GENRE: Gay Spicy Romance
LENGTH: 14,223 words
RATING:

On meeting Dr. Jayson Barrett at a wine and food matching, Armand Masson is immediately drawn to him. Both men are looking for more than something casual and their relationship grows slowly.

When Armand thinks Jayson has been unfaithful, his heart is shattered. Is Jayson's skill up to mending a broken heart?

EXCERPT:
Note: may contain sexually explicit scenes of a homoerotic nature.

Looking back toward the now empty serving hatch, Jayson tried to keep Quin's words to mind. He really shouldn't judge others based on Brant. It wasn't fair and as a doctor he knew well enough how individual people were. However, since the blond had vanished, Jayson put the reaction from his mind ready to settle and enjoy the afternoon.

His eyes widened as the blond came out from the kitchen and took the microphone, tapping it gently, before smiling at his audience. This close, Jayson could see the slight downward curve to the left of the blond's mouth, the small imperfection only making him more attractive. He'd pulled the top section of his hair back into a ponytail, but the lower section was loose. It was a good look for him.

"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to The Brasserie's champagne and food matching lunch. My name is Armand, Armand Masson. My family originates from France, but we've been here in New Zealand for three generations now. It's my pleasure to talk to you about the wines you'll taste today."

His voice was strong and clear, and very much to Jayson's liking. As Armand spoke, the serving staff brought round the first dish. Jayson was presented with a shot glass of gazpacho in which stood a single, tail-on grilled prawn. The dish was accompanied by smoked salmon and some aged cheddar cheese crisps. The food was paired with Moet Rose Imperial and on tasting the food, Jayson immediately thought this was a dish he'd try at home.

When people had finished eating, Armand came back to speak about the champagne and what other pairings would be good with the wine. The rest of Armand's words dissolved into a haze for Jayson. Normally he'd be hooked on the speaker's every word, but today he was more hooked on Armand's voice, his athletic build, and the gorgeous rounded arse that his black dress pants displayed so beautifully as the young man walked around his audience.

"Yes he's gay and yes he's available."

Quin's dry tones drew Jayson out of his reverie. He stared at his friend. "And you know this, how?"

"He's just your type. When I was organising the booking, I asked Rebecca. She's the co-owner of the place. I said I thought I knew him, but didn't want to cause any embarrassment if I was wrong. The dear girl was very helpful."

Glaring at Quin from beneath his brows, Jayson pursed his lips. "Are you trying to matchmake?"

Quin's eyebrows shot upward and he laid a hand on his chest. "What? Me? Perish the thought. Oh goodie, next champagne."

"Are you enjoying it, sir?" The blond, no Armand, smiled down at Jayson as he poured the next wine into Jayson's flute.

"Um, ah. Yes. Very much." Jayson felt the heat of the blush that burned his cheeks, but Armand just inclined his head and then filled Quin's glass.

"And you, sir?"

"My name's Quin and this is Jayson, a friend. He's very taken with you. Your knowledge that is." Quin winked, and this time Armand blushed, and stole a quick glance at Jayson. It could have been wishful thinking, but Jayson thought he saw a distinct flash of interest in those gorgeous green eyes.

"It's good to meet you. Both." He turned quickly back to Quin who smirked and nodded benevolently.

As Armand moved on to the next table, Jayson poked a finger into Quin's forearm. "Just what do you think you're doing?"

"Well let's be honest, love, you wouldn't speak up. I thought I'd just lend a hand. If he wasn't interested, we'd know. By the time we leave here, I fully expect you and him to have a date planned."

"What?" Only years of experience ensured Jayson's voice remained a hoarse whisper.

"Oh, come on. He's as taken with you as you are with him. I have no idea when you could next be here, so I want to see you make a date with him before we go."