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

The distance to the farm seemed shorter by daylight and in a vehicle less cumbersome than the massive tanker. When he drove in, no one seemed to be around. The horses still stood, tied where they’d been left.


Shit, I’d better try to get someone out here to take care of them; someone who knows what to do since I sure don’t. The closest I’ve been to horses was seeing them jog by in parades!


After he called Sandy, who assured him she’d get someone out there shortly, he began a slow tour of the ruined barn. A few faint wisps of smoke still trailed up from the blackened jumble, but the fire was out. The huge structure had been reduced to a tangle of half-burned wood and twisted metal roofing. There hadn’t been many windows, but all that was left of them was scattered globs of melted glass. In all, it was an ugly sight.


Chapter 9