Jacob Baumgardner is struggling to get his nonprofit shelter for gay teens off the ground because the building needs a lot of help before it can pass inspection. Raised by his grandparents for part of his life, Jacob feels that the shelter is his chance to honor them, but someone is making things difficult. An anonymous extortionist seems determined to ruin Jacob’s late grandfather’s good name and keep the shelter from opening.<br><br>Luka Smith is struggling to find his place in the world after a traumatic event in his teen years pushed him to run. When Jacob hires him to help with repairs at the shelter, Luka falls for his new boss hard. Luka wants nothing more than to help Jacob realize his dream.<br><br>As they work together to ensure The Promise of Hope Shelter gets off the ground, their feelings for each other only grow. But will a calculating blackmailer close the shelter before it even has a chance?

The Promise of Hope Shelter

He turned at the chuckle behind him and sucked in his breath when he saw Luka leaning against the doorjamb, watching him. He wore a plain gray T-shirt under his black leather jacket and faded jeans that looked worn and comfortable but tight enough to show off his…assets. Luka’s gaze traveled from Jacob’s wet hair, down his face, his neck, lingering at his smooth chest, then down his legs until he brought his gaze up to meet Jacob’s. Luka’s eyes were dark, and he licked his lips.


An image of a panther popped into Jacob’s head again. Only this time, that panther was looking at him like he was dinner.


“Sorry. I-I’m running a little late, I-I guess.”


“No need to apologize,” Luka said, his voice low and gravelly. “I’m early.” He sauntered in and stopped just inches from Jacob. “Looking for something to wear?”


“Personally, I like what you’re wearing now,” Luka whispered.


Chapter 13