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

While Jive played, Ellis and Janice ate the thick sandwiches she’d prepared. “This reminds me of when my husband and I used to go picnicking out at Bayou Sauvage. Billy loved watching the wildlife of course, since he was a biologist. And I loved watching him getting such pleasure out of what, in reality, was his day-to-day life.” She sighed. “I still miss him, even though it’s been five years since he died.”


Chapter 21