Page 43 of Entangled with a Mountain Man

The truck comes to a stop, and Everett kills the engine. He turns to me, those blue eyes piercing straight through my resolve.

"Ready?" he asks, his voice a low rumble that sends a shiver down my spine.

I swallow hard, forcing a smile. "As I'll ever be. It won't take me long. I'll be right back."

I climb out of the truck, making my way to the shelter. With each step, I remind myself…

This is about the money. The girls. Nothing else.

I can do this. I have to.

With one last steadying breath, I open the door, leaving that kiss—and all the complications it brings—behind me.

For now.

10

MOVING IN

EVERETT

Kenzie steps out of the house with a single bag.

My chest tightens. One bag. That's all she's got to her name.

"Ready?" I jump out of the truck and approach her, reaching for the handle of her bag.

"Yeah, I'm all set," she replies, a small smile on her face.

The girls are bouncing in their seats, faces pressed against the window, watching our every move. I didn't give a whole lot of thought to this arrangement, specifically how my girls will handle having another nanny. But judging by the smiles on their faces. They're thrilled.

Kenzie releases the bag, and I'm surprised by how light it is. "This everything?"

She shrugs. "I travel light."

I nod and open the passenger door for Kenzie. Then, I toss the bag in the back with the girls.

The second she sits inside, the girls start in, and I close the door. But before I round the truck, a hand clamps down on my shoulder. Big Bear.

"A word, son," he rumbles, steering me away from the truck.

I nod, following him. His face is serious, more so than usual.

"Listen here, Everett," he starts, his voice low. "That girl there? She's special. Been through more than most, and she's still standing. You treat her right, you hear me?"

I bristle. "I know how to treat my employees, Big Bear."

He shakes his head. "This ain't about employment. It's about family. Kenzie's become part of ours, and I expect you to remember that."

I glance back at the truck, where Kenzie's laughing at something the girls said. She looks... happy. Relaxed.

"I hear you," I say finally.

Big Bear nods, satisfied. "Good. Now go on, get her settled."

As we walk back, I see Kenzie's eyes mist over. She hops out of the truck and throws her arms around Big Bear.

"Thank you," she whispers. "For everything."

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