Drunk On a Kiss: The Chance Encounters Series, #48

By Monica Moss

A closeted guy, Will "William" Holden,  has a massive crush on his best friend, Peter Delgado, who's straight and a player. When Peter opts to be Will's plus one at a family wedding, things take a turn when both accidentally end up having a drunk shag with each other that night. The next day Will and Peter, who both remember their hot night of banging they had, talk about what happened and Peter makes it clear he doesn't swing that way and that they should just forget about it as if it never existed. Heartbroken Will has no choice but to play along. But the more time they spend together the more Peter can't deny that he's falling for Will too. But Peter is straight, right?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Short and Sweet Publishing
• Release date: Feb 18, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224302529

Monica Moss

Monica Moss is a short contemporary romance author. She's always loved short stories and flash fiction. She writes romance flash fiction about chance encounters, love enduring prejudice, and taking the leap of faith for the love you deserve. 

Book preview

WILL

The soft glow of the evening sun bathed the cityscape as I walked into my apartment, tired after a long day of animating characters and bringing them to life. My name is William Will Holden, a 26-year-old 3D animator with a slim build and warm, expressive blue eyes that often betray the tumult of emotions within me. My slightly taller-than-average height is complemented by a crown of curly red hair, and though I navigate the world with a confident exterior, inside, I grapple with secrets that threaten to shatter the delicate balance I've maintained.

I have a passion for art and design, indulging in sketching, painting, and exploring various forms of artistic expression. An avid reader with a soft spot for classic literature, I find solace in the worlds created by words. Beyond the artistic realm, I am a foodie, always experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, finding joy in the creation of culinary delights.

Growing up in a supportive and open-minded family, one might assume that being true to myself would come easily. But my fear of judgment and societal expectations has led me to keep my sexuality a secret. I discovered my attraction to men during my teenage years, yet struggled to accept myself fully, perpetually haunted by the fear of rejection and the potential strain it might put on my relationships.

Especially when it came to my best friend, Peter Delgado. Peter and I became inseparable during our college years, our friendship deepening as we navigated shared classes and interests. We supported each other through personal challenges, creating a strong and trusting connection. However, behind the laughter and camaraderie, I harbored a secret crush on Peter that I dare not reveal, afraid it would jeopardize the foundation of our friendship.

I dated casually, hoping to find a connection strong enough to surpass the boundaries of friendship, but my heart always gravitated back to Peter. The fear of judgment and the potential fallout from coming out to my family paralyzed me, making it impossible to express my true identity. I aspire to establish myself as a successful animator, working for one of the big studios, but the hidden desire remains—a longing to find a loving and accepting relationship where I can openly be myself. A secret hope that it might be with Peter.

Yet, I'm just so afraid of losing him, both romantically and platonically. Worried about the challenges we might face as a couple and the potential fallout from coming out to my family. Not that he's actually interested in me or will ever be. The fear of rejection and judgment echoes loudly, drowning out the desire for authenticity that resides deep within me. And so, as the sun sets on another day, I grapple with the shadows of my own secrets, wondering if the day will ever come when I can be true to myself, even if it means risking everything.

PETER

The city lights glittered below as I stepped into my apartment, the day's fatigue hanging on my shoulders. I'm Peter Delgado, 27 years old, working as a bodyguard. Physically, I carry a fit and athletic build, short blonde hair, and piercing blue eyes that often reflect a carefree exterior. My style oscillates between casual and polished, favoring button-down shirts and well-fitted jeans when I'm not on duty.

I'm a sports enthusiast, finding joy in soccer and basketball, but I also appreciate the tranquility of outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Cooking is a passion I indulge in whenever I get the chance, experimenting with new recipes to add a dash of flavor to my life. Besides, I coach a kids' soccer team on the side, showing a side of me that surprises many. I love reading, sharing this interest with my best friend, Will, who's always been loyal and honest. It's this genuine connection that makes Will the person I'm closest to.

Will and I are like night and day. He's the shy, reserved type, and I'm... well, not. My dating history paints a picture of a player, known for short-term, casual relationships. Despite the facade, the expectations placed on me by my conservative family and society have always been a weight on my shoulders.

Coming from a background that values traditional gender roles, I've felt the pressure to conform to societal expectations. And then there's the issue of my sexuality. I'm afraid to let anyone, especially my family, know about my doubts and fears in that department. The fear of disappointing my loved ones and facing potential judgment