Is it possible we still have a chance?
The thrilling exhilaration of it urges me on, and I twist the throttle, pushing myself and my bike to the edge, giving it all I’ve got.
I surge past two of the riders, crossing the finish line in second place.
The crowd surrounds us, and soon I’m standing on the winner's podium, receiving my trophy and ribbon. My winning check is still good money that will take care of my payments to Rock and recoup the losses from the robbery.
The club, along with Lola and the girls, stand clapping for me.
When the ceremony is over, someone with a broadcast microphone steps up to me, wanting a live interview.
“Is it true you’re the daughter of Tommy Laroche, the 2001 Supercross Champion?”
“Yes, he was my father,” I say, staring into the camera.
“I’m sure he’d be so proud of you,” the man says.
“I hope so,” I reply.
“Have you made any sponsorship deals?”
“No, I haven’t.”
“Well, they’re sure to come calling now.”
“Thank you. But I’m not sure I’ll continue in the sport.”
“That would be a shame, Miss Laroche. For you and for the sport. I bet there are a lot of the younger generation of girls who look up to you. Like those right over there.” He motions to a group of young girls waiting for autographs from me.
We finish the interview, and I move to the group, signing their race programs. I squat to give one little girl a hug and see Keno standing with his phone out, taking pictures of us.
My eyes connect with his.
He’s smiling and gives me a wink, then mouths, “I love you, Six.”
I mouth the words back.
And in that moment, anything seems possible.
I move to him, and he envelopes me in a hug. I burst into tears, letting all the pressure release. “I’m so sorry, Sully. I ruined everything.”
“You didn’t ruin anything, babe. You did amazing. You deserved that win.”
I push back, my eyes widening. “Oh my God, Keno. Derek and Remy are here, and they’re going to rob the ticket office.”
“They tried. Lola warned security, and the police took them into custody.”
My body slumps. “Thank God. It’s over, then. Right?”
He cups my face. “They’re going to jail. For now, that’s all you need to know. I don’t want you to worry about them again, understand me, Six?”
I nod, and he drags me against his chest.
Relief floods me.
It’s my safe place—where I always want to be.
I’ve searched and found a home in Durango, but now I know that my real home is wherever this man is. He’s my home, and lucky for me, he comes with a clubhouse full of good brothers who have his back, and women who’ve become my best friends.