After declaring their love for each other on Christmas Day, Simon Peters and Mark Smith settle down to a cosy life of domestic togetherness. A new year brings new joys and challenges. Sam, a neighbour boy comes to stay for a few days and adopts Simon and Mark as honorary dads. A promotion at work gives Simon more responsibility. Mark finds employment at the local café. The purchase of a car allows the couple to get out and about to explore the Yorkshire countryside. Snuggle up in an easy chair and toast your toes in front of the fire as you read Simon and Mark’s continuing romantic adventures.

Fireside Romance Book 2: Burning Brighter

We looked over several cars; each time Harry would check the mileage and a myriad of other details. As time passed, I grew increasingly more pleased that I’d asked him to come along with us to give us the benefit of his experience. Neither Mark nor I would have had a clue. We’d have ended up buying something that quite possibly could have conked out before we’d got it home.


Harry had highlighted a number of vehicles in the catalogue that he thought were worth bidding for.


We made our way to the small tea stand in the auction room. I was ready for something to drink and, by the looks of them, so were Harry and Mark. Harry had refused to allow me to pay him for his time. The best I could do was to buy the man a large hot chocolate, Mark and I having the same.


“Look, Harry, when it comes to the bidding, would you do it for us? You know what my maximum bid is. I’d be too nervous to do it myself.”


I got the impression he was secretly pleased I’d asked. 


Chapter 22