Scene designer Charlie Cox is in a clandestine relationship with the theater's lead actor, Ricky Moore. Charlie knows it will never be more than that because Ricky is too egotistical to want to be seen in public with a man who has deep burn scars on one arm. Not that Charlie blames him, since he's certain he’s a freak in almost everyone's eyes. Jace Parish, the scene shop boss, is in love with Charlie but will never let him know. Jace thinks he’s uninteresting because he’s thirty and starting to bald, which makes him look middle-aged. He also has never admitted to anyone he works with that he’s gay. Liam Dolan owns the gym where Jace comes to work out his anger and frustration. Liam has been drawn to Jace from the beginning but believes Jace is straight, so has never revealed his feelings to Jace. Ricky Moore knows he is using Charlie for his own selfish ends. What Ricky can't figure out is why, when he can and does have anyone he wants in his bed, he keeps coming back to Charlie. These four men have preconceived ideas about themselves and each other. What will it take for them to realize love is possible, if they will only give it a chance?

Hell, Look at Me

Reluctantly he took it, letting her lead the way to the dance floor. At least this will take my mind off Charlie.


The music was fast and loud, Merianne was a good dancer, and soon enough Jace was smiling for real.


“So what had you in such a funk?” Merianne asked when a slow song came over the speakers and they could talk without shouting.


He shrugged. “Not really a funk. Just…”


“I saw you watching Ricky. Don’t tell me you’re jealous.”


Jace snorted. “Of that ass? Not in this lifetime. I feel sorry for all those girls. Each one hoping he’ll pick one of them for the night.”


“Yeah, I saw him whispering something to her that made her blush. No guarantee he won’t change his mind in ten minutes when another one catches his fancy.”


“Or some guy,” she whispered, glancing around.


“True that. He’s an equal opportunity fucker.” Jace chuckled dryly. “Maybe he’ll take one of each home to his super king-sized bed.”


Chapter 3