It’s not easy being a gay man in Utah, but it’s even more difficult when you’re young and overweight. Jay has never fit in with the general “club culture” and he knows he’d never be attractive enough to catch a one-night stand, much less a boyfriend. Losing himself in books and school alleviates his loneliness, and he doesn’t waste time dreaming about what he can’t have. Until he meets the new director of the GLBT Center on campus and promptly falls in love -- against all common sense and logic.<br><br>Hoping to catch a few glimpses of Stephen outside of the Center, Jay decides to start working out at the university gym. The plan turns out to be too successful as Stephen volunteers to be his workout buddy, then invites Jay out to lunch, and finally, kisses him. Jay wants Stephen more than anything, but he can’t bring himself to trust Stephen’s intentions. Not when he knows he’s disgusting and Stephen is so perfect ...

From Behind that Locked Door

He excused himself after the fifth patient, and practically ran to the room where his daughter was learning to write in both English and the Monk’s language. With his mask still on, Cillian noticed that the teacher looked immediately concerned, doubly so when he took Henri out of the classroom.


“What’s going on?” the Monk asked.


“There’s an outbreak of pneumonia on the ship. For now, it’s best that humans remain in their cabins or risk catching it.”


“I wanna stay in school,” said Henri’s tiny voice.


He pulled her close. “I know, honey. But it’s not safe right now. You can watch some movies at home.” Though they left their cellphones behind, Jack brought a tablet, filled to the brim with Henri’s favorite movies and shows. She’d probably outgrow many of them during the trip, but at least it was something to keep her busy for the time being.


Chapter 12