Take a Mountain Man Home for Christmas: A Mountain Man Romance Christmas Collection

by Crowne, K. C.

  Emily

  The methodical sound of the roaring engines lulled me into a light sleep. Popping in my ear brought me back as the plane began its slow descent. I reached into my purse for a piece of gum. I always had trouble with my ears during a flight.

  Chewing the gum, I concentrated on swallowing the tangy juice until my ears began to feel normal again. I glanced out the window, hoping to get a glimpse of the city lights but could only see raindrops as they slowly journeyed down the foggy pane. I wiped at the fog with my shirtsleeve and peered through the rain, trying to get a look at the fast-approaching city of Las Vegas.

  I hope the weather clears up for the convention, I thought. I’d never been to Las Vegas, and this was my chance to have some fun for a change. As well as learn a thing or two about starting my own business.

  At the thought of starting a business, a vision of my parents popped into my mind. I’d been trying to forget about them as well as the episode that took place right before I jumped into the cab earlier that afternoon. My parents had gotten wind of me heading to Las Vegas for the weekend. Instead of calling as normal parents would, they took it upon themselves to show up at my house and express their disapproval in person.

  “Emily, you’re already in debt,” my father reminded me. “This trip is a complete waste of time and money. “

  “I know I’m in debt, Dad. Thanks for the reminder,” I sighed.

  “You should be happy with what you have, my mom commented. “A good job as a massage therapist in an up and coming practice.” She shook her head at me. “Especially after that awful mess you got yourself into.”

  My dad nodded at her in agreement. “This is no time to run off to Las Vegas in hopes of starting a business you can’t afford. Stay with what you know,” Dad said, red-faced.

  “Think of Chloe,” my mother said firmly.

  The mention of my daughter made me angry. “I’m trying to give my baby a better life! And if you two would just support me and have some faith in me, I would have an easier time accomplishing my goals,” I blurted.

  “Your goals?” Mother asked sarcastically. “Your goals aren’t realistic, dear. You have no experience in running a business, let alone starting one,” she reminded me coldly.

  “The business world is no place for a soft person,” my dad added.

  “Yes, honey, we’re only looking out for your best interest. Your father knows what he’s talking about. He’s been in investment banking for twenty years, don’t forget.” Now her tone was soothing, manipulative. Mom was so kind to remind me.

  “It’s a dog eat dog world out there,” Dad grunted as he straightened his tie.

  Tears stung my eyes and threatened to humiliate me. “Dad is in corporate business. I want to open a massage therapy spa. They are not the same! And how will I know if I don’t try?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

  “We’ve supported you through massage therapy school. Truthfully, we didn’t think you’d make it through that. We’re happy you did and are good at it,” Mother commented, her bitchiness epic. “But there is no way we’re going to throw away our good money on a business you know nothing about.”

  “That’s what this convention is for,” I tried to reason with them. “The annual Business Inc. Conference in Las Vegas is an outlet for entrepreneurs to learn from and mingle with over 500 industry leaders.”

  “Hmph,” Dad harrumphed. “You are no entrepreneur. It’s a waste of time. And money,” he repeated, stressing the word money. “Where are you getting the money to go on this trip?”

  I took a deep breath and looked at Kellan, my older brother, for some help. He’d lent me the money to go on the trip. Only Kellan believed in me these days. To my relief, he spoke up.

  “It won’t hurt for Emily to attend the conference and to learn a thing or two. Plus, she’s been working close to fifty hours a week. It’ll be good for her to get out of town for a spell.”

  My parents looked at Kellan as if he’d grown a third arm. “It’s a waste of your hard-earned money,” my mom told him.

  “I don’t see it that way,” he answered. “Emily has the right to try and accomplish her dream, and I’m glad to help.”

  My parents hated to be disagreed with Kellan. I was lucky to have such a wonderful, supportive brother.

  “You will learn one day,” Dad said to Kellan before turning around and stomping to his town car. My mom leaned down and kissed Chloe on the cheek before she followed him, not bothering to say goodbye to me.

  My chest quivered, and I turned to wipe at the tears in my eyes. I didn’t want Chloe to see me cry because of my parents. I was glad when the cab I’d been waiting on pulled up to the curb. Taking a deep breath, I leaned down and gave Chloe a goodbye kiss and hug.

  “Be good for Uncle Kellan,” I told her.

  “I will, Mom,” she said in her singsong voice. I smiled at her and hugged her close. “Mommyyyyyy,” she whined playfully.

  “I’m gonna miss you,” I told her.

  “Miss you too, Mommy. Love you.”

  “I love you too, baby girl.”

  Standing on my tippy toes, I wrapped my arms around Kellan’s broad shoulders. “Take good care of my baby,” I whispered in his ear.

  “Always,” he whispered back.

  I stepped back and took a long look at my baby before motioning to the cab driver to open the trunk. He climbed out and helped me load my luggage.

  “I’ll call when I get to the hotel,” I told them.

  “Go. And try and have a good time. No, don’t try… Have a good time. We’ll be fine,” Kellan promised me as he took Chloe’s hand and led her to his two-story duplex.

  I smiled at them as they walked down the walkway. Chloe looked back and lifted her small hand in a farewell. I raised my hand, blinking back tears. I turned just in time to see my parents’ black town car drive by. I nodded curtly to them as they drove off. I will prove them wrong, I thought.

  My parents had a knack for ruining my day. I’d been so excited about this trip. I’d been working non-stop, saving money so I could one day start my own massage therapy practice. It had always been a dream of mine to own my own practice or even a spa. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances had gotten in the way and put me in debt and traveling down the wrong path. But I was ready to rectify the past, put my skeletons in the closet, and prove to myself that I could do it.

  The sparkling lights of Las Vegas came into view as the plane circled the city, making its full descent toward McCarran International Airport.

  “Wow!” I whispered at the bright lights. Not even a rainstorm could hide them! The excitement I’d been feeling since I booked my spot at the Business Inc. Conference came rushing back to me. The plane continued on to the airport, and I buckled my seatbelt for the landing.

  The plane landed without incident, and I quickly claimed my luggage. With my carry-on bag strapped over my shoulder, I rolled my suitcase to the front entrance. The rain hadn’t let up, I saw to my dismay, and I didn’t have an umbrella. Sighing, I looked out the big windows of the airport as all the cabs filled with passengers and sped off.

  Now what? I had no experience in hailing a cab. Not that there was one left. I was hoping I would be able to find one just hanging around outside the main entrance. Think, Emily. Maybe I should ask someone.

  I looked around the airport for a help desk. I didn’t see one but knew all airports had one somewhere, usually near the entrance. The airport was busy, and being Las Vegas, that was understandable. I started to ask a couple of passers-by, but they didn’t pay any attention to me. Everyone’s in such a hurry, I mused. I wondered if I should call an Uber? As more people rushed by me and out the wide sliding doors, I decided that would be my best bet.

  I reached for my cell phone in my jacket pocket and opened the Uber app. I’d only used it a couple of times and was trying to figure it out. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a Yellow Cab pull up in front of the building. To my surprise, no one jumped in
side or rushed toward it.

  This is my chance, I thought. I grabbed my rolling luggage and tugged it behind me as I trotted out the doors toward the cab. The small wheels bounced on the concrete, and I thought for sure they would bust. I approached the cab and reached for the door handle. Before I could grab it, a tall, well-built man dressed in a dark suit cut in front of me so if I hadn’t jumped back, he would have plowed right into me. He completely ignored me, even after I loudly cleared my throat, and he opened the cab door for himself.

  I gasped aloud. “Excuse me!” I didn’t mean to yell so loud, but I was pissed. He paused. I knew he had to hear me; I was pretty sure the entire airport heard me based on all the turned heads. Slowly, the man turned to look at who had made the shocking sound.

  He put his bag over his head to avoid the rain. Brilliant blue eyes locked onto my own. I tried to read his expression. Brilliant ─ and unsympathetic. I held his gaze even though the man was intimidating, over six feet with broad shoulders and well-muscled arms and legs.

  His eyes on mine, he asked, “Oh, I’m sorry, was this your cab?”

  As if he didn’t know. “Yes,” I replied, standing tall. A raindrop fell into my eye. Temporarily blinded, I blinked hard. Oh no, I hope he didn’t think I was winking at him. I saw a look of surprise cross his face, but he quickly recovered.

  Even through the blurriness of a wet eyeball, I couldn’t help noticing that the man in the suit was extremely handsome. No, not handsome. Hot as hell. I started to fidget. Stop it, I told myself. Stand tall. To my surprise, my body listened. I glared at the hot cab thief. I didn’t want him to catch on that I was completely out of my element at the moment.

  The man’s bright blue eyes squinted at me. Small crows’ feet appeared at the corners of his eyes that made him look even sexier. He wasn’t squinting in confusion. Not like, “Oh, I didn’t see you there. I’m sorry, here you go,” as he holds out the door for me. Nope. He was clearly amused at my outburst.

  Suddenly, he grinned an incredibly sexy grin. I almost melted into a puddle.

  “We can share?” the hot man asked as he opened the door. As if he knew I was going to agree, he waved me into the cab.

  What a smug bastard!

  The cab driver saw us both standing in the open doorway. I saw his eyes travel to my luggage, and he climbed out of the cab to offer assistance. He looked from me to Mr. Smug and asked, “Are we sharing a ride?” He stressed the word are.

  “Yes,” Mr. Smug answered for me.

  My eyes widened. I looked from the cab driver to the man. The nerve he has! But what else was I going to do? As much as I wanted to, I couldn’t refuse the cab. There were no other cabs waiting for a passenger.

  “Yes,” I agreed a little too loudly, allowing the cabbie to take my luggage and place it in the trunk.

  “After you,” Mr. Smug grinned and waved his arm for me to get inside for a second time. I didn’t move. He held out his hand toward the back seat of the cab, and raised his eyebrow as if to ask, what is the delay? I just stared at him. I couldn’t take my eyes from his. Now he smiled ─ a big smile with perfectly white teeth beamed behind a dark, well-trimmed five o’clock shadow.

  Our gazes held. I wanted him to the idea of my displeasure with him. But he just grinned broadly at me. Mr. Smug was amused with me. Did he forget that he just tried to steal my cab? It made me angry, and my cheeks heated. I was just about to blurt something smart when the cab driver laid on the horn.

  Instead of telling the man off, I jumped to the heavens. My hand went instinctively to my chest. Mr. Smug burst into laughter. He laughed a long, hearty laugh, his blue eyes welling with tears. He put his hand on his belly as he laughed as if he’d just heard the joke of the year.

  “I don’t see what’s so funny,” I retorted as I climbed into the cab and slid over.

  He promptly got inside beside me. Wiping the tears from his eyes, he was still giggling. He wasn’t even trying to control it.

  “Nothing’s funny,” he said to my glaring stare. “I’m sorry. I had a long flight,” he smiled.

  So did I. That didn’t turn me into a complete ass. The cab driver asked where we were headed, and to my dismay, he and I spoke simultaneously. “Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel.”

  Shit! Really? Mr. Smug looked at me and winked. I glared at him.

  We drove in silence, and when we reached the hotel, Mr. Smug grabbed his overnight bag and got out of the cab, leaving the door open for me to get out. I exited slowly and waited for the cab driver to get my suitcase out of the trunk.

  The guy winked again and tossed a wave over his shoulder as I watched him briskly walk away. He reached the hotel entrance with only a few long strides. Why am I watching him?

  Because he has a nice ass. I couldn’t take my eyes off his manly behind. His ass filled out his dress pants perfectly ─ his round buttocks bulged as he took each step. I felt momentary disappointment when a concierge opened the door for him. They nodded to each other, and he walked through the large doorway, disappearing inside.

  I needed a moment to settle down. I tried to look around at all the lights and people, but the busy scene only added to my nerves. I took my time to position my carry-on bag over my shoulder and slowly extended my suitcase handle. I took several deep breaths.

  It was time to start enjoying myself.

  I walked slowly as I pulled my suitcase behind me. The wheels heaved over the pavement, and the luggage tugged at my hand as I meandered toward the hotel doorway. Note to self, buy better luggage for my next trip. My next trip? Whenever that would be.

  I hoped Mr. Smug had a fast and successful check-in so I could avoid him going forward. I’d had enough of him. All I wanted to do was get to my room and change out of my damp clothes. Maybe have a nightcap to relieve some stress of the day.

  The concierge, decked out in black and red, greeted me with a friendly smile and opened the door. I returned his smile and stepped inside the grand hotel lobby. I gasped loudly at the scene around me and suddenly felt foolish. Jesus Emily, act like you’ve been out in public before.

  I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful and elegant décor. Tall, dark wooden pillars led the way to the common area, which glowed in golds and reds. Small marble tables were scattered around the room surrounded by brown leather couches. I heard laughter and saw a softly lit lounge off to the right. I’ll have to visit later, I thought.

  I leisurely made it to the front desk and was happy my cab partner was nowhere in sight. I checked in easily, and an attendant asked if I needed help with my luggage. I told her I could manage and headed to the elevator.

  Even the elevator was elegant with creamy marble, golden doors, and glowing buttons. I selected the button for the twenty-second floor and enjoyed the ride up alone.

  I made it to my room and slid in the key card. Opening the door, again, I was pleased with the room’s décor. Elegant but homey and comfortable. A white, fluffy comforter and pillows like clouds covered my bed. There was a large window with the drapes drawn. Las Vegas twinkled through the pane. Perfect. I hadn’t been in a hotel room in a long time. Not since my ex had taken me on a business trip. I missed the elegance and fuss of hotel staff waiting on me, but not the costs of such luxury. I would have to be double sure to enjoy this weekend.

  I took my suitcase to the bed and unzipped it. I removed my two best dresses I’d brought for the events this weekend and hung them in the closet. I had a few more casual dresses, jeans, tops, and several pairs of shoes to unpack. I put my toiletries in the bathroom and marveled over the jet bathtub for a moment.

  I was starving. I hadn’t eaten since that morning with only a small snack on the plane. I needed to call Kellan and check in, but I decided to go down to the lounge and order something to eat and have a drink before I called. Kellan was a night owl, so I wouldn’t wake him if I waited.

  I changed out of my damp, rumpled travel clothes and put on jeans and a sweater. Looking into the mirror, I realized I looked too pla
in for a place like this and decided to change. I chose one of my sundresses ─ a white and yellow floral with spaghetti straps that hugged my slim curves perfectly. I draped a creamy-white shawl over my shoulders.

  Now about this hair! I thought. My yellow-blond hair had mostly dried flat against my head. I brushed a comb through the long layers and fluffed out the curls at the bottom. I added some powder to my oval-shaped face and defined jawline. With a light blushing to my round cheekbones and a stroke of dark mascara to my almond-shaped, blue-grey eyes, I felt upbeat and happy again. I checked my look in the mirror. Perfect.

  Smiling, I headed out the door and down to the lobby.

  Harley

  I settled into my room and turned on the TV. Nothing but news. I hit the guide to find a movie, but I found nothing of interest and threw the remote down on the bed. I looked at the clock. It was only ten, much too early to go to bed, especially in Vegas. A beer sounded good. I replaced my shorts with a pair of jeans and smoothed my black t-shirt. Good enough for the lounge.

  I was in awe at the hotel’s architect and décor. I’d never been somewhere so fancy. My resort was five-star, but a five-star mountain ski resort was a far cry from an expensive Las Vegas hotel.

  In the lounge, I chose a seat at the end of the bar away from the other patrons. Everyone was in groups and being loud and rambunctious. I didn’t blame them, but I wanted some peace and quiet. Or maybe I was overly accustomed to peace and quiet. I’m in Las Vegas, for Heaven’s sake!

  Tomorrow. Tomorrow I’d go out on the town a bit and see some sights.

  Laughter at the other end of the bar caught my attention over the raucous noise. A singsong voice was having a one-way conversation, intriguing me, and I leaned forward to get a better view. Laughing to myself, I recognized the woman from the cab. I knew she was staying in the same hotel, but this was a big hotel, and I hadn’t expected to see her again.