The start of the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire means Wes can finally get back to his seasonal job and distract himself from his recent messy break-up. There’s plenty for him to think about at the Faire, such as his role as a wandering flower merchant, the overwhelming August heat, and Carlo, who plays a handsome knight.<br><br>Carlo is the exact opposite of Wes’s ex, Phillip, who won’t let their relationship die easily. The young knight is sweet and caring and chivalrous, but Wes has sworn to himself he’s not ready to jump back into dating yet.<br><br>When Carlo collapses off his horse during a joust, Wes has to confront his own feelings for his new friend, as well as Phillip’s constant attempts to win him back.

Heat Wave: Manheim

“Here is your change, good sir,” Jared said, holding out the quarters.


“Thank you,” Wes said, temporarily losing his lighthearted nature as he scowled down at his phone. Snapping back to his job, he said, much more affably, “I shall empty this into my flask and dispose of the bottle in a proper waste receptacle!”


“See that you do,” said Jared. “We must keep the realm clean. Wouldn’t want His Majesty to trip over common trash as he walks among his people!”


“Indeed. Farewell, noble pickle vendor.”


“Fare thee well, sweet flower merchant.”


Chapter 3