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

Maria paused to chat with the drummer. She spoke softly and the drummer nodded then shook her hand. Maria came back to the table with a beaming smile.


Russell and Peter looked at each other wide-eyed and dreaded the news that was coming their way.


Once seated, she looked at Alicia and said, “Shannon said she would show me how to play the drums. If I learn, can I play music with you and Cody, too?”


Alicia laughed. “You betcha, cookie, and we’ll make some pretty amazing sounds, too. We might have to get your fathers to let more kids adopt them so we can get a full band together.” She grinned at the men.


Everyone survived the weekend events. Maria’s uncle and his family went back east. He was grateful to George for getting him a badly-needed job. He promised they would keep in regular contact with Maria and would send the photos of her parents that they had.


Chapter 58