Fourteen years ago, on the banks of Craving’s Creek, Ryde swore to his best friend Alistair he’d never be alone in the world. Though Alistair was destined for the priesthood, there was something beyond holy about the first kiss they shared. But a fun camping trip went horribly wrong when Alistair was involved in a horrific incident. Now, at age thirty-one, Ryde’s life is a mess of alcohol and the painful imprint of his last look into Alistair’s desperate eyes. Since the evil they encountered on that shore, his first love has been lost to him ... until he learns a friend’s wedding is to be officiated by a priest named Father Alistair Genet. Amid the rush of emotions, one thought crystallizes: Ryde’s love for Alistair has never died. It’s stronger than ever. But can it win over the repressed memories slowly tearing Alistair’s mind apart?

Craving's Creek

I used to drink it on the rocks, nice and cold, but I don’t bother with ice anymore. The drink hits me hard and eases the fire inside me. Under heavy lids, I gaze around at my home. I don’t own much. But I don’t need much either. My phone rings and I turn to look at it.


Saturdays are always tricky. My mother knows I’m home and she’ll keep calling until I answer. I can’t talk to her right now.


The machine picks her call up. Ryde? Honey, are you there? It’s me. She coughs. Hello? Just want to know how your week went. How’s Shay doing? Pause. Ryde? Are you there? Baby, listen—her voice drops—don’t forget your father’s retirement party is in two weeks. I already got him your gift. I cringe. You can just pay me back when you can. Silence. Okay, well, call me as soon as you get my message. Pause. I love you, baby. Click.


Chapter 33