“No, she doesn’t have a license yet. Why?”

Hawk bit back his first response—none of your business—and went for honest. “She likes flying.”

Caz opened his mouth. Closed it. “Ah. Then you two have a good day. If Aric gets back before you, one of us will look after him.”

“Thanks.” Hawk didn’t care if his brothers knew he was interested in Kit. Growing up in a tiny cabin meant they’d gotten used to the lack of privacy. However, he did care if they gave Kit any grief.

Caz had manners. Gabe and Bull—they might tease Kit.

They’d learn better. Hawk examined his scarred-up knuckles. Wouldn’t be the first time he’d punched a brother for poking his nose in where it didn’t belong.

Kit held her breath as Hawk made a pass over a high mountain clearing to check the wind.

Below them, several tents were set in a circle. A man sitting beside a big camp stove waved a ladle in a welcome.

Centering the helicopter, Hawk landed them as gently as a falling feather.

She pulled off her headphones. “You are an incredible pilot.”

“When you love something, it’s easy.” His grin flashed for a second. “You garden like I fly.”

The compliment set up a happy glow inside her, especially since it was true. She really did have a green thumb. And he’d noticed.

Smiling, she jumped out, delighted that nothing hurt any longer. Her ribs and healing incision were fine. Although her arm ached occasionally and wasn’t as strong as her left, it was improving.

Life was good.

She drew in a long, slow breath of crisp, cold air scented with evergreen.

“Woohoo! The supplies!” Five men burst out of the forest and converged on the helicopter. As the guys greeted Hawk, he started handing out boxes.

Kit took a step forward to help with the carrying. But…all those men. Her heart started to thud within her ribcage. As her palms turned clammy, she rubbed them on her jeans.

How about a nice stroll, staying in sight? She glanced back at the helicopter and realized Hawk was watching her.

He tilted his head in an obvious query. Are you all right?

She nodded and managed a smile.

For the next few minutes, she strolled around, staying in sight, yet at a distance from any of the men. Now and then, she’d stop to simply enjoy the beauty of the mountain scene. Aside from the men talking, the world was incredibly quiet.

After unloading was complete, the man who was cooking wandered over to exchange handshakes with Hawk before returning to the camp stove.

On Kit’s next circuit, she saw the guys showing Hawk the mess the bear had made. They’d hung their food packs from a tree limb, but bears could apparently climb when given the right incentive. Who knew?