Ride With Me (Paige and Jace) novel Chapter 148

CHAPTER 91-2

“How long did it take?” He asked.

“Several months.” I said and he nodded.

“You did the work yourself?” He asked.

“Most of it.” I said and he smiled.

“Excellent.” He said.

When they finally walked away, I exhaled and Mia laughed.

“You looked terrified.” She said.

“I was.” I said.

“I don’t think they saw it.” She said.

“Good.” I said.

The awards ceremony began just before sunset. Hundreds of people gathered near the main stage while the judges prepared the trophies.

I stood beside Jace and he slipped his hand into mine.

“Whatever happens, you did a great job.” He said and I smiled.

“I know.” I said.

The announcer started calling out awards.

Best Custom. Best Paint. Best Engine. Best Vintage.

I listened while trying not to think about my own category. Then the announcer lifted another envelope.

“And the winner of Best Restoration is…” He began and I held my breath.

“The Lawson Customs restoration.” He announced.

For a second, I didn’t move. Mia grabbed my arm.

“Paige!” She said and I looked at her.

“That’s you!” She added.

The crowd applauded and Jace smiled as I walked toward the stage.

My hands were shaking when the trophy was placed into them.

I looked down at it. Best Restoration and my eyes immediately filled with tears.

The announcer handed me the microphone.

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“Would you like to say a few words?” He asked and I nodded.

I’d like to dedicate this award to my uncle, Will.” I said and the crowd became quiet.

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“He taught me everything know about motorcycles and he taught me that restoring something isn’t just about making it look new again.” I continued.

“It’s about remembering why it mattered in the first place.” I said as I looked toward the motorcycle.

“That bike belonged to him and every hour I spent working on it reminded me of the person who taught me how to love this work. So this award belongs to him.” I said.

The crowd applauded again and I stepped away from the microphone. Jace was waiting for me when I returned and he wrapped his arms around me.

“I’m proud of you.” He said as I smiled against his chest.

“Thank you.” I said.

“You deserved it.” He said and I looked at the trophy.

“I wish Uncle Will could have seen this.” He said.

“He would have.” Jace said as I looked up at him.

“You think so?” I asked.

“I know so.” He said.

The rest of the evening passed quickly. We took photographs, spoke with other riders, and accepted congratulations from people who had admired the motorcycle throughout the day.

By the time we returned to the hotel, I was exhausted.

I placed the trophy carefully on the dresser beside the bed as Jace watched me.

“You’re really happy.” He said.

“I am.” I said.

“I haven’t seen you smile like this in a while.” He said and I looked at him.

“Today was perfect.” I said and he kissed my forehead.

“Good.” He said.

I changed into comfortable clothes, washed my face, brushed my teeth and climbed into bed.

For once, I fell asleep without worrying about what tomorrow might bring.

When I woke the next morning, sunlight was already coming through the curtains. Jace was still asleep beside me and I smiled, climbed out of bed, and walked toward the dresser.

Then I stopped. The trophy wasn’t there. I stared at the empty space and my heart began pounding.

I checked the floor. Nothing. I checked the bedside table. Nothing.

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searched the room again, although already knew what I was going to find.

Jace.” I said and he woke immediately.

“What?” He asked.

“The trophy.” I said as he sat up.

“What about it?” He asked.

“It’s gone.” I said.

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