Raffy nodded vigorously, his cheeks flushed from the cool air in the car. "Yeah! I'm not scared!"
They pulled up to the entrance of a luxury ski lodge near the slopes.
The hotel was built like a massive Nordic cabin, its roof buried under a thick layer of snow, radiating a cozy, festive vibe decorated with holiday wreaths and warm lights.
Alexander stepped out first, walking around to the passenger side to open Danielle's door.
He offered her his hand. "Careful. It's icy."
Seeing the warm smile in his eyes, her chest fluttered, and she placed her hand in his.
His grip was strong and steady, effortlessly helping her down from the SUV.
The moment their fingers locked, a silent jolt of electricity passed between them, and they exchanged a knowing smile.
After checking in, the four of them headed up to their suite.
It was a gorgeous two-story loft. The ground floor featured a spacious living room and kitchen, while the two bedrooms upstairs offered a spectacular view directly overlooking the ski runs.
Niki and Raffy were practically buzzing with impatience, dropping their bags and immediately demanding to suit up.
Danielle and Alexander shared an amused look, each taking a kid to get them dressed.
Danielle bundled Niki up in her thick snowsuit, adding a scarf and heavy gloves until the little girl looked like a round, waddling snowman.
"Don't run too fast, or you'll trip," she warned her.
"I know, Mom!" Niki stood on her tiptoes, planting a quick kiss on her cheek before bolting downstairs.
Danielle laughed and shook her head. As she turned around, she found Alexander leaning against the doorframe.
He was already in a sleek navy-blue ski suit that made him look even more broad-shouldered and imposing.
It took Danielle a second to catch her breath.
He walked over, his slightly cool fingers brushing a stray piece of hair from her forehead. "Spacing out?"
Snapping back to reality, she felt her cheeks burn. She gave his chest a light push. "Nothing. Let's go. The kids are waiting."
He let out a low chuckle, catching her hand and lacing his fingers securely through hers. "Together."
Walking down the stairs hand in hand, they found Niki and Raffy pacing the living room.
Seeing them, Niki lunged and hugged Alexander's leg. "Dad, come on! Let's go!"
"Alright." He scooped her up and motioned for Raffy to follow. "Let's hit the slopes."
The ski resort was crowded, echoing with laughter and the sound of carving snow.
The second they stepped onto the powder, both kids shrieked with joy, reaching out to catch the flurry of flakes.
Alexander took them to rent skis and poles, then spent time walking them through the basic stances.
Standing in the snow, he guided Raffy step by step, showing him how to balance and brake, his tone incredibly patient and encouraging.
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