A year later
It felt symbolic to win in Jerez—Dad’s favorite track. As much as I hated tempting fate, I couldn’t help hoping this year the championship title would be mine.
And the girl smiling at me outside my motorhome, standing with Ale, Dawson, and Grandma, was the one who made it possible.
She believed in me when I didn’t, and she endured my packed schedule without complaint. She wanted me to chase my dreams. The truth was, I’d already caught them—because I had her. But the title would be mythank-youto Dad.
I pushed through the throng of fans, shaking hands and accepting congratulations until I finally reached her.
“Estoy orgullosa de ti,” Kaia whispered in my ear. She wore a red mini dress with the number eighty andWilliamsprinted on the back.
Thank God I hadn’t seen it while racing. I needed a win, not to highside because of how hot she looked.
I slid a hand into her wavy hair and kissed her once. Then again. Until Ale clapped and whistled. “Get a room, or get married, mi niño.”
“That’s what we’re hoping for,” Grandma said with a broad grin. “I want to organize a wedding. A huge party on the beach, and—”
“Maricarmen.” Kaia giggled, glancing at me. “Stop. Look at how pale he is. You scared him!”
Grandma shrugged. “A woman’s gotta do what she’s gotta do. It’s been forever since we had a party here. Tell me I’m wrong, Ale.”
He smirked. “You’re always right.”
“She is, indeed,” Dawson added, like there was any chance he’d disagree. He and Grandma were still in their honeymoon phase, even though they’d chosen not to marry. He worked as a mechanic in Jerez, and she’d retire next year. After so much heartache, life was finally good to them both.
“Well.” I took Kaia’s hand in mine, warm and certain. “Thank you for coming, but Kaia and I have somewhere to be.”
“Do we?” she asked, curious.
I squeezed her hand. “Yes. See you later, everyone.”
As soon as we slid into my car, Kaia threw her arms around my neck. “God, you were incredible out there. Poor Roy. You’re getting faster and faster.”
“Must be all the training,” I murmured into her hair. “And knowing you’re watching me.”
“Always. Do you like my dress?” Mischief danced in her eyes.
I let my hand trail to her thigh. “Your dress is a safety hazard, peque. I’m surprised they let you anywhere near the track.”
“And I’m surprised you don’t want to tell me what plans we have. Are we meeting Rys for dinner today?”
I nipped at her neck. “Tomorrow.”
Rys, Kaia, and I had a reservation at the best restaurant in the area.
“Then wha—”
I silenced her with a kiss, then started the car. During the drive, Kaia kept flicking glances between me and the road. I purposely took a way she didn’t know, but soon the beach came into view.
“Knew it.” She smiled. “I wish I’d brought a swimsuit.”
After I parked, we walked down the wooden walkway to the sand. Kaia dipped her toes into it, grinning. “Please tell me we’re coming back tomorrow so I can swim.”
“I’ve got a few days off.” I laced our fingers, steering her away from a group of guys playing volleyball. The place wasn’t as deserted as it had been last December, but still far from crowded.
We kept walking until Kaia slowed, her gaze fixed on the house she’d noticed last year.
“Wow,” she whispered. “They finished it. Look how beautiful it is. It even has a pool.”