After a lifetime of devotion, Ben Thornton tries to focus on gold at the 2012 London Olympics. Unfortunately, a British tabloid reporter sets his sights on outing a famous athlete, namely Ben, who is just now accepting his sexual identity himself.<br><br>Meanwhile, someone crushing on Ben reveals himself via a mysterious love note. Is best friend and teammate Richie Stoker the one, or maybe Richie’s twin brother, Adam? Team members Steven, Vijra, or Cory could have authored it. Then, there’s Ben’s ex; the exe’s sibling; friend with occasional benefits, Booger Fisher; and also Ukrainian weightlifter Iggy, who follows Ben around the Olympic Village. It could also be a trick perpetrated by the gossipmonger, Ben fears.<br><br>Will the pressure of the media circus interfere with Ben’s competitions, or will Ben leave London with gold and the man of his dreams?

Double Flip

As the team headed out the locker room door, Ben, last in line, was stopped by an arm across his chest. “Not you.”


“Why?” His voice broke. He actually started to shake. “Am I…Am I off the team?” 21


He paced back and forth in the training venue. It hurt him so much not being in that team locker room with Ben. Whatever was happening, Ben was going to need someone’s arms at the end of it, and with adoration and maybe a little bit of jealousy, he didn’t want those arms to be anyone’s but his. 22


When Coach said nothing, Ben turned and headed back for his bag.


“Did I tell you to walk away, Thornton?”


Ben took a shaky breath, but he didn’t dare turn around. No way was he going to let Coach Strong see tears of frustration. Happiness? Yes. Grief? Sure. Not for this shit. “No, sir.”


After wiping his eyes and nose on the hem of his shirt, he did.


“You don’t.” Ben shook his head. “I owe you one, Coach.”


Chapter 20