Page 14 of Tempting the Mountain Man

“Not bad,” he says, chewing slowly, a teasing smile on his lips. “But I think I’m better at this.”

He leans forward again, feeding me a piece of dark chocolate. The rich flavor melts on my tongue, and I can’t resist leaning closer, the moment impossibly intimate.

As we continue to eat, the gentle breeze carries the sound of the waterfall. Right now, up here with Gabe? It feels like magic. I lean back on my elbows, letting the last rays of sunlight warm my face as I bask in the perfectness of being here with Gabe. “I’m lucky to have met you,” I say, turning to smile warmly at Gabe. “You make everything feel special.”

Gabe looks at me, his expression serious but soft. “You know, I’ve never done anything like this before. Planning a picnic, taking the time to make it special.” He sips his cider, and I watch his throat work as he swallows. “I like it.”

“I’m glad,” I reply as warmth spreads through me. “I mean it, Gabe. What you’ve done—it’s important to me.”

“Good,” he says, his voice low and steady. “You should feel that way.” His words hold a weight that sends excitement bubbling through my bloodstream, and I lean closer, drawn to him as I’ve never been drawn to anyone before.

As we share stories and laughter, I sense a tension in Gabe. He’s a little quieter, his gaze drifting toward the waterfall, and I can’t help but worry. Is something wrong?

“Is everything okay?” I ask, my voice soft. I lean in closer, searching his light brown eyes for answers. “You’ve become a little distant.”

He pulls me in closer, his arms wrapping around me, and I melt into him, safe and cherished. “I’m great,” he says, but his gaze holds a flicker of uncertainty that doesn’t convince me.

My heart is in my throat as I look at him. “You know you can tell me anything, right? If something’s bothering you...”

The air shifts, thick with tension and anticipation. My heart races as I await his words, unsure of what’s coming next. I hold my breath, searching his eyes, hoping he’ll share what’s weighing on him.

He takes a deep breath, his brow furrowing slightly. “I really like you, Polly.”

“I like you too, Gabe. You know that,” I reply, my pulse quickening. I still can’t shake the feeling that something is off. Is this somehow his way of ending things with me? Is he leaving Sweetheart Falls?

“No, I mean—” He pauses, running a hand through his hair, his expression torn. “I mean, Ireallylike you. More than I’ve ever liked anyone before.”

My heart swells, and I smile at him. “I feel the same way. I’m so happy with you, Gabe.”

“Polly,” he begins, his voice uneven. “I need to tell you something.”

CHAPTER 8

GABE

I’ve been offered a job. It’s a good job. But...it’s in another state.”

The light dies in Polly’s eyes and they fill with hurt. Fuck. It pierces my heart to see her disappointment reflected at me.

“Where?” she asks, her voice barely above a whisper.

“It’s with Ghost Security. It’s out in Heartland, in Jefferson—a few states away. They want me to oversee a new project,” I say, forcing the words out. “It’s a solid opportunity—good pay, benefits, the works.”

“Wow,” she breathes, biting her lip. A mask comes over her features, and I know I’m on the verge of losing her. “That sounds like an amazing opportunity. You should consider it.” Her tone is supportive, but the flicker of pain in her eyes makes it clear this isn’t what she wants to hear.

“It is a good opportunity, yes, but I don’t want to leave you behind.”

Her expression shifts, a mixture of encouragement and sadness. “Gabe, if this job is what you want, you should take it. I’m not going to hold you back.”

“To be honest, I’m going to pass on the job.” It’s a strange relief to say the words, but having done so, everything is so much clearer now. “I want to stay in Sweetheart Falls.”

Polly’s head snaps up, and she looks deep into my eyes. “What? Why?”

“Because of you. I’m not leaving you,” I say, the words tumbling out in a rush.

A riot of emotions passes through Polly’s eyes, and she tilts her head. “Really?” she asks in a small voice. “You’d stay here forme?”

“Damn straight, I’ll stay here for you. There are millions of jobs—there’s only one you.”

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