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

“Okay,” River tossed out a soft agreement. Into the dishwasher the mug went. Into the shower River went, then past the bathroom counter, making sure to put his ring back on, then to the bed. He slept the rest of the day and didn’t feel like leaving the bed that evening, either. Dale took a call, he was going back to work next week, then met him in bed. The next night, River was out again, staying in a downtown motel on Hearth Street.


Chapter 18