Be it unrequited fascination with his straight best friend or impossible fantasies of rekindled interest with his heartbreaking ex, Mason has no clue why the perfect connection seems to keep slipping through his fingers. When another lonely holiday seems like too much weight to shoulder, Mason gives up on romance and seeks out the next best thing -- rented company. Jack is everything a person could want in an escort: willing, hot, and built like an angel.<br><br>Mason can't resist. After all, who wouldn't be interested in a guy who loves kid's movies, is a self-professed Peter Pan, and has no problem throwing caution to the wind at a moment's notice. But then interest quickly blooms into a whole new emotion -- an emotion that Mason knows far too well, especially when Jack has no interest in returning it, preferring to keep his heart safely tucked away in Neverland.

Second Star to the Right

Mason frowned at Jack, confused with the sudden attitude shift. “I am so sorry.” He turned first to Emily and then back towards Ahanu. “Things changed. I’m actually with someone.” He nodded at Jack. “And as much as I thank you for your interest—”


Ahanu’s dark eyes flashed, his forehead creased and in an instant Mason knew the expression. It was the same one he saw on Craig’s face whenever they talked. Hopeful desperation being crushed to crumbs. And it broke his heart. God, to have to be twenty-four again; to be out there looking and hoping and wondering. Especially in a town as small as that one was. If the frustration didn’t kill you, the loneliness probably would. Then again, he flashed a quick glance at Jack, one didn’t need to be twenty-four to understand the pain of loneliness.


“You guys are welcome to join us,” Mason said quietly. He caught Ahanu’s eyes with a smile. “But I am here with someone.”


Chapter 36