Page 12 of Stepbrothered by the Mountain Man

“Maya, private money lenders are notorious for outrageous interest rates. This contract says the interest will be twenty-one percent. At a regular bank, the mortgage rate for our area is about six point eight percent. This is more than triple.”

“I know that,” I say, starting to get a little frustrated. “But it’s my only chance. Besides, I've calculated the monthly payments plus how much I’ll be left with.”

By the looks of it, he’s calculating it, too. Seeing as he balances the books and does most of the finance work, my paycheck isn’t a secret.

His eyes fly to mine once he’s worked out the calculation. “You’d only have about one hundred dollars left per month!”

“But I live at the lodge for free. My meals are free in the dining hall and so are my coffees. I literally walk to work since it’s just downstairs so I don’t own a car. I don’t have any significant expenses.”

“Maya,” Levi shakes his head, closing the folder and taking my hand. Again I marvel at the sheer size of it as he pulls me toward him and onto his lap. “Even with all of that being said, you’re putting yourself in a potential bind. This contract is advantageous at best and truly criminal at worst.”

“But Beau—”

“Will figure out another option with Grant and me.”

I knit my brows. “And what about me? I’m a part of the family and lodge, too.”

“Of course you are.”

My brows knit. “But you don’t want my help.”

“Not like this, no,” he sighs. “I can’t let you do this, angel.”

I get to my feet and immediately feel colder as I step away from him. “Well, it isn’t up to you,” I say, taking the folder back. “It’s a win-win for everyone. The lodge gets its additions, and I get my dream property.”

“Maya, you aren’t thinking clearly.”

Nothing had ever been clearer to me. “Levi, I know what I want, and I’ve found a way to get it. This isn’t just some piece of land. I know it sounds ridiculous but I swear it's like it’s alive. It sings to my soul.”

“Maya.”

“If it’s a mistake, then it’s my mistake to worry about.”

He shakes his head furiously. “It’s not just your mistake—”

I ignore him, wrenching the door open. He just didn’t get it. How could he when he was content to stay at the lodge forever?

“Maya!”

The roar of the chainsaw drowns out his calls as I slam the door behind me.

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