Recent graduate Dr. Fenton Miller takes December off to decide which job offer to accept. Then he meets his landlord, sous chef John Barton. Suddenly, thinking about his career becomes his last priority. A better option might be a month-long roll between the sheets with John. While John is attracted to Fen and might even agree to his plan, John has got more pressing matters to worry about. His past has arrived in tiny Stone Acres from San Francisco and is intent on sucking him back into a life he hated. Promising to help John and shelter him if necessary, Fen finds he's also being threatened by a homophobic father who doesn't find Fen as entertaining as his kids do. As they wade through their problems during the happiest time of the year, Fen and John rely more and more on each other for happiness.

Short Order

That’s when Sheriff Campbell showed up.


“Had a little problem at the Limelight Bar, so I thought while I was in the neighborhood, I’d stop by and see if Leo Waterson has shown up lately.”


The sheriff looked tired, as if the holiday spirit had passed him by.


“No, I haven’t seen him. Have you?” John asked me.


“Well, keep an eye out for him. There’s an armed-and-dangerous warning out for him.” He turned to go, but I stopped him.


“C’mon in a second. We’ve got something for your kids—and you too if you like cookies.”


John had turned and was walking back toward the kitchen where my mom’s decorated goodie bags were.


“We’ve got people looking for Leo all over the state,” the sheriff told me. “He’s dangerous and doesn’t give up ground easily, so be careful. Be sure to tell your…”


Chapter 24