I’m about to race a reindeer.
Tre: Is this a euphemism?
Brynn: None of us want to hear about your sex life Carter.
I chuckle and take a selfie.
Brynn: Wow. Vermont’s been rough on you.
Tre: Have you considered shaving?
Mom: I’m afraid to ask, but you mean this literally, don’t you?
Sure do. Just think, you’ll be able to brag to your friends that your middle child is this year’s winner of the reindeer race.
Dad: Good luck. Don’t get hurt, or you’re getting a lump of coal in your stocking, because I’ll have to listen to your mother worry until she sets eyes on you when you get here on Christmas Eve.
I chuckle at my dad’s comment and notice Ashley approaching, so I slide my phone back in my pocket. When it vibrates a second later, I know it’s likely my mom, not impressed by my dad’s comment.
Ashley hands me a racing bib. “Are you sure about this?”
The line between her brows tells me that Ashley is concerned for me, which is… surprising. And progress, I guess. When I first arrived, I’m pretty sure she wanted to neuter me.
“It’s worth a shot. I feel bad that Nick won’t be able to participate. At least if I win, I can give him the ten thousand dollars, and he’ll be able to fix up his place.”
She studies me, tilting her head.
“What?” I shift in place. I don’t usually get uncomfortable with anyone’s attention being on me, but the way Ashley is looking at me feels different.
“It really hasn’t even dawned on you to keep the money for yourself if you win, has it?”
My forehead wrinkles. “Why would it? I wouldn’t be doing this if it weren’t to win the money for Nick.”
She studies me again, and I’m pretty sure she’s shocked. I’m slightly insulted that she thinks I’d actually keep the money. What kind of person does she think I am?
I don’t have time to think about Ashley’s assumptions about my character because a voice comes over the loudspeaker, instructing all the racers to go to the setup area.
“Well, good luck, Santa. Stay safe.” Ashley pats the fake belly jutting out of my abdomen.
“Thanks.” I pull the racing bib over my head, and Ashley helps me tie it up because it’s not easy for me to move while wearing this big belly and Santa costume. I can’t even reach my sides.
With her nearness, the scent of her perfume wafts over to me. It’s woodsy with a hint of something that reminds me of cranberries. Feminine with a definite winter undertone.
What the hell? Why am I thinking about the smell of her perfume like that?
“You’re good to go.” She steps back.
I nod then head over to where the other racers are setting up. As I put on my ski boots, I try to remember everything Nick told me.
Bend forward at the hip.
Butt out behind you.
Center your weight.
Head level with the reindeer’s back.
Knees close together.
