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“It was her father who did it,” I remind her. “She was just a kid, same as I was.”

“I wasn’t referring to the theft and deceit,” Mom replies. “I meant, what she did toyou.”

To say that my mom is overprotective would be an understatement. Even though Bobby and I are fully grown adults who are both competent and capable, she still constantly worries about us and wants to keep us safe from all harm.

And I love her so much for it, but sometimes you just have to take risks in life, including with your heart.

When it pays off, the dividends are completely worth it.

And when it doesn’t, you get a lesson for next time.

As much as I never thought it would be the case, I’m willing to take the chance on Ashley.

“It was years ago, Mom,” I reply. “And we’re making our peace.”

She snorts. “Is that what you call it?”

My face heats because being with Ashley is about so much more than my dick. It’s rare that my dick, my heart and my brain are ever in agreement, but this time they’re unanimously in favor of giving Ashley elevated status in my life.

“That isnotwhat I meant,” I reply.

“Gavin, how about we give her some money?” Dad suggests softly.

Keeping my mom happy is always going to be his top priority. He’s a family man down to his bones, and I’ve never seen a man love a woman more than he does.

“That would be the best and easiest solution,” Mom agrees. “We’ll give her some money, and then she can be on her way.”

Except that’s not what I want at all.

“She wouldn’t take the handout,” I say. “She wants to work and earn the money she needs to get back on her feet.”

“Pretty noble for a Gibson,” Mom replies.

“Please stop,” I say. “I understand that you don’t understand. But I’m just asking you to accept what I need to do right now, and that’s being with her. I don’t know how things are going to shake out, but for better or worse, what I need right now is her. So, please, Mom, just give her a chance. For me. Just try to work with me on solutions, okay? It’s not like us to turn away someone who needs our help.”

Emotion clogs my throat, and I’m clenching the coffee mug so hard that I’m surprised it doesn’t shatter.

“For what it’s worth,” Cameron says, his voice soft and steady, “I haven’t seen Gavin so happy in years. Ashley isn’t perfect, and she’s living under the pressure of what her dad did. I’m sure it wasn’t easy to walk onto this property with her head held high, asking for a chance with an apology ready on her lips. But it’s what she did. And the love she has for your son pours from her, I can assure you.”

I shoot him a grateful look and he winks at me. He isn’t Ashley’s biggest fan either, but he’s coming around because it’s what I need from him. And I’ll be the one who has to live with any consequences of my decisions.

Mom’s face softens as her eyes glisten, and she holds open her arms. “Oh, Gavin, I’m sorry, honey. I love you so much.”

I rise to my feet and go to her, hugging her tightly as the familiar scent of my childhood wraps itself around me and gives me the strength that I didn’t know I needed.

“I love you, Mom.”

I’m beyond the point of asking for permission or needing approval, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to be on the same page as my family.

Life just fits so much better when everyone is in harmony.

After Mom finally releases me, Dad hugs me, too. All he’s ever wanted is for everyone to be happy. He’s always encouraged Bobby and me to follow whatever path our hearts lead us to, whether it was our chosen careers or our partners.

“And I love you, too, Dad,” I say. “I’m not going to do anything that puts either of you or this ranch in jeopardy. I’m trying to protect everyone and everything and just do the right thing. To do what feels right in my heart.”

“You’re a good man, Gavin,” Dad says. “And I’m proud of you. If you need our help and support, then that’s what you’ll have. There’s enough for you to handle without us making it harder.” He turns to Mom. “Are you okay if Ashley helps you and earns some extra money?”

“Yes,” Mom says, and a whoosh of relief leaves my chest.