Ice & Prejudice

Chapter 60

Ria's POV:

The mall buzzed with the usual weekend energy as Layla and I wandered through the aisles, our arms laden with shopping bags. Ski gear was strewn across the cart between us, and I could barely keep track of what we'd picked out. Layla, on the other hand, was a pro, practically zipping through the store with a checklist in her head.

Nikolai informed me about the traditional annual ski trip the hockey team did every February break. It was just a week, but they still did it yearly. He also told me how girlfriends, close friends, and even siblings or other family members often tagged along. So naturally Layla and I were forced to go. Nik and I have been dating for about a month now, and things were great, so far. He takes me out on a date at least three times a week, but also gives me space when I need it. We sometimes study together, though he often just watches me study, and tries to distract me. Little shit.

Layla was rummaging through a rack of scarves when she looked up with a grin. "Hey, Ria, I need your fashion advice. Should I go with this neon green or the classic blue for the trip?"

I raised an eyebrow, glancing at the bright green monstrosity she was holding. "Are you trying to start a new fashion trend or just hoping to blind the other skiers?"

She laughed, tossing the green scarf back onto the rack. "Okay, fine, classic blue it is. But seriously, you're going to love this trip. It's gonna be so much fun."

"I'm actually looking forward to it," I admitted, finally picking out a warm pair of ski gloves. "Nik's been going on and on about it. I'm kind of excited to see what all the fuss is about."

"Trust me, it's so much fun," Layla said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "And you know what's even better? Jamal's going to be there too."

"Jamal? As in the guy from the Halloween party?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"The very same," Layla replied, her cheeks flushing just a bit. "We've been texting a lot since then. He's funny and sweet and makes me laugh like a total fool."

I grinned at her enthusiasm. "Sounds like you're really into him, huh? Are you hoping something might happen on this trip?"

Layla's face lit up with a mix of excitement and nervousness. "I have a good feeling. We'll be spending more time together, and I think it's going to be great. Nik mentioned Jamal's been looking forward to it too, so..."

"Nice!" I said, nudging her playfully. "You might come back from this trip as a taken woman."

Layla rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. "We'll see. We'll see. I'm just going to enjoy the trip and see where things go. But enough about me. How are things with you and Nik?"

I chuckled, thinking about the romantic gestures Nikolai had been showering me with lately. "Things are going really well. He's been so thoughtful, which is kind of amazing. He rescued a little kitten for me last week. She's our little baby now. Oh, god. You should've seen her little eyes. She's so freaking cute."

Layla grinned, clearly pleased. "He got you a little cat? Nik's really pulling out all the stops. Girl, he is so totally in love with you."

"Yeah, it was really cute," I said, nodding. "And it's nice. He's been so supportive and caring. It's like he's making up for all the times he messed up before."

Layla gave me a sympathetic look. "I know it's been a lot to deal with, but I'm glad you're finding some happiness. You deserve it."

"Thanks, Layla," I said, appreciating her sincerity. "It means a lot to hear that."

Layla's expression shifted to a more playful one. "Oh, and guess what? My mom and Alisha have been asking about you. They're both curious to know how you're doing and how things are with you and Nik."