Craig and Mitchell have been friends for years, but each of them reached a point where that camaraderie became ... more. Mitchell’s kept his feelings close to his chest. So has Craig, but now that they’ve graduated from UMKC, he knows it’s his last chance to show Mitchell they’re meant to be before their careers take them to opposite sides of the country.<br><br>He insists they can’t leave Missouri behind without one last adventure. Mitchell agrees to a road trip to visit all the touristy spots and say goodbye to their home state.<br><br>As they spend their days and nights together, buried feelings rise to the surface and hope blossoms. When their journey ends with a dance beneath the Branson stars, will they find love and a future together at the end of the road?

Gateway to Love

His gut was twisted as he wondered how to get rid of the awkwardness still hanging between them. Maybe Mitchell regretted it because he thought it was one-night thing. Maybe he could still show Mitchell what kind of man he could be. What kind of boyfriendhe could be.


Craig had hoped that last night would show Mitchell how he felt, but they hadn’t talked about anything afterward, both too content and tired—and scared, at least on Craig’s part. If he wanted a real chance, he couldn’t put it off much longer. Craig had to tell him how he felt. Even if Mitchell shot him down, he had to know. He was leaving for California, and not knowing would be worse than being turned down in his mind. It was time to be honest and he made up his mind to talk with Mitchell as soon as they were back at the hotel and could be alone.


Craig paid the taxi driver and slid out, holding the door for Mitchell. He grabbed his arm, holding him in place while he closed the door.


Chapter 15