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

“Yes!” Liam cried out, his orgasm following seconds later. He collapsed against Jace, pressing him against the wall, and they slowly slid down to the tub floor in a tangle of arms and legs. “Hardly graceful,” Liam muttered when he regained his breath.


“Or comfortable,” Jace replied with a small grin, turning enough to kiss Liam.


“The water’s cold,” Liam grumbled once he returned the kiss. He got up, helped Jace stand, and shut off the shower.


“We might want to dry off first,” Jace suggested with a laugh.


They did, and then walked down to Jace’s bedroom. Liam embraced Jace before falling back on to the bed, taking his lover with him.


“Now that was what I would call a pretty spectacular first time,” Liam said after gently but thoroughly kissing Jace.


“Definitely different,” Jace replied.


“Nope. Or at least—” Jace blushed.


Chapter 40