"That's not it…"
Noelle wasn't so narrow-minded.
She explained, "Hunter might be my ex-teammate and also my junior, but we haven't met for six years. It might be awkward between us, so I think it's best for me to change coaches."
Hunter had gone from being a male escort to becoming her coach.
She still needed some time to accept the reality.
Jude chuckled, shaking his head. "You still remember he's your junior, huh? Back then, he got the navigator's license just for you, helping you clinch that world-famous rally championship. Since you retired, he hasn't set foot on the racing track again."
He gave her a knowing look. "Many offered him huge salaries, but he didn't agree. He'd rather remain a coach here than return to racing. He's told me repeatedly that he would only ever be partners with you. Tell me, who else could do that?"
Noelle felt a surge of emotions stirring within her.
Given Hunter's records, had he competed internationally in the racing scene for the past six years, he would've surpassed all his previous records and created a new legend.
Yet just like her, he had chosen to retire.
She wondered if he had retired because of her.
As Noelle said nothing, Jude continued, "In a while, there will be a professional league championship sponsored by a car manufacturer. If you get back into form, you can compete.
"Right now, at this intensive training camp, there are only a handful of racers who stand out, and they might not even make it into the top three. Since you've decided to return, you should give it your all."
His expression turned solemn. "As for changing coaches, I think you shouldn't rush. You haven't seen each other for six years, but you two once worked well together, and he knows you inside out.
"You should trust his professional abilities. You were his senior before, but letting him coach you now isn't something to be embarrassed about."
He patted her shoulder. "If that's all, you can leave now. I've still got work to do."
Noelle felt as though she had made this trip in vain.
She slunk away in dejection. The moment she stepped out, she ran straight into a strong, broad chest.
Noelle raised her head and saw Hunter's icy expression. Her embarrassment deepened.
"Did you talk to Coach Landaal?" he asked.
Noelle sidestepped him. "I'll get back to training now."
At once, Hunter grabbed her wrist and said firmly, "We need to talk."
Noelle was surprised. Could Hunter have sensed her discomfort?
Hunter led her to a secluded area and explained, "Do you feel uncomfortable when I'm around?"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Too Good for You: The Ex-Wife You Lost