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

Andy knew it was better to give in now,rather than prolong the agony.Luke would win out in the end,as he always did.“Jesus.Don’t I have a say in anything any more?”


Luke took his hand.“If it bothers you that much,then he can stay here.I’d never undermine you,especially where Craig is concerned.That’s why I didn’t say anything when he was in theroom.”


“You said if he dressed right.But what could he wear?He didn’t pack a lot.”


“His low cut jeans will be all right.I’ll lend him one of my bigger T-shirts.”


“Exactly.He’ll need a tight T-shirt and—”Luke flapped his hands,looking every bit the stereotypical gay clothes designer.“You’ll see what else I have in mind.”


Craig miraculously transformed from sullen teenager into a bundle of energy within the blink of an eye on hearing the change of plans.


Chapter 40