Blossom in Winter (Blossom in Winter #1)(92)

I hear only his exhausted breath near the shell of my ear. “Because I love you,” he whispers.





Alex decided it was time to leave the house and get some exercise, but this time on the ski slopes. I haven’t been skiing for quite a while, but I do recall the basics. We rent some gear and hit the smallest and easiest ones first. While I feel like a World Cup champion on the green circle as I master these slopes, Alex acts like he’s on the bunny slopes. “Petra, let’s hit the runs on top. This is just too damned boring!”

But I joyfully protest while going down a short slide. “I love this run! Didn’t fall, not even once!”

“Well, of course. This is just for kids to get started.”

He takes a quick slide down to where I am, in an attempt to convince me further. But once he reaches me, he suddenly becomes mute.





Alexander Van Dieren





Why did we even leave the house? Her mouth can do so many better things than talk about skiing. Before I can press my lips against hers, I remember that Aspen is full of New Yorkers. I have just spotted two hedge fund managers with their kids. Most of my entourage usually come here during this time of year with their families, and mainly to this run to play with their children and teach them some moves before hitting the bigger ones. I take a deep breath and try to calm my starving desire to kiss her. “Let’s hit the big ones now. I’m sure you’ll be alright. If you fall, you know how to stand up.”

Petra rolls her eyes but follows me nonetheless to the cable cars. We take a gondola and go straight to the top. The view from the ride is even more impressive. Looking through the glass window, Petra contemplates with a twinkle in her eye the magnificent mountains surrounding us, the fir trees spread across the slopes, the skiers below looking tiny… She looks back at me. I’m also enjoying the view: her.

I bend my head slightly down and kiss her glossy lips. They taste like I predicted—cherry. My heart pounds faster with every touch—a reminder how blessed I am. We communicate with smiles and a sparkle in our eyes. She nestles her head on my shoulder as we wait to arrive. I smile before kissing her forehead. “Did I tell you how much I love you today?”

She giggles at my question. “At least three times—the first in bed, the second at breakfast, and the third when we left home…”

“Well, you can add a fourth to your list, then.” I kiss her once more. “You have no idea how much I love you, Ms. Van Gatt.”

“I’m getting a slight idea.”

I grin looking at the new run in front. “Here we are. Let’s have some fun.”





Petra Van Gatt





Mr. Van Dieren’s finally in his element, sliding at full speed down the black diamond run. And I’m frightened as hell! My body is paralyzed as I look down to the steep slope. The professional skiers passing by are not helping either. Oh God, I’m gonna crash in the middle! I bet Alex will laugh hard once my butt hits the snow. I feel like I’m seven all over again. Alright, you can do it.

After taking a deep breath, I grab my poles and give a soft push in the snow to start my descent. I control the speed, slowly turn right to avoid some other skiers, and find myself smiling with joy as I overtake Alex, who stopped in the middle to chat with some skiers. Yeah! Who’s the best now? I’m skiing a diamond slope!

As I reach flat ground, I stop and look around quickly. I see a welcoming coffee shop not too far away where all the skiers are heading. Where’s Alex? Of course, he’s still up on the slope chitchatting. I turn and see him waving at his buddies before he finally slides all the way down to where I am.

“Are you alright?” he asks.

“I’m exhausted.” Not really, but I want a break.

“Already? We’ve only been here for half an hour.”

“Can we get some hot chocolate with marshmallows from that coffee shop down there?” I point with my pole.

He rolls his eyes. “Fine, Ms. Van Gatt. Let’s take a break.” I beam triumphantly, and I slide as excited as a kid all the way down to the chalet. We take off our skis and leave them at the entrance with our poles. We remove our snow goggles, gloves, and beanie hats before stepping into the cozy, warm coffee shop. I like this spot, with its wooden interior and fireplace burning. Some kids giggle and run around while their parents are calling and rushing after them…

“Alexander?” While it’s not my name I hear, I look instantly toward the bar, following the sound of the female voice.

“Sophie! Long time no see,” he replies excitedly.

A blonde emerges from behind the counter and happily trots in his direction before hugging him and kissing his cheeks. Sophie seems to be in her late thirties with a lean and fit body and very few wrinkles, probably the manager or owner of the place.

“Indeed! Wow. It’s been so long. What? Ten years, if not more? We’ve got so much to catch up on,” she adds, brushing his arm playfully. “What are you doing after eight p.m.?”

“I appreciate the offer, Sophie, but I’m here with Petra, for her birthday, you know.”

Finally, Sophie looks over slightly. Yes, I’m here! “Oh, your goddaughter, isn’t it?”

We nod.

“I do remember you coming here when you were as big as this.” She holds out a flat hand by her hips. “So, it’s your birthday?” I nod again. “Congratulations! How old are you now?”