Kyle Swansie loves his hometown of Landry’s Fall. An extrovert who loves talking with people, managing and serving at his family’s diner is the highlight of his day. Even when he has to deal with the occasional cranky patron. When a stranger cops an attitude, Kyle doesn’t hesitate to put the beautiful man in his place. But Xavier Ormsby is so much more than Kyle’s first impression and it doesn’t take long for the two men to find common ground. Neither Kyle nor Xavier expected to find a connection.<br><br>Xavier might be in Landry’s Fall on a forced vacation of sorts, their time together quickly moves from friends to more. Xavier is everything Kyle never realized he wanted. Kyle provides a light Xavier didn’t know he needed. Though their worlds are very different, there’s no denying the depth of their attraction. With each day that passes, both Kyle and Xavier start looking to a future.<br><br>Things that should be obstacles -- their age gap, Xavier’s diabetes, the financial disparity -- simply aren’t. But it’s still not easy to find a way to fit their lives together. With their love on the line, can they find a way to have their happily ever after?

Garrett Corrigan loves the holiday season. All the trappings, the lights, the festive spirit. But as the holiday cards start to arrive, it’s hard to see all the happy families and smiling faces. At thirty-eight, he thought he’d be sending those out himself, but instead, he’s alone. Again.<br><br>To make matters worse, his family has the tradition of taking photos in Christmas pajamas. The group photo isn’t bad, but when he has to stand by himself in pajamas that match no one else’s, he can’t help the sadness. Garret is made to be a partner, but he hasn’t yet found the person who will want to stay.<br><br>But then there’s Mason Mills. Garrett would have never asked his friend to pose as his boyfriend, but Mason has a different proposal. The attraction between them has always simmered in the background, and Mason take the opportunity to make his move. They agree to date for the holiday and see where things go. Garrett is shocked to learn that Mason long ago figured out that Garrett is submissive in the bedroom, and Mason pushes every one of his buttons. The move from friends to lovers, and Dom and sub, works so well, Garrett wishes they’d pursued something sooner.<br><br>The only sticking point is Garrett’s mother’s attitude, and Garrett’s anxiety keeps him from sharing all his thoughts. Mason is determined to show Garrett that nothing will come between them. With Mason’s unwavering support, this just might be Garrett’s best Christmas yet.

Sequel to <i>The 12th Witch</i><br><br>Justin Trews lucked out when he found Cole Demauro and the coven he’s joined. He’s still working through his trauma, but he now knows what it’s like to be supported and cared for. His magic is thriving, and so is he. And of course, dating Cole has proven to be the best part. The past three months have been the happiest of his life.<br><br>When the veil is the thinnest, Justin experiences Samhain as it is meant to be. It’s a far cry from how he celebrated in the past. With the coven gathered, he participates in the ritual to honor the dead and the end of the harvest season. His magic is full and so is his heart.<br><br>But when Justin’s past rears it’s ugly head, he’s faced with dealing with his family. Old hurts run deep and insecurities resurface. Its hard not to feel like a burden and an imposition. With his coven behind him, and Cole’s love buoying him up, Justin finds the strength not only to confront his family but to rely on his coven for help. And when the dust settles, Justin has taken great strides toward healing. Now Justin needs to show Cole just how much he loves him.

Cole Demauro is the de facto leader of his coven and he takes that responsibility seriously. But the coven is one member short and finding a witch to fill the spot has proven difficult. It’s not easy to find a person who not only has magic that resonates with the coven, but also fits in. But there’s no doubt the coven needs another witch to bolster everyone’s magic. After all, covens work best with twelve witches.<br><br>Enter Justin Trews.<br><br>New to the area and reluctant to join a coven, Justin’s been managing on his own. But it’s no longer enough. When they meet for the first time, Justin’s magic is a mess, and Cole is determined to help. Not only is the beautiful man clearly suffering, but Cole is the type to want to fix it. His attraction to Justin only increases that need. But what neither man expects is how well their magic fits together.<br><br>Justin is cautious, but Cole is nothing if not patient. He works to coax Justin out of his shell and persistently shows Justin there’s nothing to fear. When Justin agrees to take the risk, everything falls into place. Justin is a perfect fit for the coven. More than that, he’s the perfect fit for Cole.

Ethan MacGowan has been not-so-patiently waiting for his mate to find him. The heart-shaped mark on his neck is not just a birthmark, but an <i>Anam Cara</i>, a sign he’s destined for a supernatural being. At thirty-three, he hasn’t given up, but he is frustrated by waiting. Until a regular night out puts him face to face with a vampire that makes his blood sing.<br><br>Avriel has spent a century on this earth, skulking in shadows. Until he met his mate thirty years ago, and gave up illegal activities for a more sedate life. Being mated to a wolf shifter isn’t anything like he expected, but Avi is happier than he’s ever been. Meeting Ethan at a club, and knowing the man is supposed to be his, sends Avi’s world into a tailspin. How can he be so drawn to Ethan when he has Cash at home?<br><br>Cash Turner never expected to mate a vampire. He certainly never expected his mate to come home distraught because Avi feels the mate pull with someone else. Ever the alpha, peacemaker, and fixer, Cash remains calm. When he meets Ethan for the first time, Cash understands what’s going on.<br><br>Cash and Avi were never meant to be just two. Ethan was always destined to join them. But navigating a relationship between three people is never easy, no matter that Fate has decreed it. If they work together, and make sure everyone’s needs are met, will it be enough to cement a happily ever after?

Sequel to <i>Accepting Submission</i><br><br>Asher and Trey have enjoyed two years of mated bliss. It’s still not easy for Asher to ask for what he needs, but he’s accepted his submissive nature and trusts Trey to dominate him. But with the growing pack and the holidays approaching, Asher finds himself losing touch with his Dom.<br><br>In a desperate attempt to gain his mates attention, Asher acts out of character and breaks the rules. He knows it’s the fastest way to get Trey to focus on him. Asher doesn’t want to be selfish, but he knows that their dynamic is important to them both. Being naughty works like a charm. Can these two men finally have the conversation they need to have? And will it be enough to save their love?

Mark Winston is mostly content with his life. He has a home, a job he loves, and a sister who always has his back. So what if the one thing he’s missing is a person to share that life with? Experience has proved he can’t get what he wants and needs out of a relationship. Yet he can’t stop wanting his next door neighbor and wishing there could be more between them.<br><br>Dylan Pomeroy might be young, but knows what he wants: Mark. He continually inserts himself into the older man’s life, determined to show Mark that he’s exactly what Mark needs. But Mark worries that the difference in their ages, and his need to be cared for, are hurdles too big to overcome.<br><br>But Dylan won’t be deterred, and Mark begins to realize his worries are unfounded. Dylan shows Mark he’s the perfect man for him. But years of being rejected for his wants makes it difficult for Mark to hope that things between them will work out. Can Mark let go of his insecurities and let himself fall in love with Dylan?

All four stories Kris T. Bethke’s best-selling contemporary series combined into one box set for the first time! Contains the stories:<br><br><strong>Something Like Hope:</strong> Actor Aaron Zeller finally gets his big break. But when another lead actor, Lucas Logan, doesn’t seem happy, Aaron is confused. Feelings bloom but can they find their way to happily ever after?<br><br><strong> Something Like Trust:</strong> Jared’s skills are honed sharp, and that extends to making sure a lover has what he needs. Brandon Culpepper is one of a kind, and fits with Jared perfectly. But their lives seem to want to keep them apart. Can they learn to trust each other?<br><br><strong> Something Like Peace:</strong> Dan Jacobs has finally embraced his sexuality. Fooling around with his show’s sometime director Vincent Stevens probably isn’t the best idea. But together they found something that works. Can they recognize the peace it brings them?<br><br><strong> Something Like Want:</strong> Alex Lockhart is a shining star, but when one night of passion turns into the biggest betrayal, Alex doesn’t know how he can recover. Spencer Johns was everything he wanted, and now he’s Alex’s worst enemy. But that doesn’t stop Alex from wanting Spencer. And Spencer wants him back. Can want be enough?

After the death of his wife, Nick Valenti is raising his twins on his own. It’s no surprise when his son, Quinn, gets a part in the holiday show, but Nick is amazed when he shows up at the parent meeting and finds his old high school friend is now his son’s music teacher.<br><br>Emmett James is full of passion and energy, and Nick is captivated by him. Volunteering to help with sets gives Nick the opportunity to get to know the man Emmett has become. Sparks fly, flirting ensues, and Nick wants nothing more than to see where the attraction between them goes.<br><br>With Christmas in the air, and holiday music helping them along, will Nick and Emmett find a romance that can last?

Wolf shifter Adam White has never worried about finding his mate. If it happens, it happens. Until the moment he lays eyes on Colby Carter and Adam’s entire world shifts. He knows he’s looking at his mate, even if he can’t be sure until all his senses are engaged. But Adam didn’t expect his mate to be human. And he certainly didn’t expect his mate to dismiss his claim so easily.<br><br>Colby has a solid reason for saying no, but he can’t deny the pull between them. When the truth comes out, Adam is still willing to get to know Colby, and Colby wants the same. But it’ll take time before they take the leap to solidify their bond. Adam pulls out all the stops, including bringing Christmas to the middle of July heat, to show Colby he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make Colby happy.<br><br>When a medical scare forces Colby to reevaluate what he wants, he’s all in. As long as Adam is. Adam knows Colby is meant to be his, and the more he’s gotten to know the man, the more he wants him. Fate may have decreed Adam and Colby were meant to be, but it’s never that simple. Can these two men find their way to a future together?

Cody Schaefer loves the Christmas season and a benefit to working from home means that he gets to be surrounded by his decoration collections all the time. And as a bonus, he starts getting deliveries from a local café containing holiday treats flavored with gingerbread. The notes aren’t signed, but they clearly come from someone who knows him.<br><br>Out of all of Cody’s friends, Jason van Buren is the only one level-headed about the mysterious treats, and Cody begins talking to him daily. Cody enjoys their chats, and the two men grow closer. One Christmas Eve, no delivery appears. But Jason shows up on his doorstep, ready to back gingerbread cookies. It’s then Cody realizes just who is behind the deliveries. And perhaps, Cody will get Jason as his Christmas gift this year.

Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing ... On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic at work after all. Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime ... if they’re willing to accept it.

When State Trooper Travis Kinslow is injured right before Thanksgiving, the only positive is that for once he won't be working during the holidays. Since he has no family, Travis was absorbed into his best friend Joe's, and he considers them as good as his own. Everyone except Joe's brother Noah. Travis has been in love with the younger man for much of his life, but he's always kept his distance. As an ER nurse, Noah is a caretaker by nature. When his brother's best friend is hurt, he's happy to help Travis while he heals. He's only ever allowed himself to think of Travis as the next best thing to an older brother, but by the light of the Christmas tree, Noah finally sees Travis's true feelings. And in that moment, everything changes. When faced with opposition and a Christmas nothing like they imagined, will their hopes for the future be enough to carry them through?

Avery Wagner quit ghostwalking when he lost his beloved anchor to cancer. Now teaching others who have the ability, he’s beginning to live again -- but he’s not looking for another lover, not now, maybe not ever. But then he meets Jameson ... younger, talented, dedicated, almost perfect, even though his mouth sometimes opens ahead of his brain. And Jameson wants Avery desperately, though he’ll settle for friendship if he can’t have more. When an emergency demands they work together in the field, Avery discovers just how perfect Jameson is. But he had a perfect love once before, and he’s scared to even consider that he might have a chance at another. Can he trust Jameson with his newly healing heart?

Florist West Walker loves weddings. When two gorgeous men walk into his shop for a consultation, he thinks they're the best looking grooms. Finding out Monroe Peters is just there to support his brother makes West's instant attraction to the man acceptable. When Monroe shows up at the shop with a special request, West agrees. And when Monroe asks West to stay at the wedding as his guest, West is thrilled. Can a magical wedding, the perfect arrangement, and kisses in the moonlight be all these two men need to start their own journey to a happily ever after?

Alphas aren't made to submit. Raised in a conservative clan, Asher Grant has done everything he could to be a good alpha. A good son. But denying his needs has made him weak, and he's lost touch with his bear. No longer able to shift, his clan rejects him instead of helping. Desperate, there's only one place Asher can turn. Trey Carver leads his pack with a firm but gentle hand. Under his guidance, his wolves have flourished. Asher knows he won't be welcome among the wolves, but Trey has something he needs. Asking for it isn't easy. Accepting it when it's offered is even harder. As Trey teaches Asher the beauty of dominance and submission, Asher begins to heal. Accepting his true self has a power all its own. When Trey makes the ultimate offer, Asher feels honor bound to deny it. Can a wolf convince a bear that they are meant to be?

Captain Brody Phillips commands the space station Elovaris, and excels at his job. He thrives on the challenge that comes with running such a large facility on the edge of the neutral zone and takes pride in caring for the two thousand beings aboard. When one of his commanders asks for help, Brody doesn’t hesitate. And not just because he’s attracted to the man. Sol Sousou, is part of the Ssarften military stationed on Elovaris. He also has cycles where he is biologically driven to mate. With no time before his cycle hits, he asks Brody to take care of him during this time. Brody wants more than just a few nights. He wants everything with Sol. But before he can voice his desires, Sol brings him shocking news. Their time together has resulted in pregnancy, and Sol fears he must go back to Ssarfta. Brody will do anything he has to in order to keep Sol and his children with him. Can he convince Sol they are meant to be together?

Will Grant only attends the PFLAG meeting because his mother guilts him into it. But the instant he hears the night’s speaker, Will is glad he showed up. Joshua Rhinehardt is dynamic and engaging. Although Joshua isn’t physically Will’s type, Will can’t get the man out of his head. Joshua may be comfortable in his own skin, but it isn’t often men like Will are attracted to him, and he's not comfortable changing for someone else. He wants to make a life with Will, but his own insecurities keep getting in the way. Will’s unwavering acceptance helps Joshua see that when two people connect, physical appearance just might not matter at all.

Mechanic Jordan Hart is down on his luck, so he gladly accepts a temporary job servicing tractors at a hazelnut farm in Newberg, Oregon. He doesn’t expect to be attracted to his boss, Beckett Shaw. Still working on embracing his bisexuality, he’s reluctant to start anything, but Beckett’s gentle coaxing convinces Jordan to take a risk. Beckett has vowed not to get involved with anyone until he can restore the Shaw Farms name as a leader in hazelnuts. But there’s no denying his interest in the shy mechanic who shows up at his door. Just as they begin to find a balance, outside forces threaten to tear them apart. Job opportunities force Jordan out of the Portland area he loves so much. But when danger comes too close to Beckett, Jordan must decide if he can follow his heart to the Willamette Valley ... and straight back to Beckett.

Angel has always wanted more from Quinn, but would rather have the man as his best friend than not at all. When Quinn shows up and announces its Champagne Thursday, Angel is surprised. A dance, a confession, and some heartfelt conversation isn’t what Angel expected, but can it move these friends to the place they both long to go?

Ghostwalker Sam Jones has been half in love with Michael King since he started working at Requiem Inc. But Michael is his boss and a Guardian, to boot. Sam thinks they could make it work anyway, but Michael uses his position and his age to keep Sam at arm’s length. When Sam continues to volunteer for the most dangerous cases, Michael has to intervene. He tells himself he’s just doing his job, but he’s always seen Sam as more than another operative, and he can’t bear the thought of not taking his chance. The connection between them has been strong from the beginning, and Michael’s telepathy adds unexpected depth and an edge to their new romance, but working together while they try to build their relationship might be the hardest part of their job if they don’t make some sacrifices.

As it often does, the bad news comes in the middle of the night. When attorney Ben Winters’s close friend takes a bad spill and ends up in the hospital, he flies across the country to be there for her. His instant attraction to her brother takes him by surprise. Wanting Zack Anderson is easy; actually having him is a bad idea. While the two connect over concern for Zack’s sister, there are many reasons to fight the attraction brewing between them. Things heat up as Ben’s friend begins to show improvement, but the reasons not to get involved with the younger man remain the same -- long distance relationships never work, and Ben doesn’t do one-night stands. But there’s one powerful reason to give in: Ben has never wanted anyone more.

"Ghostwalker Blake Jones dies every day. It’s his job and how he helps trapped souls cross over. But to return to life, he needs an anchor. His new partner, Derek Scott, is a surprise. Not only is he male, but his appearance belies a caring and gentle heart underneath. Despite attraction and a strengthening relationship, they know they shouldn’t take things further. But there’s a big difference between knowing and doing. Their growing love presents a problem, though not the one they expect. Blake and Derek have to decide if they should take their relationship to the most permanent level -- an unbreakable metaphysical bond. Doing so offers both risk and unimaginable reward. Can Blake let go of his fears and put his complete trust in Derek in order to have the happily ever after he’s always craved?"

"When Jesse Reid needs emergency surgery, he calls his neighbor to come pick him up instead of one of his many family members. As the youngest of nine, Jesse is used to feeling like a leftover, and he doesn’t need their coddling. Holden McRae is a big, beautiful man, everything Jesse wants. But Holden has made it clear he doesn’t want Jesse as a submissive. Under the influence of Holden’s care, Jesse becomes bolder and makes Holden see what he’s been missing. The two men’s interests line up, and the attraction that has always been there is something they can finally act on. As Jesse heals, he shares parts of his life with Holden, and Holden helps him see he’s so much more than #9. Their love might not be the most conventional, but maybe it’s exactly what both men need."

"For actor Daniel Jacobs, accepting he’s gay is easier than he expected. But actually acting on the attraction he’s just begun to acknowledge proves more difficult. Fortunately the very sexy Vincent Stevens is willing to introduce him to all he’s been missing, but Dan isn’t sure a fling with his TV show’s sometime director is wise. Throwing caution to the wind, Dan seeks out what Vincent has to offer and, before he knows it, he’s in over his head. Then Vincent experiences a health scare, and he isn’t sure how to take Dan’s sudden fussing. They’re starting to find their way toward more, but it will only work if they can recognize the peace they bring one another."

"Paramedic Alex Sullivan has always thought Matthew Carter was attractive. But there are reasons why Alex knows he shouldn't get involved with the younger man. Taking Matt in as a housemate seems like a recipe for disaster. To Alex’s surprise, Matt not only proves to be the perfect roommate, he also makes no effort to hide his attraction to Alex. Matt knows what he wants. Can Alex be the hero Matt already thinks he is?"

"Julian Thomas made the unpopular decision to become Beholden and focus his magic only on scrying. Because of it, he’s the best at his job and the top scryer for the Department of Extranormal and Magical Affairs. Which why Investigations Agent Wes Caldwell goes right to Julian for help locating a missing person. When Wes needs to use his magic to boost Julian’s, they find a magical resonance between them that quickly leads to more. Julian doesn’t want to move too fast, but Wes knows Julian is it for him. He’s fine with waiting, as long as Julian stays close as they work through it. But then Julian falls ill, and it’s clear there’s a magical reason. Wes will stop at nothing to find out what’s plaguing Julian, and when they realize just how deep the plot goes, they have more questions than answers. Magic is increasing in the world, and no one can figure out why. Julian and Wes have found love, but will it be enough to get them through what’s to come?"

"All four stories Kris T. Bethke’s best-selling contemporary series combined into one box set for the first time! Contains the stories: Something Like Hope: Actor Aaron Zeller finally gets his big break. But when another lead actor, Lucas Logan, doesn’t seem happy, Aaron is confused. Feelings bloom but can they find their way to happily ever after? Something Like Trust: Jared’s skills are honed sharp, and that extends to making sure a lover has what he needs. Brandon Culpepper is one of a kind, and fits with Jared perfectly. But their lives seem to want to keep them apart. Can they learn to trust each other? Something Like Peace: Dan Jacobs has finally embraced his sexuality. Fooling around with his show’s sometime director Vincent Stevens probably isn’t the best idea. But together they found something that works. Can they recognize the peace it brings them? Something Like Want: Alex Lockhart is a shining star, but when one night of passion turns into the biggest betrayal, Alex doesn’t know how he can recover. Spencer Johns was everything he wanted, and now he’s Alex’s worst enemy. But that doesn’t stop Alex from wanting Spencer. And Spencer wants him back. Can want be enough?"

"Jonah Lyons is looking forward to spending a weekend at a cabin with his sister, Ellie. So the last thing he expects is for his ex-boyfriend to show up. Captain Adrian Cooper was once the love of his life, but Jonah thinks he’s moved past it. Getting trapped together because of a snowstorm wasn’t on the agenda, but it means they either have to talk or murder each other. When Cooper admits the reason he left, Jonah doesn’t know how to react. The depth of Cooper’s love has never waned, and Jonah realizes he still loves Cooper, too. Now he needs to decide if he can forgive Cooper. Can he give them both the second chance they deserve?"

"Actor Alex Lockhart’s career is in a good place. The roles are coming in, the work is steady, and everything is falling into place. Even his sex life, since Alex finally hooked up with another hot actor, Spencer Johns, and Spencer pushes every one of Alex’s buttons. Then, just when Alex is on the verge of landing an exciting role, he learns the part went to Spencer. And Spencer didn’t even bother to mention he was up for the part. Feeling furious and betrayed, with one punch Alex takes their sudden feud public. Hollywood is abuzz with their rivalry. When a chance at a great independent movie comes up, Alex can’t turn down the role, even if Spencer is also slated to be in it. Beneath his outward hate and loathing for Spencer simmers hurt and a desperate want Alex can’t seem to quell. But as he tries to hold onto the hurt and anger, Alex learns Spencer isn’t quite what he thought. Can burning desire and want be enough to put out the flames of Alex’s rage?"

"After the death of his wife, Nick Valenti is raising his twins on his own. It’s no surprise when his son, Quinn, gets a part in the holiday show, but Nick is amazed when he shows up at the parent meeting and finds his old high school friend is now his son’s music teacher. Emmett James is full of passion and energy, and Nick is captivated by him. Volunteering to help with sets gives Nick the opportunity to get to know the man Emmett has become. Sparks fly, flirting ensues, and Nick wants nothing more than to see where the attraction between them goes. With Christmas in the air, and holiday music helping them along, will Nick and Emmett find a romance that can last?"

"When Caleb sees the man across the bar, he knows without a doubt exactly what he wants. Jake is beautiful and commanding, and the attraction sparks between them. Going home with Jake is an easy decision, and what follows is exactly what Caleb wants. And needs. A little something new to spice things up"

"Eli Brennan's only joy comes from helping out the less fortunate. The rest of his life is less than satisfactory, and he certainly doesn't believe in fairy tales. Until he meets Chase Prinsen, whose winning smile and gorgeous muscles embody Eli's idea of Prince Charming. Chase sweeps Eli off his feet after an enchanting meeting on the stairs. Eli isn't used to being special to anyone, but Chase makes him feel it. With a little persuading, can Chase convince Eli they go together like foot and slipper?"

"Wyatt Janson needed a change of scenery in the worst way, so he packed up his dog and moved to a small tourist town. When he spots a man in a vermilion beanie, he’s intrigued. Why would someone would wear such a hat in the middle of summer? Their paths keep crossing, and Wyatt soon learns that Truitt Rackley owns a dog grooming and training service. It’s the perfect opportunity for Wyatt to meet Tru. What begins as friendship quickly blossoms into more. But Tru’s happy demeanor hides a sad past. The hat he wears is only one part of it. Tru needs Wyatt’s support as he deals with the fallout, and Wyatt is glad to be able to provide it. Now that he’s found Tru, he knows he’ll do whatever he must to keep him. Can two broken men find the happily ever after they’ve been searching for?"

"Television actor Aaron Zeller is thrilled when the character he plays on a popular primetime crime drama begins a gay relationship with one of the main characters on the show. While the cast and crew are mostly supportive, lead actor Lucas Logan is not. Aaron feels nothing but inexplicable coldness from his costar. Lucas admits his attraction for Aaron, but is reluctant to act on his desires because of the potential detriment to his career should his sexuality become public. What they have between them could be sizzling hot. But is it worth the risks?"

"While working security for a popular prime time television show, reservist Jared Connors meets guest star Brandon Culpepper. They are immediately drawn to each other, quickly discovering they are what the other needs. Even though Brandon is in town only for the duration of his guest-starring role, the men have a short-term affair. When the filming is finished, however, it’s harder to let go than either expected, but Brandon has to leave for another role. Their resolve for their relationship to be over is soon tested when each realizes their emotions are more involved than they thought. But figuring out a way for their very different lives to fit together seems an impossible task. Can they trust each other enough to find a long-term solution?"