At a friend’s wedding reception, Strider is berated by a man who assumes Strider is his son’s lover. He doesn’t even know the guy! The man apologizes and offers Strider a sales position at his company. After the reception Ryan, the man’s son, calls to apologize for his father. The two start talking, and Strider confesses his attraction to men, though he’s only ever dated girls. The two find they have a lot in common, and one date leads to another as their relationship deepens.<br><br>On top of the world with a new love and a new job, Strider accidentally comes out to his boss, putting his position in jeopardy. Can Strider learn to accept who he is and come out, celebrating his new relationship with Ryan while working for Ryan’s homophobic father?

Making Wise Decisions

Seconds dragged. His mind flitted from his granddad, to his dad, to Ryan, but he kept a laser lock on Larry.


Larry broke the stare. “I need to make a call.” Rage burned in Larry’s eyes.


Strider opened the door. “I’ll wait in my cubicle for ten minutes. After that, I leave, and the war is on. We all know I’ll win with this recording. Both of you will likely be fired, and the company might go bankrupt. You’re decision.” He checked his watch and left, his body trembling.


Oh, thank you, Ryan, for the warning and advice.


Time passed, Larry called on the intercom, and Strider returned to Paul’s office.


Larry wore his game face. “A check for $300,000 will be delivered within the hour. You can pack your office and sign the resignation.”


Chapter 9