Page 93 of Entangled with a Mountain Man

But it's more than just the physical beauty of Silver Ridge that draws me in. It's the people, the community. The way they've welcomed me, a stranger, into their fold despite the drama that followed me here. Mel, Steph, Big Bear—they've become like family, offering the kind of unconditional love and support I've craved my whole life.

And then there's Everett and the girls. Just the thought of them has my heart swelling with a tenderness I didn't know I was capable of. Those two little munchkins have wormed their way into my heart, their infectious laughter and boundless energy reminding me of what it means to truly live.

And Everett...

Lord, that man is a walking contradiction. One minute, he's all gruff and brooding, his intense gaze enough to make my knees go weak. The next, he's gentle and protective, his actions speaking volumes about the depth of his feelings, even when his words fail him.

I came to Silver Ridge running from my past, from the pain and abandonment that had defined my life for so long. But somewhere along the way, this town became more than just an escape. It became a chance at a fresh start, a chance to finally put down roots and build the kind of life I've always dreamed of.

Sure, there have been bumps in the road—Ian's betrayal, Paige's vicious smear campaign, the whispers and sideways glances from the townsfolk. But through it all, I've found a strength within myself that I didn't know existed.

As I approach the ranch house, I can hear the faint sound of laughter and the clatter of dishes. A warmth spreads through me, chasing away the lingering doubts.

This is where I belong, I realize. With these people, in this place, building a future for my child and myself. Whatever comes next, I'm ready to face it head-on with the same fierce determination that's gotten me this far.

"Kenzie!" Mel opens the door, and I almost yelp. "Thank God you're here. Have you heard?"

"Girl, you scared me." I enter and hang up my purse and jacket, bracing myself for whatever new gossip is making the rounds.

"What now? Did Mrs. Thompson's cat get stuck in a tree again?"

Mel shakes her head, her eyes wide. "No, it's about you."

My heart sinks. "Again?"

We move to the laundry room, and I start loading sheets into the washer, trying to keep my hands busy.

"They're saying..." Mel hesitates, and I turn to face her. "They're saying you're pregnant with Ian's child."

The world stops spinning. The sheets slip from my hands, falling to the floor in a heap.

My vision blurs, and I stumble back, gripping the counter for support.

"What?" I choke out. "That's... that's not true. I mean, I am pregnant, but it's not Ian's. It's Everett's."

Mel's eyes widen. "You're actually pregnant? Oh, Kenzie..."

She pulls me into a hug, and I let out a shaky breath. "I haven't told Everett yet. I was going to do it tonight when he gets back from his trip."

"Oh, honey," Mel says softly. "I'm so sorry. This town and its damn gossip mill."

I pull away, wiping my eyes. "How did this even start?"

Mel shrugs helplessly. "Someone saw you talking to Ian at the store the other day. I guess they put two and two together and came up with five."

"Great," I mutter. "Just great. As if things weren't complicated enough."

"What are you gonna do?"

I shake my head, feeling lost. "I don't know, Mel. I just... I need some air."

Without waiting for a response, I leave and jump into my van. My mind racing as I drive toward Silver Ridge Park, a place that's become my sanctuary. I pull out my phone and call Everett, hoping to catch him, but it goes straight to voicemail.

"Hey, it's me. Call me as soon as you can. I’m heading to the park," I leave the message, my voice shaky.

My eyes drift to the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of my tired face. I look about as good as I feel.

I drive in silence. The Silver Ridge gossip mill is hovering over me like a storm cloud. As I arrive at the park, I feel the tension begin to ease. This place always offers me solace. It’s where I can process everything—the rumors swirling around me and my spiraling thoughts.

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