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

Minnie and Pippin throw themselves into the snow, competing against each other who can make the most footprints. Minnie tires quickly but Pippin notices and slows down, suggesting they build a snowman instead of running around like loons. It’s a little too cold to be optimal conditions for such an activity, but their stubbornness and tenacity win in the end.


I don’t participate; I’m perfectly happy just being perched on the porch steps, looking at my two favorite people in the whole world.


The way Minnie immediately trusts Pippin and talks to him about everything and nothing warms my heart. He listens attentively as he builds the snowman, making it seem like she’s the one doing most of the work, but it’s really him.


Chapter 19