Casey Mackenzie unexpectedly finds himself in need of a “boyfriend” for his Thanksgiving dinner. For several months, Casey has been putting off family questions and invites with talk of his boyfriend “George.” Only now they actually expect to meet George at the holiday dinner. George Accardo is Casey’s sexy neighbor who also happens to be an actor Casey once had a rather drunken rendezvous with. Casey has avoided George ever since. Until now. Casey offers George fifty bucks to pretend to be his boyfriend for the duration of the Thanksgiving dinner. George has been intrigued by Casey since their first meeting but gave him space when Casey freaked. He accepts the job, though Casey assures him they will “break up” before Christmas. Casey finds himself still charmed by George as Christmas approaches. Can George convince Casey he’s the gift he’s been hoping for before the holiday arrives?

The Gift of Casey

“What are your plans for the weekend, Casey?” Drew asked as Casey came out with homemade apple and pumpkin pies.


“I work twelve-hour shifts at the hospital both Saturday and Sunday.”


“And tomorrow he’s helping me decorate my condo for Christmas,” George spoke up impulsively.


“Oh, how sweet. You have an artificial tree?” Lucy asked.


“I do. Got it at Target last year in the after-Christmas sales. With the play at the Geffen starting on Wednesday, I figured this weekend would be the best time to decorate.” George grinned. “I was fortunate Casey was available to help me.”


Casey was giving him the side-eye, but George pretended not to notice.


“By the way, babe, dinner was fantastic,” George murmured.


Everyone else joined in a chorus of agreements and he saw Casey relax and even preen. It was a good day. 5


Casey, still in his pajamas, was only on his second cup of coffee when there was a rap at his door. With a frown, he went and peaked out the peephole.


Chapter 8