Gabe has seen it before—a cowboy leaves, a woman is left behind. It’s why he doesn’t even hesitate to assume Renata Vargas is just another abandoned single mom-to-be like his sister had been. When Gabe’s careless remark stings deeper than he intended, Renata doesn’t hesitate—her sharp response leaves him reeling, setting off tension neither of them can ignore.
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Gabe hadn't known what to expect, but the very pregnant, unmarried Mexican woman across from him wasn't it. His brother Ross had left out a few key details—like the fact that his supposed business mentor was weeks away from having a baby. Great. More complication. More distraction. More wasted time.
Still, he took her in—sharp eyes, soft curves, an undeniable confidence despite the weight she carried, both physically and otherwise. She was small, built for control, carrying herself like someone who called the shots. Intriguing, sure. But not what he needed.
"When are you due?"
The words came out rougher than intended, but he needed to know if coming here had been a mistake. She looked about ready to pop—probably another thought he should keep to himself. Her brown eyes flashed wide before narrowing sharply, irritation flaring in their depths.
"None of your business."
Gabe exhaled loudly, shifting back in his chair. Touchy. "I ask because Ross assured me we'd have six weeks." Her gaze darted toward the corner of the room—hesitation, clear as day.
"The baby is due in four weeks," she finally admitted. "My doctor says I need a few days off, maybe a week, then I'll be back."
A week? Even his sister Haydon—tough-as-nails ranch woman—had taken three. And she hadn't needed stitches or bed rest or whatever else came with childbirth.
"This your first kid?"
Renata bristled, but Gabe caught the tension beneath it. Not the response of a woman thrilled about being a mother. "Baby's dad just… disappeared?"
Her nostrils flared, but she didn't correct him. Gabe scoffed. Figures. Another irresponsible cowboy, skipping town and leaving behind a mess.
Renata's entire body stiffened. "Not everything is some cowboy running out on his responsibility, Gabe."
Her words cut, but what got him wasn't the bite—it was the flicker of something raw in her eyes. She wasn't just irritated. She was shielding something. She pushed her chair back and stood. "I'll have my sister show you to your bunk."
As she walked past, her arm barely brushed his sleeve—light, fleeting. But for some reason, it hit harder than it should have. Not gonna happen. Gabe shook his head. He couldn't afford an entanglement with the pregnant resort manager, no matter how much she piqued his interest.
Dust off your boots and saddle up for romance! Just outside Wickenburg, Arizona, the sprawling Vargas Guest Ranch & Resort is where hearts get lassoed and love stories unfold under the desert sky. The Vargas family has built their legacy on one unshakeable motto: We do not deviate from the Lord's plan.
But when it comes to matters of the heart? Well, let's just say God's plan includes some delightfully unexpected detours.
Meet five rugged brothers who can wrangle cattle, charm guests, and run a world-class resort—but when love comes calling, they're about to discover they're in for the ride of their lives.
Falling for a Real Cowboy - Dalton's Story
A big-city romance author meets her match in a no-nonsense cowboy who's sworn off love. Sparks fly when career ambition collides with cowboy charm!
Falling for a Shy Cowboy - Dylan's Story
He's carried a torch for his best friend's sister since high school. She's a single mom starting over. Sometimes the sweetest love stories are worth the wait.
Falling for a Bossy Cowboy - Derin's Story
A world-famous tennis player meets the most brutally honest cowboy alive. He says what everyone else won't—but can he win her heart with the truth?
Falling for a Smart Cowboy - Devon's Story
She's fighting for orphaned kids. He's desperate to escape ranch life. When passion meets purpose, everything changes.
Falling for a Humbug Cowboy - Drake's Story
Christmas cheer meets certified Grinch. She's sunshine personified; he's nursing a wounded heart. Can holiday magic melt his frosty exterior?
Falling for a Devoted Cowgirl - Solana's Story
Age is just a number—or is it? Years of secret glances and hidden feelings finally come to a head in this tender second-chance romance.
Falling for a Pregnant Cowgirl - Renata's Story
Love gets complicated when she's carrying someone else's baby and he's falling hard despite every reason to walk away. Trust has never been more precious—or fragile.
Ready to fall for the Vargas family? Each standalone story delivers faith, heart, and that signature Arizona heat!