Well-known artist Ellis Williams is in a slump and feeling all his fifty-three years. He's lost the joy which used to permeate his painting and despairs of ever regaining it. It doesn't help when he runs into a young man who comes on to him to win a bet, thus destroying more of Ellis's confidence.<br><br>Then, at a party, Ellis meets Martin Lovell, a man his age whose partner died soon after they adopted their son. Will these two middle-aged men learn they should never let go of hope? Or is it too late for men their age to open themselves to the possibility of love and being loved?

Never Let Go of Hope

“When can I expect another painting?” Randall asked.


“When I’m damned good and ready and not before,” Ellis replied, running a hand through his graying black hair. He tried to hide his frustration, knowing Randall wouldn’t like the true answer, which was ‘Maybe never’. By acting pissed he hoped to deflect any more questions on the subject.


“Ellis, come on. People are clamoring for something. Anything.”


“The crap I’ve given you in the last year or so?” Ellis said scathingly.


“It’s not crap. It’s not your best work I’ll agree, but it’s still better than…” Randall looked around the gallery and pointed. “Than that.”


Ellis almost laughed. The picture was so totally opposite his style there was no way to compare it to anything of his. “I suppose,” he admitted. “Still…”


“Ellis, please, I’m begging you. Bring me something.”


Chapter 3