This winter finds Kemp Trumble in a pickle along Lake Erie as he attempts to seek out some quiet time to finish writing his next best-selling thriller. Not only does he think the lumberjack next door is loud and annoying, but he also believes the stud alluring, a heavy distraction, and sexy.<br><br>Kemp purposely tries to keep his distance from Jack Manwood, knowing they rub each other the wrong way. To no avail, Kemp seems to constantly run into Jack. No matter how much Kemp steers clear of the hot neighbor, Jack is always around, here and there, everywhere.<br><br>Unpredictably, these two different men, one from the back woods and one from the city, find common ground: drinks at Timbers, manly hugs, and the annual Lumberjack Competition, which they both attend. But are Kemp and Jack's similarities strong enough to escalate their friendly relationship into boyfriendhood? Or will they remain separated by miles of lumber and broken hearts?

Lumberjack

Surprisingly, the task ended much quicker than I anticipated. Truth told, it took the team of three hometown lakesiders approximately fifteen minutes to clear the pass. When the pair of lady-dudes climbed into their registered MPCC vehicle, I circled the side of the Uber, ready to climb inside.


Behind me, Jack yelled in my direction, “Where do you think you’re going, Mr. Trumble?”


I turned in his direction, felt a fresh stream of cold snowflakes on my lips and cheeks, wind against my forehead, and informed him, “I don’t think that’s any of your business.”


He walked towards me, dangling the chainsaw at his right side, making the task look easy. Sweat clung to his forehead and neck. “Good to know that you’re on your smartass game today. My life wouldn’t be complete without that.”


“Good to know you cleared this pass so I can get back to my writing.”


Chapter 12