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

“That’s an excellent idea,” Martin said, holding up his glass. “Mine’s empty too, so let’s all go get refills.”


Bethany huffed, but obviously knew she’d been out maneuvered, although it was apparent she wasn’t about to give up just yet. Linking her arm with Ellis’s, she led the way back to the bar. Sara, with the impeccable timing of a good hostess, arrived seconds later, saying, “Bethany, would you be a sweetheart and come help me bring out more hors d’oeuvres? Bernard seems to be MIA at the moment.”


“I…sure,” Bethany replied, reluctantly following Sara into the kitchen.


“Saved by the belle, spelled with an ‘e’,” Martin commented, shaking his head in amusement as he made himself a fresh drink and opened a bottle of beer for Ellis.


“Hopefully, while they’re in there, Sara will set Bethany straight,” Ellis muttered.


Martin grinned. “And tell her you’re not?”


Cocking an eyebrow, Ellis asked, “Are you always this upbeat?”


Chapter 10