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

“I don’t know. I just think maybe your friend is an idiot.”


“What friend?” Casey lifted his coffee to his lips.


“Drew. Why the hell hasn’t he taken you to bed?”


The waiter chose that moment to appear with their sundae.


Casey covered his laugh with his hand over his mouth as George felt his own face heat. The waiter, the same man who had greeted them, gave George a rather piercing look before telling them to enjoy.


George tried to look nonchalant. Knew he probably failed. “I meant it, though. You’re gorgeous and funny. You cook like nobody’s business. You have great taste in decorating.”


“For Christmas anyway,” Casey added with a smile.


“My condo looks great. And very festive.” George eyed him over the rim of his coffee mug. “Want to see it again?”


Casey, in the middle of taking a bit of the sundae, lowered his spoon. “What have you got in mind?”


“When do you go back to the hospital?”


Chapter 10