The Man from Montana by Julianna Morris

Author:Julianna Morris
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2021-04-14T18:59:58+00:00

* * *

CLAY DIDN’T SEE a hint of “I told you so” in Tessa’s face, something she might have felt justified in saying.

Finding the dog was unexpected, but plainly it hadn’t been as improbable as he’d assumed. Or perhaps Tessa had an instinct for lost animals, the way he seemed to have one for lost hikers. Life had its mysteries and he was willing to give credit where credit was due; she’d refused to give up on Skeeter, and now they’d found him.

While her hair had been bound back in a French braid, it was loosening, gleaming with soft glints of gold in the low forest light. He desperately wanted to kiss her again, but it would be a mistake of colossal proportions.

Clay tore his attention from her and took out the topographical map to consult, along with his compass.

“We might have to spend another night out here,” he said, trying to sound unaffected. “Skeeter may not be able to travel quickly and I want to give him time to get calories into his system before we start.”

“That’s okay. Will we return to the Ghost Ridge Trail?”

“I don’t think so.” Clay showed her the map and pointed to a spot. “We’re located right about here, which is roughly an equal distance between two trails. If we head south and west, we’ll meet up with this one, which is a shorter hike out to a trailhead than if we go by Ghost Ridge.”

Her finger traced the line on the map. “The terrain looks less demanding, too, which would be better for Skeeter.” Tessa bent and gave the black Lab a hug.

“I think you’re already in love with that dog,” Clay said in a dry voice. “Don’t forget he belongs to Aiden.”

“I know he isn’t mine, I’m just reassuring Skeeter that he’s all right. He seems less distressed. Do you think he could have more food?”

“It should be okay. He’s obviously healthy and wasn’t out here long enough to go into starvation mode.”

Clay gave the dog another small meal, wishing he could explain to him that they weren’t being stingy, just making sure he wouldn’t get sick from having too much in his stomach at once. There was plenty of food for both Molly and Skeeter, even if they spent another night. In fact, Skeeter was doing so well, the two dogs were starting to romp around together.

Tessa laughed as she watched and desire hit Clay again. She was beautiful and filled with spirit. Despite everything he was intrigued by her, but the circumstances were even more complicated than when he’d thought she was a seasonal employee who didn’t plan on staying permanently in Montana.

“We should get going,” he said. “By crossing to the other trail, we might be able to reach the trailhead by late afternoon.”

“Okay.”

They put on their packs and set out with Molly and Skeeter, both on leashes. Skeeter looked perkier by the minute and gobbled down the high-calorie treats he received periodically. Molly accepted the treats, as well, but did the same as before, giving half to the other dog, who licked her face in appreciation.

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