Page 31 of Wild Desire

"I hope so," Noelle agreed, but her focus was on her brother.

The gun sounded, and I lifted my head to watch him go through the gates, one after the other. He was going at a faster clip than last time. He gave me the chills as he perfectly executed each one, and when he glided through the finish line, I movedback on the seat as Noelle got off the snowmobile and made her way to her brother. I couldn't get close with the snowmobile, so I hung back, hoping she'd bring Christoper to me.

A few minutes later, Noelle led her brother to me.

I stood and rested a hand on the handlebar since I didn't have crutches out here. I reached my hand out to him. "Congratulations on your win."

"Thanks, Killian. I can't believe you were here to watch my race."

"I wouldn't have missed it. You have impressive talent." That second run was remarkable.

His cheeks were red with the cold and exertion. "I've never skied like that. It was like something came over me."

"You were in the zone. I always compete better when I can get my head in that space."

Christoper's eyes widened. "Yeah. I was completely focused on one gate, then the other."

"I can't wait to get better, then I can go up there with you." I nodded toward the mountain.

His brow furrowed. "You would coach me?"

I nodded. "I can give you some pointers."

"That would be amazing," Christoper sputtered.

I spent most of my time with professionals. I never got the opportunity to see such raw talent at this level. My blood was humming with excitement. "You did great."

"Thanks."

Noelle hugged her brother. "I'm so proud of you."

Christopher squeezed her waist. "Thanks, sis."

I could see the affection between them as they stared at each other. They were close in a way I wasn't with my brothers. I saw them as competition or an annoyance growing up. Not guys I could depend on. It was a nice dynamic, one I wished I had.

I'd been so focused on myself and my success; I hadn't checked in with my family nearly enough. I was missing out on that connection.

"I have to go be with my team."

"Congratulations," I said to him as his mother hugged him.

Noelle focused on me. "How are you feeling?"

"My knee is aching." It was a combination of standing without my crutches and being out in the bitter cold.

"Let's get you home. You're probably due for more meds."

For once, I didn't argue with her. I wanted to get my leg elevated. I sat on the snowmobile, leaving space for her to sit in front of me this time.

"You want me to drive?" Noelle asked as she sat in the space I provided.

"Do you remember how?"

"Of course I do. I've ridden a snowmobile since you left town."

"Just not a snowboard?" I asked her.

Her back was stiff again, and she didn't respond.

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