Chapter 163: Austin

Austin looked down at his wobbling knees and back up at Ivy. "You think this is a good idea, huh?" he said doubtfully.

It really didn't seem like it to him.

She skated in circles around him, her laughter spilling out. "C'mon, just push forward a little. It's actually easier to stay upright if you're moving. Like a bike, except - "

"Except here, I have thin metal blades between me and death?" he interrupted.

Ivy let out a huge laugh at that one, her cheeks a rosy red color, her eyes sparkling in the dim winter lighting. She was brightening up this dark and dreary winter day just by being her. He wondered if she realized what a gift that was.

"Yeah, death," she said dryly when she finally calmed down enough to speak. "Do you want me to ask the front staff how many have died while ice skating this past year?"

"No, no, I'm willing to participate in this death-defying stunt," he said airily, as if bestowing a great gift upon her. "But only if you'll take my hand and help me."