It's 1953, and the golden age of Hollywood musicals. Paul Dunham couldn't be hotter on the dancefloor or the silver screen. Hoping to capitalize on Paul's popularity, the studio pairs him with up-and-comer Jack Wells.<br><br>On the marquee, it's a match made in heaven, but for Paul, it's a personal hell. He hates Jack's newfangled acting style, and he hates Jack's blue eyes, and he especially hates the fact that Jack is one of the most talented dancers he has ever met.<br><br>Jack, however, doesn't hate Paul. In fact, everything Paul does fascinates him. After their first meeting, Jack is determined to win Paul over, and he won't back down until Paul admits the two of them are perfect partners ... in every way.

Sticks and Stones

He shook Jack with a hard jab into his solar plexus. Sharp pain radiated through Jack’s lungs, stealing his breath for a moment, but he landed square, bouncing on the balls of his feet as he waited for the next blow.


“Been dying to do that all week, haven’t you?” Jack taunted.


Instead of launching himself forward, Paul took a step back. “No. You know what I’ve been dying to do all week? Work with a professional. At least when I tell Jesson about you dragging your little toys to rehearsal, I can also add ‘I told you so.’“


“Except Jesson already knows about Henry, so you’re fuck out of luck there, Twinkles.”


“He knows that you’re dragging unnecessary guests to our closed rehearsals, even though he also knows that I do not like to have random looky-loos when I’m working? Sorry, I doubt it. Jesson wants to get this film made. Either you’re lying, or he’s taken leave of his senses.”


Chapter 16