I’ve really been enjoying the Out in College series by Lane Hayes. Out in the Offense is the third book in the series but each one does stand alone very well. You will see characters from the previous books but they don’t play a significant role in Out in the Offense.

Christian is the quarterback of his college football team and he’s deep in the closet. While his football skills are outstanding, he’s not so hot at math. At risk of losing his place on the team if he doesn’t pass statistics, his coach hires him a tutor. Enter Rory, an out and proud former college wrestler and math genius.

From the minute they meet, Christian can’t seem to stop his far from platonic feelings for Rory and it is soon apparent that Rory is feeling the same way. Rory is understanding of Christian’s desire to stay in the closet – he didn’t come out until after he graduated – but he also knows that it’s causing a lot of stress for for him to keep hiding his true self.

The chemistry between Christian and Rory was off the charts hot! I felt for Christian – his parents were conservative religious people and he knew that they wouldn’t accept the fact that he is gay. He’s also afraid of how his teammates would handle it. As quarterback and team captain he has a strong leadership role and he’s afraid his coming out might ruin that.

I really love a good epilogue and very much enjoyed the one for Out in the Offense. This is a story that really touched my emotions. I don’t know if there will be more books in this series or not but I sure hope so.

I almost forgot to say how much I like Rory’s cat’s name. ? (It’s Buttons.)

Reviews for Lane Hayes

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“Can I do anything to help?” I asked, setting my backpack on one of the two barstools at the narrow counter space.

“Nope. As soon as the veggies are sautéed, we’ll be ready to eat. Want something to drink?”

“Yes, please. Water is fine. Where’s Buttons?”

Rory pulled a water bottle from the small fridge behind him and handed it over, then pointed at a basket next to the sofa.

“She’s hiding behind that basket. She’ll make an appearance if she decides you’re worthy. In the meantime, there’s bread in that basket on the counter next to your bag. Help yourself. I’ll bring dinner out.”

I thanked him, then twisted the cap from the water bottle and took a generous sip before rounding the corner in search of the bread. I was ravenous. I bit into the baguette with gusto before turning to check out my surroundings.

Rory’s apartment was tiny. Probably half the size of mine and much older. But unlike the rough exterior, it was…pleasant. Surprisingly so. A short wall delineated the narrow kitchen from the main living area. There was just enough room for a sofa, an ottoman, a TV console, and a smallish television. Two barstools were tucked under the small peninsula by the cut-out in the kitchen wall. The palette was basic “dude”…dark leather against stark white walls, though a large red throw rug anchored the room and provided a nice splash of color. It was simple—but tidy and very clean.

“Your place is cool,” I commented when he entered the room, carrying two plates and a large bowl.

“Thanks. Let’s sit on the sofa. We have more room to eat there,” he said decisively as he set his burden on the coffee table. “Help yourself. I’ll get some forks, napkins, and extra veggies.”
I obeyed and quickly got to work, scooping chicken fettucine Alfredo onto both plates. Rory joined me a minute later, handing over the silverware before taking a seat next to me. I shot a bashful sideways glance at him as I reached for a napkin.

“Do you eat like this every night?”

“It’s really nothing special. I make sauces in bulk and freeze them. Then it’s just a matter of adding protein and veggies. By the way, this Alfredo is a healthy version. If you want to drown it in parmesan, feel free. I won’t be offended. Cheers.” He tapped his water bottle against mine and winked.

“Cheers. And thanks again. This is incredible and very unexpected.” I smiled as I twisted the pasta around my fork.

“You’re welcome. You sounded anxious, but you said we’re cool. Are we?”

“Of course.”

Rory tilted his head and shot me a challenging look. “Then kiss me.”

“Um…now?”

“Yeah, now. The other night could have been a fluke. Instead of wondering, let’s get it over with. One kiss should be enough to tell. C’mere,” he commanded, leaning sideways.
I set my fork down and met him halfway until our noses brushed. Then I waited for him to make the next move. He stayed stubbornly still. When I couldn’t stand the growing tension, I pressed my lips to his. And wow…amazing.

Rory was a great kisser. He had the simple art of give-and-take down to a science. He molded his mouth to mine and gently pushed his tongue inside. The connection was sweet but bold. It was more about discovery than possession. I hummed as I snaked my arm around his neck, pulling him closer. He sucked my tongue, then bit my bottom lip playfully before pulling back.

“Definitely not a fluke,” he said with a devilish grin.

Out in College Series

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