Chapter 2

“I’m only doing this to shut you up, stop you worrying.”

Speaking quietly, so no one passing outside in the hallway would hear, Bill said, “I worry because I love you. So fucking much.”

Rusty turned to face Bill, his glower softening, and mouthed, “Love you, too.”

That was it, Bill had to kiss his man. But no sooner had he got to his feet and leaned over the bed than the curtains parted and a nurse pushing a cart entered. Thinking quickly, Bill straightened Rusty’s blanket before backing away and starting to sit. Then his southern manners kicked in and he straightened up again.

“Ma’am.” Bill’s right hand automatically reached up to touch the brim of his hat. Too late he realized he’d taken the hat off and put it on the foot of Rusty’s bed.

Rusty snickered and Bill shot him a look. Rusty had often teased Bill about how unsettled he became around women.

The middle-aged nurse closed the curtain. “Good morning, gentleman. I just need to take a few measurements, Mr. Redfern.”