Simply the Best Read Online Free Page B

shouted.
    “Yep.” Emma grinned and then turned her attention back to the track. She waved her hands and clapped. Fifteen more laps before the end. If he wasn’t mistaken, her brother was still leading the race. If he won, he’d win not only the race but also a championship—for what, Sam wasn’t sure.
    He didn’t understand the different divisions of racing, but the excitement was unmistakable.
    “You got this one,” Emma screamed. She covered her face with her hands then looked through her fingers. “Come on, buddy. Keep it smooth.”
    Sam chuckled. She looked so sexy when she got nervous. A car zipped in front of Blaine’s black and gold entry. Sam cringed, sure they’d hit. Blaine slid his car through the corner and missed the competitor.
    “Holy shit.” Sam pumped his fist. “Good job.”
    Minutes later, Blaine crossed the finish line first. Emma threw her arms around Sam’s neck and kissed him in front of the crowd. What a great way to cement their standing as a couple. She lagged back when the announcers presented her brother with the gigantic check and shiny trophy. Instead, she congratulated him in the pits.
    “Where’s Mallory?” She hugged her brother.
    “Long story short, she left.” Blaine sighed. “This would be so much sweeter with her. Mom’s in the grandstands if you want to see her.”
    “I’ll say hi. Be nice to Sam.” She turned to Sam. “Don’t maul him. He can be a twit, but he’s my baby brother.” Emma strode away in the direction of the grandstands.
    Blaine waited for her to get out of earshot and then stuck out his hand to Sam. “I’m Blaine and you are the Sam my sister gushed about?”
    “I am.” He nodded and shook hands with Blaine. “I’ve heard a bit about you, too. I don’t know how you sling those cars, but that was frickin ’ awesome.”
    “Thanks. It takes practice.” Blaine folded his arms and widened his stance. His dark hair stuck up at odd angles from the sweat and running his fingers through it. His eyes gleaned. “I love my sister. She’s been through a lot in a short period of time.” He kicked at the mud with the toe of his racing shoe.
    “Spit it out.” Sam stared at him. “Whatever it is, just say it.”
    “Don’t fuck with her, okay?” He looked Sam in the eye. “She’s older than me, but I swear I’ll kick your ass then run you over if you hurt her. Guys think she’s…just don’t screw her over.”
    “Understood.” Sam bit back a smile. Granted Blaine’s threats included illegal actions, but he respected a man protecting his sister. But what did he mean about how guys saw her? He wanted to ask questions, but refrained.
    “Good.” Blaine nodded once then strode to where a reporter waited.
    Emma sidled up beside Sam. “That’s all there is. A win and fireworks. Whatever money he gets goes into the car for the next race.” She wrapped her arms around his bicep. “Did you have fun? Some people don’t like it. Too dirty and noisy.”
    “Honey, I was with you. That’s the best part.” He slipped her hand into his. “Your brother warned he’d do me bodily harm if I broke your heart.”
    “He’s like that.”
    “He said something.” Sam squeezed her fingers. “Why don’t we talk about it in the car?”
    “Sure.” Emma didn’t say anything as she followed him across the grassy field. Most of the traffic migrated to the south end of the field by the exit, leaving his truck in the open.
    Sam dropped the tailgate and patted the metal. “Sit.” She folded her arms and did as he commanded.
    “You don’t have to be scared with me.” He clasped both of her hands in his. “But I keep getting the feeling you’re petrified. I’m sworn to protect the people of Gates Mills, and there’s one in particular I’d lay down my life for.” He’d noticed the scar on her outer wrist earlier. “You rub your arm when you’re upset.”
    “You get right down to the important parts, don’t you?” She didn’t pull away