River's husband is in a coma, and River is putting on a tiring act of pretending to care. When he meets the charming and quirky Luke by chance in the hospital garden, he receives a pick-me-up like no other. Luke is a traveler who never stays in a town more than two months. He's searching for something to dedicate his heart to again after leaving behind his prior life. He and River hit it off well and start an intimate relationship while Luke is in town. It doesn't take long for Luke to see how unhappy River is in his current life, but can he convince River to leave town with him? River struggles to admit the truth to himself and Luke has his own dreams for a life without regrets. Their relationship is shaken further with an unexpected turn of events regarding River's husband, but will this help solidify River's choice? How long is Luke willing to wait for him?

Sleeping on a Bench

“He’s not dead but he’s not exactly here either. He’s just there!”


“In a coma. For almost five months.” River threw his hands out across the table like the fact was a piece of gossip.


“Oh wow. Oh my god. Sorry, that is terrible.”


“Yeah. What the fuck am I supposed to do?!”


“You’re…not upset, are you?” Luke grabbed his hands, holding them over the table. Pieces of River were dropping into place; the picture of River’s feelings and shackles was slowly being revealed. “I mean, you are upset, but it doesn’t seem like you’re upset about him.”


“Well, of course this is the worst thing ever, but…” River almost continued but a switch flipped across his face like his true feelings were turned off. “I’m sorry, I guess I’m just a mess. It’s all a lot.” It sounded like a rehearsed, default response.


“Yeah, of course, I get it.” Luke squeezed his hands. “Hey, let’s go out tomorrow, too. It’s good to get out and about when things are happening. It’s not a bad thing.”


Chapter 8