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

“Come on back,” Drew said. “I’m cold.”


It was a little chilly. Paul turned away from the window, leaving the curtains partly open, and dropped his dressing gown. The chill hit his naked skin, and he slipped under the covers quickly. Drew pulled him close; then he made a small protest.


“Your hands and feet are freezing!”


“Sorry.” They soon warmed as he wrapped himself around Drew.


“Now?” Paul grinned. “Well, there were a couple of things we didn’t get around to last night.”


“Oh, put it on a leash, will you? I meant in general terms. Where do we go from here?”


“Do you want to see me again?” Paul asked.


Drew pulled away and sat up against the pillows so he could look into Paul’s face. “I’m sorry if I seem arrogant to ask you that.”


Chapter 14