SAMUEL

She’s rebuilding her life. He’s reclaiming his strength. Together, they’ll face the dangers of their pasts-and the undeniable pull of their hearts.Samuel Cooper has spent his life protecting his family, his ranch, and the people he loves. But after a health crisis left him feeling caged by their constant worry, all Sam wants is to prove he’s still the capable cowboy they’ve always counted on. When his new Office Manager arrives, pregnant and clearly all on her own, it triggers every protective instinct in his body.Evelyn Williams left Wisconsin with nothing but a baby in her belly and a fierce determination to start her life over. Landing a job at the picturesque Red River Ranch in Bell Ridge, Texas, offers her a place to heal and a chance to provide for her baby on her own terms. Independence has always been Evie’s armor, and she’s not about to let anyone break through-especially not the gruff, irresistibly attractive cowboy who seems determined to dismantle the walls she’s built around her heart.Sam and Evie clash from the start-his fear of letting someone else down making him reluctant to trust, and her desperate need to stay forcing her to fight for her place at the ranch. Neither expects the growing tension between them to spark something deeper, something neither can ignore.When Sam’s long-held secret about his health comes to light, it unexpectedly puts Evie-and her baby-in harm’s way. Now, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and her child. But Evie isn’t used to leaning on anyone, and trusting Sam means surrendering a part of herself she’s fought hard to protect.Can two people used to standing alone find the strength to stand together? Or will the shadows of their pasts keep them apart for good?