Page 9 of Finding Forever in Cedarwood

“Ass.”

“Bye, Jeff.” He’d never really seen the attraction, other than Jeff could’ve been a model. Maybe that was Stone’s problem—he tended to go for handsome men instead of holding out for substance. Jeff had no substance.

He walked to his truck and unlocked the door.

“Excuse me.” A man strode up to him. “I’m new in town. Where did you get those?”

He met the gaze of the man. He’d never seen such brilliant blue eyes in his life. He stared at the man. Expensive haircut, perfect teeth and a tan…he was tall, too. Blood surged below Stone’s belly. He wanted to taste the guy’s kiss and feel his hands on his chest.Shit.He needed to get laid. A perfect stranger shouldn’t have this kind of effect on him. But he did.

The man smiled, sending jolts of electricity thorough Stone. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m too forward.”

“No.” Stone placed the bag on the seat. “I—you look familiar.” He’d seen this guy before.

“Oh?”

“Did you adopt the yellow lab on Thursday?” That had to be it. He’d only read through the adoption agreement, rather than being there. The information supplied by the adopters met the criteria for adoption and Amy had done the interviews. He’d only seen the couple in passing.

“No, I just got into town.” A smile lit up the man’s face. “I don’t have a dog, either.”

“Oh.” Shit. “I’m sorry. I’m Stone McCartney. I oversee the animal shelter here in Cedarwood.” He stuck out his hand. “If you’re looking for great gyros, then the food truck is right down the block. The prices are reasonable and they’re yum. You can’t lose.”Am I talking too much?

“Thank you. I’m Liam. I’m not in the market for a dog or cat, but if I change my mind, I’ll find you.” Liam grinned. “I’m glad I ran into you. You’re the first person who bothered to speak to me in return.”

“I’m sorry no one else spoke to you, but I’m glad you found me.” He touched Liam’s hand. The sparks intensified. He’d never had this reaction before. He shook hands with Liam. “What brought you to Cedarwood—if you don’t mind me asking? I can be too forward, too.”

“Work.” Liam didn’t release Stone’s hand right away. “Just work.”

“Well, enjoy that work.” He’d asked enough questions for now. He should head back before the gyros were cold. “Enjoy your food.”

“I will.” Liam didn’t walk away. “If I would call you, would you want to go for coffee some time?”

“Sure.” He could use another friend—especially one like Liam. “I’m game to show you around Cedarwood, if you’d like.”

“I would.” Liam winked. “I’m glad I ran into you. I was starting to think no one liked me. That feeling’s gone.”

“I’m glad you’re not lonely.” He slid behind the wheel of his truck. “Don’t be a stranger.” He waved.

As he drove away, he replayed the conversation in his mind.Don’t be a stranger?God.No wonder Arthur said he was dorky. Did anyone say that line anymore? But a coffee date! It wasn’t a real date, but close enough. He drove back to the shelter. He’d made a friend.

He’d never seen Liam around Cedarwood. But hadn’t Liam said he was new to town? His response to Liam, the tingles and desire, confused him. He had no idea if Liam was gay. He could be straight. He could keep things platonic.Well, shit.

He’d worry about Liam later. He had critters to care for and a shelter to run. Plus, he owed Amy her food.

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