One Night Flame

My grandmother spent a thousand dollars on the town’s hottest firefighter—for me. I never expected him to show up for everything that came after.

Between teaching first grade and raising my six-year-old son alone, I barely have time to sleep, let alone date.

My grandmother has other ideas.

One outrageous bid at Huckleberry Creek’s firefighter bachelor auction buys me a date with Cord “Hollywood” Gaffney—the charming, golden-haired heartthrob who looks as if he stepped straight out of a calendar. For one night, I let myself forget the lesson plans, laundry, and little boy waiting at home. I don’t tell Cord I’m a mother. I just want a few hours to be Lucy again.

Dinner becomes dancing. Dancing becomes a kiss. And one scorching night leaves me wanting something I have no room in my life to risk.

Then a school field trip brings me face-to-face with Cord at the fire station—and introduces him to the son I never mentioned.

Cord has one rule: No single moms. His own childhood taught him exactly how much damage the wrong man can do to a family, and he’s convinced walking away is the safest choice.

But when real life knocks me flat, Cord doesn’t run. He shows up. No performance. No hesitation. He steps into the mess and takes care of everything I’m too exhausted to carry alone.

One night with Hollywood was supposed to be harmless.
Letting him become the man my son and I can count on could cost me everything.