When video game designer Brett Bett attends a New Year's Eve party, he reunites with friends and foes. Happily single with no intention of discovering a "possible" boyfriend, Brett meets the private party's handsome bartender, Nevin McBane. The attraction between them is immediate.<br><br>Through an assortment of party games, the two become quite acquainted with each other. Numerous drinks are shared, histories of their pasts are learned, and dancing becomes necessary.<br><br>Frankly, Brett thinks he’s met a great guy, a charmer. Someone he can maybe fall for. As midnight approaches and the clock counts down to the New Year, Brett must make a decision. Does he want to go home with Nevin after the party, or stay single and unencumbered?

Men at Play

??How about you, Brett? Do you like to stay with the same man for a long time???


I don??t hesitate. ??If he??s the right man. I won??t be abused by some asshole.??


??I don??t blame you. There??s no room for abuse in the world.??


We come to the center of the alley and the side entrance to his apartment building. The door is bright yellow, chipped paint. Two brick steps welcome him home. He releases me and jingles keys in the right pocket of his winter coat. He pulls the keys out and finds the proper one to open the door.


??Follow me, guy,?? he says over his right shoulder, opening the door, offering me a further glimpse inside his world.


Chapter 15