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

“Yes, as a matter of fact, you did,” Tim said.


“What the hell is your problem, Bailey?” James said.


“You are,” he said. He tried to put as much exasperation into his reply as possible.


“What the hell did I ever do to you?” James said. James seemed genuinely baffled by the distaste he had for him.


“You want to go there now?” he said.


“Now’s as good a time as ever,” James said.


“I really don’t like the way you’ve treated Charles over the years. Sure, we all have problems with self-acceptance and coming out,” he said, noticeably lowering his voice, “but that doesn’t give us license to treat others like crap.” He noticed James’ face flaring up. He felt bad about talking about this in the hall, so he moved closer and lowered his voice even more. He knew it wasn’t the best location to hash this out, but if he didn’t do it now he might never do it. But he wasn’t a jerk, and there was no need in humiliating James.


Chapter 18