As Gabe moved to stand along the right wall, he spotted Julie in the back row beside Regina.

If it came to watching her or the speaker, he knew which he’d choose…so he stopped where he could watch her profile. He hadn’t seen anything so pretty in a long, long while.

Her hair was damp from a shower and forming springy waves as it dried. Freckles sprinkled her nose and sunburned cheeks.

He also noticed that whenever someone shouted, she flinched.

Dammit, he wanted to help. When would she realize that?

Seated with Tucker on the anti-business side, Guzman rose and pointed to the council table. “Did you see all the new businesses? You’re turning this place into some damn tourist trap.”

“Now, Guzman,” Uriah said, then stopped as if unsure what to say.

Near the front of the room, Bull rose and faced the back-to-the-lander. “What businesses make this place a tourist trap? Is my bar a problem? I noticed you’ve been enjoying the beer.”

The crowd laughed—and Guzman had a rueful grin.

Bull continued, “Have you noticed the new art gallery also has a crafts section for people who like to make things? I don’t know about you, but I get bored in the winter. You can even pick up an embroidery hoop and pattern to keep your wife from murdering you before winter solstice.”

People exchanged looks. Anything to relieve the long, dark winters was welcome.

“If you’re skilled with your hands, you might find a way to bring in a few extra bucks. The store only sells Alaska made crafts and artwork.”

A hum of interest ran through the room.

Bull folded his arms across his chest. “The hotel at McNally’s Resort is pricy and not every skier can afford to stay there. We’re going to have bed and breakfast places. One place at the end of town will open in two weeks. More people in town means there will be enough customers to support a pizza place. Happens I love pizza, so I’m happy someone wants to start that business.”

Interested comments ran through the room. Bull wasn’t the only person who liked pizza.

Bull smiled. “A woman wants to open a video rental next to Dante’s, and I’m good with that because I don’t like those empty buildings. They look creepy as all get out.”

Before Bull could go on, the rising noise cut him short.

Alaskans had no problem expressing their opinions…loudly.

The councilor wearing business attire tried to talk above the crowd. “We’re not planning drastic changes, and we want to keep a small-town atmosphere. No box stores or franchises will be given a license.”

That got a roar of approval from both sides, and Gabe almost grinned. Rescue residents could be a pain in the ass, but they got involved. That was impressive.