Fierce and Fragile Optimism: 2

Dr Tate Carter didn't come to Harlan Springs to find love.He came to replace a legend.Leaving an established city practice behind, Tate arrives determined to prove-to his uncle and to himself-that he is skilled, capable, and ready to drag the town's ageing veterinary practice into the modern world. He has no time for unofficial assistants, farm-girl instincts, or "that's how we've always done it."Sage Harlan has been at Doc Carter's side for years. She knows every fence line, every stubborn farmer, and every animal by name. She doesn't need a certificate to know when a mare's about to kick or when a bull's bluffing.And she definitely doesn't need a city vet dismissing her.When Tate insists on doing things his way, the town pushes back. Gates stay closed. Tempers flare. Bulls take offence.Now Tate has a choice: cling to his pride... or admit he might need the one woman who refuses to be underestimated-both in his practice and in his heart.In Harlan Springs, reputation is everything.Belonging is earned.And sometimes optimism is the bravest thing of all.