Before the victory banquet, Noelle received a video from her intensive training camp teammates.
On the screen, Alexis led the group in popping champagne. "Captain, congratulations to you for taking the championship at the International Grand Prix!"
It might have been just a single race, but who could say it didn't count as a championship?
A smile tugged at Noelle's lips.
Alexis grinned at the camera. "Ms. Mentor, even though you've won a title now and can't come back to intensive training camp just yet, don't worry. I'll keep these slackers in line. You wouldn't believe how lazy they've been without you. Jayden's ranking even dropped several spots—"
"Alexis!" Jayden shoved forward, cheeks puffed out. "Captain, don't listen to her nonsense! I only slipped because I caught a cold. When I’m in good shape, my ranking never falls!"
Jenna smirked. "Jayden, you were sneaking peeks at streamers during training. We all saw it. Don't think you can fool Noelle."
Jayden turned scarlet. "I-I…"
"Alright, enough. We finally get to send Noelle a video, and you want her to worry about us?" Felix laughed. "Noelle, congratulations on bringing glory to the country. Previously, our team had never broken into the top ten. By the end of the global race, who knows? Maybe we'll even be number one!"
The group broke into bright smiles. "Congratulations, Captain!"
Noelle finished the video with warmth in her eyes and typed back in the group chat. "Thank you all."
She had only spent a little over two months at the intensive training camp, but her teammates felt like her anchor, fueling her with strength.
At that moment, a warm arm wrapped around her from behind. The man rested his chin on her shoulder, his lips so close they almost brushed against her cheek. "Congratulations, my queen."
Hunter held her tight and opened his palm. "This is for you."
In his palm rested a delicate jewelry box. When Noelle opened it, inside lay a pair of dazzling diamond studs—perfectly matching her bold and striking style.
Noelle was a little surprised. She had thought he might have prepared a ring. But then again, she figured he wouldn't choose this moment to bring one out.
"Thank you. They're beautiful." She leaned in and kissed his lips lightly. "Will you put them on me?"
The diamond studs looked exceptionally expensive—the clarity and brilliance of the stones alone were enough to take one's breath away.
Just as his hands slipped beneath the hem of her shirt, a sharp knock rattled the door.
"Ms. Quinn," a staff member called politely from outside. "The banquet is about to begin. Coach Landaal asked me to check if you're ready. All the guests have arrived."
Hunter's body burned against hers, tense and motionless, like a lion holding itself back—poised, restrained, yet ready to pounce at any moment.
Noelle ran her hand over his tense muscles, the corner of her lips curling into a teasing smile. "I'll be ready soon. Give me a few minutes."
Then she looked up at him, her fingers tracing lazy circles across his chest through the fabric. With a playful glint in her eyes, she murmured, "Junior, can't hold it in anymore?"
His gaze darkened dangerously.
She nipped at his jaw before pushing him away. "I'll head down first. You… Take a moment to cool off."
After all, he was far too worked up to face anyone.
Hunter's ears burned red as he drew in a ragged breath. The moment she left, he stormed into the bathroom.

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