About Not Sir

by Syd McGinley
12 pages / 4150 words
Available file types - html, lit, pdf, prc

Ryan is pretty hot for Hugh, but he's been burned in his love life, so he's not sure how to approach the man, even though they play on the same team. When Hugh announces he's quitting the team, though, Ryan knows he has to go after the man, and try to get the big guy to see him for the eager sub he is. Will Hugh let Ryan off the bench? Previously published in the Put Some English on It Taste Test.

Sample

The object of my lust watches us practice. He hangs out with our coach’s Canadian husband, and Roger’s puppy-loyal so I know nothing’s happening. They just like rugby.

“Ryan, he’s Roger’s second cousin. Now, concentrate!” Pete’s an amiable coach. It takes a lot to provoke rebukes, but I must be obvious.

Next week, he joins the pre-practice Frisbee game we play to warm up. He’s fast for such a huge man. He’s quiet at the after-practice drink, but, when Pete asks, he makes smart strategy comments. His accent’s different than Rog’s, but he’s not American.

I’m already smitten, and blurt out, “Join the team!”

He rubs the bridge of his nose. “No.”

His abrupt answer shuts me down. Roger knows how shy I am and he jogs my elbow. “Don’t take on Ryan, Hugh’s never been a joiner.”

“But he’d be good. He’s got the build. He’s fast and can catch.”

“He is good. He was a tighthead and captain in college.”

“So what’s his problem? Is he straight?”

“No, I’m not.”

My voice had gotten louder the more annoyed I got, and Hugh is glowering at me. He nods at Roger. “I’m off.”

Rog reassures me that Hugh’s not mad. He’s always gruff.

Pete frowns though. “Ryan, I’m the coach. Please don’t recruit players for me.” But he’s not really mad either. Pete and Roger leave soon, and I persist with Andy and Kerry about getting Hugh to join.

“Why bother?” Andy says. “Others actually want to play.”

“You’re just horny for him.” Kerry can talk. He almost drools on Andy.

“Let’s show him a team can be cool,” I say knowing how lame I sound.

“Hot,” says Andy mechanically as he leaves.