A Cowboy’s Bride by Vivian Arend

Pretend engagement, hidden sanctuary—where secrets and hope collide

Inspired by their stepfather’s legacy of paying it forward, Aiden Skye and his brothers bought Heart Falls Animal Rescue with a hidden agenda. More than a shelter for animals, it’ll be a refuge—a secret haven for people needing a place to hide and rebuild their lives. Aiden is determined to make High Water a success.
Petra Sorenson is looking for a new beginning in a place that already feels like home. With friends in Heart Falls ready to support her, an IT job waiting at her brother’s ranch, and some secret vigilante hacking on the side, she hopes a fresh start will heal her trampled heart.
Neither Aiden nor Petra expected their paths to cross again. Their fiery one-night stand years ago was supposed to stay in the past. But when they have to pretend to be engaged to protect a young woman, their lives begin to tangle.
Living together while building a secret safe house is complicated. Their attraction is undeniable, but adding real emotions to lies is messy.
But a little pretending never hurt anyone…right?