“I love the idea of Rescue having a festival or two.” Brooke’s dark eyes flashed with her enthusiasm. “McNally’s could co-host, and I’d be happy to set it up. Part of my job is finding ways to draw people to the area.”

“I can see how more tourists would benefit the resort,” Gabe agreed.

Brooke put her hand over his and leaned in. “Remember when we went to the jazz festival in Anchorage? Rescue could do something similar.”

Picking up her tray of drinks, Audrey turned away. Deep in her chest, her heart ached. Why should seeing someone touch Gabe hurt so much? Audrey didn’t own him, after all.

Brooke could help him with promoting Rescue. Like Audrey’s ex, Gabe probably wanted an eye-catching girlfriend who was skilled at working with people. Brooke not only had a history with Gabe, but also fit in here in Alaska.

And the woman wasn’t leaving at the end of summer.

Remember, dummy? You’re not staying here. Even though Gabe occasionally mentioned returning to his isolated cabin, she knew he’d stay. Neither the town nor his brothers would let him leave.

Brooke might weigh in, too. After all, the social director would be the perfect complement to the town’s leader.

Audrey wanted to rip the woman’s oh-so-perfect hair out.

Trying not to listen for Gabe’s sexy low laughter, Audrey delivered her orders. The last three drinks went to Tucker, Guzman, and Knox, who’d settled at a table by the door.

She made her voice light and managed a smile. “How is your leg, Tucker?”

“It just needed a day of rest, and I was fine. Next time I tackle uneven ground, I’m taking a hiking stick.”

“That sounds like a plan.” As a roar of laughter came from the bar, she glanced over to see that Brooke was entertaining everyone.

Audrey sighed. She’d never fit in the way Brooke did. Would always be the outsider as well as the Outsider.

Knox had followed her gaze, and his jaw turned rigid. “Don’t let that bimbo bother you. You’re worth a dozen of her.”

Audrey blinked.

During their lessons, she’d gotten the impression he didn’t like her much. “Um.” Her voice came out rough. “Thank you.”

He did like her. She was making friends. She gave them a bigger smile.

Having finally taken a bar stool, Gabe listened as Brooke waxed eloquent about putting on a three-day music festival. Her plans were too elaborate, especially since even a one-day would be a tough sell with some of the townspeople.

But she had good ideas, and the resort’s participation would be beneficial.