What happens when an out-and-proud bear moves to a small Tennessee town and takes a shine to the closeted cop? Fireworks, that's what. When Del Walters agrees to go into business with his brother, he has one condition. Since he's putting up the lion's share, they'll run the bike shop his way—and that means he gets to choose the name. And in a small Tennessee town, a business called Rainbow Racers, complete with a not-so-subtle sign, was always going to attract attention. Unfortunately, it's the wrong kind of attention, and after a few incidents, Del is forced to call on the local police to deal with the culprits. When Officer Taylor Cox walks into his shop, Del thinks Christmas has come early. An earlier encounter with the younger man left Del with a growing desire to know more about him. There's only one problem—Taylor is in the closet, and there's no way Del is going back into his. When Taylor lays eyes on the sexy bear who owns the bike shop, he knows he's walking into trouble. Not that he's about to let Del know he's interested: his view from the closet is just fine, thank you very much, and besides, that ship has already sailed, thanks to their first meeting. Now all he wants to do is forget Del even exists. But as time goes by, Taylor realizes how badly he is torn between protecting the persona he's created, and giving in to his desires. And Del making it obvious that he wants Taylor isn't helping matters. Between an out-and-proud bear and a firmly closeted cop, something has to give. Problem is, it might be their hearts. Pride & Protection is a slow-burn, low angst, age gap, friends to lovers romance containing an out and proud bear from California and a deeply closeted cop. An engaging mix of tenderness and heat. Taylor gets to come out, and Del gets to indulge his fantasy that includes a hot guy in uniform and handcuffs.