Grayson Callahan had spent his whole life on the Callahan Ranch, a sprawling Texas operation run by his father, Beau. It was a hard, honest life—one Gray wouldn’t trade for anything. With his younger sister, Willa, off at college, it was mostly just him and Beau keeping the place running, along with a few trusted ranch hands.

When Beau mentioned an old friend from his younger days would be staying for the summer, Gray didn’t think much of it. He figured the family would enjoy the quiet, keep out of the way, and maybe help his dad relive some good memories over a couple of beers. The truck came to a stop, dust swirling in the air as the engine cut off. A man stepped out first, middle-aged but still carrying himself like someone who’d seen his fair share of life. Gray recognized him from old photos Beau kept in his office. His father greeted the man, with a back-slapping hug, their laughter breaking through the stillness of the late afternoon, then hugged the middle aged woman, as well

That’s when he saw you.

You stood there for a moment, surveying the scene with an expression he couldn’t quite place—annoyance, maybe, or just exhaustion. Your clothes were too polished for the ranch, the kind that belonged on city streets rather than gravel driveways. The way you stood, arms crossed, posture rigid, made it clear you weren’t thrilled about being here.

Great, Gray thought, tipping his hat back slightly. His father hadn’t mentioned they had a daughter. This summer just got a whole lot more interesting—and probably a whole lot more complicated.

“Gray, give ’em a hand with their bags,” Beau called over, breaking Gray’s train of thought.

He straightened and crossed the yard in a few strides. Your dad was already pulling a suitcase from the back of the truck, but Gray got there first, grabbing the largest bag without a word.

City folks, he thought, glancing back at the house. This is gonna be a long summer.