When firefighter Grady Ashcroft adopts his deceased sister’s son, he knows life will change. He never expected to be a dad, but he’ll give young Jamie his best, even if it means a celibate life in a new home. He does not expect to find the man of his dreams in the Colorado village where he takes a new job, either.<br><br>Sullivan Parker wanted to be chief of the Valle Vista fire department when the former chief was forced to leave. Instead, the town council hires a stranger from far away. Despite his resentment, Sully finds himself drawn to the newcomer. He also discovers a need to take Jamie and the spotted pup the former chief left behind under his wing.<br><br>Can the brotherhood of battling dangerous blazes morph into stronger feelings for the two men, or will conflict prevail?

Smoke and Spots

With steadier movements, Sully jerked the mask of his face. “I’m good,” he rasped. “Save it for her. She don’t look good at all.”


He stood steadily enough and reached to turn off the connection for the hose to the mask he’d removed. Then he wheeled around to start toward the main truck, which still pumped out water. At the same instant, a sudden crash shook them. Sparks flew as the barn folded in on itself. For a short time the fire leaped. However soon it subsided, much of its fuel clearly gone, while the rest of the ruined building was now saturated and cooling.


“Sit down and give yourself a break.” Grady roared out the order. “Things are under control and you fucking well aren’t going to risk more strain right now. That’s an order, in case I didn’t make it clear.”


Sully stopped, looking back with a poisonous glare. “I know my limits. I’m not going to endanger anyone. Leave me be.”


Chapter 7