Ian is intrigued by the idea of “servicing” straight guys, and through a friend contacts Shawn. Although the experience is not quite what he expected, Ian discovers a deep satisfaction in being submissive. Shawn, an amateur boxer, begins to visit more frequently, sometimes even sleeping over. Ian also visits Shawn at the gym to watch him train. The two men connect, and Ian is hopeful something more might develop. Then Shawn dies unexpectedly in Ian’s bed. Now Ian finds himself facing the suspicions of the investigating policeman, Glen, even though Shawn died from natural causes. When Glen returns to question Ian further, he begins asking for specific details about Ian’s and Shawn’s relationship. Then he insists on Ian performing re-enactments. Soon all pretense is stripped away as things grow more intense between them. Ian starts to hope something might be developing with Glen. But the cop is keeping secrets from him. Will Ian still be interested when he discovers why Glen initiated things between them in the first place?

The Pugilist at Rest

“So, if he died after shtupping you, then good for him. Happy ending, I say. Nothing to feel sad about.” After a pause he, said, “I would love to die like that: happy.”


I looked at him, not liking him much at that moment and very aware of the limitations of friends.


But all I said was, “You don’t understand.”


“Sure, I’m okay,” I snapped, nettled.


Zvika raised his hands, palms outward. “Just asking. Concerned friend here.”


Zvika left shortly after that. I went upstairs to start work in my office.


I was just getting going, when I remembered what that young cop had said about coming back. Thinking of it, it did sound a bit menacing, like a threat. So whythen, I asked myself, did I get hard just thinking about it? 7: Cruiser


Chapter 15