Two men with nothing in common except friendship. One man is Darren Cameron, a cop who patrols the streets nightly. After his divorce -- because he revealed to his wife he was gay -- he gained full custody of his son, Jesse. Jesse is now twenty-one, living with his girlfriend, and trying to play matchmaker between his landlord, Malcom, and Darren. The other is Rob, a homeless war veteran living on the streets, who has adamantly resists all Darren's efforts to help him start his life over. When Rob is attacked, Darren finally has what he needs to help his friend get off the streets. Despite Rob's wariness, he moves into Darren’s home under the guise of protective custody ... much to Jesse's dismay. Can Darren and Rob handle what comes next, including their growing attraction for each other? Or will Rob ultimately reject Darren's help and return to his former life?

Lonesome Men

“How’s the lasagna doing?” Darren called out.


“Fine,” Rob replied. “It should be done by the time they get here.”


“Meaning now?” Darren asked when the doorbell rang.


Rob joined him, saying, “They’re early.”


“Nope, right on time,” Darren told him as he opened the door to let Jesse and Leah in. “I figured Malcom would be right behind you,” he said when he didn’t see him.


“He got held up by an overflowing toilet in one of the apartments,” Jesse replied. “He said he’d be here as soon as it was fixed and he’s changed clothes.”


“The joys of being a building manager.”


“No kidding.” Jesse looked past his father, his eyes widening. “You look great, Rob. I like the haircut.”


“Thanks.” Rob smiled ruefully. “I’m still getting used to it. We have wine, if you two would like some.”


“I’d love some,” Leah replied. “It was one of those days.”


“Busy?” Darren asked, while Rob went to get their drinks.


Chapter 40