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 had spoken about uniting him, body with spirit. Someone had said that it would only happen if the spirit was willing. He wondered if they were talking about him. He was aware that he kept being drawn away from the house to another place. It was always the same place, but once there, he wasn’t able to move around. He thought he heard sounds, and smelled odours, but it didn’t make much sense to him.


Martin was pleased to lay with Anthony and even though he was unable to feel anything, he knew from the man’s response that he was fully aware of Martin’s kiss and caresses. They spoke of holding and feeling each other. There was talk of being whole and caring for one another. He felt love, so much stronger than when he first came here. He kissed Anthony awake, but soon felt the tug, the irresistible force pulling him away. He wanted to stay but he couldn’t fight it.


Chapter 17