Brian Newell is an average young man, working in a coffee shop. That is, until he learns he’s the sole heir to his grandfather Alistair's fortune. A grandfather he didn't even know he had. There is a proviso, however. He has to live in his grandfather's house for one year, and take care of his macaw, before he can inherit anything.<br><br>Conley Finnegan was close friends with Alistair, cataloguing his book collection and tending to his yard. He’s less than happy when he meets Brian, or so it seems. But that isn't quite the truth. Conley has a deep secret, and part of it requires Brian in his life -- but only as a friend. <br><br>However, his wishes to the contrary, Conley falls in love with Brian, and vice versa. That small problem, as Conley thinks of it, will impact their lives in ways neither can imagine.

A Secret to Die For

When he was downstairs, he put the sunscreen in his pack, and on impulse got a drawing pad and some pencils which he put in the pack’s front pocket. By then it was almost ten-thirty. He paced the living room, suddenly nervous as he waited for Conley to arrive.


I’m being stupid. There’s nothing to be nervous about. We’re friends, aren’t we, and it’s not like a date. It’s two guys spending the afternoon at the pool.


He’d finally convinced himself of that when he heard the front door open and Conley call out, “I’m here.”


“Be right there.” Brian slung the backpack over his shoulder before joining him. He resisted gulping when he saw Conley. Although they were both dressed in shorts, Conley had on a tank top which accented his muscular arms and chest.


Chapter 14