Fires are blazing across southern Utah, and Aaron Meyers, volunteer firefighter, knows he should be concentrating on the flames. Unfortunately, he's too distracted by former crush, and current New York City fireman, Xander Wescott.<br><br>Xander returns to Utah to help battle the flames threatening his hometown. He remembers Aaron as the gangly kid who used to follow him around, and he's unprepared for just how much he wants to know the man Aaron has become.

Scorched

“I meant what I said,” Xander whispered.


“I know.” Aaron sighed and relaxed against Xander, letting the other man support him for a few moments. “I wish things were…well, I guess you know what I wish.”


“I know you don’t think so, but…I’m sorry I brought this on you. Eddie was right about one thing. You weren’t even thinking of leaving before I opened my big mouth.”


“Doesn’t matter. I never intended to be alone my whole life. I would have found some guy to fall for. Eddie would have found out, and the result would have been the same.” Aaron’s throat felt raw. “It’s not you that brought this on. It’s me.”


“So I’m just some guy, huh?” His teasing tone was an obvious attempt to lighten the mood. “Well, as long as I’m your guy, I guess I can’t complain.”


Chapter 28