Tristan used to be top salesman at his firm, but when his friends suffered a tragedy, he stepped in to support them. Their ordeal over, Tristan turned to partying to ease his new solitude. Now his job is at risk and he stands to lose his home. Rain spent years putting up with his husband Milo's bad behavior before moving out. Single again and insecure, Rain dreams of creating a marionette show to celebrate kids on the autism spectrum in honor of his son. When Rain meets his neighbor Tristan, he's drawn to Tristan's sex-appeal and protective nature. But Milo keeps pulling on Rain's strings and messing with his head. Tristan loves everything about Rain, including the strange sandwiches, mismatched socks, crazy marionettes, glitter makeup, and messy apartment. And Rain wants to give Tristan everything, but can he cut lose from Milo's hold?

A Touch of Rain

In the door, Mrs. Brien stopped him and kissed both of his cheeks. “Hello, Tristan,” she said, taking his hand in hers. She wore a string of bright beads around her neck and a long green coat. She was an eccentric woman with a clever face and an expressive smile. She’d been so supportive of Philip in the last months and working hard at making the school staff more inclusive and tolerant. “You’re in for a treat this afternoon.” She’d seen Rain’s show a few times and was enthusiastic about it. “Have a great show,” she said, shaking his hand. She spoke with Bernie and Rachel and then they all entered the school.


The auditorium’s foyer was filled with people and Tristan recognized many familiar faces; parents he’d met during his short time off from work. Standing a little away from the crowd, were Milo and Sheila. Milo wore a pink shirt. And that small gesture of support warmed Tristan’s heart.


Chapter 80