Falling for the Rescuer: #2 (Where Sage Meets Sky Series)

Wild Sage Kitchen was quiet for a Sunday morning, which Ash knew was entirely Kody's doing. She'd arranged a secluded corner table, understated but perfect - fresh wildflowers, mountain views, and enough privacy for real conversation. Ash's heart pounded faster in sweet anticipation of seeing the beautiful woman who had rescued her again.

Sarah arrived looking slightly windblown, having just finished a dawn rescue training session. She wore her SAR jacket over civilian clothes, her dark braid still damp from morning mist, and something about seeing her like this - half-rescuer, half-regular person - made Ash's heart skip.

"Sorry I'm not more presentable," Sarah said, settling into her chair. "Training ran long - had a new team member who needed extra help with rope systems."

"You look perfect," Ash replied without thinking, then blushed. "I mean..."

Sarah's smile was warm as rescue blankets. "I know what you mean."

Kody appeared with coffee and her famous cornmeal biscuits, giving Ash a subtle thumbs up before disappearing. The coffee, Ash knew, was Mattie's special "Mountain Romance" blend, created specifically for new couples.

"So tell me about this morning's training," Ash said, genuinely curious. She'd spent half the night reading about rescue techniques, wanting to understand Sarah's world better.

Sarah's eyes lit up as she described the session - the technical challenges, the team dynamics, the satisfaction of helping someone master a difficult skill. Her hands moved expressively as she talked, occasionally demonstrating knots with her napkin.

"Sorry," she caught herself. "I can...