Page 106 of Riding the Curve

We all know that there’s a chance that I may not even get the job, but the chance that I might is what has everyone on edge, including me. Looking away from the mirror, I’m met with Emerson’s concerned gaze.

“Honestly, I’m starting to question if I’m making the right decision.” I look out the open window, hanging my arm out to feel the breeze.

“I can turn this car around, Hen. You just say the words, and I will. I want you to do whatever makes you happy.” His fingers interlock with mine, and he brings my hand up to his lips. The tenderness of it makes the growing nerves begin to wane.

“You were right,” I say, watching his brow lift. “Being the head chef of my own restaurant has always been my dream. If I don’t go, I think I’ll forever wonder what could have happened.”

Em hums silently. His thumb slowly strokes the side of my hand. “You owe it to yourself to give it a try. And no matter what happens, know that I’ll be here supporting you every step of the way.”

Letting out a heavy sigh, I squeeze his palm, bringing a smile to my face. “Thank you for making a sacrifice for me. I know if I get this job, moving to New York will not exactly be ideal for your racing career. And I know we might be apart more than we are together, for a while.”

“Nothing with you is ever a sacrifice, baby. I would move to Antarctica and live in an igloo if that is where you wanted to be. I’ve spent too many years without you in my life. Now that I finally have you, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you in it.”

Warmth spreads through my cheeks and down my entire body.

Emerson is my light, my own personal ray of sunshine, lending me his brilliant rays whenever I need them most. “I love you.”

“Love you, too.”

“Are you nervous about going back?”

Em releases my hand, taking off his ball cap and setting it in his lap. He runs his fingers through his thick locks. “A little bit.”

Placing his cap back on, he shifts gears as we merge onto the highway. “Racing has always given me that rush that I enjoy. The thrill that pulled me out of my thoughts whenever the emotions got too rough. But I’m a little nervous about being away from it for so long that I’m not even sure if I’ll make the qualifiers.”

“You’ve been at the track almost every day. I promise, you’ll be alright, babe. I’ve never seen someone more focused and dedicated than you are.”

As he changes lanes, I see a smile twitch against his lips.

“There is just so much riding on this race. If I win, Beau said the board will move me up to drive the prototypes. I’ve been striving toward that opportunity my entire career.” He sighs, his head dipping slightly before he brings it back up to focus on the road. “I just don’t want to mess it up again.”

“You won’t,” I say firmly, leaning across the center console and pressing a kiss to his cheek. “Plus, your Dad and I will be there to cheer you on. You can consider us your good luck charms.”

“Oh, I almost forgot. Open your palm.” He reaches into his back pocket and pulls out something rectangular and places it in my hand. My heart twinges at the sight. “Got you some gum. Figured you might not want to end up on the side of the highway again.”

I bite my lip, trying to contain my emotions as I open the pack and take out two pieces of gum. Unraveling one and popping it in my mouth, I offer the other to Em. “Want one?”

“Of course.” Slowly lifting it to his lips, he places it on his tongue. It may just be my very active imagination, but I swear a growl rumble deep in his chest.

“Cinnamon . . . my favorite.”

When he tosses me that damn sexy smirk, I almost combust in the seat.

I spend the rest of the drive trying to calm my ravenous lady bits.

“Final boarding call for Flight 333 to Queens, New York. Please make your way to the terminal.”

Déjà vu thrums through me as I stand.

Just a few months ago, I was sitting in an airport, watching my entire world crash around me. Only to board the plane and run into the one man that would help me put it all back together again.

Emerson slides my backpack carefully over my shoulders, then chuckles when he notices my carry-on. “Upgraded, I see? Don’t know how I missed it until just now.”

“Oh yeah. I may be sentimental, but that demon spawn suitcase had to go.”

Laughter vibrates his entire body as he wraps his arms around me, holding me tight.

“I’ll see you soon.” Pressing a kiss into the top of my head, he leans back and cups the side of my cheek. “Everything will be okay, I promise.”