Stephen’s lover Emmett accuses him of being boring and way too predictable. To prove him wrong, Stephen plans a surprise romantic getaway to a cabin on the river. But Emmett has plans of his own for romance -- ones that don’t include Stephen anymore. Depressed at yet another break-up, Stephen wonders if it isn’t time to give up hope. But finding that elusive man he longs for -- the one willing to risk everything to be with him -- would take a miracle. So Stephen travels alone to the cabin in search of a new perspective. Resolving to be more adventurous, he tries kayaking for the first time in his life. It’s great until he dozes off and wakes in the middle of a raging flood. Terrified, he fights for his life, nearly losing his battle with the river. On the edge of surrender, he’s rescued by an unusual stranger who might not really exist. Nothing makes any sense after that. Mystical explanations seem no less likely than rational ones. But does it matter? Because if Stephen wants an adventure, taking one last chance on love might turn out to be the best one of all.

A Pebble in the Water

His rescuer was kneeling in front of him, a first aid kit in his hands. “Are you back with me? I need to examine your wounds. And then I want to get you washed down before I dress them. Flood water is pretty nasty stuff.”


Stephen nodded and reached for the tea. He drained the cup, savoring the soothing heat on his sore throat. Placing a hand on the man’s shoulder, he said, “And you waded into that nasty water, risking your life to save mine. You’re a hero, and I don’t even know your name.”


A flush crept up the man’s neck, barely visible under the deep tan. His eyes shifted downward. “Oh, you can call me Cal. And don’t put too much stock in that hero idea. I had one end of a rope around my waist and the other end hitched to a tree before I ever dipped a toe in that water.”


Chapter 8