Matt works on his grandfather Bill Hargrove's ranch and vineyard, handling horse training, breeding, and general labor. He possesses vibrant green eyes, a dark tan, and sun-bleached hair. After his mother passed away during his childhood, Matt was largely raised by his grandfather and his uncle, Daniel Ulrich, who shielded him from his emotionally abusive father and manipulative stepmother, Claire.
Pressured by his father to marry Chelsea Townsend for a business merger, Matt openly rebels against the arrangement. While in Vegas to celebrate his birthday, he meets Kenna, whom he feels an instant, powerful connection to. He proposes to her shortly after meeting, eager to build a genuine, loving life away from his father's toxic influence.