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

“I’ve been so busy today I haven’t had time to exercise it since I got here.”


“Then go do it. Damn.” Jace shook his head.


“Going…Dad.” Charlie turned to leave, stopped, and said, “Thanks for asking, and for caring.”


Jace winced at the ‘Dad’ then quickly covered it with a smile. “That’s what us father figures do.”


“No,” Charlie told him, “that’s what friends do. And I was out of line with the dad thing. Sorry.”


“Not a problem. Now go before I have to lecture you about taking care of yourself.”


“Going.” Charlie grinned and took off for his office.


I guess I know how he sees me. Jace sighed. No, Merianne, I am not going to say anything to him about my feelings. Getting shot down is not my favorite thing. Now, or ever.


Boy did Merianne hit the nail on the head about Ricky. Charlie bent and stretched his scarred arm reflexively. If I’m agreeing with her…Yeah, maybe it istime to break things off. I’d be better off if I did, but can I?


Chapter 8