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

Craig swallowed.“I’m a growing boy.”


That seemed to please Sam.Luke knew his friend partially judged a person by how much food he could cram into them before they left.Luke’s diet had been a bone of contention between them for years.


“Don’t suppose I could interest you in any more?”he said to Luke,who shook his head.


“I’m surprised he had any,”Donnie said,putting down his spoon.


“I don’t need to watch my weight as much now that I’m retired.But,”Luke held up a hand to forestall Sam,“I still want to eat healthily.Even if Andy tries to feed me pork at every meal.”


This led to a discussion between Andy and Sam about their favourite pork recipes.The others,feeling somewhat surplus to requirements,took their plates and bowls into the kitchen,where Donnie began to stack the dishwasher.


“I wish mum would get one of these,”Craig said.


“They’re a marvel.And with all the pots and pans Sam uses when he cooks,it’s bloody essential.”


Chapter 36