Deputy Mark Forrest and Nurse Francis Archer can’t deny the chemistry that arises between them. A chance meeting awakens the idea of something greater than either had ever imagined.<br><br>Mark craves being able to let go, and Francis loves to take him out of his head. But Mark’s past bears a truckload of personal demons that have kept him in the closet and made him lash out at the LGBTQ community in the town he’s come to regard as home.<br><br>Despite finding love and a new purpose in Acker, Francis’s new job might end up being temporary, and he doesn't want to lose the life he's settled into. Can the two of them build a future together despite a bitter past, and diverging paths?

Thirteen

“Holy shit, Francis….” Kaos looked appalled.


They talked about the options Francis might have going forward. Kaos suggested that if things didn’t work out in New Jersey, he could always move to Acker. He told Francis he would be welcome to stay at Padraig’s house as a roommate.


They ended up spending a few hours going through the shops in Woodruff and Minocqua.


They were having lunch at a café when Kaos suddenly asked, “Do you have any tattoos?”


Francis shook his head. “No. There hasn’t been good enough reason so far. Something needs to happen or an idea needs to form…. In healthcare, they’re still frowned upon a lot, sadly.”


“Yeah, I know a lot of my clients back in Missouri only wanted ones they could hide with their work clothing.” He took a sip of his soda. “I mean, almost with any profession.”


“I wish tattoos were considered art. I mean, not all tattoos are, but I’ve seen some incredible pieces. Your portfolio is pretty awesome, too.”


Chapter 11