Page 32 of Entangled with a Mountain Man

As we settle into a rhythm, I can't help but marvel at how quickly these girls have wormed their way into my heart. It's dangerous, getting attached when I know I can't stay. But watching them laugh and work together, I can't bring myself to regret it.

The shop door swings open again, and I tense as Steph walks in, followed by her husband, Big Bear. Their easy affection is obvious as they move around each other, a well-practiced dance.

"Morning, sugar," Steph calls out, her warm smile easing some of the tension in my shoulders. "How's business today?"

"Quiet," I reply, gesturing to the twins. "But I've got some help now."

Big Bear chuckles, the sound rumbling through the shop. "Those two? More like double trouble, I bet."

The girls giggle, clearly used to his teasing. I watch as he scoops them both up in a bear hug, their laughter filling the air. It's a picture of family, of belonging, that makes my chest ache with longing.

Steph sidles up to me, her voice low. "You doing okay, honey? You look a little worn out."

I force a smile. "I'm fine, Miss Steph. Just... adjusting, I guess."

She gives me a knowing look. "The town still giving you trouble?"

I shrug, not wanting to burden her with my problems. But Steph's always been able to see right through me.

"Don't you let them get to you," she says firmly. "They don't know you like we do."

Her words warm me, but they can't quite chase away the chill of doubt. The whispers follow me everywhere I go in this town. The sidelong glances, the hushed conversations that stop when I walk by. It's like being back in high school, only worse because I'm supposed to be a grown-ass woman now.

As if summoned by my thoughts, I catch a glimpse of Paige and her crew through the shop window. They're across the street, heads bent together, no doubt plotting their next move to make my life miserable.

I stiffen, bracing myself for another confrontation. But Big Bear steps into view, his massive frame blocking the window.

"Don't give 'em the satisfaction," he rumbles, his kind eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're worth ten of them girls, easy."

I blink back tears, touched by his unwavering support. "Thanks, Big Bear."

He nods, then turns to the twins. "All right, munchkins. Who wants to help me organize the tool section?"

As they scamper off, chattering excitedly, I take a deep breath. These people—Steph, Big Bear, the twins—they've shown me more kindness in a month than I've known in years. But I can't shake the feeling that it's temporary. That sooner or later, the other shoe will drop.

I glance over at Steph, who's watching me with a knowing look. She gives me a reassuring nod, and I feel a rush of gratitude for her silent support.

The bell over the door jingles again, and I turn, expecting to see another customer. Instead, my stomach drops.

Paige saunters in, flanked by her usual crew. Her eyes lock onto me, cold and calculating.

"Well, well," she drawls, her voice dripping with fake sweetness. "If it isn't the town's favorite charity case."

I force a polite smile. "Good morning, Paige. Can I help you with something?"

She laughs, the sound grating on my nerves. "Oh, honey. I think you've helped enough, don't you?"

I bite my tongue, reminding myself that the twins are within earshot. But before I can respond, Steph's voice rings out, sharp and clear.

"Come in here with that bull, and I’ll be the one to finish it."

Paige's eyes narrow, but she knows better than to cross Steph. With a final glare in my direction, she turns on her heel and stalks out, her posse trailing behind her.

As the door slams shut, I let out a breath. The encounter leaves me shaken, bringing back all the doubts and insecurities I've been trying to push down.

Harper's little face peeks around the corner, her hazel eyes wide with concern. "My Daddy says 'mean people finish last.'"

I smile at her innocent wisdom. "Your daddy's a smart man."

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