Everyone hopes his road to happily ever after will be carefree and smooth, but too often hair-pin turns and detours seem to get in the way. Having thought he was on the road to forever before, former Silicon Valley programmer Dan Lassiter is leery about pedaling down it again. His elderly companion Charlie urges him to get to know Rick Reardon whose bakery is across the street from Dan’s bicycle shop. Under the watchful eye of Charlie, Dan and Rick take tentative steps toward each other, all the while trying to avoid potholes such as exes, homophobes, and family problems. As summer turns to fall and then winter, they hope that the road will be smooth going from their first date and first kiss to having what Rick’s sister euphemistically calls their “sleepovers.” At each step, though, they are tripped up and wonder why there seem to be so many bumps in their road. Maybe Dan and Rick should heed some of Charlie’s sage advice, or maybe they should listen to their hearts instead of the ghosts from their pasts.

Heart of the Holidays

Finally, after much shouting and finger pointing and general mayhem, a couple of cops showed up, handcuffed Gordon, and dragged him out the front door. He was still screaming how sorry he was and how he wanted Rick back.


Andreas said our paella would be out shortly and turned back toward the kitchen. I caught his sleeve before he could take a step away.


“Look, I know this isn’t a doggy bag kind of place. But I think Rick and I need to get out of here. I’m sure your food is great and all, but we can’t stay.”


Rick was staring out the window again, but he nodded slightly.


“I completely understand. Wait for me at the entrance.” Andreas bustled away.


I looked at Rick and sighed. I mean, what could I say? This hadn’t been anyone’s idea of a perfect first date.


“I’m guessing that was your ex.” I didn’t mean it as a joke, but more as an ice breaker so he’d start talking to me.


But I giggled. Then laughed. Then guffawed. Tears were streaking down my face, and I needed my hankie back.


Chapter 9