Twenty-two-year-old Jacob Tomkins is sentenced to seven years’ labour in the fledgling colony of Sydney Town, Australia. The voyage across the sea is arduous. He is travelling with mean, street-hardened criminals, some of whom would like to use him for their pleasure. Fortunately he meets Peter, who takes Jacob under his wing. Together they find moments of pleasure amid the drudgery of the voyage. They share their hopes and dreams, and finally declare their love for each other upon the eve of their arrival in Sydney Town -- a place where the currency is rum, distilled and controlled by the powerful military. But what will happen once they disembark? The chances of remaining together are slim. A lot can happen in seven years, especially when Jacob’s new master takes a liking to him. Is their love strong enough to survive the ravages of time? Can they survive the rigors of their sentences?

Across the Sea

“I can’t stand up, boy. You’ll have to undress me lying down.”


Jacob frowned again, watching as Jasper fell backwards onto the bed.


“Did you enjoy yourself, sir?” he asked, undoing Jasper’s shirt buttons.


“I did,” he replied. “Did you?”


Jacob manoeuvred Jasper out of his shirt.


“I didn’t really get the chance, sir.”


Jasper mumbled something unintelligible.


Jacob pulled Jasper’s shoes and socks off, then his trousers and underwear, knowing well that when that last piece of clothing came off, he’d discover Jasper’s erection.


Jasper struggled up onto his elbows and Jacob helped him under the covers.


“Now you get undressed,” said Jasper. “Get undressed and climb in here with me.”


A dozen thoughts ran through Jacob’s mind. I should say no. I don’t want to. That kiss this afternoon. I want to be kissed like that again. I shouldn’t. What will Samuel say? I’m tired. I can’t.


Chapter 33