Unlikely Hearts Collide

Marcus St. James, a successful, work-obsessed news executive, and Gabriel Romero, a passionate, younger musician, are drawn together by chance and chemistry. Their initial connection is electric but complicated by age, career ambitions, and Marcus's inexperience with relationships. Despite their differences, a spark ignites, setting the stage for a romance neither expected. Marcus, used to control and solitude, finds himself captivated by Gabe's boldness and warmth, while Gabe is intrigued by Marcus's intensity and vulnerability. Their first encounters are marked by witty banter, mutual attraction, and the sense that something extraordinary is beginning, even as both men sense the risks involved.

Communication Breakdown

As Marcus travels for a high-stakes job interview, he fails to communicate his plans to Gabe, triggering feelings of exclusion and insecurity. Gabe, hurt by Marcus's omission, hangs up on him, leading to a series of missed calls and mounting frustration. Marcus, unaccustomed to emotional vulnerability, is thrown off balance, realizing how much Gabe's opinion and presence matter to him. The tension escalates until Marcus, desperate to reconnect, tracks Gabe down at work, using a fake name just to hear his voice. Their conversation is charged, revealing both their stubbornness and the depth of their feelings, but leaves their relationship at a crossroads.

Practice Makes Imperfect

Determined to repair the rift, Marcus shows up at Gabe's apartment, ready to "practice" being a better partner. Gabe, still annoyed but secretly pleased, sets the terms: Marcus must spend the weekend in Gabe's world, stripped of his usual privileges. The power dynamic shifts as Marcus is challenged to adapt, cook ramen in a tiny kitchen, and navigate unfamiliar territory. Through awkwardness and humor, they begin to bridge the gap, learning that vulnerability and compromise are essential. The weekend becomes a crash course in intimacy, revealing both men's insecurities and the potential for something real.

Ramen and Revelations

Over bowls of ramen, Marcus and Gabe share stories of their childhoods, families, and dreams. Marcus opens up about his upbringing and the pressures of his career, while Gabe reveals his struggles as a musician and the pain of a recent injury. Their conversation is honest and playful, marked by teasing and flirtation, but also by genuine curiosity and care. The act of cooking and eating together becomes symbolic—a way of nurturing each other and building trust. By the end of the meal, the tension has softened, replaced by a sense of comfort and belonging neither expected.

Learning to Stay

As the night unfolds, Marcus and Gabe navigate the delicate dance of forgiveness and desire. Marcus admits his shortcomings and apologizes for his lack of communication, while Gabe acknowledges his own fears of being left behind. Their physical connection is passionate but also tender, underscoring the emotional stakes. They fall asleep in each other's arms, both aware that this is more than a fling. The next morning brings awkward encounters with Gabe's roommate, but also clarity: they want to be together, and are willing to face the challenges ahead.

Weekend in Gabe's World

The weekend continues with Marcus adapting to Gabe's routines, meeting his roommate, and even going shopping for clothes at Gabe's insistence. The experience is humbling for Marcus, who is used to control and luxury, but he embraces the opportunity to let Gabe take the lead. Their playful banter and mutual attraction deepen, but so do their conversations about the future. Both men begin to realize that their connection is worth fighting for, even as the realities of their different lives loom in the background.

Roommates and Realizations

After a series of humorous and awkward moments with Gabe's roommate, the couple is forced to confront what they mean to each other. Marcus, previously commitment-averse, surprises Gabe by referring to him as his boyfriend, signaling a shift in his priorities. Gabe, in turn, is both delighted and nervous, aware that their relationship is moving quickly. The chapter is marked by warmth, laughter, and the sense that they are building something lasting, even as uncertainties about work and the future persist.

Axe-Throwing and Affection

Gabe plans a surprise outing to an axe-throwing bar, pushing Marcus far beyond his usual boundaries. The experience is both hilarious and revealing, as Marcus struggles with the unfamiliar activity but is buoyed by Gabe's encouragement and competitive spirit. Their playful rivalry turns into a drinking game, leading to drunken confessions and a night of passion. The date becomes a metaphor for their relationship: risky, unpredictable, but exhilarating when they trust each other.

Drunken Confessions

After their night out, Marcus and Gabe return home, tipsy and uninhibited. Their physical intimacy is raw and honest, stripping away the last of their defenses. In the aftermath, they share secrets and fears, acknowledging the intensity of their feelings. The morning brings hangovers and awkwardness, but also a renewed sense of commitment. Both men realize that they are falling in love, even if neither is quite ready to say it aloud.

Family Ties and Truths

Gabe invites Marcus to dinner with his family, marking a significant step in their relationship. The evening is filled with warmth, humor, and cultural traditions, but also with probing questions and subtle judgments. Marcus, out of his element, is forced to confront his own insecurities and the reality of their age difference. Gabe's parents are loving but protective, and their approval means everything to him. The dinner becomes a rite of passage, solidifying their bond and forcing both men to articulate what they want from each other.

Music, Ambition, and Choices

Gabe receives an invitation to audition for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, reigniting his passion for music and raising questions about his future. At the same time, Marcus is courted by networks in New York and Los Angeles, facing career-defining decisions. Their ambitions threaten to pull them in different directions, and both struggle with the fear of losing what they've found. Honest conversations about priorities, sacrifice, and the meaning of home bring their deepest desires and anxieties to the surface.

The New York Question

To help Marcus decide about the New York job, Gabe suggests a spontaneous weekend trip to the city. They explore together, imagining what life might be like if Marcus took the offer. The city's energy is intoxicating, but the prospect of a long-distance relationship is daunting. Both men wrestle with the possibility of separation, torn between ambition and love. The trip becomes a crucible, forcing them to confront what they truly want and whether they can have it all.

Dancing Around Decisions

Back in Chicago, Marcus and Gabe attend a glamorous work event, navigating the politics of their professional and personal lives. They dance together, openly acknowledging their relationship in front of colleagues and friends. The evening is a celebration of their love, but also a reminder of the choices looming ahead. Conversations with bosses and mentors highlight the stakes, and both men are pushed to articulate their hopes and fears. The night ends with unresolved tension, as neither is sure what the future holds.

Love in the Balance

As the pressure mounts, both Marcus and Gabe struggle with unspoken feelings. Each fears influencing the other's decisions, leading to a painful emotional distance. Well-meaning friends and family urge them to be honest, but vulnerability is terrifying. A series of misunderstandings and missed opportunities culminate in a moment of crisis, as Gabe flees a party in distress and Marcus realizes what he stands to lose. The chapter is a turning point, as both men must decide whether to risk everything for love.

The Library at Midnight

Gabe returns to Marcus's home and pours his heart into a midnight cello performance, using music to express what words cannot. Marcus finds him, and in a moment of raw honesty, Gabe finally confesses his love. The emotional dam breaks, and Marcus responds in kind, revealing his own feelings and the depth of his commitment. The library, once a symbol of Marcus's solitude, becomes the sacred space where they choose each other, promising to face the future together.

Telling the Truth

With their feelings finally out in the open, Marcus and Gabe have the difficult conversations they've been avoiding. They discuss their ambitions, fears, and the possibility of compromise. Marcus makes a bold gesture, getting a tattoo to symbolize their bond, and assures Gabe that he chooses him over any job or city. Their love becomes a source of strength, empowering them to make decisions that honor both their dreams and their relationship.

Choosing Each Other

Marcus decides to stay in Chicago, turning down the New York offer in favor of a life with Gabe. Gabe, in turn, embraces his place in the symphony and moves in with Marcus, blending their worlds. They celebrate with friends and family, grateful for the journey that brought them together. The challenges they faced have made their love stronger, and both men are committed to supporting each other's ambitions while nurturing their relationship.

A New Beginning

The story concludes with Gabe's triumphant return to the stage, performing with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as Marcus and their loved ones watch with pride. Their journey has been marked by risk, vulnerability, and growth, but ultimately by the choice to love boldly and without reservation. Together, they have created a home filled with music, laughter, and the promise of many adventures to come.

Characters

Marcus St. James

Marcus is a forty-something, highly successful president of a major news network, defined by discipline, control, and a deep-seated fear of vulnerability. His life is meticulously ordered, with work as his primary focus and relationships kept at arm's length. Meeting Gabe disrupts his carefully constructed world, forcing him to confront his emotional limitations and the loneliness beneath his achievements. Marcus's journey is one of transformation: from guarded and solitary to open, passionate, and willing to risk everything for love. His relationship with Gabe challenges his assumptions about happiness, teaching him that true fulfillment comes from connection, not control. Through Gabe, Marcus learns to communicate, compromise, and embrace the messiness of intimacy, ultimately choosing love over ambition.

Gabriel "Gabe" Romero

Gabe is a vibrant, twenty-something cellist whose life was derailed by a hand injury, forcing him to put his musical dreams on hold. Despite setbacks, he remains bold, witty, and unafraid to pursue what he wants—including Marcus. Gabe's charm masks insecurities about his worth and fears of abandonment, especially in the face of Marcus's career-driven world. His journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, as he fights to reclaim his place in music and to be seen and loved for who he is. Gabe's openness and emotional intelligence are both his strength and vulnerability, enabling him to draw Marcus out while risking his own heart. His relationships—with family, friends, and Marcus—are central to his growth, teaching him that love is worth the risk.

Abby St. James

Abby is Marcus's younger sister, a creative and empathetic writer who serves as his emotional anchor. She is perceptive, nurturing, and unafraid to challenge Marcus's stubbornness. Abby's own journey as an artist mirrors Gabe's, and her encouragement helps both men navigate their fears. She represents the importance of family, honesty, and following one's heart, often acting as the voice of reason and hope.

Ryan

Ryan is Gabe's roommate and close friend, providing both practical support and much-needed levity. He is protective, quick-witted, and unfiltered, often voicing the concerns Gabe is reluctant to admit. Ryan's presence grounds Gabe, reminding him of his worth and pushing him to fight for what he wants. His own romantic misadventures serve as a foil to the main couple's journey.

Gloria Tennant

Gloria is the formidable owner of Marcus's network, embodying ambition, intelligence, and strategic acumen. She is both a mentor and a challenger, pushing Marcus to confront his priorities and make difficult choices. Gloria's probing questions and high expectations force Marcus to clarify what matters most, serving as a catalyst for his ultimate decision to choose love over career advancement.

Logan Mitchell

Logan is Gabe's employer, a successful attorney with a complex personal life. He is supportive, insightful, and unafraid to offer tough love. Logan's own unconventional relationship serves as a model for Gabe, demonstrating that happiness comes from authenticity and courage. His advice helps Gabe find the strength to be honest with Marcus, and his acceptance reinforces the story's themes of inclusion and chosen family.

Daniela and Santiago Romero

Gabe's parents are warm, supportive, and deeply invested in his happiness. Their cultural traditions and close-knit family dynamic shape Gabe's values and sense of self. They are initially wary of Marcus, but come to accept and celebrate the relationship, providing a foundation of unconditional love that empowers Gabe to pursue his dreams.

Franklin

Franklin is Marcus's loyal driver, a background figure who represents stability and discretion. His presence is a subtle reminder of Marcus's privileged world, but also of the quiet support systems that enable the main characters' journeys. Franklin's understated approval of Gabe signals Marcus's growth and the blending of their lives.

Julien Thornton

Julien is a renowned chef and part of a polyamorous marriage, embodying the story's themes of unconventional love and acceptance. His interactions with Gabe and Marcus highlight the importance of community, celebration, and the joy of shared experiences.

Robbie Thornton-Priestley

Robbie is a vibrant, playful character who bridges various social circles. His humor and openness challenge social norms, encouraging others to embrace their true selves. Robbie's presence at key events underscores the story's message that love comes in many forms and that happiness is found in authenticity.

Plot Devices

Dual Point of View

The narrative alternates between Marcus and Gabe's points of view, allowing readers to experience both the external events and the internal emotional landscapes of each character. This structure deepens empathy, highlights misunderstandings, and creates dramatic irony, as readers often know more than the characters themselves. The dual POV is essential for exploring themes of vulnerability, communication, and growth, as each man's journey is shaped by his unique fears and desires.

Symbolic Motifs

Music is a central motif, representing passion, healing, and the power of expression beyond words. Gabe's cello performances serve as confessions and turning points, while shared meals (from ramen to fine dining) symbolize intimacy, care, and the blending of worlds. Physical spaces—Marcus's library, Gabe's apartment, the symphony hall—reflect the characters' emotional states and the evolution of their relationship, moving from isolation to shared belonging.

Foreshadowing and Parallelism

Early references to Marcus's inexperience with relationships, Gabe's injury, and the challenges of long-distance love foreshadow the obstacles they will face. Parallel scenes—such as shared meals, family gatherings, and public declarations—underscore the growth of their bond and the recurring need for honesty and courage. The story's structure mirrors the arc of a musical composition, with themes introduced, developed, and resolved in a satisfying emotional crescendo.

External and Internal Conflict

The central tension arises from the clash between ambition and intimacy, as both men are forced to choose between professional opportunities and personal happiness. Internal conflicts—fear of vulnerability, past disappointments, and the risk of heartbreak—are as significant as external obstacles, driving the characters' development and the story's emotional stakes.

Chosen Family and Community

Friends, family, and colleagues play crucial roles in challenging, supporting, and guiding the protagonists. Their advice, acceptance, and occasional meddling provide both comic relief and essential perspective, reinforcing the idea that love is not a solitary endeavor but a communal one.

Analysis

Good Intentions is a contemporary love story that subverts traditional romance tropes by centering emotional honesty, mutual growth, and the courage to choose love in the face of uncertainty. The novel explores the complexities of modern relationships—age gaps, career ambitions, cultural differences, and the fear of missing out on one's dreams—without resorting to melodrama or easy resolutions. Instead, it celebrates the messy, beautiful process of learning to communicate, compromise, and trust. The alternating perspectives invite readers to empathize with both protagonists, revealing that love is not about perfection but about showing up, again and again, with good intentions. The story's ultimate message is that happiness is not found in grand gestures or external achievements, but in the quiet, everyday acts of care, honesty, and presence. By choosing each other, Marcus and Gabe demonstrate that true love is not about sacrifice, but about building a life where both partners can thrive—together.

Last updated: January 1, 2026