Awkward Silence

By J. Aquino

ALEX

Do you like puzzles?
I used to. Until one was tattooed across my skin-literally.

I'm Alexander Jarrell, 31, single dad, fashion model, and walking canvas for an ex-girlfriend who vanished the day after her art was inked on my body. Meera left me with a young daughter, a series of puzzle-piece tattoos... and zero answers. Eight years later, I'm still haunted by a missing link-and one piece that never made sense.

Then I walk into Bourbon Bar and meet Elijah Garcia-rich, gorgeous, and gay. One look into those dark eyes, and I'm done. Straight? Not anymore. He's completely impossible to resist. But what I don't know is that Elijah is married. That his husband is watching me. And that our daughters are best friends.

Oh-and someone in that house holds the missing puzzle piece I've been searching for.

ELIJAH

Do I like puzzles?
No. But I'm dangerously interested in the man who's covered in one.

I'm Elijah Garcia, 42, father, entrepreneur, and owner of Bourbon Bar. And yes-I'm married. It's complicated.

When Alex walks into my life, I'm drawn to him instantly. He's beautiful... all shy smiles and witty charm. He's also straight-but not for long. One night turns into something more, and I can't stay away. Neither can my husband, apparently.

Maybe it's the tattoos.
Maybe it's fate.
But something about Alex feels familiar... and I should've paid closer attention.

Because this puzzle? It unravels more than it reveals.
And it's about to tear everything apart.

MM romance where mystery meets desire-layered in temptation, buried lies, found family, emotional heat, and unapologetic spice. This is Book One in a gripping, two-part journey.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0G3RRCS7S
• ISBN13: 9798272647276
• Release Date: November 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 314 Pages
• Weight: 0.72 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.3" x 8.0"