Chapter Ten

DAKODA

The following morning arrives quickly, and before I realize it, the guys and I are at the beach for the surfing games. My stomach is filled with nerves, and Korey leans in, planting a kiss on my cheek.

"Relax, D, you're going to do great," he reassures me.

I playfully slap his shoulder. "Don't jinx me, Korey."

He chuckles. "Sorry, didn't know you were superstitious."

"I'm not about most things, but I really want this and I'm nervous."

As we wait in line to register, I hear her annoying voice.

"What is she doing here?" she asks Korey.

"What does it look like?" he responds to Harlan.

"She'll never beat me, so she might as well give up now," she taunts.

"You're talking a lot of smack for someone who only scored a 5," I retort, then turn to get my number and write my name on the paper. I watch the other girls surf, and they are incredibly skilled. I start to feel anxious, considering taking Harlan's advice and leaving.

"Stop fidgeting," Gage says. "You'll be fine. Don't let Harlan