Jim Newsome is the CEO of a food services consulting firm, working primarily for the healthcare industry. He wears a shoe lift due to a childhood accident that shortened his leg. Whenever he acquires a new client -- typically a hospital -- Jim goes undercover to get a firsthand look at the problems before reporting his findings, and possible solutions. His current assignment hasn’t been an easy one, and Jim’s relieved it will all be over at the end of the week. Then Jim meets Lance Lamas, an orthopedic specialist. Lance tries to strike up a conversation, but Jim isn’t playing nice. But Lance’s relentless pursuit pays off, and the two men go out on a double date with friends. The evening ends in the best way possible, and when Jim reveals who he really is, Lance knows he wants to keep him -- shoe lift, dirty mouth, and all.

To Lift My Sole

Always the last word, with that guy. It occurred to me that I didn’t mind.


Exactly as I anticipated, I encountered a variety of disbelieving expressions as I entered the hospital lobby early Monday morning. The valet who parked my car, the security guard who gaped at me when I said “good morning” as I walked past him—all were shocked by my transformation. If Lance were here, I knew he’d be humping my leg. It was probably perverse how sweet I thought that would be.


The receptionist at the front desk on the executive floor gave me a huge smile and welcome, probably thinking her buxom exterior and good looks would worm her way into my pockets. Not so. I remained unmoved as I told her my name and why I was here. Realizing that I wouldn’t fall for her sweet self, she abruptly rose and led me to the conference room in a huff. I thanked her and ignored her affronted expression as I booted up my laptop to prepare for the coming meeting.


Chapter 12