Once the star of his high school basketball team, Nathan Gayle has played the field for years. Now in his twenties, he's getting tired of one night stands and heated hook-ups with strangers; he wants something more. Was that asking too much?<br><br>Wes Roberts has had a fierce crush on Nathan since high school. A chance encounter at prom created a memory Wes still cherishes, one perfect moment in time. His current relationship with Roger pales in comparison, but he's been with the man for eight months now and they've settled into a routine that's not exactly comfortable.<br><br>When Wes and Nathan meet up again years later at a friend's party, the spark between them is rekindled. But there's Roger, who wrestles with anger and drinking problems. Roger, whom Wes is still dating. Though the choice between the two men seems obvious, breaking up with Roger may be easier said than done.

Crushed

After all Wes’s anxious worrying,Nathan almost expected to run into Roger on the stairs—or maybe waiting for them inside Wes’s apartment,loaded and dangerous,ready to explode when they walked in the door.You’re letting his fear get to you,Nathan told himself as Wes unlocked the door to his apartment.You can’t do that.He’s scared enough for both of you,so you have to be strong for him.


Still,he held his breath as they pushed their way into Wes’s place,and he almost cried out when a little cocker spaniel barked up at him.


“Hush,girl,”Wes admonished,closing the door behind them.Nathan heard him lock it,as well.The dog didn’t listen—she sniffed at Nathan’s ankles and barked again,louder this time.


“Hey girl,”Nathan said,sinking to his knees.He held out one hand and smiled as the dog’s wet nose tickled along his palm.With his other hand he began to stroke the glossy hair behind her ears.“What’s your name?”


“What?”Nathan laughed.“You named the dog—”


Chapter 23