Five years ago, British transplant, Jude, left San Francisco after the tragic murder of his lover, Martin. Heartbroken, he settled in Sutter's Bay and opened a small flower shop, hoping that surrounding himself with bright colors and pretty things -- living things -- would somehow lessen the anguish he felt over his loss.<br><br>Jude never expects to find a love like he shared with Martin ever again. Certainly a love like theirs won't come along twice in a lifetime. But then Jude meets sexy Rex Warner, the new veterinarian in Sutter's Bay, and he can't help but wonder if his luck has changed.<br><br>Will Rex be able to stop Jude from dwelling on the painful past and look toward a promising future instead?

Twice in a Lifetime

Rex spotted him down about half a block from the restaurant, standing at a railing, looking out to sea. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his light windbreaker, he made his way down to wear Jude stood.


Jude didn’t turn but he could tell by his shaky breath he knew Rex was there. As much as it hurt Rex that Jude didn’t want to go with him to Texas, it hurt him more to see Jude upset.


“Jude, it’s okay. You don’t have to come with me.” He rubbed Jude’s shoulders.


“No, it’s not. I’m sorry.” Jude turned and met his gaze. His eyes were red, but determined. “I acted like an arse, Rex. I’ll go.”


A spark of hope burst in his heart. “Really? Are you sure?”


Jude smiled and nodded. “Positive. I still think you’re a bit out of your belfry for driving, but yes, I’m coming.”


Rex pulled him close. It was on the tip of his tongue to tell Jude he loved him, but each step with Jude seemed to have to be baby steps. A month and a half was plenty long enough for Rex to know how he felt, though.


Chapter 26