Coffee Shop Longings

Colin, a surly, insomniac barista, watches his friend Jay—now a vampire—find love and belonging with his mate, Alexei. Colin is fascinated by the idea of being a vampire's mate, not for romance, but for the sense of safety, acceptance, and the unique pleasure of being bitten. He's not jealous of Jay, but he's left with a hunger for more—more connection, more meaning, more of the supernatural world that now seems just out of reach. When a call comes about his father's stroke, Colin's life is upended, forcing him to return to his hometown of Tucson, where old wounds and new possibilities await.

Homecoming and Old Wounds

Back in Tucson, Colin cares for his recovering father, haunted by memories of his mother's death and a sense of never quite fitting in. He reconnects with old friends, including Jamie, who is now a vampire, and learns that the supernatural world is larger than he thought. Colin's prickly exterior hides a deep loyalty and a longing for acceptance. His father, seeing Colin withdraw from life, pushes him to move out and find his own place, refusing to let Colin use caretaking as an excuse to hide from the world. Colin's search for belonging intensifies, setting the stage for a fateful encounter.

The Vampire Twins' Offer

Driven by curiosity and a desire to be consumed, Colin tracks down Fox and Dane, twin vampires rumored to live nearby. He impulsively offers himself as a blood donor and housemate, negotiating a deal: a place to stay in exchange for blood and answers to his questions about vampirism. The twins, bored and restless, are intrigued by Colin's boldness and scent. They agree to a trial arrangement, sensing that Colin might be the excitement—and connection—they've been missing. The dynamic is set: Colin, the prickly human, and the twins, bonded brothers with a hunger for more.

House of Hungry Shadows

Colin settles into the twins' messy house, quickly taking charge and cleaning up, while the twins shadow his every move. The trio navigates boundaries—Colin's need for autonomy, the twins' desire for closeness, and the unspoken sexual tension simmering beneath the surface. Colin's insomnia and self-neglect worry the twins, who find themselves increasingly protective and drawn to him. The house becomes a crucible for their growing connection, as Colin's curiosity about vampirism and the twins' bond deepens, and the lines between housemates, friends, and something more begin to blur.

Blood, Bites, and Boundaries

The twins finally feed on Colin, and the experience is overwhelming for all three. The bite triggers intense pleasure and vulnerability in Colin, who is both aroused and unsettled by the loss of control. For Fox and Dane, Colin's blood is unlike anything they've tasted, awakening possessive and protective instincts. The trio's dynamic shifts as they navigate the aftermath—Colin retreats to process, while the twins struggle with their own desires and fears of pushing him too far. The feeding becomes a catalyst, breaking down barriers and exposing the raw need for connection on all sides.

The Prickly Human's Rules

Colin, recognizing his own gray-asexuality, sets clear boundaries: he's open to sex, but only on his terms, and won't tolerate pressure or disappointment if things don't go as expected. The twins, surprisingly respectful, agree—what matters most is Colin's presence and consent. This honesty paves the way for deeper intimacy, as Colin allows himself to be vulnerable, and the twins learn to balance their hunger with care. Their relationship becomes a negotiation of needs, desires, and trust, with Colin's autonomy at the center.

Bonded Brothers, Unbonded Hearts

Fox and Dane's history unfolds: once human twins, they were turned by a manipulative vampire, Amelia, after Dane fell ill. Their bond is platonic but as deep as any romantic mate bond, making them outcasts even among vampires. Years of judgment and isolation have left scars, especially for Dane, who fears that no one will ever choose them as they are. Their codependence is both a strength and a vulnerability, and Colin's arrival challenges their belief that they can't have more. The twins' devotion to each other becomes the foundation for a new kind of family.

Drawing Closer, Sleeping Deeper

As days pass, Colin and the twins grow closer—sharing movies, art, and late-night conversations. Colin, usually guarded, finds himself relaxing in their presence, even falling asleep with his head in Dane's lap. The twins, in turn, are captivated by Colin's authenticity and resilience. Their intimacy deepens, culminating in a night of shared pleasure that is both overwhelming and affirming. For the first time, Colin feels truly seen and wanted, not for what he can give, but for who he is. The trio's bond solidifies, hinting at something rare and lasting.

The Ex-Boyfriend Returns

A chance encounter with Derek, Colin's toxic ex, reopens old wounds. Derek's cruelty and gaslighting had left Colin doubting his worth and desirability. With the twins at his side, Colin faces Derek's barbs with newfound strength, refusing to let the past define him. The twins' protective presence and unconditional acceptance help Colin reclaim his sense of self, reinforcing the difference between being wanted for convenience and being cherished for who he is. The confrontation becomes a turning point, allowing Colin to let go of old pain and embrace the possibility of real love.

Family, Found and Chosen

Colin introduces the twins to his father, blending his human and supernatural lives. The meeting is unexpectedly warm, with his dad welcoming the twins and recognizing the care they show Colin. The trio also becomes part of a larger found family, connecting with other vampires and their mates. Colin's friendship with Jay, his bond with Jamie, and the twins' growing acceptance in the community create a network of support and belonging. The lines between blood family and chosen family blur, as Colin realizes he can have both—and that he is, finally, enough.

The Rogue Vampire Threat

A new danger emerges: a rogue vampire, Robert, is turning children in a twisted attempt to create a family for his wife, Serena. The vampire community bands together to stop him, with Serena claiming to want revenge for her own unwanted turning. The threat forces Colin, the twins, and their allies to confront questions of morality, loyalty, and what it means to protect the vulnerable. The hunt for the rogue vampire becomes a test of trust and courage, drawing the trio even closer as they face danger together.

Serena's Deception

Serena's true motives are revealed—she is not a victim, but a co-conspirator, using Colin as leverage to find Riley, the only child who survived being turned. She kidnaps Colin and a young boy, intending to force the vampire community's hand. Under compulsion and with a broken arm, Colin is powerless but defiant, refusing to betray Riley or give in to Serena's threats. The betrayal cuts deep, but also clarifies for Colin and the twins what truly matters: loyalty, love, and the willingness to fight for each other.

Kidnapping and Rescue

The twins, with the help of their allies, track down Serena and Robert, risking their own lives to save Colin and the child. The rescue is violent and cathartic—Serena and Robert are killed, and the immediate threat is ended. Colin's injuries and brush with death force the trio to confront their feelings and fears. Dane, overwhelmed by the thought of losing Colin, finally begs him to stay, to let them turn him and make their bond eternal. Fox, too, confesses his love and possessiveness. For Colin, the choice is clear: he wants to be kept, to belong, to become more.

The Choice to Turn

Colin, healed but exhausted, asks the twins to turn him—not just for the power or the pleasure, but to stay with them, to be part of their family forever. The turning is painful but transformative, a leap of faith into the unknown. As he awakens, Colin feels the new presence of his own "devil," the vampire instinct, and the golden thread of the mate bond tying him to Fox and Dane. The trio's love is affirmed, not just by fate, but by choice—a choice to accept, to trust, and to build a life together.

Becoming More Than Human

As a newly turned vampire, Colin experiences the world with heightened senses and a deep, insatiable hunger—for blood, for touch, for his mates. The trio's bond is electric, their intimacy more intense than ever. Colin's old insecurities fade as he embraces his new self, finding joy in his powers, his art, and the freedom to be exactly who he is. The twins, too, are transformed, their long-held fears of being unlovable or unworthy soothed by Colin's acceptance and love. Together, they are more than the sum of their parts—a true family, chosen and forged in fire.

Mates, Bonds, and Belonging

As the dust settles, Colin, Fox, and Dane navigate the complexities of their new bond—balancing desire, autonomy, and the need for connection. They become part of a larger vampire family, finding acceptance among others who have also chosen love over tradition. Colin's relationship with his father remains strong, and he plans to split his time between Tucson and Hyde Park, refusing to give up any part of his identity. The trio's love is not without challenges, but it is resilient, rooted in loyalty, acceptance, and the courage to ask for more.

New Beginnings, New Family

In the aftermath, the trio builds a new life together—moving, making plans, and celebrating with their found family. Colin's art flourishes, inspired by his experiences and the people he loves. The twins, once outcasts, are now at the center of a vibrant, supportive community. The story ends not with a final resolution, but with the promise of more: more love, more adventures, more of the life they have chosen together. For Colin, Fox, and Dane, the future is wide open—a testament to the power of found family, self-acceptance, and the courage to claim happiness.

Characters

Colin

Colin is a surly, insomniac artist with a sharp tongue and a guarded heart. Scarred by loss and a toxic relationship, he craves acceptance and belonging but fears vulnerability. His fascination with vampires is less about romance and more about the unique intimacy and safety he imagines in being "consumed." Colin's journey is one of self-discovery—learning to set boundaries, ask for what he wants, and accept love without conditions. His gray-asexuality shapes his approach to intimacy, making consent and autonomy central to his relationships. Through his connection with Fox and Dane, Colin finds the family and acceptance he's always longed for, ultimately choosing to become a vampire to stay with them forever.

Fox

Fox is the more outgoing and brash of the twins, quick with a joke or a flirtatious remark. Beneath his swagger lies a deep protectiveness, especially toward Dane and, later, Colin. Fox's devil—the vampire instinct—is strong, driving his possessiveness and hunger, but he tempers it with genuine care and respect for boundaries. His past as an outcast has made him fiercely loyal to those he loves, and he is unafraid to fight for his chosen family. Fox's journey is about learning to balance desire with patience, and to trust that he is worthy of love and belonging.

Dane

Dane is the quieter, more sensitive twin, often taking on the role of caretaker. His bond with Fox is deep and platonic, but years of judgment and isolation have left him self-conscious and hesitant to seek affection. Dane's devil is less vocal but equally powerful, driving his need for closeness and his fear of abandonment. With Colin, Dane learns to accept love and to express his own desires, moving from self-doubt to confidence. His journey is one of healing—letting go of shame, embracing vulnerability, and allowing himself to be kept and cherished.

Jay

Jay is Colin's first real friend in Hyde Park, a newly turned vampire with a sunny disposition and a knack for seeing the best in people. His openness and acceptance help Colin feel safe enough to explore his own desires and boundaries. Jay's relationship with his mate, Alexei, is a model of unconditional love and support, and his presence in Colin's life is a reminder that found family can be just as powerful as blood ties.

Jamie

Jamie is an old friend of Colin's, now a vampire with a penchant for visions and a chaotic sense of humor. His relationship with his mate, Luc, is intense and passionate, providing a contrast to the twins' dynamic. Jamie serves as a bridge between Colin and the wider vampire community, offering support, information, and a sense of belonging.

Serena

Serena is a vampire whose desire for a family leads her down a dark path. Initially presenting herself as a victim, she is ultimately revealed as a co-conspirator in the child-turning scheme, willing to sacrifice others for her own ends. Serena's complexity lies in her mix of genuine pain and monstrous selfishness, serving as a cautionary mirror to the trio's own desires for connection and belonging.

Robert

Robert is Serena's husband and partner in crime, responsible for turning children in a twisted attempt to create a family. His banality is his most chilling trait—he is not a supervillain, but an ordinary man whose selfishness and lack of empathy make him truly dangerous. Robert's actions force the vampire community to confront the darker aspects of their nature and the importance of choice and consent.

Colin's Father

Colin's father is a grounding presence in his life, offering unconditional love and gentle guidance. His own experience with loss and resilience shapes his advice to Colin, encouraging him to seek connection and not to hide from life. Their relationship is a touchstone for Colin, reminding him that acceptance and loyalty are the foundations of lasting love.

Alexei

Alexei is Jay's devoted mate, a powerful vampire with a calm demeanor and a deep well of affection for those he cares about. His relationship with Jay is a model of mutual support and acceptance, and his presence in the story reinforces the theme of found family and the importance of choosing one's own path.

Riley

Riley is the only child to survive being turned by Robert and Serena, living proof that even in the darkest circumstances, resilience and support can lead to healing. Though he appears only briefly, Riley's story is a catalyst for the community's actions and a reminder of the stakes involved in the fight against those who would abuse their power.

Plot Devices

Dual/Triple POV and Rotating Narration

The novel alternates between Colin, Fox, and Dane's points of view, allowing readers to experience the story from each character's unique perspective. This structure deepens the emotional resonance, revealing hidden fears, desires, and motivations. The shifting narration also highlights the differences and similarities between the characters, making their eventual union feel earned and organic.

The Mate Bond

The concept of the mate bond—an unbreakable, often fated connection between vampires and their chosen partners—serves as both a plot engine and a metaphor for the power of chosen family. The twist in this story is the trio bond: Colin, Fox, and Dane are not a traditional pair, but a unique triad, challenging the norms of their world and affirming that love and belonging can take many forms.

Compulsion and Consent

Vampire compulsion—the ability to control others' actions—serves as a plot device to explore themes of consent, autonomy, and trust. Colin's insistence on boundaries, and the twins' respect for his agency, stand in stark contrast to the villains' use of compulsion for harm. The story interrogates the ethics of power and the necessity of true, enthusiastic consent in all relationships.

Found Family and Healing

The novel weaves together themes of found family, healing from trauma, and the courage to ask for more. Colin, Fox, and Dane are all outsiders in their own ways, scarred by loss, rejection, and self-doubt. Through their connection—and the support of a wider community—they learn to trust, to heal, and to build a life that is both chosen and cherished.

Foreshadowing and Parallelism

The story uses foreshadowing and parallelism—Colin's longing for more, the twins' fear of being unlovable, the recurring motif of being "kept"—to build tension and thematic depth. The villains' twisted quest for family serves as a dark mirror to the trio's own search for belonging, highlighting the difference between love rooted in choice and love rooted in control.

Analysis

Colin is a masterclass in queer found family, consent, and the transformative power of chosen love. Through the lens of supernatural romance, Grae Bryan explores the deep human need for acceptance, the courage it takes to ask for more, and the healing that comes from being truly seen. The novel subverts traditional romance tropes by centering a gray-asexual protagonist, a platonic mate bond, and a triad relationship, challenging the idea that love must fit a single mold. The story's heart lies in its insistence that everyone—no matter how prickly, wounded, or different—deserves to be kept, cherished, and chosen. In a world that often punishes vulnerability, Colin, Fox, and Dane's journey is a testament to the radical act of letting oneself be loved, and the joy that comes from building a family on one's own terms.

Last updated: June 1, 2025