Lila’s boots sank into the soft dirt as she stepped out of her rental truck. The old ranch stretched out under the fading sunset, all red dirt, wooden fences, and the distant low of cattle. She’d come out here for a weekend getaway — escape the city noise, breathe some real air. What she hadn’t expected was the two cowboys leaning against the barn door, watching her like she was the best thing they’d seen all week.
Cole was tall and broad, sun-browned skin, dark stubble, and eyes the color of strong whiskey. His flannel shirt was unbuttoned at the top, showing a hint of chest hair. Beside him stood Ryder — leaner, with messy blond hair under his hat, a lazy grin, and arms corded with muscle from roping and riding.
“You must be the city girl renting the cabin,” Cole said, voice deep and s
