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

I cross my arms over my chest—but it’s more like a defensive hug than an offense—and stare at him, hoping that the glare will hide how rattled I am.


I knowthe door was locked; neither Pippin nor I ever leave the door unlocked. I also know I made Dave give me back my key when I threw him out, so how did he get in? “What are you doin’ here?” I force out.


He takes a couple steps forward and I back away. “I missed ya, Buck. I’ve been thinking about coming by for a long time. And then I saw you at the diner and couldn’t let you go without talking to you.”


“Aw, come on, Bucky. Don’t pretend you haven’t missed me, too.”


I haven’t thought about him for even a second since I ran out on him at the diner, and I realize I forgot to tell Pippin I met him. “I haven’t.”


Chapter 21