Sweet Magik by Penny Watson

Author:Penny Watson [Watson, Penny]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Thirteen

"That's it! Just lean back a little bit. Keep your knees bent....you're doing great!"

Oskar shielded his eyes from the sun as he watched Kiana approach the ramp. After only a couple of hours of snow time, she was already practicing on some small jumps. He'd been right about her natural ability on the board. Her surfing background (which she still wasn't admitting to) had served her well. She had an excellent sense of balance, a lot of strength in her lower body and core, and a willingness to push herself which was damned impressive.

He tried to erase the memory of his disturbing dream and focus on Kiana's growing excitement as she learned a new sport. But it was difficult. Getting a glimpse of her childhood and all it entailed—neglect, hunger, bullying—left him sick to his stomach. She and Gabi were enjoying their lessons, which made him feel almost heroic. Both of them deserved some fun. "Okay, don't forget to keep your weight centered over the board."

Kiana nodded as she slid along the ramp. "Got it!" She pushed off the end of the jump, flew a few yards into the air and hollered with glee. Her board hit the ground and she wobbled unsteadily.

"That's it!" Oskar yelled encouragingly.

Her board tilted to one side, and she overcompensated.

Struggling to regain her balance, she pitched forward and landed hard on the snow, spraying ice into the air.

179

Sweet Magik

by Penny Watson

Gabi, who was busy making snow angels next to the ramp, giggled and cheered. "Good job, Kiana. That wipe-out wasn't as bad as the last time!" She waved enthusiastically.

Kiana lifted one arm from her prone position and waved back. "Thanks a lot, honeybee. I think I have a bucket of snow in my pants," she replied. She sat up as Oskar jogged over to help lift her up.

"You almost got it. You just need to keep your weight back and centered over the board."

Kiana laughed. "Well, I seem to have perfected my face plants." She pushed her goggles onto her forehead and sighed. "I am not giving up until I stick that landing! You make it look so easy, Oskar."

"I've been boarding for years. You're being too hard on yourself. For a first timer, you're doing amazing."

"Thanks. I love this! It's so much fun. It reminds me..."

Her voice trailed off and she suddenly became busy brushing snow from her pants.

He stepped closer to her and tipped her chin up with his hand. "Sort of like surfing?"

Her expression grew serious. "Yes. I guess so. It's been a long time..."

"Do you miss it?" Oskar asked, unsure if he should push the conversation.

She nodded. "I do. Sometimes...I actually dream about it."

She looked at him sheepishly. "There's something incredible about surfing when all of the conditions are perfect. The water, the sky...it can be so sublimely beautiful in Oahu. And to harness the power of the sea...it's amazing." She turned 180

Sweet Magik

by Penny Watson

away from him and blinked. "Anyway, that's how surfing felt to me."

Oskar reached out and squeezed her hand.

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