Back Roads — Gabrielle Evans

It's not that he isn't insanely attracted to Bannon Murphy, but when the man starts talking about mates, Galen balks. He's been burned by a lying, manipulating shifter before, and he isn't convinced that he can trust the sexy Irishman. After months of trying to convince Galen they're fated to be together, Bannon is at the end of his rope. Not only does Galen refuse to accept that they're mates, but he stubbornly clings to the idea that he's nothing more than human. No matter how hard Galen tries to push him away, Bannon isn't going anywhere without a fight. When The Council convinces him to take Galen on his next assignment, Bannon decides to use the time to woo his obstinate mate. Unfortunately, it soon becomes apparent that keeping them safe from their enemies will be easier than convincing his mate to stop running from the truth.