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

Chris handed over the first dripping plate and said, “So, you know about me, why don’t you tell me about you? What are you doing up here—besides surfing the flood waters?”


Stephen’s hands stilled. Admitting that he’d been hiding out from a bad breakup sounded too lame. So he settled for an evasion. “I just needed a change. I’m staying at my friend’s cabin for a week. Karen Friedrich. Do you know her?”


“Not well, but we’ve met a few times during the summers. Her cabin’s a long way upstream—you took quite a ride to get here. And, sorry, but you’re going to have to stay here tonight. Karen’s place is on the other side of the river, and the bridges are closed. They should be open tomorrow, though. I’ll drive you back up then.”


Stephen brightened. More time to spend with Chris suited him just fine.


Chris tossed the sponge into the sink and stretched his neck in a circle. “Damn, I’m tired.” He pulled off his sweatshirt and stretched his arms over his head until his vertebrae popped.


Chapter 12