Bjorn:

After my parents’ deaths, I devoted myself to raising my younger siblings. It meant growing up fast, but someone had to keep the family together. Romantic relationships weren’t a priority, and my siblings will always come first.

Now we’re all adults with our own lives, though I still guide them where I can. But it takes my near-death experience to refocus on myself. Only, I’m not sure I remember how. Then Kaino Nieminen and Xander Neilsen walk into my hospital room on the same day, at the same time, and I feel like the universe is finally cutting me a much deserved break. Or it’s just another cruel joke.

Xander:

I live to fill eager student’s minds with the wonder that is Dickens and Austen, to debate the merits of Shelley, and dive into the scandalous roots of the Bronte sisters’ novels. Woe betide the graduate student who doesn’t find English Literature fascinating. I have no patience for unenthusiastic students. I’ve been called sharp-tongued, defensive, and dramatic. Not usually traits that win friends and influence students. Or Deans in the English department. Or romantic partners.

Except for Bjorn Osouf. Our fleeting but passionate relationship is burned into my memory, like the glowing embers of Manderlay. When the fool plays hero and almost gets himself killed during a hostage situation, I know it’s time to find him and reconnect. As expected, there’s still a spark between us. What I don’t anticipate is the imminently fascinating Kaino Nieminen, or my inconvenient attraction to them.

Kaino:

Making personal connections is a challenge when you’re a non-binary, casual-touch-averse, demisexual. It takes time to really get to know a person before I’m comfortable with casual touch. It takes even longer for anything romantic to develop, and believe me, most people aren’t that patient. 

I found solace in shibari. My issues with touch disappear in my focus to achieve true artistry with the rope, and for years, it’s been enough. Then the only person who ever took the time to know and accept me as I am almost dies. Before I know it, I’m in Bjorn Osouf’s hospital room, and the instant reconnection between us has me eager to give things one more try. Then Xander Neilsen walks in and throws a wrench into my plan.

Complete Me is a low-angst, MXM, opposites attract, second chance contemporary LGBTQ+ romance about unexpected connections, being more than two halves of a whole, and finding the perfect fit, even if it’s not quite as expected. It contains no cheating and has a guaranteed happily ever after.