A Match Made In Heaven: The Chance Encounters Series, #53

By Monica Moss

A straight guy, Julian, gets forced to take part in a matchmaking gala by his overbearing mother only for his straight best friend, Wyatt, to outbid every girl who tries to go on a date with him. Forced to go on a date together, he thinks they'll just have a guys' night. But Wyatt is adamant about going on an actual date. But everything will go back to normal, right? Well, not if you sleep with your best friend. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Short and Sweet Publishing
• Release date: Feb 29, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224028764

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

JULIAN

The soft glow of the computer screen illuminated my face as lines of code danced across it. The rhythmic tapping of the keyboard echoed in the otherwise quiet room. My name’s Julian Alexander Thompson. I was a 28-year-old software developer navigating the intricate world of binary and algorithms, finding solace in the structured simplicity of code.

My appearance was unremarkable, befitting my chosen career path. Average height, lean build, with dark brown hair that often fell into an unkempt but controlled mess and a well kept beard. Blue eyes, like the bluest sky, hinted at a warmth that was occasionally betrayed by a hesitant smile. My fashion choices leaned toward comfort, a blend of casual and sophisticated, mirroring my pragmatic approach to life.

In the world of software development, I thrived, known for my innovative solutions and dedication to my work. Yet, my personal life remained a separate entity, carefully shielded from the complexities of my professional successes. I cherished my solitude, finding comfort in the silence of my apartment, surrounded by books and the melody of my piano.

I was inherently introverted, thoughtful in my actions, and fiercely loyal to those I held dear. Among them was Wyatt, my steadfast companion since high school. He and I, an unlikely pair, bonded over shared interests and an unspoken understanding that transcended words. His presence had been a constant source of support during the twists and turns of life.

Wyatt, my best friend, was the polar opposite – outgoing, adventurous, and always eager to push me out of my comfort zone. Our friendship was the sanctuary where I could be myself, free from the expectations that loomed over my life like a persistent shadow.

Growing up in a conservative household, conforming to societal expectations was paramount. My parents, especially my mother, emphasized the importance of following traditional norms. My past relationships with women were fleeting, mere attempts to appease my family's expectations. I had never delved into anything serious, avoiding the confrontation of my own sexuality.

A pivotal moment in high school had etched a profound fear in my heart. A close friend faced severe consequences after coming out, and the repercussions rippled through our tight-knit community. Terrified of disappointing my family and facing potential discrimination, I chose to suppress my true self.

Professionally, I aspired to climb the ranks, becoming a lead developer working on projects that made a positive impact. Personally, my goals were simpler – to live authentically and build a loving relationship. Yet, the fear of alienation from my family and the uncertainty of acceptance haunted my every step, creating a constant undercurrent of anxiety.

And then there was Wyatt, my confidant, my ally in a world where authenticity felt like an unattainable luxury. Little did I know that a seemingly ordinary event would unravel the delicate balance I had meticulously maintained.

WYATT

The city buzzed with life as I navigated my way through the crowded streets. Wyatt Thomas Parker, that’s my name. I was a 29-year-old marketing specialist who thrived on the vibrant energy of the urban jungle. Tall and built with a touch of muscle, I carried myself with a certain confidence that stemmed from a life spent embracing individuality.

My appearance matched my personality – short red hair, piercing blue eyes that held a hint of mischief, freckles, and a laid-back style with a dash of edginess. Leather jackets and graphic tees were my wardrobe staples, a reflection of the rebellious spirit that defined me. I reveled in my uniqueness, unapologetically standing out in a world that often demanded conformity.

In the realm of marketing, I found my creative outlet. Wyatt Thomas Parker, the guy who could sell you anything with a smile and a few well-chosen words. My job allowed me to express my artistic side, collaborating with diverse teams to bring ideas to life. But amidst the chaos of campaigns and meetings, there was one constant – my unwavering loyalty to Julian.

Julian Alexander Thompson, my best friend since high school. Our friendship had weathered the storms of adolescence, and we emerged stronger, bound by shared passions and an unspoken understanding. I'd always been the outgoing one, the guy with the guitar who could make you laugh and feel at ease. Julian, on the other hand, found solace in the quiet hum of his coding world, a sanctuary I respected and cherished.

Our friendship was a testament to the unlikely bonds that formed in the most unexpected places. We had our differences, but they were the threads that wove us together. I knew Julian better than anyone, including the internal struggles he kept hidden from the world. His fears, his aspirations – they were etched in the lines of his face, the subtle hesitations in his conversations.

Despite our differences, or perhaps because of them, we complemented each other. I'd had my share of relationships, each a fleeting attempt at finding someone who matched the connection I shared with Julian. But none came close. Wyatt and Julian – an inseparable duo, navigating life's complexities side by side.

I had a secret, one that I guarded with the utmost care. A crush that lingered beneath the surface, an unspoken truth that added layers to our friendship. I knew about Julian's struggles with his identity, his fear of disappointing his family, and the weight of societal expectations. I was patient, waiting for him to come to terms with himself, all the while yearning for a chance to be more than just the supportive friend.

High school had taught me the consequences of being open about one's sexuality. A close friend faced judgment and rejection, and I made a silent vow to protect my truth until the world was ready to accept it. So, I kept my feelings for Julian buried deep, focusing on being the friend he needed – the confidant who understood him, the ally in a world that demanded conformity.

As I strolled through the city, the echoes of our laughter from countless shared moments reverberated in my mind. Despite the confidence that defined me, there was a vulnerability that only Julian could unravel. The fear of losing him, of potential rejection, gnawed at the edges of my thoughts. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, my heart beat with the hope that one day, he might see me as more than just a friend.

JULIAN

My mother's insistence on me attending the matchmaking gala hung in the air like an uninvited guest, stubborn and unyielding. I found myself reluctantly dragged into a world of orchestrated connections and forced smiles. It was a scenario straight out of one of those romantic comedies I secretly enjoyed but