In 1910, the United Kingdom is in turmoil. King Edward dies after only nine years on the throne. The social class system that upheld British society for centuries is being chipped away by social, political, and economic unrest across the Empire. Amidst this backdrop, Reverend Leander Norris is accused of sodomy. After discovering his own self-worth and the meaning of unconditional love, Leander finds the courage to stand up for what he believes is right and pleads "not guilty" to the charges.<br><br>Throughout the trial, Leander's past is revealed, including the temptations that bring the accusations against him. By the end of the trial, Leander is once again reunited with a romantic interest from the past. But it may be too late to rekindle any love that remains, given the circumstances of the era and Leander's likely sentence.<br><br>Love is greater than hope or faith, but can Leander convince a jury that the love he shares with another man is natural?

Disappear with Me

“Your Honor, instead of starting my closing arguments, I need to call another witness, Mrs. Basil Shocking.”


The request caused murmurs to bubble up in the courtroom. Mr. Shocking stared straight ahead with Mrs. Shocking perched at his side. Vengeance covered her face in a grin.


“I object!” Weeks shouted. It had been the only objection during the entire trial that sounded sincere and ardent. “The prosecution rested some time ago. It’s time to move this trial forward. We are ready for closing statements and deliberations.”


“Overruled,” the judge said. “The witness was on the list, and the prosecution reserves the right to call additional witnesses.”


“Thank you, sir,” Noble said. “The prosecution calls Mrs. Basil Shocking to the stand.”


On cue, Mrs. Shocking rose and walked slowly to the witness stand. Leander looked over his shoulder at Basil, who kept gazing straight ahead. Basil’s glassy eyes revealed the tears forming.


Chapter 61