How much love does it take to heal the wounds of hate? Sam and Charlie have been together over a decade, and their commitment to each other has only grown stronger through the years. But love isn't always easy, and eighteen months after a violent assault, their relationship is struggling. Charlie can’t shake the lingering fear of attracting more violence by displaying affection, and he's angry at himself for not getting past it. Sam would do anything to help Charlie feel better—if only he knew what to do. The century-old farmhouse in Northwest Oregon is the perfect place to spend the holidays with Sam’s family, but it was their refuge after the attack, and it still holds painful memories of those difficult first months. Christmas should be a joyful time, but even being surrounded by people who love him isn’t enough to make Charlie feel safe. They agreed not to exchange gifts but Sam has a surprise planned that he hopes will make everything merry and bright. But he may end up more surprised than Charlie. NOTE: This is a previously published work. First edition published 2012 by Etopia Press under the title Comfort and Joy.