From the age of three, Tim Bailey wanted to marry Tom Watkins. Many changes occurred during their formative years, but Tim’s love for Tom remained rock solid. Even when Tom temporarily broke up with him to date girls, Tim never stopped loving Tom. Because his father walking out on his family, Tim doesn’t trust easily. His friend Tom’s bisexuality makes him uneasy. Tom is a popular high school football player who can have anyone he wants, boy or girl. So why would he choose nerdy Tim? The fact Tom won’t come out at school further feeds Tim’s insecurities and suspicions. Tom has always felt the pressure from his dad and his friends to be the typical jock. This means hiding the gay side of his bisexuality and only acknowledging Tim in private. Tom has promised once they’re at college in New York, he and Tim will be able to live openly as a loving gay couple. Tim just needs to be patient. Things come to a dramatic head at an event everyone has been waiting for, their end of year graduation party. Many truths are revealed, old scores are settled, and everyone’s lives are changed. Can Tom keep his promise to always love and protect Tim, or will previous lies and secrets kill off what has been growing between the boys for fifteen years?

What We've Been Waiting For

“You don’t need to say anything, Timothy. My sister has a boy who is like a son to me. Let’s just say you and Tom share a lot in common with Sean,” Bill said, smiling and looking at Tim knowingly. Tim relaxed at knowing he wouldn’t be the reason why things couldn’t possibly work out between Bill and his mom.


“You know, you are kind of alright, Bill.”


Laughing a beautiful belly laugh, Bill smiled again and said, “I’m glad you approve.”


Taking on a serious tone, Tim said, “Treat her right, and we won’t ever have a problem.”


“No worries then,” Tim said with a smile as Tom poked his head back into the room.


“You gonna ditch me with washing up duty, Bailey?” Tom asked indignantly. Smiling one last time at Bill, Tim made his way past him to the kitchen.


“What is going on in here?” Eileen said. “We can hear you all the way in there. It looks like a car wash!” she said as she took in all the suds on the floor.


Chapter 7