by Andrew Grey
Elliott closed his eyes and sat still. “I want to stay here. I want to see how things work out between us. There’s nothing in Pittsburgh for me any longer.” He opened his eyes and turned to Salvatore. “I want to have Thanksgiving here in this house with you and your mom and Buster. I want a life, a real one. And the stupid thing is that I want a life here with the people who had my back.”
Salvatore smiled. “Really?”
“Yes. I want you, but I don’t know if I have a right to ask.”
Salvatore closed the distance between them, placing his warm hands on Elliott’s cheeks. “You haven’t asked for anything that I don’t want for you. See, I want you here, and I want to know what a life without all the chasing and fear will be like.”
“But what if I’m too boring or…?” Elliott blinked. “These last few days—that isn’t my life. I read and I sit around watching television. I’m not really all this exciting, and I don’t want you to think you need to be my protector and all.”
“I’ve told you before that isn’t why. I fell in love with you through all that chasing. And think about it. Tonight, you were my protector. Hell, you were willing to try to stop a bullet for me.” Salvatore sighed. “Why don’t we agree to watch each other’s backs?” He leaned closer and kissed him. “I think you’re exactly who I’ve been looking for.”
Elliott hugged Salvatore and somehow ended up sitting on his lap. There were definitely some advantages to dating a big man. “Me too. I certainly didn’t expect to find someone to love when I left Pittsburgh.”
“I don’t think any of us intends to fall in love. I think, like with my mom and dad, that it just happens. Something changes in our lives and the right person is there.” Salvatore brushed the hair away from Elliott’s forehead. “There are times, I like to think, when life gives us things above and beyond anything that we ever expected. And for me, that’s you.” Salvatore’s voice broke a little, and Elliott nodded. “I love you, Elliott.”
Elliott hummed as he realized that the greatest things in life were those you never looked for. “I love you too, with all my heart.” He met Salvatore in a kiss as Buster barked, adding his own happiness to the occasion.
Epilogue
ELLIOTT HURRIED through the house that had been his home for over a year, with Buster right behind him. He needed to check that everything was just the way he wanted it.
“There’s no need to be nervous,” Salvatore said.
Elliott paused and laughed. That was true and he knew it. Josie was in the kitchen, cooking up a gourmet Thanksgiving feast, and Killinger, her husband of eight months, was helping. It seemed Killinger had many talents, including kitchen skills, and together he and Josie were having a ball.
“I just want everything to be nice.” Elliott checked the dining room for the millionth time, the large table spread as far as it would go to accommodate fourteen people.
“It is,” Salvatore said with a wide grin. “You’ve been planning this for days now, and it’s perfect. The table is beautiful, and Mom’s turkey is coming out perfect. These are our friends.”
Elliott knew that, but these people had done so much for him that he wanted to do something nice in return.
The doorbell rang, and he jumped. “They’re early. Can you get it? I need to put my shoes on.” He hurried off to their bedroom, with Buster following Salvatore to the door. Buster knew that anyone arriving meant pets and scratches, and his dog was definitely an attention slut.
Elliott put on his shoes and checked himself in the mirror before joining the others. Spook and Jeremy, along with Hank and Grant, stood chatting, and Elliott exchanged hugs with each of them. Harry and Tristan arrived as well. The doorbell rang once again, and Elliott opened the door for their friends Angus and Kevin, hugged them both, and took the offered bottle of wine.
Josie and Killinger joined them, and Elliott made introductions all around before Salvatore popped open a bottle of champagne and passed out glasses.
“Bull and Zach will be here in a few minutes, but we should definitely get the holiday spirit flowing.”
A timer went off in the kitchen, and Josie hurried away as the doorbell rang again. Elliott rushed over and pulled it open to Bull and Zach grinning, with Bull carrying a sleeping baby in a car seat. A boy, judging by the blue blanket. “This is a surprise,” Elliott said, stepping back to hold the door open. Bull came inside with the baby and Zach with a huge diaper bag.
“We got a call yesterday morning from a friend in Social Services,” Zach said as he set down the bag, and Elliott took their coats to hang them in the front closet. “Little Gregory needed a home, and I answered the phone.”
Elliott knelt down to look at the little sweetheart, his eyes closed, feet kicking a little under his blanket. “Is it a permanent placement?” he asked, completely enthralled. He watched the little one sleep and then lifted his gaze to Salvatore. “Someday?” he asked, and Salvatore smiled.
“Yes,” Josie answered from next to him. “Definitely yes.” She bumped Salvatore, who nodded.
“It can be permanent if we want it to be. His mother is very sick and will never be able to care for him even if she survives. She has already signed away her rights, so….” Zach carefully lifted Gregory out of the carrier and placed him on his shoulder. “I think I’m going to be Daddy and Bull is going to be Papa.” Zach snickered. “Papa Bull.”
Salvatore handed Zach and Bull a glass of bubbly as Josie signaled that she needed help. Elliott hurried to the kitchen, following her orders as he helped with final preparations and carried food to the table.
“Dinner is ready,” he said to the others, and they all came in to eat, little Gregory once again asleep in his carrier. Elliott put Salvatore at the end of the table with him to his right and Josie and Killinger across from him. The others took places as couples around the table. Elliott poured wine and refilled champagne glasses as needed before sitting once again, Salvatore taking his hand.
The house was filled with warmth. Slowly he surveyed the table as each couple took a moment to themselves. His friends were happy, and Elliott was over the moon.
Salvatore turned to him, his eyes gentle and soft, filled with love, and Elliott knew that no matter the twists and turns of the journey, they had all been worth it.
Salvatore lightly clinked his glass and lifted it without looking away. “To friends and our growing family, and everyone we’re thankful for.”
Elliott barely heard the clinks around the table as Salvatore kissed him.
More from Andrew Grey
Bronco’s Boys: Book One
Former mercenary Bull Krebbs now heads up security at his nightclub in Harrisburg, PA. Working the door night after night, he’s seen it all. Though tough on the outside, he’s a little hurt that people find him unapproachable. Then he pulls a cute twink out of line to perform a random search, and he’s surprised when the guy giggles and squirms.
Zach Spencer, graphic artist, twink, and seriously ticklish, isn’t intimidated by Bull. He’s in awe, and when Bull saves Zach from being trampled on the dance floor, Zach finds his inspiration for the superhero in his graphic novel.
Soon Zach wants more and makes his move by asking Bull on a date. Though small, he has a backbone of steel. He’ll need it—their happily ever after is thwarted at every turn, including by Bull’s interloping mother showing up unannounced and enemies from Bull’s past threatening to pull him to the other side of the world.
Sequel to Inside Out
Bronco’s Boys: Book Two
Lowell Cartwright’s life as a mercenary problem solver has taken its toll, and after one more difficult job, he wants out. For help, he turns to Bull, a soldier of fortune turned club owner—not exactly a friend, but the best chance Lowell has. He visits Bull’s club to scope it out and meets Jeremy Hodgson. The twink captures his attention in a big way. Bull tells Lowell to stay away from the club until he decides whether he can help, so Lowell stays in town. When he spots Jeremy passed out
on the floor of a convenience store, he goes to Jeremy’s aid.
Lowell piques Jeremy’s interest immediately, pushing all the right buttons. Then, when Jeremy needs help, Lowell’s kindness turns interest into something more.
But trouble comes knocking when Jeremy’s place is bugged. Maybe Lowell’s past is catching up to him, or maybe the danger centers on Jeremy’s roommate Tristan’s mysterious boyfriend. Whatever the source of the problem, the future Lowell and Jeremy hope for doesn’t stand a chance unless they can find a way to protect themselves.
Sequel to Upside Down
Bronco’s Boys: Book Three
Club owner Harry Klinger has had his eye on Tristan Martin for months, but never had the nerve to approach him. He’s watched as Tristan dated Eddie and then reluctantly sat on the sidelines during the emotional breakup when Tristan discovered Eddie was dealing drugs. Now that Tristan seems to be healing, Harry hopes to get his chance.
When Eddie sends his men into Harry’s club to harass Tristan, Harry steps in to help. Tristan is reluctant at first since he admittedly has terrible taste in men, but Harry seems genuine, and Tristan can’t help but think Harry’s sexy as well and begins to hope for happiness for both of them.
Unfortunately, Eddie isn’t behaving rationally, sampling too much of his own product. With his determination to take Tristan back, it’ll take more than Harry’s help to keep Tristan safe as Eddie ratchets up his attempts to get what he wants.
Sequel to Backward
Bronco’s Boys: Book Four
When it comes to love, Kevin Foster can’t seem to win. Some consider him a hero, but dousing an arsonist’s attempt to burn Bronco’s to the ground puts Kevin on the vengeful criminal’s radar. Afterward, the arsonist fixates on Kevin, determined to burn away every part of Kevin’s life.
Coming to Kevin’s rescue more than once, and in more ways than one, is “MacDreamy Hotness”—firefighter Angus MacTavish. Not only is Angus smitten at first sight, he learns Kevin’s nickname for him, intriguing him further.
When Angus discovers Kevin is the arsonist’s target, he takes it upon himself to protect him at any cost. Soon Kevin works his way into a heart Angus thought he’d closed off for good. Things heat up between them, but the arsonist has no intention of letting Kevin finally find happiness. Hopefully Angus and Kevin can stop him before he reduces everything Kevin values to ash—including the love igniting between him and Angus.
Sequel to Round and Round
Bronco’s Boys: Book Five
Opposites attract on an overseas holiday, but trouble has hitched a ride.
While Bronco’s nightclub is closed for renovations, the owners invite the staff on a trip to Italy. Bartender Hank needs a roommate, and he’s had his eye on waiter Grant for a while, even if he’s had to keep his distance. But sharing such close proximity means sparks are sure to fly….
Grant has a problem saying no, and it’s led him into some less-than-healthy relationships. While he’s determined not to repeat his mistakes, it’s clear Hank is different.
They’re both willing to take it slow and explore the feelings building between them, but even in a foreign country, their pasts are catching up, and that could hurt more than just their budding romance.
Readers love the Bronco’s Boys series by Andrew Grey
Inside Out
“I knew I had to read this as soon as I saw the cover, and I was not disappointed.”
—Hearts on Fire
Upside Down
“I loved this book.”
—It’s About The Book
Backward
“Backward is a well-crafted addition to this series… I do believe this is my favorite Andrew Grey series now…”
—The Novel Approach
Round and Round
“…this book offered mystery, romance, friendship and a great group of characters.”
—Inked Rainbow Reads
Over and Back
“Well done, Andrew Grey, for yet another love story that’s a little bit dark, a little bit angsty and a whole lot of fun to read.”
—Love Bytes
ANDREW GREY is the author of more than one hundred works of Contemporary Gay Romantic fiction. After twenty-seven years in corporate America, he has now settled down in Central Pennsylvania with his husband, Dominic, and his laptop. An interesting ménage. Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He is a recipient of the RWA Centennial Award, has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and now writes full-time. Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing). He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.andrewgreybooks.com
By Andrew Grey
Accompanied by a Waltz
All for You
Between Loathing and Love
Borrowed Heart
Buried Passions
Chasing the Dream
Crossing Divides
Dominant Chord
Dutch Treat
Eastern Cowboy
Heartward
In Search of a Story
New Tricks
Noble Intentions
North to the Future
One Good Deed
On Shaky Ground
The Playmaker
Pulling Strings
Rebound
Reunited
Running to You
Saving Faithless Creek
Shared Revelations
Survive and Conquer
Three Fates
To Have, Hold, and Let Go
Turning the Page
Twice Baked
Unfamiliar Waters
Whipped Cream
ART
Legal Artistry • Artistic Appeal
Artistic Pursuits • Legal Tender
BOTTLED UP
The Best Revenge • Bottled Up
Uncorked • An Unexpected Vintage
BRONCO’S BOYS
Inside Out • Upside Down
Backward • Round and Round
Over and Back • Above and Beyond
THE BULLRIDERS
A Wild Ride • A Daring Ride • A Courageous Ride
BY FIRE
Redemption by Fire • Strengthened by Fire
Burnished by Fire • Heat Under Fire
CARLISLE COPS
Fire and Water • Fire and Ice • Fire and Rain
Fire and Snow • Fire and Hail • Fire and Fog
CARLISLE DEPUTIES
Fire and Flint • Fire and Granite
Fire and Agate • Fire and Obsidian
Fire and Onyx
CHEMISTRY
Organic Chemistry • Biochemistry • Electrochemistry
Chemistry Anthology
DREAMSPUN DESIRES
The Lone Rancher
Poppy’s Secret
The Best Worst Honeymoon Ever
EYES OF LOVE
Eyes Only for Me • Eyes Only for You
FOREVER YOURS
Can’t Live Without You • Never Let You Go
GOOD FIGHT
The Good Fight • The Fight Within
The Fight for Identity • Takoda and Horse
HEARTS ENTWINED
Heart Unseen • Heart Unheard
Heart Untouched • Heart Unbroken
HOLIDAY STORIES
Copping a Sweetest Day Feel • Cruise for Christmas
A Lion in Tails • Mariah the Christmas Moose
A Present in Swaddling Clothes
Simple Gifts • Snowbound in Nowhere
Stardust • Sweet Anticipation
LAS VEGAS
ESCORTS
The Price • The Gift
LOVE MEANS…
Love Means… No Shame • Love Means… Courage
Love Means… No Boundaries • Love Means… Freedom
Love Means … No Fear • Love Means… Healing
Love Means… Family • Love Means… Renewal
Love Means… No Limits • Love Means… Patience
Love Means… Endurance
LOVE’S CHARTER
Setting the Hook • Ebb and Flow
PLANTING DREAMS
Planting His Dream • Growing His Dream
REKINDLED FLAME
Rekindled Flame • Cleansing Flame
Smoldering Flame
SENSES
Love Comes Silently • Love Comes in Darkness
Love Comes Home • Love Comes Around
Love Comes Unheard • Love Comes to Light
SEVEN DAYS
Seven Days • Unconditional Love
STORIES FROM THE RANGE
A Shared Range • A Troubled Range • An Unsettled Range
A Foreign Range • An Isolated Range
A Volatile Range • A Chaotic Range
STRANDED
Stranded • Taken
TALES FROM KANSAS
Dumped in Oz • Stuck in Oz • Trapped in Oz
TALES FROM ST. GILES
Taming the Beast • Redeeming the Stepbrother
TASTE OF LOVE
A Taste of Love • A Serving of Love
