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

“Stress will do that.” Across the table, Ryan patted Strider’s hand. “I’m really sorry this happened to you.”


“But you saved me with that information and having me buy a recorder.”


“What are you going to do with the money?”


Strider leaned back. “I’m not sure, but I’ll start by paying off my parents’ mortgage. My grandpa barely gets by. He moved from his Oregon farm to an apartment in town, and he still has debt.” He shoved a prawn into his mouth. “Maybe take you on a nice weekend? Or a week? A cruise?”


Ryan stayed silent as they stared into each other’s eyes. No words were needed. They ate while they sustained the stare.


“Strider, I feel genuinely comfortable being with you.”


Strider let his eyes drift closed and savored being with Ryan. That prior feeling of peace rolled through him.


“I’m sorry. That was probably too much, too soon. Sorry.”


Strider was quick to answer. “No! I feel the same way. I savored your words.”


Chapter 10