Page 2 of My Forbidden Mountain Man

Nothing ever comes my way for free; there’salwaysa price to pay. Kindness is always conditional.

“You look like you need it, sweetie.” Her kindness comes with the brutal truth. The one I already know, but most people aren’t brave enough to say it out loud. “You’re also not the first one to come into my business looking lost.”

The craving is too much, and I’m downing a mouthful before remembering to thank her. If this is her business, then she could also kick me out if I insult her in return.

Honestly, she looks too sweet and nice to insult.

“Just trying to find a ride.” My thumb brushes the cup, and the tension in my shoulders melts away. “Got any advice for someone who needs to get on the mountain?”

Julie’s smile only stretches, and I can’t even be surprised that she nods. If she’s willing to give out liquid gold like this for free, I’m willing to bet she has all the answers a woman in my situation can ask for.

“Go to the mountain rescue headquarters. They offer rides forfree.”Choosing the words she already knows I want to hear, she looks out toward the glass panes like she can see the building itself through all of the other businesses surrounding the streets. “The last thing they want is for you to go up there by yourself and get hurt.”

Hell yeah. Okay, my luck is finally turning around.

Julie also mentions asking for Sawyer. Apparently, she’s married to a guy who manages the place.

“He’s used to me sending people his way, so don’t stress. He’s happy to help. All you have to do is find a way over there. Can’t be more than a twenty-minute walk at most.”

I can do that.

Thanking her again, I watch as she drifts over to check in on the other customers, asking them about their drinks and giving them the same warm smile.

Maybe Fairland has improved more than just the businesses. There might be a few good people here, too.

If Jeremy hadn’t been an asshole and kept my share of our earnings before kicking me to the curb, I’d have enough money to buy a bunch of the delicious sweets in the display cabinet, and treat everyone here to a drink.

Next time. Call it an IOU.

Appreciating the delicious black coffee for what it is, I let my phone charge long enough to pull up the directions to the headquarters.

Lingering long enough to ensure I have enough battery to play it safe, my empty cup bounces against the rim of the trash before sinking to the bottom.

“Have a nice day!” A chorus of goodbyes makes me feel a little lighter as I make my way out.

The walk to the headquarters is the same as the walk to the coffee shop. Lots of strange stares and lifted brows.

I suppose if I were the face of my ex-band, I’d have to worry about being recognized. But hey, Jeremy made it pretty fucking clear.

Lead guitarist is just a title. Anyone can do it. That’s why it wassoeasy to replace me.

Sighing softly, I kick a rock in my path on the sidewalk hard enough to watch it bounce twice into the road, soon getting crushed beneath a passing car’s tire.

When I make it to the headquarters, all I have to do is breathe Julia’s name, and the guy running the place comessprinting. Even better, he’s happy to help if it means making his wife happy.

I’ve got to say, it’s a sight for sore eyes. Makes me a little jealous.

There was once upon a time I wanted something like that. A relationship that ended with a cute, happy ever after. Before Igot thrust into the real world. Once I got a good reality check, I accepted that true love doesn’t happen often.

I try not to let my unlucky hand at love sour my mood. Instead, I give Sawyer the address where I need to be dropped off.

For a moment, he looks surprised. Like the cabin I’m hoping to stay at is nonexistent.

Shit. I didn’t even consider that.

If Logan isn’t up here…

I shake my head, as if the idea will fly right out.

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