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

Dressed in boots, a wool jacket, gloves, and a scarf, I made my way to the fourth competition, the Underhand Chop. Although Jack didn’t see me, I did see him. He stood in a line of nine men and women, axes in their hands. Three rows from the front, centered behind two large men and bear-like woman, I studied Jack’s flannel shirt covering his muscular torso, work boots on his feet, and tight jeans. White suspenders were pulled over his shoulders, keeping his jeans secure at his hips.


Chapter 24