Leave the Space

Chapter 5

"What the fuck," I whispered walking up to the start of the ski slopes. "I thought they were talking about grab a tube and go down a bunny slope. What is this, Olympic sledding," I gasped towards Danielle as everything came into view.

A massive lane was illuminated on the ski slope. Lights showing the outline of a perfect track going straight down the side of the mountain.

"They are insane if they think this is sledding," Danielle said beside me thinking the same thing.

"I didn't bring my luge suit," Alice said making me burst out laughing.

"Or a helmet," I slipped in before approaching the group. Matteo was the first to turn to us and walk away from the main group. He welcomed Danielle with a very friendly hug if you asked me.

"Welcome to downhill sledding ladies," he smiled motioning with his arms to this massive hill.

"It's something," Danielle replied. "Do you have a gold medal for me?"

I didn't pay attention to their conversation though. My eyes sorting through a larger group of people than usual. A few women mixed in, and maybe 4 more people we haven't seen at all. Finally my eyes caught hold of Charles who must of noticed me walking up then. He threw a wink my direction and I returned a small wave.

Turning back to Danielle and Matteo, I focused back into their conversation.

"Tell her Palmer, if Danielle rides down with me it'll be plenty safe," Matteo said.

I smiled at them. "I don't know, what did you place in the Olympics," I teased.

Matteo smiled to my comment. "Silver I'll have you know. I only lose to this guy," Matteo said at the same time I felt a hand land on my mid-back.

My head turned to be welcomed by Charles, a pleasant surprise.

"Hi," I squeaked out realizing his presence.

"Glad you could join us," he said with a smile. "And don't let Matteo fool you, he was the defending champion for a long time."

I peaked over to Danielle who was holding onto Matteo's arm but absolutely focused on Charles, her eyes almost wide.

"I'm Charles, nice to meet you," Charles said immediately to Danielle, he seemed timid introducing himself. Matteo patted Danielle on the back almost encouraging her forward.

"Danielle," she practically whispered shaking his hand. "You must be Palmer's friend," she said more relaxed.

Charles smiled to the comment. "Only if she claims it."

"More like stranger in hot tub but there is potential," I replied.

"I'll take it," Charles replied.

"Let me go grab Alice," Danielle said turning and walking to the group that had formed next to us.

"I heard Charles beat me to the invite" Matteo said to me.

"They both counted," I practically hummed out watching Danielle over their shoulders. Thankfully both guys had their back to her. She tugged Alice on the shoulder and Alice turned to her with eyes wide. Danielle nodded and both had smiles form on their face. Alice's hand went to her mouth and Danielle's finger rose to give the quiet motion. I'd have to kill them for that later. I didn't even hear the conversation going on in front of me.

"So you do this yearly," I asked curiously trying to focus elsewhere. It was clear both guys had to adjust the conversation.

Charles looked at me amused. "Every year around the same time."