When cowboy Gage Wellton visits boyhood friend, Corey Cassidy, for a fun-filled weekend in New York City, Corey's life is turned upside down. The two have the time of their lives in the big city. As memories of their childhoods unfold, dancing, drinking, and a night of heavy sex ensue.<br><br>Gage soon finds himself smitten, which he didn't expect. It's too late for romance though, since Gage has to head back to his ranch, ending the weekend of fun and good memories. Corey asks him to stay, but Gage has obligations in Kansas and decides to return home, leaving Corey and the city behind.<br><br>Once back home, Gage struggles without Corey at his side. Then a rodeo accident sends Gage to the hospital and Corey shows up to visit. Corey becomes medicine for Gage. During his visit, the two become intimate again. But it's hard for a closeted, gay cowboy to survive in a straight man's world. Will love be enough to make one man change his entire life for another?

The Weekender

“You get some sleep now. Rest will do you lots of good.”


Again, I listen. I settle my head into the pillows, crash and burn into sleep, at peace. I become distant, in a state of repair.


All my brothers visit me. Their wives show up at the hospital, too. A few nieces and nephews visit me. Father MacDonald from our Baptist Church arrives with prayers. My staff from the ranch visits, bringing a basket of dried beef. The room floods with get well cards, flowers, fruit baskets, and balloons.


On my fifth day to a full recovery, the bandages are removed from my head. Afterwards, Chloe Fitzgerald arrives for a short visit. She walks into my room with a massive stuffed Appaloosa horse. The horse is placed on a chair after I give it a hug. Then, Chloe demands a hug from me. In doing so, she kisses my forehead. Following our brief connection, she brings me up to date on all of Hiding’s new gossip, the weather, and other light topics.


Chapter 19