by Megan Slayer
Table of Contents
Books by Megan Slayer
Title Page
Legal Page
Book Description
Dedication
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
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About the Author
Pride Publishing books by Megan Slayer
Single Books
Constant
Permanent
Vaulting
Drive my Car
We Belong Together
Finding Michael
Must Love Dogs
The One I Want
You and Me Again
The Real Me
My Other Half
Cedarwood Pride
Home to Cedarwood
Ripples in Cedarwood
Scoring in Cedarwood
Rainbows over Cedarwood
Rocking Cedarwood
Cedarwood Manny
Together in Cedarwood
Doc Cedarwood
Finding Forever in Cedarwood
Anthologies
Out of Bounds: Crossing the Line
Out of Bounds: Making the Play
Aim High: Lifetime Hitch
Brothers in Arms: One Night with You
Rules of Summer: Summer Stock
Collections
What’s his Passion?: Wild Card
Cedarwood Pride
SILVER FOX IN CEDARWOOD
MEGAN SLAYER
Silver Fox in Cedarwood
ISBN # 978-1-83943-067-1
©Copyright Megan Slayer 2020
Cover Art by Erin Dameron-Hill ©Copyright August 2020
Interior text design by Claire Siemaszkiewicz
Pride Publishing
This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Pride Publishing.
Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Pride Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution.
The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork.
Published in 2020 by Pride Publishing, United Kingdom.
No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the authors’ rights. Purchase only authorised copies.
Pride Publishing is an imprint of Totally Entwined Group Limited.
If you purchased this book without a cover you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as “unsold and destroyed” to the publisher and neither the author nor the publisher has received any payment for this “stripped book”.
Book ten in the
Cedarwood Pride series
Can two lonely hearts find their way to each other despite the odds?
Dr. Isaac McLean knows he’s not supposed to lust after a patient, but there’s something about Len Connor that he can’t forget. His laugh? His strong will? His sexy body. But will Len want to be with his former doctor?
Len Connor wasn’t looking to get back into the dating scene, but he’s never been able to get Isaac off his mind. Isaac is sweet, funny and oh, so handsome. But he’s also at least twenty years younger. Will this cougar get his cub and have a happy ending? Or will the relationship fall apart before it gets started?
Dedication
For everyone still looking, keep going. Happiness is out there.
To RB
To JPZ
Chapter One
Len Connor moved the last box of clothes into his new condo and sighed. He hadn’t planned on moving to Cedarwood, but after his stroke and Ross leaving, he wanted a fresh start near his son, Aiden. Since Aiden lived in the quaint little town, so would he. It seemed rather silly to live so far from his only remaining family member and, since he liked Cedarwood, the move seemed simple.
“Dad, you’re sure you want to live here?” Aiden asked. “It’s not like you to want to live alone.”
“I’ve got Cissy,” Len said. He’d never be alone as long as he had his dog.
“That’s not the same. You’ve always been with someone,” Aiden said. “Keye, Ross, there was Norman… It’s not bad, but it’s different to live alone. Plus, you loved Springdale.”
“I did.” He shrugged to hide his momentary wince. He’d loved the town of Springdale, but everywhere he went, he was reminded of things he’d done and places he’d gone with Ross. Sure, Ross hadn’t been the one, but the relationship had failed, and Len hated to fail. “Keye loved Cedarwood, so it’s okay. I needed a new start and you’re here. I don’t want to miss things with you and Matt. Now that you’ve got three dogs, I want to see my grandpups and Cissy wants to play with her…cousins? I don’t know the hierarchy in family dogs.” His Irish setter loved playtime with other dogs and he couldn’t wait for them all to have another play date.
“Dad.” Aiden frowned. The crease between his eyes, the one that deepened when he thought too hard, seemed etched into his face.
Len smoothed the line on his son’s forehead. “You’re right. I hate being single. I’m better when I’m with someone, but there isn’t anyone and I’m not settling. I did before and it got messy. The right one is out there looking for a silver fox—me.” He’d had the one back when he’d been married to Keye. Losing his partner sucked and he’d never find another man like Keye.
Aiden stared at him for a moment before shaking his head. “I know you’ve had boyfriends, but I didn’t need to know the silver fox thing.”
“Suit yourself.” Truth be told, he enjoyed embarrassing his son. Age didn’t matter. His son could be a hundred and he’d still give him hell.
“Your bed has been assembled,” Matt said. He wiped his brow. “All you have to do is add the linens. When is the rest of the furniture set to arrive?”
“Tomorrow. I scheduled the appointment with the movers for then so I could have all day to arrange my things.” He clapped Matt on the shoulder. “Thank you for putting that together. I’d have it all messed up. Give me a legal brief and I’m good. Parts for a bed? Yeah, it’d be a disaster.”
“It’s all good.” Matt chuckled. “I don’t know my ass from a legal brief, so we’re equal.”
“Do you have everything to get through tonight or do you need us to put anything else together?” Aiden asked.
“No, I’ll be fine.” Len folded his arms. “Do you have to work tonight?”
“I do.” Aiden rolled his shoulders. “I agreed to take a night shift to help out Dr. Carson. It’s just one night, but I’m not looking forward to it.”
“Neither am I,” Matt said, then kissed Aiden. “But we’ll get through it.” He turned to Len. “What are your plans for tonight?”
He loved that his son was happy. Matt was the best partner for Aiden. Where Aiden could be wound tight, Matt was loose.
Len wanted that kind of love again. “There’s a mixer here at the complex. Everyone brings food, but since I don’t have anything to bring, I thought I’d just stop in for a moment.” He followed Aiden and Matt to the front door. “I don’t want to leave Cissy alone for too long, but I’d like to meet some of my neighbors.”
“And if someone happens to be there who’s handsome and single…” Aiden arched his eyebrow. “Or he’s hot, rich and single… Or those moving men will be hot.”
“I’m not interested.” He wanted a relationship, but wasn’t looking for a lover.
“Right,” Aiden said.
“Going to a mixer does sound like you’re starting to move on,” Matt pointed out.
“I want to be on my own a while. It’s been forever since I was independent,” Len said. “I’m enjoying it. I take Cissy for walks, only practice law when I want to, I’ve got the condo layout I want and I don’t have to tell anyone where I’m going. It’s nice.” He’d spent so much time catering to Ross, his ex-boyfriend. Now he could focus on his needs.
“You’re not lonely?” Matt asked.
“No.” He shook his head. “If I’m going to find someone, he’ll find me. I’m tired of looking and only finding dead ends.”
“Ross was terrible,” Aiden said. “I’m glad he’s gone.”
“Me, too.” He’d thought Ross might be his forever man, but once Len had had his stroke, he’d found out just what kind of a money-grubber Ross could be.
“Well, you’re better off.” Aiden tugged his keys from his pocket. “Just think before you dive into anything, and if you meet someone, make sure they’re out. No closet guys.”
“Make sure he’s clean,” Matt said.
“I know.” He’d listen because his son and son-in-law cared, but he knew the rules. “I’ve been around the block a few times.”
“Make sure he’s got his own form of income,” Aiden said. “That he’s okay with pets, that he’s not trying to move in on day two…”
“Son, I know.” He loved Aiden’s protective streak.
“I know you do.” Aiden’s brow furrowed. “I can’t help it. I’m a worrier.”
“And I appreciate it.” He hugged his son. “I’ll ask the appropriate questions when I meet someone. Not earlier.” Who’s the parent and who’s the child now? He hugged Matt. “Be good. Both of you. Come over whenever you want. Cissy and I are always open.”
“Thanks, Dad.” Aiden waved. “Call if you need help.”
Matt waved and followed Aiden out to the sports car.
Len stood on the porch and watched them leave. He’d had a decent relationship with Aiden, but when he’d dated Ross, he’d pushed his son away. Things were back on track and he had no desire to screw up again. He petted Cissy. “Well, Ciss, it’s just us. Think this is a good place? I do.”
Part of him enjoyed his freedom, but part of him preferred to be in a relationship. Having someone around was safe, comfortable and reliable.
Kind of like a dog.
Except a dog wasn’t there to warm the bed or kiss him good night.
“I’m going to the mixer,” he said. He wasn’t sure why he’d declared it, other than to force himself to follow through with his decision. Cissy didn’t care and wouldn’t answer him. As long as he returned, she’d be happy.
Len massaged his forehead and closed his eyes. Maybe he’d stay home. He could meet the neighbors any time. When he opened his eyes, a man was strolling up the front lawn.
“Hi,” the man said. “So you bought six-seventy-two. My name’s Brandon Newsome. I’m in six-seventy-six. It’s a good neighborhood. We’re all cozy.” He stuck out his hand. “How are you? Are you going to the mixer?”
Jesus. The guy talked a lot. Would he be able to get a word in edgewise? “I’m Len and yes, I bought this place.” Cissy growled and he scratched her head. He wasn’t sure if she thought Brandon was too chatty or a threat. Either way, if she wasn’t happy with him, then Len wasn’t either. “This is my rescue, Cissy. She’s very protective.”
“I can tell.” Brandon didn’t lean in to offer his hand or act like she existed. “So, the mixer, you should attend. People go there to meet, talk…some date. It’s a good time.”
Len’s pride flag waved on the porch. He nodded to the rainbow. “You do realize I’m gay? Is that going to be a problem?”
“No. I’m gay, too. Cleve, Devon, Sam and Norton are, too,” Brandon said. “The mixer is to get to know our neighbors. It’s a good time and while some date, most just have long chats.”
“I might attend.” He’d said he would, but wasn’t convinced. “Thanks for mentioning it.”
“I hope to see you there.” Brandon paused. “So you know, David will get with anyone who asks, Patrick has a thing for silver foxes, so be advised, and Devon only dates younger men.”
“I see.” He’d never remember who did what, but that didn’t matter. He wasn’t looking for a partner.
“Come and have a fun time,” Brandon said. “I’ll be there. See you.” He waved and walked down the lawn to the sidewalk.
Len pinched the bridge of his nose. Cissy trotted into the house first. He followed her, then closed the screen door. Part of him wanted to attend the mixer. He’d like to meet the others in the condominium development. But part of him wasn’t sure. He’d forgotten how tricky the dating game could be and didn’t want anyone to think he was on the prowl. Maybe no one would ask and he’d be able to fly under the radar.
Maybe.
At eight-thirty, he headed to the community room in the administration building. People were already milling about. Many stood together chatting. Len wished he’d brought Cissy. Since he’d left the courtroom full time, he’d realized he wasn’t much of a people person. Cissy relaxed people and encouraged conversation. He’d rather stay quiet and observe.
Brandon rushed over to him. “Oh, my God. I’m glad you arrived. I hoped you’d be here. The party is so dull. Come over here and I’ll introduce you to everyone.”
“I’m fine. I’m only staying for a moment.” He hadn’t brought a dish to share.
“Don’t worry about it. You need to meet people and we need your fresh face.” Brandon linked arms with him. “Let me introduce you to the guys. You know we really should get together some time. I’ve got a great wine selection.”
“Whoa.” He stopped in his tracks. “Are you asking me out?” Sure sounded like it.
“Yes.” Brandon held tight to Len’s arm. “You’re hot, young and we’re sexy together. It’ll be good.”
“How old are you? I’m probably old enough to be your father,” Len said.
“I’m fifty-two. You’re what, fifty-three?”
“I’m fifty-nine. Aiden’s thirty-nine. See?” He wasn’t ashamed of his age, but he wasn’t looking to date a man younger than his son. The age difference wasn’t too bad between him and Brandon, but he wasn’t interested in him. Brandon was too forward for his taste.
“Who says we have to be exclusive?” Brandon asked.
“Maybe once I’m all moved in, we could have coffee together.” He’d put getting together off as long as possible. Maybe Brandon would forget.
“Sure, sure.” Brandon ushered him over to a knot of men. “So, guys, this is Len. He lives two doors down from me. He’s middle-aged, fit and looking for a good time. Len, this is Terrence, David, Patrick and Clyde. Oh.” He paused. “And Elise.”
“Elise?” He spotted the lone woman in the group. “Hi.” He nodded. “Nice to meet you, but I’m not looking for a good time. I’m still getting my legs under me here in the development. Brandon assumed he knows what I’m thinking.”
One of the men ushered Brandon aside. Len stayed out of the way. He refused to get involved in a spat.
Elise bumped shoulders with him. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s okay.” He smiled. “As you can guess, I’m new.”
“I figured it out by the way Brandon held on to you.” She laughed. Her blue eyes sparkled
and she had pale streaks of lavender in her hair. She sighed. “What brings you to Cedarwood?”
“My son. He’s a doctor.” Oh God. He sounded like an old person. “I wanted to be close to him and his husband.” Yep, he sounded old.
“Nice.” She tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear. “Is he at the hospital?”
“He works in the emergency room. Dr. Connor. Aiden.” He had to learn to talk to people again.
“I don’t know him, but I try not to visit the ER.” She bobbed her head. “I try not to get hurt, either.”
“Smart.” He hated small talk. “Since Aiden and his husband, Matt, live here, I thought I’d come back. Cissy doesn’t care where we live as long as there’s a big couch and space on the bed.”
“Is Cissy your wife?” She crinkled her forehead. “I hope she’s actually a dog. Making someone live on the couch sounds odd.”
“My dog. I met her when I volunteered at the shelter in Springdale. She was there for a long time and I couldn’t pass her up.” He loved talking about Cissy. “She’s older, but you’d never know it looking at her.”
“The older ones, the ones with nuances, are the best. I met my cat, Grover, that way. He’s missing an eye. Almond, my dog, came from a breeder,” she said. “I adopt, but she was going to be put down because she was too old to breed. Made me mad, so I adopted her on the spot. Been the best decision ever.”
“Good for you.” And the dog.
“She’s twelve and going on six. I’ll bet she’d love Cissy,” Elise said. “Almond and I volunteer at the shelter here in Cedarwood. Stone, he runs the shelter, doesn’t turn any animal away and doesn’t put any one down. I’ll give you his number if you’d like to volunteer. We can always use more people.”
“I’d love to help out.” He nodded. Cissy would love having new dog friends to visit.
“Really?” she asked. “We get a lot of people who claim to love volunteering, but once they do it a while, they realize they don’t really love it.”
