Trey hates Christmas with a passion. Despite the fact he needs to deal with it because he owns a costume shop, it is an anathema to him because he broke up with his lover on Christmas Day three years ago. Marty is a bartender at the local bar Trey goes to sometimes to unwind after a hectic day. He's more than a bit interested in Trey, but doesn't know how to let him know, especially since he'd never told Trey he's gay, too. When Trey tells Marty he's suddenly shorthanded, with a week to go until Christmas, Marty jumps on the chance to get to know him better by volunteering to assist at the shop. Can Marty help Trey overcome his Christmas phobia? More to the point, can Trey accept that Marty is interested in him not only as a friend, but on a more personal level?

The Seven Days of Christmas

“Not even. We’re testing the waters, is all. We might find out we’re good as friends and nothing more.”


“Trey, I barely know you, but there’s one thing I have picked up on. You’re gun-shy for some reason. How do I know, you ask? I’ve seen you interact with some of the guys who come in here. A couple of them were realfriendly and you backed off as if they were going to bite you.”


“Yeah, you did. I asked Nan about it and she said something happened. She wouldn’t tell me what except it had to do with Christmas. I won’t pry, but honestly, if you like Marty, give him a chance.”


“Good. He seems like a nice guy and he’s interested in you. Don’t blow it.”


“Yes, mother,” Trey muttered at the same time that the front door opened and Marty came in, carrying three bags from the sandwich shop.


“Lunch is served,” he announced, setting them on the counter. “Do we eat here, or in back?”


Chapter 12