Running Hot

A thrill of excitement always went through paramedic James Willson whenever he transported a patient to St. Michael’s hospital, but it had nothing to do with the rush of the job. It was one of the emergency department doctors that set his heart racing—the very sexy, very aloof Calvin Dane. For months now, James has admired Calvin from afar, but has never dared act on his feelings since the doctor didn’t seem to return his interest. Then one intimate encounter in the back of his ambulance forever changes things between the two men. But does the doctor truly care for James or is he just looking for a brief hookup? And can James’s heart survive the hurt if Calvin forever turns his back on what could have been?

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author's rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Running Hot Copyright © 2010 Stephani Hecht ISBN: 978-1-55487-464-4 Cover art by Angela Waters All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.extasybooks.com

Running Hot

By

Stephani Hecht

Dedication To Greg and Dawn.

Chapter One

I

t’s not every day you got to chase a half-naked, wannabe Indian Warrior down the streets of Flint, even if you are in the emergency medical field. Yet that’s what James found himself doing. And not for the first time either. Indian Jack, resident Flint bum, had been around so long he was almost an icon with the city. Everyone had sort of adopted the man and doted on him. James, on the other hand seriously contemplated strapping the jackass to a backboard so he couldn’t rabbit again. He just needed to catch the wily guy first. “Come on, Jack. I have some chocolate chip cookies in my rig,” James called, hoping good oldfashioned bribery would work. It had the past three times they’d done the whole runaway-andchase thing. “No time for treats.” Jack gave a whoop. “I’m an Indian Warrior and I must save the day.” “You know that’s not the PC thing to say anymore. It’s Native American,” James 1

Stephani Hecht admonished between gasps. It wasn’t easy running in the steel-toed boots he wore while working. Ol’ Jack didn’t have the same problem because he was running in normal moccasins. The thing was, James might have bought into the whole Indian—or rather Native American act—had it not been for the fact that Jack had bright red hair and green eyes. Of course, to Jack’s credit, he had lost his brain cells to drugs and alcohol. That still didn’t mean James was happy to have to be corralling the homeless guy, yet again. They rounded the block and came back to where the whole chase had started. Jack didn’t like to cross the street so his runs to freedom always ended in big circles. James grunted in disgust when he saw his partner, Matt, leaning against the rig, his arms crossed over his chest as he took in the show. “I could use a little help here,” James snapped. A burn was developing in his calves and thighs as his boots seemed to grow heavier with each step. “Why would I want to do that?” Matt shot off his usual shit-eating grin. “Because he’s going to get away.” Indian Jack paused a moment to lower his pants down a couple of inches to flash a half moon. “I’m an Indian Warrior.” “Come on, buddy. You’re killing me here,” James begged. Right now, he would do anything 2

Running Hot to get the guy to hop willingly into the back of his rig. He growled in anger when the man’s response was to slap his own ass cheeks as he cackled in laughter. Matt let out a sharp whistle. “Hey, Indian Warrior, I got a present for you.” Reaching into the back of the rig, he pulled out a can of root beer and cracked it open. The sound made the homeless man stop dead in his tracks as he slowly turned around to look. “Is that…” Jack trailed off as he licked his chapped lips. “Yes, it’s root beer. You know I only bring the best for you.” Matt shook the can slightly in a whole come-and-get-it way. When the man started to stagger to the rig, James threw his hands up in the air in frustration. “Un-fucking-believable! Why didn’t you do that sooner?” “Because you two looked like you were having so much fun.” Matt flashed his 100-watt smile that had females from all over Genesee County panting for him. Add his blond hair and bright blue eyes and he never had a shortage of bed partners. Unfortunately, he also didn’t have a shortage of sexapades that he loved to talk endlessly about. “You suck. You know that right?” James grumbled. 3

Stephani Hecht Jack hopped into the back of the rig and laid down on the cot, the can of root beer clutched to his chest like it was a priceless treasure. Since he knew if he bitched any more, Matt would take some sort of sadistic pleasure in it, James just grunted in irritation before he climbed into the back and took a seat in the bench opposite the cot. Now that he was trapped in the close confines of his rig, it became painfully obvious that Indian Warriors weren’t big on showers. The rank, acid smell became ten times worse when Matt closed the back doors, shutting off all source of fresh air. “That was fun,” Jack beamed before he took a swig from the can. James frowned when he noticed the yellowish tinge to the man’s eyes. “When’s the last time you went to the clinic?” James asked as he got out the blood pressure cuff and put his stethoscope earpieces in. “Bah, I don’t like them.” Jack scowled and tightened his grip on his drink, almost as if he were afraid someone would come and snatch it from him. “How about the shelter?” James knew his suggestion would fall on deaf ears, but felt compelled to try anyway. While Jack may be a pain in the ass, there was also a softer side to him that brought out James’s protective impulses. 4

Running Hot Slapping the cuff in place, he took the man’s blood pressure only to find that it was low—too damn low. James’s concern turned to full-blown worry as he reached up and got an IV out of one of the cabinets. “They’re not nice there.” Jack let out a snort. “Not like you and Matt.” “If you like us so much, then why do you always run from me?” James spiked the IV and got the rest of the supplies out. He tried to keep the needle hidden as much as possible, knowing how much they terrified Jack. “It’s so much fun to watch you get mad when you have to chase me. Admit it, your days would be so boring without me around.” “Here I thought it was so you scam cookies out of me.” James rolled up the man’s sleeve and tried to find a vein. He winced when he saw open sores running up Jack’s arms. Red and inflamed, they were showing signs of serious infection, too. It was hard, but James was finally able to find a viable blood vessel that looked like it may support an IV. As he started to swab the area with an alcohol wipe, Jack jerked away, a look of horror passing through his watery eyes. “What do you think you’re doing?” his outrage echoed through the closed confines of the ambulance. “Oh, come on. I thought you were some big 5

Stephani Hecht Indian Warrior. You shouldn’t be afraid of something as little as a needle.” Somehow James managed to keep a straight face while speaking those ridiculous words. Jack’s face grew somber and for a brief second, the crazy was gone long enough for James to see the bleak despair on the man’s face. “We both know I’m not an Indian Warrior. I’m just some bum who’s no good to anybody.” “Hey, that’s not true.” James gave him a light punch on the shoulder. “Without you, my job would be no fun at all.” **** When Calvin Dane had been laboring all those years in medical school, he never dreamed being a doctor would be so fulfilling. He also never imagined it would be this hard. At the end of yet another twelve-hour shift, his body ached like he was fifty instead of thirty-two and his eyes felt so grainy, the mere act of blinking hurt. To add to it, his stomach was starting to revolt against all the hospital cafeteria food he eaten and he’d drank the last of his Pepto around four hours ago. He was sitting in the break room, trying to make the best out of his crappy cup of coffee, when one of the nurses, a petite blonde named Janet, came sailing in. As usual, she was all smiles, 6

Running Hot her teeth almost as bright as the cartoon characters on her pink scrub top. Calvin tired hard not to glower at her, but it was difficult. Damn her for being so chipper all the time. “We have one coming in,” she announced as she grabbed the coffee pot and poured herself a cup. “I wouldn’t drink that if I were you. It’s deadly.” He took another drink of his swill and shuddered as the lukewarm liquid hit his tongue. He would have tossed it in the garbage where it belonged, but needed the caffeine too bad. Janet paused, her pink lips pursed in worry as she studied him. “Can I say something to you? One friend to another?” “Please.” He made the bring-it-on gesture. “When have you ever asked my permission to insult me?” “You look like crap, honey. When’s the last time you got any sleep?” “I don’t know.” He blinked stupidly. “What day is it?” She chuckled. “At least tell me you get off soon.” “Another hour and I’m out of here.” Janet took a sip of her coffee and immediately started to cough. “This tastes horrible,” she sputtered between hacks. “I warned you.” Calvin didn’t even attempt to 7

Stephani Hecht hide his grin. “Whatever, we need to get going anyway. I want to get the incoming patient settled so neither of us has to stay late.” He yawned before he nodded and got up. Just one more hour and I can get home and into bed. To be tucked in with crisp sheets and my favorite pillow would be heaven right now. That and a shower. I probably smell like the hind end of a buffalo. They left the relative quiet of the hallway leading to the break room and entered the busy emergency department. The sounds of beeping equipment mixed in with the low buzz of conversations and the louder yells from the irate drunk in room eight. “What do we have coming in?” he asked as he reached the nurses’ station. “It’s Indian Jack.” Gladys glowered, her face as sour as always. An aging nurse who should have retired years ago, she had permanent wrinkles on her face from always scowling and a boulder-size chip on her shoulder. Even her hair seemed hostile. Dyed a dull red, she always kept it swept up in a chunky bun, the strands always in perfect order as if even they were afraid to cross her by straying. Calvin nodded in understanding. With Indian Jack, she didn’t have to say more. A frequent flyer at their hospital, it seemed they were dealing with 8

Running Hot him on a bi-weekly basis. Unlike Gladys though, he didn’t begrudge the homeless man. Sure, Jack may be stinky, a drunk and have a foul mouth, but at least he was entertaining with all his stories. “How far out are they?” he asked no one in particular. Of course, Gladys felt it her duty to chime in on that one, too. “They should be rolling in any minute.” She nearly snarled as she grabbed an empty chart and began to get the paperwork started. “Who’s bringing him in?” “Alpha 304.” Happy Pants made the sneer again, but Calvin knew it wasn’t in regard to Jack this time. Gladys had clashed with the crew from that ambulance on more than one occasion. She’d never made it a secret that she couldn’t stand the sight of them. Calvin on the other hand was hard pressed to hide his excitement, for as much as Gladys hated the medics from 304, he liked them. Or rather one of them. Even as he thought about James, a thrill went through him, making his heart race. For months now, he’d been admiring the paramedic from afar. Too afraid to even talk socially with the guy, let alone make a move. Crap, he didn’t even know if James was gay or not. Sure, he’d heard gossip the medic preferred guys, but he knew one couldn’t put too much stock in rumors. 9

Stephani Hecht The ambulance bay doors swished open. James and his partner came in, pushing the cot between them. Calvin froze for a second, his breath caught in his throat, struck by how handsome the medic was. From dark hair that was cut regulationlength to his sharp blue eyes, he was already sexy. But then another glance showed how lickable his muscular body looked. His navy uniform molded to his frame and he went from handsome to ballcrunching desirable. James laughed at something, his full sensual lips curling up into an almost mischievous grin. Once the man spotted Gladys though, all good humor fled his face. “Where should we put Mr. Hunt?” James shocked him by using the patient’s last name. His already high opinion of the medic went up a couple of notches. Even though Jack was crazy, homeless and the ambulance company would never see a dime out of him, James still treated the man with the upmost respect. “Put him in five,” Gladys grunted. Her backhanded comment made Calvin so appalled he nearly dropped the chart in his hand. Five, or the eyewash room as they dubbed it, had to be the smallest examining room they had. It didn’t even have a real bed. Just a vinyl, brown examining chair that tilted back some. They used it mostly for nosebleeds or eye injuries, neither of 10

Running Hot which Jack had. “No, put him in seven,” Calvin countered with a straight face. He almost lost it and smiled when he saw the triumphant gleam in James’s eyes. “Dr. Dane,” Gladys drawled his name out just enough for it to sound condescending, even while using his official title. “We need to keep room seven open for real patients.” “Last time I checked, Jack seemed real enough to me.” He shot her a warning glare that would have had most other nurses rushing to obey. Not ol’ Gladys though. She put her hands on her ample hips and glared right back. “Dr. Dane.” Again, she somehow managed to make the simple act of saying his name seem like an insult. “Five will be perfectly fine for what this patient needs.” “No, it won’t and the patient has a name, Mr. Hunt. Surly you heard James use it just now.” “I am not putting him in seven.” “Yes, you are.” By now, nearly the entire staff had become caught up in the argument, their heads going back and forth like they were watching a tennis match. Finally, he lost his temper enough to toss down the pen and turn his full fury on the witch. “Gladys, like it or not, I’m in charge here and I think the best thing medically for Mr. Hunt is for him to go to room seven.” 11

Stephani Hecht “You tell her, Doc,” Jack hooted from the cot. Calvin noticed that the corners of James’s lips twitched like he was holding back laughter. Gladys gave him one more killing look before she spun on her heel and started to waddle her way to room seven. As she passed the cot, she reached over and snagged a cookie out of the patient’s hand. “No eating until you’re cleared,” she sang out in a falsely sweet voice. As soon as she disappeared into the examining room, James pulled another cookie from his jacket pocket and handed it to Jack. When James noticed him staring at them, the paramedic gave him a conspiratorial wink. The move was so unintentionally sexy that a fresh surge of desire went through him. He smiled in return. While he should have objected to the patient eating before he’d been examined, he found himself holding back laughter. The way the medic liked to flaunt rules and do stuff just to get on Gladys’s nerves made him all the more appealing. “Maybe you should flirt with her next time,” Matt advised in a low voice. “Hell, no. There isn’t enough booze in the world to loosen me up enough to make eyes at that.” No sooner had James said those words, then his dark gaze drifted back to Calvin. His breath caught in his throat. Was that a 12

Running Hot spark of interest he saw in the man’s eyes? No, it couldn’t be. He must be having delusions from lack of sleep. Before now, never once had the medic been anything but professional toward him. Then again, he’d never seen James flirt with anyone period. While the banter and jokes they always tossed around made James and Matt one of the most popular crews, James had never crossed the line to making an overt come-on to anyone. Matt, on the other hand, sometimes reminded Calvin of a dog in heat with his constant perusal of any female who crossed his path. “I guess we better get in there. No sense in giving Gladys something else to yell at us about. She thinks of enough reasons on her own as it is,” James spoke to Matt, but his gaze was still locked on him. Okay, there was no mistaking the sensual undertone to James’s expression anymore. Shit, he even licked his lips, like he was sizing up a four star meal. Calvin found himself unconsciously mimicking the motion before he caught himself and looked quickly back down at the chart. Not that it held anything that interested him, but it seemed as good a cover as any. From under his lashes, he saw the cart being rolled away and breathed a sigh of relief. Now that the Gladys Show was over, all of the other staff dispersed as well. All of them except for Janet who 13

Stephani Hecht moved around the desk so she could stand close to him. “What was that all about?” she said in a near whisper. “I’m done putting up with Gladys and her fits.” Calvin shrugged, wondering why Janet was making such a big deal out of it. He would have thought she’d be thanking him for standing up to the mean bully. “Not that.” Janet let out an irritated huff so strong that some her blonde bangs poofed up. “I’m talking about the eyes you and James were making at each other.” He said nothing and shot an irritated glance her way. Since he’d come to work at the hospital, they’d developed a strong bond. One night after one too many beers, he’d confessed not only was he gay, but that he had a thing for a certain paramedic. True to her sweet nature, Janet had taken it all in stride, although she’d made it her personal goal for Calvin to snag his man as she’d repeatedly put it. God, if she didn’t let up on the matchmaking soon he’d be tempted to slap a diaper on her and give her a quiver full of arrows with heart-shaped heads. “Let it rest, Janet.” He turned his back on her and started toward seven, all the while trying to ignore the thrill of excitement that went through him because James’s hot body still occupied that 14

Running Hot room. “Oh come on,” she needled from behind him, her voice way too close. Damn it, she would have to follow him. Knowing she would be stubborn enough to carry the damn conversation on even after they entered the room, Calvin stopped and turned to face her. “You don’t even know if I’m his type.” “Correction. I didn’t. Then I caught the way he was looking at you and I had all the proof I needed. He wants to take you for a ride in his ambulance in more ways than one.” Her lips pursed into a knowing smirk. He wondered, not for the first time, why he hung out with her. “You do realize how lame that sounds.” “Really?” The corner of her mouth cocked up thoughtfully. “I thought it was pretty sharp myself.” “It wasn’t. I think it would rank low, even for a bar pickup line.” “You only wish someone as hot as me would try to hook up with you.” “True, but alas, Todd beat me to you. How did I ever think I could compete with a firefighter who looks good in bunker gear?” “Don’t try to change the subject.” She pointed a finger at his chest. Calvin found himself sighing in defeat. “Fine, 15

Stephani Hecht I’ll agree to talk to him, but if I even sense he’s not interested, I’m backing off.” He turned around and started back for the exam room, ignoring her squeal of excitement. “I knew you’d see things my way.” “Like I had a choice. If I didn’t, you’d probably find a way for James and I to get accidently locked in the back of his ambulance.” Not waiting for her smart comeback, he went into the room.

16

Running Hot

Chapter Two

J

ames sat on the edge of the cot in the back of the ambulance stuffing scattered equipment back into the medic bag. The sun had dipped beyond the horizon so it was starting to get chilly, but he still had both rear doors wide open to let fresh air blow through the rig. While he liked Indian Jack, the man did carry a certain…distinctive smell and James wanted it long gone before they had to take off again. When the double bay doors to the hospital swished open, he looked over, expecting it to be Matt. When he saw Dr. Calvin come through instead, James swallowed hard as his body grew tight with desire. How could it be that the man could still look so good, even when it was obvious he’d been working a marathon shift? Although Calvin’s eyes had dark circles around them and there was a haggard look about him, Calvin still had this classy handsome vibe that called to him. His dark hair shone under the 17

Stephani Hecht bright lights of the bay. It was just messy enough to be sexy without coming off slobby. It had an almost bedroom quality that made him itch to run his fingers through it. Calvin started to walk toward the row of ambulances and James sucked in a breath as need shot through his body. Even with the baggy scrubs and lab coat he wore, the hard muscles of Calvin’s body were clearly visible, from his broad chest to his hard abs that were just begging to be licked. James gaped, a blood pressure cuff hung limply in his hands, forgotten. Oh, the things he’d love to do to Calvin’s body. Licking would be the first on the long list. There would definitely be some biting and kissing, too. He hadn’t been fucked in a long time, choosing to focus on work and school instead, but for a piece of that he’d be willing to break his streak. He was so caught up in his lust-filled thoughts he almost didn’t realize Calvin was coming toward his rig until the man was nearly standing right in front of him. With a nervous cough, James started to jam stuff back in the bag as he prayed to all that was holy his boner wasn’t visible. Trying to be as causal as possible, he shifted his bag slightly so it covered most of his lap. “Did I forget something?” James asked as soon as the doctor was close enough to talk without shouting. “No, I needed to speak to you.” Calvin came up 18

Running Hot and leaned against one of the open doors. He was less than a foot away and the warm, musky scent of his cologne teased his senses. “Is it the cookies? I’m sorry. I know I shouldn’t have given that second one to Jack. I just got a little ticked and wanted to lash out. I thought sweets were the best way,” James teased. Shut up. You sound like an idiot! Whenever he got nervous, he tended to babble like a loon and obviously today wasn’t going to be any different. The last time he’d been this anxious had been a year ago when he’d been on a date with a cop. A half hour into it, James had confessed, during one of his nervous rants, he had always been for Team Aniston. His date had given him a strange look and the night hadn’t lasted much longer after that. Guess he had been on Team Angelia. That or he didn’t want saddled with a dork who obviously spent most of his weekends watching E! “Relax.” Calvin reached in and gave his knee an all-too brief squeeze. A slow sizzle burned on James’s skin at the contact. “I’m not here to ball you out over a cookie.” “They’re his favorite. The only way we can get him to agree to go in for treatment is to promise him chocolate chip.” James gave a small laugh. “That and root beer apparently. That’s his newest craving.” 19

Stephani Hecht “It’s a good thing you did get him to come here. Jack’s pretty sick and I don’t know how much longer he would have lasted on the streets.” Calvin shifted slightly so he was standing even closer. He was really crowding James’s space. For a brief, hopeful moment, he wondered if the doctor were doing it on purpose. He quickly dismissed the notion. In all the time he’d known the man, he’d never once shown an interest. “Jack’s a good guy. At least he is when he’s not running away or mooning me.” Calvin chuckled. “That must have been an interesting sight.” “You have no idea. But I’m sure that’s not what you came out here to talk to me about.” If he was going to get yelled at for doing something wrong, might as well get it over with. He scrambled his mind, going back over the medical treatment he’d given the patient, trying to figure out what Calvin could possibly object to, but came up with nothing. “I wanted to apologize for all the fuss that was made over where to put the patient. It wasn’t very professional and I’m sorry you had to see it.” This time there was no mistaking it when Calvin moved closer. Shit, the guy was so close now his body was pressed into James’s leg. Another jolt of desire 20

Running Hot went though him, making it difficult to breathe as all thoughts focused on his own knee. Should I move it? If I don’t and he didn’t mean to get this close, then it could get awkward. But, if he does mean it and I move back, he might not think I’m interested and that’s the last thing I want. In the end, he settled for keeping his leg in place, but trying hard for a casual face. “It’s no big deal.” James shrugged as he pulled his bag further over his lap. By now, his cock was so hard it had almost reached the point of painful and all from just touching the guy. God forbid if Calvin made an actual move. James would probably make an ass out of himself and blow his wad within ten seconds. “Is this the last run for you guys tonight?” Calvin asked, abruptly changing the subject. “Yeah, we’re just getting off a twelve hour shift. How about you?” “Jack was my last patient.” Calvin yawned. One of the doors to the ambulance was pressed against his back so they were mostly hidden from view unless someone walked around to the rear of the vehicle. All of the sudden James became aware that they could engage in all kinds of intimate activities, should they want to. His hand itched to reach out and touch Calvin. Fear held him back. Just because Calvin was standing close didn’t mean anything. Or did it? “You probably can’t 21

Stephani Hecht wait to get home.” James cleared his throat because his voice had suddenly taken a harsh edge to it. “Not really. Don’t get me wrong, I’m tired and can’t wait to get a shower,” Calvin said, right before he put his hand on James’s knee again. “It just gets lonely there sometimes. Now if I had someone to keep me company, that would change things completely.” He raked a hungry gaze over James’s body, leaving no doubt to the underlying invitation to his words. James sucked in a breath. A warm heat surged through him. Did he want to be that someone to occupy the doctor? There were two words that answered that question—hell and yes. “Somehow I find it hard to believe that someone as good looking as you has trouble finding company.” James allowed himself to lean toward the hard body next to him. It was just a couple of inches, but he hoped it was enough to let Calvin know he not only got the message, but was more than willing to play along. “I don’t want just anybody though.” Calvin’s hand traveled up higher, so it was just below James’s cock. Leaning in closer, his lips just inches from James’s ear, he whispered, “I’m very picky about who I spend my time with. Only a certain type will do for me.” “What type is that?” James panted. It was 22

Running Hot getting harder to breathe the higher up Calvin’s hand went. “Let’s just say I have it bad for a certain medic. Must be the uniform.” Finally, Calvin’s caress found James’s needy cock. His fingers wrapped around the bulge and gave it a gentle squeeze. James let out a yelp of surprise as desire coursed through his veins like a drug. A part of him still couldn’t believe this was happening. Ever since Calvin had come to St. Michael’s, James had a mad crush on the doctor. In all that time though, Calvin had never even seemed to notice he was alive. Now, not only had he come on to him, but he was giving him a hand job in the middle of the ambulance bay where anyone could come upon them at any moment. He knew he should push Calvin’s hand away. Shit, Matt could come waltzing out only to get bitch slapped with a huge surprise. Instead, James tossed the bag aside so his lap was fully exposed and nothing could encumber Calvin’s progress. “Eager, little thing.” Calvin chuckled, giving another squeeze, hard enough to elicit a moan from him. “I can’t wait to see your reaction, once I really get to touch you.” James bit back a whimper, the man’s words almost driving him to the edge. It was true though. If he was reacting this way to Calvin 23

Stephani Hecht caressing him through the thick fabric of his pants, then how was it going to be skin-on-skin? “Is that all you have planned—touching?” He rolled his hips up, thrusting himself into Calvin’s hand. “You’ll just have to wait and see, won’t you?” Calvin nipped his earlobe, making him jump as a shiver snaked down his spine. The bay doors swooshed opened and Calvin jumped back, almost slamming into the rig’s door in his haste to pull away. James didn’t take offense, knowing the last thing either of them needed was to be caught making out. Not that he was afraid of it getting out that he was gay or anything. While he’d never announced it to his coworkers, he’d never made it a secret either. It’s just he didn’t want to be the latest source of gossip buzz and him frolicking around in the back of his ambulance with either a man or woman would be the surest way for that to happen. “Hey, Doc, what are you doing slumming?” Matt cracked as he came around the rig and tossed the drug box into the back. The smile faltered on his mug as his gaze went from Calvin to James and then back to Calvin again. “I just wanted to thank you and James for doing such a good job out there.” Calvin pushed against the door then walked away, giving one last wave on his way back into the hospital. Matt weakly returned the gesture before he 24

Running Hot turned his attention back on James. “Why do I get the feeling I interrupted something?” he asked, his eyes narrowing way too knowingly. James was horrified to find himself blushing under the scrutiny. They stared at one another for several seconds. James tensed, wondering what his partner’s reaction was going to be. Matt’s face didn’t give away anything and James wondered if he was mad. It wouldn’t be the first time someone had gone off and refused to work with the homo. “Next time use the code,” Matt drawled, slowly shaking his head. “The code,” James echoed, confused. “Yes, if you need me to stay away for a few extra minutes because you want some alone time, call me and say that the rig is missing a backboard and you’re going to look for it.” Matt shot off a wicked grin, showing he’d probably used this excuse more than once to get some privacy. “That’s all you have to say?” James couldn’t resist asking. “What? You think I’m going to have an issue because you’re into guys?” Matt snorted. “You’re a damn good medic and a great partner. That’s all I care about.” “Oh.” James found himself momentarily speechless as he hopped out of the back of the rig, then slammed one of the doors shut. Matt slammed the other closed and they both 25

Stephani Hecht went to the front and got in. As usual, Matt took the driver’s seat. They had established early on in their partnership that he liked to be in control. Matt put on his sunglasses on and flashed a smile so cheesy James cracked up. “That just means I get all the ladies to myself.” “God help them.” James chuckled. **** I can’t believe I groped him like that. He probably thinks I’m a walking hard-on or something. Calvin silently berated himself as he bypassed the emergency department and made his way down the hallway leading to the staff locker rooms. He cringed when he saw Janet lying in wait, almost like he was Lindsey and she was the paparazzi. “What happened?” she demanded, her eyes wide with excitement. “I made a complete and utter ass out of myself.” He darted a glance up and down the hallway, relieved to note they were alone. “Why? Wasn’t he interested?” Janet gasped. Her hand went to his arm in a show of concern. Or maybe it was pity. Lord knows he was loser enough today to earn both. “Not exactly.” He sighed before he told her every detail of what had gone down. It was a true testament to their friendship that he didn’t leave out one 26

Running Hot embarrassing detail either. When he finished, he expected sympathy, a shoulder to cry on maybe, what he got was….laughter? “What in the hell is so funny?” he asked as he watched her crack up so hard that she actually doubled over. “I’m so sorry. I’m just having trouble picturing you copping a feel like that. You are one of the most reserved guys I know.” That made him pause. Why had he come onto James so hard? When he’d gone out to the ambulance all he’d intended to do was strike up a friendly conversation, instead he’d practically shoved his hands down the man’s pants. All it had taken was for James to look up at him with those deep blue eyes of his and he’d lost all rational reasoning. “What can I say? I have a soft spot for a guy in a uniform,” Calvin quipped, using his earlier words. Then he frowned as the anxiety returned. “Do you think I scared him away?” “I don’t think so. You said yourself he was very…excited about you touching him.” A sly smile came over his face as Calvin remembered how hard James had been, how he’d thrown aside the bag and thrust up for more. God, his cock had felt so good, even through all those layers of clothing. How would it feel to really touch it? To taste it? Would James be that eager bed? “I know a way you can see if he’s really 27

Stephani Hecht interested,” Janet suggested. “I’m almost afraid to ask.” More than once he’d gotten into hot water, thanks to her schemes. “Matt said he and some of the guys were going out to Coolers tonight.” “And that name’s supposed to mean something to me?” He couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. “You really need to get out more. It’s a local bar that a lot of the medics and firefighters hang out at.” “Okay, nice to know in case I ever have to buy a firefighter or medic a gift certificate somewhere, but how is that going to help me?” She gave him a duh stare. “Really, Cal, it’s a miracle you got through med school without me there to hold your hand. If Matt’s going to be there, it’s a pretty good bet James will as well. They’re friends outside of work, too.” “Are you suggesting I just all of the sudden pop into a bar I’ve never been to before and act like it’s a coincidence I run into James?” “When Matt was here, he asked me to stop by and hang out with them a while. We can just act like I dragged you with me.” She beamed, obviously proud of her devious scheme. He had to admit though, her idea might just work. Of course, that’d mean he’d have to put off going to bed even longer. He weighed his options. 28

Running Hot Go home and get some sleep. Go to the bar and maybe run into James. In the end, it was a nobrainer. “Okay, give me an hour to get ready.”

29

Stephani Hecht

Chapter Three

J

ames leaned back in his seat and idly picked the label off his beer bottle. All around him, the bar teemed with activity that only a Friday night out could bring. Matt was in the thick of it, laughing loudly at jokes and flirting outrageously with the waitress, who seemed more amused than annoyed by all the attention. Several other medics from his company were there and they were just as noisy. James, on the other hand, just wasn’t feeling it. Sure, he smiled at their comments and made an attempt to bullshit back, but the entire time, he found himself wishing he could just go home. It’s not like he didn’t enjoy a good time or anything. Usually he would be trading smartass comments right along with them, but he just couldn’t get in the mood. His mind kept drifting back to Calvin and what had gone down between the two of them. For the life of him, he couldn’t think what could have brought it on. It had been months since he’d met 30

Running Hot the man and not once had Calvin even given him an interested glance, let alone let on that he was feeling an attraction. Could it be possible Calvin was playing some sort of game? Slumming with the lowly paramedic in hopes of a quick fuck without any strings attached? It wouldn’t be the first time someone had used James for a good time and then walked away the next morning without a backward glance. Before now, it had never bothered him though. Too busy with work and nursing school, he’d never wanted to put any time into a real relationship. So why did it bother him so much Calvin might be looking for a hookup and nothing more? “What crawled up your ass and died?” Matt asked as he dropped into the chair next to James. “I’m just tired. I should probably get going since I have to get up early for class in the morning.” “Quit being such a buzzkill and have another drink.” Matt slid a full beer toward him despite the fact he hadn’t even drank half of his first one. “Yeah, because getting up will be so much easier if I have a hangover. Whatever was I thinking?” James rolled his eyes. Matt ignored him, his attention fixated on something at the front of the bar. “Hey look! Janet’s here and she’s not alone.” 31

Stephani Hecht Taking a slow pull of his beer, James glanced over to see what had Matt all excited. Not that he was really that interested or anything, he did it mainly to humor his buddy. Once James got a gander though, he nearly choked on his drink. It was Calvin and he’d never looked sexier. Dressed in dark slacks and a red button-up shirt, with his hair slicked back, he was the epitome of sensuality. The top few buttons of his shirt were undone, revealing the smallest bit of tanned flesh and James found himself licking his lips, wondering how that skin would feel under his tongue. When Janet started to lead him over to their table, James’s heart started to hammer in anticipation and fear. It didn’t help matters that Calvin’s gaze was locked on him and there was more than a little bit of heat in his dark eyes. “Damn,” Matt breathed, his voice barely noticeable above the din of the bar. “Why can’t I get Janet to look at me the way Doc is looking at you?” “Class. I have it, you don’t,” James teased, never taking his gaze off Calvin. Damn, the man even walked sexy. His body moving with a sensual, yet masculine grace that just begged to be noticed. “I have class,” Matt objected, sounding wounded. James knew better. It took a lot more 32

Running Hot than just an offhand cut down to get under his partner’s skin. “Please,” James snorted. “You are not only the one person I know who still owns a tuxedo t-shirt, but you actually wear it out.” “Some things never go out of style.” Matt took a drink of beer before adding, “You’re just mad because you don’t have one.” “Yes, and that bitter jealously eats me alive inside. I can’t sleep at night because of it.” Before Matt could fire a comeback, Janet and Calvin reached the table. “Janet, did you come just for me?” Matt asked, a lazy smile kicking up the corners of his lips. “If I lie and say yes, does that mean you’ll buy me a drink?” Janet countered, sweetly. James laughed. “For that, I’ll buy both you and Calvin one.” He signaled the waitress. “I don’t get any love.” Matt sadly shook his head, but there was an amused glint in his eyes. “Oh, don’t feel too bad. Your lines still work on a couple of the younger nurses.” Janet patted Matt’s hand. “Naiveté is your best friend.” James exchanged amused glances with Calvin. Despite Janet’s biting comments, it was easy to see she was amused by Matt’s cocky attitude. Leaving them to banter back and forth, James ordered a couple more beers. Once the waitress left, he leaned forward a little bit toward Calvin. “I’m a 33

Stephani Hecht little surprised to see you here,” he said, as he balled his hands up in fists to resist the urge to reach out and touch the man. “Why, do I have the reputation of a bore or something?” Calvin asked, the corners of his mouth quirking. “No,” James shook his head, worried he’d insulted the doctor. “You just looked so tired I thought you‘d go straight home and crash.” “Janet told me she was coming here and she convinced me to tag along.” “I’m glad she did.” James felt himself blush at the admission. Then Calvin smiled at him and suddenly he felt so much better. “So am I.” The two of them fell into a long, pleasant, stress-free conversation and soon they were sharing their life stories with each other. James talked about how he’d always wanted to go to nursing school, but since his father was a laid-off autoworker, he was having to work his way through college. While Calvin shared how he’d grown up in a family of doctors and how it was just always assumed he would follow the same path. “What if you had told them you’d wanted to become an engineer or something?” James asked. He instantly regretted the question when he saw the look of hurt flicker over Calvin’s face. 34

Running Hot “I think they would have handled that a lot worse than when I came out to them.” James couldn’t imagine having to live under all that pressure. While his parents hadn’t always been able to support him financially, they’d always been there emotionally. “That sucks, I’m sorry.” “Don’t get me wrong, I love being a doctor. It’s just I wish it could have happened under better circumstances.” He gave a wry chuckle. “But I’m sure you didn’t plan on sitting around all night and listening to poor-little-rich-boy stories.” “No, I don’t mind. Honestly.” He didn’t either. James wanted to know every detail about Calvin. “I feel bad though, I’m keeping you up and you said you had school tomorrow.” James looked down at his cell phone, shocked when he saw it was nearly two in the morning. “Wow, I didn’t realize it was so late.” “Do you have a ride home?” Calvin asked. “Yeah, I drove myself here and since I’ve only had half a beer I’m good to drive. How about you?” “Janet drove me.” He craned his head around. Sometime during their marathon discussion, she and Matt had disappeared. James hadn’t even noticed their absence until now. He took a deep breath, nervously licking his lips before he took the plunge. “I could give you a 35

Stephani Hecht lift home if you like?” Calvin gave a lazy grin. James’s stomach did a strange flip. “I’d like that a lot. Let’s go.” A thrill of excitement went through James as they got up and walked through the bar. I can’t believe I’m actually doing this. The very first time I get a chance to weasel an invite to his home and I can’t jump on it fast enough. Nothing like letting on that you’re desperate and an easy lay. Why don’t you just get a flashing neon sign that says, Loser! Slut! and be done with it? Despite his inner warning system yelling at him, James knew he was powerless to stop this from happening. Just one look at Calvin’s tight ass, how his sensual eyes seemed to hold all kinds of naughty promises and James knew he was a goner. As they walked outside into the cool night air, he pointed to the left. “I’m over here.” Calvin’s lips split into a huge grin. “You drive a Mustang?” James felt a little proud that his ride obviously pleased the man. “Yes, it’s an older one, but my dad taught me a lot about cars so I manage to keep it going.” Calvin ran his hand, lovingly on the red hood. “I love it.” James watched the way his fingers caressed the car and for one insane second, envied the vehicle. 36

Running Hot He reached over and unlocked the passenger side door. “Thanks. I don’t think I’ll be ever able to bring myself to replace it.” “You do and I’ll call for a psych evaluation to make sure you haven’t lost it,” Calvin declared as he opened the door and climbed in. James chuckled before he went over to the other side and got in behind the wheel. As soon as the dome light went off, he became vividly aware of how close the confines of the car were. Calvin was just inches from him. All it would take was the smallest of movements and he could touch the man, caress him, maybe even kiss him. He was pretty sure Calvin would be responsive to him. There was no doubt in his mind anymore, the attraction was going both ways. Still he paused, afraid to take the next step. “James,” Calvin beckoned in a soft voice. When he turned his head to see what he wanted, Calving grabbed him by the back of the head and brought him in for a kiss. The instant their lips touched, he knew he was lost. Calvin’s mouth was so warm, so soft and he knew how to use it so well. With deft strokes of his tongue, Calvin coaxed him to part his lips. As soon as he complied, Calvin plunged inside his mouth. James moaned as pleasure rocked through his body. Calvin tasted sweet, although there was a little tang of beer there, too. It made him hungry for 37

Stephani Hecht more and he thrust his tongue out to meet Calvin’s. All too soon it was over and they retreated to their sides of the car. James realized he was panting. His hands shook like he was some teen experiencing his first sexual encounter. It had been years since anyone had affected him this way and it both alarmed and amazed him. He was more than secretly pleased to see Calvin was having pretty much the same reaction. Calvin even brought his fingers to his lips and his face wore an what-the-hell-just-hit-me expression. “Where do you live?” James asked. “A couple of minutes from here.” He then proceeded to give James directions to one of the higher end condo developments. “Do you know the place?” “Yes, I had a heart attack patient there last month.” He started the car and backed up. Neither of them spoke much on the short drive. He was too nervous and jacked up to think of any small talk to fill the void and Calvin seemed content to just look out the window. “Mine is the third one on the left.” Calvin pointed to a large two-story condo that even had an attached garage. James tried not to be impressed, but it was hard. The place made his tiny, rundown apartment look like the slums of Nairobi. A knot of guilt cramped his stomach as it dawned on him 38

Running Hot how out of his league Calvin was. He realized his mouth was slightly agape in awe and he quickly snapped it shut. Pulling into the driveway, he put it park, but didn’t stop the engine. If this was truly just a ride home, he didn’t want to make a fool of himself by letting on he was eager for something more. “Here we go,” he declared for lack of anything more intelligent to say. With one quick move, Calvin reached out and grabbed James by the front of his shirt. A yelp of surprise burst from his throat right before he found himself being hauled in for another kiss. Once he got over his shock, he became a willing participant, leaning in even more so he could get a good grip on Calvin’s shoulders. His cock pressed against the fly of his pants and James wished he could shift even closer so he could rub himself against Calvin’s hard body. Once they broke apart this time, they didn’t move apart. Instead, they continued to hold each other, their foreheads pressed together as they both panted for breath. “Come inside with me,” Calvin ordered in a strained voice. That was something James didn’t even have to think of twice. Nodding, he said, “That would probably be a good idea. If we keep this up while we’re still in my car, you’re neighbors might start talking.” 39

Stephani Hecht “Yes, I wouldn’t want to end up the topic of discussion in this month’s newsletter.” James laughed as they got out and headed for the door. As he watched Calvin work the lock, his heart pounded with anticipation and nerves. After all these months of lusting after the doctor, he could hardly believe they were finally going to be together. “It’s a little messy,” Calvin apologized as he gestured for James to go in. “You should see my place it—” James was cut off when Calvin pinned him to the wall and started to kiss the breath out of him. James returned the urgency, so hungry for the man that he growled low in his throat as he thrust his tongue inside Calvin’s hot mouth. Calvin responded by pressing the length of his body to him. A shiver of desire snaked down his spine as he felt Calvin’s thick hard cock rubbing against him. Calvin broke away only long enough to shut the door behind them before he returned, kissing again with the same passion. “If you only knew how long I’ve been waiting to do this,” Calvin declared before he nipped at his bottom lip. “You should have said something sooner.” James moaned as he thrust his hips forward so his erection ground against Calvin. “I’ve been hot for you since the first time we met.” James sucked in a 40

Running Hot breath when Calvin slid his hands under his shirt. The sensation of the man’s fingers touching his stomach and chest made the adrenalin already shooting through his blood jack up another level. He reached out blindly to unbutton Calvin’s top. In his haste, he made one of the buttons pop off. He winced when it made a loud clacking sound as it hit the hardwood floor. “Sorry,” he whispered. “Forget the damn shirt.” Calvin helped him undo it the rest of the way. Shrugging it off, he tossed it to the side. As soon as his tan chest was exposed, James couldn’t stop himself from touching it. “Damn, you’re gorgeous,” he breathed out as he splayed his hands so he could feel more of Calvin’s skin at once. He couldn’t get enough of it. Maybe once they had made it to the bed and were pressed naked together, he’d finally be sated, but he somehow doubted even that would be enough. “Wow, coming from the most sought after medic, that’s a huge compliment.” “Funny.” James continued to slowly explore Calvin’s body, lingering to circle one of his fingers around Calvin’s nipple, making the man hiss in pleasure. “I’m serious.” Calvin’s eyelids fluttered closed as he moaned. “Half of the female staff has fallen in lust with you. If they knew I was with you now, they’d probably revolt and try to claw my eyes 41

Stephani Hecht out.” James ducked his head to hide his pleased smile. It may have been his imagination, but he could swear he heard a hint of jealously in Calvin’s voice. “Too bad for them, because it’s you I want,” James said before he leaned down and flicked his tongue over Calvin’s nipple. “I’m beginning to love that sweet mouth of yours,” Calvin moaned. “Little do you know, I’m just getting started.” That must have been the words that finally pushed Calvin past the breaking point. Grabbing the front of James’s shirt again, he slammed him back against the wall. James let out a hiss of pain even as a fresh wave of desire hit him. “Bedroom. Now,” Calvin ordered in a near growl. “I don’t know where it is,” James replied, somewhat hopelessly. Bed—no bed, right now, he didn’t give a damn. Just so long as Calvin fucked him. Hell, he’d be willing to fall down on the hardwood floor and do it right there. A slight smirk passed over Calvin’s kissswollen lips, almost as if he could read what James was thinking. Still holding him by the front of the shirt, Calvin led him down the hall and to the last door on the left. Once they got into the large room, James turned the tables. Putting a hand on Calvin’s chest, he 42

Running Hot pushed the man against the wall and swooped in to capture his mouth in a scorching kiss. When he heard Calvin let out a small whimper, a thrill went though him, knowing he’d managed to cause that reaction from the usually reserved man. It made him want more, to see just out of control he could make Calvin. Dropping to his knees, James looked up at him from under his lashes. “I’ve wanted to taste this cock for so long I don’t think I can wait another minute. Do you mind?” Calvin gazed down, raw desire burning in his dark eyes. “Like I’m going to say no to that.” James chuckled softly as he lowered the zipper on Calvin’s pants. Popping the button, he pulled them down to expose the man’s dark boxers. He paused long enough to nip at Calvin’s erection through the material of his underwear, before he tugged those down, too, so he could finally get at his guy’s cock. “Fuck, now I know you’re perfect all over,” James observed before he darted his tongue out to lick the crown of Calvin’s erection. A bit of precum had collected there and he moaned as the salty taste washed over his tongue. “You keep this up and I’m not going to last long.” Even as Calvin made that threat, he threaded his fingers into his hair to urge him on. “Let’s just hope you have a fast recovery time.” 43

Stephani Hecht James parted his lips before wrapping them around Calvin’s thick, warm cock. Yes, this was as good as he’d always dreamed it would be. Calvin’s dick was so big, so hard and it was all for him. He knew he’d been brought here for just a brief, good time and, that when all was said and done, he and Calvin would go back to the cool professional relationship they had before. But tonight, he was all his and, before it was over, James vowed to have Calvin begging for it.

44

Running Hot

Chapter Four

J

ames was moving so slow it was all Calvin could do not to beg for more. The paramedic took his time, sucking in Calvin’s cock one inch at a time. Frustrated, he tried to thrust forward and bury himself balls deep into James’s mouth. James grunted in response, his strong hand reaching out to grab his hip, forcing him to hold still. “You keep this up and I’m going to have to torture you back,” Calvin warned. James moaned in response, the vibrations traveling all the way up his dick. Then James started to get to work. At one point sucking in so hard, his cheeks hollowed out. Calvin slammed the back of his head against the wall as he bit back a cry of pleasure. Closing his eyes, he allowed James to really take control of their encounter. Always the one in charge in his career and in all his past relationships, it was heady to let someone else call the shots for once. He’d been right about one thing, James had the sweetest mouth. He knew 45

Stephani Hecht when to go hard and when to pull back and give soft teasing caresses with his tongue and lips. Calvin managed to hold back with sheer will. Until James looked up with those intense, blue eyes of his. As they locked gazes, something strange pulled at him. It made him want to claim James as he had done with no other, to mark him as his in some way. With a roar, he fisted his fingers in James’s hair and pulled the man off his cock. Calvin wrapped his fingers around his own cock and stroked himself. It only took a couple of pumps to bring himself to completion. Letting out a hoarse cry, he shot off, his cum hitting James in the face. James caught some of the fluid with his open mouth, but a large amount of it splashed onto his cheeks and chin. Harsh, hard breaths raked through him as he watched James’s tongue dart out to lick away some of the semen. James closed his eyes and hummed, almost as if savoring the taste. “Stand up,” Calvin ordered in a ragged voice. As soon as James complied, he leaned forward and licked away the remains. He moved slow, making lazy paths with his tongue as he savored the way the salt from James’s skin mixed with the tangy taste of his own cum. It wasn’t until James was completely clean that he pulled back. The bed beckoned and Calvin led James there, 46

Running Hot both of them pulling off each other’s clothing along the way. James had on heavy lace-up boots and there was a moment of awkwardness as they worked to tug them off. Finally, Calvin had James where he wanted him—naked and lying on the bed. Calvin crawled on top of the bed, straddling James’s hips. Even though he’d already had an orgasm, his cock was hard again and he couldn’t resist rubbing it against James. The man’s tan flesh, stood out starkly against his white comforter, the sight better than anything his erotic dreams could’ve conjured. “I can’t wait to learn every inch of this body,” Calvin said, right before he dipped his head down to lick one of James’s nipples. “Fuck me, please,” James moaned as he rolled his hips up. “Not until I have some fun first.” Calvin smiled against his flesh. “I warned you. Torture can go both ways.” “I’m in trouble, aren’t I?” James said, softly. Calvin didn’t answer him, instead he took his time, kissing and licking James all over. It wasn’t until they were both trembling with arousal that he pulled back. James twisted his body around awkwardly and started to reach to the floor for something. “What are you doing?” Calvin asked, grinning 47

Stephani Hecht at his odd behavior. “I got a condom in the pocket of my jeans.” “Here I got one.” Calvin stretched out over him to open the drawer to his nightstand. He hissed in pleasure when he felt James’s tongue lave his nipple and he fumbled blindly, his mind so occupied by what was happening to him, the simple act of grabbing something eluded him. “Hurry,” James pleaded, giving Calvin a gentle love bite. He ran his hands down Calvin’s sides making him shiver in response. “I’m trying. You’re not making it easy,” Calvin teased, finally finding a condom and the bottle of lubricant. He almost let out a whoop of joy as he praised all that was holy. Kissing his way back down James’s tight body, Calvin gave his cock one brief lick before he sat up on his knees. He tired to open the condom wrapper, but struggled because his hands were shaking so badly. A flush came to his face as he realized he must be coming off like some eager teen about to lose his virginity. Thankfully, an understanding smile came over James’s face before he sat up and took the wrapper. “Here, let me.” With deft movements, James ripped the package open, took the condom out and slowly slid it over Calvin’s cock, his fingers leaving behind a heated path. Calvin kissed him to show his gratitude before 48

Running Hot giving James a gentle shove on the chest. “Lie down and let me take care of you.” As soon as James complied, Calvin opened the cap of the lubricant and poured a liberal amount in his hand. Getting his fingers slick, Calvin reached between James’s legs and started to slowly circle his hole. Just as Calvin was sliding one finger in, James’s eyelids fluttered close. “Don’t shut your eyes,” he ordered in a harsh voice. “I want to see your expression while I’m making love to you.” James obeyed, his blue-eyed gaze burning into Calvin as he added a second finger, stretching the man out to take his cock. He moaned when he felt how tight James was, his ass clamping down on his fingers in a firm grip. “Please, Calvin, I can’t take anymore,” James panted. His cheeks flushed with desire and a fine sheen of sweat dotted his brow. Frankly, Calvin didn’t think he could either. His cock was near painful at this point and he was shaking even worse than before. Pulling his fingers out, Calvin threw one of James’s legs over his shoulder and slowly pressed his cock through the tight ring of muscle. James let out a small grunt that soon turned into a moan of pleasure. He started to close his eyes again, before he opened them, as if remembering Calvin’s earlier order. Calvin continued to surge forward, not 49

Stephani Hecht stopping until he was completely buried in James’s tight ass. He paused, wanting to give James’s body time to adjust, but his guy would have none of that. Digging his fingers into Calvin’s arms, he yelled, “Harder. I need to know you mean it.” The strange way he put that gave Calvin pause, but he decided to worry about it later. All that mattered at the moment was giving James what he wanted, a thorough hard screwing. Putting one hand on James’s leg, the other on his shoulder, Calvin started to pound into him. The look of pure bliss that passed over James’s face almost made him come on the spot. It took all his discipline and biting his bottom lip to hold back. “Yes, just like that,” James moaned. His fingers were digging so hard into Calvin’s arms that he was probably leaving bruises behind. Calvin let go of James’s leg so he could grab the man’s cock instead. At this rate, he knew he wasn’t going to last long and he wanted them to come together. James was letting out groans, the sound punctuated by Calvin’s thrusts. This time when he closed his eyes, Calvin didn’t admonish him. “So good. So tight,” Calvin gasped, right before a hard orgasm slammed into his body. Crying out James’s name, he came, filling the condom. A couple of thrusts later, James joined him, his hot 50

Running Hot fluid coating both of their stomachs. Calvin stayed inside James, not pulling out until he was soft. Rolling off James, he collapsed to his side. He wanted to stay awake longer. There was so much he wanted to say to James, but being awake for two days finally caught up to him. Calvin’s lids dropped shut and he drifted off to sleep. But not before he reached out and wrapped his arms around James. “Alpha 304 is coming in,” Janet said softly as she came into the X-Ray room. Calvin didn’t look up, trying to play it cool, even though his heart was thundering in his chest. “What do they have?” “A priority three, emphysema patient from Snyder’s Nursing Home. James called it in and said he had the transport on oxygen and he’s stable now.” At the mention of James’s name, Calvin’s heart started to pound harder as his gut clenched in anticipation. It had been three days since their encounter. Three days since Calvin had awakened to find the bed empty, the sheets cool and obviously unslept in. Three days and not once in all that time had James made any attempt to contact him. “How far out are they?” He winced when he noticed how strained his voice sounded. “Five minutes.” Janet’s face looked so 51

Stephani Hecht compassionate. It made Calvin feel even worse—like he was some loser who was getting a heavy dish of pity because his heart had been stomped on. The worst part of it was, he knew he had no good reason to feel slighted or hurt. When James had gone home with him, neither one had even mentioned anything about them becoming an actual couple. The medic probably was used to having guys throw themselves at him, wanting a quick hookup. He obviously thought Calvin was no different. You just had to fall asleep, didn’t you? If he’d managed to stay awake, then maybe he’d have worked up the courage to tell James that their encounter meant so much to him. That he wanted them to spend more time together—a lot more time. Instead, he probably relayed a false message that the sex had been just that—sex and nothing more, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Calvin had not been able to get James out of his mind. It had gotten to the point where all his thoughts were consumed with the dark, sexy medic. Even while he was working, he constantly strained his ears, hoping to hear the smooth rich tones of the man. “Hello, are you there?” Janet poked him in the ribs, bringing him out of his musings. “Sorry,” Calvin ran his hand through his hair in 52

Running Hot frustration. God, with all his moping and internal whining he was no better than a teen girl pining over the football hero. “Should I put the patient in room six? It just emptied out,” Janet suggested, gently getting him back on topic. “Yeah, sounds good. Go get set up and I’ll be right in.” After Janet left, Calvin checked up on one of his patients before meeting her, so by the time he got into the room, the transport had arrived. Even though they had already transferred the patient from the cot to the bed, James was still by the elderly man’s side. Once Calvin got closer, he saw the paramedic couldn’t move because the patient was holding his hand. Even though the man was gasping for breath and had on an oxygen mask, he was talking a mile a minute to James who was patiently nodding his head. Calvin smiled as he felt warm from the inside out. Everyone who came into contact with James instantly liked him and it looked like this guy was no different. Well, everyone that was excerpt for Gladys who was shooting disapproving glares from the nurse’s station. It didn’t help matters when Matt gave Nurse Bitter Bones a cocky smile as he waved at her. “Who do we have here?” he asked. James looked up at him and Calvin cursed the fact he couldn’t read the guy’s expression. 53

Stephani Hecht “Mr. Hadley has been having trouble breathing today.” As James rattled on, listing vitals and detailing the treatment he’d given the patient, Calvin’s stomach dropped. The clipped, professional tone in James’s voice didn’t sound any different from what it always had, like nothing had occurred between them. “You’re not going to leave me here all alone are you?” Mr. Hadley asked James. If Calvin hadn’t known better, he would have sworn the old man had an almost flirtatious tone to his words. He shook his head, immediately dismissing the notion. It must be because the way the oxygen mask was muffling his voice. “I wouldn’t worry. Dr. Dane is going to take real good care of you.” James tried to gently extract his hand with little luck. “But I don’t like him as much as I do you.” Mr. Hadley wiggled his eyebrows at James. Matt coughed to hide his snort of laughter and Janet’s face turned red from her efforts to hold back her amusement. James finally managed to get his hand free and started to make a hasty retreat. When the medic stopped long enough to pick the blanket from his cot off the floor, Calvin caught Mr. Hadley checking out that tight ass. “Easy, there big guy,” Calvin drawled. “I don’t 54

Running Hot think your heart can stand anymore excitement.” “Really?” Mr. Hadley pulled off his mask and flashed a lewd smile. “I was thinking maybe I should get sick more often.” “We’d be more than happy to come anytime you need us. If you want, you can even ask for James specifically,” Matt happily supplied. James shot his partner a murderous glare. “I’m going out to clean the rig and finish the paperwork.” James paused to give the elderly man a parting wave. “I hope you feel better, Mr. Hadley, and Matt was right, you can call us anytime.” Just as he reached the door, James darted a glance toward Calvin. It was so brief that if Calvin hadn’t been looking he would have missed it. What he saw lingering in James’s eyes gave him hope for the first time since he woke up alone in that cold bed. Even though James may be trying to hide it, Calvin couldn’t miss the longing stamped in James’s expression. It made Calvin decide one thing. There was no way in hell James was going to leave the hospital without the two of them having a chat. Thankfully, within ten minutes, another doctor came back on duty and Calvin was able to ask her to take over Mr. Hadley’s care for a while. Telling Janet it was time for his lunch break, he left the Emergency Department. It was hard, but he didn’t 55

Stephani Hecht rise to the bait when she shot him a knowing look. Going to the double doors leading to the ambulance bay, he breathed a sigh of relief, noticing that James’s rig was the only one there. It was dark outside, but he still could see his guy’s shadow moving around the ambulance. This time the rear doors were closed so Calvin used the side one instead. James was sitting in the jump seat, a thick metal clipboard balanced on his knees. If he was surprised to see Calvin, he didn’t act it. Instead, he only gave him the barest of glances before he returned his focus to the run sheet he was filling out. “You didn’t say goodbye,” Calvin said, careful to keep his voice neutral. “Sure I did. I even told the horn ball he could call if he was ever sick again.” James continued to stare at the paperwork. It were almost as if he were being intentionally rude so as to push Calvin away. A half hour ago, Calvin would have been put off with it. Believed the man wanted nothing to do with him. That was before he saw the look James had tossed his way on the way out. He had no doubt James wanted this as much as he did. There had to be something holding him back from admitting it though. Calvin determined he would find out, too, even if he had to sit in the back of the goddamn ambulance all night long. “You know what I’m 56

Running Hot talking about. Don’t be coy, even though you do look damn sexy while doing it.” That finally got a reaction. James’s head snapped up, his eyes sharp with anger. “I told you I had class the next day. So I got up early and didn’t want to wake you.” Closing the door, he took the bench seat opposite of James. Leaning forward on his knees, Calvin slowly shook his head. “Sorry, that just doesn’t wash. If you had really done it to be considerate, you could have at least left a note or called me.” James let out an aggravated sigh. “Look, I just thought I’d save us the trouble of exchanging the usual fake I’ll-call-you-tomorrows. Besides, even if I had wanted to give you a call, I couldn’t since we don’t have each other’s numbers.” “How do you know that I didn’t want to see you again?” Calvin challenged. He knew he shouldn’t be taking delight in James’s anger, but couldn’t help it. If this had just been some casual encounter, then there is no way James would be getting this worked up over it. No, he did care. He obviously wasn’t ready to admit it yet though. “Come on, since when would a rich doctor go slumming with someone like me, unless it was for a quick fuck?” “And how do you know I didn’t want more?” Calvin reached out and lightly skimmed his 57

Stephani Hecht fingers over James’s knee. “You never gave me a chance to prove otherwise.” James opened and closed his mouth several times like he was scrambling to find an argument to that logic. The anger quickly fled his face to be replaced doubt. Not much of an improvement, but at least it isn’t a step back. “What could you possibly want from me besides the obvious?” James asked. “I don’t know what guy made you so scared to trust anyone long enough to form a relationship, but if I ever find him, he’s going to be sorry.” Calvin leaned forward so his lips were just inches from James’s ear. “I’m going to prove to you that I’m worthy of your trust if it’s the last thing I do.” “How?” James whispered back. His body grew still and tense, but at least he wasn’t shrinking back or shoving Calvin away. At that moment, he was willing to take what he could. “I’m going to make sure that you’re so satisfied and cared for that you’re going to be too happy to worry. Maybe if I do that long enough, you’ll realize there is no way I can ever give you up. Not after I’ve known how right it is to be with you.” “It was just sex,” James protested. Calvin was pleased to hear how shaky his voice was. “No it wasn’t and you know it.” Reaching behind James’s head, Calvin pressed the light 58

Running Hot switch, plunging them into darkness. “Call Matt and stall him.” “We can’t do this here.” “Yes, we can. Maybe if I suck you—fuck you enough, it’ll finally sink in that you belong to me.” “Aren’t they going to miss you in the hospital?” James swallowed hard, as his body started to tremble. “No, I’m on my lunch break.” Calvin slid to his knees, positioning himself between James’s thighs. Looking up at him, he made a big show of licking his lips, enjoying the flare of desire the motion caused in James’s eyes. “And I’m only hungry for one thing. Now get on the phone and stall Matt so I can get to it.” James nodded once before he fished his phone of his pocket.

59

Stephani Hecht

Chapter Five answered on the first ring, which didn’t Matt surprise James. His partner seemed to live

with his cell in his hand so he was ready at all times. “I’m coming, so cool your jets.” James sucked in a breath as he felt his zipper being lowered. He looked down at Calvin and gave a frantic shake of his head, but the doctor ignored him and kept going, popping open the button to his fly next. “We’re…uh, a backboard short and I was going to see if they had any of ours here at the hospital,” James struggled to remember the cover story he was supposed to use. Not only were his nerves wreaking havoc on him, but the cool sensations of Calvin’s fingers as they wrapped around his cock was making him nearly brain dead. Then Calvin pulled him completely free from his pants and James knew he was a goner. “Ooookay,” Matt drew out, clearly surprised. “I can drag this out for fifteen more minutes.” 60

Running Hot “Thanks.” James sucked in a breath as Calvin’s tongue started to tease the crown of his cock. “Oh, fuck!” “Sheesh! At least wait until you hang up the damn phone. Yet, everyone calls me the horndog,” Matt admonished. James hung up and tossed his phone on the cot so he could focus solely on Calvin and what his mouth was doing. It was beyond reckless what they were doing. If they were to get caught, they would both be lucky to walk away with their jobs intact, yet James knew there was no way he’d be able to bring himself to stop Calvin. Not when it felt so damn good. “Take it all in,” James commanded, his tone raw with passion. When Calvin obeyed, sucking him into the velvet heat of his mouth, he cried out. His yell echoed in the quiet confines of the ambulance. Usually James would be content to sit back and let Calvin set the pace, but he knew they only had a few precious moments together. Not only was Matt coming back in fifteen, but another ambulance could pull up at any second. Grabbing the back of Calvin’s head to keep him still, James started to thrust into his mouth in quick even strokes. Calvin didn’t fight, seemingly all too glad to take it. Although he did add his tongue and teeth to the mix, making it all that much better. It only 61

Stephani Hecht took a few minutes before James felt his balls grow heavy and tight. He gave one last thrust before he came, his cock releasing into Calvin’s eager mouth. James cried out again, this time his lips forming Calvin’s name. James leaned his head back against the wall, enjoying the lingering shivers of pleasure that went through him as Calvin licked him clean. When finished, he tucked James’s cock back into his pants and zipped him back up. “I would have never pegged you for an exhibitionist,” James teased, hoping to cover how unsure of himself he still was. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me. I would love it if you gave both of us a chance to really get to know each other. In bed and out.” Calvin was still on his knees and leaned forward to press a kiss to James’s lips. A fresh jolt of desire shot through James as he tasted the essence of his cum still lingering in Calvin’s mouth. “Okay, I’ll give it a shot. For you,” James promised once they pulled apart. Calvin gave a self-satisfied smile before he grabbed James’s phone from the cot. Punching in some numbers, he then handed it over. “I programmed my number into your cell so now you have no excuse not to call anymore.” James laughed. “Okay, do you want me to call you tomorrow after we both get some sleep?” 62

Running Hot Calvin reached out to caress his jaw, making James shiver in response. How was it that a simple touch could set him off so easily? It had never been this intense with anyone before. With Calvin, it seemed like each touch set off a spark and made him crave for more. “I would rather you call me before so we can sleep together. Only this time, I want you to stick around long enough for me to wake up with you in my arms,” Calvin gazed up at him, his dark eyes almost beseeching. How can I deny that? James reached forward and gave him a kiss. “I think I would like that. I’ll give you a call as soon as I’m off and we can decide when and where to meet.” “Make sure you do that.” Calvin stood up. “I better get going before Gladys comes out looking for me.” “If that’s the case then let’s get naked and stretched out on the cot. Really give her the thrill of her lifetime.” Calvin laughed before he left. James finished up the run sheet and went back into the ER to hand it in. When he came back out to the rig, he found Matt waiting impatiently for him. “We’ve got all call,” he yelled from the driver’s seat. James ran over to the passenger side and hopped in. “What is it?” 63

Stephani Hecht “Man down outside one of the office buildings on Main.” Matt pulled out of the hospital parking lot and hit the siren. James grimaced. Man down could be anything from a full cardiac arrest to a drunk passed out in the grass. He grabbed a pair of gloves and pulled them on as Matt weaved through traffic. Thanks to Matt’s lead foot, they made it to the call within five minutes. A record time even for them. Even as James was picking the radio up to alert dispatch they were on scene, alarms were going off in his head. Something didn’t seem right. While he could see a prone individual a hundred feet or so from them, there was an odd stillness in the air that just didn’t seem right. “How was this called in?” he asked Matt. “Just a man down. Nothing else,” Matt narrowed his eyes, obviously getting a hinky feeling, too. James looked over at the victim and blanched at how motionless they were. Odd vibe or not, he knew he couldn’t just sit around and do nothing. Getting out of the rig, he grabbed his trauma bag and started to run across the grass. Matt came around and joined him. “Is that blood on his chest?” Matt barked, his voice sharp with fear. “Yes, it is.” James took one look at the amount of gore on the man and knew they wouldn’t be 64

Running Hot able to help him. “Get on the radio to dispatch and ask them where the fuck PD is. This is a shooting.” They started to back up toward the rig, both of them frantically scanning the area for danger. Matt keyed the radio, “What’s the status of our PD backup?” The radio crackled to life, “Copy 304, there is no PD coming.” James and Matt exchanged horrified glances. “Someone fucked up big time,” James snarled. “Dispatch, this is a GSW and we need PD backup ASAP.” James saw the glint from the scope, but it was already too late. Calling out a warning, he reached for Matt just as the air cracked with the sound of gunfire. **** “Calvin, you need to come see this,” Janet cried as she ran up to the nurse’s station. Her face was devoid of all color and she was shaking so hard he worried about her passing out. “What’s going on?” he asked, alarmed. It took a lot to get her this worked up. In all the time he’d known her, he’d rarely seen her lose her cool and never to this extreme. “Something bad.” Grabbing his hand, she led him back to the staff break room. The television 65

Stephani Hecht was on and several nurses and doctors were standing around it, looks of horror on their faces. “What happened?” he stepped closer and saw a familiar looking office building that was a few miles from the hospital. “Some guy lost it and shot the place up. The news says there are at least five fatalities and dozens of wounded,” one of the nurses supplied. “Have they caught the shooter yet?” Calvin saw scores of emergency vehicles surrounding the building and wondered if James was there. He hoped not. The thought of his guy being so close to danger made his gut clench in fear. “No, he’s up at one of the top floor windows and shoots anyone who gets close.” “Calvin, there’s something you need to know. The gunman has the medics who first responded to the incident pinned down,” Janet said in a halting voice. Before Calvin could ask who it was, the screen on the TV changed to an aerial view. It showed a pair of men in the familiar blue uniforms from James’s company. They were hunched down behind a dumpster, trying their damndest to stay out of the line of fire. The shot zoomed in closer and the breath left Calvin’s lungs. “James,” he breathed as fear coursed through his body. There was no mistaking it though. He’d know that strong face and dark hair anywhere. Matt was 66

Running Hot with him and they were both pressed tight against the dumpster. Even as Calvin watched, he saw them flinch as bullets came their way. “How is this possible? They were just here,” Calvin protested. His knees felt weak and he grabbed the nearby wall for support. “They must have got the call just as they were leaving,” Janet said, her eyes bright with tears. The alarm sounded over the hospital loudspeaker, announcing a level one trauma was coming in. Even without being told, Calvin knew it must be somebody from the shooting. The other staff dispersed, getting ready for the incoming patients. Calvin felt torn. While he had the strong desire to stay and watch the TV, his oath wouldn’t allow him to stand around when people needed him. Giving the screen one last desperate glance, he ran out to the ER to help. It seemed liked they’d been at it for hours, yet wave after wave of patients continued to come in. They were everything from small cuts to full blown traumatic arrests. While they’d managed to save most of the patients, they did have two die from extensive blood loss and internal wounds. Every time an ambulance crew would come in, Calvin would ask about 304 and every time he got the same answer, We don’t know yet. 67

Stephani Hecht Calvin was just finishing up a set of sutures when he saw a pair of medics coming in. “Have you heard anything about James and Matt?” he called to them. “We heard one of them is shot and in pretty bad shape,” one of them, a husky female, replied. Calvin felt as if someone had smacked him in the gut with a brick. “Which one?” he asked, his voice cracking with terror. “Don’t know. I heard the police finally got the gunman. So whichever medic was shot should be coming in soon.” Calvin hoped so. Their ER was already stretched thin so they were diverting some of the patients to other nearby hospitals. He didn’t think he could last any longer to find out if James was okay. It seemed like forever before the bay doors swished open. A small group of firefighters and medics came rushing in with a cot. Calvin was both relieved and dismayed to see it was Matt. While he was glad it wasn’t James, he despaired when he saw just how bad Matt was. The man’s chest was a mess from what had to be at least three gunshot wounds and he wasn’t moving. Luckily, the surgeon and a couple of other doctors took charge of Matt’s care, so that left Calvin free to search for James. Just as he was giving up hope of seeing him, the doors swooshed 68

Running Hot open again and James came walking through. He had a small cut on his cheek and there was a bleak, hopeless look in his eyes, but damn it, he was alive and Calvin couldn’t have been more relieved. Running to him, Calvin threw his arms around James and pulled him into a rib-crushing hug. They had a huge audience, but he didn’t give a damn. All that mattered was James was safe and hadn’t been seriously hurt. “I thought I lost you,” Calvin told him. His heart broke when he felt how badly James was shaking. James wrapped his arms around his waist and embraced him back, as he tucked his head into Calvin’s chest. “I’m okay,” James assured. Calvin continued holding James, savoring the feeling of having his lover back safe in his arms. At that moment, Calvin knew he’d never be able to let go.

69

Stephani Hecht

Epilogue Four months later

J

ames sat at the table, fighting back a laugh as he watched Calvin rush around the kitchen, in a near frenzy he was so stressed. “Relax, babe,” he said. “It’s just a small dinner party. You would think we were having half of Flint with all the food you made.” Calvin pulled some rolls out of the oven before answering, “It’s a very big deal. Not only are we celebrating Matt being able to finally go back to work, but also that you’re moving in with me.” “You sure you don’t want to change your mind?” James asked, although he knew there was no way he could ever be parted with Calvin. Calvin came over and gave him a gentle kiss. “Are you kidding? I’ve never been happier.” “Does this mean you forgive me for inviting my parents?” James smiled when he saw a panicked look pass through Calvin’s eyes. 70

Running Hot “I still can’t believe you did that. What if they don’t like me?” “They’re going to love you. Lord knows I do.” James got up so he could wrap his arms around Calvin’s waist. “What did you just say?” Calvin asked, as he pulled back and locked gazes with James. “I said I love you.” “Wow, I didn’t think I was ever going to get you to say that out loud.” Calvin lips spread out into a huge grin. “Of course I do. Why do you think I agreed to move in with you?” James ducked his head, shocked to feel a warm heat come over his cheeks. “I figured as much, but it sounds so nice to hear you actually say it.” “How about if I say it again? I love you, Calvin.” James pulled him back into a tight embrace. “I love you, too, James, and I always will.”

71

About the Author Stephani Hecht is a happily married mother of two. You can usually find her snuggled up to her laptop, creating her next book. Visit Stephani on the web at: www.stephanihecht.com http://www.myspace.com/stephanihecht Email her at: [email protected]