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

He started across the back patio to the veranda when, without any warning, a wave of dizziness washed over him. With nothing to grab on to, he stumbled and fell. He was vaguely aware of a sharp pain in his wrist when he landed. Then Janice was hovering over him, trying to help him to his feet.


“I’m all right,” Ellis muttered, standing with her assistance.


“No, you are not!” she said in reply. “Ellis…These dizzy spells are not even close to all right.”


“Just heat and tension,” he protested, wincing when he tried to move his right hand. “I think…”


“No, you’re notthinking. You’re avoiding.” Then she realized what he meant when he held out his arm. His wrist was already beginning to swell. “Inside, now,” she ordered.


Chapter 17