The fourth and final Colin and Martin Christmas story sees the two men leaving Yorkshire to begin new lives in Australia. Martin Kellam has no qualms about saying goodbye to what remains of his family, while Colin’s parting gift to Martin’s brother is a well-deserved punch in the nose. Before leaving, the two men have one final Christmas in London with Colin’s parents, who are pulling out all the stops to make it an occasion to remember. Martin enjoys teasing his husband. He knows Colin can never resist going in search of presents before Christmas Day. As this is their last winter Christmas, Martin boxes up a lump of coal and puts it somewhere where Colin will find it. The festivities are brought to an abrupt halt when Colin’s mother reveals disturbing news that throws Colin and Martin’s emigration plans into turmoil. Despite Martin’s much-needed comfort and reassurance, Colin is torn between family obligation and the future he and Martin have longed for. Can Martin show him that he can have both?

Colin and Martin's Goodbye Christmas

Martin cupped Colin’s face. “I didn’t mean it. Not like that.”


Colin’s arms came around Martin and pulled him close. Nuzzling his neck, Colin whispered, “I know.”


They spent a couple of moments of silent communication, Martin listening to Colin’s slow, steady breaths, his own more rapid and uneven. Unconsciously, Martin began to run his fingers through Colin’s shoulder-length hair. He loved Colin’s long hair. It was silky, smooth, straight, and just so soft. Martin knew factually the hair was brown, as were Colin’s eyes, but as he’d been born blind, the colour meant nothing to him.


Chapter 4