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

“Like you weren’t eighteen ever in your life,” Tim said and rubbed his eyes.


“That fact notwithstanding, my parents had the right to gripe me about it, as do yours. Now get up or you’re going to be late!”


Tim smiled at the thought of the previous night. His feet burned as he stood on the cold tiles until it found the familiar slump of his slippers. He shuffled his tired legs off to his bathroom and continued to smile. When he’d reached only half of his ice cream he had been shivering so violently that Tom took pity on him and finished both their sundaes, cradling Tim in the corner of his neck.


Chapter 16