He was going to sign up for tracking. And every other session I took. And there was nothing I could do about it.
"What about first aid?" Ivy asked. "Tomorrow morning?"
"Thinking about that one too."
"What a coincidence," I said.
"Isn't it?"
Ivy's grin widened. "Okay, this is adorable. Cowboy is absolutely smitten."
"I'm not—" James started.
"You are. It's all over your face." She stood with her tray. "I'm getting more dessert. James, just admit you're signing up for whatever she signs up for. Save everyone time."
She left before either of us could respond.
James looked slightly embarrassed. "She's not wrong."
"I know."
"I'm still going to do it."
"I know that too."
He leaned forward. "Would it help if I promised not to be annoying?"
"You're already annoying."
"Fair." He tilted his head. "You're taking all of them, aren't you? Every survival session?"
"Most."
"Why?"
Because I'm climbing a mountain that kills people. Because there's someone waiting for me. Because I've spent seven years preparing and I'm not stopping now.
"I like being prepared," I said.
"For what?"
I held his gaze. "Something important."
He was quiet. Then: "Okay."
"Okay?"
"You don't have to explain. I'm not asking you to." He exhaled. "I just want to understand you. Even a little."
"Why?"
"Because you're the most interesting person I've ever met." He said it like it was obvious. "And whatever you're preparing for — it matters to you. Which means it matters."
I didn't know what to say.
So I stood, gathering my tray. "Tracking at two. Don't be late."
His smile could have lit the room. "I won't."
