Mechanic Jordan Hart is down on his luck, so he gladly accepts a temporary job servicing tractors at a hazelnut farm in Newberg, Oregon. He doesn’t expect to be attracted to his boss, Beckett Shaw. Still working on embracing his bisexuality, he’s reluctant to start anything, but Beckett’s gentle coaxing convinces Jordan to take a risk.<br><br>Beckett has vowed not to get involved with anyone until he can restore the Shaw Farms name as a leader in hazelnuts. But there’s no denying his interest in the shy mechanic who shows up at his door. Just as they begin to find a balance, outside forces threaten to tear them apart. Job opportunities force Jordan out of the Portland area he loves so much. But when danger comes too close to Beckett, Jordan must decide if he can follow his heart to the Willamette Valley ... and straight back to Beckett.

Hearts and Hazelnuts

He headed back toward the medical center and took the turn into Medford Center. It was full of stores and businesses, and he was sure he’d find a place to eat. He drove past the Red Robin, not really in the mood for their fare, but he stopped when he noticed Sophia’s Soup Factory. The windows advertised soups, salads, wraps, and bread bowls. It sounded like exactly what he wanted.


He found a place to park and walked back to the restaurant. As soon as he pulled open the door, his mouth watered at the rich aroma of bread. He found a smile for the girl behind the counter and ordered a hearty potato chowder in a ciabatta bread bowl. When he was seated, he let his mind wander back to the interview. He couldn’t help going over it again and again, wondering if he’d said something that made Steve question his abilities. No. Steve had been clear that he’d like to hire Jordan. It was the sheer number of guys going out for the job that made him hesitate.


Chapter 26