The title of this novella is very descriptive of what both main characters go through in this story. There are several lines to cross, for each of them, and as they do, their reactions are quite different. While Paul embraces the changes and is soon ready for more, Ryan is far more hesitant (with good reason). But that isn't the only way in which they are opposites, so to speak. In fact, the biggest difference seems to be the external one, since they play on different football teams each weekend. As it turns out, that is the one obstacle they find comparatively easy to deal with.

Paul, an art teacher who adores his job, has been lusting after the kicker of the opposing team for a very long time. In fact, this adoration was mentioned in the first story of the 'Out of Bounds' anthology. Their first real encounter outside the playing field is a confrontation, and that doesn’t change in a hurry. They become physical before they’ve ever really talked, and that opens up a whole new potential minefield for Paul. He's always felt comfortable following other people's lead, but when he discovers how much following Ryan's orders in the bedroom turns him on, he is shocked. Not for very long, and as he recovers, he jumps headfirst into a totally new, sensual world full of surprises.

Ryan works at a museum, restoring art. He has a dark past, doesn’t want to risk his heart again, and yet, he cannot deny the attraction he feels to Paul. But he's been burned before, so letting his new lover know he likes it kinky is very difficult for Ryan. Especially when Paul promptly retreats after their first encounter. Luckily, Paul returns, and even though they don’t talk as much as they probably should (they are busy with other things, like the handcuffs and the new ball gag, after all), they open up to each other. Ryan is still very skeptical, but at least he doesn’t clam up. Well, not much.

I liked that Paul and Ryan didn't go from opposition to total sunshine and roses within the blink of an eye. They first needed to learn how to accept themselves, and how to be in a relationship. It was wonderful to see how they taught each other, by example if not by discussing it. The heat they generated in the bedroom was certainly enough to make them want to hang in there.

If you like stories about tough guys who learn to compromise and talk, if you enjoy reading about enemies becoming lovers, and if you're looking for a short read with one man reconnecting with his inner Dom and the other discovering his submissive side, then you will probably like this novella.


NOTE: The anthology this story was published in was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )