Chosen by a former Olympic swimmer to train for the 2016 Games as a pre-teen, Reed’s journey begins. Along the way, he develops feelings for two childhood friends: neighbor Cal and lifelong rival Mathias. Cal’s struggle with his sexuality brings tragedy. Mathias’s wealth makes Reed feel as if they’re from different worlds.<br><br>As Rio approaches, Mathias becomes a gay sports icon, while Reed must hide his sexuality for a lucrative endorsement deal important to his family’s future. Reed’s unresolved desires for both men remain, and so do the things that have kept them apart. Has Reed grown enough to navigate rougher waters, to find truth, pride, victory, and love?

Truth, Pride, Victory, Love

“Oh. I don’t know,” I said after a moment. “I think he can do both.”


Cloud-ia was probably throwing shit at the monitor if she was watching. The interview sessions were broadcast within the arena on several Jumbotrons and also TVs backstage. Suddenly picturing my hommelyface on a monitor the size of a drive-in movie screen did nothing to calm my anxiousness.


“I think I’m where I’ve always been. Obviously, I need to be a little better with the real superstars in the mix now.”


“If you don’t improve by tomorrow, it’s unlikely you will even make the team.”


Wait.I sat up straighter. That wasn’t true, was it? I knew he hadn’t been coming in second, because I had once or twice, to my new arch-nemesis, the four-time Olympic wannabe. There were only so many spots available for each event. Had I been in denial? I definitely didn’t want to think about going to Rio without Mathias.


Chapter 112