The Linden House

Gabriel Price has spent twenty-two years avoiding Hadley Falls, Vermont. When his Aunt Rosie passes away, he inherits half of her Victorian bed-and-breakfast, the Linden House. The catch is that he must reside on the property and operate the inn jointly for ninety-three days with the other heir or forfeit his share, which is money Gabriel desperately needs.

Thomas Hale is a rugged handyman and licensed plumber who was deeply loyal to Aunt Rosie. He converted the carriage house into his apartment and workshop ten years ago. He also remembers the quiet, heartbroken fourteen-year-old boy Gabriel used to be, even though Gabriel doesn't initially recognize him.

Forced into close quarters by a will with explicit instructions to make them stay in the same house, the two men must navigate broken boilers, a dying wisteria vine, and a shared kitchen. Thomas is initially determined to keep his boundaries clear, while Gabriel is just trying to survive the season and secure his inheritance. As the Vermont summer progresses, the tension of shared breakfasts and porch swings gives way to a steamy, deep emotional connection.