When six feet of tall, lean cowboy rides up kicking dust, Jess Cummings thinks a holiday miracle has arrived. Not only does he help with an injured colt, Gage Moore hires on to work her ranch. The handsome, trustworthy Texan is everything Jess could want in an employee. But is the ex–rodeo star too good to be true?

Gage came to Oklahoma haunted by a saddle load of grief. He'll help Jess get the ranch in shape by Christmas, then be on his way. After all, the job was always meant to be temporary. But how can he leave now that the hardworking single mom has given him a reason to stay? And if he does, can he be the husband and father Jess and her daughters need?