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

We shared a meatball lathered in a thick red sauce. I took the first bite and passed him the remaining portion.


“You can’t have me, Jack. I won’t let that happen. My heart is closed off to you. I’m forbidden for you to have.”


After chewing, he swallowed, and then he wiped his lips. “For now. You never know what’s going to happen in the future. A channel or doorway can open. Things can change.”


“But Jack, I’m only here until the New Year. You can’t get your hopes up. I’m like a stray. I just go from one writing place to the next. I have books to write. I can’t fall in love with you. And you can’t fall in love with me. We are not meant to be.”


“Yes, you’re a stray. And you strayed over to my place.”


The song changed. I knew it. As well as Jack. “Chandelier” by Sia. We agreed that it was one of our favorites.


“As soon as you realize that I won’t be yours.”


Chapter 19