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 bounded up the stairs and nearly ran into Marcus in the entryway. “Sorry. I need to get to the hospital. I just wanted to let you guys know.” He pivoted to leave.


“Wait,” Marcus said, grabbing his arm. “Why don’t I drive you? Let me check with Garrett first.”


Jacob practically vibrated, so anxious to leave. “I have a car. No worries.”


“You having a way there isn’t what I’m worried about, Jacob. You’re practically coming out of your skin with worry and I don’t think you’re in the right frame of mind to drive. Let me tell Garrett. I promise to make it quick.”


Shit.He took a deep breath because he knew Marcus was just being a good friend. “Okay, I’ll wait here.”


Marcus was true to his word, and minutes later they were on their way to Nixon City General.


The ride took only fifteen minutes, but Jacob was ready to scream by the time they arrived. Marcus pulled up to the Emergency Room doors and Jacob jumped out.


Chapter 45