TESSA
Someone is laundering stolen cattle through Barbed Crown Ranch, and the first altered tag changes while I’m watching.
I came to South Texas to trace ownership, not survive sabotaged brakes or a deputy coming for my evidence. Garrett McCall tracks my movements and offers dangerous cover: his family’s ring and a fake engagement.
GARRETT
My father is dead, lenders are circling, and scandal could cost hundreds of workers their livelihoods. Tessa’s audit could destroy Barbed Crown, but only she can expose the thief inside it.
When someone comes for her, I lock down the ranch and make our enemies believe she’s mine. But Tessa won’t be owned, and protecting her won’t buy her evidence, her body, or her trust.
Now stolen heifers move before dawn, a compromised deputy closes the road, and the traitor has one last chance to burn the proof. Tessa builds a trap from ear tags, records, and South Texas dirt. I have one chance to follow her plan instead of taking control.
If we survive the sale, Barbed Crown has a future. So do we, if I’m strong enough to let her choose me.
A dark, high-heat cowboy romance with a possessive hero and guaranteed HEA.