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

My heart clenches. “Don’t,” I blurt and surprise myself.


His eyes widen. “Surely, you’re not defending her, Ashley? You’ve never said anything, but you can’t fool me. I know how you feel about her.”


I squeeze his pinkie. “That’s not what I meant.”


“Just…bein’ bitter doesn’t suit you. I’ve wondered a long time why you aren’t angry about your situation…you shouldbe angry. But hearin’ you like that feels wrong. You’re a ray of sunshine, Pippin, and I don’t want you to change.”


His lower lip trembles and he weaves his fingers with mine. “Tell me what she said?”


I do, I tell him everything, even the part about his big sister Merry, but he already knew about her. I’m meticulous, trying to remember her exact words, and whenever he asks for clarification, I give it.


“I’m sorry,” he whispers when I finish.


“I’m sorry she said those things to you.”


Chapter 18