“Cold Touches” is a gay romance short story of over 9000 words. It narrates the fates of two highly introverted roommates who, despite not knowing each other at all, agree to spend a night together. And then, another one... and another.

*

Galen is a marine engineer who lives in a gloomy, industrial port city. As a workaholic struggling with memories of his unrequited love, he's quite a loner, spending most of his time in the docks.

When his new roommate moves in, Galen fears being bothered, but it soon turns out that he has nothing to worry about. Kris acts more like a mysterious shadow than a normal roommate... The two keep brushing shoulders a lot but don't really talk.

Then one day, Kris asks Galen for a one-night stand, and everything turns around. Even though their first time feels tepid and disappointing to Galen, he agrees to one more and then another. As he finally realizes that he's falling in love, he's involved quite deeply...

But what does Kris feel? That's something Galen really wants to know... Even though he let go of his unrequited love from earlier, rejection still stings, and now, he just wants to play it safe...

Will the two get together despite their insecurities?

*

“Cold Touches” is a short story about a love that develops slowly and without words, through stolen glances and seemingly casual nights. It demonstrates that there’s no such thing as “no strings attached,” ever, and it's perfectly possible to fall in love with someone without getting to know them. “Cold Touches” also explores how unrequited love can affect a person's self-worth and take away their courage, preventing them from taking romantic risks in the future. No matter how much the protagonist desires to play it safe, his romantic feelings push him into the corner, and he’s forced to take a leap of faith.

Table of Contents:

- Cold Touches (Full Story)