Journalist Paul Bradley reports on an act of heroism by paramedic Drew McGregor and goes on to have him nominated for a bravery award. Drew's heroism is a great story that Paul wants to make the most of, but he has other reasons to want to see the great-looking and openly gay Drew again. Ones he doesn't dare speak about, since he's deeply closeted and terrified of being outed, fearing losing his career.<br><br>When Drew accidentally finds out Paul is gay, he's initially angry at the deception, but he's sympathetic too and his kindness encourages Paul to confess his feelings. Drew likes Paul, but won't date a closeted man, saying that leads to too many lies, too much pain. Paul will have to reevaluate all the choices he’s made for the sake of career and family, if he wants Drew to give him a chance.

Role Model

“It doesn’t have to be more than tonight,” he said. “Just a bit of fun, right?” He tried to laugh, make his tone light. Drew didn’t buy it for a second.


“I’ll take anything I can get from you, Drew McGregor.”


“That’s not how I do things. I’d be taking advantage.”


He was welcome to take full advantage. Paul had to get out of here. He started to get up. Drew caught hisarm. “We’re still friends, Paul.”


Paul turned away but at the last moment turned back.


“If I wasn’t in the closet…would you?”


He didn’t dare try to see Drew again. He sent Drew an email the next day, apologizing, saying he’d been drunk and promising to keep his distance. Drew replied, saying it was fine, forget about it. They spoke on the phone a few times. The kiss, Canal Street, it was never mentioned.


Chapter 11