Page 19 of Wild Tangled Hearts

I relax slightly, nudging him, and tease, “You know, if a bear does show up, you’ll have to protect me with those strong arms of yours.”

He grins, stepping closer. “I’ve got a few wilderness survival tricks up my sleeve. Always ready to put these arms to good use.”

Alex’s words and the seductive look he gives me make my cheeks flush with warmth. The chemistry between us feels intense, and it’s only growing hotter with each passing minute I spend with him.

It’s so easy to get lost in his hazel eyes, their depths pulling me in like a powerful current. I can’t help but want to reach up and trace my fingers over those sexy dimples that appear when he smiles.

The bushes beside me start to rustle. At first, it’s just a faint sound, but then it grows more aggressive. My heart races as my mind jumps to one thought —bear.A sharp yelp escapes my throat, and I step closer to Alex, my eyes widening with fear.

“Easy, Bella,” Alex says, humor in his voice, but not missing the opportunity to pull me close to him. “It’s just—”

“Hey,” Craig, one of the other hikers, pushes through the bushes. “Sorry, Bella, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

I let out a shaky breath. “I thought you were a bear for a second.”

Craig grins. “Don’t worry, you’re not the first to make that mistake. My wife swears I snore like one.”

Alex laughs. “Good to know. I’ll put you in the tent at the far side of the camp.”

As Craig walks away, I let out an embarrassed groan and cover my face. “Maybe I’m not cut out for this.”

“You’re doing great.” He takes my hands, eyes locking onto mine. “And you’re safe with me.”

I realize it’s not just about feelingphysicallysafe with Alex; my heart feels safe, too.

It’s a good feeling.A really good feeling.And nerves turn to excitement at the possibilities to come.

As the day turns into a dusky evening, our hiking group arrives at the campsite, a breathtaking clearing nestled by the side of a glistening river. The scenery is picturesque, with the setting sun casting a warm, golden hue over the tranquil waters.

The campsite is already fully set up with sturdy tents, a well-equipped grill station, and a small, hut-like building that holds non-perishable foods and essential emergency supplies.

Amid the awe-inspiring natural beauty and the campsite’s thoughtful preparations, the mood is set for an unforgettable evening.

“You can take this one,” Alex says, helping me with my backpack and placing it inside the tent.

“What about you?” I ask.

“I’m over there.” He nods at the tent closest to the river, then glances back at me gaze holding mine, and butterflies take flight in my stomach.

His rugged appearance adds to his undeniable charm, with a hint of scruff on his strong jawline, giving him a rugged and effortlessly sexy edge. His sun-kissed hair, tousled by the day’s adventures, frames his handsome face and adds to his overall appeal. With a commanding presence and those mesmerizing hazel eyes, he’s a vision of rugged masculinity that’s hard to resist.

God, he’s sexy.

He clears his throat, dragging a large hand through his hair and over the back of his neck. “Get settled, and then we’ll eat. You must be hungry.”

“Famished,” I say, the huskiness of my voice surprising even me.

Alex grins, then winks. “Good.” He turns and walks away, and I’m left there staring after him, enjoying the view.

With a contented sigh, I enter the small tent. I find a wooden pallet with sturdy foam padding for my sleeping bag, a flashlight and lantern for illumination, and a large bottle of water for convenience. Alex has taken comfort into account.

Despite the coziness, or maybe because of it, a part of me doesn’t want to sleep in it alone.

It’s too soon, my brain and heart warn. But my body has a whole other plan of what it wants. And why not? We’re both adults. There’s nothing wrong with having a little fun. But a small nagging voice in my head protests.Take it slow if you want this to be more than a one-night stand.

When I exit my tent, the fire is crackling, and the air is thick with a savory aroma that makes my mouth water.

Alex is at the heart of the culinary magic, tending to a large pot perched over the flames. A bubbling stew and an array of campy foods promise a delicious and comforting meal.

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