As the youngest of seven brothers, Hays Hart has never been first at anything—so he’s determined to be the first to marry. And after his father’s ultimatum, that each of his brothers marry before the end of 1874, Hays is more determined than ever. If he doesn’t marry, he risks losing his inheritance, a beautiful section of the family ranch. Hays sets his sights on the new teacher, Miss Emma Longley, but he soon discovers Emma wants nothing to do with marriage, ranching, or Texas and plans to leave Hartville in two short months. Will Hays’ charm be enough to convince her to stay?