When Edward inherits the family textile mill from his deceased parents, he knows where his duty lies. As a young Victorian gentleman, he devotes himself to the family business and doing right by his customers and employees. What concern is it that he surrenders his own artistic ambitions and romantic passions?<br><br>But a hideous accident at the mill one day brings him into close contact with Mori, one of his most productive workers, a beautiful yet seemingly delicate and vulnerable young man. Edward takes Mori under his protection, bringing him back to his house. At last, Edward has found a friend and companion. His fascination for Mori grows swiftly into love, and he’s drawn out of his quiet introspection into a world of delight and passion.<br><br>Yet Mori has a private task that both baffles and concerns Edward: the completion of a stunningly beautiful, abstract tapestry. Edward doesn’t understand its significance, Mori’s devotion to it, or Mori’s strange behaviour when Edward tries to part the man from his mission. Mori loves him in return, he’s sure – but can that ever be enough? As Edward is tangled more deeply and irretrievably into the web of Mori’s love and mystery, what bittersweet price might he have to pay?

Threadbare

I pulled him to me to kiss him.I didn’t understand him at times like this.“But you have.You’ve wanted me in return.Come back to bed and please me.”


“They chose me as the best one,”he sighed into my mouth,softening against me and clasping his cool hands behind my neck.“That’s what I must be.I must still do my duty.”


His thick little tongue flickered in my mouth,seeking my hunger alongside his own.I didn’t know if he meant his words for me,or for his damned tapestry.But his saliva was sticky,and it tasted so very,very sweet.


When I took him back into my bed and he wrapped his limbs around me so ardently,I knew I could call it making love.


Chapter 6