The little town of Branding Iron, Texas, keeps an annual tradition that makes the holidays especially festive--the Cowboys' Christmas Ball. But Sheriff Ben Marsden, busy with work, joint custody of his son, and caring for his aging mother, has no plans to attend. Not until a pretty newcomer to his small town gets involved in the planning. Suddenly Ben finds himself wanting to keep a close eye on Jessica Ramsey, and not just because her relatives seem to be in jail more than out. He can tell the mysterious redhead has secrets in her past, but now that she's bought a little fixer upper with her mom to start a bed and breakfast, the whole family's turning over a new leaf. With the prospect of dancing and celebrating ahead, surely there's time for everyone to unwind. Because this year, more than ever, Ben's got Christmas--and loving--on his mind.