Shay Rogers has avoided going back home to Alabama because he fears running into his high school lover, Dwayne Sayles. Because of Shay’s reputation as an All-American straight stud, he tried to keep his love for Dwayne secret. Shay’s fear of his friends and family finding out about him ultimately led to his breaking up with Dwayne. However, when the invitation to his fifteen year high school reunion arrives, Shay’s friend convinces him to go, with her as his fictitious girlfriend. Within moments of meeting again, the long-dormant feelings between Shay and Dwayne are rekindled, but so are Shay’s fears. Is Shay finally ready to embrace the chance of happiness by living openly with Dwayne, or will his need to hide the truth about himself win out yet again?

Class of '03

Shay froze. He furtively looked from Dwayne to his brother and sister.


“No problem,” Shay’s brother, Jeremy, replied.


Lilly and Dwayne sat down. Dwayne smiled warmly across the table at Shay, who was sitting between Melissa and Jeremy. Relieved Dwayne had no chance to sit next to him, he tentatively returned Dwayne’s smile. Dwayne’s foot brushed Shay’s. Shay pulled his leg back, a prickle of panic running down his spine. Had it been an accident or had Dwayne done it on purpose? Shay hoped it had been the former.


Jeremy had graduated the year Shay was a freshman. His sister Alyssa was two years behind him. Any connection between Shay and Dwayne would have been largely unknown. Remembering this allowed Shay to relax somewhat.


“Hi, I’m Shay’s big brother, Jeremy, and this is his little sis, Alyssa. And this charming young lady is Melissa, Shay’s soon to be fiancée.”


Melissa stepped in. “Now, Jeremy, you know that’s not true. We’re just good friends.”


Chapter 22