webnovel

Pivot

After being robbed by a black assailant, white Chicago dentist Mark Cross is hesitant to go out at night, let alone get involved in an interracial relationship, but that’s exactly what happens after he meets Darren Nichols, a black high school teacher and basketball coach. When Mark and Darren are introduced at a party, their attraction to each other is immediate and intense, and they soon begin dating.<br><br>As their relationship progresses, Mark realizes he loves Darren. But he’s hesitant to ask Darren to move in with him because Darren’s last relationship ended poorly and Darren is scared to get involved with another man so quickly after that experience. Mark also worries he doesn’t live up to Darren’s expectations and fears Darren ultimately longs for a man who isn’t white. And Mark is still haunted by the man who mugged him and harbors fears about black men in general.<br><br>Despite his worries and insecurities, Mark asks Darren to move in with him and Darren agrees. Though they both bring baggage to their bond, Mark and Darren work hard to build a life together. But when Darren invites over some of the guys he plays basketball with, Mark suspects one of the players, Terrance, is the same man who assaulted him. Mark shares his suspicions with Darren, but Darren isn’t convinced his friend could do something so terrible.<br><br>Mark is determined to uncover the truth, but will he jeopardize his relationship with Darren in the process?

Kim Davis · LGBT+
Not enough ratings
48 Chs

Chapter 3

“Really? Good looking guys like you aren’t usually alone.”

I felt my face flush. “Thanks.” Being complimented on my appearance was certainly flattering. Turning forty a few months earlier and feeling that I looked my age or older had put a damper on my self-esteem. Even with a full head of mostly dark hair and a body that was in pretty good shape, I was no George Clooney and heads didn’t turn for me the way they used to.

“I’m surprised you’re not with someone,” Darren said.

“Well, I haven’t exactly been looking.”

“Why not?”

Apathy? Fear? Complacency? All of the above? “Sometimes it’s just easier to be alone,” I told him. “Sometimes.”