Page 4 of Bear Creek Valentine
“I seeDelicioushas a new fan. Perhaps the guests at the resort would also enjoy them, but you can work that out with Aiden. I’m curious, Dash, why you’re interested in Bear Creek instead of Blakeslee. After all, they’re right on the resort’s doorstep, have a larger population, and more services to offer.”
The inquiry gave Dash pause, though he probably should have expected it. The people here had good reason to wonder why a wealthy developer was suddenly focused on sleepy little Bear Creek when there were bigger fish to fry. He wasn’t sure he could make her understand, but it was a legitimate question, and DeeDee expected an honest answer.
“Blakeslee will enjoy some of the same benefits, but the area is almost exclusively designed for human tourists. While studying the region, my bear and I were drawn here. This town is something special, and if Bear Paw Holdings can help it grow and flourish, all the better. Personally, I’m eager to live in a rural, mixed community for a change, where my bear and I can live safe and free—something I couldn’t do back in Allentown.”
Ryder obviously wanted to add something, and Dash encouraged him to speak.
“One of the unique things about the resort is that it will also serve shifter guests. They’ll have the option of natural den-like accommodations, a place to relax and play under the dome, and a restaurant designed for bears. We wanted to give our urban shifter friends a vacation opportunity found nowhere else. Of course, while they’re in the area, we’ll provide day-trip opportunities to visit Bear Creek.”
DeeDee let loose a robust chuckle and reached for another Nut Bomb, prompting her guests to do the same.
“I’m not easily surprised, but somehow you’ve managed it! In all my years, I’ve never heard of a vacation spot designed for our people, and it sounds amazing. I have contacts with virtually every shifter community from Ohio to Maine and far into Canada. Between us, I think our public relations teams should be able to generate tremendous interest in the region—another opportunity to combine forces if you will.”
Except for DeeDee’s earlier faux pas, Ryder noticed Dash seemed relaxed and interested in what she had to say—partially due to being plied with chocolates, but the rest was all DeeDee. She put him at ease with her straightforward manner of speaking, honesty, and enthusiasm, allowing his friend to enjoy the meeting. Smiling, Dash plowed ahead with a question of his own for the friendly Mayor.
“I’ve read the facts about Bear Creek, but could you give me an insider’s sketch of what the town is really like?”
DeeDee lit up, eager to brag about her beloved home.
“Of course. I could talk all day, but let me give you the condensed version. At the moment, the population stands at almost four thousand. Bear shifters make up roughly eight percent of the total, though many more live in the outlying areas within the federally protected zone. You’ll find shifters of every variety here—gay, straight, singles, mixed couples, and found family groupings. They include downtown business owners, schoolteachers, self-employed, and some who live directly off the land year-round.
“Aside from safe neighborhoods and a low cost of living, you’ll find Bear Creek a close and friendly community that works together for the common good. The most obvious example is seen during our Christmas celebration every year, but folks here have a live and let live philosophy that discouragesdiscrimination or harassment. Oh, we’ve had a few bad apples from time to time, but those situations are handled privately.
“Traditionally, our growth rate has been flat, but we’re now facing a sudden surge of interest since the holiday shows went viral last November. Both the housing and commercial property markets are very active, and we expect significant growth over the next several years. Part of that is because of the employment and business opportunities your resort will bring to the area. Our people are already excited about the amphitheater, giving all of us something to look forward to. By the way, do you have an estimated completion date?”
Dash swallowed the Nut Bomb he’d been chewing, having discussed this with Ryder before the meeting.
“As soon as the ground thaws, the crew can get started. If all goes as planned, it should be ready to use by early fall. Meanwhile, I’m wondering if there are other ways to help the shifter community more directly. Do you have any suggestions?”
DeeDee’s scent altered abruptly, and her face reflected personal concern.
“I’m glad you asked, Dash. We do our best with minimal resources, but it’s never enough. Government grants have dried up in recent years, and humans don’t understand the unique needs of the shifter population. As I see it, we need to establish a charitable foundation, but few shifters have the resources to get one started.
“Aside from that, there are smaller projects you might be interested in funding—everything from a home for orphaned cubs to loans for new shifter businesses. We also have some families who need immediate help with food and utilities this winter. I’ll have Carmen email you a list so you can look it over and decide for yourself.”
Ryder could almost hear the wheels turning in Dash’s head as he considered DeeDee’s words. The man was generous to a fault,and dangling charitable opportunities in front of him was almost as enticing as chocolate. Almost. Dash cut short a growl and looked over at Ryder with thatI’ve made a decisionexpression he’d seen often through the years and then spoke to DeeDee.
“Would ten thousand cover the immediate needs you mentioned?”
DeeDee hadn’t expected such a generous and immediate response, and it took her a moment to do the math in her head.
“I believe so, but Carmen will have a better idea. I’ll have her send the information with the list I mentioned earlier, and she can coordinate with Ryder on the project. Your generosity is deeply appreciated, Dash. It will make a tremendous difference for a lot of families.”
The meeting ended with more scenting and handshakes, plus a request from Dash for directions toDelicious. DeeDee was delighted to provide them.
“It’s been my pleasure, Dash, and I have a feeling Bear Creek will never be the same with you in town.”
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Aiden hung up the phone, glad for DeeDee’s warning about expecting important visitors. His stomach fluttered with nerves, but with gift boxes to prepare, there was no time to worry before they arrived. Mind racing, he began filling the first with various Nut Bombs, fruit bars, Swirls, and bonbons.
Everyone in town knew Hawthorn and Sinclair represented Bear Paw Holdings(BPH)—the outfit responsible for the Pocono Ridge Resort and Golf Course. Rumors flew thick and fast about changes in Bear Creek amid some sort of cooperation between the town and the new resort. Apparently, they’d sampled his treats and now wanted to see the shop in person. The gift DeeDee ordered was large and expensive, including both thesample gift box and a supply of Bear Brownies. He’d just finished when the bell rang, and in walked two bear shifters he’d never seen before.
One remained by the door while the other strode forward to scan the room while sniffing for... Aiden wasn’t sure what, but it appeared to be a well-practiced maneuver. He was on the tall side, with dark skin, cropped hair, and an intimidating expression that brooked no argument. Definitely not someone he’d want to mess with.
The other was, well,gorgeous. Aiden’s dick perked up as he tried to avoid creepy staring. The man was a head shorter than Aiden but thick-bodied, hairy, bearded, muscled, and with a warm, open face that begged to be kissed. Damn! Aiden knew they could scent his arousal, but at least his apron hid the evidence. Fortunately, he was behind the counter, preventing him from jumping the attractive shifter. He had to get his shit together,fast.
“Welcome toDelicious; I’m Aiden Romero. May I assume you’re the gentlemen from Bear Paw Holdings? DeeDee Tillman told me to expect you.”
