Chapter 105

Sam reached over and took his hand. Tristan held on tight.

“And now, not only did I drag you into my sordid world I have put you in danger. Grave danger.”

“There are no rules for this kind of relationship,” Tristan said, holding tight to Sam’s hand.

“Yes, there are,” Sam said, looking at him. “The law has plenty of rules about it. So does the church.”

“Not those kind of rules,” Tristan said. “The kind of rules that men and women have. Courtship rules.”

“Tristan.” Sam paused, his head down bent. “There are no rules so we must make it up as we go on, but we know that this can’t last. Don’t we?”

“Of course.” Tristan looked away as he said it.

“I’d like to have this weekend because you want me. Not because you are paying me, but because you want to be with me. Just as you said.”

Tristan’s heart hurt. He realised that as he tried to breathe in. Realised it as he tried the lie in his head. “Just for this weekend then,” he said. “We will just have this weekend.”