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

I bent to him and without a word, kissed his warm lips. He tasted like cognac and mint. When I stood and walked away, Nick was still staring at me as though he wasn’t quite sure I’d actually given him a break. I paused outside the door, out of view and listened.


He let out a long and sad sigh and mustering all my will, I walked away from the door.


In the kitchen, Myles was waiting for me, clearly concerned. “He is all right?”


I bit my lower lip, thinking of tomorrow. Of that stupid party I’d insisted on throwing.


“We’ll get him through it, okay?” Myles brushed my hair away from my forehead. “We’ll help him write a letter to Spencer. We’ll help him find the words to say. He’s not a bad father. Spencer has everything. Everything. Nick took a whole day off just to visit that school for his kid and he works his ass off so that Spencer can have the best of—”


Chapter 95