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

Jase edged Katie up beside the two larger mules and grabbed the stick. He handed it to Orr. Seeing that, the challenging stranger took a step back.


“Oh, you figure you gotta have a billy-club or somethin’ before you’ll take your beating? I can match that and raise you one.” He turned to reach into his truck and came out with a coiled whip. “I can use an equalizer, too.”


As they milled around, the motion-activated intrusion lights at the barn had come on and now illuminated the scene. Jase watched in near horror. How could Orr defend himself when he could hardly stand? Though the stranger was shorter, he looked heavy and strong. And that whip—bet it could cut like a chainsaw.


The stocky man started to uncoil the blacksnake. All the mules snorted and backed up.


Orr never took his eyes off the whip as he spoke. “Jase, cut Penny loose. She’s had to deal with this fucking fool before. She won’t go far. I don’t want her scared or maybe hurt again.”


Chapter 20