THIRTY FIVE

NORA

Just as I was about to hit the ice, I felt a pair of strong arms wrap around my waist. I was pulled back to my feet, my thumping heart a living testimony of how scared I was.

I turned to see Jordan's face, and I noticed the glint in his eyes. He wasn't concerned, he was teasing me. I pushed him away, trying to regain my composure.

"Thanks for the assist." I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Anytime." he replied, a grin spreading across his face. I rolled my eyes and turned to skate away, determined to put that moment behind me.

I skated over to where my father was standing, a smile breaking out on my face. He opened his arms and pulled me into a tight hug.

"You did it." he said, pride shining in his eyes.

I smiled up at him, knowing how much this meant to him. I looked over his shoulder, trying to avoid looking at Jordan. The last thing I wanted was to see the smug look on his face so I focused on my father instead.

I headed to the dressing room, eager to get out of my d