JL Merrow

Only half the man he used to be -- but maybe that’s enough The Taliban may have taken both Chris’s legs, but he came back from Afghanistan with his sense of humour and his lust for life firmly intact. The one thing that can shake his confidence is meeting Josh, the one-night stand from before his tour of duty he hasn’t been able to forget. It turns out Josh hasn’t forgotten Chris, either. He spent the time they were apart fearing the worst every time a soldier was reported killed in action -- and wishing Chris would use the number Josh gave him, and call. Josh’s delight on seeing Chris again quickly turns to shock on seeing his injuries. With Chris such a changed man, can they still have a future?

Permanently Legless

After you’ve had a three-way in a place, it tends to stick in your mind.


Actually, come to think of it, I don’t reckon it’s ever been used for anything but group sex. I’m going to be well hacked off later if I have to wait for a bloody orgy to finish before I can take a leak. I think about suggesting they keep it locked, like a lot of places do, but on the other hand, it pisses me off something chronic to have to ask for a key, like I’m five years old and back at school, asking teacher’s permission to have a pee.


A space opens around me. I’d like to think it’s respect, but it’s more likely they’re worried amputation is contagious. Or that I’ll roll on their toes. Still, it means I get to jump the queue to order my scotch, so who gives a shit? I yell out my order at the bar, and the barman looks around, startled, before finally looking down. At least, when he’s poured my drink, he pushes it over to the edge of the bar where I can reach it.


Chapter 3