Page 18 of Wild Tangled Hearts

“Right,” I grunt, tying the shoelaces. “You mean you’re just glad I’mdatingagain.”

She chuckles. “Well, that too. I want you to be happy.”

“I am happy.” I stand and wiggle my toes against the stiff leather. “Not everyone is lucky enough to meet their perfect soulmate when they’re eighteen, like you and Dad.”

“It’s not about finding the perfect match, sweetheart. It’s about making a decision each day to work for the love you choose.”

A sigh escapes my lips, and I know she’s right. But it’s hard not to want my Prince Charming when the fairytale has been told and retold since the beginning of time.

I glance in the full-length mirror and assess myself. I’ve tried to choose an outfit that’s both practical and cute, opting for comfortable leggings, a fitted tank top, and a light jacket. My hair is pulled back into a messy bun, and I’ve applied just a touch of mascara and lip gloss.

“Darling,” my mom says as I walk out of the quaint suburban house that was my home growing up, “remember to keep that heart of yours wide open.”

Oh, how I wish I could.

But the reality is for every Prince Charming waiting to sweep a girl off her feet, there seems to be a thousand cheaters and jerks, just waiting to play the villain and break a girl’s heart.

But Alex seems to be one of the good ones. At least, I hope he is.

A fluttering sensation fills my chest as I drive toward our designated meeting spot. The prospect of spending two days with Alex, deep in the heart of the woods, rickety bridges and all, stirs a mix of emotions. It’s an unconventional setting, but it’s the perfect opportunity to gauge his character, and our chemistry.

I spot Alex waiting by his pickup as I pull into the parking area. He looks rugged and handsome, dressed in outdoor gear, accentuating his muscular physique. My nerves intensify as I step out of my car, and for a moment, I’m worried I might trip over my feet.

But then I glimpse those warm hazel eyes, and all my worries melt away.

“Bella!” he calls out, his voice filled with genuine excitement, as he gives me a dimpled smile.

“Hi,” I reply, my voice breathless as I approach him.

He greets me with a hug, and for a moment, I revel in the warmth of his embrace. Something about how he holds me makes me feel safe and desired all at once. Those muscular arms of his are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

“I’m so glad you decided to come,” he says, pulling back slightly and glancing down at me, his smile wide and infectious.

“I’m a little nervous,” I admit, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear.

“You’ll do great. And I promise as few rickety bridges as possible.”

I chuckle, and we chat for a while as we wait for the rest of the hiking group to arrive. Alex tells me more about his love for the outdoors, his passion for nature, and his work with SummitStar Adventures. His enthusiasm is contagious, and I find myself more drawn to him with each passing moment and even a bit excited about starting the hike.

As the group assembles, I feel a sense of camaraderie among the hikers. They all seem friendly and thrilled about the trek ahead. Alex introduces me to everyone, and I’m relieved they’re a welcoming bunch.

We set off with our backpacks secured and our hiking boots laced up. The trail winds through lush forests and opens up to breathtaking vistas. Alex takes the lead, his knowledge of the area and charismatic personality shining through as he shares stories and points out interesting landmarks.

Throughout the hike, Alex and I find moments alone, exchanging playful smiles and whispered conversations that make my heart flutter with excitement.

“Let’s take a short break here,” Alex announces to the group, gently placing his backpack beside a towering oak tree. “Feel free to grab some water and a quick snack if you’d like, but remember not to wander too far,” he adds.

As the other hikers disperse, heading for nearby rocks or fallen logs to rest and refuel, I linger near Alex and sip my water bottle.

Alex leans against the massive tree. “Not in a hurry to explore the area?”

“I think I’ll stick with the guide.” I say, half teasing, “My luck, I’ll get lost or run into a grizzly bear.”

He chuckles. “There aren’t any grizzlies around this area. We do see a few black bears from time to time, but—”

“You’re kidding me?” I can feel my eyes widen, my face losing color as the realization that we could come into contact with a bear hits me.

Another deep laugh rumbles in his chest. “Don’t worry. I promised you I wouldn’t put you in any danger.”

---