Page 8 of The Mountain Man's Curvy Bride

When he finally pulls back, we're both breathing heavily, his dark eyes searching mine carefully. "Was that okay?" he asks softly.

I nod, unable to stop the smile spreading across my lips. "More than okay."

He smiles softly, pulling me close, wrapping me securely in his strong embrace. "Good," he whispers against my hair. "Because I've been wanting to do that since the day you arrived."

Nestled safely in Wes's arms, my heart feels lighter than ever before. I may not have planned this, may not have known exactly what I was getting myself into, but tonight, wrapped in his warmth, I realize something important.

I might just be falling in love with my husband.

7

Wes

Sunlight filters through the curtains as I wake up, the warmth of Daisy nestled against my side reminding me vividly of last night. My heart thuds heavily in my chest, equal parts excitement and anxiety swirling through me. I pushed the boundaries, kissed her, held her close, and I can’t deny how right it felt.

But the morning light brings clarity—and doubt. Daisy deserves better than a half-hearted attempt at romance from a rusty mountain man who's spent years avoiding human contact. I need to show her that last night wasn't just a fleeting moment, that she matters.

A date. A real, honest-to-God date. I haven't been on one in years—hell, I barely remember what a proper date looks like. But for Daisy, I'll figure it out.

Carefully slipping from the bed, trying not to disturb her, I head into the kitchen to brew some coffee. As the coffee percolates, filling the cabin with its rich aroma, I consider my options. Dinner out is a safe bet, but I want to do something morepersonal, something she’ll remember. Daisy deserves something special.

I glance out the window, taking in the beauty of the mountains bathed in morning light, and an idea takes shape.

Daisy enters the kitchen moments later, rubbing her sleepy eyes, her hair tousled in a way that makes my chest tighten pleasantly. "Good morning," she murmurs, smiling softly.

"Morning," I reply, handing her a steaming mug. "Sleep okay?"

Her cheeks turn slightly pink. "Better than okay."

I clear my throat, feeling a bit awkward. "Good. Listen, about last night—I hope I didn't?—"

"Wes," she interrupts gently, her gaze steady and reassuring. "Last night was wonderful."

Relief washes over me, making me feel bolder. "Well, I was thinking we could go out today. On a real date."

Her eyes widen with surprise and delight. "Really? A date?"

"Yeah," I confirm, nerves bubbling in my stomach. "I haven't exactly done this in a while, but I'd like to do something special."

"I'd love that," she says warmly, excitement sparkling in her eyes. "What did you have in mind?"

I smile softly, feeling more confident. "It's a surprise. Just dress warmly, okay?"

She nods eagerly, grinning widely. "I can't wait."

Later that afternoon, I lead Daisy out to my truck, watching her eyes light up with curiosity. Bundled up in warm sweaters andcoats, we drive a short distance up the mountain to a secluded clearing I discovered years ago. The view is breathtaking—majestic peaks towering over lush valleys, untouched snow sparkling under the fading sunlight.

I pull a heavy blanket and a basket from the truck bed, spreading the blanket carefully on the snowy ground.

Daisy looks around, eyes wide and appreciative. "Wes, this is incredible."

"Glad you like it," I say gruffly, settling beside her on the blanket and unpacking the basket. Inside are sandwiches, fruit, and a thermos of hot chocolate I'd prepared earlier.

We sit together, eating in companionable silence, the tranquility of the mountain surrounding us. The quiet beauty of the place eases my nerves, allowing me to relax fully for the first time in days.

"You surprised me," Daisy says finally, sipping her hot chocolate thoughtfully. "I didn't expect something so thoughtful."

I shrug slightly, trying to appear casual despite the warmth spreading through my chest at her praise. "You deserve thoughtful."

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