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

Hunched over on the sleeping bag, he fought for balance as Orr pounded into him. Yes, his butt was sore and his thigh muscles complained. Somehow that didn’t make any real difference. It felt good, it felt right, it felt perfect. He braced hard against a final thrust just before he felt Orr come and heard the rancher’s bellow of triumph that almost sounded like a bray.


After Orr pulled free and rocked back onto his heels, Jase collapsed when his legs gave out. Then he struggled back up onto his knees and turned around to face the other man. He felt a need to prove that he was okay. Orr studied him with an apparent frown, although his expression was not clear in the deepening dusk.


“Was that really what you wanted? Didn’t seem to me like you got off.” 5


Orr hesitated, a vague guilt gnawing at him. Had he taken advantage of his guest in a vulnerable situation? He waited a few seconds for a reply to his question.


Chapter 13