Wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan and suffering post traumatic stress as a result, Andy Johnson is given a medical discharge from the British army. Shunning attention, Andy lives a quiet and lonely existence on his pig farm in Yorkshire. His peace is threatened when his friends take him to the city for his birthday. They buy him a kiss from Luke Wales, a twink porn star. Overwhelmed and needing some air, Andy escapes outside. Luke finds him there. They talk and Andy begins to relax. It’s cold and Andy gives Luke his combat jacket. However Roger, Luke’s boyfriend appears and the momentary connection is lost. Weeks later, recently separated from Roger, Luke is back in the north of England. He decides to pay Andy a visit, using the excuse of returning the man’s jacket. A snow storm forces the two men to spend time together, and a tentative friendship begins. Neither man is convinced they are worthy of the other. It takes time, plus the encouragement of friends and Andy’s teenage nephew, Craig, to convince the reluctant couple that what exists on the surface only tells part of the story. Andy’s scars and Luke’s past employment shouldn’t stand in the way of them exploring what each feels for the other.

Surface Tension

“I love you,Andy.I needed to show you how much.”


“Thanks.Uh.You’re all right?Your ribs,they’re not hurting?”


At Andy’s concern,Luke fell that bit more deeply in love.Andy’s first thoughts had been of his partner,even though Luke knew his brain must still be melted.


“I’m fine.”Luke felt his ribs protest as he got to his feet.


Andy stood,none too steadily.“God,Luke.You’re…you’re—”Andy pulled Luke into his arms and hugged him.


Luke’s ribs might have been protesting,but he’d be damned if he’d tell Andy to loosen his hold.Andy gave the best hugs.


Andy kissed the top of Luke’s head.“But,uh,you.Let me take care of your problem.”Andy pressed his hand to the swelling in Luke’s jeans.


Luke kissed him.“No,love,that was just for you;I don’t need you to return the favour.It’s not that I don’t want you to—it’s just Craig will be sending out a search party.”He reluctantly disengaged from Andy and began to straighten up his man’s clothing.


Chapter 34