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

“I’m not ready to see him yet. Look, why can’t you tell him I’m dead and get on with life?”


Russell smiled softly. “We have a rule in the house. No lying. He turns eight in a few weeks. I’ll pay for the trip if you will please come to celebrate with us.”


She stared into her coffee and thought for a while. When she finally spoke, Rosie’s voice was soft. “I’ll get the time off work. I don’t want to get his hopes up, so if there will be no expectations, I’ll come.”


“Thank you, it means a lot. Can I tell you more about him and his family? He met his grandpa, my father. The two hit it off in a heartbeat. Having you in his life would be good for him, as well.”


Rosie looked intently at Russell. “I’d like to see it when I get there, rather than hear about it now. I’m trying hard to keep my life on track.”


Russell finished his coffee and noticed that at no time had Rosie thanked him for the connection with her son.


Chapter 64