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

“This is great,” Mark said after coming down the slide.


“I think it does us good to regress to childhood now and again.”


A pained expression swept across Mark’s face. 


“I’m sorry, my angel, I know you want to forget some of your childhood.”


“I’m okay. I remember Mum would bring me to the park sometimes when I was little. It’s one of my fondest memories of her.”


“We don’t have to come here again if it’s too painful.” 


Mark shook his head. “Parks bring back happy memories, and I want to remember those times.”


I gave him a hug and was surprised when Sam joined in as well.


The weather was unseasonably bright and warm, so when we got to the pub we decided to sit outside in the beer garden. A few of the tubs had some early flowers out, but it wouldn’t be until June before the main blooms showed themselves. 


“I like it out here,” Mark said when I returned with our drinks.


Chapter 26