Weston Scott is happy with his simple, quiet life in a small English village. Yet he is haunted by deeply closeted yearnings, a secret he has shared with only one person. His best friend, Mark. As a constant reminder to guard his own heart, Weston wears an emerald ring on his hand.<br><br>Mark Goudy has a secret of his own, one that drove him to live far away in London rather than betray his best friend’s trust: he’s always been in love with Weston. Now he’s back, but not for a friendly visit. Mark’s done denying his emotions.<br><br>And if he can manage to slip that ring off Weston’s finger for one night, he’s sure things will change. For both of them.

No Fear in Love

“Sure,” he remarked uncertainly. “I’m trying to give up, so I guess you’re doing me a favor.”


The other man gratefully received the carton, taking a cigarette and likewise, gratefully accepted the use of Jude’s lighter before passing both back.


He inhaled wistfully, smiling slightly.


“Well, at least one of us is on the right track,” he replied.


“It’s more to do with my wife’s insistence than anything else.”


“Oh, I know that story.” He offered his hand, and Charlie gingerly reached out and shook it. “My name’s Sam, by the way; sorry for creeping up on you.”


“Well, Jude, you might just have saved my life here, so I owe you one.”


“It’s nothing,” Jude shrugged. “It’s nice to have a little company, to be honest.”


Chapter 35