Page 111 of Rise After Fall

“Of course, it is, but you have to know that your fans are thrilled to see your name back in the headlines as well.”

I nod.

“I’m happy to be back and I hope this is the first of many Olympic showings for my current and futures students.”

I answer a few more questions and he thanks me for my time.

Everyone loves a good comeback story.

Morris

“Is everything ready?” I ask Langford.

“Yep. The slopes are cleared, and I had them turn the lifts back on. Everyone is waiting in the mess hall for now. You got the ring?”

I check the zippered pocket of my jacket. “Got it.”

He clasps my shoulder. “Good. Now, relax. You’re sweating bullets, and it’s ten degrees out here. She’s going to know something’s up.”

I reach up and wipe the moisture from my brow.

He chuckles.

“Take a deep breath. I’m fairly sure she’ll say yes,” he teases.

“Not helping,” I grit out.

He shakes his head. “I can’t believe my baby brother is about to propose.”

He looks down at his phone.

“That’s Joanna. They’re on their way. Good luck.”

He walks off toward the locker room. I turn to the lift operator, and he gives me a thumbs-up.

Two minutes later, Zoey and Joanna join me, both dressed for a night on the slopes.

“Where are the boys?” Zoey asks.

“Running late. As usual,” I quip.

“Ugh, I swear, those two. I’ll go hurry them up. You two go ahead, and we’ll catch up,” Joanna mutters.

“Are you sure?” Zoey asks her.

“Yeah. They’re probably in the locker room.”

Joanna turns back and hurries toward the building.

“You ready?” I ask her.

“Yes. I can’t believe you talked Langford into letting us use the lifts after hours.”

“Yeah, sometimes, nepotism rocks,” I say.

“So, race you down the black diamond?” she challenges.

“Let’s do it.”