Chapter 11

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Tom sat staring into space as his boyfriend was talking to him about Bill. He was to join their parents on their weekend trip to the mountains. Bill had been married for eighteen years when his wife passed away from cancer, leaving behind him and their eleven-year-old daughter, Carla. That was seven years ago. Bill never remarried. He concentrated all his attention on his daughter and his career. This was his first attempt at the dating game since his wife’s untimely death. All in all he seemed a decent bloke.

“I’m glad you’ve taken a liking to him. Sounds like your mom has, too.”

“She deserves every happiness,” Tim said.

Tom seemed to consider this for a moment and then his eyes widened.

“Hold up! What’d you say Bill’s last name was?”

“I didn’t,” Tim said confused. “I don’t even know.”

“And his daughter’s name?”

“Carla.”

Tom’s smile made Tim suspicious.

“What’s up?” Tim asked after studying his boyfriend for a moment.