Rising from the Ashes by Darlene Tallman

Jory
Ten years ago, my life irrevocably changed when my then-boyfriend decided to shoot anyone he could during the Homecoming Dance. The ensuing fire killed ten students, as well as four teachers; however, somehow my life was spared. It took a lot of surgeries, therapy, and time for me to heal, but now I’m ready to reclaim my life.
The only problem is, despite my attempts, a hazy memory of the firefighter who called me kitten keeps me from fully seizing the day. Not only that, but I know there’s no way someone like him would want to be involved with a freak like me.

Bryson
Being a firefighter for the Possum Run Fire Department these past ten years has had its share of heartbreak as well as rewards. My first wife couldn’t handle the life, so I once again find myself a single man.
While I’ve gone on more calls than I can remember, my first one is still never far from my thoughts and I wonder how the teenage girl I rescued is doing. Did she even survive or did she succumb to her injuries? A chance encounter at the diner gives me my answer and I realize that she’s all grown up now.
The question is, will we be able to build a relationship from the ashes of our former lives?

**Suitable for ages 18+ due to adult content, situations, and language**