Rory Brown grew up in care but found a home, friendship, and a much-needed sense of security working on the Double J ranch. As far as Rory is concerned, fellow cowboy, Zane Fox, is perfect. Zane is strong but gentle, kind, big, ruggedly handsome ... and straight. Rory works alongside Zane, eats alongside Zane, and when an ice storm causes a power outage, he sleeps alongside Zane ... for warmth. Inhibitions lowered after getting drunk on his twenty-first birthday, Rory Kisses Zane and confesses his feelings for the man. The next day, when Rory learns his father is dying, although estranged from the man, Rory feels obligated to see him one last time. Zane follows Rory to Kansas and confesses he has feelings for Rory, too. After learning his father has died, Rory and Zane set off for home in Zane's old truck. However, bad weather and a mechanical breakdown mean they have to hole up in a guesthouse. Rory doesn't mind, it gives him a chance to explore things with his hunky new boyfriend. And there's a lot of Zane to explore. Life on the ranch is little short of idyllic, Zane is everything and more Rory could want in a lover, protector, and friend. A tiny part of Rory knows he should brace himself for if/when the other shoe -- or cowboy boot -- drops. Rory is thrown when evidence of Zane's heterosexual past reveals itself, leaving him totally devastated. Are Zane's feet made of clay, or can he redeem himself and once again become Rory's rock?

Rory's Rock

Seconds later, he heard heavy footsteps—Zane’s footsteps—come down the hallway and stop outside his room. Rory held his breath and thought he was going to pass out through lack of oxygen before the footsteps retreated. Rory took several deep breaths and heard Zane’s bedroom door open and close. It was several more minutes before he could peel himself from his door, all the while listening for any sound coming from Zane’s room.


You’re safe, a voice in his head reassured him. This is your room. You’re surrounded by your things. You’re safe.


Then a second voice started up, undoing the good work of the first one. What the fuck were you doing kissing Zane!He’s straight, you idiot!


“Stop it!” Rory hissed quietly, rubbing his head.


Changing into his night attire, Rory got into bed, and, as expected, sleep did not come.


Chapter 27