While celebrating the Supreme Court same-sex ruling, Josh hides his deep aversion to marriage. He lets his lover Adam believe they’ll eventually marry. But when his wedding-planner mother pushes him too hard to take that step, Josh declares in anger he won’t ever marry Adam.<br><br>Adam overhears and flees. Crushed at having been led on, he takes refuge at his old hangout. There he runs into his ex-boyfriend, who tries to take advantage of Adam’s vulnerability. Things go from bad to miserable, leaving Adam struggling to get through the worst night of his life.<br><br>Frantically searching for Adam, Josh is forced to accept he could lose him forever -- a prospect he just can’t face. Can he overcome his fears and propose marriage to save their love? That might work, but only if he can somehow convince Adam to trust him again.

I Do, I Don't

A few minutes later, a knock again broke the silence, and the reverend poked his head around the door. He cleared his throat and, looking embarrassed, said, “I hate to do this, but there’s another wedding party coming in. They’re going to need the parlor. But you’re very welcome to wait in the meditation chapel. It’s quite soothing.” He opened the door fully and stepped into the room. “May I escort you there?”


Adam stood and straightened the tuxedo jacket he’d refused to take off. That would have been admitting defeat. “Thank you. I’d like to see the chapel.”


Karen moved to face Adam and took his hands in hers. In a soft voice she said, “Honey, are you sure you want to stay? I can drive you home.” Her face crumpled. “Or you can come stay at my house.”


Adam squeezed her hands. “I’m staying here. But you can go if you want to.”


“I’m notleaving you.” Her tone had suddenly turned fierce.


Chapter 24