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

Francis had seen her eat more that evening than she had in days. It wasn’t healthy food, necessarily, but it was sustenance and every little bit she’d eat was a plus at this point.


“I’m glad I could give you two this, you’ve been so kind to Francis,” Mark said, making Francis’s heart jump.


Mark was obviously bashful after his comment, and Francis reached over to touch his wrist.


“Francis has been such an incredible help.” Henrietta smiled at them. “It feels good to have a bit more life in the house again.”


“It’s a big house,” Charles said, nodding sagely. “Moira always says we should have more people over, but who would we invite?”


“Oh yes, so many of our friends have passed away or live in homes, some have moved to live closer to their children and grandchildren.” Henrietta frowned, and Francis could see genuine sadness over their situation in her expression.


Chapter 63