Last Christmas, Francis had a promising acting career and a budding romance with Duncan. This Christmas, it seems he's lost it all. When his mum persuades him to help her with the annual village production, he's drawn back into the wacky world of amateur pantomime. This year's production has all kind of new twists, the village players are eccentric although enthusiastic, and Francis isn't sure he ever saw himself as a director. And what his mother also didn't tell him was, he'd be working with Duncan by his side. But if he can cope with charity shop costumes, squabbling characters, cross-dressing, and all the corny jokes, can he also believe in the show's magical triumph of Good over Bad, and win a second chance with Duncan? After all, in pantomime, everyone gets their wish granted in the end.

He's Behind You!

“I won’t go away again,” I sighed into Duncan’s mouth. His hand was down the open front of my jeans, and his palm was hot and damp around my dick. “I’m going to look at jobs around here, still making theatre, but helping others achieve it, not chasing around the country for bit parts that aren’t really doing it for me. I want to stay in the village, with you.”


I snorted. “Well, if Hollywood actually comes to call—”


“No, you stupid arse. I mean we won’t stay in the village for ever. I never wanted you to choose between your dreams and your home. You deserve those adventures you always talked about.”


That all seemed a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, with his hands on me now. “Home is good too. Seriously.” I’d realised that, back in the village, at home with Mum.


“Yeah. Why do you think I’m back from the rigs?” Duncan murmured into my hair. “Though it’s not particularly macho to admit I got homesick. But I mean we can have both if we work on it.”


Chapter 14