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Playing with Fire
Dear Author,
The fire in front of me was nothing compared to the heat coming off of Jesse as he pressed into my back. Damn Fool! I had told him to stay back--I had this! But No--not him, the son of a bitch had to push his way in and now the only thing standing between him and the ravenous whore that this fire was turning out to be was me...and I was so fucking tired. I heard Rick shout and move in behind the two of us--great, just great! Now not only was my current boyfriend in danger but my ex-lover was as well. Jesus--maybe I should just throw myself into the flames and call it a day!
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love is Always Write" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
Download the story, read it online or find it in Love Is Always Write: Volume 7.
__________
STORY INFO:
Genre: ménage
Tags: firemen; open relationship; memories of first time; poly-mmm; established couples; friends-to-lovers; in the closet; orgy; trouble-in-paradise
Warnings: infidelity, open relationship, poly-mmm, orgy
This story veers away from expected m/m romance tropes therefore it may not be palatable for everyone. Reader discretion is adviced and appreciated.
Word count: 7,202
The fire in front of me was nothing compared to the heat coming off of Jesse as he pressed into my back. Damn Fool! I had told him to stay back--I had this! But No--not him, the son of a bitch had to push his way in and now the only thing standing between him and the ravenous whore that this fire was turning out to be was me...and I was so fucking tired. I heard Rick shout and move in behind the two of us--great, just great! Now not only was my current boyfriend in danger but my ex-lover was as well. Jesus--maybe I should just throw myself into the flames and call it a day!
This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's "Love is Always Write" event. Group members were asked to write a story prompt inspired by a photo of their choice. Authors of the group selected a photo and prompt that spoke to them and wrote a short story.
Download the story, read it online or find it in Love Is Always Write: Volume 7.
__________
STORY INFO:
Genre: ménage
Tags: firemen; open relationship; memories of first time; poly-mmm; established couples; friends-to-lovers; in the closet; orgy; trouble-in-paradise
Warnings: infidelity, open relationship, poly-mmm, orgy
This story veers away from expected m/m romance tropes therefore it may not be palatable for everyone. Reader discretion is adviced and appreciated.
Word count: 7,202
29 pages, ebook
First published July 11, 2012
1 person is currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Jennivie Wirries
6 books37 followersMy M/M and LGBTQIA+ pen name:
https://linktr.ee/williamtateauthor
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Why a male name when I am inherently female? The short answer is that William Tate is as much a part of me as my own female self. The deeper answers are yet to come.
I lived in the same town on the outskirts of Detroit almost my entire life, having been born there, and currently residing only miles from where I grew up. A stay at home mom of a 14-year-old, in my spare time I write, paint (digitally and traditionally) read, draw, watch movies and Anime, knit, crochet, role play online, or engage in other activities that unleash my creativity. Writing is something that I have always been passionate about and I've used it to cope with problems I've faced over the course of my life. My summers as a youth were spent perusing library shelves and reading some of the works that influence my writing today. As a writer and reader, I indulge in mostly gay romances in several different sub-genres, and paranormal romances, but I am open to anything. In recent years, my biggest achievements have been finishing the Nanowrimo.org challenge to write a novel in a month (three years in a row), committing to writing something every single day, and getting published in a few anthologies. I have several novels and novellas in the wings just waiting to be shown some love and a few short works on Amazon.
https://linktr.ee/williamtateauthor
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Why a male name when I am inherently female? The short answer is that William Tate is as much a part of me as my own female self. The deeper answers are yet to come.
I lived in the same town on the outskirts of Detroit almost my entire life, having been born there, and currently residing only miles from where I grew up. A stay at home mom of a 14-year-old, in my spare time I write, paint (digitally and traditionally) read, draw, watch movies and Anime, knit, crochet, role play online, or engage in other activities that unleash my creativity. Writing is something that I have always been passionate about and I've used it to cope with problems I've faced over the course of my life. My summers as a youth were spent perusing library shelves and reading some of the works that influence my writing today. As a writer and reader, I indulge in mostly gay romances in several different sub-genres, and paranormal romances, but I am open to anything. In recent years, my biggest achievements have been finishing the Nanowrimo.org challenge to write a novel in a month (three years in a row), committing to writing something every single day, and getting published in a few anthologies. I have several novels and novellas in the wings just waiting to be shown some love and a few short works on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 14, 2017
I was hoping for a polyamorous story, but it is not really that one. Kaleb and Bryce live in an open relationship, and though it seems to be working, both of them feel that something is missing.
Until Devon, Kaleb’s ex, appears, and play some kind of moderator between the two.
It’s definitely not a HEA for the three of them that I hoped for, but maybe this experience would improve the relationship of Kaleb and Bryce.
Playing with Fire is not what I wanted it to be. While I love polyamorous stories, I’m not a fan of open relationships.
Until Devon, Kaleb’s ex, appears, and play some kind of moderator between the two.
It’s definitely not a HEA for the three of them that I hoped for, but maybe this experience would improve the relationship of Kaleb and Bryce.
Playing with Fire is not what I wanted it to be. While I love polyamorous stories, I’m not a fan of open relationships.
October 21, 2012
Really well written and I could sorta relate to the guys but i am just not a fan of open relationships. I was thrilled to see Kaleb learn to show Bryse his softer side but sad that it took another man in their bed to get there.
July 17, 2012
This is a controversial story. I think it will not appeal to a lot of m/m readers just because it features an „open relationship“. It doesn’t end with a clear solution for their HEA, too. So I assume that a lot readers will be not so happy about the story.
Additionally it features guys who act much more like guys than we female readers want to read about: sex is sex and has often nothing to do with a relationship. When you follow male blogs you’ll realize that these guys are out there in reality.
But who wants to read about reality? Well, I like it more than when guys act like chicks with dicks….
I think it was a very courageous attempt to combine other perspectives than the usual to a hot story.
We have Bryce who is the more open and emotional one, the one who really wants a solid relationship, who is even a bit inexperienced because he married young, got divorced and then stumbled in this hot “sex-relationship” with Kaleb. He doesn’t know how to ask for what he wants.
Then there is Kaleb, the guy who loves hard sex and had had one really emotional relationship before Bryce, a relationship that his lover Devon had ended. I wonder if he even realized that since then he couldn’t give up control and wasn’t able to give everything of him?
And then Devon – unfortunately we get to know not enough of him. He seems like a very insightful guy because he could be the missing link between Bryce and Kaleb, the one to let them both their guards down.
So, here comes my critique:
I liked that Kaleb was honest and told Bryce about Devon – even if I had preferred him to do it sooner, I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt that he thought he could handle it and didn’t want to disturb Bryce.
I loved Bryce for his reaction – “Invite him to dinner” – Yeah – this is a good one, no (girly) temper tantrum but action, go for it, Bryce!!!
The dream was a nice “plus” to show us that their unstable connection needed to be mended not only on Kaleb’s side but also Bryce had some talking/showing to do.
I missed more insight – especially about Devon – it sometimes felt like a plot, not like the finished story. So some parts felt a bit rushed and as a reader I felt disconnected from the emotions from time to time.
This story had the potential for interesting plot twists, a bit uncomfortable but realistic problems and it is not written for those who want two guys to fall in love and have their HEA easily. For this one you need to be more openminded and able to read between the lines.
But still it should have been more detailed and longer.
Yes, I know, Jennivie, you wanted to write more but hadn’t got the time. It’s a pity because I know you have it in you. So next time you’ll sweep me of my feet. This time you “just” entertained me and that’s okay, too.
Additionally it features guys who act much more like guys than we female readers want to read about: sex is sex and has often nothing to do with a relationship. When you follow male blogs you’ll realize that these guys are out there in reality.
But who wants to read about reality? Well, I like it more than when guys act like chicks with dicks….
I think it was a very courageous attempt to combine other perspectives than the usual to a hot story.
We have Bryce who is the more open and emotional one, the one who really wants a solid relationship, who is even a bit inexperienced because he married young, got divorced and then stumbled in this hot “sex-relationship” with Kaleb. He doesn’t know how to ask for what he wants.
Then there is Kaleb, the guy who loves hard sex and had had one really emotional relationship before Bryce, a relationship that his lover Devon had ended. I wonder if he even realized that since then he couldn’t give up control and wasn’t able to give everything of him?
And then Devon – unfortunately we get to know not enough of him. He seems like a very insightful guy because he could be the missing link between Bryce and Kaleb, the one to let them both their guards down.
So, here comes my critique:
I liked that Kaleb was honest and told Bryce about Devon – even if I had preferred him to do it sooner, I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt that he thought he could handle it and didn’t want to disturb Bryce.
I loved Bryce for his reaction – “Invite him to dinner” – Yeah – this is a good one, no (girly) temper tantrum but action, go for it, Bryce!!!
The dream was a nice “plus” to show us that their unstable connection needed to be mended not only on Kaleb’s side but also Bryce had some talking/showing to do.
I missed more insight – especially about Devon – it sometimes felt like a plot, not like the finished story. So some parts felt a bit rushed and as a reader I felt disconnected from the emotions from time to time.
This story had the potential for interesting plot twists, a bit uncomfortable but realistic problems and it is not written for those who want two guys to fall in love and have their HEA easily. For this one you need to be more openminded and able to read between the lines.
But still it should have been more detailed and longer.
Yes, I know, Jennivie, you wanted to write more but hadn’t got the time. It’s a pity because I know you have it in you. So next time you’ll sweep me of my feet. This time you “just” entertained me and that’s okay, too.
July 12, 2012
I didn't really have any problems with the way this story was written, but the actual storyline was just a little strange. Kaleb and Bryce are in a relationship, living together, but they both have an agreement that it is ok to have sex with other people, so long as they are never with the same person more than once. Another thing going on is that Bryce has a dream where he gets banged by 4 guys in the work locker room, and the end of which, he realizes he needs to tell Kaleb what he is really missing in their relationship, that is, Kaleb doesn't let Bryce touch him much, only really wants rough sex and doesn't show much love. Then, it is about Kaleb's ex, who is now at the same fire company, and tempting Kaleb to break their only screw a guy once agreement.
Best thing I could discern from this story is that Bryce and Kaleb learn what they mean to each other and that they are fully capable of giving each other all that they've been holding back and thought they could only get from other people.
A lot happens in a short amount of words, and it was hard to really feel for any of the characters.
Best thing I could discern from this story is that Bryce and Kaleb learn what they mean to each other and that they are fully capable of giving each other all that they've been holding back and thought they could only get from other people.
A lot happens in a short amount of words, and it was hard to really feel for any of the characters.
not-for-me
July 12, 2012These tags and such a short word count no way.
Plus dream orgy. Come on, no thanks
Plus dream orgy. Come on, no thanks
July 14, 2012
This story was was a train wreck.
August 19, 2013
WHAT THE HECK! I missed this! OMG! I'm so excited! I love your writing!
April 18, 2015
I liked it, though I felt sorry for Bryce. Thank you Jennivie Wirries, for donating your story, time and talent.
July 22, 2012
I think you are very talented and the story was great I didnt want to stop reading.
July 17, 2012
This is a different type of relationship. I have heard of people who were in a relationship and agreed on this sort of arrangement. However, I felt that both of them were not on the same pace.
Meet Bryce, a divorced man who had found that he was actually gay and Kaleb, his experienced boyfriend in every sense of the words. They agreed on open relationship with one rule, never bang another guy more than one time. It sort of works for them but Bryce began to feel that he was more like a sex toy to Kaleb than a loving boyfriend. Kaleb, despite claiming that he love Bryce, hardly shows any affections that Bryce crave. Plus he broke the rule and bang the same guy twice in a week. That guy
Everything in the story shows that this couple is in trouble. From Bryce feeling neglected emotionally wise and Kaleb lack of understanding in that department. Bryce himself also said that he feels more one-man kinda guy than being in this open relationship.
I am not sure if this couple will last. Kaleb seems unable to keep it in his pants and Bryce who might eventually wants to be exclusive.
Ms. Wirries said in the post that there are more to the story than she had the time to write in this occasion. Hopefully we will see how Bryce and Kaleb navigate their relationship in a fuller context.
Meet Bryce, a divorced man who had found that he was actually gay and Kaleb, his experienced boyfriend in every sense of the words. They agreed on open relationship with one rule, never bang another guy more than one time. It sort of works for them but Bryce began to feel that he was more like a sex toy to Kaleb than a loving boyfriend. Kaleb, despite claiming that he love Bryce, hardly shows any affections that Bryce crave. Plus he broke the rule and bang the same guy twice in a week. That guy
Everything in the story shows that this couple is in trouble. From Bryce feeling neglected emotionally wise and Kaleb lack of understanding in that department. Bryce himself also said that he feels more one-man kinda guy than being in this open relationship.
I am not sure if this couple will last. Kaleb seems unable to keep it in his pants and Bryce who might eventually wants to be exclusive.
Ms. Wirries said in the post that there are more to the story than she had the time to write in this occasion. Hopefully we will see how Bryce and Kaleb navigate their relationship in a fuller context.
July 17, 2012
*SPOILER ALERT*
Wonderfully written. This author shows true potential. I felt so bad for Bryce. First he lost his mom, then his wife? He lost a lot of good things in his life and he really went out on a limb telling Kaleb to invite Devon over. It was a big step for him as a lover, and it showed Kaleb that Bryce trusted him. It opened his eyes to what Bryce needed from him in the process. Great story.
Wonderfully written. This author shows true potential. I felt so bad for Bryce. First he lost his mom, then his wife? He lost a lot of good things in his life and he really went out on a limb telling Kaleb to invite Devon over. It was a big step for him as a lover, and it showed Kaleb that Bryce trusted him. It opened his eyes to what Bryce needed from him in the process. Great story.
August 24, 2013
Great Short!! You always write so that the reader feels like a fly on the wall, that's what I love most about your approach. Your insta-wet scenes cannot be written any better. If they were we wouldn't be able to sit in our chairs, we would just slide off onto the floor. Can't wait for your next BOOK to come out, I know you have to be writing one and if not, WHY NOT!!! As always a pleasure to read anything you write and this was terrific!!!!
too-angsty
January 27, 2015I probably won't read this. I don't understand the concept of an "open relationship." Why bother? The whole point of pairing up with someone is to BE with ONLY that person. If you want to be with others at the same time, I think the term "roommates with benefits" or "friends with benefits" would be a more appropriate label than an "open relationship."
December 1, 2012
Learning to love, rediscovering love, tenderness, and intimacy, it is all here as Kaleb and Bryce rediscover each other and their new lover Devon.
A great read. I would like to have an extended version that would further explore the relationship of the three men.
A great read. I would like to have an extended version that would further explore the relationship of the three men.
September 6, 2012
Loved that Kaleb was willing to open up to Bryce for their love, not a lot of people is willing to do so fearing rejection until it is too late.
February 11, 2014
Bryce and Kaleb are a couple but then an old boyfriend is back. This is a short but there a couple of twists that feels like things are going to come out okay.
September 16, 2012
Minus 5
October 27, 2013
This was good. I don't like threesomes but this one was ok. It was sweet at the end.
August 16, 2016
2.5 stars
December 2, 2018
Nice story, but kind of strangely written. I expected something more.
May 6, 2021
Kaleb's change of behavior in the last scene was not explained.
May 10, 2013
First of all, I absolutely loved the writing style. I have a pet peeve, when I read through a book--or even a short story and find a mistake, it makes me CRAZY!!! Now with that being said, VERY descriptive... to the point that I coughed and blushed just a tiny bit. Okay, A LOT.
Personally, the open relationship thing didn't bother me. I was absolutely positively EXCITED when Kaleb showed his softer side. And Bryce... *sighs softly* he was adorable. I loved his inner thoughts. <3
Personally, the open relationship thing didn't bother me. I was absolutely positively EXCITED when Kaleb showed his softer side. And Bryce... *sighs softly* he was adorable. I loved his inner thoughts. <3
January 31, 2014
Hmmm... Would rather have had the story of how Bryce and Kaleb came to be a couple in detail, than this brief interlude from a relationsship in trouble.
Didn't find Devons role believable in the scenario - in my mind that would have been the final nail in the coffin, not the salvation. Hate threesomes where the third party has to save the relationsship
Didn't find Devons role believable in the scenario - in my mind that would have been the final nail in the coffin, not the salvation. Hate threesomes where the third party has to save the relationsship
August 3, 2014
2.5 stars, I liked the story better than the telling.
Want to read
December 24, 2012Offered free from M/M Romance Group, Love Is Always Write: Volume Seven.
May 31, 2014
The narration is very engaging, and the changing 3rd person PoVs are consistently and accurately written. However, the plot doesn't really follow/ incorporate the prompt.
October 20, 2014
I didn't feel any connection between the men. It felt kinda forced to have a third men getting between the couple. The reasons were wrong IMO. Awkward situations.
October 28, 2014
Great story! I think the author did a lot with the limited space she had for a short story. Would love to hear more about these two men later, though!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews