Ashley “Buck” Buchanan moved back home to take care of his sick mother when he was 22. That was the first time he met Pippin, the neglected 6-year-old boy next door. Fifteen years later, Buck, a caretaker by nature, offers up his couch for Pippin, who needs a break from his mom and a quiet place to sleep.<br><br>Pippin Olander is a ray of sunshine despite his emotionally lacking upbringing and works hard to make a better life for himself. Even though he’s fiercely self-sufficient, he learns to accept help from Buck, his rock and the only steady presence in his life.<br><br>Their friendship deepens and grows into something more as they spend time together. But when other people try to throw a wrench in the works, when Pippin’s independence is triggered, can Buck and Pippin trust in the love they’ve found?

His Steady Heart

“Thank you, Ashley,” he whispers. “No one has ever supported me like you do.”


I grunt and blink, my eyes suddenly itchy. I will always support you. AlwaysI vow the words in my head, unable to say them out loud.


He doesn’t let go right away. Instead, he tightens his grip and presses his front even closer to my back. He smells of hot chocolate and sleep, and I let my eyes drift closed.


He’s a very handsy guy, taking every opportunity to touch me. Brushes a shoulder against mine. A quick caress on my hand or my arm. A hug like this when he’s happy or thankful for something.


And he watches me a lot. Intently. His gaze is always warm and happy whenever he lets it linger on me. Sometimes, I think he likes me, but I manage to talk myself out of such delusions. He’s just grateful, that’s all.


After a final squeeze, he lets go and retakes his place across from me. “What about you. Are you happy with your life?”


Chapter 10