Page 8 of The Minx and the Mountain Man

I sigh. “You don’t like change, do you?”

He mutters something under his breath and stalks into the kitchen. I let him go. If I’ve learned anything in my short time with Reid Calloway, it’s that he needs time to warm up.

* * *

I thought maybe Reid would crack a smile at some point today. You know, considering we’re getting married.

But no. Not even a little one.

Instead, he stands beside me in the tiny office of the Pine Hollow Justice of the Peace like he’s about to be executed, his arms crossed over his broad chest, his scowl as deep as ever.

The judge, a kind older man named Judge Walker, clears his throat and glances between us. “You, uh, both sure about this?”

“Yup,” I chirp, gripping the bouquet I was given by the Judge’s assistant.

“Absolutely.” Reid grunts.

Judge Walker eyes him warily before continuing. “All right, then.” He flips open his book and begins reciting the vows.

I listen intently, but the entire time, I can feel Reid beside me—his warmth, his quiet strength, the tension radiating from his body like a storm about to break.

When it’s time for us to say I do, I go first, my voice bright and clear. “I do.”

All eyes land on Reid. His jaw clenches. His adam’s apple bobs as he swallows. For a split second, I think he might back out.

But then, finally, his gruff voice fills the tiny office. “I do.”

Relief floods me as Judge Walker grins. “Well, all right then. By the power vested in me by the great state of Montana, I now pronounce you husband and wife.”

And just like that, I’m Mrs. Reid Calloway.

I turn to Reid, beaming. He stares down at me, his expression unreadable, before letting out a low sigh and muttering, “Glad that’s over.”

“Not exactly the most romantic way to start a marriage,” I tease as we step outside into the crisp afternoon air.

He doesn’t respond.

Instead, he stalks toward his truck, opening the passenger door for me before climbing into the driver’s seat.

I let out a breath and follow, climbing up into the cab. Well, this might not be the wedding I dreamed of as a little girl, but it’s still the start of something new, and I’m determined to make the best of it.

“We need to stop for some things,” I say, turning toward Reid. “The general store should have it all.”

“I have everything I need at the cabin.”

“That might be true, but I need some things. I have a list.” I give him my biggest smile, but he doesn’t say anything in return.

Reid pulls into the parking lot of the general store. I get out of the truck and spin around, trying to take everything in. Pine Hollow is exactly the kind of mountain town I pictured—small, charming, and old-timey vibe.

The moment I step into the general store, a bell chimes overhead, and all eyes land on me.

“Well, well, well,” an older woman behind the counter drawls, her bright blue eyes twinkling. “You must be Reid’s bride.”

“That’s me!” I smile, stepping up to the counter. “Sadie Winslow—er, Calloway, I guess.”

She wipes her hands on her apron before reaching out. “Dottie McClain. My husband and I run this place. And let me tell you, honey, you are a breath of fresh air.”

The other customers murmur their agreement, a few women coming closer to introduce themselves. I quickly learn that Pine Hollow runs on three things: strong coffee, strong opinions, and an even stronger sense of community.

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