He is the grump of his family that just wants to go back to his farm. She is a single mom trying to hide in plain sight. They are both broken and not sure how to fix themselves.
Grant Evans is an uncomplicated man. He moved several hours away from his chaotic family and operates his late grandfather's farm. His private heartbreak is not something he discusses with anyone. Knowing he is not husband material he doesn't really "date." But when he sees his sister's best friend Trish, at a wedding he is instantly attracted to the quiet beauty.
Trish has been through more trauma than most people. Escaping her past was difficult and messy. She has had peace for a few years, but she knows her psychotic ex will show up eventually. Fortunately, she found a wonderful found-family that will do anything to protect her and her kids. But she can't help but feel guilty for threatening their safety or being a burden.
Grant is asked to watch his sister's kids while she is on her honeymoon. What he doesn't expect is that his responsibilities will be to cohabitate with the beautiful woman who is skittish like one of his broken horses. For Trish, she has walls around herself and her kids because of their tragic past. She typically doesn't like strange men but quickly realizes Grant Evans is definitely a man and a pleasant kind of strange.
Trish's ex makes a move, which means Trish and the kids need to go into hiding. The Evans put their matchmaking heads together and decide they will be safe at Grant's farm in the country. Trish reluctantly goes but feels guilty invading Grant's privacy. Grant is happy to have the 3 visitors in his home and bends over backwards to make their stay comfortable. Soon the walls between Grant and Trish (that were built because of the hurtful actions of other people), come down with ease. Grant knows he isn't good enough for Trish but he is willing to do anything to keep her.
Dual POV, forced proximity, single mom, open door love scenes.
These two MCs carry a lot of pain. Their burn is very slow but it's understandable with their complicated situations. But these two felt like two very competent adults knowing themselves well enough to know they have something to fight for. The threat of Trish's ex looms over the whole story, but Grant will do anything to protect Trish and her kids. These two are perfect for each other. Sweet HEA and charming Epilogue.
Notes: Grant is a tall, blonde, broad farmer. The image on the cover doesn't feel accurate. But I will not complain since it's a cute cover and not cringey.