Page 13 of Craving the Mountain Man

Grayson's eyes find mine as he speaks. "We will be ending the expedition early and returning to base camp today. However, this is not the end of our journey together."

He takes a deep breath before continuing. "Mr. Donovan has agreed to invest in Fire Mountain Expeditions, but with a new vision. Instead of developing the mountain for commercial tourism, we'll be expanding our conservation efforts and educational programs."

A murmur of surprise and excitement ripples through the group. I can hardly believe what I'm hearing.

"Our goal," Grayson continues, "will be to share the beauty and importance of this wilderness with others, while ensuring its protection for generations to come. We'll be offering moreguided expeditions, wilderness survival courses, and partnering with local schools for outdoor education programs."

Mr. Donovan steps forward, nodding in agreement. "After experiencing the raw power of this mountain firsthand last night, I realized that some things are more valuable left untouched. I believe this new direction will not only be profitable but also beneficial for the community and the environment."

As the group breaks into excited chatter, discussing the possibilities of this new plan, Grayson makes his way over to me. His eyes are bright with a mixture of relief and hope.

"What do you think?" he asks softly, taking my hand in his.

I beam up at him, feeling a swell of pride and admiration. "I think it's brilliant. You found a way to save the mountain and the company. I'm so proud of you, Grayson."

He pulls me close, not caring who might see. "I couldn't have done it without you, Skylar. You gave me the courage to fight for what really matters."

As we begin to pack up camp for our descent, there's a new energy in the air. The team works together with renewed purpose, excited about the future that lies ahead.

Jake sidles up to me as I'm rolling up my tent. "So," he says with a knowing grin, "I take it you and the boss man worked things out?"

I feel a blush creep up my cheeks but can't suppress my smile. "You could say that."

Jake chuckles, shaking his head. "About time. You two have been dancing around each other since day one. Just remember, I called it first."

As we make our way down the mountain, I find myself falling into step beside Grayson. Despite the physical strain of the descent, especially with my still-tender ankle, I feel lighter than I have in years.

"What happens when we get back to Ashwood?" I ask, voicing the question that's been nagging at the back of my mind.

Grayson glances over at me, his eyes softening as he takes in my concerned expression. He reaches out to take my hand, intertwining our fingers as we continue down the trail.

"When we get back to Ashwood," he says slowly, "things will be different. Good different, I hope."

I squeeze his hand encouragingly. "Different how?"

He's quiet for a moment, carefully picking his way over a rocky section of the path before responding. "For starters, I think it's time I stepped back from the day-to-day operations of Fire Mountain Expeditions."

My eyes widen in surprise. "What? But Grayson, the company is your life's work!"

He nods, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "It has been. But I've realized something important on this trip. There's more to life than just the company. More that I want to experience."

His gaze meets mine, filled with warmth and promise. My heart skips a beat as I begin to understand what he's saying.

"I was thinking," Grayson continues, his voice low and intimate despite our companions nearby, "that maybe it's time I focused more on the guiding aspect of our work. Leading smaller, more specialized expeditions. Teaching others to respect and protect the wilderness."

"That sounds perfect for you," I say softly, imagining Grayson in his element, sharing his passion for the mountain with others.

He nods, looking thoughtful. "And I was hoping... well, I was wondering if you might want to be a part of that. Not just as my assistant, but as a true partner. In business and... in life."

I stop in my tracks, my breath catching in my throat. "Grayson, are you saying what I think you're saying?"

He turns to face me fully, his eyes shining with emotion. "Skylar, I know this is fast. And I know we have a lot to figure out. But being with you these past few days has shown me what I've been missing all these years. You challenge me, you inspire me, you make me want to be better. I don't want to waste any more time pretending I'm not falling in love with you."

Tears prick at my eyes as I listen to his heartfelt words. "Oh, Grayson," I whisper, reaching up to cup his cheek. "I'm falling in love with you too."

He leans down, capturing my lips in a tender kiss that speaks volumes about his feelings. When we part, both slightly breathless, I can't help but grin.

"So," I say teasingly, "what's our first order of business when we get back to civilization?"

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