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

“He managed to escape somehow, through the chaos,” Eileen said bitterly. “But they’re looking for him, Tim,” she assured. 


Tim sat staring at nothing as memories of the whole night came back and started to cry.


Tim was awake, holding onto his mom’s hand, when Tom wheeled himself into his room. Tim’s face broke out into a smile at seeing his handsome Tom’s face.


Eileen got up and kissed Tim on his temple, then walked to stand over Tom. He looked her in the eyes nervously and she bent down and threw her arms around his shoulders and hugged him tight. She drew back and looked him in the eye.


“Thanks for bringing him back safe. You are a very brave man, Tom,” she said, and kissed him on his cheek. Eileen excused herself and left them alone. Tom couldn’t bring himself to make eye contact with Tim. Tim saw the awkwardness in Tom’s posture and didn’t know how to approach him.


Chapter 31