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

“We gotta get the mules unharnessed and feed ‘em. Then if you’ll drive me, maybe we better go in to Silver City and let somebody check my leg. It’s still hurting like the devil.”


“I’ve got it,” Jase assured. “I know how to get the saddles and tack off. The mules go two to the big stalls and attached pens, right? Horatio and Maude, Rojo and Lulu and then Penny with Katie. I’ll take care of it. You find a place to sit while I get ‘er done.”


Orr didn’t sit. He hobbled along and helped some, maybe speeded the process up a small bit. Finally, the gear was in the tack room, the mules in front of full feed boxes and Orr seemed satisfied with the job. He exhaled a slow sigh. “Damn, I didn’t realize how far the barn is from the house. Never seemed much distance before.”


Jase planted himself in front of Orr. “Stay right here. I’ll get my rental and bring it down to get you. Then we’ll head for Silver City.” At first, he thought Orr would refuse. He didn’t


Chapter 21