I've longed to hear the words of love from a good man. A dependable man. For so long, I didn't believe I'd ever deserve more than what I'd been offered. He made me see I was wrong. I deserved love. Happiness. Him.

Brantley Marbury. The hero I didn't know I needed. The man who stole my heart with a simple touch, sweet words, and a flaming desire to claim me. The thing with happiness, though, is that it can be ripped away at a moment's notice.

For so long, the Running M Ranch was my life. After my father died, I spent years funneling all my energy into ensuring its success. But as Pops once told me, all the success in the world doesn't mean a damn thing without the love of a good woman at my side. I had no idea how true his words were until I met her.

Adilynn James. A girl more than a decade younger than me and carrying more baggage than someone so young should. Sure, she comes with a little brother, a piece of shit mother, and a lack of confidence like I've never seen, but she's worth it. Her heart speaks to my soul, and I know I'll do anything to claim her as mine.

Contains mature themes.