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

Roast in the oven, potatoes peeled and ready to boil, and the beans washed and sitting in the colander, I picked up my phone and called Tru.


“Hey there!” He sounded happy to hear from me. “To what do I owe the honor of the call?”


I chuckled. I loved that he knew I was more apt to text than to actually speak to someone. “Got any plans for dinner?”


A beat of silence. “You want me and Fawkes to come over?”


I didn’t quite get the hesitancy in his tone, but that was fine. “Your pup is always welcome. Bring him, and he can keep Aldo entertained while we eat. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, and green beans okay with you?”


“Yes.” His quick reply made me grin harder. “When?”


“Roast has got another hour or so, so whenever you want is fine. We’ll be here.”


He sighed. “We’ll be there soon.”


I couldn’t stop smiling long after I hung up the phone.


Chapter 18