Page 14 of Rescued By the Brooding Mountain Hero

My heart skips a beat at the thought of spending more time with Beau, just the two of us. I nod, not trusting my voice.

Beau leans in, his lips brushing against my forehead in a tender gesture that makes my breath catch. "One hour," he murmurs, his breath warm against my skin.

And then he's gone, the door closing softly behind him. I sink back onto the bed, my mind reeling. Am I really doing this? Putting my heart on the line for a man I just met?

But as I replay Beau's words in my head, I can't ignore the flicker of hope igniting in my chest. Maybe, just maybe, this is my chance at something real. Something amazing.

I'd be a fool to let it slip through my fingers without even trying.

12

BEAU

Istride through the Heartwood Lakefront Resort lobby, nodding at the guests enjoying their morning coffee by the crackling fireplace and giving a quick wave to my mom, who smiles at me like she knows what or who I'm here for. Yesterday’s storm was intense, but the mountain rescue team handled it well, as they always do. I checked in with the crew earlier - a few people got trapped on the trails, and one hiker needed hospital attention, but thankfully, there were no casualties.

As I make my way toward the lake, I shake my head, still marveling at the unexpected turn of events. I'm not usually the type of guy to let desire overrule reason, but there's something about Jade that draws me in like a moth to a flame. Her determination, her spirit - it's intoxicating.

When I dropped in at the rescue HQ, I told Liam I needed him to cover for me today. He raised an eyebrow when I admitted it was because of a girl, but then he grinned and clapped me on the shoulder.

"Go for it, man," he said, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "It's about damn time you let yourself have a little fun."

I chuckled, appreciating his support even as nerves fluttered in my stomach. I'm taking a risk, opening myself up to the possibility of something more with Jade. But after yesterday, after the incredible night we spent with each other, I know I can't let her walk away without seeing where this could lead. I'm no virgin, but sex with her was like nothing I've ever experienced before.

I take a deep breath as I reach Jade's cabin door, my heart pounding. I raise my hand and knock, trying to project an air of calm confidence even as nerves threaten to destroy me.

The door swings open, and there she is - Jade, looking absolutely stunning in a fitted hiking outfit that hugs her curves in all the right places. Her chestnut hair is pulled back in a ponytail, a few stray wisps framing her face. She quirks an eyebrow at me, her full lips curving into a smirk.

"Well, well, well," she drawls, leaning against the doorframe. "If it isn't my knight in shining armor. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

I can't help but grin at her sarcasm. "I was thinking, since the storm has passed and it's a beautiful day, maybe you'd like to join me for another hike?" I pause, then add with a wink, "I promise you won't get pelted by hailstones this time. And if anything does happen, I can protect you."

Jade rolls her eyes, but I can see the hint of a smile playing at the corners of her mouth. "Oh, you think so, do you? And what makes you think I need protecting?"

I chuckle, holding up my hands in mock surrender. "Hey, I'm just offering my services as a seasoned mountain guide. Besides, I know a spot that would be perfect for your novel research. Stunning views, rugged terrain—it's got it all."

Jade tilts her head, pretending to consider my offer. Finally, she sighs and steps back from the door, gesturing for me to enter.

"Fine," she says, grabbing her backpack from beside the door. "But I'm warning you, Beau Morgan - if you try any funny business out there, I'll push you off the nearest cliff myself."

I laugh, holding up my hands in a scout's honor gesture. "I swear, my intentions are purely professional. It's all for the good of your novel."

Jade narrows her eyes at me, but I can see the glint of amusement in their depths. "Alright then, Mr. Mountain Man. Lead the way."

As we step out of the resort lobby, I catch my mum's eye and she gives me a knowing smile. I roll my eyes good-naturedly but can't help the grin that spreads across my face. Jade follows my gaze and chuckles.

"Looks like someone's got a fan club," she teases, bumping her shoulder against mine.

I shake my head, laughing. "That's my mom. She's always been my biggest cheerleader."

We climb into my truck, and I drive a short distance to the trailhead. As we set off, Jade falls into step beside me. "So, where exactly are you taking me?" she asks, raising an eyebrow. "You're not planning on murdering me and hiding my body out here, are you?"

I clutch my chest in mock offense. "I'm wounded, Jade. Here, I thought we had something special."

She snorts, but I catch the hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Oh, we have something alright. I'm just not sure what to call it yet."

We continue bantering back and forth as we climb higher and higher, the trail growing steeper with each passing minute. Jade's breathing grows labored, but she pushes on determinedly, refusing to slow down.

"You know," I say, glancing over at her flushed face, "it's okay to take a break if you need one. The mountain's not going anywhere."

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