Gio’s Dream
Ellora’s Cave
ISBN 9781419910524
Genre: Contemporary; M/M
Book Length: Novel
Release Date: April 23, 2008
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For advertising executive Giovanni Brunelli, moving back to his hometown was the right thing to do. His father’s heart surgery and the need for a slower life pulled Gio from the high rises of Manhattan. Now in Kansas City, Gio sets out to help his father save a dying downtown business. With a determination to make a difference, Gio rolls up his sleeves to help the sporting goods store. There’s only one problem. How is he supposed to work with his dad’s business partner and best friend? After years of dreaming, Gio’s ready to start doing. But how do you tell your father’s best friend you’re in love with him?
Note for Readers: You must be over eighteen to read this excerpt.
“We need to discuss some lifestyle changes for your father. Even though the surgery went well, he’s going to have to make some changes in his daily work habits. It seems the stress of running the store and worrying about finances is elevating his blood pressure quite a bit. I don’t know what can be done, but it’s something for the two of you to talk over as a family.”
Gio nodded his head. “I’m moving back to the area to help Dad and his partner out at the store. Hopefully, we can come up with a compromise that can ease his stress level.”
Dr. Anderson shook their hands and promised to stop by Nino’s room later that day. After he left, Gio turned to Sophie, “I’m going to call Rafe and let him know Dad made it through just fine.”
Kissing his cheek, Sophie smiled at him. “You do that, big brother. I’m going to call Mark and check on the rug rats.” Sophie had three kids under the age of five. Nathan—Nate—would be five in another month, then Michael—Mic—was three and the baby Emily—Emmy—was nine months old.
Gio walked outside the hospital to use his cell phone. He punched in the number his sister had given him. Waiting for Rafe to pick up, Gio’s stomach started doing flip-flops.
Rafe answered on the third ring. “Hello.”
Oh man, Rafe’s voice still got to him. “Hi, Rafe. It’s Gio.”
“Hey, Gio. How’s he doin’?”
Gio swallowed, “Good. Real good. The doctor said he’d be back in his room in a couple of hours.”
“Excellent. I’ll be by when my evening manager gets here to take over.” There was a pause in the conversation. “Will…uh… you still be there around five thirty?”
Sweat started to break out on Gio’s forehead. “Yeah. I’ll still be around. See ya then, Rafe.”
“Okay. See you later.”
It was twenty after five when Rafe walked through the door. Nino was taking a nap, so Gio put his finger to his lips and pointed to the hall. The two men walked out so they could speak.
Rafe embraced Gio in a friendly greeting. “How’s he doin’?”
The hug lasted a little longer than was necessary, but Gio didn’t want to let go. Damn, the man felt good in his arms.