Palm Canyon Drive

Harper Hughes, Hollywood’s best known cinematographer, finds a new love and a new life after the loss of his life partner. The much younger and long time admirer of his work, Polish/Dutch cinematographer, Stanislau Fluge, comes into his life at exactly the right moment. Harper’s move to the newest and most exclusive residence in Palm Springs allows him to trust again, but he trusts too much. Struggling with personal demons, he wonders if he is too old for a new love and a much younger lover. There are those around him who might conclude that love was much too high a price to pay.

Excerpt:

Harper was shaky on his feet as he reached the podium to present an award for cinematography to a new and upcoming cinematographer, Stanislau Fluge. He presented Stanislau the award and found himself caught off guard by the handsome young Pole sharing the stage with him. A bear hug and peck on the cheek spoke volumes as the older passed the torch to the younger. It was mutual admiration as Stanislau shared his vision of film which had been inspired by none other than Harper Hughes, who had single-handedly created a whole genre of film.

Harper belted down several more drinks and felt his bladder might not hold if he didn’t find his way to the men’s room. Feeling relieved and washing his hands, he caught the young smiling face of the Stanislau Fluge over his right shoulder. Harper smiled back into the mirror and turned to greet him.

“Let me say congratulations again. You are the new force to reckon with in film today.”

A blush came to Stanislau as he replied in a heavy eastern European accent, “Oh, but Mr. Hughes, it has been your work that has inspired me in every way. I must say thanks to you.” Stanislau gave Harper a gentle pat on the back. “Might it be possible, Mr. Hughes, to meet with you sometime at your convenience?”

“I would like that very much, but I insist you call me Harper. “Here’s my card, and please call me whenever you’re back in town and we will make a night of it.”

“Wonderful, but I ask that you call me Stanis.”