I'll Stand By You — Carol Lynne

Book one in the Brookside Athletic Club Series

Sometimes, the best thing you can do for a friend is love them.

Trying to get away from a man he loves but can't have, Mike Shriver takes a temporary assignment in Kansas City. When the construction company he owns with his brothers is contracted to build an exclusive athletic club in the gay-friendly neighbourhood of Brookside, Mike has no idea his life is about to get more complicated.

Mike knew he liked Ray DeMonico after their initial meeting. Unfortunately, like the man Mike had left behind, Ray was already in love, with long-term partner Brent Atwood.

Lonely, Mike decides to check out one of the local gay bars. While having a drink and enjoying the view, he spots Brent in the crowd. With one look, he becomes aware of Brent's dark secret. Suddenly, Mike is caught between trying to protect Ray and telling him the truth.

In a matter of weeks, Ray's world begins to crumble. Mike stands by Ray, determined to fight for the man he loves, but Brent's continued threats throw both men into a situation they're not sure they can win.