Page 211 of Beautiful Collide

“And he didn’t teach you?”

Of course, Hudson wouldn’t understand this. His family practically belongs on the Hallmark channel. Wholesome, caring, and a far cry from how my formerly drunk father was.

“Why would he? Only Dane could go to the NHL.” I don’t finish the thought, but we both know it. That he didn’t teach Dane out of love. He taught him out of greed. Only Dane needed to be the cash cow.

“No fear, Hex. If you suck at skating, that’s cool. Luckily for you, I’ll teach you.”

“Gee, thanks.”

“And the best part . . . you don’t even have to worry about how you’re going to pay me. I’m rich, and I accept other forms of payment.” He waggles his brows at me.

I can’t help but laugh.

If Hudson is good at one thing, he can always lighten the mood. It’s his superpower.

“Ready?” he asks, and I shake my head.

“No.” At least I’m honest.

“Come on, Hex. Don’t be like that. It’s easy. First rule is don’t fall.”

“Wow. That’s some great advice you got there, Wilde,” I say dryly.

He laughs, stepping onto the ice effortlessly beside me. “Have no fear, I’ll help you.” He reaches his hand out to me. I take a deep breath and grasp it.

“Now all you have to do is relax,” Hudson says, his grip firm but gentle. “I’ve got you.”

“Easy for you to say,” I mutter, my eyes glued to my skates. “You aren’t the one who most likely will fall on their face and break their nose.”

“First off, do you think I’d let you break that cute button nose you have?”

“You’re annoying.”

“And you married me.”

“Don’t remind me,” I deadpan.

He chuckles, guiding me slowly onto the rink. “You’re overthinking it. Just let go and trust me.”

Let go. Trust him.Sure.

The words hit harder than they should, stirring something deep in my chest.

Trust isn’t something I give easily.

Especially not after everything I’ve been through. But there’s something about him, something I can’t put my finger on, that makes me want to try.

We start slow.

He pulls me toward him, wrapping his arms around me, and skates for us both.

I’m stiff at first, and every muscle in my body is tense.

Please don’t let me fall.

He won’t.

When has he ever?

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