While working security for a popular prime time television show, reservist Jared Connors meets guest star Brandon Culpepper. They are immediately drawn to each other, quickly discovering they are what the other needs.<br><br>Even though Brandon is in town only for the duration of his guest-starring role, the men have a short-term affair. When the filming is finished, however, it’s harder to let go than either expected, but Brandon has to leave for another role.<br><br>Their resolve for their relationship to be over is soon tested when each realizes their emotions are more involved than they thought. But figuring out a way for their very different lives to fit together seems an impossible task. Can they trust each other enough to find a long-term solution?

Something Like Trust

“J-J-Jared? W-w-what have I d-d-done?” Brandon’s voice was quiet, the hint of a southern accent softening the edges of his words.


“You haven’t done anything,” I reassured him, making sure I spoke softly.


Confusion creased his brow, and he slightly tilted his head like he was trying to work something out. What it did was expose the column of his neck. I wanted to bite it.


“B-b-but you k-k-keep…” he paused, and inhaled sharply. When he was once against centered, he spoke, his words surer. “You’re always s-staring at me. I reckon that means you must think I’m a threat of s-some s-sort.”


There were about a dozen answers I could have given him, and every one of them was plausible. Every one of them had, at least, a kernel of truth. But I hated games, and I didn’t play them. It wasted too much time and energy, and I refused to lie. I would give him the truth, and he would do with it what he wanted.


Chapter 4