Page 1 of Chosen for the Mountain Man

CHAPTER 1

MAX

My phone buzzes, and I glance over to see Duke's name flashing across the screen. I'm not really in the mood to chat, but I know he's just checking in on me like the good friend and brother-in-law he is. I swipe to answer, plastering on a smile as he pops up on video.

“There he is,” he says, and I nearly roll my eyes at his scruffy beard, and that shaggy hair getting more unruly by the minute.

Pshh. Army guys.

“You need a haircut, brother,” I say, taking a sip of my beer. “Army sure let you slack off.”

Duke grins. “We were too busy swooping in to save your sorry Marine asses to worry about that high and tight bullshit.”

I shake my head, chuckling. “That’s the thanks we get for getting you all where you needed to be in the first place? Didn’t see any Army guys volunteering.”

Duke laughs, tapping his temple. “We ain’t stupid.”

“Why did I answer this call again?”

“Because I love ya, man…despite your lack of judgment when you signed up.” He gives me a smug smile. “And because I love your sister more than life itself.”

I groan. “Looks like the Army made you soft, too.”

“Nah, I’m afraid that’s all Ro,” he says, and gives me a wink.

He knows I’m thrilled he married my baby sister, Aurora. They’re perfect for one another. But ever since Duke swept Ro off her feet, I've been adrift, feeling like the third wheel in the happily-ever-after they've stumbled into.

I’d left the Marines about ten years ago to care for my teenage sister when our parents died in the car accident. Everything I did—starting my cleaning business and working non-stop, nose to the grindstone—I did for her. She’d beenmyresponsibility. Mine to protect from this crazy world.

But since the wedding, things have been…different. Not bad, just different.

Duke’s taken over my former role…and I couldn’t be happier—even if it stings a little.

I’m not sure where I fit in anymore. Or who I’m supposed to be now.

And I never realized how lonely I’d be without my sister around.

“Why don't you come over for dinner tonight, Max?” Duke asks. “Ro’s cooking her famous pot roast. Have a drink, unwind... We worry about you, man. You work too hard.”

I chuckle, shaking my head. “I appreciate the offer, but I think I'll pass tonight. I'm good.”

“It's been weeks since we've seen you. I’ll drag you over here by your collar if I have to, you know.” Duke's eyes crinkle at the corners, but I know he's serious. He’s never been one to mince words, which is one of the reasons I like him so damn much.

Guilt pangs me, knowing they mean well. “I appreciate the invitation…and your concern, I do. And I'll make it up to you both soon, I promise. It's just... I need some time to figure some things out.”

Duke's eyes soften. “Hey, I get it. I know it's been an adjustment. But we love you, and we want you to be happy, too.”

“I know, and I'm trying,” I assure him, deciding to change the subject. “Besides, you two need your space, newlyweds and all that.”

“We'll always have room for you, Max,” he says earnestly. “You're more than just family. But I understand if you need some distance, at least for a little while.”

I manage a heartfelt smile. “Thanks. I'll reach out soon. Maybe you and I can hit the trails together next week?”

“You're on,” he says. “But, listen, if there's anything you wanna talk about…”

“I know, Duke,” I interrupt gently. “I’ll keep you posted.”

He nods. “All right then. Later, brother.”

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