Hotel owner and part-time musician Zeke Bandy is too busy for love. His plate is full running the historic Bandy Hotel and upholding his family’s tradition of offering refuge to strays and runaways. For fun two nights a week, Zeke also plays and sings traditional folk music with his rewritten gay lyrics at the Stonewall Saloon and for occasional celebrations. Then at a gay wedding, Zeke meets Victor Longbow, who just might be the man of his dreams. However, Vic isn’t looking for love either. In fact, because of his upbringing in a strict, white foster family, Vic’s not sure he believes in love. He’s in Stone Acres to open a branch office of a national brokerage firm. He also hopes to track down a vintage photo of what might be his Native American ancestor. After their paths cross, they become friends. Connected by their experiences as orphans raised by flawed fathers, Zeke and Vic wonder if their future could possibly hold love and family or if they are destined only to be lifelong friends.

Relative Best

Monique’s Bakery, unlike the Bottom, which is in the foothills, sits at the end of a strip shopping center outside Old Town. I don’t like Monique’s as much as the Bottom because, for me, it’s not relaxing. I see too many people who know me and want to chat when I try to eat there.


Still, it was fun to watch Vic’s eyes light up like most people’s did when we entered. First the smell of flour and sugar attacked, followed by the gentler aroma of the cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and other spices. Finally, the aroma of coffee and tea underscored the goodness that was Monique’s.


“Damn.” He took a huge breath and held it for a couple of seconds, letting it out slowly as if savoring the layers of smells. “Why weren’t we eating here before?”


“Why don’t you check out the desserts and I’ll get us a table?” I put a hand on his arm. “Just don’t stand in the to-go line.”


“Hey, Red! How’re you doing?” A couple of guys walked by, one patting me on the back.


Chapter 25