Chapter 22

Nick and Jackie laughed as they walked back into the cabin. They skied most of the evening. Jackie found the experience exhilarating – freeing. It took two hours for her to get the hang of it on the beginner slopes. Nick convinced Jackie she was ready to upgrade to a bigger run.

They took off their gear at the door.

“You were great out there,” Nick said as he put his scarf on the hanger.

“I was trying to keep up with you,” Jackie said breathlessly. “That was fun.”

“I’m going to start a fire,” he said and brushed the back of his hand on her cold cheek.

Nick got a fire started as Jackie struggled to take her ski boots off.

“Need some help?” he asked with a smirk.

She took a deep breath. “Yes,” she admitted.

“Lean back,” he said.

Jackie lay down on the couch. She put her foot in the air for him. “I can’t feel my feet. Maybe that’s why I’m having so much trouble.”

“Brace yourself,” Nick said and took hold of the boot.

They struggled, but Nick got it off. Once he did, he lifted both her fe