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

“But we must exchange numbers. I don’t want to make you worry if this happens again,” Rolf said.


Sorry for the situation, Neil still was nevertheless grateful, as it provided still more evidence that Rolf was sincere in his decision to take a chance on Neil.


They walked into the museum restaurant. It was decorated in horse related artifacts. Draft horse collars, bridles, and other pieces of tack hung on the walls. Round tables which were fashioned from retired wagon wheels and had Plexiglas tops with seating for four, six, or eight in captain’s chairs, were arranged around the room. The menu was simple—burgers, pizza, and the like. Soft drinks, beer, and wine were available. Ice cream and pies of various kinds were offered for dessert.


They were seated at a table in the center of the room. Rolf heaved a heavy sigh as if he were letting go of the drama of the situation he’d just left behind.


Rolf looked over the menu. He seemed to be scowling.


Chapter 34