Page 26 of Trusting the Grumpy Mountain Man
This isn't just attraction anymore. That I could handle. This is something deeper, more dangerous. Something I haven't felt in longer than I care to remember.
Mason's truck pulls up as I'm loading equipment onto the ATV. The therapist hops out, coffee thermos in hand as always.
"Morning, Jax." He approaches with his easy stride. "How's our newest group progressing?"
"Faster than expected." I secure a coil of rope to the rack. "Jesse's showing real leadership. Even Kevin's finding his place."
"And our social services evaluator?" Mason sips his coffee, eyes knowing over the rim. "How's that situation?"
I straighten, giving him a level look. "What situation?"
"Small program. Small town." He shrugs. "Word travels when an evaluator extends her stay for non-professional reasons."
"You writing a gossip column now?" I continue loading gear, avoiding his gaze.
"Just checking you know what you're doing." His tone shifts from teasing to serious. "This program means a lot to a lot of kids, Jax."
The implication is clear. If Riley's report goes south, kids lose opportunities. Kids like the six currently preparing for today's lesson. Kids like the dozens who've passed through these woods and emerged stronger.
"She sees the value in what we do," I say finally. "The report will reflect that."
"You sure your personal involvement isn't clouding your judgment?" Mason asks quietly.
The question hits a nerve. "She's not like that."
"Everyone has obligations. Superiors. Career considerations."
"I know." I secure the last piece of equipment with more force than necessary. "I'm not an idiot, Mason."
"Never said you were." He raises a placating hand. "Just making sure you're thinking with the right head."
"Go teach some algebra," I growl, no real heat behind it.
He laughs, heading toward the mess cabin where academic sessions take place. "See you at lunch."
His words echo in my mind as I finish preparations. Am I being naive? Trusting Riley based on physical connection rather than evidence? But that's not all this is. I've seen her with the kids. Watched her truly evaluate the program on its merits rather than its paperwork.
Still, Mason's concern isn't unfounded. This program survives on judicial discretion and documented results. One negative report could end everything we've built.
I'm still mulling this over when I return to the admin cabin. Inside, Riley sits at my desk, tablet in hand, brow furrowed in concentration. She's so engrossed, she doesn't notice me until I close the door.
"Productive hour?" she asks, looking up with a smile that eases my concerns.
"Kids are prepped for team challenges. Mason's here for academics." I cross to her, unable to resist pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "How's the report coming?"
"Complicated." She gestures to her notes. "The program violates at least seventeen regulatory standards. But the outcomes are undeniable."
"So what happens now?" I pull up a chair beside her.
"I document both." She turns to face me fully. "List the violations alongside recommended modifications. Note the successful outcomes and methodologies. Let the department decide how to proceed."
"Sounds reasonable." I study her face, searching for any sign of the career-driven bureaucrat I first met. "Will your supervisor see it that way?"
She hesitates, confirming my suspicions. "Margaret wants grounds for termination. She made that clear."
"And you're going against her wishes." It's not a question.
"I'm doing my job properly." Her chin lifts in that stubborn way I've come to adore. "The program needs modifications to meet minimum safety standards, but it deserves to continue."
