Stephen’s lover Emmett accuses him of being boring and way too predictable. To prove him wrong, Stephen plans a surprise romantic getaway to a cabin on the river. But Emmett has plans of his own for romance -- ones that don’t include Stephen anymore. Depressed at yet another break-up, Stephen wonders if it isn’t time to give up hope. But finding that elusive man he longs for -- the one willing to risk everything to be with him -- would take a miracle. So Stephen travels alone to the cabin in search of a new perspective. Resolving to be more adventurous, he tries kayaking for the first time in his life. It’s great until he dozes off and wakes in the middle of a raging flood. Terrified, he fights for his life, nearly losing his battle with the river. On the edge of surrender, he’s rescued by an unusual stranger who might not really exist. Nothing makes any sense after that. Mystical explanations seem no less likely than rational ones. But does it matter? Because if Stephen wants an adventure, taking one last chance on love might turn out to be the best one of all.

A Pebble in the Water

But despite Stephen’s misgivings, Cal just removed the damp towel and tucked him into a wonderfully comfortable queen-sized bed that took up most of the room. The man retrieved a down comforter from the closet and draped it over Stephen, enclosing him in a fluffy cocoon.


Cal sat down on the edge of the bed and reached over to brush a lock of Stephen’s damp hair back into place. “You sleep as long as you want. I’ll be here when you wake up.”


Stephen sighed. God, it was so nice to be taken care of for a change. He wanted to thank Cal again for everything, but sleep was enfolding him too fast. He struggled against it long enough to feel soft, cool lips gently brush his. So Cal had claimed a kiss after all. Stephen smiled and let himself slide into darkness. 5


Stephen gradually came awake to the gentle sounds of birdsong and the rich fragrance of brewing coffee. Keeping his eyes closed, he snuggled under the thick comforter and thrilled to the joy of just being alive.


Chapter 10