Successful lawyer Russell Bennett struggles with three issues -- he’s alone, having lost his immediate family to cancer; he’s also susceptible to the disease; and he’s infatuated with his doctor, who represents everything he could ever dream of in a partner. Dr. Peter Wilson has realised his dream of providing a safe and caring medical space for the LGBTQ population. But he’s conflicted between his personal interest in Russell Bennet and the need for professional conduct. But when Russell’s test results come back, the results are sobering. The two decide to confront Russell’s cancer treatments together. But it isn’t happy ever after yet. A well-meaning friend arranges a reunion between Russell and his estranged father. Soon after, they meet two young orphans who’ve had their own tragedies. With the adoption process ongoing, they all have to adapt to their new family dynamics. Then they adopt another child whose paternal grandparents take legal action to gain custody. Will Russell and Peter be able to weather the storms as they struggle to build a real family?

A Real Family

“Hello, Mr. Bennett, my name is Bernice Jones. I’m the receptionist at the Inglewood Clinic in Calgary. May I have a few minutes of your time?”


“Yes, Ms. Jones, what can I do for you?”


She noticed the hesitation. “First, call me Bernice, please. That’s what Russell calls me.” She heard a sharp inhale. “Your son was diagnosed with colon cancer. I found your information when I searched the national databases. I’d hoped a bit more medical history would help. I saw that you also battled cancer and you are still free of the disease.”


“Bernice, they call it remission here, at least until I’m cancer-free for more than five years. I did my regular check-ups and followed all the things to minimize the risk. Tell me about Russell, what stage? Has he started treatments yet?”


Chapter 19