Chapter 13
DARA
It's been three days and we finally received confirmation it was safe to make our way down to the resort.
In truth, I didn't want to leave Hunter's beautiful cabin. I didn't need anything but him and the gorgeous views surrounding us. He had everything we needed up there and while I understood I needed to get back to the resort, it also felt like we were in our own little world up on Aiden's ridge.
The line of the fire was clear, but the crews had acted quickly. No one was hurt and it was contained. They kept watch on it for any embers that might catch again, but it was declared safe and we're hiking side by side, his big hand holding mine, when the resort comes into view.
Hunt is waiting there, his arm around a curvy woman beside him, and there's no missing the relieved smiles on their faces when they spot us.
"Never had a doubt you'd make it, man." Hunt claps Aiden on the back, pulling him into a quick hug, and I'm swept into the arms of Jade, who tells me that they've got a private meal scheduled for me in my room.
"Chef has been worried sick. And he cooks when he's stressed. To all our benefit."
She leads me inside as the men continue to talk about the mountain, the trees, the fire clean up.
"Am I right in assuming that he'll be joining you in your room?
" Jade gives me a knowing look and when she spots my blush, she shakes her head.
"No judgment from me. I fell in love with Hunt over a flat tire after I basically accused him of being a serial killer.
I swear it's gotta be the mountain air."
"You don't think I'm crazy?" I feel like I've found a friend already and it makes me think about how I could fit in here. Not just with Aiden, but in this community of people as a whole.
"Girl, if you're crazy, we all are. I'm telling you, it happens around here.
Maybe it's the water. Or a combination of things.
But when these guys find the woman they want, there's no escaping them.
And frankly, who would want to. The things they know how to do, I'm telling you.
One night with that man of mine and there was no going back. I was keeping him."
We share a laugh and when Aiden finally joins me in my room, I'm feeling sure about the future we talked about.
He tackles me and we land on the bed.
"This is comfy, isn't it?" He nips at my ear, and I already know where his mind is going, because mine is already there, too.
A knock at the door has us groaning, but then I remember Jade's promise about a private meal from the chef.
"We better answer that. I've been promised we won't want to miss this."
He growls something that sounds like "It better be worth it," and kisses me on the nose before he leaves me to answer the door. The sun slants in through the window, bathing the room in a golden glow, and certainty settles in me.
This is where I belong.
And the man I belong with will be with me every step of the way.
EPILOGUE
Six months later