Chapter Two

 

Parker did her best not to squirm in her seat and to focus as the instructor, Hunter Collier, droned on about bomb safety. The power suit she’d decided to wear today was terribly uncomfortable. She didn’t know how Sam did it every day. She guessed it helped that her big sister looked fabulous in anything she wore. Tennis shoes or four-inch heels, Sam effortlessly glided around like a runway model and could be in a bar fight dressed to the nines. But Parker found the clothing constricting and impractical for running after a perp. She wanted to have free range of motion, that’s why she preferred a pair of jeans, a shirt, and comfortable boots or sneakers. But Regency had a strict dress code policy unless the agent was involved in an undercover assignment. She counted herself lucky Rafe didn’t complain when she did occasional work for them.

She’d tried to keep focused on bomb evacuation protocols, but her thoughts kept drifting to her car dilemma. She’d have to get one soon. When she had the time, she’d go car shopping, hoping to find something reasonable. She’d surfed the Internet looking at cars, but none of them caught her eye. Blue Steel had character. She liked the nostalgic feel it had. Although, Riley did have a hard time fitting comfortably into it. Maybe it was time for a change. At least she didn’t have to argue with Riley about buying her a car. He was giving her some space to get a new vehicle of her own accord. But he did enjoy looking at them online with her. It was sweet of him to hold a memorial for Blue Steel. He’d even had Rusty put a few pieces of the car in a box as souvenirs. She had to keep telling herself that just because the car was gone, that didn’t mean her memories of her dad was going to fade. Keeping busy kept her mind off her car troubles. So she put all her energy into the cases she was working on for Cassie, and also into Wyatt and Avery’s engagement party. She’d sent out the invitations. The party would be taking place at Seth and Morgan’s house on the ranch. Now all she had to do was worry about the party supplies.

She tuned back in to the instructor. Now he was reviewing protocol for suspicious packages. Assess, report, clear the area, and wait for the police and the bomb squad. Blah, blah blah. Yes, it was safe and the right thing to do to ensure the safety of innocent bystanders, but there was more of a rush trying to defuse a bomb, assuming you didn’t blow yourself up trying to deactivate it. When Collier reiterated in a raised voice not to open a package without the benefit of an X-ray and an all clear from a qualified bomb tech, she couldn’t help but notice he was looking at her. Someone must have told him about the time she ran out of that radio station with the bomb when Riley was giving his interview. Her gut instincts had kicked in that day because Riley was in danger. She didn’t regret her actions, even though she’d had to suffer through a long talk with both Rafe and Sam.

Speaking of, where were her guardians? She’d planned on visiting them both today and was shocked they weren’t standing in the doorway peering in on her like— She glanced at the door. Rafe was looking into the room. She waved at him, and he waved back and smiled. Figured he’d be lurking about. Although ever since he’d gotten involved with Leigh, he wasn’t as nearly as surly and tightly wound. She never thought she’d see the day when Rafe wore his heart on his sleeve like some big softie. It was a joy to see.

It also helped that now Riley had gotten in on the act of trying to curb what they called her reckless tendencies. For the most part, he was very accepting of the nature of her private investigator work, but there were the occasional times he’d blow up and chastise her for doing something risky. She knew he cared about her. They loved each other. They’d said the words. They were reaching a turning point in their relationship. She could feel it.

“We’ll take a break for lunch. Be back by one-thirty, and we’ll move into identifying an actual uncovered bomb.” Collier raised an eyebrow.

Parker got her things together as the rest of the class filed out.

Rafe entered the room. “How’s she doing, Hunter?”

“I think I’m boring, Ms. Carson. Everything I’m teaching is counterintuitive to her working style,” Hunter mused. “Would you be interested in helping me with a demonstration this afternoon?”

“Sure, as long as it doesn’t turn into one of those ‘what not to do’ videos,” she replied.

“I’ll do my best.” Hunter laughed and exited the room.

“I was afraid you’d be bored,” Rafe said.

“Who’s bored? I’m learning the correct way to do things, which will help me work with Regency in a more cohesive way and keep Carmichael’s incident percentages down. This agency’s reputation is the best in the world, and I wouldn’t want to do anything intentionally to tarnish that.” She slung her handbag over her shoulder.

“I know you’re putting forth an effort. Look at the get-up you’re wearing.” He held out his arm for her to take. “You must be in hell in those clothes.”

“You have no idea.” She playfully rotated her ankle. The heels were killing her.

“Listen, I’m sorry to hear about Blue Steel. I know how much that car meant to you.”

“Nothing lasts forever.” She shrugged. But that’s not how she felt. “It was my own fault it got wrecked.”

“Listen.” Rafe rubbed the back of his neck. “I don’t condone your tactics, but Blue Steel didn’t die in vain. You caught the guys who stole from Riley and the team. It’s a good thing. Your car went out in a blaze of glory.”

“Thanks for saying that.” She gave him a smile. “Are you joining Sam and me for lunch?”

“No, I have lunch plans with Leigh, but I’ll walk you to Sam’s office.”

“I hear the album is close to completion. Is Leigh still getting butterflies?”

“Some days she’s happy that she’s finally making her dreams come true. Some days she’s terrified her life is going to change drastically if the world likes her music. I don’t know, she used to be so gung-ho about it. Now she’s putting on the brakes.”

She walked in step with him. “I think Leigh found out that she’s already got what makes her happy. A great supportive family and the love of a good man. Before she was looking for a validation to fill in those empty gaps. But she’s grown so much as a person. Being a famous country western singer is now just icing on the cake. Like Tate always says, when those bright stage lights go down and the band stops playing, the key to happiness is what’s waiting for you when you walk off stage.”

“You think so?” He stopped at the elevator, scanned his ID card, and stabbed at the call button.

“Leigh and I have gotten closer hanging out at the Bright Star. It helps that she has someone who’s willing to do whatever it takes to make her happy. You’re on board for the fame train. You’re also on board for a quiet, solid private life. It helps that someone is in your corner. It’s the most amazing feeling in the world.”

The doors opened, and they stepped into the elevator. Rafe scanned his card again then hit the button for the executive floor. Rafe gave her a goofy smile.

“What?”

“Nothing. It’s nice to see you’re so in touch with your feelings. Thank you for welcoming Leigh into the family. You and Sam really made a big effort—the whole family did—to make her feel at home.”

“That’s what we do. Once you’re in our hemisphere, we suck you in, smother you with love and support and never let go.” She smiled. “Are you coming to the Carson family get-together? My mom wants you to bring your homemade barbecue sauce.”

“I RSVP’d. Leigh and I will be there with bells on.” He guided her down the carpeted hallway. “The sauce is already at five flamethrowers on the flavor scale. Another flame and I might get arrested.”

“My mom’s a nut. She likened Bo Sr.’s moonshine to fruit punch.”

“Face it. The Carson women are a rare and interesting breed.” Rafe tapped on Sam’s door, then opened it.

Sam was wrapping up a phone call and waved them in.

Parker looked at Rafe. “Is it possible to change a few classes around?”

“I don’t think it’s going to be a problem. What’s going on?”

“Nothing. I have some things to get done that I’ve been putting off.” She wasn’t ready to tell anyone about the show.

“I don’t think that will be a problem.” Rafe smiled.

Sam stood by her desk with her arms folded across her chest. “I hope one of the things you’ll be catching up on is a visit to our mother. I’m tired of hearing you’re avoiding coming home for a visit.”

“I’m not avoiding. I’m going to the get-together on Saturday.”

They both looked at Rafe, who was laughing.

“What?” Parker looked at him.

“You two could be doppelgangers.”

“I’m going to ignore that you said that,” Parker quipped. She really didn’t see how she and Sam resembled one another.

“OK. I’m off to meet Leigh.” Rafe opened the door. “Text me with the changes you want to make, and I’ll notify the scheduling coordinator.”

“Thanks. You’re the greatest. See you on Saturday.” She turned back to see Sam looking at her.

“You really do look nice in that suit.”

“Are you saying that to hurt me?”

“Yes, I dole out compliments to be mean.”

“You’re only saying that because Rafe said I look like you,” Parker huffed.

“I don’t agree. You’re way shorter than me.” Sam picked up her purse. “Where do you want to eat?”

“I chose last time. It’s your turn.”

“OK. Italian. I’ve had a hankering for chicken parmesan this week.”

“Italian it is.” She looked at Sam. Her big sister should have lit into her by now about the stadium incident. Come to think of it, she hadn’t called her to reprimand her either. She’d sent a text saying she was happy she was OK. “What’s your deal?”

“What do you mean?”

“Go ahead. Get it over with.” She folded her arms across her chest.

“What?”

“I did something reckless. Blah, blah, blah.”

Sam put her hand on Parker’s arm. “I know how much that car meant to you. Dad bought you that car. Fixing it up was a labor of love for the two of you.”

“It wasn’t my intention to wreck the car.” Unexpected tears welled up in her eyes.

“Of course not.” Sam handed her a tissue.

“Well, I don’t have as many memories of Dad as you and Deke and Sol.” She sniffed. “That car was my fondest memory of Dad, and now it’s gone.”

“Hey.” Sam pulled Parker into her arms. “I miss him too. But there are plenty of fond memories of Dad to remember. I think of him every morning when I wake up. Remember how he used to go bellowing through the house in the morning waking everyone up? I still hear him saying ‘rise and shine, Samantha Jane. It’s time to get up and change the world.’”

“He did say that.” Parker dabbed at her eyes. “I wonder what he’d say about me quitting the police force to become a private investigator?”

“He’d be proud of you for going your own way. Just like I’m proud of you.”

“I know it sounds silly to cling to a car, but it’s like a part of my identity.”

“It was a pretty snazzy ride. I’m going to miss the fuzzy dice and that sixties vibe.”

“Fear not, the fuzzy dice and a few things were saved from the wreckage.”

“Then Blue Steel isn’t really gone, now is it?”

She hugged her sister. “Thanks for making me feel better.”

“Not a problem. Know what else will make you feel better?” Sam put her arm around her. “Spaghetti and meatballs.”

“Maybe.”

“Dad would have been proud of you. Getting Riley’s stuff back before those idiots sold it to heaven-knows-who was a good reason.”

“I thought so at the moment.”

“Remember the Carson motto. Duty first, tears later.”

Parker laughed.

“Have you started shopping for a new one yet?”

“Just window shopping so far. I hope you don’t mind me borrowing your spare car from time to time?”

“It’s yours if you want it.”

“Thanks. Right now Riley and I are sharing his car.”

Sam smirked.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“It works out.” Parker shrugged.

Parker did a quick check of her reflection in a passing mirror as she continued down the hall with Sam. It felt good to get that pent-up stuff out. She now knew she wasn’t really mourning the car, it was about missing her dad. Blue Steel may have been the biggest reminder of him, but she had other things that belonged to him that could give her the same sentimental feeling. And her brothers looked just like him. She could see it each time she saw them.

She looked at her sister and smiled. They did have a strong resemblance to each other. She’d hated being told that when they were younger, but lately she’d been thinking it wasn’t the worst thing in the world. They may not have been lovey-dovey-type sisters, but there were times when only Sam’s soothing words could comfort her. After all, she’d been a daddy’s girl too. And being Deacon Carson’s baby girl would always be one of the most cherished memories of her life.

 

* * *

 

Riley sank down into the bucket seat of the Corvette and caressed the gear shift. He loved fast cars with big engines and sleek designs. The new-leather smell coupled with the fancy tech dashboard display screamed raw power and speed. As soon as he walked into the dealership with Wyatt and saw the car in the middle of the room, he knew it would be the perfect car for Parker. He didn’t mind driving her around, but it was only a matter of time before she’d get frustrated about it.

“Do you think it’s possible to live in a car? Because I could live in this car.” Wyatt caressed the leather armrest.

“That would be a hell of a start to married life.” Riley chuckled. “I don’t think Avery’s going to go for that.”

“It’s impractical, I know, but a man can dream.”

“So you like it?”

“I think I’ve died and gone to car heaven,” Wyatt said.

“Do you think she’ll like it?” he asked Wyatt. “She did visit the website but complained about the price and moved on.”

“She won’t want to at first. You know Parker loved that blue Camaro of hers. She’s had it since high school.”

Tim, the salesman, approached. “How do you like it, champ? I can’t believe I’m going to sell a car to Riley Sloane.”

“What’s the safety rating on this thing?” Huh? Did he just say safety rating? His previous prerequisite for purchasing a car was speed and horsepower.

“Excellent. There’s not a better car to crash in.” The salesman grinned.

Riley and Wyatt looked at each other.

“You sure have a way with words, Tim,” Wyatt said.

“I meant it’s an incredibly safe car. The safety airbag ratings are stellar. You could do movie stunts in this car.”

“Believe me, she’s going to try.” Riley swiped at his jaw. “I want the top-of-the-line model of this car. I want all the bells and whistles.”

“Whatever you want, champ.” Tim beamed. “I’ll throw in two years’ worth of maintenance for free.”

“I appreciate that. You do have this in Electric Blue, right?”

“Yes. Excellent choice.”

“One more thing.” He pulled a piece of paper out of his pocket. “I’ll need these modifications as well.”

The salesman’s eyes widened.

“Is that a problem?”

“No. I’ve just never been asked for such a detailed customization before.”

“How soon can you get this done?”

“These kinds of bells and whistles usually take a little longer, but we can put a rush on it.”

“I want it done right. There’s going to be someone coming from Regency Private Security Group to inspect the additional work once it’s done. If they give the OK, you can deliver the car.”

He’d had a long talk with Rafe about the specs for the car. They both agreed Parker should have additional safety features like bulletproof windows and puncture resistant tires.

“Oh, and I forgot one thing. I’d like to get a vanity plate.” Riley took the piece of paper back, wrote BRUISER on it and gave it back to Tim.

“We’ll get right on it.” The salesman rushed off to his office.

“Damn. You’re not fooling around,” Wyatt said as he got out of the car.

Riley got out too. “Well, with Parker, every extra bit helps.”

“You might want to get a priest to bless the car while you’re at it.”

“Believe me, if I thought it would help, I would.”

He felt good about the car. He just hoped Parker would be receptive about receiving the gift. He hoped a new car would get her mind off her old car as she geared up to compete on the show.

 

* * *

 

The day of the competition, Riley drove her to the studio. He didn’t know if it was the nervousness she felt, but he liked the feel of Parker squeezing his hand. The atmosphere was electric as they stepped into the waiting area for the athletes who would be coming on the show tonight. There were toned bodies everywhere as the athletes checked each other out. From what he’d seen on the show, the perception of friendly competitiveness was just an illusion. He knew what controlled disdain looked like, and there were plenty of those plastic-smiled expressions everywhere. No matter the arena, competition brought out certain characteristics in people, and these people were playing to win.

No matter what the outcome was tonight, he was already proud of Parker. It had been a rigorous two weeks of training for the contest. He liked coaching her. Prepping for the show consisted of binge-watching the show and creating a workout routine that would best benefit the types of obstacles she’d have to face. It made him feel closer to her. They were both fitness nuts, but it was nice to be the coach for a change. She’d cheered him on throughout the football season and been his biggest source of encouragement.

Parker stepped up to the registration table. “Parker Carson.”

“Hi, Parker, I’m Jen. Welcome to the Ultimate Champion universe.” The assistant perused the list, put a check mark on the paper, then handed her a packet. Jen glanced at Riley with a hint of recognition in her eyes but kept talking. “Yes. Here we go. There are a few things in there for you take a look at when you have the time, such as the next steps if you go forward in the competition. There’s also some promotional merchandise in there like a T-shirt, pens, and stuff. I see Jeremy recruited you.”

“Tall guy with muscles who loves to flirt?”

“Flirt?” Riley raised an eyebrow. “Did he flirt with you?”

“No. Bridgette was flirting with him. He was passing out flyers.”

“Don’t pay Jeremy any mind.” Jen waved a hand. “He flirts with every woman within a fifty-mile radius. You’re going to be contender number twenty tonight.”

“So late?” Parker grimaced.

“That’s perfect. It will give you a chance to warm up and get the lay of the land,” Riley said quickly.

“It’s really fast-paced. We have over sixty competitors,” the assistant said in a lower tone. “So being number twenty means you could be up within the first hour.”

“Wow. I didn’t know there were so many contestants.” Riley said.

“The preliminary rounds always have a lot of newcomers for the new season. To be honest, most people wipe out after the second obstacle. A lot of people overestimate the complexity of the course. We get a lot of Monday-morning quarterbacks.” Jen smiled at Riley then got up and rounded the table. “But you’re not one of those. You’re the real deal. Aren’t you?”

There was no point in denying it. “I’m Riley Sloane. Parker’s boyfriend.”

“I knew it!” Jen said excitedly.

Riley put his finger to his lips. “But I’d rather that not get out. Tonight is Parker’s night, and I don’t want to overshadow that.”

She nodded and turned to Parker. “Jeremy said you were something special. He boasted about finding you at the mall that day. And you’re dating Riley Sloane. You’re going to be ratings gold.”

“Like Riley said, let’s keep it quiet,” Parker asserted. “A lot of people took a chance to try out for this on national television. I don’t want any extra attention on me to take away someone’s spotlight.”

“Absolutely,” she gushed. “Parker, since you didn’t return the intro video to us in time, we’ll have to shoot one of you now. I’ll go tell the cameraman.”

Once Jen was out of sight, he moved Parker away from the crowds for one last motivational chat.

“Video?” Parker bit her lip.

“We saw the videos on their website. Remember?”

“Yes.” She rolled her eyes. “I must have blocked it out because I don’t want to do it.”

“Babe?” Riley looked in her eyes, and he could tell when the storm within her began to subside.

“Yes?”

“Remember, you got this.” He caressed her arms. “We both know from watching the show that people expend too much energy showboating. Be mindful of the clock but use safe, even strides. It will help you keep up your energy so you can get to the goal post.”

“I will.”

“If you get nervous, just focus on me. I will be on the sidelines cheering you on.”

She grinned. “Thanks.”

He kissed her. “Good luck, Bruiser.”

 

 

Parker watched as Riley headed toward the bleachers. She’d seen him gear up for a game a thousand times and never fully understood how he dealt with the pressure. She’d credited it to his super healthy ego and athleticism, but now she was beginning to see it was something else. He had great courage and liked to face things head on. It was one of the things she loved about him because it balanced some of her tendencies to hide from things every now and again. Like her car. Riley’s compassion and having a good cry with Sam over her car had helped her move on. But she still wasn’t ready to replace it yet.

She pushed those thoughts away. She looked around at the contestants who were warming up. It was an interesting cast of characters. She’d opted for a comfortable and stylish workout outfit and a tight ponytail for her hair. But there were plenty of women here that opted for the sexy look. But they weren’t the only ones preening. Some of the guys, who’d decided to stand out, had on crazy outfits that weren’t practical for running the course. The show was known for spotlighting unusual people with artistic flair, but this felt more like a high school talent show audition.

“Parker, we’re ready for you,” Jen called out from a tent.

She went inside to find camera equipment and a screen already set up. Someone instructed her to sit on the stool.

“We just need you to give us a one-minute synopsis of who you are and why you want to compete on Ultimate Champion. Here’s the disclaimer we need you to sign in the event that we air it. Let me know when you’re ready.”

She hated cameras. She’d damn near dive under a table whenever someone was trying to photograph her and Riley. Sam wouldn’t have this problem. She always looked stunning when she was photographed. She sat up straight and channeled her sister’s confidence. She speed read the document and scribbled her signature on the paper. “OK. I’m ready.”

“And action.” The cameraman pointed at her.

“Hi, everyone. I’m Parker Carson, a born and bred Texas girl who loves keeping active with activities that stimulate the mind as well as the body. I’m a consultant who loves to be on the go. I want to compete on Ultimate Champion because it’s an awesome, entertaining show that showcases the talents of the everyday person. Everyone can reach their fullest potential if they’re just given the chance.”

“That was fantastic,” the cameraman said.

“Thanks.” She hopped off the stool and walked out of the tent.

“Whew!” someone yelled out.

Parker turned and moved out of the way when one of the contestants decided to do impromptu successive backflips in preparation for his turn. By doing so, she knocked into another woman.

“Sorry,” Parker said. “They should have a call out system for spontaneous acrobatics.”

“I know what you mean,” the woman said. “I almost got hit on the head by the nut in the jeans shorts and firefighter hat jumping off that pole.”

Parker laughed and extended her hand. “Parker.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Melissa. Is this your first time competing at an event like this?”

“Yes.”

“I hear some of these people are semi-pros in different sports. I’m glad I’m not the only newbie.” Melissa looked around.

“Well, I see a few weekend warriors who are in over their heads. A few people who are clearly here on a dare.” Parker discreetly pointed to the people she was talking about. “And then there are the ones that think this will lead to some sort of stardom, regardless of whether they win or not.”

Melissa scrunched her nose. “How do you know that?”

“The weekend warriors are too hyped up. I wouldn’t be surprised if those two guys over there slapped each other before they do the course.” She pointed at two guys who were dressed alike.

“Total workout bros,” Melissa said and motioned her head to a group of guys to their right. “Revenge of the Nerds?”

“Good guess.” Parker nodded. “They have ‘I’ll show the school bully’ written all over their faces.”

“Let’s not forget the glamour queens in full makeup. Sunny asked me to get her a bottled water. I told her I was a contestant too, and she looked at me like I was joking.”

Sunny was another longtime contestant of the show. She never broke any records, but she was someone else who the fans adored.

“I see she wiggled her way into working for the show,” Parker replied. “She has this online backstage streaming show. Notice she only interviews her friends.”

“She never wins, but she always comes back. I think the camera crew has a crush on her. Someone’s always panning to her in the audience, and she’s always in perfect selfie pose mode.” Melissa giggled. “I’m sorry, I must sound like a total bitch.”

“No, it’s therapeutic. Trust me, what they’re saying about us is probably less than flattering. I can see cliques forming as we speak.” The buzzer sounded, which meant it was time for the next contestant. “Why don’t we get closer to the action to see what we’re up against?”

They walked over to the gate where they could see the circle of courses. Contestant number ten got off to a good start but underestimated the jump to the platform and wiped out. Jen was right. She’d be up before she knew it.

A guy dressed in a shiny silver shirt, shorts, and a headband was heading their way.

“Isn’t that Jax Jones?” Melissa murmured.

“Yes. He’s certainly shiny today.”

“He’s always giving plugs to the experimental clothing line he’s been pushing.”

“I don’t see how wearing aluminum shorts can increase your speed.” Parker laughed. “He could use a little more material too. I can see his chestnuts from here.”

Melissa burst out laughing. “It was a shame that technicality cost him the prize money two seasons ago.”

“Yeah, but he keeps trying. They do a whole comeback kid segment on him every season.” Parker looked at him.

“My hubby even bought one of his Get Jaxxed shirts that season.” Melissa laughed. “I heard he had endorsements lined up and was starting his own line of diet products. All he had to do was win.”

She observed him chatting with a group of guys who were obviously fanboys. “Is your husband in the stands waiting to cheer you on?”

“No. We just moved to Texas for his work. He couldn’t get the time off. I thought this would be fun to do while I look for a job.” She sighed. “I saw that hunk of man standing with you at the sign-in table. Is that your husband?”

“No, that’s my—” She started but stumbled. How often did she say “boyfriend” out loud? “That’s my boyfriend Riley.”

Meanwhile, Jax was giving them the once-over as he came closer. He was only a few feet away, but it seemed to take him for forever to get over here. It was almost as if he were walking in slow motion on purpose for dramatic effect. “Hi, ladies. The name’s Jax. Jax Jones.”

“Nice to meet you.” Parker nodded. “I’m Parker—”

“Carson and you’re Melissa Renner,” he interrupted. “It’s my job to know where all the beautiful women are. I scope out all of the new talent.”

“I didn’t know that was part of a contestant’s duties.”

“I’m like one of the staff, I’ve been around so long. Maybe you ladies would like to go for a protein drink after the taping. I could give you tips on how to train properly—that is, if you make it to the next round.”

“My husband is expecting me home,” Melissa said.

“My boyfriend is going to bench press a car after in the parking lot, so I’ll be busy,” Parker said.

Jax blinked. “Well, I have to warm up. See you around.”

The ladies burst out laughing.

“Why do I get the feeling he has a federal boobie inspector badge in his bag?”

“Oh!” a group of people yelled out by the gate as they watched the contestant on the obstacles. Parker and Melissa looked toward the gate’s entrance and saw two of the show’s staff helping the contestant off the course.

“What happened?” Melissa said.

“Looks like someone fell.”

“I’m telling you. Ouch!” The man groaned. “The third step is loose. I barely put my foot on it.”

Parker recognized him from last season. His name was Damon.

“Somebody get a design architect out there to take a look at it!” a show employee yelled. “Let’s take five, everyone.”

“Yikes.” Melissa winced. “They don’t show many pratfalls on television.”

“I guess they think it would discourage people from entering,” Parker replied.

Within a few minutes, the competition was back on.

“Number twenty is up next!” someone called out.

“That’s me,” Parker said.

“Good luck to you. It was nice meeting someone without a chip on her shoulder. It would be nice to see a familiar face if we both make it to the next round.”

“That would be nice.” Parker smiled. “And I’ll cheer you on when you’re up.”

“Thanks.”

Parker stretched her arms as she went over to the starting mark. She’d been so busy talking to Melissa, she’d forgotten to be nervous. It was nice to meet someone down to earth. She searched the crowd and easily found Riley. He was down in front waving at her. She also noticed a few Regency agents in the crowd. Simmons and a new team member, Wentworth, were mixed into the crowd. She should have known Rafe would have someone there.

She heard the timer cueing up and took her position. Remembering what Riley said, she looked over at him. He winked at her and mouthed “You got this.” She closed her eyes for a moment and imagined the two of them working out or going for a run. They had so much fun together. She wanted to channel those feelings into the task at hand. What did she want to accomplish? She didn’t want to wipe out or have an awful run time. She wanted to do her best and not embarrass herself on national television.

There was the ding. She dashed across the first obstacle, kept her footing, and stuck the landing. She then had to jump on a trampoline and jettison to a monkey bar-type contraption and paced herself as she reached for each rung. She successfully swung out to dismount and landed on her feet. She stopped and took a breath. She was doing her best to pace herself, but she’d felt the burn from the monkey bars.

“You can do it, Bruiser!” she heard Riley yelling.

Next she’d have to leapfrog across a labyrinth of slippery pads that would have her crashing into a pool of pink, slimy goo if she slipped. But she made it. Finally, she was on to the final task: the rock wall climb. She scaled the wall and finally reached the summit and grabbed the flag.

She’d done it. She’d completed the course and hadn’t fallen flat on her face. The cheers from Riley and the rest of crowd were intoxicating. She raised her hands in victory and smiled before she started her descent down the stairs built onto the side of the rock wall structure.

“Great performance by first-time contestant Parker Carson!” the host shouted into the microphone. “Parker, would you like to say a few words?”

“It was a good workout,” Parker said.

“Well, you’ve had one of the best times of the evening, and you’re the first woman to complete the course. Looks like you’re advancing to the next round.”

Parker’s eyes widened. “I am? Thanks!”

Parker walked toward her cheering section. Riley hopped the gate and picked her up into his arms and gave her a kiss. “You did it!”

She threw her arms around his neck. “I did well after I heard you screaming my name.”

“I’m going to scream your name later too. But it will just be an audience of two.” He kissed her again.

“I like how you think.” She looked at the board with the remaining contestant names. Melissa was coming up soon. “Do you mind if we wait for someone else to do the course? I kind of made a friend in the waiting area, and her husband can’t be here tonight.”

“Sure.”

Parker clapped and cheered when Melissa got her turn. She was quite an athlete too. It had to be hard being new to the city and having your husband working all the time. She kept watch as Melissa worked her way around the course. She had good instincts. All she needed was a little coaching, and she’d stave off the exhaustion she exhibited when she tried to grab the monkey bars. She and Riley cheered when the host told Melissa she qualified during the post interview. Melissa smiled and came over and gave her a high five when she was finishing speaking.

“Good job, Melissa,” Parker said.

“You, too. You were fantastic. I didn’t come close to your finish time, but I’m happy to be included.”

“You were great,” Riley said.

“This is my boyfriend Riley.” Parker motioned to Riley. “Riley, this is Melissa. She’s new to the area.”

“Welcome to Texas.” Riley smiled.

“Thank you.” Melissa beamed and gave him a once-over. “You and Parker must be workout buddies. I wish my husband would take an interest in something besides work.”

“Find a way to make it fun,” Parker suggested. “Riley and I are competitive by nature, so we’re always running around flexing our muscles.”

“My family is going to flip when they see me on television. But I’d be grateful to get through the next round.”

“It’s simple. You just need to know when to conserve your energy so you can get through the harder obstacles,” Parker said thoughtfully.

“I’ll have to work on that.” Melissa hesitated. “Do you think we could work out together sometime? Just to give me a few more pointers?”

“Sure. Let me get your phone number.”

Parker and Melissa exchanged phone numbers. An assistant from the show appeared and asked to confirm their contact information so they could be included in the e-mail chain for the next event. Parker had to admit it was all rather exciting. Once she was squared away, she was ready to leave. They wished Melissa goodnight and headed for the parking lot.

“I think it’s time to go home.” She let out an exaggerated sigh of relief.

“OK.” Riley slung her bag over his shoulder and scooped her up in his arms.

She let out a yelp. “Riley! I can walk to the car.”

“I know.” He kissed her. “How about a hot bubble bath tonight?”

“Extra bubbles?”

“You know it.” He tightened his grip on her in his arms as he walked toward the car. “When are you going to tell the family?”

“Tell them what?”

“That you’re going to be on national television. Some of them watch the show.”

“Do I have to? They’re going to make a big deal out of it.”

He laughed. “Tell them so they can freak out and celebrate you.”

The night had been a success. It had been fun, and it took her mind off what to do about her car situation. She hadn’t really thought she’d get that far, and now she was advancing in the competition. She wanted to pretend it was no big deal, but deep down inside she wanted to win. After she finished the last course and saw her time, something in her came alive, wanting to take the journey to the finish line. She had a light caseload due to her Regency recertification, and if she stayed in the competition, it would only be six more weeks of her life. And Riley would be there with her. She couldn’t think of a better way for them to get closer. Maybe she could finally figure out what had her chatty, handsome boyfriend so pensive all the time.