Page 11 of Wild Tangled Hearts

I tap my chin, pretending to ponder. “I can turn any spilled paint into a masterpiece with just a flick of my brush.”

He grins. “I have to confess I don’t meet many ninja art teachers in my line of work.”

I chuckle and admit, “Honestly, though, I did take a few Karate lessons when I was younger. Other than swimming, it was the only sport I ever tried. I was more of an arts and crafts kind of kid. But I bet you were into all the sports.”

“Yeah, pretty much. But I found my passion for hiking and rock climbing.” His smile falters, some memory stirring in his hazel eyes before those dimples return. “It’s one of the reasons I started SummitStar Adventures.”

“I’ve heard about the company. It’s guided hiking trips, right?”

Alex leans in, and I can tell he’s eager to share his passion. “It’s all about helping people experience the magic of the mountains,” he begins. “We offer guided expeditions and outdoor adventures focused on exploring the beauty and challenges of high-altitude terrain.”

“That sounds amazing.”

“It is, but the company is still growing. When the season’s slow, I sub as a gym teacher from time to time. My parents would prefer me to settle into a more permanent teaching position, but I prefer the thrill of the wilderness and the freedom of the mountains.”

“I get that. Maybe not the outdoorsy part,” I say, grinning. “But I know what it’s like to have a passion. I feel the same when I have my sketchbook out or a new palette of watercolors and a blank canvas in front of me.”

“I’ve never had much of an artistic streak,” he says. “But I’ll make you a deal.”

“What’s that?”

“You join me on a hiking trip, and you can teach me how to use a paintbrush on the next date.”

I laugh. “Hmm, maybe. I may have to up my cardio before I take you up on the offer.”

Alex grins, leaning in closer. “I promise I won’t take you on a grueling expedition. It’ll be a hike tailored to your comfort level.”

I raise an eyebrow. “Oh, you’re saying you won’t make me scale any sheer cliffs or cross rickety rope bridges?”

He chuckles. “No cliffs on your first attempt, but I can’t promise no rickety bridges.”

My stomach twists at the thought of an adventure with Alex, a mix of nervous excitement and anticipation. “Well,” I reply with a hint of teasing, “I suppose a rickety bridge or two could add some thrill to the experience. Just promise to hold my hand if it gets too scary.”

Alex’s grin widens, his eyes sparkling. “Deal. I’ll be your fearless guide through the wilderness and the world of rickety bridges.” His hazel eyes locked onto mine and he grins. “Plus, I have a secret.”

“Really?” I ask, intrigued. “What is it?”

“Well, when I’m not conquering the great outdoors or teaching kids to do the perfect push-up, I moonlight as a...professional marshmallow roaster.”

I burst into laughter, unable to contain it. “A professional marshmallow roaster? That’s the most intriguing secret identity I’ve ever heard.”

He shrugs with a grin. “Hey, marshmallow roasting is an art form. Perfectly toasted and gooey on the inside, just like the perfect date.”

My stomach flutters, and I easily fall into his gaze. There’s no denying the spark between us. He’s sweet, charming, and gorgeous.

And safe.

Alex leans in closer as we finish our coffee, and a gentle, lingering silence hangs between us.

With a soft, sincere smile, he breaks the silence. “I had an amazing time today,” he says, his voice barely above a whisper. “And I’d like to see you again.”

My heart flutters at his words, but a hint of uncertainty lingers in my mind. He seems almost too perfect. But before I can voice my doubts, Alex closes the distance between us. His lips, soft and warm, meet mine in a sweet, lingering kiss.

As Alex pulls back, he gives me that irresistible dimpled grin, and a warmth washes over me. He’s charming, sweet, and undeniably attractive. But as I sit there, contemplating my choices, I can’t help but feel torn.

“Hope that’s a yes,” he says.

I nod, smiling at him. But in my thoughts, I can’t ignore the other choices that beckon: Damien, the bad boy with a hint of danger, and Sebastian, whose irresistible allure calls to me like a siren’s song. But then, taking a chance with Alex might be the most unexpected and thrilling adventure of all.

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