Title: Husky and Heartfelt
Series: Big Boys of Gilroy, Book Two
Author: Jole Cannon
Publisher: NineStar Press
Release Date: 10/07/2025
Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex
Pairing: Male/Male
Length: 75100
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, family-drama, gay, bear, teacher, second chance, coming out
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Description
Loneliness has taken its toll on Sean’s life. He once loved Hugo but let him go after college. After twelve years, he misses what they had, but dating a man could end his career as a high school gym teacher and varsity football coach. Staying in the closet has become a shield for him, one that is cracking.
Openly gay music teacher, Hugo, puts on a happy persona to his students and colleagues. He’s tried dating, but they always want what he isn’t: a masculine, well-toned man. Outside, everyone he knows says he’ll find the right guy, and he needs to be patient with himself. Inside, there is a hole in his heart no one can fill except for Sean.
When Sean finally talks to Hugo after avoiding him for years out of fear of being outed, a friendship sparks. Can this spark be enough to reignite the passion they had in college before Sean broke Hugo’s heart, or will it dwindle into nothing?
Husky and Heartfelt
Jole Cannon © 2025
All Rights Reserved
He wished Sean had stayed in contact. For the first time in six years, Sean had reached out. What changed? Why talk to him now?
He sighed and stood up. There was too much to do. He didn’t have time to dwell on what-ifs.
Before he could move anything, there was a knock at the door.
“Good morning, Mr. Janssen,” a voice called out.
Hugo plastered a smile on his face before turning around to face Matthew Kirkpatrick.
“Good morning, Matthew. To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“I assume you received the notice from the board of education regarding the direction the school will go with the music department soon.”
Hugo placed his hands behind his back and clenched his fists. He maintained his smile, a skill he’d learned as a child. Be polite, be kind, and don’t let them know how much they’ve upset you.
“I did,” he said.
“I believe the board will vote on this on the eighteenth. I think they want a decision before the end of the school year.”
“Why now, sir? The music department is an integral part of the school. We help with school spirit, morale, and keep students engaged.”
“We need funds allotted to more academic areas. I am sure you understand. Either way, I know they shall make the right choice.”
The right choice? You pushed for this, just like you pushed to remove the theater program. You’re nothing more than a vindictive old man.
“Is there anything else you need to tell me?”
“Yes, after looking at the budget, you cannot afford the spring band trip this year. I am sorry.”
“The students look forward to that trip. They compete and have a wonderful time,” Hugo said.
“I am sorry, but we needed to shift the budget to give money to the football team for new uniforms, gear, and things they need to be successful. Maybe you can start fundraising for a trip next year if you have enough classes.”
“This is outrageous. I’m losing everything here, and for what? Why is this happening?”
“I suggest you be careful what you say, Mr. Janssen. We are doing what is best for the students. It is nothing personal.” Kirkpatrick glared at Hugo.
Hugo bit his tongue. He couldn’t afford to get into an altercation with the principal. He couldn’t be fired for disagreeing, but the board could use it against him at the board meeting. The man had no shame.
“I’m sorry, I’m just emotional. I’ll figure something out for a trip. Maybe we can fundraise for a small day trip to San Francisco or Sacramento.”
“Those would be great choices.” Kirkpatrick smirked. “Do you have any further questions?”
“Do you have the conference details?”
“Ah, yes. It will be from February twenty-fifth to the twenty-eighth. You will arrive on Wednesday. Registration and the welcome ceremony will be on Thursday.”
“Wait, we’re leaving Wednesday? I thought we’d leave on Thursday. The students have a concert planned for Wednesday night.”
“It is an extensive training session. We need you there to be ready for registration early Thursday morning. I am sure missing one performance will not hinder them. Unless you do not wish to go?” Kirkpatrick raised an eyebrow and stared at Hugo. His eyes burrowed into him, daring Hugo to defy him.
“No, I’m sure they’ll be okay. Maybe I can get a music sub who can cover it.”
“If you wish. Have a wonderful day and weekend.”
“Thank you. See you Monday.” He waved as Kilpatrick left the room.
You absolute monster. I’m not letting you destroy what I’ve built without a fight. You can bet on that.
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Jole Cannon is a high school math and math programming teacher. When he’s not shaping the mathematical minds of tomorrow, he’s playing video games with his partner, watching television, doing math for fun, and working on his master’s in history.
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