by Claire Angel
Hot Mountain Daddy
A MOUNTAIN MAN ROMANCE
BY
Claire Angel
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Copyright © 2018 by Claire Angel
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.
This is a work of fiction. While, as in all fiction, the literary perceptions and insights are based on life experiences and conclusions drawn from research, all names, characters, places and specific instances are products of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously. No actual reference to any real person, living or dead, is intended or inferred.
HOT MOUNTAIN DADDY: A MOUNTAIN MAN ROMANCE
Table of Content
HOT MOUNTAIN DADDY: A MOUNTAIN MAN ROMANCE
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
EPILOGUE
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Blurb
I never found this with anybody and living in a small town limited exposure to new people. Could one trip to one of the most beautiful spots in Montana change all of that?
The rugged mountain of a man drew me in even with the faults in his personality.
He was impatient and bossy.
He was a big man, a true gorgeous mountain man; muscular and definitely a little rough around the edges.
The night we were supposed to go out for dinner we never left.
I fought it but one night we both gave into the attraction.
And a week of pure pleasure started which I’d never forget.
It was also an introduction to the meaningful parts of his life.
Was this just for fun or was it something that could grow?
Would it end one day, and we would both move on?
*****
HOT MOUNTAIN DADDY: A MOUNTAIN MAN ROMANCE
Chapter 1
Brianne
I glanced at my best friend across the table over lunch, seeing her huge smile. “What?” I asked as she nodded.
“Oh, my God, Brianne. I’m so happy!”
I knew it wouldn’t take long for her to get pregnant once she married Colton. They were madly in love and perfect for one another.
“I waited to tell you as long as I could stand it. I am waiting for the twelve-week-mark to tell everyone, but I needed to tell you.” She was glowing like women were supposed to, despite the fact that she wasn’t showing yet.
I had to admit that I was a little bummed out. I’d been planning a fall trip to Glacier Park in a couple of weeks to see the leaves and the gorgeous water.
I was going to ask her and Colton to go.
“I’m so happy for you both. I guess this means no hiking in the mountains?” I asked as she gave me an apologetic look.
“I’m sorry. It’s all about timing.”
I knew they’d been trying for a few months so I couldn’t be angry with her. I’d just change the trip to one and go for a week over a long weekend. Glacier Park was a six-hour drive for me.
I’d make the most of it. Besides, I’d recently broken up with my boyfriend Keith after he decided he wanted to work things out with his ex.
“It’s okay. I can make it a solo trip for a change of scenery. I can call and ask to change the tour. I never travel so a little excitement wouldn’t hurt me.”
Hallie nodded, and I smiled at her.
We enjoyed lunch before I went back to work at the law firm, smiling at the attorney that I was an assistant for. Miles was an older man that worked in medical malpractice cases and had a stellar record.
“How was lunch, Brianne?” He asked through his open door as I set my purse into the drawer at the bottom of my desk.
“Good,” I replied, knowing that I needed to keep the pregnancy under wraps. News traveled fast in this tiny town and I respected the fact that she wanted to wait to tell people. “Is Mr. Daniels still coming in this afternoon?”
“He is. I am going to grab a quick bite before then because I will not be leaving my office.” I smiled knowingly at him as I drew my hand over my long blonde hair.
Mr. Daniels was a well-known client who was always suing doctors. I knew that he was getting older and any companionship was welcomed since his wife died. Miles was always placating him and would listen to what he had to say. It was always frivolous suits without any merit. Miles would carefully explain that there wasn’t a case and then send him on his way until the next time.
“I’ll keep an eye on things. Enjoy,” I said sitting down at my desk to get things organized for the rest of the afternoon.
Miles walked out, and I turned my computer on to check the email for anything that needed attention. I had a few minutes of a break and went to the tour site that I’d booked my trip through. I adjusted the plans since it was still early enough not to lose what I’d paid, asking for a four-day tour of the park.
I had a cute little inn booked for my room but every place worth seeing was a drive or a hike away. It might be fall but the weather could be so sketchy up there. I couldn’t hop in a car at the airport and just drive there. Once the confirmation was sent to me, I smiled. It was going to be different than planned but I’d love it. I needed a break.
I was working on a few documents for Miles when he arrived back, sipping a soda from the local diner. He walked into his office and I hummed the song that was playing over my computer speakers.
Mr. Daniels showed up and they talked behind closed doors.
I shook my head as I imagined Hallie becoming a mom. It was wild, but I knew their babies would be gorgeous and loved as much as any kid could be. I wondered if I’d get there given the small town. I had a decent feeling about Keith at first, but it fizzled fast. Not too many men came here that I didn’t know.
Hallie got the last of the good ones. She was one lucky bitch.
I finished my day and went back to my cottage. I fixed a chicken salad for dinner and sat on the couch to watch TV as I sipped a glass of wine.
This was my daily routine unless I went to have dinner with friends or my parents. Still, I never regretted staying in Chester. I enjoyed the quiet, but I was looking forward to a getaway. I needed to shake things up a bit even if I was going alone. There would be a tour group with me and we could chat during the trip. I’d have my privacy at night with my own thoughts about my uncertain future.
The room was gorgeous at the inn. It had a jetted tub and fireplace with a comfortable king-sized bed. I couldn’t wai
t to enjoy all the amenities while I enjoyed an adventure that would be memorable.
I left work on my last day before my two weeks off, smiling at Miles as he told me to have a great time. He’d suggested Glacier Park since he took his family there for a local vacation and they loved it.
I headed to my car and hopped in with a grin as I started the engine. Hallie was taking me to the airport in the morning with Colton. I’d be back in a week. I was excited for something new to happen and wondered if I might find myself a rugged mountain man to play with during the week.
The idea made my heart skip a beat.
I pulled up a book to listen to on my phone and opened my window for the short ride.
Chapter 2
Mark
I got out of the shower and poured a strong cup of coffee still wrapped in a towel.
My cabin had some heat from last night’s fire and I was comfortable for now.
I ran a hand through my thick, tousled dark hair and closed my eyes as I thought about Lindsay. My daughter was four and the sweetest little girl out there and I planned to go and see her in a few days. I had a couple tours to do in the park and then I’d go stay at Mom’s and visit her. Lindsay stayed with Mom since my wife left both of us for another man over a year ago.
I had this job and helped run the tour company. I was Trey’s friend and the one that always saved him when he got into trouble. I loved the job and the remote wilderness that surrounded me but as a single father, I needed help with my daughter and Mom stepped up to help. They were so close and I knew that my most precious miracle was safe and loved.
I got dressed in thick jeans and slipped on a t-shirt with a red and black flannel before I walked into the small living room of the house. I was just slipping my boots on when my cell phone rang in my pocket. I groaned, knowing that few people called me and Trey was one of them. I pulled it out and looked at the screen before answering it. “Good morning.”
“Hey, Mark. I need a favor.” I groaned.
“What? I’m headed in to plan some tours for you before I go see Lindsay.” I was irritated, knowing that he was going to change my plans.
“Nate has the flu and can’t do the pick-up today. He needs someone to cover at least part of his tour and you’re the best driver I have,” Trey told me as I looked at the photo of the blonde girl smiling at me from the mantel. “Please, Mark. I’m in a bind,” He begged and I knew that I was going to give in.
Trey ran more of the inner office than he did the actual tours and I ended up handling any coverage. He was the business guy that handled the finances while I preferred to be outside in the wild.
“I’ll do it, but he better not stick me with the whole day. You know I have plans.” I was firm and Trey thanked me. “Get me the usual room at The Glacier Inn.”
“You got it,” He replied as I heard him typing on his laptop.
“When does the flight come in?” I asked as I finished tying my boots.
The first day was usually pretty easy. I’d pick up and get the guests to the inn, depending on what they wanted to do. Most would want to shop in the town and see some sights before we planned on a walk in the park the following day. It was a lot of families and couples that came here.
“Four. Is that good for you?” He asked.
“That works for me. I’ll come in and arrange a few other tours in the meantime. Want some breakfast?” I asked and Trey was never one to turn down the chance to eat.
I walked outside, locking my door and glancing around the wide expanse of trees that I was situated in the middle of. There were a few cabins, but they were separate enough to feel like I had my own space.
It was good to know that we could help one another out if needed. We knew each other’s name and had a friendly hello in the morning.
I headed to my ancient Land Cruiser and started the engine. I breathed in the cold air and it was exhilarating.
I called Mom on the way and explained what happened, telling her that I’d be there as soon as I could. She lived an hour and a half away.
I had little time to make short trips as busy as I was. She was retired and made crafts from the house for some extra cash. I also gave her money to help with Lindsay even as my ex kept trying for spousal support.
We were married for three years before Lindsay came along and she couldn’t stay. Fuck supporting her. Her new boyfriend could handle that, and I’d be a parent. I could ask her for support, but I made good money and didn’t need it. Going after it would be just to get under her skin.
Mom told me that it was fine as she always did. I knew how bad she felt that I was doing this alone and would help as much as she could. I talked to Lindsay as I was pulling into the parking lot about forty-five minutes from home, sitting with the heater on as I promised her that I’d see her soon.
She told me that she loved me and pain filled my chest. I assured her that I loved her more than anything. The split with Nina had really done a number on me and I was still holding onto some bitterness. I ended the call and stared forward as I let the emotions rush through my head.
I tried to keep my home life separate from my work.
I knew that I wasn’t always patient when tourists dragged their feet in the stores or took the same picture a million times.
My eyes were trained on the sky and the weather, which could get rough quickly. I was paid well for their safety and I was good at that. I knew I grumbled sometimes and acted like a jerk, but I tried. Trey cut me a break by letting me arrange tours in the back office so I could decompress. There were times that only led to thinking more.
I was so damn confused sometimes.
I walked into the building and glanced around the small lobby. I pulled the hat from my head and strode to Trey’s office. He was at his desk on his computer.
“Trying to find a woman on that thing? You spend more time with it than you do anyone else.” I joked as he glanced up.
“I do just fine,” He replied, leaning back and sipping coffee. “You know that you could, too.”
“Tell me you’re not talking about Valerie?” I asked, referring to our girl at the front desk.
She was great at her job and even a bit hot, but I considered her off limits. Valerie flirted with me and other men sometimes ruthlessly, but I wasn’t taking the bait. I did that with Nina and got burned badly. It was better to keep my walls up.
“She wants you,” He insisted as I shrugged. “Speak of the devil.”
“Morning, fellas.” Her voice was smooth as I glanced back.
Trey greeted her, and she tossed back her thick caramel hair and gave me a warm smile. “Coffee, Mark?”
“I’m good. Thanks, Val.” I kept my answer short and turned back to Trey.
He chuckled as she left and shook his head as I stared silently at him.
“You have no clue what you do to the women around here, do you?” He asked as I groaned.
“I know what happened with Nina and I’ll pay for that forever. I have more to think about than my next fuck, Trey.” I barked out as he winced. “Jesus. Sorry about that.” I had a short fuse and nobody was immune.
I stood and headed out into the hallway.
“I’m going to get some work done.” I had my own office with a computer that stored everything I needed for upcoming trips.
I worked until I needed to leave, driving straight to the airport in the company SUV. It was big and could comfortably accommodate ten. It handled the weather like a sure-footed goat.
I turned on the radio for the solo drive. I was listening to old country tunes from my childhood. The window was down and I could feel the stress coming off of my shoulders.
We picked up in Great Falls since they had good fares even if it was over a three hour drive each way. The tourists paid a lot of cash for these tours, so we aimed to give them a memorable trip.
Once the car was parked, I grabbed our sign and walked inside to meet the newest group.
Chapter 3
Brian
ne
I opened my eyes as our landing was announced. I’d fallen asleep during the flight, tired from my late night of packing.
I blinked and looked out of the window to see the Montana scenery that I knew and loved.
I gathered my things and pulled my hair into a ponytail as we taxied in on the runway.
I knew that a driver was picking us up to make the long drive to the inn. It was located near the park and would be convenient with stores and such nearby. Heading into the terminal, I went to get my luggage and looked for a sign or something indicating the driver.
I actually lost my breath and stood staring with my tongue dragging on the floor in appreciation of the specimen that was greeting me.
There was a mountain of a man standing with a sign boasting the name Glacier Tour Company in his hands. He had to be over six feet tall with a muscular physique.
I bumped into someone and I proffered a quick apology.
He was hot, and I blushed as I looked for my blue luggage along with a few other people. Once I was finished, I walked over to the man and took him in quietly as he surveyed the crowd. When I’d stopped in front of him with about six other people, I looked around to make sure nobody noticed that I was undressing him with my eyes.
There was a couple around my age, holding hands and smiling as well as an older more experienced couple that looked to be in good shape. They must do this a lot.
The last two were a man and what looked to be his daughter, around eight years old. When I looked forward, I noticed the guide watching them with stormy blue eyes for a fleeting moment before he looked at me, clearing his throat.
“Good Afternoon. I’m Mark Jackson with Glacier Tours and I’ll be taking you to the inn to get checked in for your stay.”
