Sixteen year old Jacob Smithson has quite a temper. He’s picked on by other kids because he likes boys, and recent fighting has kicked him out of public school. As a last resort, his parents have placed him in the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Boarding School for Boys.<br><br>It’s at his first mass at St. Thomas where he sees Avery Dendritch, a senior who serves as altar boy during the service. When they meet, the attraction between them is hard to deny. The two become fast friends, and as the school year progresses, their friendship deepens into something more. For the first time, Jacob has found a place where he belongs ... and someone with whom he’s falling in love.<br><br>But the other students gossip about their growing relationship, and while Avery can ignore them, Jacob cannot. As the rumors and slurs start up again, can he curb his temper, or will his penchant for fighting get him expelled from St. Thomas, as well?

Without Sin

“Jacob.” Johnny tugs on Jacob’s arm until his hand falls from Avery’s waist. “It’s time to go. Mommy’s calling us.”


With a grin, Jacob says, “I don’t hear her.” He winks at Avery.


“I do.” Johnny pries Avery’s fingers off Jacob’s wrist. “She says hurry up. Come on.”


“I think someone’s jealous,” Avery says. When he ruffles Johnny’s hair, the little boy glares up at him, frowning.


“I think someone has to mind his own business.” Jacob covers Johnny’s eyes with one hand. As his brother tries to pry his hand away, he kisses Avery. His lips are sweet, tender.


The kiss makes Avery ache for another. Before Jacob can pull away, Avery catches his chin in his hand and claims another kiss. “It should be all right,” Jacob whispers. “At least I have three days, you know? At least I don’t have to go home tonight.”


Chapter 68