Dog Days of Summer

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER by Pender Mackie CHAPTER ONE Levi apologized to his vet. “Thanks. Sorry he was such a pain in the butt. The way he was shaking, you’d never guess he was just getting his shots.” Whirlwind’s tail was between his legs and he hid behind Levi— probably getting hair all over his jeans. He bent down to rub his dog’s head. “Come on buddy, don’t be a wuss. It wasn’t that bad.” The vet laughed. “For a young dog he was pretty good.” Levi smiled. “If you say so. Thanks again.” He opened the examination room’s door. The leash ran through his fingers as his golden retriever squeezed though the door, then streaked down the hall and around the corner, towards the waiting room and the front door beyond. Levi chased after his dog. “Whirlwind!” He rounded the corner and stopped. A dark-haired man was on his knees, his arms wrapped around the retriever and his face pressed into Whirlwind’s shoulder. Whirlwind’s tail waved to and fro as the man stroked him and murmured words Levi couldn’t hear. Levi hesitated. It was one thing to pet someone else’s dog but to kneel and hug him? That was a little weird. As he approached slowly, the man spoke. “Is he yours? He’s gorgeous.” Levi stared into the prettiest eyes he’d ever seen. Maybe pretty was the wrong word. With his tousled black hair and five o’clock shadow, the man looked too

rugged for any part of him to be described as pretty, but his eyes were beautiful, a deep, soulful brown. Like melted chocolate. Levi’s expression softened. “Yeah. He is.” The man gave him a lopsided smile and Levi felt something move in his chest. He raised his hand and rubbed at his shirt, but the unsettling feeling had already passed. The man stood and offered Whirlwind’s leash. Levi smiled back. “Thanks.” There was something in the man’s other hand. At first Levi thought it was a black bandana or a small towel, but as the man straightened he saw it was a leash, folded over until it was only about six inches long. “Hey, you’ve got a dog too.” The other man’s face twisted. He bent his head and swiped at his face with back of his hand. What the hell? Levi didn’t want to get involved but he felt some sort of response was necessary. “Are you okay?” “Yeah. It’s…I have to go back inside in a couple of minutes to…say goodbye. They’re making her comfortable first.” He raised his head and smiled at Levi, but it wasn’t a real smile. He still looked heartbroken. Shit! Levi felt like a jerk. He should have known something was up. “I’m sorry,” he said, knowing the words were hopelessly inadequate. “Thanks.”

Whirlwind whined and butted the man’s hand with his head. Once again the man bent and petted his dog. Levi waited, giving him some time. He wondered if the guy was going to be okay. If he had a wife and kids crying their eyes out at home. He’d only had Whirlwind for just over a year but he couldn’t imagine life without him. He was trying to figure out what to say or do next when the door to the examination room beside them opened. A man in a white lab coat, obviously a vet, stuck his head out of the door. “Lacey’s resting now, Shea; if you want to sit with her.” The man took a deep breath. “Yeah.” He looked at Levi and smiled. “Take good care of him.” “Sure. Take it easy.” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Levi regretted them. The man was about to sit in a tiny, impersonal room and watch his dog’s life fade away and he’d told the guy to take it easy? He had a real way with words. The other man didn’t seem to notice. He gave Levi another small smile. “Thanks.” He turned and entered the examination room. Levi made his way to the reception area to pay his bill. He thought of the dark-haired man as he was watching TV later that night, and again as he took Whirlwind out one last time before bed. He hoped the guy was doing okay. Levi wasn’t big on the soft, doe-eyed look. He preferred men that met his gaze coolly as they sized each other up. He’d been checked out plenty of times and done his fair share of scoping out men in return. He knew what to do when a man’s eyes gleamed with appreciation and lust. He’d returned that look enough times right before some hot, sweaty sex.

But it had been different at the animal hospital. Levi hadn’t known how to respond. When the other dog owner had looked at Levi, his eyes had shone with unshed tears not desire. Levi had felt helpless. Those sorrowful brown eyes had spoken to him. He’d wanted to do something, anything he could, just so the man would stop looking so wounded. CHAPTER TWO Shea pushed himself a little harder as he started up the incline. He hadn’t run this far for a long time and at first it had been hard. It was easier now, though he’d only started running again after Lacey died. Towards the end Lacey wasn’t able to walk without pain let alone run. Shea had felt guilty every time he’d gone out without her, but even a bathroom break had been an ordeal for the yellow lab. She’d been a dignified old lady though, right to the end. Shea couldn’t believe she’d already been gone for over six weeks. He still missed her almost every day, especially on long, lonely weekends. The incline gave way to a small plateau and he paused to drink from his water bottle. To his left the land rose and dipped in a series of small hills. To his right, the park flattened out. He could see the parking lot and the pond from up here. Off in the distance, near the pond, a young woman walked her dog. Shea watched them and missed Lacey all over again. **** “Come on Whirlwind. Let’s get you some exercise.” Levi clipped on the leash. Whirlwind wagged his tail, eager to go. Levi loaded his dog into the back of the car, making sure Whirlwind was secure. He wished he’d bought a bigger car but he hadn’t realized he’d be the owner of a large dog when he bought this one and he sure as hell couldn’t afford to upgrade.

It was a beautiful sunny July afternoon. For once he hadn’t pulled the Saturday shift at the restaurant and Levi had nothing to do and nowhere he had to be. He’d give them both a treat and drive over to Green Hills Park. Even though it was hot out, there’d probably be a breeze. The park was over five square miles with plenty of paths for cyclists, joggers and dog walkers. Best of all, dogs were allowed to run off leash in designated areas. Whirlwind loved Green Hills and since his apartment was stifling, they’d both enjoy the fresh air. Whirlwind started whining excitedly as soon as they pulled into the parking lot. “I know, me too,” Levi told him. He got out of the car and made sure he had a good grip on the leash before letting the car’s back door open all the way. Whirlwind scrambled out and pulled eagerly, directly towards the road and the houses on the other side. “Idiot,” Levi said fondly. “You’ve got a whole park and you head straight for traffic. Come on, let’s go this way and I’ll give you a run.” He turned them towards the low-lying hills. Soon they were deep in the park. Occasionally they met a jogger or were overtaken by a cyclist. Whirlwind trotted ahead at the end of his leash, crisscrossing the path, snuffling in the grass and peeing every time he came to something he could cock his leg at. At the top of a small hill Levi stopped. He couldn’t see anyone around. There were no other dogs or wildlife so it looked safe to let Whirlwind off leash. He pulled a tennis ball from the pocket of his cargo shorts. “Sit.” Whirlwind sat and looked at him happily, his tail sweeping the path. Levi took off the leash. “Behave or I’ll put this right back on.” The retriever got to his feet, almost vibrating in anticipation, his eyes fastened on the tennis ball.

Levi threw the ball, watching the dog chase after it. He brought it back and dropped it at Levi’s feet and Levi threw it again. Ten minutes later Whirlwind showed no sign of losing interest, but Levi was tired of picking up a ball soggy with dog slobber. He threw it as hard as he could. The ball bounced down the hill. Whirlwind raced after it, barreling along the path. Levi saw the jogger come around the bend. Seventy pounds of friendly retriever veered away from ball and headed straight for him. Levi ran down the hill, horrified as Whirlwind danced around the jogger, barking and wagging his tail. The man stopped, he could hardly move forward, and bent to pat Whirlwind who started licking his face. “Whirlwind!” The dog ignored him. Levi reached the bottom of the hill. “I’m so sorry.” The jogger grinned up at him. “No problem.” Levi stared, the leash dangling uselessly from his fingers. He recognized those gorgeous brown eyes right away. It was the guy from the animal hospital. The one whose dog had been put to sleep. The man straightened and reached out. For a crazy moment Levi thought he was going to take his hand and his heart leapt. Instead the man caught the end of the leash and attached it to Whirlwind’s collar. Whirlwind dropped to the ground. He lay between them panting, his tongue hanging out of the side of his mouth. “I’m really sorry,” Levi said again. “No harm done.”

“Right.” Levi suppressed a wince. He’d stepped wrong on the way down the hill and pulled something. The initial bright flare of pain had dulled to a steady ache, but the leg couldn’t support his full weight without hurting. He kept his weight on his other foot and focused on the attractive man in front of him. “You and your dog seem really familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?” Shit. Levi really hadn’t wanted to bring that up. “We met at the vet’s a while back.” The man’s smiled faltered. “Oh.” “I’m Levi and this is Whirlwind,” he said quickly. He gave the man a bright smile as he wiped his hand on his shorts before he held it out. He hoped it wasn’t still sticky from dog saliva. “Shea.” They shook hands. Shea was wearing shorts and a tank top, the kind that serious runners wore. There was a lot of tanned muscular thigh on display and the tank top clung to his chest and flat stomach. His skin was lightly sheened with sweat, but he wasn’t breathing very hard. Levi dragged his eyes up to Shea’s face. “I’m sorry we interrupted your run.” Shea shrugged. “It’s okay. I was on my cool down anyway.” “Oh. Well, nice meeting you again.” This time he did wince. Considering the last time they’d met that was a stupid thing to say. “My pleasure.”

Shea smiled at Levi, something in his gaze making Levi aware that the attraction wasn’t one-sided. He’d seen that look enough times to recognize it. Though Shea was much more subtle than any of the guys Levi had hooked up with at a club. He might not even be aware he was broadcasting his interest. He’d have liked to talk to Shea. Try to get a feel for whether or not Shea was willing to have some fun, but his ankle was throbbing. He could feel sweat starting on his forehead. Shea must have picked up on something in his body language because he asked, “Are you okay?” “Yeah. Sure. Don’t let us keep you.” Levi willed Shea to leave so he could limp back to his car. Forget looking for the ball. Even if he took the shortest route to the parking lot, he had a good walk ahead of him. “Okay.” Shea frowned. Maybe he didn’t like being dismissed. “Nice to meet you. Bye, Whirlwind.” Shea loped away and turned to wave after a few feet. Levi waved back and made a show of petting Whirlwind. He waited till Shea was out of sight before he started down the path. He hadn’t sprained his ankle, but he’d wrenched something. Maybe his Achilles tendon. “This sucks,” he told the dog. “If I hadn’t messed up my ankle I could have asked for his number, maybe hooked up with him. I don’t get as much as I used to since you came along. Actually, I don’t get any.” Whirlwind ignored him, nose to the ground as he padded along, waving his tail from side to side happily. Levi still had a long way to go when he heard the slap, slap, slap of feet approaching from behind. He hobbled over to the side of the path. The runner was Shea. He slowed to a walk and watched Levi with concern. “You’re limping.”

Levi stopped and suppressed a grimace. “It’s not too bad.” “Do you want some help?” “No, I’m good.” “Okay.” Shea didn’t move and after a moment Levi realized he was waiting for him. He limped along as Shea walked beside him. Shea seemed content to let Levi make his own way. He didn’t offer his help again or say anything to make Levi feel more embarrassed than he already was. Levi realized he was glad to have the other man’s company, which was kind of surprising considering the circumstances. A minute or two later a butterfly rose up out of the grass beside the path and Whirlwind lunged at it. Levi wasn’t expecting the sudden movement. Whirlwind pulled him off balance forcing Levi to take all of his weight on his sore ankle. “Ow, fuck.” Shea grabbed him by the upper arm to steady him. “Thanks. Sorry,” Levi said. Shea was still holding his arm. He let go almost reluctantly. “It’s worse than you said. At least let me take Whirlwind.” “Okay.” He handed over the leash. They made their way slowly towards the parking lot. Levi was aware of Shea watching him from the corner of his eye. Probably waiting to see if he was going to make it without asking for help. He grit his teeth and kept going. Levi pointed. “My car’s just over there.”

Shea gave him an exasperated look. “Can you drive?” Levi shrugged. He didn’t have much choice. “Sure.” “Look. I just live across the street. Why don’t you come with me and we can ice your ankle?” Levi tilted his head, considering. He was attracted to the other man though he wasn’t the type Levi usually went for. Shea was good-looking in a healthy, eatshis-vegetables kind of way, but he was so far out of Levi’s league it was laughable. He opened his mouth to refuse politely and surprised himself by accepting the offer. From the look on Shea’s face he’d surprised him too. CHAPTER THREE After a brief discussion they decided to drive over to Shea’s house. Shea drove out of the parking lot and across the street to a small, freshly painted house with a tidy front yard. “Wait here a second.” Shea unlocked the front door then came back and got Whirlwind as Levi carefully got out of the car. Shea helped Levi hobble down a short hall and into the living room. “I’ll get Whirlwind some water. He can stay in here, but he’d probably be happier in the backyard.” Levi hesitated. What if Whirlwind dug up some flowers or escaped? Shea interpreted his expression correctly. “Don’t worry, it’s dog friendly and fenced. He can’t do any damage or get out of the yard. There’s plenty of shade

too.” “Alright. Thanks.” He sank down gratefully onto a dark brown leather couch. The inside of the house was cool after being outside in the heat of the sun. “Hey, Whirlwind. You want some water? Come on.” Shea made that clucking sound that all dogs respond to and Whirlwind followed him out of the room, his nails clicking on the hardwood as he padded down the hall. Shea came back with a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a kitchen towel. “Here. I’m going to have a quick shower. I’ll be right back.” Levi nodded and slipped off his shoe and sock. He rested his foot on an oversized ottoman and looked around. Shea was a minimalist. His living room was painted a soft white, with polished hardwood floors. A bookcase full of paperbacks was against one wall, but too far away for Levi to read the books’ titles. A flat screen TV was mounted on the wall across from the couch, with a complicated-looking stereo on a cabinet beneath the TV. The room looked clean and uncluttered. He couldn’t tell for sure, but there were no obvious signs that more than one person lived here. Levi inspected his ankle. There wasn’t a lot of swelling but the back of his leg, just above his heel, felt hot and tender to his touch. “How’s the foot?” Shea’s hair was still damp and looked like he’d just finger combed it. He was barefoot and wearing shorts and cotton t-shirt. Levi had thought he’d looked good sweaty, but fresh from the shower Shea looked great. “It’s sore but I didn’t do much damage.” Shea sat on the edge of the ottoman. He bent over Levi’s leg and inspected it. “Mind if I take a look?”

Levi shook his head, temporarily tongue-tied. Shea was so close the fabric of his shorts brushed the hair on Levi’s leg. The sensation was surprisingly erotic. Shea moved as if to touch Levi’s leg. “Can I?” Levi unstuck his tongue from the roof of his mouth. “Yeah.” Shea picked up Levi’s leg and rested it on his thigh. Levi felt heat blossom in his belly and his dick started to pay attention. Shea’s hands felt cool as he ran them over his ankle. Levi swallowed. It had been a long time since anyone had touched him so carefully. “I think maybe I pulled my Achilles tendon,” he offered. “I think you’re right.” Shea was giving him that look again. Did he even know he was doing it? Levi wasn’t sure but his dick liked the possibility. “You should ice it for a while then I could wrap it for you. It would be more comfortable, at least for the drive home.” “Thanks, that’d be great.” Reluctantly he removed his leg from Shea’s warm, firm thigh and rested it on the bag of frozen peas. “You want something to drink? I have milk or juice.” Shea looked apologetic. “I’d offer you a beer, but you probably shouldn’t have any alcohol if you’re planning on taking any anti-inflammatories or pain killers.” “Juice is fine. Thanks.” “Okay.” Shea stood. “One orange juice with a side of sports wrap coming right up.” He left the room and Levi leaned against the back of the couch and closed

his eyes. His ankle wasn’t the only thing that was starting to swell. **** Shea dug through his first aid kit. He knew he’d met Levi before. He remembered those eyes and that smile though he hadn’t remembered they’d met at the animal hospital. He couldn’t really be blamed for that. The day he’d lost Lacey had probably been the worst day of his life. He hadn’t even remembered the drive home. At the park when he’d stopped patting Whirlwind and looked up, Shea had been attracted immediately. Levi was slender and tall, around Shea’s height, with soft-looking, brown hair that curled attractively around his ears and the collar of his t-shirt. His eyes were a dark blue, almost indigo. Shea had wanted to ask for his name and phone number but he wasn’t sure how to go about it without sounding like he was cruising. Then Levi had introduced himself and Shea had half of the problem solved. He’d thought Levi had been interested too but he wasn’t sure. When Levi had pretty much told him to leave, Shea had taken the hint and gone on his way. Halfway down the next hill he’d decided to turn around and try again. Shea found the sports wrap and grabbed a bottle of Advil. Thanks to Whirlwind’s dog tag he had Levi’s phone number. He wasn’t normally this aggressive, but he really didn’t want Levi to get away. When he came back to the living room Levi sat up. He’d obviously been lying back. The ankle was probably hurting more than he showed. Especially after walking on it all the way back to the parking lot. Shea offered the glass of orange juice, getting a cheap thrill as he deliberately brushed Levi’s fingers when he handed it over. Levi’s dark blue eyes flicked up to his face and though it took effort, Shea met

and held his gaze. “Thanks,” Levi said. “Can you take ibuprofen?” “Yeah.” “Great.” Shea handed him a bottle. He watched as Levi shook two pills out and swallowed them with the juice. His own juice sat forgotten on the end table. The movement of the other man’s throat as he drank was sensual. Shea wanted to kiss and lick all the way up that column of tanned flesh to taste Levi’s mouth. “Did you bring the sports wrap?” Shea started guiltily. He flushed and Levi’s lips twitched. “Yeah. I can tape your ankle now, if you want.” “Sure.” Levi was looking at him with amusement but there was hunger too. Shea took a quick drink of his juice to cover his embarrassment. He put the glass down and tugged the sports tape from the pocket of his shorts. He knelt beside Levi’s leg and used the kitchen towel to dry off his foot. Shea had played a lot of sports in high school: Tennis, basketball, soccer, even hockey. He had plenty of practice taping up sports injuries. He smoothed the end of the tape in place and sat back to check his work. He’d done a pretty competent job.

Levi had large feet, brown with tan lines from sandals though he’d been wearing socks and runners today. They were nice looking feet, at least this one was. Shea thought it was safe to assume the other foot would look pretty similar. “Shea?” Levi’s voice was soft. “Hmm?” He realized he’d been stroking the instep of Levi’s foot. He pulled his hand away hastily. “Sorry.” Levi put his foot on the floor. He put some weight on it, testing. “Feels good. Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” Shea was stilling kneeling in front of the couch. He shifted to get to his feet, but Levi put a hand on his shoulder. Shea looked up questioningly and Levi leaned forward and kissed him.

**** Levi covered Shea’s mouth with his own. Shea made a surprised sound but he didn’t pull away. Levi went on kissing Shea, enjoying the feel of warm, soft lips. He hadn’t been sure this was the right move, but Shea put a hand on Levi’s thigh and kissed him back, small open-mouthed kisses on his upper lip, the corner of his mouth. Levi put his hands under Shea’s arms and hauled him up onto the couch. “Oh.” Shea blinked at him, his eyes wide and dark, the pupils dilated. Levi could feel Shea’s heartbeat under his hand. Thumping away against his ribs. Shea licked his lips, a quick unconscious action. “This okay?” Levi asked. Shea’s gazed dropped to Levi’s mouth and he flushed. “Yeah.”

Levi leaned in. Shea tilted his chin and closed his eyes, his eyelashes dark crescents against his cheeks. Somehow it seemed such a trusting gesture. It reminded Levi that he wasn’t in some dark, smoky club making out with a faceless stranger. Even as he touched his tongue to the seam of Shea’s lips he wondered if he was going too fast for the other man, but Shea opened to him immediately. Levi kissed him gently. Shea tasted of oranges; tart and sweet and a very nice change from booze and cigarettes. In the air-conditioned room his skin felt warm through the thin cotton of his shirt and he smelled clean, like soap or shampoo. Levi slid his hands down to Shea’s hips. He pulled him closer then eased him down and back. Shea went with the movement, his hands stroking Levi’s biceps. He pushed up Shea’s shirt and rubbed the pads of his thumbs over Shea’s nipples. Shea moaned into Levi’s mouth and his nipples contracted to hard points under Levi’s teasing touch. “Feels good, hmm?” Levi trailed his mouth down Shea’s chest, the body under his hands and lips smooth and firm. He nipped at Shea’s flesh and scraped his teeth over those small, sensitive nubs. Levi worked the fly of Shea’s shorts and gently bit down on one diamondhard nipple. Shea gasped and arched under him. Levi used Shea’s movement to tug his shorts and briefs down. He looked down at Shea’s erection: Beautiful. Levi lowered his head and swallowed him to the base of his cock as Shea made a dazed, helpless sound. He grabbed for Levi, gripping his shoulders. At one time Levi had been pretty good at this. He sucked and tongued as he bobbed his head. He took his time, drawing the pleasure of the act out for both of them. Shea gripped his shoulders hard enough to hurt and underneath Levi

his body was trembling. Levi palmed then squeezed his balls gently and Shea bucked and cried out as he spilled warm, salty-sweet fluid into Levi’s mouth. He smiled around that pulsing cock. It was nice to know he still had it. Levi licked Shea clean then sat up, watching as Shea’s breathing slowed and his chest stopped heaving. Shea opened his eyes. “Oh my God. Thank you. That was the most…I’ve never...” He flushed. Levi grinned. “My pleasure.” Shea looked at Levi from under his lashes. “I can do that for you, if you like.” Levi’s grin widened. “I like.” Shea fastened his shorts as Levi lay back, resting at an angle against the back of the couch. He held the other man’s eyes as he unzipped and opened his own shorts, pulling his t-shirt up out of the way. Shea’s eyes dropped to his crotch. He crawled between Levi’s legs and knelt. His hands touched Levi’s stomach lightly and he looked up. “Is your ankle okay like this?” “What ankle?” Shea laughed and bent his head. He kissed Levi’s stomach; feathery light kisses as he worked his way down. He mouthed Levi’s dick, sucking the head through the damp cotton of his underwear. Levi’s hips twitched and he gripped the edge of the couch. “That feels good.” Shea pulled his underwear down and grasped his dick near the base. Levi thought maybe he wasn’t sure what to do next. He was about to tell Shea not to worry, to use his hand if he wasn’t comfortable with using his mouth, when

Shea wrapped his lips around the head and sucked hard. Levi groaned from deep in his chest as Shea slid his mouth up and down Levi’s cock, using his lips, his tongue, even his teeth. Levi fought off his orgasm as Shea swallowed around him, his throat massaging Levi’s dick. Why the hell had he thought Shea might not know what he was doing? The man put Levi’s own pretty impressive skills to shame. The hot slide of Shea’s lips and tongue, the rasp of stubble against the sensitive skin of his groin. It felt so good. Shea was so sexy, so hot. Levi’s thighs and belly tensed. “Shea…” He reached out to stroke the dark, damp hair and Shea lifted his head and held his gaze as he flicked his tongue over and around the head of Levi’s cock. Somewhere in the room a phone started ringing. Levi cursed but Shea ignored the phone, taking him in deeper. The sight of his dick sliding in and out of that sweet, skilled mouth was almost enough to push him over the edge but it was Shea’s eyes watching him as he sucked and licked that did. Levi lay on the couch panting and shuddering as Shea licked at him like a cat lapping at cream. The phone had stopped ringing and the answering machine kicked in. Levi barely heard Shea’s recorded message. He was still recovering from one of the most intense orgasms he’d ever had. “…so leave me a message and I’ll get back to you.” The machine beeped. “Shea, it’s William.” Shea tensed and sat up. “I know you’ve been busy, but I have tickets to the theatre next Friday and I’m hoping you’re free.” The voice went on, its tone persuasive. “We could have dinner first. Maybe that little Italian place we went to on our first date. Call me. Or I’ll call you at work.”

The machine clicked off. Shea got up and walked over to the answering machine. The line of his back and shoulders radiated tension. He pushed a button and the machine announced it had deleted all messages. Levi stood up and straightened his clothes. He wasn’t surprised Shea was involved with someone. Guys like Shea didn’t do random hook-ups with strangers. They were in long-term relationships with other men just like them. Guys with good jobs and disposable income. Except Shea was having sex with him while his boyfriend was leaving a message. Levi couldn’t figure out why that hurt. Shea gave him a pleading look. “Levi, it’s not what you think. William and I—” “I get it. It’s cool.” He picked up his discarded sock and stuffed it into his pocket then bent to put on his shoe, wincing as he accidentally jolted his ankle. “Lot’s of couples have open relationships. It’s no big deal.” “I’m not in an open relationship.” Levi frowned. “Well, then I guess this can be our dirty little secret.” “I’m not seeing William.” Levi laughed. Even to his own ears his laugh sounded forced. “That’s not what it sounded like.” He was being a dick but he couldn’t help it. For a few minutes he’d actually considered asking for Shea’s phone number, maybe seeing him again, but the call had reminded him of their differences. Shea had financial stability. One look around and it was obvious he had a good job—probably a career. He liked to exercise. Hell, he probably ate right and got eight hours of sleep every night. They had nothing in common. Well maybe one

thing. They both gave great head. Shea scowled and grabbed his arm. “You’re not listening. We broke up months ago.” Levi shook him off. “Trouble in paradise? Someone couldn’t keep it in his pants?” Shea blanched. Levi’s gut twisted with guilt but he ignored it. “Lucky for you it sounds like he wants you back.” The hurt in Shea’s eyes made him feel like an asshole. Shea spoke. “I didn’t cheat on him and I’m not interested in getting back with him. I was hoping maybe you and I could…start something.” Levi closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened them he had himself under control. He made it as clear as he could without being rude. “I don’t think so. I’m tired and my ankle is sore. I’d like to go home now so if you could get Whirlwind I’d appreciate it.” Shea’s expression turned frosty. He turned and left the room without saying anything. Levi told himself he was doing the right thing. Shea should be with the guy that called, or someone just like him. A man that could buy expensive theatre tickets and take him to elegant restaurants. Not someone that worked in one. He was already standing at the front door when Shea came back. Shea looked frustrated and unhappy. “Levi—” Levi cut him off. “Thanks for the juice and the first aid.” He opened the door

and limped to his car. He could feel Shea watching him as he loaded Whirlwind into the back. He was still standing at his front door as Levi started the car. He drove away without looking back. CHAPTER FOUR Shea called the next day while Levi was at work. He listened to the message on his break and wondered how Shea had gotten his number. Shea asked about Levi’s ankle. He sounded casual and friendly and didn’t mention anything about getting together or dating. Levi thought about calling him back. Thanks to Shea’s ice treatment and tape job, he hadn’t missed work. His ankle was sore, but it was holding up. It would be simple good manners to call and thank him, but he didn’t have time. He had to go home to walk and feed Whirlwind before the dinner shift started. Levi added Shea’s phone number to his contacts. He’d call later. By the time he got off work he’d convinced himself it was too late to call. Shea probably had a nice normal nine-to-five job and would most likely be asleep. He shied away from the image of Shea in bed; naked and tangled in his sheets, dark hair disheveled against his pillow. It wasn’t a good idea to think of Shea like that. The next day it was almost time to go to work and Levi still hadn’t returned Shea’s call. He told himself he’d been busy with errands and chores but it wasn’t true. He’d been procrastinating. He wasn’t sure he could say no if Shea actually asked him out and he was afraid to find out how disappointed he’d be if Shea didn’t. He couldn’t seem to figure out what he wanted. Disgusted with himself, he grabbed his phone and called before he could lose his nerve. He gripped the phone with a sweaty hand, his heart hammering against his chest as the phone rang and rang. When his call went to voicemail Levi hung up without leaving a message. It was stupid to set himself up for a broken heart. Shea made him want things

he wasn’t sure he could have. If they dated and he fucked it up or if Shea got tired of him… It was better not to take the risk. Shea phoned again the next day. Levi saw the call display and his heart went into overdrive. It was ridiculous how his body reacted when he saw Shea’s name on his phone. He stared at the screen with a kind of grim fascination until the ringing stopped. Seconds later he had voicemail. “Levi…” Shea paused for so long Levi thought the call had been dropped. “…never mind.” Shea hung up. Shea sounded tired and defeated. Levi felt an almost overwhelming desire to call him back, but was it a good idea? He’d never had a relationship. Levi was a good-time guy, the life of the party. He’d used to joke with his friends that they weren’t the marrying kind. It had been funny then, but now it was just kind of depressing. But he knew he wasn’t the kind of guy Shea dated. He was rudderless, irresponsible. It ran in his family. His sister Jessie was even worse. She’d been unemployed and living with the latest in a long line of boyfriends when she’d bought Whirlwind on impulse at a farmers’ market and brought him over to show Levi. “He doesn’t have papers so I got him cheap. He’s such a cutie. Isn’t he, Levi?” “He’ll be a lot of work, Jessie,” Levi had warned as he stroked the puppy’s soft fur. Whirlwind had looked up at him, wagging his stubby little tail and trying to lick Levi’s fingers. Jessie scoffed. “Nah. Just look at him. He’s a doll.” She’d come back to Levi before the end of the week. Apparently an eight-weekold puppy put a serious dent in her party lifestyle.

Levi had a habit of bailing his sister out but this was too much. Jessie had been persuasive. She’d argued Levi’s split shifts at the restaurant meant Whirlwind wouldn’t be on his own for very long. Levi could even go home on his breaks. He’d wanted to refuse. He didn’t like the idea of someone depending on him, making demands, but if he didn’t take Whirlwind, Jessie was going to take him to the pound. Levi couldn’t let her do it. Raising a dog was doable but he’d have to make some big changes. Levi had stopped all the clubbing and partying. He couldn’t go out two or three nights a week with a puppy to look after. Whirlwind was crated when Levi wasn’t at home, but young dogs needed frequent bathroom breaks and companionship. He’d traded drinking and dancing for long walks in the sunshine and watching his dog chase squirrels. Surprisingly, he didn’t miss the drinking or the late nights and he missed the sex with strangers even less. Taking care of a dog was its own reward. Whirlwind needed him, depended on him and Levi wouldn’t let him down. With a start Levi realized he wasn’t the same person he had been before he agreed to take Whirlwind. He’d grown up. He could call Shea, suggest something low-key like they meet for coffee or take Whirlwind for a walk. It didn’t have to be a date. Levi let the idea take root. They could start slow and go from there. Even if it didn’t work out with Shea, maybe it was time to start trying. He didn’t want to be alone for the rest of his life. Levi grinned as he picked up the phone. Now that he’d made the decision he couldn’t wait to see Shea again.

****

Shea used his shoulder to shut the front door. He dropped his keys and tugged off his tie with a sigh of relief. Today had been a shitty day. He’d overslept and had to rush around to avoid being late for work. As if that wasn’t enough, it had been a scorcher and the office’s air conditioner wasn’t working properly. Shea was glad to shed his work clothes as he headed for the shower. It’d be nice to spend the rest of the night in air-conditioned comfort. After his shower he flopped onto the couch in his boxers with ice-cold beer and a sandwich. His cell phone was lying on the end table, exactly where he’d left it last night. In the rush to leave this morning he’d forgotten to take it with him. Shea grabbed his phone. Great. As usual it was completely dead. It just didn’t hold its charge anymore. He really needed to get that looked at. With a sigh he tossed the phone back onto the table. He’d try charging it before he went to bed. There was no rush. If Levi hadn’t called by now, he wasn’t going to. He sipped his beer as he tried to figure out what had gone wrong. Everything had been great until William called. He could understand Levi’s reaction when he thought Shea was cheating on his boyfriend, but it hadn’t seemed to matter when he’d explained they weren’t together. It had been over with William for months; at least for Shea. William couldn’t seem to understand that. He called Shea at work, on his cell, even his landline, with invitations to dinner or the theatre. He’d called twice since the weekend, but maybe that would stop now. Shea had checked his messages eagerly. He’d been disappointed and frustrated to hear Williams’s voice instead of Levi’s. He’d phoned William back just so he’d stop phoning. When he’d politely declined the theatre ticket William had accepted his refusal with his usual good grace. “Maybe next time,” he’d said easily. “I’m sorry, William. I’ve met someone.” He’d winced at how blunt that

sounded. “Oh. I didn’t realize you were in a relationship. Is it serious?” “I’m not…” Shea paused. It wasn’t a bad idea to let William think he was no longer available. “Yeah. It’s pretty serious.” “What’s his name?” William had asked and Shea had answered, “Levi.” William had wished him happiness, sounding wistful. Shea drank his beer as he remembered the conversation. When he’d told William it was serious he thought he’d been exaggerating for William’s benefit, but he realized it was true. He was serious about Levi. When Levi looked at him with those dark blue eyes, Shea’s heart and body came alive. He’d thrilled under Levi’s touch, his hands, his mouth. But it was more than just sexual attraction. Shea had felt a real connection with Levi. It was a strange coincidence that the day he’d lost someone he loved, Levi had come into his life. He knew Levi had felt something too. He had seen it in his face. So he shouldn’t give up. Phone calls didn’t seem to work but if he saw Levi again maybe he could convince the other man to give them a chance. But he didn’t know how to find him. Shea had run or walked in the park almost every day since he’d met Levi there, but he hadn’t seen him again. He knew even if they were in the park at the same time, it was big enough that they might not meet. Maybe he should check some of the other nearby places that dog owners walked. Whirlwind was young. He’d need a lot of exercise. Shea drained his beer. If he didn’t find Levi soon he’d go down to the animal hospital and see if he could talk them into giving him Levi’s address or at least his last name. He could say Levi had left something at his house or maybe he’d found Whirlwind’s dog collar. It was a long shot but worth trying. Shea turned

on the TV, wishing Levi was with him right now. After a couple of hours he got up and went to bed. His uncharged phone still lay on the end table as Shea slept and dreamt of Levi. **** Levi spent the day in pleasurable anticipation. He checked his cell phone repeatedly but Shea didn’t call back. Maybe Shea hadn’t checked his messages. Or maybe Levi had waited too long. He told himself he hadn’t really wanted to date Shea anyway. The sex had been great. Amazing. Maybe even the best he’d ever had, but that was all. It was just physical. But if that was true why was he so disappointed? On his next break he almost didn’t check his phone. His heart did a funny fluttery thing when he saw he had a message. Levi’s breath sped up as he held the phone to his ear. He gripped the phone tightly as he listened to Shea apologizing for not getting back to him sooner. “I had some trouble with my phone. Coffee sounds good.” Shea had named a time and place. “Call me if that doesn’t work for you, otherwise I’ll see you tomorrow. Or call me if you just want to talk. That’d be good too.” Shea’s voice had softened. “I’m really glad you called, Levi. I want to see you again.” Levi played the message again, just to hear Shea’s voice. Who was he kidding? He had it bad. Just the sound of Shea’s voice made his heart race and his stomach flip. CHAPTER FIVE Shea got to the coffee shop early. He ordered an iced tea and sat at one of the outside tables on a grassy strip beside the sidewalk. He’d chosen this coffee shop because it was dog friendly just in case Levi decided to bring Whirlwind.

It was early evening and though it was still warm out, it was comfortable sitting outside. It had been a pleasant shock when he played Levi’s message. He hoped like hell Levi wouldn’t chicken out and be a no-show. Levi was pretty experienced when it came to sex. He’d had some smooth moves when they’d been together on the couch, but he’d sounded nervous when he’d left his message. Shea suspected Levi wasn’t all that experienced in the dating department. He had a feeling he’d spook Levi if he moved on him too quickly. Still, he wasn’t letting him get away without more contact details. He saw Levi from half a block away. Shea watched him check his wristwatch and rake his fingers through his hair. He was wearing pressed chinos and a dress shirt. Levi had obviously made an effort with his appearance. Shea took that as a good sign. Levi saw him and made his way to the table. He smiled almost shyly. “Hi.” “Hi.” Shea smiled back. Levi looked awkward. “I’ll just go get something to drink. Can I get you anything else?” “I’m good thanks. Is outside okay?” “Yeah. It’s nice to get some fresh air. Be right back.” Shea watched Levi as he entered the coffee shop. He came back a few minutes later with an iced coffee and sat down across from Shea. Levi took a sip of his drink and sighed. “God, that’s good.” “Where’s Whirlwind?” “I left him at home. I wasn’t sure I should bring him.” “You should. Bring him next time.”

“Okay.” Levi looked as if he was nervous and Shea wondered if he should have mentioned a next time. Levi turned his drink around, playing with the condensation ring on the table. “It’s a little weird doing this.” “Doing what?” Levi flushed. “Sitting here, getting to know each other.” Shea grinned. “Feeling awkward is a requirement for every first date.” Levi flushed harder. “It is my first date.” He grabbed his iced coffee and drank. Shea studied him. “Ever?” Levi nodded and stared at the table. “I can’t believe I just told you that.” Shea reached across the table and squeezed his hand. “I’m glad you did.” He paused until Levi looked up. “Getting to know each other doesn’t have to be an ordeal. We can make it fun. Next time we could maybe see a movie or walk in the park with Whirlwind. If you like baseball we could go to a game. Okay?” Levi looked relieved. He met Shea’s eyes and nodded. “Yeah.” “Great.” Shea released his hand and sat back. Levi watched him as he drank his iced tea. “Can I ask you something?” “Sure. Ask away.” He wanted to get Levi talking, get him relaxed. “How did you get my number?” Damn. He’d kind of hoped it wouldn’t come up. Shea took a breath and

launched into his explanation. Levi’s lips pressed together but he didn’t say anything. Shea wasn’t sure if he was mad or trying not to laugh. “So it just made sense to write it down then and there,” Shea finished. “That’s pretty slick.” Shea stared at him unsure how to interpret that comment. The corner of Levi’s mouth curled up and a dimple appeared in his cheek. Levi’s small smile blossomed into a full on grin and Shea felt some of the tension in his shoulders ease. It was easier after that. They talked for hours. Somewhere in the middle Shea got up and bought them each another drink. They traded all the basic information such as age, siblings, and jobs. But they mostly talked about dogs. Levi told Shea how he’d ended up with Whirlwind. He shared some of the horror stories of raising a puppy that ate anything, including socks and even a bar of soap. Shea told Levi he’d always wanted a dog but his parents had never allowed it. That once he was settled, he’d decided on an older dog that could be left at home while he was at work, without fear of his house being destroyed. He even talked to Levi about Lacey’s arthritis and his decision to let her go. Levi watched him as he spoke, his indigo eyes sympathetic. “That must have been tough.” “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.”

Levi reached across the table and squeezed his shoulder. It was getting late but Shea didn’t want Levi to leave. He wanted to spend more time with him and he envied Levi. He had someone to greet him when he got home. Suddenly Shea couldn’t bare the thought of walking into his empty house. “Do you want another drink?” Levi glanced at his watch. “Thanks, but I should get going. Whirlwind will need to go out soon.” “I could come with you.” Levi gave Shea a surprised look. “You want to come with me? I didn’t think—” “Levi,” Shea interrupted. “It’s not just sex. There’s something special between us.” He bit his lip as Levi sat silent. “I won’t try to force you into something you don’t want, or you might not be ready for, but let me come home with you tonight.” Levi stood and Shea worried he’d pushed too far too fast. Some of his fears must have shown in his face because Levi moved to his side and smiled at him. “Okay, but you’d better not complain if your socks get chewed.” Shea got to his feet and Levi took his hand. “Come on. Let’s go take Whirlwind for a walk.”

THE END Author bio: Pender Mackie lives in Canada though she spent her childhood years in England. She has been a technical writer for over twenty years and spends her daily commute making up characters, romantic plots and daydreaming.

Pender has been writing M/M romance stories for a couple of years but submitted the first of them to Silver Publishing earlier this year. Her first story, Scent of Attraction, was released in April. She’s busy putting the final touches on several others.