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

Avril picked up the bowl of grated apple. “Thanks. I’ll just add a bit of lemon juice and I’ll make up the pies later.” 


“I promise I’ll look after Colin,” Martin said. Privately he knew most of the looking after would be done by Colin to him.


“I know.” Avril’s voice was quiet.


She squeezed back. “It’s such a long way.” After a sigh, she added, “But it’s a fantastic opportunity for the two of you.”


Martin nodded. She’d said that a number of times, he wondered if she truly believed it. “And the weather’s better.”


Avril sighed and didn’t let go of Martin’s hand. He sensed she had more to say, so put his other hand on top of hers.


“If you’re ahead of schedule, why don’t you sit down for a minute?”


There was another sigh, but Avril took the chair next to Martin, who just waited.


“I went for a routine mammogram last month. They…” She cleared her throat. “They found something.”


“Oh, Avril.” Martin’s hands tightened over hers.


Chapter 7