were broken up, the mere thought of seeing him again made her heart skip a beat.

Chapter Thirty-Three

“Wow.” Lila was stunned when she entered the private dining room Brian had reserved for Team Lockwood.

It was bathed in soft, ambient lighting. The walls were draped in flowing fabrics of different variations of yellow. Some tables were adorned with elegant artwork that added character and sophistication.

In the center of the room was a large, beautifully set table decorated with a tasteful arrangement of yellow and white roses and flickering candles that created a warm glow.

Soft music played in the background, setting a relaxed vibe for conversations and laughter.

The room was thoughtfully designed to blend comfort and luxury, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable night.

Lila turned around in a circle. “Brian, this is breathtaking.”

He devoured her with his eyes. “I could say the same thing about you.”

Lila blushed as she continued to twirl around in her stunning floor-length emerald green gown that hugged her figure to perfection. She batted her lashes. “Oh, this old thing.”

“As much as I love to see you in it,” Brian murmured, his eyes lingering as he reached out, fingertips grazing the fabric gently, “I’m going to enjoy taking it off even more.”

She smirked, leaning closer as her fingers traced a playful line up his arm. She whispered into his ear, “Can’t wait.”

Brian’s gaze softened as he straightened, tucking a stray strand of Lila’s hair behind her ear. “Until then, I wanted to make tonight special.” He looked around the room with a satisfied grin.

Lila followed his gaze, taking in the candlelit ambiance, the carefully arranged flowers, and the soft music playing in the background. “I think you’ve accomplished that. It really is beautiful in here.”

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