A year has passed since Derek's motorcycle accident, but he still battles with brain injury symptoms. Forced to take a sick leave from work, Derek picks up painting to occupy his time. Through his art, he begins to rediscover his imagination and turns to his journal again. Meanwhile, a new business venture is on the horizon for Nick and he can't postpone his trip to Norway any longer. Concerned for Derek's safety, Nick convinces Derek that he needs someone to watch over him while he's away. Myles has just returned from Japan, where he spent time mending his heart after another disappointment. He's longing for a break, so when Nick and Derek reach out to him, he can't refuse. Each man wants what's best for Derek, but soon, Nick and Myles discover that they're not rivals, because what's there between them is echoed in Derek's heart. Can all three men let go of their fear and allow this new love to unfold?

Persimmon Kiss

Derek went to the sink, and as he splashed water on his face, the three young guys who’d been talking nearby, watched him, their conversation slowly dwindling, their stares lingering on him. In the mirror, our eyes met, and my heart skipped a beat. Man, Derek was still so beautiful.


Seconds later, we were climbing the stairs to the third floor, but halfway up, Derek pulled me aside to the dark corner there. “Hey, about tonight.” He delicately touched my shirt collar. “I don’t know if I want anything to happen.”


“No, but Nick, I felt it. I feltthe attraction between you and Myles. It was really strong. Palpable. He wants you so much, he can barely look at you.”


“Derek, see, that’s not what I felt at all. He couldn’t keep his hands off youon the floor.”


Chapter 53