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

The man looked over and frowned. “You have a sister, but which is your father?”


Cody grinned. “My daddy, Peter, is a doctor. He’s the coolest doctor in the world.” He pointed over at Russell. “My poppa, Russell, is a lawyer. He’s with my sister, Maria. He’s the coolest lawyer in the world.”


The man’s frown morphed into a deeper scowl. “Shouldn’t you have a mother? How can two fathers be a good thing for a child?”


Peter felt his hackles rise, but Cody pre-empted his response.


“My mother left me and went away. Maria’s mother died in an accident. We try to remember them. Our fathers and grandmothers help us remember them, too. My grandpa, Poppa Russell’s father, helped us adopt our fathers.”


Then the gentleman looked at Peter with something resembling admiration. “May I shake your hand, young man? It appears you’re doing wonderful things for your children. Let me be one to congratulate you. I admire your dedication.”


Chapter 63