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

He crawls into my bed without getting undressed. I take off the hoodie and put on an old T-shirt, then join him. He backs into my arms, and we fall to sleep curled around each other. 10


It’s still dark outside when I wake up. And cold, if the frost blossoms on the window is anything to go by. But in here, it’s nice and toasty.


Under the covers, curled around a still-sleeping Pippin, I’m warm from the inside out, as though my heart is glowing in my chest.


Our legs are still tangled. My arm is slung around his waist and he’s holding my hand in a steady grip. His back is glued to my front and his ass is pressed against my groin. My groin andmy morning wood. I try to shuffle back so I won’t poke him in his sleep, but he whines a protest and follows me.


“It’s okay.” It’s little more than a mumble, and he sounds adorably sleepy.


Chapter 25