By the Numbers Series by Chris Owen, Tory Temple

The last thing Nathaniel, aka Deuce, expects to see when he gets home from work is his street jammed with fire engines and police cars. When he realizes that it’s his apartment building that’s on fire, Nathaniel can only think of one thing: his pregnant dog, trapped inside. When firefighter Trey Donovan delivers Nathaniel’s unharmed dog to him, Nathaniel is exceedingly grateful. After all, it isn’t every day that he meets muscular, attractive rescue workers... moreThe last thing Nathaniel, aka Deuce, expects to see when he gets home from work is his street jammed with fire engines and police cars. When he realizes that it’s his apartment building that’s on fire, Nathaniel can only think of one thing: his pregnant dog, trapped inside. When firefighter Trey Donovan delivers Nathaniel’s unharmed dog to him, Nathaniel is exceedingly grateful. After all, it isn’t every day that he meets muscular, attractive rescue workers. Nathaniel manages to find out where Trey’s station is with the idea of saying thank you and offering him a puppy, but discovers that he and Trey have something else between them that needs exploring. Trey, however, has responsibilities that could prove to make that exploration difficult. He has shift work to contend with. His seven year old daughter is a priority, plus he shares custody with his less than friendly ex-wife. Since Nathaniel is the new owner of one dog and six puppies, and doesn’t even have a place to live, he isn’t exactly in an ideal situation to explore a new relationship. Even if it is with a hot, handsome fireman. Can Trey and Nathaniel find some common ground amid the yapping of puppies and Trey’s complicated family life? less

Trey and Deuce have settled into their lives as a couple. Dogs, Trey's daughter, Lacey, and shift work make for an unpredictable and never boring life together. Trey has managed to keep his ex-wife at arms length, but Deuce is determined to make peace amongst them all for Lacey's sake. When he attempts to establish a friendship with Holly, Trey vehemently protests. Holly is not somebody Trey wants more interaction with. Deuce persists, however, and tensions escalate between them... moreTrey and Deuce have settled into their lives as a couple. Dogs, Trey's daughter, Lacey, and shift work make for an unpredictable and never boring life together. Trey has managed to keep his ex-wife at arms length, but Deuce is determined to make peace amongst them all for Lacey's sake. When he attempts to establish a friendship with Holly, Trey vehemently protests. Holly is not somebody Trey wants more interaction with. Deuce persists, however, and tensions escalate between them. Trey doesn't see how the rift can be mended. Can they make it all add up again? less