Three men: Neil Stafford, a scene designer. He is still infatuated with his first lover. It's reason he wants to go to their college reunion -- to see if he can finally put his feelings for Zeke behind him, with the help of his best friend. Zeke Hale, a lawyer. He's also a married, and very closeted, gay man although he clandestinely slept with as many guys as possible while in college, including Neil. Kev Deering, a waiter. He's been in love with Neil almost since they first met two years ago. However, for reasons of his own, he hasn't told Neil he's bi, so Neil treats him as his very safe, straight best friend and nothing more. Three men. One will be dead by the end of the reunion. One will be the primary suspect in the murder. One will do all he can to try to solve the murder.

The Reunion

“As long as someonedoes.” Looking disconsolate, Neil began buttoning his shirt.


Kev followed suit as he said, “Hey, keep the faith. What is they say? Murder will out?”


“I know it will.” Neil smiled weakly. “It better.”


“Between us and my dad, and the good detectives, whoever did it willbe caught.” Getting up, Kev pulled Neil to his feet. “Right now, though, it’s time for me to go home.”


Neil walked with him to the door where they shared one more kiss. “Sleep well,” he said.


“Planning on it,” Kev replied, hoping he would. “You, too.”


“You bet.” As he walked down the hallway, Kev looked back and waved when he saw Neil watching him. “Get to bed.”


“I am, I am.” Neil blew him a kiss then stepped back into the apartment, closing the door


He’s right. We’d better find the killer, the sooner the better. Maybe I’m being stupid, but I don’t want us to take the next step until I’m sure Iwon’t be the one ending up in jail.7


Chapter 26