Heavy metal backbeat vs. the classics. Bassist Kit Barlow doesn't have time for romance. He's holding down two jobs and playing in a heavy metal band -- while raising his seven-year-old son by himself. But when Ebon joins the Cub Scouts, Kit can't help but notice his group leader, Max Hill. Max is everything Kit likes in a man: tall, dark, and determined. The two men come up with a way to keep their nosy families from trying to set them up with every available man in the city: they'll pretend to be dating each other. In between the afternoon pool games and the Sunday mac 'n cheese, Kit and Max find their pretend romance is developing some real heat. There's only one problem now -- Kit finds out Max despises rock and roll music. How's a heavy metal rocker supposed to woo a man who only likes classical music? Can they make their relationship work, or will they find their differences hit a sour note?

Backbeat Rhythm

“What have you got to lose? All he can say is no thanks.”


Ebon made a face. “You’re going to go out with Mr. Hill? You’re not going to kiss, are you? That’s gross.”


“For your information, young man,” Val said, swatting Ebon’s arm in turn, “grown-ups like kissing. You’ll figure it out once you’re older.”


“You guys always say that. I’m already seven and I still think that stuff’s gross.”


“And I’m not going out with anybody,” Kit said, grabbing another slice of bread. “I don’t have time for that sort of thing.”


“You know, that’s exactly what Sophia says about her brother. He doesn’t have time for a social life. The two of you are so alike.”


Chapter 10