Chapter 4

John had only moved to Morro Bay after the accident that took his first career. He’d been part of the San Luis Obispo Fire Department for thirteen years before he fell through a burning roof, wrecking his left leg. He missed it sometimes. The adrenaline pumping through his veins as the fire alarm sounded.

Living here, by himself no less, had been a big adjustment. His relationship with his boyfriend of five years at the time had also been a casualty of his accident. Keith loved his active lifestyle too much to give it up for John. Didn’t need someone who could barely walk some days cramping his style.

Sure, there were times when John wondered why Keith didn’t love him enough to stick around, but for the most part, he’d moved on from the heartache. His friends told him it was Keith’s loss and John decided they were right.

The sound of the sliding door opening on the deck next door had him looking to his left curiously. Last occupants had been a couple and their four kids.