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

Although initially slow to join in, once Zane did, his hands, tongue, and lips increased the energy and passion between them.


Rory’s vision started to grey around the edges through lack of oxygen, and he was feeling light-headed. Just when he thought he’d pass out, Zane pulled back.


“Sorry, Ror,” Zane panted, his moist, kiss-swollen lips glistening in the overhead light. Rory was mesmerized by the sight.


“Huh?” Why was Zane apologizing? This had been one of their hottest make out sessions.


“For saying crap about myself like that. And you’re right, I remembered what you said about me and my drawing being, uh, awesome. It’s just…” Zane ran a hand over his shaved head. “You’re so smart, knowing all them questions on the TV and everything and I…” Zane shrugged. “Sorry.”


“Oh, Zane.” Rory ran his hands along Zane’s shoulders. “We’ve been through this. I wouldn’t change a single thing about you.” Rory smiled. “Well, almost.”


Chapter 69