Horses, a sympathetic ear, or a good night’s sleep. Cole Woodruff, owner of the Lazy W Dude Ranch, supplies whatever his guests need. But when Jack Harmon arrives, Cole’s own desires clamor to be met. Should he risk the ranch to satisfy what might be nothing more than an itch? And even if Jack turns out to be that special man Cole’s yearned for, is it right to move forward when a vulnerable child is involved? Not long ago, Jack was awarded custody of his son Alex after the sudden death of the boy’s mother. Out on the road for all of his son’s life, what does he know about being a dad? Sleepless nights spent worrying have worn Jack to a raw nerve. Visiting the dude ranch with Alex, Jack delights in Cole's friendship. And the way Cole’s warm, wonderful voice is so soothing, it cradles Jack to sleep whenever they’re together. Jack aches to spend every night dreaming in the big cowboy's arms. But can a lullaby last forever? Or will the dream fade when morning comes?

Cowboy Lullaby

Cole settled onto his side of the bed and beckoned to him. “Come on, spoon up next to me and let my magic voice lull you to sleep. Alex will be up before too long—the twins’ parents want to get an early start.”


Jack sighed—half in relief and half in disappointment. Of course, Cole had understood. The man just gotpeople and always seemed to know what they needed. He rolled over and snuggled his back against Cole’s broad chest, valiantly ignoring the hard press of the man’s cock. At least for now, he promised himself. At least for now.


Warm breath ruffled Jack’s hair. “So, let me tell you about the time I discovered the laws of gravity playing Tarzan from the barn loft.”


Jack badly wanted to stay awake to hear the man’s stories. But being held secure against that muscled chest felt so safe, so protected, he stopped fighting. Letting Cole’s words cradle him in warm velvet, Jack relaxed and slept. 9


Chapter 14