Page 20 of Wild Tangled Hearts

As I approach, he flashes me a warm smile, and the sight of him skillfully preparing the feast only deepens my admiration for him.

“And he cooks too,” I say, teasing. “You really are perfect.”

Those dimples deepen. “I’ve got skills you wouldn’t believe.” He winks and leans closer, gaze filled with humor. “But I’m no undercover ninja.”

I chuckle and accept the bowl that Alex hands me. “Maybe there’s something I can teach you.”

He raises an eyebrow. “I have a feeling there’s a lot you can teach me, Bella.”

His flirtatious response sends a pleasant shiver down my spine, and I find a spot on a log near the fire, my cheeks still tinged with a warm blush. It’s been a fantastic day, and I can’t help but reflect on how stepping out of my comfort zone and choosing to embark on this adventure has been one of my best decisions.

As the group disperses following the meal and clean up, I find myself staying closer to the campfire, reveling in the moment’s warmth and serenity. The forest comes alive with night sounds, and the fire’s dance casts an enchanting glow over the campsite.

“Ready for some marshmallow magic?” Alex asks, sitting beside me, a playful grin tugging at his lips.

I watch in amusement as he rotates the marshmallow over the flames, brows drawn down in concentration.

“Impressive skills you’ve got there,” I tease.

He smirks. “Well, I like my marshmallows just right — golden on the outside and gooey on the inside. Just like me.” He flashes those dimples again, and I don’t know whether to swoon or laugh.

I do both. “So, you’re saying you are the perfect marshmallow?”

He grins. “I guess you’ll have to find out.”

The night air is charged with electricity as our playful banter continues, our laughter and flirtatious exchanges creating an undeniable connection. The campfire’s glow reflects our simmering chemistry, and it’s clear that this wilderness adventure is becoming an unforgettable journey in more ways than one.

And I’m unsure how I want this night to end.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Time to take a risk and find out if Alex's skills are as outstanding inside the tent as they are in the great outdoors. Turn to this page.

Not ready to turn up the heat. Offer Alex a tender goodnight kiss and retreat to the tent alone. Turn to this page.

Chapter8

Alex

MOONLIGHT INVITATION

The sensation of the campfire’s warmth on my skin mirrors the heat surging inside me. It’s as though the flames of uncertainty and desire are dancing in unison, casting their flickering glow over my decision.

The other hikers have retreated to their designated tents, leaving Alex and me alone beneath the canopy of twinkling stars. I lean against him. One of his powerful arms is slung over my shoulder, and a soft sigh of contentment escapes my lips.

“This is so nice,” I admit. “I forgot how much I enjoy being outdoors.”

With a gentle touch, his rough and calloused hand glides along my jaw, tilting my head to meet his gaze.

The flames dance and flicker in the darkness, painting fleeting shadows across Alex’s handsome face. I’m drawn nearer to him, unable to resist the magnetic attraction pulling us together.

“I enjoy spending time with you,” he whispers, his hazel eyes locked onto mine with an ardent intensity. “And I want to see where this connection between us leads.”

“I want that too,” I admit.

He kisses me, and it’s as if time stands still. It’s a gentle exploration at first, our lips brushing softly, testing the waters. But as our kiss deepens, passion ignites, and our mouths meld together in a fervent discovery.

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