Eighteen year-old Aaron Pickard is dealing with a lot: he’s falling for his straight best friend, his mother has ended up in the hospital after a violent assault by his father, and he’s trying to decide when to come out. Tack on the stress of an upcoming prom and graduation, a part-time job, and the possibility he could lose his best friend, and he’s an emotional wreck.<br><br>Aaron’s best friend Jeff Leaton provides a soft place for him to fall when his life is thrown into chaos, literally holding him each night as they fall asleep. As Jeff helps Aaron navigate through the mess that has become his new normal, Aaron’s feelings for Jeff intensify.<br><br>Aaron’s pretty sure it’s all going to end badly, but he’s holding on to hope.

Holding On

“First of all,please accept my condolences,”she said to my grandparents.


“Thank you,”Grandma said.“And as I told you on the phone,thank you so much for taking in Aaron.”


Mrs.Leaton smiled.“He’s been part of our family for years.From the very first time Jeff brought him home.It’s been a pleasure.And I know this is a tough time,but I wanted to make it clear he is welcome to stay and finish out school and graduate here,and even stay after that.”She turned her attention to Jeff and me.“I was thinking we could convert my home office to a bedroom for Aaron,if that would work.That way you guys aren’t cramped in one room.”


I didn’t like that idea at all.Apparently Jeff didn’t either.


“But it’s kind of like camping,Mom,”Jeff explained.“We don’t mind sharing.”


“Nonsense.Finals are coming and you need your own space to study.”Her tone brooked no argument and we looked at each other,defeated.


Chapter 45