Nine Month Contract: Sprayed Edge by Amy Daws (Paperback)

A single fatherhood plan should have been simple. Knox wanted a child, not a relationship, not chaos, and certainly not interference from his loud-mouthed brothers. Yet they placed an outrageous help-wanted ad on his behalf: a grumpy mountain man looking for a surrogate willing to withstand his silence, his goats, and the constant curiosity of neighbouring brothers. It was ridiculous, intrusive and embarrassing. But it worked.

Trista walks into the interview wearing scuffed cowboy boots, confidence in every step, and opinions she never hides. Knox recognises something in her that feels right. She challenges him, surprises him, stands her ground and laughs in the face of his grumpy exterior. She is perfect for the role he needs filled, but also the very woman capable of undoing every boundary he has set.

They agree to the arrangement, professional and clear. A child is the goal. Feelings are not part of the deal. Yet the first night changes everything. Cheap wine, dim kitchen lights and a shared sense of nerves make the moment feel far too intimate. When the medical supplies come out, neither of them expects sparks to fly. Knox wants more than cooperation. He wants closeness. He wants her.

As the months unfold, desire complicates business, friendship turns tender, and a contract built on practicality begins to look like fate. Knox must decide whether to hold his distance, or fight for the woman who could change his entire future.