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

After the movie,as the guys got ready to leave,Jon pulled me into the hall.Before I knew it,he pressed me against the wall and braced his hands on either side of my head.He leaned in so close,I felt his breath,and licked my lips out of nervousness.


“I can’t quit thinking about you,Aaron,”he whispered as one of his hands played with my hair.“I know I once told you I wouldn’t go after a guy that likes someone else,but you’re so sexy and cute and sweet and I can’t wait to take you to the prom.I want to make you forget about that other guy.”


“You think I’m sexy?”I asked,surprised.


He chuckled.“Fuck,yes.”He pulled his hand from my hair and cupped my cheek.He leaned in and I closed my eyes,my heart pounding.His lips brushed mine.I didn’t see fireworks,but I shivered.


I opened my eyes to find him smiling at me.“So cute.”


I waved him off.“Thanks for all the help today.”


Chapter 51