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

“He doesn’t.”Wes led Nathan into the kitchen,which was nothing more than a narrow passageway with a fridge and sink on one side,stove and cabinets on the other.Opening one of the cabinets,Wes shoved the paper into a trashcan out of sight.“But he stayed the night.He wanted to and I couldn’t really say no.”


“Why not?”Nathan asked before he could stop himself.“You two didn’t—no,don’t tell me.I don’t want to know.He isyour boyfriend,after all.”


“I didn’t sleep with him,if that’s what you’re asking.”Wes looked at him,the pain in his eyes so bright that Nathan took him into his arms without realizing it.Resting his head on Nathan’s shoulder,Wes picked at the collar of Nathan’s shirt and whispered,“I slept on the couch.I didn’t…I didn’t even want to leave Tom’s last night.”Nathan rubbed his hands along Wes’s back in a soothing gesture.“We haven’t had sex since last weekend.That’s one reason he’s mad at me right now.He thinks I’m holding out.”


Chapter 24