When his boss’s twenty-year-old son announced he wanted to be more than friends, Tim Kammerling told him no. He wasn’t ready to have a relationship with someone more than ten years younger than him. Devin knew he couldn’t stick around Napa and honor the status quo, however. He left town, and the two became long distance friends instead.<br><br>A lot can happen in eighteen years. Letters are sent. Calls get made.<br><br>Lives are changed.

Wild Fragile Vines

“Don’t let Dad find out Dick’s still matchmaking. It’s bad enough you had to bring your boyfriend and rub his nose in it.” He glanced at his watch. “Damn it, we were supposed to get to cake ten minutes ago.” With a frown, he leveled a warning finger at Devin. “No impromptu concerts when we sing ‘Happy Birthday’ this year.”


As soon as Pat rushed off, Tim sighed. “Sorry about that.” His privacy about his nonexistent personal life worked for the slightly homophobic Mr. Mayer, but Pat wasn’t quite as careful about keeping personal opinions, especially those of others, to himself.


Devin’s brows shot up. “What are you apologizing for? He’s my brother. I’m the one who should be embarrassed he’s related to such an asshole.”


“He’s not an asshole. He’s just…” But the right word escaped him, and he was left floundering for a description that wouldn’t offend.


Chapter 6