She took extra care with her clothing and makeup, laughing because she would probably fall on her ass in the snow and no doubt sweat off most of her foundation. When she entered the lobby, Brandon was standing next to a tall, muscular man whose dark hair was pulled into a braid at his nape. Both men turned at her approach, Brandon with a smile, his companion with an assessing gaze that roamed from her feet and ended on her face. Lucy was used to being sized up by men, but in an overtly sexual way she found easy to ignore. This man’s regard was wary, as if he were deciding whether she was worthy of Brandon’s friendship. “Lucy, come meet the owner of this place and my good friend, Matt Petersohn. I think I mentioned to you we used to compete together.” Lucy smiled and shook Matt’s hand. “You did. It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m afraid I’m new to skiing, so I’m not familiar with any of the sport’s athletes.” “Your newness is why I’m here. Bran mentioned wanting to take you to one of the runs higher on the mountain.
