Blaze

Whoever says money can solve all your problems is a damn liar. It only creates unnecessary headaches and does nothing to erase bitter memories. Deep down, I’m still the same guy I’ve always been. No matter how many zeros are in my bank account. No matter how far I run or how much richer I become. Where I came from will never change.

I’m tired of pretending. It’s why I’ve come back to my hometown. To the simple life, to clearing my mind and finding the balance that’s always just out of reach. No suits, no city living, no cheats and liars, and definitely no complications. But the funny thing is, there’s a situation I wasn’t prepared for. The ranch hand on my best friend’s farm with a shy smile and talented hands. River is easygoing, confident, and carefree, my total opposite. Maybe an unexpected complication is exactly what I need to make things easy again.

Maybe finding my way back to who I truly am is easier if I’m not alone.

River

I don't need much to be happy. I have my job at Broken Horn Ranch, my custom furniture building on the side, and a standing date to dinner with my dad every Friday night. Life doesn’t need excitement or fancy adventures to be fulfilling. Things are completely good just the way they are. There’s no sense toppling my perfectly balanced apple cart.

But I wasn’t expecting the tall, dark, and handsome man who arrived at the ranch on horseback and sent my comfortable, ordinary world spinning. Blaze is the boss’ best friend and a part owner of the ranch. His brilliant smile masks his hidden troubles, and if I had a few pennies to spare for his thoughts, I’d spend every last one.

Maybe I don’t have everything I need after all.

Maybe I need him.