Because You Love Me by Jerry Cole

Hunter Madison is back in Winter Ridge to recuperate and prepare for his mother’s passing. He spends his days making sure the final arrangements she has planned are ready to be carried out and trying to keep from falling apart at the seams.

Then, there’s his need to avoid his best friend, Dr. Gavin Carter, the town’s vet. He’s always had feelings for Gavin that he can’t act upon because Gavin is straight. Yet, he can’t escape them now that he’s back. When his mother dies, Gavin is there for him to lean on in a way that Hunter never thought he could be. Feelings of guilt and shame war with love and desire, especially when it seems that Gavin wants more.

It’s been five years since Dr. Gavin Carter’s wife Lisa died. His veterinary practice has managed to keep him so busy that he barely has time to dwell on how lonely he is. No one else has caught his eye at forty-one. Not until his best friend, concert cellist Hunter Madison, comes home.

Suddenly, Gavin is feeling things he never has before for any man. However, Hunter is dealing with his own issues and Gavin doesn’t wish to add to them by forcing his unwanted attentions on a man who, before, had never shown any interest in him beyond friendship.

When Gavin’s feelings only intensify, how can he make Hunter want a future with him? And what will Gavin do when the time comes for him to go back on tour? Will he break both their hearts when he leaves again?