Brian Thompson is living a lie. A successful businessman, Brian can't stay focused in a real relationship and cheats on Timothy, his longtime lover. A phone call from his younger brother Joey, whom Brian hasn't spoken to in years, makes him recognize the uncanny resemblance between the two men.<br><br>Joey is, in a word, perfect. In Brian's eyes, he always has been. When their mother is hospitalized, Joey asks his older brother to come home. He tells Brian he needs him, which is just what Brian wants to hear. But the long trip north gives Brian plenty of time to think about his brother, and he comes to realize an unsettling truth -- he is in love with Joey.<br><br>Suddenly Brian admits that he wants Joey in ways he knows he shouldn't. Can he come to terms with the way he feels before his unrequited love threatens to tear him -- and his relationships with Timothy and Joey -- apart?

Between Brothers

&ldquo;For how long?&rdquo; he wants to know.


&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think that matters.&rdquo;


When the bartender places another glass in front of me, I reach for it and miss. I catch it on the second try, and swallow it down before it can get away. The alcohol buzzes through me like electricity, igniting my nerves even as it dulls my senses. I have to turn towards Paul to remember what he looks like. Oh yes, full red beard, black eyes, a faint dusting of fine hair combed over the top of his balding scalp. Younger than I imagined he was when he sat across the room. My age maybe, a few years older. &ldquo;Listen,&rdquo; I say, leaning against him. The hand on my thigh slips into my lap to cop a quick feel. With what I hope is an irresistible smile, I murmur, &ldquo;Like the song goes, I&rsquo;m just talking about tonight, you know what I&rsquo;m saying?&rdquo;


Chapter 20