Wyatt Janson needed a change of scenery in the worst way, so he packed up his dog and moved to a small tourist town. When he spots a man in a vermilion beanie, he’s intrigued. Why would someone would wear such a hat in the middle of summer? Their paths keep crossing, and Wyatt soon learns that Truitt Rackley owns a dog grooming and training service. It’s the perfect opportunity for Wyatt to meet Tru.<br><br>What begins as friendship quickly blossoms into more. But Tru’s happy demeanor hides a sad past. The hat he wears is only one part of it. Tru needs Wyatt’s support as he deals with the fallout, and Wyatt is glad to be able to provide it. Now that he’s found Tru, he knows he’ll do whatever he must to keep him. Can two broken men find the happily ever after they’ve been searching for?

One in Vermilion

For a long moment, Tru didn’t speak. All his attention was riveted to the scissors in his hand as he methodically wiped them. “He’s just a little…outdated, I guess. More old school. I don’t agree with some of his methods, but there’s no doubt he cares for the animals.”


I studied him for a long moment. Once again, I got the feeling there was more going on. I tried to decide if I should pry further or let it go. Knowing that I wanted what was best for Aldo, coupled with my earlier revelation that I wanted to count Tru as a friend, I asked softly, “Is there somewhere he can get better care?”


Chapter 6