Neil Logan, recently graduated equine veterinarian, always felt he’d know when he found the man he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Unfortunately, though Neil cares deeply for him, his college roommate Jordan is not that man. Neil takes a summer position far from home, foolishly thinking time and distance will cool Jordan’s feelings for him, and they can both move on.<br><br>Neil’s job is on an island attractive to tourists. There, horses are the sole mode of transportation, and Rolf Gundersen is the head farrier. Neil is immediately attracted to the handsome, mature man, and starts to believe Rolf might be the one for him. Frustratingly, despite Neil’s best efforts, Rolf seems determined to avoid him.<br><br>When Neil discovers the reason for Rolf’s aloofness, he’s able to forge a relationship with the farrier. Can Rolf and Neil find happiness in their newfound love, or will Jordan continue to be a factor in Neil’s life, possibly undermining Neil’s efforts to win Rolf over?

Once Upon an Island

The ride back to Island Tours was pleasant. Neil didn’t have to do much with the team as they knew they were on their way home and went into automatic pilot. Rolf spoke only a few words, but he seemed more relaxed and listened with interest, nodding and making appropriate vocalizations as Neil talked about his love for horses that led to his deciding on his career as a vet. Neil even caught what he could convince himself was a smile from Rolf when he told of comical experiences he’d had at vet school.


When they reached the surgery back at Island Tours Rolf said, “Pull back on the reins and say whoa.”


Again the Vsubstitution for the Wmade Neil smile. The horses obediently stopped at Neil’s command, and the men climbed down from the wagon. Rolf helped Neil carry things inside.


“Thanks so much for the lift and helping with my stuff, and the driving lesson,” Neil said.


Chapter 21