On Thin Icing Read Online Free Page A

narrow road at night. Towering evergreen trees barricade the sun from view. There were no streetlights, cabins, or even signs of movement as we twisted our way up the mountain. Sterling plugged his phone into the car’s sound system and chose a melodic mellow band. It helped relax my nerves.
    “Who is this?” I asked. I appreciate music, but I’m far from a connoisseur. On the ship I used to listen to Carlos’s Latin rhythms. I’d given that up, along with any thoughts of trying to figure out where he and I stood.
    “It’s a band called Orange. They just released this demo. I think it has a good vibe. Listen to the lyrics. It’s really powerful stuff.”
    We listened in silence as I kept my focus on the road. My ears popped as we climbed higher and higher. The landscape transitioned from forest to high grasslands. Open-range cattle farms occupied the space on both sides of the highway. Signs warned of cattle crossing.
    “I like them,” I said to Sterling, pointing at the radio.
    “Yeah, I thought you would.” He caught my eye. I’ve never gotten used to Sterling’s startling blue eyes. They look like bright blue ice, yet are equally warm and welcoming. It’s a unique mix, and just one of the reasons he has a following among Ashland’s teen girl set.
    “How’s your poetry coming?”
    He shrugged. “I don’t know. I’m not sure I have anything to say.”
    “Of course you do. You’re one of the wisest twenty-two-year-olds that I know. Mom calls you an old soul.”
    “I love your mom.” Sterling sighed and looked out the window. He had lost his mom young, and went through a period of turmoil after her death. I didn’t know him then, but I did know what it was like to lose a parent. Sterling and I had bonded over our lingering grief. I was impressed that he’d found a way to overcome his struggle and turn his life around. Especially because he’d done it all on his own.
    “She loves you, too.” I reached over and touched his arm. “Really. She does.”
    “I feel that.” Sterling met my eyes. “I’m really glad things worked out, and you guys took a chance on me.”
    “Me, too.” I returned my gaze forward as we passed snowmobile trails like “Old Baldy.” The higher we climbed, the more snow was piled on the sides of the highway. Fortunately the road was clear. I hoped that didn’t change. Mom told me there were chains in the back of the car, but I had no idea how to put them on and I was pretty sure that Sterling didn’t, either.
    “Have you given any thought to going to Southern Oregon for writing?”
    “I don’t know.” Sterling flipped to the next song on his phone. “I guess I’m good for the short term. I’m grateful I get to do things like this. I really appreciate you giving me a chance.”
    I glanced to my left as an eagle circled above us. “Of course. But don’t sell yourself short. I know how talented you are, and if you decide you want to pursue writing Mom and I will do whatever it takes—write you a letter of recommendation, work around your schedule, whatever.”
    “Thanks.” Sterling smiled. “You’re the best, Jules.”
    There was another subject I wanted to broach with him—Stephanie. Things hadn’t been the same with them since last fall when Stephanie developed a crush on a Pastry Channel chef in town for a baking competition.
    I decided to try a tactic that I’d learned from Mom, and ask a global question. “How’s everything else?” I asked, keeping my eyes on the rearview mirror.
    “Good.” Sterling paused. I thought he was going to open up, but instead he tried the same trick on me. “What about you, Jules?” His voice was sincere.
    “I’m fine.” I probably replied too quickly. “I mean, I’m still adjusting to being home, but for the most part it’s good. Weird sometimes, but good.”
    Sterling paused for a moment. “Do you know anything about the Greek philosopher Heraclitus?”
    “Not at all.” I laughed. “Let me guess, you