Jonathon Carver, a young Puritan school teacher, meets handsome Nathaniel Morgan, master cooper. He comes to recognize the longings he's had all his life as desire for the love of another man, and Nathaniel provides that love.<br><br>Their love must be carefully guarded, as they live in Colonial America during a time of the call to Awakening of the Puritan spirit. Knowing the penalty for their love is dire, they strive to keep their affair secret.<br><br>Desperate for a way to resolve their situation, they devise a bold plan which could free them to be together. But can their love for one another overcome the structure of the society in which they live? Or will they be destined to forego fulfillment of their desire and go their separate ways?

Awakening

Jonathan descended the ladder and went into the classroom. His heart stopped and relief flooded his body. “Robert!” What are you do…”


Panting from running, Robert coughed out, “Samuel, he will be here any minute. He came to the cooperage looking for Nathaniel. Thomas told him he was here. I ran all the way. He cannot be far behind.”


“Quickly, go up to the loft,” Jonathan commanded, “and be silent. He will know something is amiss if he finds you here.”


Just as he disappeared up the ladder, the front door burst open and Samuel strode into the room.


“Brother, what brings you to the school so late on Sabbath Eve?” Jonathan said, trying to sound surprised and casual.


Samuel, looking both furious and disappointed, said, “Where is he? The loft?”


Chapter 42