Although he's nervous on his wedding day, Pat is taking all the stresses and mishaps in stride until his mother announces that Nicky -- his first boyfriend -- is at the door. Unexpectedly.<br><br>While his mum and sisters fuss around with family crises and preparations, Pat lets his mind wander, remembering how he met Nicky, their growing friendship, and the closeness and love that led to so much more. The fun and sexy passion they shared ... and the painful fights.<br><br>But why is Nicky here, at the house? And why is Pat so worried about it? As he goes downstairs to face Nicky, his family waits with bated breath to find out whether there's another disaster looming ... or whether Pat and Nicky's story is something far more romantic.

The Right Choice

“I’m sorry,” she said, back with me. “Please come over tonight, and we can talk about it all. But it’s not a surprise to me, Pat.”


“Do you think I live in some bygone bubble?” she said, with spirit. “I didn’t spring to life at mother-age. I’ve lived my own life, I know the world today, and I know my son. And when Nicky stayed local after university, and you and he were such friends, I…well, I did think you might become more than that.”


“Neither did you!” she said smartly. “But I could see how you felt about him, and I assumed you’d tell me in your own good time.”


“Oh. Mum.” Funny how there’s never any substitute for a mother, whatever age, and however macho a man thinks he is. “I love him, Mum.”


She laughed softly. “I know, love. So why are you crying?”


Damn mothers who know the tone of their son’s voice so well. “He’s gone. He left me. He got tired of waiting for me to declare it officially.”


Chapter 15