Page 18 of Rise After Fall

“I guess,” I say.

“He guesses,” Weston says to Corbin.

“I can’t figure her out. She was a nightmare in Colorado, but after I spent some time with her, she doesn’t seem so bad.”

“Women are confusing as hell,” Weston states.

Maxi snickers.

“Hurricanes are named after women for a reason. We can get fired up out of nowhere and make a whole lot of racket, and we can’t be controlled by men.”

“That’s the most accurate description I’ve ever heard,” Weston agrees.

Then, he looks at me. “You’d better watch out, little bro. She might wreck your life.”

“That’d be what Anna did to you,” I say.

“She sure did. And I enjoyed every single minute of it.”

Zoey

“Okay, guys, today, we are going to do some team building on the dry slope. One of the biggest advantages to dry-mat skiing is that it provides a consistent skiing surface that can’t be achieved with natural snow, so I’m a huge fan of using it in the off-season. Think of a golfer using a driving range to hone their skills off the golf course. These mats provide a predictable surface for us to refine our technique and focus on our training goals. This is the time to work on your jumps and tricks because the mats provide a softer landing surface than hard-packed snow. So, you can train more confidently without the fear of serious injury. I want you guys to work together and help each other identify areas where you need to improve. Do you have any questions?”

Several hands go in the air.

“Scooter,” I call.

“Do we use our normal equipment on it?”

“That’s a great question. Yes, you can use your normal equipment, but don’t wear expensive clothing. The surface might be softer than hard-packed snow, but it is artificial turf, and the fibers can be tough on fabrics. I suggest you wear old, comfy jeans and sweatshirts. I’ll be providing extra padded gloves to protect your hands.”

I look around at the hands still in the air. I point to one of the guys in the back.

“Can we snowboard on it too?”

“Yes, you can. Next?”

“Are you going to show us some advanced jumps?” someone yells out.

“Yes. I’ll be out there with you, and I’ll be happy to show you some of my favorites. I had Langford bring in some trampolines as well so we can practice somersaults, skis off and with a spotter.”

“Cool,” Clay shouts.

“Any other questions?” I ask, and no one replies. “Okay then, go get dressed, grab your gear, and meet me at the slope.”

They all excitedly file out, and I head to my office to change and grab my own skis.

The team spent the entire day on the mats, and even though they were apprehensive at first, by the end, they were flying down the slope, attempting expert-level jumps, and helping each other learn new skills.

I return to my cabana, pleased with the day’s results.

After a hot shower, I dress in a loungewear set and pull my hair in a bun. Then, I slip into my UGGs and head out into the chilly night to the mess hall and get into line.

“What’s on today’s menu?” I ask as I make it to the front and grab a tray.

“Beef brisket or smoked chicken with Texas toast, and you can pick two sides between fried okra, mac and cheese, baked beans, or collard greens,” the lady behind the counter informs me.

“Hmm … I’ll have chicken, okra, and baked beans, please.”