Quiad

Name: Quiad
Author: Aja Foxx

76 pages

~ Quiad ~
I am a quiet carpenter living a solitary life in the small town of McKenzie River, where I work alongside my brother Knox and reside above our shop. Haunted by nightmares from my past military service, I fiercely protect my family. My world shifts when Floyd and Ransom bring Levi Hardesty, a 17-year-old foster kid, to the farm. Beyond Levi’s sarcasm, I see the beauty he hides and sense his attraction to me, especially after discovering hand-drawn pictures of myself in his sketchpad. Though I feel a strong connection, I wait until Levi turns 19 to make my move, ensuring there’s no hint of impropriety. On Levi’s birthday, I plan a special surprise to claim him as my own.

~ Levi ~
I have spent my life fearing abandonment. After my biological mother left, I bounced between homes with my father until landing with Vivian, a homophobic stepmother. When my father died, Vivian brought me to McKenzie River to try to win back her ex-husband, using me as leverage. Instead, the McKenzies embraced me as family, providing the only real home I’ve ever known. Terrified of being kicked out once I turn eighteen, I ask Ma if I have to leave. She reassures me that I can stay as long as I need. A year later, feeling more secure but still afraid of rejection, I hope to explore my feelings for Quiad McKenzie, the sexiest man I’ve ever seen.

Life has a habit of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. When my mother, who abandoned me when I was six, shows up in town claiming to be terminally ill, my heart aches with confusion. I’ve always longed for her acceptance, but something feels off this time. Perhaps it’s the love and unconditional support I’ve received from the McKenzie family that makes me question her motives. All I know is that I want her gone, but she refuses to leave.

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