H.D. Nels

When Martin Provost comes out to his family, his parents accept him but, surprisingly, his twin sister does not. On his way home, Martin’s car is hit by a truck that crosses into his lane. He survives the accident, but barely -- he is unresponsive. Anthony Carsen is a widower trying to deal with his partner’s suicide. He lives near the scene of Martin’s accident and rushes to help, though he thinks he might be too late. Though Martin’s body is in a coma, his spirit is drawn to Anthony, and soon the two fall in love. But Martin’s isn’t the only presence in Anthony’s home, and soon other spirits make their presences known. Martin isn’t dead, but his life is fading fast. Can Anthony convince his spirit to return to his body? Will Anthony’s late partner leave him and Martin in peace to pursue their love? If the spirit is willing ...

If the Spirit Is Willing

Anthony decided to make a cup of hot chocolate before heading to bed. He put the kettle on. In the mug, he added the cocoa powder with a bit of milk, mixing it into a thick paste. When the water boiled, he slowly poured it until he had a rich, creamy drink. He walked down the main hallway towards the porch and nearly dropped his beverage when he stopped suddenly. On his deacon’s bench the air shimmered and appeared almost translucent. He stood still, listening, but the only sounds were the wind through the trees outside and a far off fog horn. He decided it was his overactive imagination on top of all the activities of the day. He went back to the living room, sipped his hot chocolate, and tried to slow his thoughts. When he was finished, he walked once more down the hallway where everything appeared as it should be. So he turned and went to bed.


Chapter 4