Gifts Read Online Free PDF Page B

to do about him? They'd been skating together for close to a week now and their programs were starting to take shape. They'd even started on their lifts, but there was this nasty little complication of chemistry. They not only had professional chemistry, but also personal chemistry. Dare they mix the two on the ice?
    The pot whistled and she poured the hot water into three mugs. Ingrid always told her it was never wise to become involved with another skater. Emotional attachment often interfered with focus and concentration.
    Famke placed the tea bags into the water and pulled out the honey from a cabinet. Ingrid had done so much for Famke, and she took everything Ingrid said to heart. She tried to live it and apply it to her skating. But hadn't there been pairs skaters who found the balance between skating and pursing a relationship?
    Famke sat at the table and steeped her tea. She couldn't deny where her emotions were driving her – to accept her attraction to Chris and work on building a relationship to him. Lord, the man had it all – he was kind, caring, drop dead gorgeous, plus a great friend. And who could forget – he loved chocolate. Would a personal relationship with him help or hinder their performance on the ice? If it hindered them, she might have to walk away, because she definitely wanted to explore a more intimate relationship with him.
    There was a knock on the door and Famke heard Stephen open it. Chris' voice filled the air and the men joined her in the kitchen.
    "How are you doing?" Chris took the seat across from her.
    "I'm fine now."
    He smiled and began steeping his tea.
    Stephen took a long sip from his mug. "I need to retire soon. Tomorrow promises to be a long day."
    "For us, too. Maks has a grueling practice schedule set between now and the twentieth," said Chris.
    Famke poured some honey into her drink. "Where's the performance for the Federation going to be held?"
    "At our rink. They'll announce the two teams to go to the Olympics on the twenty-third," replied Chris.
    "Just in time for Christmas," said Stephen. "What a gift."
    Chris chuckled. Famke laughed at her brother's astute observation. The Federation's timing was impeccable.
    Stephen went to the sink and cleaned his cup. "Good night."
    "Good night." Famke and Chris said in unison as Stephen departed.
    Chris extended his hand and laced his fingers with Famke's. "How are you holding up?"
    "Okay."
    "Good."
    They sat there in silence for a minute, sipping their tea and holding hands. Famke grew warm all over, thrilled by Chris' quiet support.
    "Well, I should change into my PJ's," said Chris, softly.
    Famke nodded. "So should I."
    Chris placed his cup in the sink and headed toward the bathroom.
    Famke went to her bedroom, her heart beating a rapid tattoo in her chest.
    * * * * *
    Chris sank into the pillows and smiled. The soft, thick blanket warmed him to his bones. Despite his comfort, sleep came and went. As soon as Famke and Stephen closed their doors, he filled their clogs and went back to the couch. About an hour later, he heard Stephen tip-toeing about, filling clogs.
    He must have fallen asleep because the next thing he remembered was catching a whiff of Famke's strawberry shampoo. Opening his eyes, he spied her figure in the shadows, stuffing his shoes.
    "Famke," he whispered.
    She stilled and placed her hand over her chest. "You surprised me."
    "I didn't mean to."
    "Was I that loud?"
    "No, I'm a bit restless."
    "Why? Is the couch uncomfortable?"
    "That's not why." He sat up. "Join me."
    She stood and slowly approached. Chris made room for her. "We should talk."
    "About what?" she asked.
    "Us." His voice was low and husky.
    She swallowed. "Now?"
    He opened his arms. "Let me hold you."
    "Is that wise?"
    "Probably not."
    Famke hesitated, her gaze finding the window. She appeared lost in her thoughts, but after a moment, she slid into his arms, her back against his chest. He wrapped his arms around her waist.
    "I’m attracted to you