Page 9 of Fire Bear

She kept scanning the orchard’s main entrance where new arrivals trickled in. Then, as the crowd parted, she spotted him. Ash Bright walked in. Her breath caught. He was wearing casual jeans and a short-sleeve shirt that showed off his strong arms.

His handsome face was even more attractive in person, with eyes that scanned the crowd as though always on alert. He stood a good head taller than many folks around him, and even from a distance, she could see the confidence in his stride.

She forced herself to remain calm, smoothing her orchard T-shirt. “He’s just a man,” she murmured.

His gaze locked on her. Heat surged through her cheeks, and she realized she had been half lurking behind a booth. Resolving to greet him with composure, she stepped forward.

He crossed the distance in a few casual strides, weaving through attendees. When they were within arm’s reach, he said, “Eliana. I’m Ash.”

She nodded, feeling somewhat lightheaded. “It’s really nice to meet you.”

She extended a hand, intending a quick handshake, but the moment their palms touched, an unexpected jolt raced up her arm. She tried not to gasp, though her eyes widened slightly. He lingered just a fraction longer than normal, as if he too felt something.

“This place looks amazing.” His gaze roamed the lively surroundings, then returned to hers, a hint of awe flickering there.

“Thanks for coming,” she said, her voice a little breathy. “It’s been a busy day, but I’m glad you could make it.”

He nodded, releasing her hand. “Wouldn’t miss it.” He let out a short laugh, glancing away momentarily. “I’m still wrapping my head around being matched with my fated mate.”

“Me too,” she admitted. “It’s… surreal.” A hush of tension clung to them, despite the festival’s lively energy. She took a breath, recalling Talia’s warning. “Come on,” she said, gesturing for him to follow, “let me show you around.”

They ambled through the orchard clearing, moving from stall to stall. Eliana introduced him to a local honey vendor and crafter. Joy Kincaid, a bear shifter, who partnered with the orchard to keep bees among the apple blossoms. Joy mentioned to Ash that she was good friends with his sister Holly and sent her hello. He promised to tell her.

Next, she showed him the orchard’s historical timeline display: old photos of her grandparents planting the original saplings, black-and-white pictures of harvests from decades ago. He studied them, asking about her grandparents. His earnest attention made her chest glow with pride.

Eventually, they reached the cider tasting booth, a modest wooden stand decorated with apple crates, floral garlands, and a chalkboard menu listing various cider blends. With a wave, Eliana signaled the staffer to pour two glasses of her signature hard cider. The glass felt cool in her hand, and she guided Ash to one of the tables nearby.

“This cider is a blend of three heirloom varieties—it was originally my grandparents’ recipe, but I’ve tweaked it a bit.”

He tapped his glass gently against hers. “Cheers.” Then he took a slow sip and closed his eyes. A look of genuine appreciation spread across his face. “Wow,” he murmured after swallowing. “That’s… ridiculously good. The crisp tang is like aged apple brandy. I also detect honey and spices.”

Her smile widened. “There’s a variety called Golden Crisp in this blend. It lends the cider its signature dryness along with a hint of cinnamon that rounds out the flavor.”

He nodded, taking another swallow. “I love it,” he declared, “I’m not exaggerating.”

A delightful rush filled Eliana. It wasn’t just that he praised her cider, which warmed her heart, but also the sincerity in his tone.

Music drifted from the stage, where a local banjo player strummed a soft folk tune. Afternoon sunlight filtered through the orchard canopy, casting patterns across the grass. In that serene moment, Eliana forgot Talia’s warnings and her own busy schedule. All she sensed was the calm sincerity in Ash’s eyes and the orchard’s vibrant life surrounding them.

Then she remembered. “I have a demonstration in a few minutes,” she said, voice tinged with regret. “But let’s meet again after.”

Chapter

Six

Ash gatheredwith the crowd in front of the stage where Eliana stood with baskets of heirloom apples. Each variety had its own subtle hue, pale yellow, vivid red, even a streaked pattern.

Eliana’s voice carried easily. “These antique apples once teetered on the brink of extinction. My grandparents saved seeds and cuttings and cultivated them over decades. Now Hampton Orchard harvests apples folks haven’t tasted in generations.” A murmur of appreciation flowed through the listeners.

Ash’s inner bear had been ravenous from the moment he’d first picked up Eliana’s scent.Mate. Mate. Mate.His inner grizzly growled incessantly.

Seeing Eliana in her element, he felt a fresh surge of admiration. His fated mate wrapped up her talk, inviting folks to sample sliced apples. She caught his gaze across the small crowd. Their eyes met for a moment, and a spark of recognition passed between them. She gave a slight nod, delight shining in her expression.

Warmth flared in Ash’s chest. He felt an odd but welcome sense of belonging. He did not just admire Eliana; he wanted to stand beside her. With Eliana still busy fielding last-minute questions, Ash stepped back from the stage, letting her finish gracefully.

He decided to roam the orchard festival on his own for a bit. Overhead, strings of soft lights began flickering to life, signaling dusk’s approach. Their gentle glow illuminated booth canopies, giving the orchard clearing a cozy, magical vibe.

He meandered past stalls offering everything from caramel-coated apple slices to delicate wooden carvings shaped like woodland creatures. The air bristled with cheerful chatter.

---