Really solid short story romance. Definitely enjoyed it.
Cade (H) is a firefighter, a man who lives his life to help people. He's open and brave and selfless, but he has one deep fear: the dentist. Too bad his attractive new neighbor - the first woman he's been truly interested in since his divorce - happens to be one. Heather (h) is starting over after her own painful marriage. When her abusive ex tracks her down to their small town, Cade steps up to protect her, but his hot temper scares her. Meanwhile, her whole profession scares him! Can these two find a way past their fears to start something new?
This was just a happy read. I loved the big, strong alpha male with an intense but rather ordinary fear (albeit, a very justified one!). Just makes him more human, more enjoyable. Their banter back and forth was a lot of fun, and Heather was very professional helping him face his fear. Even their argument was a solid, believable one - someone coming off an abusive relationship would certainly have fears of a hot temper.
The bet with the onions made me laugh. I'm the type to always cry with onions - I always have to get sweet onions, or I am a teary mess! He started with his little "just don't touch your eyes" spiel, and I wanted to yell out to Heather, "LIES! LIES!"
A few grammatical errors, word choices and commas - that sort of thing. Nothing too disctracting, but noticeable.
Alternating 3rd person POV. No cheating, no love triangle nonsense, no OW drama. There is some drama with Heather's ex, though that's more plot development than OM drama. Cute, fast, light escape, with enjoyable leads, a satisfying HEA, and no cliffhangers.
Would I read more from this author? Yes. This was a fun read, and I'd definitely be willing to read more.