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

“Why can’t you go to West Virginia with him?” Hank asked.


Craig glanced at Mitchell, their eyes meeting. “I would follow him anywhere,” he admitted softly. “All he has to do is ask.”


Hank said something, but at that moment, every cell in Craig’s body was focused on Mitchell. His cheeks pinked up as he held Craig’s gaze and he bit his lower lip. Craig squeezed his hand and swallowed hard.


A few more people joined them, but Craig was lost in Mitchell’s eyes. Frozen to his seat. He couldn’t move. He could barely breathe.


“What are you doing?” Mitchell whispered, his pupils black as night.


Craig’s heart thundered in his ears. “What do you think I’m doing?” he asked, licking his lips.


Mitchell leaned in until his mouth was almost touching Craig’s ear. “I think you’re messing with their heads.”


Craig squeezed his hand again. Shit. I can’t tell him the truth right here. Can I?


Chapter 16