Wilde Thing

by Jannine Gallant

  Hannah let go of some of the tension holding her nerves taut and exchanged a smile with Tripp. She appreciated Devin’s attempt to lighten the atmosphere and was willing to play along. “You don’t like all the picky wedding details?”

  “I handle the fine points of event planning at the museum when I put together exhibits and arrange shows. I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff. Our wedding is supposed to be fun.” Her eyes sparkled. “Anyway, Ainslee knows what I like, and she enjoys the whole process. I’m happy to relinquish my bride rights to her.”

  Sawyer’s gaze strayed to his fiancée’s face, the love in his eyes clear to see. “As long as we wind up married, I don’t care how it happens.”

  A twinge of jealousy struck Hannah. No man had ever looked at her that way. She cleared her throat. “Having a double wedding with your best friend sounds like a lot of fun.”

  Tripp scooped more chow mein onto his plate. “You and Eden could give it a try, except I’m not sure our little sister will ever find a man to suit her.”

  Devin glanced over at him. “I’m enjoying the group effort, but Hannah might not want to wait for Eden to tie the knot.” She turned to Hannah with a mischievous smile. “I have a feeling you’re the kind of woman who knows exactly what you want. Let me guess.” She raised a hand to tick off points on her fingers. “Sexy.”

  Hannah nodded. “Of course.”

  “Smart.”

  “Definitely. I don’t want my kids to have slow genes.”

  Devin laughed. “How about mature?”

  A sigh slipped out. “I’m afraid so. That’s a tough one to find unless I want to forgo the hot factor.”

  Devin gave Sawyer a lingering glance. “They’re out there. Maybe you aren’t looking in the right places.”

  “You two are hilarious.” Tripp’s brows knit. “Why does everyone think I’m so juvenile?”

  His brother leaned back in his chair. “Because I’ve known you for thirty years.” He wiped his hands on his napkin. “You tend to be adaptable, though, so there might still be hope for you.”

  “Gee, thanks.” Tripp’s scowl deepened. “Okay, I may not have a stellar record of maturity, but that’s only because in the past, I didn’t have a reason.”

  Turning in his seat, his gaze came to rest on Hannah, steady and unblinking. Her heart beat a little faster, and her breath stalled in her chest.

  “Now, I do.”

  “Excuse us.” Giggling erupted.

  The moment was lost. Hannah looked away to check out the two women—more like girls—who’d stopped beside their table. They didn’t look old enough to vote, let alone drink.

  “We were wondering if we could get your autograph, Tripp?” The one doing the talking thrust two paper napkins and a pen toward him.

  “Of course.” He scribbled his name on each napkin then added a tiny stick figure of a skier. His smile flashed. “I hope you’ll both be rooting for me on Saturday.”

  “Oh, we will. Thank you!” After another chorus of giggles, they hurried back to the young men waiting at their table.

  “See, very mature. No boobs involved.”

  Sawyer’s brows shot up. “What?”

  Tripp gave Hannah the same winning smile he’d bestowed on the girls. “Long story.”

  She poked at the food on her plate. “Just curious. Do guys ever approach you for autographs?”

  “Once in a while out on the slopes. Never in restaurants or bars.”

  Sawyer rolled his eyes. “Girls have followed him around ever since he hit puberty. Griff and I could never figure it out.”

  “It’s the lashes.” Devin gave a quick nod. “Definitely the lashes. Am I right, Hannah?”

  She eyed him up and down. “Among other things.”

  His cheeks colored. “What am I supposed to do? Cut off my damn eyelashes? They’d just grow back.”

  “I don’t think it would matter.” Sawyer pushed his plate aside. “You have a special power over women. Thank God Devin is immune.”

  She laid her hand over his and squeezed. “That’s because I met you first.”

  Hannah smiled at the exchange, but at the same time, wished she was immune, too. No such luck.

  “Are we finished here?” Tripp whipped out his wallet. “And I don’t just mean with dinner.”

  Devin pushed back her chair. “All finished. Sorry about the teasing, Tripp. You’re a good sport.” She glanced over at Hannah. “I’m going to the ladies room.”

  “I’ll come with you.”

  As she followed Devin, Hannah smiled at their waitress as they passed her. The large restroom, wallpapered in red and gold, was empty. Hannah stopped at the sink to wash her hands while Devin applied lipstick beside her. Capping the tube, she dropped it into her purse.

  “So, what’s up with you and Tripp? I heard through the family grapevine you two were dating. Then shortly after we arrived, he told Sawyer you were on a break, or something to that effect. Mention was made of a hot tub and a bachelorette party.”

  Hannah rolled her eyes. “That about covers the highlights.”

  “Do you care about him?”

  She gave a quick nod and a wry smile. “More than I should. I didn’t go into our relationship deluding myself about Tripp. He’s sweet and funny and entertaining. He’s also supportive and caring.”

  “But…”

  “He enjoys his lifestyle. What guy wouldn’t?” Hannah wadded a paper towel and tossed it into the trash. “I thought I’d be okay with a temporary romance. I needed to push past my comfort zone and make some changes in my personal life. But I didn’t expect to fall in love with the guy.”

  Devin’s eyes held sympathy. “Is that what happened?”

  “Yes.” A soft sigh slipped out. “I know he has feelings for me. We could probably go along like we have been, seeing each other when our schedules allow and having a great time together. I’m sorely tempted. But at some point in the last few weeks, I realized I’m ready for more than a casual relationship. I’m not sure Tripp can ever provide the stability I need.”

  Devin leaned one hip against the sink and crossed her arms over her chest. “Sawyer and I went through a rough patch last fall. We didn’t think we could work out some major lifestyle differences, but we compromised. I can’t even begin to describe how happy I am we both gave up a little to find common ground.”

  “I’m glad for you, but this is different. I grew up with a mother who was a bit of a narcissist and a total flake—still is. I had several stepfathers, and I craved stability. I’m sure a psychiatrist would have a field day with me, but I can’t change any of that. I can’t help wanting someone who will always put me first.” Her chin dropped, and she picked at a spot on her sleeve. “Believe me, I’ll always give back one hundred and ten percent. A dog could take lessons in loyalty from me.”

  Stepping forward, Devin gave her a swift hug. “Tripp would be damn lucky to have you.” She pulled back to regard her with a slight frown. “You know what? I think he’s aware of that. He might just surprise you if you give him a chance.”

  “I have.” Her voice broke.

  “Well, then, another chance. Sometimes the greatest risks produce the highest rewards.” She offered a smile. “He’s related to Sawyer. That has to say something about him.”

  “Sawyer is a rock. Tripp is…stardust.”

  “I love it.” Devin tucked her arm through Hannah’s and headed them both toward the door. “I still say there’s a rock, or maybe a precious gem, hidden somewhere deep inside Tripp, and you’re the woman who can find it.”

  “I’d love to believe that’s true.”

  “Then harness your inner geologist and start chipping away until you uncover the diamond in the rough.”

  Hannah couldn’t help smiling. Devin’s optimism was infectious. When they left the ladies room, her gaze swept the restaurant to lock with Tripp’s where he waited by the front door. His eyes held a question al
ong with cautious optimism. The man had the ability to melt her heart with a single glance.

  But he also had the power to break it.

  Chapter 21

  Jake’s run must have been epic. Though Tripp hadn’t been able to see the bottom of the hill from his vantage point, the roar from the crowd had told him everything he needed to know. He had his work cut out for him. All the better. He adjusted his goggles with a gloved hand. Nothing that came too easy was worth having.

  Like Hannah. The last couple of days, she’d stuck close when he wasn’t training, and had hung out with Sawyer and Devin when he was. But at the end of the evening, she’d firmly shut the door to her room in his face. He let out a sigh and glanced over at Marco. Bunking with his trainer was getting old.

  Marco broke off his conversation with one of the ski techs to give him a slap on the back. “You’d better start hiking. Laird’s about ready to begin his run, and you’re up after him. How’re you feeling?”

  “Strong.” Tripp rotated his arms then shook them to loosen up. “Ready to put in a solid performance, thanks to you and Hannah.”

  “Great. Go do your thing.”

  He flashed a smile then picked up his skis to rest them on his shoulder as he hiked along the craggy ridge toward the top of the line he’d chosen. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of Laird flying down the slope to hit his first jump with precision. Game on. A minute later, the crowd went wild again.

  Tripp tuned out everything around him, honing his focus on the job ahead. Scrambling across a rock outcropping, he reached his goal at the top of a narrow chute and clicked his boots into his bindings. Pausing, he glanced around at the windblown snow clinging to the granite peaks. Clouds slid across the sky at a fast pace. The windchill sent a shiver through him. No matter. He’d be warm enough once the adrenaline started pumping the second he began his run. Taking a deep breath, he blew it out in a puff of white vapor and tapped his poles together for luck then pushed off.

  He streaked down the hill straight toward a snow-covered shelf that sent him soaring into the thin blue air. Elation filled him as the wind rushed past him. He laid out a double twisting backflip then concentrated on hitting his landing. He stuck it with barely a jolt. Flying down the line, he added an impromptu 360 spin with a tail grab off a hump of snow then gathered speed for his final trick. Tucking low, he gained momentum before reaching the outcropping of rock that shot him airborne into an iron cross with barely enough time to get his skis back under him before he landed. Heart pounding, he careened to a stop just short of the fencing as the crowd of spectators cheered and roared in appreciation.

  With a fist pump, he searched for the one face that mattered most and locked eyes with Hannah. Her glowing smile only increased his euphoria. Snapping out of his skis, he picked them up then pushed through the crowd toward her, nodding but taking little notice of the fans who reached out to touch him and offer congratulations on his run.

  Hannah’s bright smile was all that mattered.

  “That was amazing. For a minute there, I was afraid you wouldn’t have time to land that last trick.”

  “I was a little worried, too.” Stretching out an arm, he pulled her close. “Thanks for being here. Your presence made my day perfect.”

  She tilted her head back. “Don’t you have to wait for the scores to know how perfect it was?”

  “Nope, I accomplished everything that matters. I had a terrific run, and whatever the results, I can celebrate them with you.”

  “What about us?” Sawyer thumped him on the shoulder. “Don’t we count? That was a spectacular run, by the way.”

  “Thanks.” Tripp grinned. “Yeah, you count. It’s always nice to have family at these events. Reminds me of when I was a little kid and the whole Wilde clan came to my competitions to cheer me on.”

  Sawyer slipped his arm around his fiancée. “Griff and I only ever skied for fun, but we still couldn’t believe our little brother was better than us at something.”

  Devin glance between the two men and smiled. “That’s because you’re all super competitive. What about you, Hannah? Were you one of those kids who always had to win?”

  Her smile dimmed somewhat, and she shook her head. “Not really. Sports weren’t my thing. I was the brainy girl, but I didn’t feel the need to prove anything. I was just thankful my test scores were going to guarantee me scholarships for college.”

  “You had your priorities straight from the get-go. Smart woman.”

  “Just a well-honed survival instinct.” She glanced from Devin to Tripp. “Now what?”

  “If my scores put me on the podium, I wait around until the last couple of skiers go.”

  “From what I’ve seen, you should be the point leader. Your buddy Jake had a great run, but you crushed it.” Sawyer turned as the loudspeaker crackled. “Here come your scores.”

  A cheer went up from the crowd as his numbers were posted, and his brother gave him another backslapping hug. “You’re in first. Nice job!”

  “Hey, it isn’t over yet. Two more skiers to go.”

  Normally, he’d be a little nervous as his final competitors completed their runs, but today, nothing could displace the confidence that filled him. Having Hannah beside him, laughing at something Sawyer had said, was all he really cared about.

  As it turned out, neither of the two remaining competitors affected Tripp’s top standing. When they called his name to take his place on the highest step of the podium, he couldn’t stop smiling. Not because of the trophy he held over his head. He’d won countless events in the past, but none had produced the satisfaction of seeing pride light Hannah’s eyes when she met his gaze.

  Convincing her of his integrity would be a hell of a lot harder than landing the double twisting backflip. He hoped he was up for the challenge.

  * * * *

  There was barely room to move through the crowded venue where the post-event party was being held. Running up against the large group surrounding Jake, who’d taken second place honors, Hannah finally gave up trying to reach Tripp. Near the front of the room, he wrapped up a televised interview then signed autographs and interacted with his fans like the experienced celebrity he was. Every once in a while the smile slipped as he scanned the room. Looking for her? He’d said he’d escape the madness as soon as possible, but his sponsors expected him to put on a show. That’s what they paid him for.

  Sidestepping backward toward the door, she slipped out into the lobby and let loose a relieved sigh as cool air circled around her. After the sensory overload in the conference room, fresh air was a blessing. Since Sawyer and Devin had decided to drive back to Denver after the competition, she was tempted to return to her room to wait for Tripp. But maybe a quick walk outside to cool off first was in order.

  Only a couple of people were in the gym when she passed. Weights hit the mat with a thud. The din of voices from the meet and greet faded as she pushed open the door to the pool area and headed out onto the cement apron. A few snowflakes floated through the sky to melt against her hot cheeks. With only a long sweater over her dress, the frigid air refreshed her in a hurry.

  Turning to go back inside, she stopped when the door swung open. A tallish man in his forties stepped out. His blue gaze locked with hers, and recognition flared in their depths. Surely she’d seen him somewhere before, but he was too old to be one of the skiers. When he headed in her direction, lips flattened in a thin line, she stepped back.

  “Hannah?” Marco pushed through the door and detoured around the other man. “Tripp asked me to look for you. He was concerned when you didn’t show up at the party.”

  “I was there for a while, but I couldn’t get near him in that crowd.” Her gaze drifted to the stranger when he brushed past Marco and left. She angled her chin. “Do you know that guy? He looked familiar, but I couldn’t place him.”

  “I don’t think I’ve seen him before. Why?”

  She shrugged. �
��He seemed so…focused. After what happened at the airport, being alone with a strange man scared me a little. I’m glad you came out when you did.”

  Marco stepped closer and tucked her hand through his arm. “Happy to be of service. Let’s go inside. Tripp should be about finished with the meet and greet by now.”

  The crowd in the conference room had thinned, but Tripp was still surrounded by a group of women drinking wine and laughing at something he’d said. When one of them reached up to stroke his cheek, he pushed her hand away. Turning, his gaze collided with Hannah’s. A smile lit his eyes. He made a comment, and a groan went up from the women, but he walked away without looking back.

  “Marco found you,” he called out as he approached.

  Hannah nodded. “I went outside for some air.”

  “I don’t blame you. This place was a scene. Are you ready to go get some dinner?” He offered his trainer a fleeting glance before returning his attention to Hannah. “You’re welcome to join us.”

  Marco shook his head. “I think I’ll pass.” His brown eyes warmed as he smiled at Hannah. “Maybe next time. Are you flying back to Tahoe tomorrow?”

  She nodded. “I need to get home. Actually, we both do. Sheriff Barnes called.”

  Tripp’s brows shot up. “He did?”

  “I talked to him briefly before I came downstairs. He wants to clarify a few points regarding the recent attacks. I got the impression he’s investigating a couple of suspects more thoroughly.” She shrugged. “I’m not sure why he needs to question us in person, but he asked that we let him know as soon as we get back to Tahoe.”

  Marco frowned. “Let’s hope they make an arrest soon.” He gave Tripp a pat on the shoulder as he walked away. “Enjoy your dinner. See you later, roomie.”

  “Idiot,” Tripp grumbled as his trainer strolled out of the room. “He’s enjoying my misery…just so you know.”

  Hannah rolled her eyes. “Aren’t you being a little overly dramatic?”

  “Not in the least.” He took her arm. “Let’s go eat. I’m in the mood for steak, if that works for you.”