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

Breathless, Jack smiled and ran his hands over Cole’s biceps. “I really love how strong you are.”


Cole sat up and straddled Jack’s hips. “Sometimes more than I realize. I didn’t hurt you, did I?”


“Of course not. But I have to admit, it’s kind of a thrill knowing you could, but being certain you won’t.”


Cole’s fingers had been busily scrabbling to unbutton Jack’s shirt and finally flung it open. Running his hands up the porcelain expanse, he sighed in delight at the longed-for feel of flesh, satin-smooth and warm. “You’re beautiful. But so pale.”


“Not much time for sunbathing on the road.”


“It’s not a bad look on you. Makes you seem, I don’t know, like a Greek statue carved out of marble.”


Jack’s hands were working open the buckle on Cole’s belt. “I assure you, I’m very real. Complete with moving parts.”


Chapter 19