Orr Loveless is exactly where he knows he belongs, rescuing and training mules. Despite their reputation, which he feels is undeserved, he knows they are smart, sure footed, and great mounts for trail riding and outdoor adventures. The only thing he lacks is a human partner to share the work and the fun, but he knows his lifestyle is not likely to attract one.<br><br>Jase Keller has returned to New Mexico, where his forgotten roots remain. With his high finance job destroying him, he desperately needs a big change for this vacation. Only Orr Loveless doesn’t seem to want to take him on a wilderness trip. When they go, it’s the opposite of the farm boy seeing the city for the first time. Jase discovers another life and it’s the one he wants to live ... with Orr by his side.<br><br>Can Jase persuade a stubborn mule man like Orr that he doesn’t need to be “loveless” any longer?

The Mule Man

While he’d been sitting, stiffness had really set in. He hobbled the few yards to the tent, stooped like an old man, and ducked into the low opening. Which bedroll was supposed to be his? Dropping to his knees, he turned back.


“Hey, Orr, right side or left? I’m not sure which space is mine.”


“Don’t care. Pick your poison. I’m going to let the fire die down a little more and then bury the coals, just to be safe. Soon as that’s done, I’ll be there.”


Since he wasn’t sure how long his window of privacy would last, Jase made a quick choice. “Right, then.”


Chapter 12