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

When they reached the barns, they unsaddled their horses and bedded them for the night, giving each an extra flake of hay. The day had been so perfect, Neil didn’t want to think of saying good night.


As Neil was hanging up the last of the tack, Rolf came up behind him. He wrapped his arms around Neil’s waist. Rolf kissed Neil’s ear and whispered softly, “Would you stay the night with me?”


Neil joyfully turned to face Rolf. “Of course.”


Rolf gave him a gentle kiss, took his hand, and led him out of the barn. By this time night had fallen, and they walked hand in hand in the darkness in the direction of the dormitories. Before they reached them, however, Rolf turned down a lane that Neil had passed before but had never explored.


Chapter 37