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

Even though Orr did not look forward to riding through that, there was no other way to reach his next favorite campsite. At one spot he knew the trail edged along a short, steeply sloping area between two cliffs on the north wall of one canyon. He had not been up there since the fire. If the fall rains and spring snowmelt had been heavy, it might be washed out or in bad shape. Still, he trusted his mules would navigate it safely.


After a moment’s thought, he decided he’d stop when he got to the edge of the area. That way, he could be sure Jase was doing okay and also take a look at the trail. He should be able to see if it was dangerous. For now, their way stretched ahead, smooth and easy, while the morning looked bright and inviting. Orr found himself whistling a jaunty tune as he urged Maude to move along.


Chapter 14