Page 12 of Claimed By 3 Mountain Men

“Well, fancy seeing you here, Mac,” he says, his voice smooth and inviting.

“JT,” I reply, trying to keep my tone neutral. “I didn’t expect to run into you so soon.”

“It’s a small town.” He steps closer, the intensity in his eyes making my pulse quicken. “How’s your first day in Silver Ridge been?”

“Interesting,” I say, choosing my words carefully. “It’s nice here. Quiet. I’ve learned a bit about it. About the people here.”

He raises an eyebrow, clearly amused. “Is that so? And what have you learned about me and my brothers?”

I take a deep breath, deciding to just be honest. “I’ve heard a lot about your family’s business. Some good, some not so good. I’d like to know more about it from your perspective.”

His smile falters slightly, a shadow crossing his face. “Our business isn’t exactly cocktail party conversation, Mac. But if you’re interested, maybe we can discuss it over dinner sometime?”

I meet his gaze, trying to gauge his sincerity. “I’m here to work, JT. I need to understand the impact your logging has on the environment, particularly on the silver lynx.”

He steps even closer, the heat of his body palpable. “And you think you can get those answers by asking them in a bar?”

“Maybe,” I reply with a shrug, my heart pounding. “Or maybe you’re trying to avoid the questions.”

His eyes narrow, a flash of irritation breaks through his charm. “I’m not avoiding anything. But this isn’t the place for that kind of discussion.”

“Then when?” I ask, not backing down. “When can we have a real conversation about what’s going on?”

Before JT can respond, Ben and Hank appear at his side, their expressions a mix of curiosity and protectiveness.

“What’s going on here?” Ben asks.

“Just a friendly conversation,” JT says, though his tone suggests otherwise. “Mac and I sat next to one another on the flight here.”

“That’s right,” I say, meeting his gaze head-on. “I’m Mac Redfern.”

“She’s a researcher, studying the environment here.”

“Look, we’re not the bad guys,” Ben says defensively. “We’re just trying to keep the business going and protect our family’s legacy.”

“I understand that,” I say, softening my approach slightly. “But I need to know more about your practices and how they’re affecting the environment.”

A spark of intrigue lingers in all their eyes.

“What happened, Mac? I thought we were friends?” JT asks.

“Sitting beside one another on a flight makes you friends?” Ben tilts his head, glancing between us.

For some reason, I feel like a cornered prey being hounded by three hungry wolves. I lean against the wall, keeping my expression cool.

“We had a pleasant conversation, that’s all.” I say finally, not wanting to divulge too much in front of them.

“Well, if you’re interested in learning more about our business,” JT says, his voice low and dangerous. “Why don’t youjoin us at the lodge sometime. We can show you around and answer your questions.”

“Why wait to meet when we are together right now? No time like the present, right?”

His lips falter into a cold smile.

“Right. Fine. We have nothing to hide. What do you want to know?”

I take a deep breath, seizing the opportunity. “Start by telling me about your logging practices.”

“Can we not do this right now?” Hank asks, shaking his head.

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