Confessions

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A Total-E-Bound Publication

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Confessions ISBN #978-0-85715-818-5 ©Copyright Carol Lynne 2011 Cover Art by April Martinez ©Copyright November 2011 Edited by Claire Siemaszkiewicz Total-E-Bound Publishing This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Total-E-Bound Publishing. Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Total-E-Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution. The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork. Published in 2011 by Total-E-Bound Publishing, Think Tank, Ruston Way, Lincoln, LN6 7FL, United Kingdom.

Warning: This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has a heat rating of Total-e-sizzling and a sexometer of 2.

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Cattle Valley

CONFESSIONS Carol Lynne

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Book twenty five in the Cattle Valley Series Government contracted mercenary, James ‘Priest’ Evans, slides back into town after a mission gone very wrong. Haunted by his latest kill, Priest’s job is weighing heavily on his mind for the first time in memory. In Cattle Valley to heal and re-evaluate his life, Priest didn’t expect love but that’s exactly where’s he’s headed. After a devastating and very public breakup, Luke Hatcher has given up on love. He’s more than happy to enjoy hot and heavy sex, but that’s as far as he’s willing to go. When he runs into Priest, Luke believes their mutual lack of trust is perfect for a short-term holiday affair. Their steamy affair takes an unexpected turn when Priest makes a bedroom confession that will forever change the way he views life and love. Will the confession bring them closer together, or will it send Luke packing?

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Dedication I’d like to take a moment to thank all the authors, readers and publishers who attended the GayRomLit Retreat in New Orleans. I’ve been to quite a few romance conferences, and never have I felt more at peace than I did in New Orleans. Not once did I have to justify my love for this genre. The hours upon hours of work required to put the Retreat together was incredibly worth it. I left New Orleans with a full tank, something I’d been struggling with the last year or so. Bless you all who attended the weekend, and thank you for giving me back my belief that most people are inherently good.

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Velcro: Velcro Industries Jeep: Chrysler Group LLC Chevy: General Motors Smith & Wesson: Smith and Wesson Corp. Google: Google, Inc. Harley Davidson: H-D Michigan The Game of Life: Hasbro, Inc. Walmart Supercenter: Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Field and Stream: Field & Stream Licences Company Chrysler 3000: Chrysler Group LLC

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CONFESSIONS

Carol Lynne

6

Chapter One

Luke Hatcher’s hands shook as he tightened the laces on his running shoes. When he tied the bow, his gaze went to the bloody uniform shirt wadded into a ball beside the front door. He’d worked hundreds of car accidents but none of them had been as horrific as the one hours earlier. He rubbed his eyes with the heels of his hands in the hope that he could erase the images. When that didn’t work, Luke did what he’d always done when thoughts of spilled blood filled his mind. Throwing open the front door, Luke took off at a brisk pace. Despite the predawn hour and having gone without sleep after a long shift, he yearned for the mental release only running provided. His normal stretching routine didn’t seem as important as the heart-pounding adrenaline he’d learned to use to replace the memories. Clad only in a thin pair of jogging shorts, the cold October night felt good against Luke’s bare skin as his feet hit the pavement. As he started his usual circuit around the streets of Cattle Valley, the mutilated body of the teenage girl resurfaced in the forefront of his mind. It didn’t take a psychiatrist to tell him why the girl’s death had affected him more than all the others he’d witnessed in his line of work. Suddenly the girl’s face morphed into the image of his mother. Luke shook his head, trying to rid himself of the disturbing memory before he lost what little food he’d eaten in the last twentyfour hours. Although the temperature was below freezing, sweat poured from Luke’s head and chest as he continued his five-point-six mile circuit around the older part of Cattle Valley. He preferred to bypass the new subdivisions that had begun to pop up on the outskirts. Although the homes were each unique and well-constructed, they just didn’t hold the appeal the matured-treed neighbourhoods of the older section of town.

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Carol Lynne

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There was one house in particular that always welcomed him. As he neared the home at the end of the dark lane, Luke slowed to a stop like he did most days. He bent over and rested his hands on his knees as he tried to control his laboured breathing. Luke stared at the structure, which was in a state of disrepair. The pillars on the front corners of the porch made the sagging roof appear to frown. If it was possible for a house to have a soul, he had no doubt the home at 226 Cherry Street would have been crying. Luke had gone to City Hall to enquire as to who now owned the house, but received little information in return. The abandoned home belonged to no one Luke had ever heard of. The only information he got out of Carol was that the original owner was in a nursing home in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the taxes were paid yearly in cash by her estate. It was a pity the home had been allowed to fall into such disrepair. It was hard for Luke to imagine he was looking at the same house that his mom had kept spotless with a profusion of colourful flowers decorating the front porch and walk. Of course he could have an idealised version of what it had once been, since before he’d been forced to move after the death of his mother. When the porch light next door turned on, Luke knew it was time to go. He stretched his arms over his head before heading back down the street the way he’d come. The daily period of rest in front of the abandoned house always served to settle Luke’s demons. “Better than therapy,” Luke said as he continued down the street at a brisk pace. By the time he reached the alley behind the shops downtown, the fall sky was starting to brighten. Luke tilted his head back to smell the aromatic scent of cinnamon rolls that always permeated the morning air. God bless Kyle and his need to bake before the sun rose. Lost in the smells wafting from the bakery, Luke wasn’t paying attention to the road in front of him. When his right foot landed in an unexpected hole in the gravel

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Carol Lynne

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path, Luke’s knee hyper-extended, pitching him forward. He fell to the ground with a howl of pain as the sharp rocks dug into his hands and forearms. “Fuck!” Luke rolled onto his back for a few moments before sitting up. One look at his knee had Luke shaking his head. The swelling had already begun. He supported the underside of his knee and slowly attempted to straighten his leg. It was painful, but he doubted he’d done serious damage. After a quick scan of the surrounding area, Luke realised he was going to have to stand without anyone’s help unless he wanted to half-crawl, half-drag himself across the gravel to the back of one of the buildings. A noise from the shadowed dumpsters caught his attention. “Hello?” he called, hoping for help. When no one answered and the alley was quiet once again, he decided it must’ve been a cat or some vermin he didn’t want to dwell on. Clenching his teeth, Luke slowly got to his feet without having to use every dirty word in his repertoire although he did utter quite a few. With the majority of his weight shifted to his left leg, Luke began the slow process of walking down the alley. Although there wasn’t anything open at that time of morning, he knew Kyle was already hard at work in the bakery. If he could make it to the end of the alley and across the street without either collapsing or crying it would be a miracle. Overhead a light turned on in one of the apartments that lined the upper floors of the downtown shopping area. Luke stared up at the welcoming light. “Hello?” he shouted towards the apartment window. Several moments later, Deacon McConnell parted the white café curtains and stared down into the alley. Luke waved his arms over his head while trying to maintain his balance. He pointed towards his injured knee. Deacon nodded before letting the curtains fall closed. It took close to five minutes, but eventually the back door of Falling Limbs Creations opened. “Something wrong?” he asked. “A hole in the road got the better of my knee. Mind if I use your phone to call someone to come get me?” Luke asked. www.total-e-bound.com

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With the aid of an intricately carved cane, Deacon made his way into the alley. As far as Luke knew, no one in town had dared ask Deacon how he’d damaged his leg. It wasn’t that they were afraid of Deacon, but the man definitely didn’t put out the kind of vibe that welcomed conversation. Deacon gestured towards an older model Jeep. “Stay there and I’ll pick you up.” With the sweat drying on his skin, Luke began to shiver in the cold morning air. He glanced towards the dumpster again. Why did he feel like someone was watching him? He narrowed his eyes and tried to see through the darkness to what was hidden in the shadows. The Jeep pulling up beside him drew his attention away from the eerie feeling. He opened the door and carefully hoisted himself into the passenger seat. “You have a cat?” “Yeah,” Deacon answered. “Why?” Luke nodded towards the dumpster. “I heard some noises. Just wondered what it could be.” “Tabby’s inside sound asleep in my bed. Must’ve been someone else’s cat.” “Yeah, you’re probably right.”

**** With his knee in a brace, Luke reported for work early Monday morning. He’d spent the remainder of Sunday in bed and stretched out on the couch, but despite the hours of rest, he was exhausted. For the first time since becoming an Emergency Medical Technician, Luke couldn’t escape an accident scene. His first stop was Leo Burkowski’s office. With the assistant chief on the phone, Luke waited patiently just outside the open door. “Yes, Ma’am, I completely agree,” Leo replied into the phone. “I’ll send a few of my men over around lunch-time so they can get a better feel for what you need.” Luke’s spine stiffened. With his knee functioning at less than one hundred per cent, he had a bad feeling he’d be one of the guys sent to the school. The car accident that had resulted in the death of seventeen-year-old Kati Hargrove—and the lifewww.total-e-bound.com

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threatening injuries of her eighteen-year-old best friend Clint Stowers—had cast a dark cloud over the entire town. Leo hung up the phone before motioning Luke into his office. His gaze went to the heavy black Velcro brace around Luke’s knee. “Something you need to tell me?” Luke took a seat, stretching his right leg out in front of him. “Hyperextension, but I’m okay to work.” Leo rubbed his jaw. It was only seven in the morning and already Leo seemed to have a five o’clock shadow. “You really think you can lift a backboard with a patient’s dead weight on it in your condition?” “I can do what needs to be done.” Luke knew he should’ve called in sick, but he needed the concentration his job required. He still couldn’t close his eyes without seeing what was left of Kati’s youthful face. “Principal Quigley needs help at the school. She’s called in Dr Pritchard and Dr Singer, but with over four hundred students, she needs more understanding men and women to help the children through this recent tragedy,” Leo explained. “I’m not the best person for the job, sir.” How could Luke help children deal with the death of their classmate when he couldn’t get himself over the accident? Luke could tell by Leo’s raised eyebrows that he was about to issue an order, one that Luke would be forced to obey if he wanted to keep his job. He’d never talked to anyone about his mother except Kenny. “I lost my mother in a car accident almost twenty-three years ago, and I’m still not over it. Needless to say, I don’t think I’m the best man to help those kids deal with their feelings at the moment.” “Or, maybe you’re the perfect man to help them. There’s nothing wrong with being sad as long as you can help them understand that life must go on.” “Respectfully, sir, I’d really rather not. How can I look into their crying eyes knowing first-hand how their friend died?” Leo leaned further back in his chair and clasped his hands behind his head. “Want me to make you an appointment with Dr Pritchard?” “I don’t need a shrink. I need a hypnotist.” Luke got to his feet. “Can I go back to work or are you planning to fire me if I don’t go to the school?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Leo gestured to the brace on Luke’s knee. “Take a sick day. I’ll give Aaron a call and see if he’s had enough sleep to come in.” Spending another day on the couch didn’t appeal to Luke. “I really can work. I didn’t do any damage. Dr Brown just thought it would be a good idea to wear the brace for a few days.” “You’re a pain in my ass, you know that, Hatcher?” “I’ve been told that a time or two, sir,” Luke agreed. “And stop calling me sir. It’s irritating.” “That’s why I do it,” Luke said with a grin, before leaving Leo’s office. He made his way into the station lounge and eased into his favourite recliner beside Jakob. “Wild weekend?” Jakob asked, gesturing to Luke’s knee. Wild? Luke snorted. He hadn’t had sex since his thwarted evening with Priest. “I wish. Nope, I stepped into a hole while running yesterday morning.” “Ouch. That sucks, man.” Jakob tapped his fingertips on the arm of the chair. It was obvious he wanted to talk, but wasn’t sure what to say. The two of them had worked the Saturday night shift, so Jakob had witnessed everything Luke had. “You know there was nothing you could’ve done, right?” Jakob asked. Luke nodded before clearing his throat. Kati had died by the time they arrived on scene, but it was obvious she had lived long enough to traumatise her best friend forever. “What does it say about me that I wish she’d have died on impact?” Jakob bumped his fist against Luke’s hand. “I’ve thought of nothing else since we cut that boy out of the car.” It was nice to know he wasn’t the only one who couldn’t get the images of that late night out of his mind. “Have you called the hospital to check on Clint?” Luke asked. “Yeah, but they couldn’t tell me much. Just that he spent most of yesterday on the operating table.” “What’re his chances, did they say?” Jakob shook his head. “Too early to say. I thought I might take a trip to Sheridan tomorrow to check on him if you want to go?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Since taking the job in Cattle Valley, Luke had regularly checked up on victims he’d rescued. Unfortunately, visiting Clint in the ICU wasn’t something he felt comfortable with. “Sorry, I’ve already got plans, but definitely call me and let me know how he’s doing.” Luke was saved from further explanation by his ringing cell phone. One look at the display and his mood lightened. “Excuse me,” he told Jakob as he got to his feet. He walked across the room towards the kitchen before answering. “Hey.” “Hey, buddy,” Kenny greeted. “Just heard you were on duty Saturday night. Thought I’d call to see how you’re doing?” “Not good,” he admitted. The truth said a lot about his friendship with Kenny. The two of them had been through a lot together, and Kenny had never let him down. “I can’t stop thinking about my mom.” “I was afraid of that. Are you working today?” “Yeah. Beats sitting home feeling sorry for myself. How’re things at the school?” Luke opened the junk cabinet and withdrew a package of cookies. “Pretty bad, but I can get away if you need to talk,” Kenny offered. “I can’t, but I’m off tomorrow. Maybe Eli would let you out of his clutches long enough to have a beer.” Luke took a bite of the generic oatmeal cookie. He liked them best once they’d gone soft from being opened too long. “Or you could come over for dinner,” Kenny offered. “Thanks, but I’d rather you came over for a beer. No offence, but I’d rather not break down in front of your guy.” “And is that what you feel like doing?” Luke shook his head. “What are you some kind of psychiatrist now?” He tossed the half-eaten cookie into the trash. “Nope, just a friend.” “Yeah.” Luke took a deep calming breath. “Why can’t I get over this? I deal with this kind of shit every damn day.” “I can’t answer that because although bits and pieces have gotten out about how Kati died, I wasn’t there.”

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From the kitchen, Luke wandered into the dorm room lined with twin beds. He sat on his usual bed and tried to push the memories away. “It’s all too fresh to try and analyse it.” After several moments, Kenny finally spoke. “I’m worried about you.” “Don’t be. I’ve dealt with this shit for years. It’ll slide to the back burner again in a day or two.” “Maybe the problem is that you’ve left it on the back burner for too long. It’s time you deal with this shit once and for all,” Kenny tried to argue. How was he supposed to deal with the face of his dying mother begging him to save her? “You don’t know what you’re talking about. Look, I gotta go. A call just came in.” “With no warning buzzer? You’re a damn liar, but I love you anyway. Meet me at O’Brien’s tomorrow at six.” “Sure,” Luke mumbled. The best thing about his bond with Kenny was that his friend never took his temper to heart. “If you need to talk before then I’m only a phone call away,” Kenny added. “I know.” Luke took a deep breath. “I love you, too. You know that right?” “Goes without saying, buddy,” Kenny said before hanging up. Luke stared at his phone for several moments before slipping it back into his breast pocket. Although he loved Kenny like a brother, there were times when he needed more than a friendly hug. Stretch McGee came immediately to mind. Damn he’d loved that traitor. He didn’t doubt that part of his current mood had something to do with the media reports that Stretch was finally separating from his wife. How much of a doormat was he that he secretly hoped Stretch would suddenly show up in town to whisk him away? I’m such a loser.

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CONFESSIONS

Carol Lynne

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Chapter Two

James ‘Priest’ Evans stared at the ringing phone. For three days, headquarters had called him continually, but Priest wasn’t ready to answer. Everywhere he looked, on TV and in the papers, the details of his greatest sin continued to haunt him. Why hadn’t he taken the vacation he’d promised himself instead of accepting the assignment? The answer came to him in a flash. The million dollar payday. “Dammit!” Priest slammed his fist against the dashboard. He should’ve known something wasn’t right from the beginning. His usual fee to do a job was half as much, and Priest was considered to be the highest paid enforcer at the agency. Vanity and greed had prompted him to postpone his vacation the moment the job had come in. When headlights appeared in his rear-view mirror, Priest’s chest tightened. He was on a country road with nowhere to go but forward. With one hand on the wheel, he leaned over and removed his Smith and Wesson semiautomatic pistol from the glove box and set it beside him on the seat. When the car behind him turned off the county road and into one of the long driveways, Priest exhaled. “Pull yourself together,” he grumbled. He drove to the small house he’d purchased between Sheridan and Cattle Valley. The house was another change in his life he refused to examine too closely. During one of his down moments on a job, Priest had idly been surfing the Internet. For some unknown reason, he’d begun to search available real estate in or around Cattle Valley. The small white clapboard house on sixty acres looked like it had seen better days, but the photographs of the property surrounding the home had caught his attention. With the help of a wire transfer from a bank in Switzerland, in a matter of days Priest had become the proud owner of his first house. He’d told himself it would be a good idea to find a hidey-hole in case trouble came his way, but deep inside he knew there were other reasons for buying the property. www.total-e-bound.com

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He drove around back and parked the twenty-year-old pickup in the detached garage. The truck was also a new purchase. The rusted brown Chevy was completely different from his usual. He’d thought more than once there was a strong chance he was in the beginning stages of a complete mental breakdown. For years he’d loved the dangerous life he led, so why a couple of weeks in Cattle Valley had seemed to change him so profoundly he still couldn’t wrap his mind around. He grabbed the three bags of groceries he’d purchased in Sheridan and stuck the handgun in his waistband before letting himself into the house. After putting away the groceries, Priest moved to the bedroom. He removed the floorboards he’d loosened earlier and stared down at the mini cache of guns, money and false identities. I should just disappear, he thought for the hundredth time. So why hadn’t he? Priest removed one of the disposable cell phones he kept on hand and his scrambler before replacing the floorboards. He’d barely stepped foot in the kitchen when the agency phone started ringing again. “Fuck it,” he cursed, reaching for the phone. Before answering, he turned on the scrambler and a recording of beach noise. After all, he was supposed to be vacationing on the beach. “You lied to me,” he accused. “Secured?” Alan Jeffries, Priest’s handler asked. “This isn’t my first rodeo,” Priest growled. “I didn’t lie. The client requested you receive minimal information. I gave you enough to do your job. Nothing more was necessary.” “Bullshit. You didn’t tell me everything because you knew I wouldn’t have gone through with it.” Priest took a deep breath. The job had been his last as far as he was concerned. “Why isn’t the money in my account?” “Because the client is under a watchful eye,” Jeffries announced. “Too damn bad. You tell him to either pay up or expect a visit.” “It’s not as cut and dried as that. The money has to come from several sources. It’ll just take time.” “Time for what?” Priest rubbed his forehead. Had the agency discovered his desire to retire? Fuck. If they’d found out without him going through the proper www.total-e-bound.com

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channels, the agency would believe he’d gone rogue. Bob Fisher pleading for his life flashed to the forefront of his mind. Priest had been hired to eliminate his on-againoff-again partner when it was discovered Fisher had received a large advance from a publisher for his memoirs. “Time for the story to die down. What the hell is wrong with you?” Jeffries asked. “Well you’d better convince him otherwise. I was told she lived alone. No one said anything about a couple of old people! What the hell kind of immoral clients are you accepting anyway?” “You of all people have no right to question someone else’s morality,” Jeffries replied. “The fuck I don’t! I’m done. Tell the higher ups that if I don’t get my money heads will roll.” “There’s no need to bring anyone else into this. I’ll talk to the client.” “You do that. I’ll expect my money by morning.” Priest hung up. He turned off the recording and scrambler before opening the cupboard. What the fuck had he just done? The agency may be government sanctioned, but only the highest levels of the executive branch knew they existed. Therefore, the agency was cleared to police themselves in whatever way they felt necessary. He opened a can of pork and beans and ate them cold as he tried to come up with a plan. A man didn’t just quit the agency. Although a few had managed to get out, it had been a long, drawn-out process. Even Al Jessup, Priest’s best friend and former assassin, still had agents watching him from time to time. Jessup was the closest thing Priest had to a real friend. He could always talk the situation over with him. Life could get very interesting for Priest and it might not hurt to have Jessup watching his back. The agency didn’t take kindly to threats from their contractors. Priest rinsed out the empty can and tossed it into the recycle bin. He’d covered his tracks to Cattle Valley well. As far as Jeffries and everyone else knew, Priest was enjoying the sun in one of the out-of-the-way tropical locations he’d always favoured. No one would expect him to be in Wyoming. www.total-e-bound.com

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Hell, he was as surprised as anyone that he was here. When the shit had gone down in Virginia, the first place Priest had thought to run was Cattle Valley and his new home. More disturbing was the reason he’d thought of heading to Wyoming. Luke Hatcher. Maybe laying low in Cattle Valley would give him a chance to work Luke out of his system. It never took much for Priest to get bored with a sex partner. So far Jessup had been the one exception to that rule, and they hadn’t fucked for years. Priest ran his palm over the bulge pressing against his zipper. The little twins in Bogotá had been fun for a few days, but even they weren’t enough to sustain his cravings for long. Perhaps going a few rounds with Luke would help his concentration. With a smile on his face, Priest began to undress. After a quick shower, he put on a pair of jeans and a white silk-blend T-shirt. The fabric appeared almost sheer against his dark brown skin, leaving little of Priest’s chest to the imagination. “Perfect,” he said to his reflection in the bathroom mirror. He rubbed his jaw, wondering if he should take the time to shave. “Nah, you’re still sexy as hell,” he reminded himself. Although he wasn’t traditionally handsome, Priest had never had to work at getting a man into bed. Whether it was his massive stature or the aura of danger that surrounded him, he didn’t know. Whatever it was, gay men of all sizes and colours seemed drawn to him. Happily, Priest always had the pick of the litter to fuck.

The first night he’d spotted Luke in O’Brien’s, he’d done just that. He’d grinned at the heavily tattooed man and waited for Luke to move through the crowd towards him. Priest had held out his hand and without a word, he’d led Luke towards the front door of the bar. With no time to spare for the luxury of a bed, Priest had ushered Luke to his rented Chrysler 300. “Sweet ride,” Luke had said, sliding into the passenger seat. “I hope so,” Priest had answered, his desire evident in the deep, gravelled tone of his voice. “Name’s Luke.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Without giving Luke his name in return, Priest had reclined the driver’s seat as far back as it would go and unzipped his jeans. Like a moth to a flame, Luke wasted no time covering the crown with his mouth. With his eyes closed, Priest had rested one hand in Luke’s thick shoulderlength brown hair while the other explored Luke’s jean-encased ass. He’d had thoughts of ripping the denim seam open to get to the hole he’d been dying to feel sliding down his cock. Evidently he hadn’t been the only one needing more because suddenly Luke had released Priest’s cock and had begun to strip out of his own clothing. Priest’s first real look at the tattoos covering Luke’s upper torso, hips and groin had been in the dim light shining through the heavily tinted car windows. Naked, Luke had straddled Priest’s lap, but when he’d moved in for a kiss, Priest’s head had reared back. “No kissing,” he’d grumbled. “Seriously? That’s one of the best parts of fuckin’.” Priest had turned his head to the side and reached for the lube hidden in the console between the seats. “No kissing. You wanna fuck or what?” Luke’s eyes had narrowed as Priest had begun working a finger in and out of his ass. “What if I say no?” Luke had asked. “Then you’ll never know the joy of riding this fat cock you seem so enamoured with.” Priest had then added a second finger. “Why no kissing?” “Because this is about fucking. Nothing more.” Luke had lifted himself off Priest. At first Priest had believed the smaller man was going to bail, but Luke had simply produced a condom from the back pocket of his discarded jeans. He’d slowly rolled the condom down Priest’s length before sighing. “Someday you’re gonna regret not taking your time with me. And when that day happens, I hope you come back to beg me for more,” Luke had told him. “Don’t hold your breath, kid. Rarely do I go back for seconds.”

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Lowering himself a half-inch at a time onto Priest’s cock, Luke had smiled. “Oh, but you haven’t really had the full meal yet. This is just an appetiser, something to tease you with until you figure out how to do me right.”

Priest shook his head, bringing him out of the memory that had replayed in his dreams for months. Whether it was Luke’s challenging words or the feel of his tight little body enveloping Priest’s cock, he still didn’t know, but Luke’s words had come back to bite him in the ass. After shoving his feet into his boots, Priest left the house through the back door and climbed into his car. Digging the disposable cell phone out of his pocket, he called his old friend. “Hello?” Brac answered. “Since you answered Jessup’s phone, I take it the two of you haven’t killed each other yet,” Priest said. “How do you know I’m not standing over his bleeding body as we speak?” Brac asked, playing along. “Because every good assassin knows you don’t answer a dead man’s phone. It’s against the rules.” Priest grinned as he drove down the grass-covered gravel driveway. Despite the fact that Brac was steadily getting nailed by Priest’s only longterm fuck buddy, Priest liked the guy. “Damn. You caught me. He’s in the kitchen getting me a beer.” “I’m in town,” Priest announced. “I’m headed towards O’Brien’s and thought the two of you would like to join me.” “When’d you get here?” Brac asked. “A few minutes ago.” The lie rolled smoothly off Priest’s tongue. “So are you up for a night of rowdy drinking?” “Why don’t you just come by? We’ve got plenty in the fridge.” “Because I can’t get me a piece of ass at your place. Unless you’re offering?” he quickly added. “Dreamer. Hang on.”

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Priest heard Brac tell Jessup who was on the phone. The growl emitted by his old friend didn’t bode well for Priest’s night of catching up. “What the fuck are you doing in town?” Jessup asked. “I’ve left you about twenty fucking messages, you asshole.” Priest bit his bottom lip to keep himself from laughing. “I love you, too, sweetheart. I’ve been busy, but I’m here now. You want to meet me at O’Brien’s or what?” “We’ll be there in thirty minutes. Prepare to have your ass kicked.” Jessup hung up the phone before Priest had a chance to answer the threat. God, it felt good to be close to Jessup again.

**** With Eli Sanchez buried under a pile of research papers yet to grade, Kenny sat across from Luke. Luke finished off his beer before signalling for yet another. “You haven’t slept much, have you?” Kenny asked, nursing his second beer of the night. Luke stared at his best friend through gritty, swollen eyes. “What do you think?” Kenny reached across the table and squeezed Luke’s hand. “I think you need a vacation.” “I think I need a lobotomy.” Although he wasn’t drunk, Luke was well on his way. Perhaps if he got wasted, he’d fall into bed and pass out for ten hours of uninterrupted sleep. He’d loved his mother more than any other person in his life, but another night of reliving her death would surely push him over the edge. Moby set another beer in front of Luke and removed the empty glass. “Anything else I can get you?” Luke shook his head. “Not unless you’ve given up on that ugly sonofabitch behind the bar.” Moby chuckled. “And give up all this?” He gestured to the room around him. “What would I tell all my admirers?”

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“That you’ve finally come to your senses,” Luke replied. He smiled up at Moby. “But that’s okay. Sean’s a hell of a lot bigger than I am and he seems determined to keep you for himself.” “I hope so.” Moby grinned before taking off back across the bar. “Holy fuck!” Kenny exclaimed, looking at something over Luke’s left shoulder. “That’s the biggest black dude I’ve ever seen in my life.” Luke’s heart rate sped up, but he refused to look behind him. He only knew one man who fit that description. “His name’s Priest.” “Priest? That guy you’re always talking about every time you get drunk and horny?” “Yeah.” Luke decided to make sure they were talking about the same man. “Seven foot, African-American with a bald head and a tattoo on his neck?” “Shit.” Kenny sighed and nodded his head. “What is it with you and guys twice your size?” Luke remembered the girth and length of Priest’s cock and grinned. “I like ‘em big.” He leaned towards Kenny. “What’s he doing now?” “Waiting for his drink. But he’s staring at me like he’d love nothing more than to remove my head from my body.” Kenny pulled his wallet out and slapped a twenty on the table. “I think it’s time for me to go. You staying?” “Hell yeah.” Luke’s cock had already begun to harden. “And I took tomorrow off so don’t call me in the morning.” Kenny stood and withdrew an envelope from his coat pocket. “Eli wanted me to give you these. They’re the doubles from the pictures he took at the barbecue.” “Thanks.” Luke glanced inside the envelope. The pictures had been taken several months ago. “I know how much shit you’re dealing with. Don’t lose your head over that guy just because it’s easier than dealing with your problems.” Luke stared up at Kenny. The man was more than a best friend, always had been. After Luke’s mom had died and his aunt had moved to town to look after him, Kenny’s family had welcomed him into their home with open arms. Looking back, Luke knew the reason Kenny’s parents wanted him there was because it kept Kenny www.total-e-bound.com

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busy and out of their hair. None of that mattered. For a six-year-old boy who had just lost the one stable force in his life, Kenny had quickly become his everything. “Love you, bro.” “Love you, too.” Kenny yanked on a handful of Luke’s hair playfully. “Give me a call tomorrow once you roll out of bed.” “Will do.” After Kenny left, Luke waited for Priest to approach the table. He thumbed through the pictures to keep himself busy, but his mind was on the man behind him. Ten minutes into a fresh beer, Luke finally turned around. His gaze roamed the bar until it landed in the darkest corner, the one reserved for making out. Luke had spent many Friday and Saturday nights in that same damn corner. Of course that was before Priest had come into town and ruined his love life. Priest was sitting at a table with Al Jessup and Brac Riesling. As if sensing Luke’s stare, Priest broke off his conversation and turned his head to look directly at Luke. With a crook of his finger, Priest beckoned Luke over. Although he knew he would probably come off as too anxious, Luke got to his feet and stuffed the envelope into his back pocket. With the knee brace still in place, he made his way across the bar. Priest’s black eyebrows drew together as he watched Luke’s awkward limp. Before Luke reached the table, Jessup and Brac turned to stare at him. Jessup said something to Priest that Luke couldn’t hear, but the irritated expression on Priest’s face told him the big man didn’t appreciate it. Priest stood and took Luke’s beer from him. “You okay?” “Yeah,” Luke answered, allowing Priest to guide him down onto a chair. “Stepped into a pothole while jogging.” Like the first time they’d met, Priest’s touch sent Luke’s body into overdrive. With his leg stretched out to the side of the table, Luke reached for his beer. It was then that he noticed how badly his hands were shaking. He quickly withdrew them and tucked them under the table out of sight. “When did you get into town?” Luke asked.

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“A few minutes ago.” Priest settled his chair next to Luke’s, close enough that their thighs brushed. “Are you here for long?” Luke asked. Jessup cleared his throat. It was obvious he wasn’t pleased with Luke’s intrusion. “We were just getting to that.” When you so rudely interrupted, Luke silently finished Jessup’s sentence. “Couple weeks maybe,” Priest answered. “I hate to work during the holidays.” Luke realised how little he knew about the man who had so captured his dreams. “What is it that you do?” Priest, Brac and Jessup exchanged glances. “I work in the security field,” Priest finally stated. “Like a bodyguard?” Luke thought of the men who had guarded Stretch. Although he couldn’t prove it, he still believed one of them had taken the photos that had eventually made their way to the gossip rag. Priest shrugged, drawing Luke’s attention to his muscled shoulders. “More national than individual.” “Like CIA or something?” Luke asked. Priest rested his hand on Luke’s upper thigh, out of sight of the others. Luke squeezed his legs together, trapping Priest’s long fingers between them. God, he wished he had something to rub against. Luke’s cock had already started to leak precum, a wet spot slowly forming on the front of his jeans. “Or something,” Priest mumbled. His nostrils flared as he slid his hand higher between Luke’s legs. “So glad we came out tonight,” Jessup half growled. Luke stilled Priest’s hand. He might have been half drunk, but he knew when someone didn’t want him around. “I should let you get back to your friends,” he told Priest. Priest pressed his thumb against Luke’s obvious erection. “I do need to talk to them, but it won’t take long. Will you still be around?”

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Luke thought of their previous encounter in Priest’s rental car. As much as he wanted to get fucked, doing it in a car wasn’t an option with his injured knee. “How about if I write down my address and you come by after you’re finished?” Priest groaned when his thumb found the wet spot on the front of Luke’s jeans. “Give me thirty minutes.” Looking for something to write on, Luke removed the envelope from his pocket and pulled out the first picture of himself in the stack. “Got a pen?” Brac rose and quickly found Moby before returning with a black pen. “Here ya go.” Luke wrote his address and cell phone number on the back of the picture before handing it to Priest. “Just in case you forget what I look like between now and then.” Priest turned the photograph over and smiled. “I’ll be there in twenty,” he amended. Luke stood and nodded towards Brac and Jessup. “Nice to see you guys again.” He felt Priest’s stare like a touch as he slowly made his way out of the bar. If he hurried, he’d have just enough time to pick up his dirty clothes and make the bed before Priest arrived.

**** “What’re you playing at?” Jessup asked. Priest took one last glance at the picture before sliding it into his wallet. He’d come to several conclusions within the past fifteen minutes, and would need Jessup’s assistance with one of them. “I had a fight with Jeffries, told him I quit.” Jessup sat up straighter. “You know you can’t…” He shook his head. “What happened?” Before Jessup could go all deputy on him, Priest decided to lay it all out. “Watched the news lately?” “Yeah.” Jessup’s eyebrows drew together for a moment before shooting up towards his hairline. “You didn’t.”

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Priest nodded. “I was setup. According to the file, the woman was planning to poison the water supply somewhere in the DC area.” “And you didn’t check it out first?” Brac asked. “I was on a tight timeline. The woman I saw going into the house matched the description I was given. According to Jeffries she was a doctor, but the news said she was a marketing executive.” Priest swallowed around the lump in his throat caused by the ongoing guilt. “I fucked up. And for the first time in my life, I think of myself as a murderer.” Jessup whistled. “Shit.” Priest had been either ordered as a Marine or hired as a contractor to kill hundreds of men during his career, but never had he felt guilty about an assignment before. The job in Virginia had changed everything. “So why did someone want her dead?” Jessup asked. “I don’t know, but I’m damn well going to find out.” “You need to talk to Jeffries before this thing goes any further. Tell him to start the ball rolling to get you out,” Jessup suggested. “Not yet. First I need to do some digging on who really owned that house before Jeffries sends someone to make sure I don’t divulge what he thinks I know.” The way Priest figured it, he had at least a week before anyone figured out he was in Cattle Valley. “I may need the leverage.” “Don’t you think hanging out in a bar is a bad idea then?” Jessup asked. Priest grinned. “I’ve been in town for three days. Believe me, I thoroughly checked out the area first.” “What’ll you do if you find out you were hired to kill an innocent woman?” Brac asked. “Oh, I’ll find out, and when I do I’ll have my answer as to what comes next,” Priest explained. “What’s that mean?” Brac asked. Jessup wrapped his arm around his partner. “You’re better off not knowing.”

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Priest had no moral qualms about killing people who threatened the security of his country. It had always been a matter of killing one to save a hundred as far as Priest was concerned. “Anyway, I wanted to fill you in on what was going on. I might need your help to watch my back if it comes to that.” Priest hoped Jessup was still the friend he’d relied on in the past. “And the agency?” Jessup asked. “I told you, I’m done. I’ve got enough money in the bank to live ten lifetimes. The agency isn’t what it used to be if they’d accept a job like the one I was hired to do.” “Just promise me you won’t go all Rambo on them until you find out the truth,” Jessup said. Priest held up his hands. “For the next week all I plan to do is fuck and hack into a few databases.” Jessup’s eyes narrowed. “Are you sure messing around with Luke is a good idea? You could be putting him in danger.” “Don’t worry about Luke. He’ll be in good hands.”

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Chapter Three

Priest parked his truck three blocks from Luke’s house. He pulled the picture Luke had given him out of his wallet and stared at it. The photograph showed a muscular blond guy with his arm slung over Luke’s shoulders. Something about the tableau unsettled him. Although Luke had often been on his mind since leaving Cattle Valley, Priest had pushed through his daydreams to the reality he lived on a daily basis. No room, he’d continually reminded himself. He continued to stare at the photograph until he made up his mind to give himself the chance to live a normal life, even for a few days. After shoving the picture back into his pocket, Priest got out of the truck and darted from yard to yard until he arrived at Luke’s back door. He scanned the area before knocking. Several moments later, the door opened. Dressed only in a pair of boy shorts, Luke looked surprised. “I left the front porch light on for you.” Luke’s body resembled a colourful canvas stretched over a defined, leanly muscled body, and Priest was determined to explore every line of ink. “I prefer using the back door.” Reaching out, Priest circled one of Luke’s nipples with the tip of his finger. “Mind if I come in?” Luke shook his head and took several steps backward. “As far as I’m concerned, you can use any entrance you like.” He winked up at Priest. “What about your boyfriend? Would he mind me coming in your back door?” Priest flattened his hand as he reached down to palm the erection trapped in Luke’s underwear. Luke’s Adam’s apple bobbed several times. “Lucky for you, I don’t have a boyfriend.” He leant forward and swiped Priest’s nipple through the thin material of the white shirt with his tongue. The sensual lick ended with a gentle bite before Luke drew back. “Who’s the guy with his arm around you in the picture? I also saw him sitting with you at O’Brien’s.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“That’s Kenny, my best friend since I was a kid.” Luke turned his attention to Priest’s other nipple, giving it the same treatment. Priest moved his hand around Luke’s hip to his ass. He began to knead the cute little bubble butt as he held Luke’s mouth in place with a grip to the back of his head. Luke’s shoulder-length hair felt like strands of silk under his hand. When Luke began unzipping Priest’s jeans, Priest decided it was time to move the party further into the house. Using a handful of Luke’s hair for leverage, Priest tilted the younger man’s head back. “Show me the bedroom.” Luke licked his lips. “Can I get a kiss first?” Priest shook his head. “I thought I made my feelings on that subject perfectly clear last time I was in town.” Luke already had some kind of unexplained hold on him. The last thing he would do was move their relationship beyond fucking. “I’d hoped since you’ve come back for more you’d changed your mind.” Luke took several steps back before turning around. As Priest watched Luke’s ass, he was reminded of Luke’s injured knee. In a moment of possession, Priest swept Luke off his feet and into his arms. He’d never felt the need to pamper a lover, but he wasn’t willing to analyse his actions just yet. Luke didn’t protest Priest’s caveman-like actions. Instead he settled comfortably into Priest’s arms. “The bedroom’s at the end of the hall.” Priest deposited Luke onto the centre of the mattress. He turned on the small bedside lamp before removing his shirt. “How bad’s the knee?” Luke shucked his underwear and tossed them to the floor before answering. “Does it matter?” he asked, spreading his legs. It was obvious from the sheen and ease with which Luke slipped his fingers in and out of his hole that he’d already prepared himself before Priest’s arrival. The image of Luke pleasuring himself in anticipation for Priest’s visit fuelled Priest’s lust. “Just wanted to know how gentle I need to be.” He bent over and pushed two fingers deep into Luke’s hole. “You’re a hot little fucker.” After shoving his jeans and underwear to his knees, Priest sat on the edge of the bed and went to work on his boots.

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“I can’t tell you how many nights I’ve laid right here with my fingers up my ass thinking about you,” Luke confessed. Priest could have told him he’d jacked off many times to the memories of Luke’s tight ass, but he wasn’t the kind of man to share his intimate thoughts. The moment the boots were off, Luke squirmed his way onto Priest’s lap with a condom in his hand. “In a hurry?” “Something like that.” Luke straddled Priest’s knees as he rolled the condom down Priest’s cock. “I bought extra-large rubbers in the hope I’d see you again.” Something about the comment didn’t sit well with Priest. He’d never been predictable, so why had Luke assumed he’d be back? Reaching for the bottle of lube on the nightstand, Priest added slick to his fingers. As he tried to work out why he was so bothered, he began to slide his fingers in and out of Luke’s ass. “Did I say something wrong?” Luke asked, riding Priest’s hand. “Why’d you think I’d be back?” Priest slipped his fingers out of Luke and positioned the stretched hole over his cock. “Because you’ve got friends here,” Luke answered. “Jessup and Brac are your friends, aren’t they?” Priest slowly guided Luke down the length of his erection. He ground his teeth together at the exquisite squeeze of Luke’s inner walls against his cock. For such a small man, Luke’s body accommodated Priest’s size better than anyone ever had. Well, except for Jessup, but since Brac had come along, Priest wasn’t allowed to think of Jessup as anything but a friend. He decided not to comment on Luke’s remark about returning to Cattle Valley. The idea that Priest was predictable was absurd. It had been a lucky guess on Luke’s part, nothing more. Once Luke was fully seated, Priest wrapped his arms around Luke’s waist and held him in place. It was as close to a hug as Priest ever gave. The action didn’t arise out of emotion, it was purely a selfish gesture. It had been nearly three weeks since he’d fucked the twins and his control was on a hair-trigger. The fact that Luke felt as if he was being watched had nothing to do with it.

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After several deep, calming breaths, Priest stood with his cock still buried deep inside Luke. Lifting Luke with him, Priest turned around and laid them both on the bed. He refused to look Luke in the eyes as he withdrew and plunged back inside. Priest fixated on a framed photograph on Luke’s dresser. It depicted a mother and child, the boy—no doubt Luke—had to have been around three or four. He continued to stare at the picture as he began a punishing rhythm. Luke’s cries of pleasure filled Priest’s ears, but not once did he dare look down. There was something far too intense about the moment for Priest’s comfort. After ten minutes of rigorous fucking, he actually considered withdrawing from Luke’s welcoming hole. He tried to picture someone else under him, anyone but the man who had haunted his dreams lately. Luke Hatcher is a diversion, nothing more, he told himself over and over as he continued to fuck his way to completion. Luke’s short nails dug into Priest’s shoulder blades as he tried to hang on. “I’m coming,” Luke announced, as the first splash of heat shot onto Priest’s stomach. In a moment of insanity, Priest glanced down. The expression on Luke’s face said it all. Shit. Priest buried his face against the comforter as he humped his way to climax. He growled low and deep as he rode the crest of his orgasm. The moment he’d finished coming, Priest withdrew his cock and moved to the edge of the bed. His hands shook as he removed the filled condom and tied the end. “You okay?” Luke asked, still sprawled on the bed. “I need to take a leak.” Priest rose and strode out of the room and into the attached bathroom. After shutting the door, he tossed the condom into the trashcan and sat on the edge of the tub. “Jump in the truck and get the hell out of town,” he whispered the warning to himself. “Come back to bed,” Luke called from the bedroom. Priest stood and turned on the sink faucet. He splashed cold water onto his heated face and prayed the feeling of panic would disappear before Luke decided to come in after him. “I’ll be out in a minute,” he said, staring at his reflection.

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“It was just a really good fuck,” he told himself. “You came here to get Luke out of your system. What else did you expect?” Not to see my future in his eyes, Priest’s inner demon answered. He wasn’t foolish enough to believe he’d fallen in love, but he did know the craving for Luke’s body had only just begun. Would a week be enough for him to tire of the younger man? It had to be. Any longer and he’d run the risk of drawing the agency’s attention to Luke should they find him. The devil on his shoulder whispered they already had. Opening the bathroom door, Priest crossed his arms and leaned against the frame. Luke was under the covers, smiling up at him. He flipped back the blanket, exposing his nude body. “Are you coming back to bed?” Priest couldn’t bring himself to leave, not yet anyway. He went back into the bathroom and ran warm water over a washcloth. Carrying it to bed, he sat on the edge and slowly, methodically began to clean Luke. He paid special attention to the ass that had given him so much pleasure only minutes earlier. “You have to work tomorrow?” “Nope. You?” Priest shook his head. “I have some research I have to do, but nothing else.” “You can use my computer,” Luke offered, stroking Priest’s stomach with his palm. “I might take you up on that.” He gestured towards the picture he’d stared at earlier. “Your mom?” Luke’s smile faded quickly. He nodded his head and shrugged. “She died when I was a boy.” That helped explain Luke’s sudden mood change. “Sorry about that.” He tossed the washcloth onto the floor and climbed under the covers. Although he’d be ready again in thirty minutes or so, Priest knew if he kept Luke talking about the past, he wouldn’t have time to think about the future. “And your dad?” “He was in the Navy aboard the USS Stark, stationed in the Persian Gulf.” Priest didn’t need to ask further questions. He was still in basic training when the Stark had taken missile fire from an Iraqi jet fighter. More than thirty US sailors www.total-e-bound.com

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had died as a result, evidently Luke’s father had been among them. Priest studied Luke for several moments. He’d never spoken to anyone about his childhood, not even Jessup, but he felt the need to share a small piece of himself. “I was left outside a hospital when I was a couple hours old, so I didn’t know either of my parents.” Priest had started building walls around his heart the moment he’d realised he didn’t have what most kids took for granted. The truth no longer had the ability to hurt him. “That’s okay, though. I survived despite what they did.” “It could’ve been worse,” Luke whispered. Priest’s head snapped towards Luke. “What did you just say?” Luke sat up and looked down at Priest. “At least they didn’t throw you into a dumpster or something. I mean, you hear about shit like that all the time. I don’t know why your mom did what she did, but if she’d wanted you dead, she wouldn’t have left you outside a hospital.” Priest had hoped talking about the past would be safe, but he quickly changed his mind. Throwing the covers back, he swung his legs off the side of the bed and sat up. “I should go.” Luke launched himself at Priest, wrapping his arms around the big man’s neck. “Please don’t. I’m sorry about what I said. Sometimes I have diarrhoea of the mouth. From now on tell me to shut up. Hell, we don’t even have to talk if you don’t want to, but please stay.” “No more questions.” Priest rolled his eyes. Luke hadn’t even asked him a question. He’d stupidly volunteered the information. Thankfully, Luke was man enough to let the comment drop. “Will you stay?” Priest nodded and allowed Luke to lead him back down to the mattress. Once they were under the blankets once again, Luke reached for the remote control on the bedside table. “Feel like watching some TV?” “Sure. I don’t watch much though, so you’ll have to fill me in if it’s one of those ongoing kind of shows.” There was something so innocent yet incredibly intimate about their position. Luke began to flip through the channels. “Holler if you see something you like.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Right there,” Priest said when Luke turned to a home improvement show. “I just bought a house that needs some work done. Maybe I’ll pick up a few pointers.” “Good luck. I’ve been watching this network for about five years, and I still don’t have a clue how to lay tile.” They watched for several minutes before Luke spoke again. “Can I ask you something?” “You can ask, doesn’t mean I’ll answer,” Priest said. “Were you in the alley when I hurt my knee?” Luke asked, taking a moment to allow his body time to adjust to Priest’s cock. “No. Why?” Luke shook his head. “Nothing. I just had this feeling someone was watching me. I’d hoped it was you.” “Wasn’t.” Within minutes, Luke was softly snoring against Priest’s chest. Priest eased the remote out of Luke’s hand and turned the volume down. As he continued to pick up pointers on home repair and decorating, he idly ran his fingertips over the soft, inked skin of Luke’s lower back. A glance at the clock surprised him. He’d held Luke for over two hours without expecting anything in return. He was tempted to wake Luke up and ask for a blowjob or something. Not that he needed to be sucked off, but it would make him feel better if they kept their relationship strictly sexual. Usually he had to be flat out wasted to spend the entire night with a booty call, but once again, things felt different with Luke. Priest turned off the lamp and the television and stared up at the darkened ceiling. What would Luke think if he knew Priest had blown up a house with innocent people inside? Thoughts of the assignment threw Priest back into the pit of guilt he’d been wallowing in for days. He needed to find out more on the woman whose picture he still had in a file at his house. According to news reports, the woman in the photograph and her elderly parents had died in the explosion that had rocked the middle class neighbourhood.

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He couldn’t help but wonder if it had something to do with her Middle Eastern descent. Was it possible that the woman was a terrorist? His gut had told him no. So why hadn’t he listened? Although the answer came easily, it didn’t make Priest feel any better. He’d trusted Jeffries and the agency to only assign him matters of national security. So Priest had not only failed the innocent family, but his agency had failed him. Great. Unable to sleep, Priest eased out of bed without waking Luke. He didn’t bother turning on lights as he left the bedroom. A life spent in the shadows had given him keen night vision, something he’d always used to his advantage. He found Luke’s desktop computer in the spare bedroom and fired it up. Because he doubted Luke had a high level security system on his computer, Priest stuck to Google. After typing in the woman’s name, he scrolled through the recent news reports, looking for something older. Images of women with the same name caught his attention and he clicked on the link. According to the search results there were five pages of thumbnail images for Alhena Qasim. He found what he was looking for on the fourth page. There appeared to be just one picture, but it was definitely Alhena. Priest clicked on the thumbnail and a heartbreaking image filled the screen. Dressed in a white lab coat, Alhena was dispensing small cups of what Priest could only assume was medicine to Haitian refugees. The news reports and his own file said the woman was a marketing executive, so what was she doing with refugees? He studied every detail of the photo, looking for other clues. A partial profile of the US Secretary of State, Benjamin Grover, talking to reporters in the background surprised him. Was there a link between the photograph and the hired hit on Alhena? “I woke up to a cold bed,” Luke said from behind him. Priest quickly closed the window before turning towards Luke. “Sorry about that. I couldn’t sleep so I decided to start my research.” Luke came into the room and placed a hand on Priest’s shoulder. “Did you find what you were looking for?”

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“No, but I found a starting point. I’ll continue it tomorrow after a long night of fucking you.” Luke grinned and reached out to wrap a hand around Priest’s growing erection. “I’m off shift for the next twenty-nine hours. Do you have any idea how sore you can make me in that amount of time?” “No, but I can’t wait to find out.”

**** “Oh, shit,” Priest grumbled. “No. That’s a good thing,” Luke said, handing him two pink pegs. “How in the hell can two twin girls be a good thing? Have you ever been around girls?” Priest took the pegs and tried unsuccessfully to put them in his blue plastic car. Giving up, he handed the items to Luke. “I don’t know how I let you talk me into playing this game.” “It’s The Game of Life, probably the best board game ever created.” Luke put the pegs in their places and set Priest’s car back onto the board. There was something so incredibly cute about seeing a man of Priest’s size sitting cross-legged on the floor playing a game. It was almost…domestic. “The more children you have, the more likely you are to win.” Priest snorted. “Win what? You never told me.” “The game.” Luke counted spaces and moved his car. “Isn’t winning enough?” “Sure, when you get something for it. But bragging rights don’t interest me, never have.” Luke tucked his hands in his lap. It was like Priest had never had a chance to just enjoy life for what it was. There was something so heartbreaking about that. Sure, Luke’s life hadn’t been ideal, but he’d had Kenny. He wondered if Priest had had a best friend growing up. Glancing up at Priest, Luke compared him to Stretch. Luke had been in love with Stretch who had humiliated him in the press. Would Priest break his heart the way Stretch had? “I’m sorry,” Priest apologised. “I won’t make fun of your game anymore.”

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“It’s not the game.” Luke sighed. “I’ve only risked my heart on one person and that didn’t end well.” “Don’t go risking anything on me. I’m not the kind of man you need.” “You’re sexy, kind, and except for the kissing thing, you treat me better than any other lover has,” Luke explained, laying his soul bare. Priest reached across the board and laid a hand on Luke’s shoulder. “That’s pretty damn sad. You should find someone who treats you like gold, not shows up and fucks you before disappearing again.” “Is that what you’re gonna do, disappear?” Luke asked, leaning his head sideways to brush his cheek against Priest’s hand. “It’s what I do. I’m a man without a future. I live my life one breath to the next. Building a future with me would only lead to further heartache, and you deserve better.” “Are you sure?” There had been a time when Luke had been loved unconditionally and he’d let fear take it all away. He looked down at his nude body. Although most people thought his tattoos were a form of self-expression, no one had ever bothered to look beyond the colourful ink to the symbols of self-hatred hidden within the art. “I’m sure.” Priest stood and held out his hand. “Let’s leave this game for later. We should go work each other out of our systems.” Luke wasn’t sure that was possible. Priest returning to Cattle Valley meant so much to him. Didn’t everyone dream of being unforgettable? Luke smiled as he followed Priest to the bedroom. He was going to do his best to make sure he was truly embedded in Priest’s heart before he had the chance to leave town again.

**** By the time Luke reported for work on Thursday morning he was indeed walking funny. Luckily, most of the guys chalked the awkward gait up to his sore knee, when in fact his injury didn’t hurt at all. He spotted a chuckling Collin Zeffer in the corner and walked towards him. “Problem?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Collin shook his head. “Nope. I’ve had that walk myself a time or two.” “I hurt my knee,” Luke said in his own defence. “Yep, and I told people I’d been riding horses. When all I was really riding was Abe.” Collin was usually a soft spoken man, so the reference to his sex life shocked Luke. “It’s always the quiet ones,” Luke said with a shake of his head. With a wide grin on his handsome face, Collin nodded towards the sleeping quarters. “I’ve got some salve in my kit if you need it.” Instead of accepting Collin’s offer, Luke gave him a playful punch in the arm. “You’d better keep it. My stud’ll only be in town for a few more days.” “Suit yourself. It’s there if you need it.” Collin wandered off towards the kitchen. Luke pushed through the swinging doors to the bay. Aaron was already in the back of the ambulance doing inventory. “Man, do you ever get a day off?” Aaron glanced up. Although he’d been out of the service for more than a year, Aaron still looked haunted. Luke had never served in the military, but he held the upmost respect for those who had. “It’s easier to stay busy.” Aaron handed Luke a damaged box of gauze. “I’m not sure what happened to this, but the plastic wrapping is torn. I think we should toss it.” Luke set the box aside so he could dispose of it later. He knew Aaron was still battling PTSD and wondered if he could give Luke any tips to get through the memories of the wreck that continued to plague him. “I can’t get the face of Kati Hargrove out of my mind.” Aaron continued to count the wrapped syringes. He finished and wrote the figure in the log before addressing Luke. “It’s only been a few days. Give yourself time.” “Has time worked for you?” Luke asked. “No, but I’ve seen hundreds of Katis.” “So how do you deal with it?” Luke couldn’t imagine what Aaron must go through on a daily basis. www.total-e-bound.com

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“I see a therapist.” Aaron set his clipboard down, giving Luke his full attention. “And I pray a lot. Reverend Sharp listens to my confessions every week.” “Reverend Sharp? But he’s not Catholic.” “Yeah, but no one’s perfect.” Aaron grinned. It was such a rare occurrence it took Luke off guard. “You should go see him. I’m sure he could help you deal with the accident.” Luke had never considered talking to anyone but Kenny, but even his best friend didn’t know the full extent of Luke’s sin. “Thanks. I’ll think about it.”

**** “Thanks for coming. I need a favour,” Priest said, letting Jessup into the house. Jessup looked around the sparse living room. “Who does your decorating?” “Fuck you.” Priest knew the house had seen better days, but it was his. The first bit of solid real estate he’d ever owned. After watching TV with Luke, Priest had a good idea of the things he’d like to do to improve the house, but in order to get them done he’d have to settle down. Pipe dreams, all of them, he told himself. Jessup sat on the edge of a sofa that had definitely seen better days. “What can I do for you?” “Just like that? You’re not going to rake me over the coals for asking a favour?” Jessup shrugged. “You saved Brac’s life a few months ago. I think that’s earned you a few favours.” “Yeah, I did do that, didn’t I?” Priest smiled. He handed a slip of paper to Jessup. “I need to find out everything I can about this woman. The problem is, I’m sure her name is flagged. If I go hacking into databases, someone’ll know.” Jessup nodded his understanding. “You’re right.” He held up the sheet of paper. “Do you know anything?” “Yeah. Hang on.” Priest went into the kitchen and returned with a copy of the picture he’d printed from the internet. He handed it to Jessup and waited, wondering if his friend would come to the same conclusion he had. “You think she worked for the government?”

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“I don’t know, but I’m interested in this lab coat and why she’s passing out medicine in the picture. That’s the information I need you to get for me.” “And how do you propose I go about that?” Jessup asked. “I need you to ask Ryan to do it. Whether he does it directly or through another law enforcement channel, I don’t care, as long as I get the information.” Jessup shook his head. “It’s too risky. Ryan’s a great guy, but he’s also the sheriff. Telling him would put both of you in a dangerous position.” “I don’t know what else to do.” That wasn’t the actual truth. If he was anywhere else in the world he wouldn’t hesitate to hack into the needed databases, but Priest wasn’t willing to leave Cattle Valley just yet. “You could always contact Sully or Midnight,” Jessup suggested. Priest grunted. Sully and Midnight were two of the agency’s best, but he’d never considered either of them friends. Of the two, Sully was a better bet. At least he couldn’t arrest Priest. “You think Sully would help without blowing the whistle?” “Are you kidding? The man worships the ground you walk on. The only problem is Midnight has him under his thumb most of the time. I’m not sure you can tell one and not both.” There was something about Midnight Jones he didn’t trust, never had. The only upside was that Midnight was currently working in Mexico. “Maybe I can sweet talk Sully into keeping it to himself.” The more he thought about it, the more sense it made. “He’d be taking a chance, though.” “You’re right. What if the answer isn’t worth the risk? Have you thought about that?” Jessup asked. He held Priest’s gaze for several moments. “I know it’s the guilt and not the money that’s pushing you.” “I need to know why I was sent to kill her.” It was hard to explain to outsiders, but he knew Jessup understood and didn’t judge him. Priest had never killed someone for sport or profit, something he’d always been proud of. Jessup’s cell phone rang, interrupting their discussion. He glanced at the display. “Jessup,” he answered. “Yeah, be right there.” He ended the call. “Stolen car. I gotta go, but think about what I said.” Priest nodded. “Thanks for stopping by.” www.total-e-bound.com

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After Jessup left, Priest pulled up the floorboards to his hidey-hole and removed a small, red, leather-bound notebook. He carried the book into the living room and sat on the couch. The fact the money hadn’t been deposited into his account worried him. He could very well be a man already marked for death. Whoever the hell the client was seemed to be more important to the agency than Priest was. Not a good sign. Before calling Sully, Priest decided to give Jeffries one last chance. With his scrambler in place, he punched in Jeffries’ number and waited. He heard the click as his handler picked up the phone and decided to speak before the pleasantries began. “Heard anything about when I’m going to get my money?” Jeffries cleared his throat. “I told you it’s coming. Where are you?” “Doesn’t matter. Who was Alhena?” “What’s going on? It’s not like you to hang onto a job once it’s over. Why don’t you meet me somewhere and we can talk about it.” “You didn’t answer my question,” Priest reminded Jeffries. “And I’m not going to over the phone. Agree to meet me, and I’ll tell you what I know.” Priest knew a trap when he heard one. “Fuck off.” After turning off his phone, Priest rested his head against the wall behind the sofa and closed his eyes. He should leave, go into hiding and stay there until he figured out where he stood, but what if it was already too late? “Shit.” Priest needed a plan. He rose off the couch and retrieved his laptop from the bedroom. Opening a new document, he began a list that could very well sign his death warrant.

**** Priest thrummed his fingers on the table as he waited for Jessup to arrive. At least he didn’t need to worry about Brac. The up and coming movie star had been called back to LA to record some voiceovers for a movie he’d recently completed.

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With his back to the wall, Priest spotted Jessup the moment he stepped foot in the bar. For the umpteenth time he reached inside his coat to make sure the manila envelope was still safe. “Didn’t expect to hear from you again today,” Jessup said, sliding into the booth. “Did you give Sully a call?” “No, although I haven’t completely ruled it out.” Priest reached inside his coat and placed the thick envelope on the table. “I need you to give these to people you trust. Don’t tell me who they are, just make sure they stay safe.” Jessup picked up the envelope and peered inside. “What are they?” “Life insurance policies. I’ve detailed every job I’ve been hired to do in the last five years, complete with names if I knew them. If anything happens to me, I want them sent to the addresses on the front of each envelope.” Before Jessup could reach inside, Priest grabbed his wrist. “The people you trust enough to give these to can never open them. Make sure they understand that.” Jessup removed one of the business-sized envelopes. Staring at the news agency address typed on the front, he shook his head. “Are you sure about this?” “I’m sure. Without them, I’m a dead man.” “You really think it’ll come to that?” Jessup asked, sliding the envelope back inside the larger one. “I know it will. I have a feeling it’s already begun. Which is why I’m going to disappear with Luke for a while.” “Why drag him into this?” “Because right now he’s my weakness, and if someone comes looking for me, they’ll figure that out.” Priest scrubbed his face with his palms before moving them up and over his bald head. “What about his job? Do you really think he’ll pick up and run away with you just because you ask?” Jessup argued. “I didn’t say it was going to be easy, but it’ll keep him alive.” Priest hated that he’d let his cock lead him into this situation with Luke, but the damage had already been done. “Let me talk to Ryan,” Jessup began. www.total-e-bound.com

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Priest cut his friend off before he could proceed. “No. I’ve already put enough people in danger. I can handle this. Just promise you’ll hand out those letters.” “Of course I will.” Priest held out his hand. “I’ll be in touch the moment it’s safe.” “That doesn’t work for me. How the hell am I supposed to know you’re still alive if you don’t call me?” “Good point.” “When do you leave town?” Jessup asked. “Tomorrow morning, as soon as Luke gets off shift.” Priest hoped he could convince Luke without resorting to scare tactics. Regardless, Luke Hatcher would be leaving Cattle Valley. “Buy a couple disposable phones. Drop one by the station on your way out of town and call me at five o’clock on the dot every evening. If I don’t hear from you, I’ll put the word out to mail the letters.” Priest grinned. “Happy to see this deputy bullshit hasn’t rotted your brain.” “Screw you,” Jessup chuckled. He stood and rapped his knuckles against the table. “Dinner’s at noon on Christmas. Make sure you finish this shit by then.” Three weeks? “Talk about pressure,” Priest grumbled. “I have faith in you,” Jessup said before walking away. Priest stared after his friend. His initial plan was to disappear for months, not weeks. If he had any chance of meeting Jessup’s stupid deadline, he’d definitely need outside help.

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Chapter Four

Luke sat frozen in his seat as they arrived on the accident scene. Although it was four in the morning, the full moon overhead shed enough light on the surrounding timber to realise how much worse the accident might have been. Aaron shut down the engine and opened his door. “Something wrong?” Luke continued to stare straight ahead. “Guess so, because I can’t seem to bring myself to reach for the door handle.” Aaron paused in the act of climbing out of the ambulance. “The driver phoned it in. It isn’t a fatality accident. He just hit a deer.” “I know,” Luke mumbled. He noticed Chief George Manning off to the side of the road watching him through the windshield. Get out! He screamed at himself. What the hell was wrong with him? “I’ll check him out,” Aaron finally said, slamming the door shut. Luke groaned when George started towards the ambulance. Even the threat of getting fired wasn’t enough to make him get out of the vehicle. George opened Luke’s door. “You okay?” “No, sir,” Luke answered. Although he wasn’t the kind of man who cried often, Luke felt tears trickle down his face. His throat seemed unnaturally raw as he tried to swallow. “I can’t see her face again.” George placed his hand on Luke’s shoulder. “Whose? Kati’s?” Although he hadn’t admitted it to anyone, Kati’s face had completely morphed into his mother’s several days earlier. “Yes.” “Have you talked to anyone about it?” George asked. “No. Jakob witnessed everything I did and he seems okay.” “Jakob has Zac to talk to. I think it helps to have that kind of support. Would you like me to make you an appointment with Dr Pritchard?” “Maybe.” Luke glanced towards the crumpled car. “Is it bad?” “Not really. A busted nose, maybe a cracked rib or two. I’ll have Toby give Aaron a hand.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Thanks.” “Don’t thank me yet. We need to sit down and talk once we get back to the station,” George informed him. “I know.” Luke didn’t need to ask what the talk would entail. “I’ve got some vacation time coming. I can always take that.” “That’s probably for the best. Come by my office and we’ll get the paperwork filled out.” George shut Luke’s door and walked back to the scene just as a tow truck arrived. Three more hours until his shift ended. Luke wondered if he’d be allowed to finish or if George would send him home sooner. He pulled out his cell phone, wishing he had a number for Priest. Although they’d spent nearly twenty-eight straight hours either fucking, sleeping or eating, he still knew very little about Priest. It was obvious Priest was a man of secrets. Although Luke would love to know what they were, he liked Priest too much to push him away with questions. After openly sharing every orifice of his body with Priest, the least the Priest could have done was give Luke his damn phone number. He considered calling Jessup to get Priest’s number, but he didn’t figure the deputy would appreciate getting phoned at four in the morning. Despite his current predicament, spending time with Priest had helped. There was something incredibly touching about the way the Priest held him when they slept. But the only thing Luke had to compare it with was his time spent with Stretch McGee, and everyone in the nation knew how that had turned out. Maybe he was naïve to think a man like Priest would be interested in settling down in a place as quiet as Cattle Valley. Hell, he’d yet to even kiss him and here he was dreaming about a life that would never exist. Future or not, Luke planned to relish every second of the time he spent with Priest. Although Priest didn’t fill Luke’s head with words of love, at least he was honest. He had made it clear upfront their time together was about mutual sexual satisfaction, and although Luke yearned for more, at least he’d gone into the situation with his eyes wide open. www.total-e-bound.com

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**** With his pickup loaded, Priest waited for Luke to arrive home from work. Around him, Luke’s neighbours were slowly starting their day. He watched as several lights clicked on. Priest wondered what it would be like to have a set routine every day. There had been a time in his life when he couldn’t imagine a greater horror, but with age came the desire to settle down. He tried to picture himself going to a regular nine-to-five job and shuddered. Okay, he may want to slow down, but he was honest enough with himself to know he would never fit into that kind of life. Luckily, Priest was financially secure unless someone decided to bomb Switzerland. Despite the cold December temperatures, Luke roared into the driveway on his black and silver Harley. Priest got out of the truck and met him as he climbed off the bike. Right away it was obvious something was wrong. For the first time since he’d met Luke, Priest wished he was comfortable kissing his lovers because Luke sure looked like he could use one. “What happened?” Luke took off his helmet and tucked it under his arm. “I froze.” “I’m not surprised, it’s fucking cold out here. Maybe you should invest in a car.” Priest rested his hand on Luke’s back as they walked to the house. Luke unlocked the door. “Not that kind of frozen. I mean I got to an accident scene last night and couldn’t get out of the fucking truck.” He threw his helmet across the living room. “I’m stuck taking mandatory vacation until the first of the year.” “That’s perfect,” Priest said. “Excuse me?” Luke moved his hands to rest on his hips as he shot Priest an accusing glare. “I rented a cabin in the Shenandoah Valley. I was hoping you’d share it with me for a few weeks. I’ve been up most of the night trying to figure out how to convince you to come, but since you won’t be working anyway, it’s perfect.” Priest held his breath. His heart wanted him to tell Luke the truth, but his gut said it was better to keep him in the dark, or was it the other way around? Priest was www.total-e-bound.com

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under no illusion that Luke would feel the same about him if he knew how many people he’d killed. Maybe it was pure selfishness on his part, but Priest wanted to take a normal life for a test drive, even if it would be temporary. “I’m supposed to see…” Luke’s voice trailed off. “Who?” Priest prompted. “A shrink. My boss thinks I need to get some kind of professional help to deal with a fatality I worked.” Luke plopped onto the couch and put his booted feet on the coffee table. “It’s the reason I couldn’t work the accident a few hours ago. The reason I froze up.” With time ticking, Priest needed to hurry Luke along. He reached down and pulled Luke to his feet. “Talk to me about what happened if you need to, but come with me.” Luke stared up at Priest. “On one condition.” “Anything.” “Kiss me.” Priest stared down at Luke. Although a kiss was an innocent enough gesture of affection between two people, for Priest it meant so much more. He remembered the last time he’d kissed someone. The emotions involved in letting his guard down had made him weak. He’d almost died at the hands of the man he’d thought he could love, but that had been nearly nine years ago. Luke’s different, he told himself as he slowly lowered his head. Luke’s arms wrapped around Priest’s neck as their lips met for the first time. At the taste of Luke’s mouth, Priest didn’t know if he would ever be able to stop kissing Luke. Gripping Luke’s waist, Priest lifted him off his feet as the kiss went deeper. His cock rigid and aching, he wanted nothing more than to throw Luke on the couch and fuck him until the entire world melted into the background. Unfortunately, that would never happen. Especially when there were men out there who wanted Priest silenced. Eventually, Priest broke the kiss. “Tell me you’ll come with me?” “When?” Luke asked, his lips red and swollen from the intensity of their kiss.

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“Now. Go throw a suitcase together and let’s get the hell out of here. We’ve got a long drive ahead of us.” Luke’s eyes rounded. “We’re driving all the way to Virginia? You got a problem with flying?” Flying required identification that could be easily tracked. “I just thought it would be nice to spend the time together.” Priest kissed Luke’s forehead. “Come on, it’ll be an adventure.” Luke glanced out the large picture window. “Will that truck get us all the way to Virginia?” “Probably, but if not I can always buy something different along the way.” Priest had no intention of driving his truck beyond Omaha. He’d already made the necessary arrangements to store the vehicle out of sight should someone pick up their trail. Luke shook his head. “You’re an odd man, aren’t you?” “I try.” Priest grinned before swatting Luke on the ass. “Come on, I’ll help you pack.”

**** When Priest pulled into a small storage yard in Omaha, Luke was confused. “What’re we doing here?” “I’ve decided to go ahead and buy something else, but I don’t want to give up my truck, so I’ll run in here and see if they have any units available.” Before Luke could ask further questions, Priest jumped out of the pickup and went inside. Luke ran his fingers through his hair in frustration. Although the trip so far had been enjoyable, Priest insisted on taking back roads instead of utilising the highways. It didn’t make sense and when Luke asked, Priest always had an excuse at the ready. The truck seemed to be running fine, so it didn’t make sense to buy something else. Moreover, why would Priest pay money to store his truck instead of just trading it in? Luke growled, the sound echoing inside the closed cab. After the kisses they’d shared before they’d left Cattle Valley and on the drive, Luke had begun to www.total-e-bound.com

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think Priest liked him for more than a piece of ass, but he was no longer sure what the hell was going on. In a matter of minutes, Priest was back behind the wheel. They pulled into a large storage unit, much too big for the single truck, and turned off the engine. Luke held his tongue when Priest asked him to stay with the truck while he took a cab to the nearest car dealership. “You don’t mind, do you?” Priest asked when the cab pulled up. “It’s not that I mind, I just don’t understand,” Luke confessed. “Why don’t we both get the new car and head out?” “I have a lot of expensive equipment in the truck. I’d rather not lug it all over town.” Priest brushed Luke’s cheek with the back of his fingers. “I promise we’ll talk after we leave Omaha.” “What should I do while I’m waiting?” Luke asked. Priest pointed towards the diner across the street. “Why don’t you go grab something to eat? Just use that padlock I gave you for the door before you go.” After Priest had gone, Luke grabbed his cell phone out of the truck. He pulled the heavy garage door down and slipped the padlock into place. As he walked towards the diner, he called Kenny. “Hey,” his friend answered. Luke waited for traffic to thin before darting across the street. “I didn’t interrupt class or anything, did I?” “No. What’s up?” Luke walked into the diner and slid into a booth by the front window. “I’m in Omaha.” “What?” “Priest asked me to go away with him for a couple of weeks, but he promised we’d be back by Christmas.” A shadow fell over him and Luke smiled up at the waitress. “Hang on,” he told Kenny. After a quick scan of the menu, Luke decided he wasn’t very hungry. “I’ll just have a glass of iced tea and a piece of apple pie,” he told the waitress. “Okay, I’m back,” Luke informed Kenny. www.total-e-bound.com

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“What about work?” “I’m on vacation until the first of the year. It’s all been cleared through George.” Luke left out the reason he’d been asked to take time off. “So, you see, it’s just a chance for me to get away.” “But you barely know this guy,” Kenny argued. “I know enough.” Luke noticed several of the diner’s patrons turn to stare at him. He cleared his throat. “You have Eli. Let me have this. Just for a little while,” he added. Although he’d had a hard time accepting Eli, Luke had slowly learned to appreciate the love Kenny and Eli felt for each other. “I’ll worry about you until you get back.” “Don’t. I’ll be fine. Give my love to Eli, and I’ll see you both at the end of the month.” Luke hung up just as his tea and slice of pie arrived. As he took the first bite, Luke stared out the window, waiting for Priest. He may have told Kenny he’d be fine, but Luke wasn’t so sure. His heart was already involved. It was something he’d promised himself he’d never give away lightly again, but he’d gone and done it. Unfortunately, he was afraid Priest was playing some kind of game without explaining the rules.

**** Ten miles outside of Omaha and Luke was still chuckling. “I can’t believe you bought a minivan.” “It’s comfortable,” Priest said, trying to defend his choice. In reality, Priest had purchased the van for just that reason. He knew it was the last thing anyone from the agency would expect him to drive. Priest reached over and threaded his fingers through Luke’s. It was time he told Luke the truth, or at least part of it. “We need to talk.” Luke lifted Priest’s hand to his mouth and kissed it. “We don’t have to if you’re not ready.” “I doubt I’ll ever be ready, and if we do it now, I won’t have to look you in the eyes,” Priest admitted. Luke’s grip on Priest’s hand tightened. “I’m not sure I like the sound of that.” www.total-e-bound.com

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They rode for several more miles before Priest gathered the nerve to begin. “Remember when I told you I worked in the security field?” “Yeah.” “Well, it’s more complicated than that. I work for an agency that contracts with the US government and other wealthy individuals around the country.” “Like the CIA?” “Kind of, only the CIA doesn’t even know about us. The agency I work for is privately owned, unlike the CIA.” “What does that mean? What do you do for them?” Priest took the opportunity to withdraw his hand from Luke’s grasp. “I take care of individuals the government consider a threat.” “Take care of, you mean…kill?” Luke unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to face Priest. “Oh my God, you do do that, don’t you?” He covered his mouth with his hand. “Are you going to kill me?” “Not unless you plan to do something to disrupt the workings of the United States Government,” Priest informed him. Luke shook his head. “I hadn’t planned on it.” It was obvious Luke was still in shock over Priest’s bold announcement. Instead of giving Luke time to digest what he’d been told, Priest decided to get the rest out. “Although I’m really looking forward to spending time with you, that’s not the main reason I wanted you away from Cattle Valley.” Luke sat up straighter, and clenched into tight balls. “What’s going on?” “It’s entirely possible people will come looking for me. I covered my tracks well, but they’re almost as good as I am. I needed to make sure if they found me in Cattle Valley, you wouldn’t be harmed. One of the primary rules in my line of work is to exploit a person’s weakness.” “And I’m your weakness?” Luke asked. Priest glanced at Luke before returning his attention to the highway. “Yeah, you’ve quickly become my weakness.” “Are you saying you have feelings for me?” Luke probed.

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Priest wasn’t ready to admit to himself, let alone Luke, how he felt about him. “I just told you I kill people for a living and you’re asking about my feelings?” “Yeah. I’ll think about the other thing later, but right now I need to know what I am to you, and why you’re telling me all this.” “I like you, okay? It’s not something I’m comfortable talking about, so I’d rather drop it. And the reason I’m telling you is because I don’t want to lie to you anymore. Besides, there are certain precautions we need to take right now to ensure no one finds us.” “Like what?” “No phone calls without a scrambler and then only from disposable phones. We won’t be able to enjoy dinners out once we get to Virginia. Once we arrive in the state, I can’t be seen. Which means you’ll have to do all the shopping.” When Luke didn’t say anything, Priest glanced his way. “What?” “I called Kenny from the diner. Sorry, I didn’t know I wasn’t supposed to.” “Shit.” Priest knew it was his own damn fault. He should’ve told Luke the score the moment they left Cattle Valley instead of waiting like some kind of pussy. “Did you tell him where we’re going?” Luke bit his bottom lip, seemingly in deep thought. “No, I don’t think so. I told him I was in Omaha, and that I was going away with you for a couple of weeks.” “Good. If someone happened to be listening in, they’ll lose us after Omaha.” There was a hell of a lot more he needed to tell Luke, but he figured the poor guy had heard enough for one day. He watched as Luke settled back in his seat and refastened his seatbelt. It was obvious Luke’s mind was spinning with the information Priest had imparted. Sooner or later, the facts would sink in and no doubt Luke would either run like hell or ask even more questions.

**** As the new white minivan ate up the miles between Cattle Valley and Virginia, Luke continued to quietly stress over his current situation. I’m in the car with a killer. I let a killer fuck me and liked it. Shit, I am so screwed.

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“What do you think, should we stop somewhere for the night or keep going?” Priest asked. Suddenly all Luke could think about was men chasing them. Of all the things he’d looked forward to on his impromptu vacation, dying wasn’t one of them. “Wouldn’t that be kinda dangerous?” In the green glow of the dashboard lights, Priest turned to meet Luke’s gaze. “You’re starting to freak out, aren’t you?” “Yeah, a little bit,” Luke confirmed. “Sorry, this is my first time riding crosscountry with a killer.” Despite knowing what Priest was, Luke wasn’t afraid of him. How else could he smart off to a seven-foot tall paid assassin? “Who’ve you killed?” he asked out of curiosity. Priest made a gruff noise deep in his throat and turned his attention back to the road. Luke bit his lip. What was wrong with him? “Sorry. I shouldn’t have asked,” he mumbled. “I was recruited out of the Marines. I don’t blame you for thinking less of me, but I need you to know a lot of people have been saved over the years because of the men I’ve been ordered to kill.” “So you only kill terrorists and stuff?” Maybe he was trying to find justification for what Priest did, but Luke figured it was only natural since he really liked the guy. Priest readjusted himself in the seat. “For the most part. Occasionally I’m hired to take out an up and coming foreign politician, but I rarely do those jobs on my own. We usually go in as a team.” “And that’s it?” “I killed the man who tried to kill Brac without batting an eyelash, is that what you want to hear?” Luke shook his head. “I’m just trying to understand.” Priest took the first exit ramp they came to and pulled into a truck stop. He found a dark corner in the back of the lot and turned off the engine. “If it’s okay with you, I’d rather catch a few hours of sleep here before moving on.”

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“Sure.” Luke gestured to the gas station. “I’m gonna get a drink and go pee. You want anything?” “I’ve got water in the cooler,” Priest reminded Luke. “And you’re a man, so you can pretty much pee anywhere.” “Are you asking me not to go inside?” Luke asked. Priest stared at him for several moments. “Will you come back?” The vulnerability in those four words had the power to move Luke like nothing ever had. Luke launched himself at Priest, happy when Priest’s strong arms caught him in a tight embrace. “Are you afraid I’ll leave because you’ll miss me or do you think I’ll run off and tell someone everything you’ve told me?” “The former. I wouldn’t have told you about myself if I didn’t trust you, and believe me, my trust doesn’t come easily.” Luke pulled Priest’s head down for a deep kiss. Killer or not, the trust went both ways. As stupid as it sounded, he didn’t fear being with Priest, he feared being without him. Breaking the kiss, Luke looked deep into Priest’s dark brown eyes. “I really gotta pee.”

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Chapter Five

Priest felt half-drunk with fatigue when they arrived at the turn-off. After putting the van into park, he reached over and laid a hand on Luke’s shoulder. “We’re almost there.” Luke rubbed his eyes and sat up further in the seat. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to fall asleep.” “No problem. I’m used to driving alone.” Priest handed Luke the drawn map to the cabin. “I figured you’d want to be awake for this stretch since you’ll probably have to come back into town for more groceries in a few days.” He was glad he’d paid the extra to have the manager stock the fridge with basics, because all he wanted was a soft bed and Luke’s ass wrapped around his cock. “Would you mind if I drove the rest of the way?” Luke asked, unbuckling his seat belt. “It’ll be easier for me to remember the way if I drive it myself.” “Not at all.” Priest got out and went around to the passenger side as Luke slid behind the wheel. Priest didn’t bother with a seatbelt for the short stretch to the cabin, he hated the damn things. He reached over and placed his hand casually on Luke’s thigh. It still wasn’t clear to him whether or not Luke would be able to handle Priest’s past, but the fact that the man was still with him spoke volumes for his willingness to try. “I had a dream about you,” Luke said, driving down the gravel road. “A good dream?” Priest asked, his hand moving further up Luke’s thigh. “Not that kind of dream.” Luke grinned and reached down to move Priest’s hand even higher. “You were in trouble and you were calling for me, but I couldn’t get to you fast enough. Have you ever had those dreams where you’re trying to run but, like, the ground keeps sucking your feet down like it’s mud or something?” Priest shook his head. “I don’t let myself dream.” Luke rolled his eyes. “You can’t stop yourself from dreaming.” “I can. With all the things I’ve seen and done, if I couldn’t switch off my subconscious I’d never sleep.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Maybe you can teach me that trick while we’re here,” Luke said, turning down a dirt road. The trees were so overgrown they barely left a path wide enough to drive the van through. “Are you sure this is right?” Priest grabbed the sheet of paper and studied the handwritten directions. “That’s what it says. The manager of the place promised me it was secluded.” “Guess he wasn’t kidding.” After driving almost two miles along the rutted dirt track, a log cabin came into view. Although small, the house looked to be only a few years old. From the front, Priest was able to make out a portion of the back deck. “I think I’m paying for the privacy and the view.” Luke stopped the minivan in front of the cabin and turned off the engine. “I’m glad I’ve got you with me because it’s kinda creepy out here. You don’t think I’ll see Bigfoot, do you?” Priest held up his booted foot. “I think you already have.” Laughing, Luke opened the door. “I think I’ve done more than seen it.” Priest went to open the door when movement in the trees caught his attention. “Get down,” he ordered, pulling the Smith and Wesson out of the glove box. Luke did as he was told, folding himself between the dash and the seat. “What is it?” “I don’t know. Stay here.” Priest slipped out of the minivan and sprinted towards the nearest tree, his gun at the ready. He peered around the trunk, looking for anything, prepared to shoot at the slightest movement. “Come out you bastard,” he growled under his breath. With Luke unarmed in the van, Priest didn’t dare venture any further. As he continued to study the area, doubts began to form. There was absolutely no way anyone from the agency could have followed them and arrived at the exact location before they did. He’d rented the cabin with cash, under a brand new identity, so unless the manager was an agency informant…no, not even then. Shit. Despite the cold, Priest had to wipe the sweat from his forehead before it dripped into his eyes. He lowered his weapon and walked back to the van. “You can get out now.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“What happened?” Luke brushed his hair out of his face as he climbed out. “I thought I saw movement. Probably just a deer or something, but I’ve learned to be cautious.” Priest wrapped an arm around Luke’s waist, pulling him closer. “Sorry if I scared you.” Luke laid his head against Priest’s chest. “Better safe than sorry, right?” Luke’s understanding never ceased to amaze Priest. Of course he hadn’t told Luke about his latest assignment. Speaking of which…Priest pulled out his phone and checked for coverage. The manager had assured him he’d be able to get reception and sure enough, he saw three strong bars. “The key should be under the mat. Why don’t you go on in? I just need to make a phone call.” Priest kissed the top of Luke’s head, hugging him tighter as he did. Luke pulled away and opened the back of the van. “Want me to take your bag in?” “I’ll get it, but you can grab that box.” Luke shouldered his duffle bag and grabbed the milk crate filled with snacks they’d picked up along the way. Priest waited for Luke to unlock the door and enter the house before calling Jessup. “Something wrong?” Jessup answered. “No, well, I’m not sure. We arrived a few minutes ago, but I thought I saw someone in the woods beside the house.” As he talked, Priest continued to study the area. “It’s remote enough, but I can’t shake the feeling I’m being watched.” “I learned a long time ago to trust my instincts,” Jessup said. “Did you take anything other than your Smith and Wesson?” “Are you kidding? I brought a whole damn arsenal.” Priest smiled and waved at Luke through the window. Damn, he was cute. Luke motioned for Priest to come inside. “Anyway, I just wanted you to know we made it. I’ll call tomorrow.” “Keep your eyes open,” Jessup reminded him. “Will do.” Priest hung up the phone and shoved it into his pocket. He chuckled when he spotted Luke pulling goofy faces at him. Even hiding out in the middle of

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nowhere, the guy seemed to make it all worthwhile. Priest wasn’t sure how Luke had managed to do it, but he was definitely starting to creep under Priest’s skin. He grabbed his suitcase and the duffle bag of weapons and shut the hatch. Shouldering both bags, Priest started towards the house, his eyes still on his surroundings. He’d have to get Luke to make a run to the store later so he could check out the woods without drawing suspicion. Priest entered the cabin before locking the door. At first look, the house seemed a bit worn, like a rental property no one bothered to treat as their own. He’d been in worse, he’d been in better, but the man still standing beside the large picture window made him forget about everything but the view. “Isn’t this place great?” Luke asked, crossing the room towards the back wall of sliding glass doors. “There’s a huge deck with a hot tub. With all the trees around, it’ll feel like we’re taking a bath in the forest.” Priest set his bags down and joined Luke. “I bet it’s pretty earlier in the fall.” With his hands on his hips, Luke stared out at the landscape. “I bet there’s a killer sunset tonight.” Priest wondered if Luke’s slip of the tongue had anything to do with him being worried. He stepped up behind Luke and wrapped Luke in his arms. “You know you’re safe with me, right?” “Sure. The way I see it, if you’d wanted me dead you’d have left me in Cattle Valley.” Luke turned and snuggled against Priest’s chest. “I keep telling myself I should be afraid of you, but when I’m with you, all I feel is protected.” He looked up at Priest. “What do you see when you look at me?” Priest asked. The question had been on his mind since he’d told Luke the truth of what he did for a living. He stilled, the answer more important to him than drawing his next breath. Luke stared up at him for several moments. “I see a man who suffers to keep his country safe. I won’t pretend to understand why you’ve chosen to do what you do, but I’m sure a lot of people are alive because of it.” Priest let out his breath, cupped Luke’s cheek, and prayed Luke truly meant what he’d said. “It would be so easy to let myself go with you.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“So do it,” Luke whispered. “I’ve never wanted to be responsible for someone else’s life.” “I’m not asking you to be responsible for me.” No, Luke didn’t strike Priest as the kind of man who needed to be taken care of. Still he would be a weakness for any of Priest’s enemies to exploit. He should put Luke on the first plane back to Wyoming. “Priest?” Staring down into Luke’s trusting eyes, Priest knew he couldn’t just walk away. Which meant he needed to figure out who the hell he’d killed and why. “First thing in the morning I need to make a trip to DC,” he announced. “What? We just got here,” Luke started to argue. “Just for the day. I’ll be back tomorrow night.” Priest knew he was taking a chance, but he couldn’t think of a better way to throw the agency off track than to hack the systems needed while in the DC area. “Will I be safe here?” Luke asked. “You know how to shoot?” “Yeah. I mean, I’m not in your league or anything, but I’ve gone hunting before.” What the hell am I doing? Priest released Luke and walked into the kitchen. Luke was in the business of saving people. How could Priest have dragged Luke into a life that might require him to take a life? Priest opened the fridge and pulled out a can of beer. He rarely drank. Liquor dulled the senses and he couldn’t remember a single time in his adult life that he hadn’t needed to be in full control. He’d asked the manager to deliver a twelve pack along with the groceries, knowing Luke enjoyed the stuff. Taking his drink to the kitchen table, Priest pulled out a chair. He heard Luke wander into the room, but didn’t turn around. “I keep telling myself I should break things off and send you home.” Luke appeared at his side, beer in hand, naked as the day he was born. He climbed on top of the table in front of Priest and took a swig of his beer. “Why?”

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Looking at the expanse of beautifully inked skin, Priest found it difficult to think clearly. “I’m afraid of putting you in the position of killing someone,” he admitted. “I’ve done it before.” Luke tipped his can back and took a long swallow. “I’m not as innocent as you think I am.” “Bullshit. Not being able to save someone’s life isn’t the same as killing them.” Priest set his drink on the table. He needed his hands free to touch, and Luke’s gorgeous body nearly begged for it. The idea of Luke believing he’d killed someone by not saving them set his teeth on edge. “If I confess something I’ve never told a living soul, would you trust me enough to tell me what’s really going on?” Luke asked, spreading his legs. Priest shook his head. “I only hear confessions from men destined to die. You aren’t one of those men.” There was nothing Luke could confess that would come close to Priest’s sins. “Is that why they call you Priest?” Luke asked. “Yes.” He ran his hand up Luke’s thigh to encircle his hardening cock. It’s time, he told himself. “There was a woman here in Virginia that I was hired to kill,” Priest began. As he told Luke the entire story, he continued to stroke Luke’s body. Luke’s brow furrowed as Priest broke every rule in the book by giving him detailed information on a hit. Once he was finished, he pushed his chair back, stood and kissed Luke softly on the lips. “That’s it. You know everything I know about the situation I’m faced with.” “We’re faced with,” Luke corrected. Priest rested his hands on his hips. “You’re still determined to stay even knowing what you do about me?” “I won’t lie, I’m scared shitless, but not of you. I can’t pretend to understand what you’re going through. You trusted these people to give you accurate information, but now you’re blaming yourself for something that wasn’t your fault.”

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Luke reached up and placed his hands on Priest’s chest. “Maybe I’m completely out of my mind, but I’d be really pissed if I were you.” “I am, but that might be a good thing. I’ve wanted to quit for a while. Although I wouldn’t have chosen to go out like this, at least I’ll either be dead or free by Christmas.” Luke wrapped his arms and legs around Priest. “I vote for free. Why don’t you try calling that guy, Jeffries, you told me about. I bet if you told him you wanted out he’d understand.” “He keeps leaving me messages, but I haven’t listened to them,” Priest admitted. He picked Luke up and carried him out of the kitchen. “Why?” “Bedroom?” Priest asked. Luke pointed towards the other side of the living room. “There’re two. I put my stuff in the one with the big window that looks out over the valley.” Priest headed that way, nuzzling Luke’s neck. “You didn’t answer my question. Why haven’t you listened to your messages?” “Because I can’t believe anything Jeff says at this point. He’s good at what he does.” Priest sat Luke beside the bed and started on removing his clothes. “We should shower.” “So talk to someone else. Surely Jeffries isn’t the only one at the agency that you’ve dealt with.” Luke wandered into the attached bathroom and turned on the shower. “There’s a guy, Sully, that Jessup thinks I should call,” Priest said, thinking aloud. “Of course I don’t know if I can trust him any more than I can Jeffries.” “Who’s the boss at that place? Can’t you call him?” Luke asked, returning to the bedroom. Priest removed his jeans and tossed them into the corner. He wrapped his arms around Luke and carried him back into the bathroom. “No one talks directly with the boss. Hell, I don’t really know who he is, but I do know the agency’s front man.” Luke opened the shower door and stepped under the spray. “You should call him. What do you have to lose?” www.total-e-bound.com

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Priest shut the door and reached for a wrapped bar of soap. He tore off the paper and threw it over the top of the safety glass. He doubted he’d be able to get through to Jasper, but it might be worth a try. At least he’d know exactly where he stood. After building a foamy lather in his hands, Priest set the soap on the shelf. He started on Luke’s neck and slowly made his way down, scrubbing every inch. “I’ll give him a call tomorrow before I hack the DOD’s computer system.” Luke lifted his arms and waited while Priest washed them. Priest traced the red marks tattooed into the design on Luke’s wrists. “What’re these?” Luke pulled his arm out of Priest’s grip. “Nothing.” Priest’s eyes narrowed as he took a moment to study the artwork covering Luke’s body. He tapped the Chinese symbol for mother. Uncharacteristically, Luke had a dagger pierced through the letters. “Did your mother betray you?” Luke’s eyes rounded. “You read Chinese?” “Of course.” Priest motioned towards the tattoo. “Answer my question.” “Other way around. I betrayed her,” Luke admitted. “I thought you said she died when you were a kid.” “She did.” Luke picked up the soap. Turning his back to Priest, he began to wash the rest of his body. The simple action spoke volumes. Priest pressed himself against Luke’s back. He took the soap out of Luke’s hands and finished the job he’d started. “It’s none of my business,” he whispered in Luke’s ear. “No, it’s something you should know.” “Not if it’s going to upset you,” Priest argued, cleaning Luke’s groin. “Growing up, my mom always put up an artificial tree. One day at school I heard some kids talking about this place outside Cattle Valley that you could go and cut down a real tree. I begged my mom for two weeks to get a real tree for a change.” Luke turned around and stared up at Priest. “She must’ve gotten tired of me whining about it because she finally relented.” Priest had a strong feeling he knew where the story was going. He moved his cleaning efforts to Luke’s back and ass as he continued to listen. www.total-e-bound.com

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“I was asleep in the backseat when I felt the first jolt. I opened my eyes in time to see the view out the window turn upside down. It took a minute for me to realise what was happening as the car continued to roll down an embankment. I can still remember covering my ears to muffle the screams. It wasn’t until the car came to a rest that I realised it was my screams that I’d heard.” When Luke’s body began to shake, Priest dropped the soap onto the floor and wrapped his arms around him. “That’s enough. Don’t do this to yourself.” “I haven’t gotten to the worst part yet.” He leaned his forehead against Priest’s chest. “When I finally stopped screaming, I heard my mom asking for help. I unbuckled my seat belt and looked over the front seat. What I saw was a monster. Evidently, a rock or stump…something, had broken the windshield. Although I heard my mom’s voice, the woman lying in the front seat had no skin on one side of her face. Blood was everywhere, and the monster was asking me to get help.” Luke shook his head. “I just sat there, staring. I couldn’t even answer her. The next thing I knew, a man was shaking me.” Luke tried to pull out of Priest’s embrace, but Priest refused to let him go. “It was dark and I was sitting by the trunk of the car.” Luke shook his head. “Just sitting. I hadn’t even tried to go get help.” “You were in shock.” “You think my mom would’ve let shock stop her from trying to save my life? I let her down when she needed me the most.” Luke shrugged. “I let everyone down eventually.” “Bullshit.” Priest reached over Luke’s shoulder and turned off the water. He hoisted Luke into his arms and stepped out of the shower. Never had he felt the urge to protect someone from themselves, but Luke had obviously allowed the past to colour his view of himself. He held Luke with one arm as he grabbed a bath sheet off the shelf and wrapped it around Luke’s shivering body. He pulled back the covers and laid Luke in bed. “I’ll be right back.” Priest left Luke alone as he set a kettle of water on the stove. He gripped the countertop as he struggled to breathe. Luke had punished himself his entire life

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because as a child he’d been unable to help save his mother. How many men had Priest killed without feeling an ounce of remorse? He was so lost in thought, the whistle of the kettle made him jump. He fixed two mugs of hot tea and carried them to the bedroom. Standing in the doorway, Priest wasn’t surprised to find Luke sound asleep. He set the cups down on the bedside table before grabbing his dirty jeans. After fishing out the prepaid cell phone, Priest dropped the jeans and walked back into the living room. “Hello?” Jessup answered. “I’m out of my depth here,” Priest blurted out. “What happened?” Jessup asked, sounding alarmed. “I think I’m falling for the kid, and I don’t know what to do about it.” Jessup chuckled. “It’s about time the love bug bit ya.” “It’s not funny,” Priest grumbled. “You know the kind of man I am. The things I’ve done.” “Yep, the same things I’ve done, and weren’t you the one who helped convince me I was worth loving?” “Not the same,” Priest said, shaking his head. “It’s exactly the same.” “No, it’s not. I don’t know the first thing about making someone feel better when they’re down or how to take care of someone who gets sick. These are skills I’ve never possessed.” “Then I’d say it’s about time you learned.” “I don’t have time to learn. I’ve got a mystery to solve and an agency who would probably like nothing more than to see me dead.” “I guess you should first decide what’s more important to you. Because if it’s not that man with you, you’d both be better off backing away. Brac’s the most important thing in my life. If it came right down to it, I’d give up everything for one more day with him.” Priest knew he couldn’t say the same, not yet anyway. Although he thought he might be falling in love, he wasn’t ready to put Luke before the sense of selfpreservation he’d always carried. “So that’s it? All or nothing?” www.total-e-bound.com

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“You’re not like most men, Priest. You don’t have the luxury of taking your time with Luke. Every minute you’re with him, he’s in danger. Ask yourself one question. Are you willing to die to save him?” The answer hit Priest like a ton of bricks. “I need to go.” He hung up without another word and tossed the phone on the counter. Throwing open the sliding door, he walked out onto the deck. The December chill quickly settled into his bones as he stood naked, looking out at the valley below. What kind of man was he? He’d risked his life for years for his country but couldn’t say he’d do the same for a man he cared deeply for. Mad at himself and the circumstances that had made him what he was, Priest screamed his frustrations at the top of his lungs. He was so caught up in self-loathing he didn’t hear Luke until he burst through the open door, shotgun in hand. Priest reacted on instinct and quickly ripped the gun away from Luke. “What the hell are you doing?” Luke panted while rubbing his chest. “I thought you were in trouble.” “So you run straight toward it with a gun?” The gesture was a reminder of everything Luke was and everything he wasn’t. Luke took a step back. “Well, yeah.” Priest pushed past Luke and went into the house. He removed the shell and placed the gun back into the duffle bag. “There’s been a change in plans. I’m going to drop you by an airport and send you on home.” “But I thought…” Luke sputtered. “That’s the problem, kid. You’re starting to think too much. I’ve got a job to do, and it’s something I have to do on my own.” “Is this because of what I told you earlier?” “It has nothing to do with that. I just need some space to sort out a few things.” Priest wasn’t sure what to do with himself. He was tired and quickly becoming out of sorts, but going to bed didn’t feel like the best thing to do. “Where does that leave me?” Luke asked. “In Cattle Valley where you belong,” Priest growled. “Then why wait? Why not drive me to the airport right now?” www.total-e-bound.com

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It was the first time Priest had seen a true spark of anger come from Luke. For some reason the unexpected emotion jarred Priest. The last thing he wanted was for Luke to end up hating him. Dammit, he just needed time. Priest sat heavily on the couch and threw up his hands. “I don’t want to argue with you. I can think of a much better way to spend our last night together.” “Oh, so you want me to shut the fuck up and bare my ass hole, is that it?” The madder Luke became, the hornier it made Priest. With his cock as hard as steel, Priest jumped to his feet. He marched across the room and towered over Luke. “This situation has gone far beyond anything I’m comfortable with. Forgive me if I wanted the chance to hold you once more before I go toe to toe with an entire agency of paid assassins.” Priest retreated to the bedroom. Horny or not, he’d be damned if he’d beg for sex from anyone, let alone Luke.

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Chapter Six

Luke counted to thirty before following Priest into the bedroom. He leaned against the doorjamb and crossed his arms. “Will I ever see you again?” Already under the covers, Priest rolled over to face Luke. “I hope so.” He reached out to Luke. “You’re the first person I’ve ever said that to.” Luke uncrossed his arms and stepped towards the bed, taking Priest’s hand in his. He sat at Priest’s side and ran his free hand over the top of the man’s bald head. “Let me make love to you.” Priest started to shake his head no, but a hand to his chin stopped the motion. “That’s something I don’t do.” “Ever?” Luke questioned. “Ever.” Priest grabbed Luke’s wrist. “Why would you ask that?” “Because I want to know I matter to you. I want something you’ve never given to someone else.” Priest lifted Luke’s hand to his mouth and kissed it. “You’ve already been given so much more than anyone I’ve ever known. Greedy?” Luke took the opportunity to slide under the covers. He turned onto his side and pressed himself against Priest. “Maybe I am greedy. Does that make me a bad person?” Priest’s hand slid to the swell of Luke’s ass, pulling him closer. “Despite what you think of yourself, I know there isn’t a bad bone in your body. A few moments ago you ran naked out into the cold with a shotgun because you thought I was in trouble.” “You would’ve done the same.” Priest’s grip on Luke’s ass tightened. “We’re not talking about me.” Luke reached between them and wrapped his hand around as much of Priest’s cock as he could. “Why are we talking at all when we could be doing other things?” “Because you said…”

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Luke shut Priest up with a kiss. He delved his tongue inside the warmth of Priest’s mouth, hoping to prove to Priest without words how much the two of them were meant to be together. He squirmed as Priest’s finger brushed against his hole, seeking entrance. Breaking the kiss, Luke pulled back enough to stare Priest in the eyes. “Lube.” Priest groaned and released Luke. “I think we left it in the van.” Luke grinned, remembering their erotic night in the back of the minivan. He vaguely recalled the bottle of lube rolling under the front seat. “Luckily I brought my own supplies.” He rolled out of bed and fished through his duffle bag until he came up with a box of condoms and a small tube of lube. Holding them high above his head, Luke jumped back in bed. “Only three condoms, so you’ll have to take it easy on me.” “Unless I get desperate and make a run out to the van,” Priest corrected, taking the tube from Luke. The thought of spending hours on a plane with a sore ass flashed through his mind, but Luke decided it would be worth it. He’d finally met a man who cared about him. Despite what Priest said about needing space, Luke knew Priest cared more than he was letting on. The tip of Priest’s finger found Luke’s hole and slowly pushed inside. “What would you do with me if I showed up in Cattle Valley once all this was over?” “You mean besides this?” Luke began fucking himself on Priest’s hand. “Yeah. I’m not the kind of man who can just settle down and get a job like Jessup did. I’m not exactly cop material.” “We’ll think of something.” Luke rolled to his back, while Priest continued to stretch his hole. He wasn’t naïve enough to think a future with Priest was a certainty. Not only did the man have a very dangerous mission ahead of him, but boredom was a real possibility if he moved to Cattle Valley. “Where will you live?” Priest paused in the process of rolling a condom down the length of his cock. “I have a house on eighty acres outside of town. I guess if I have the time, I’d like to tear that down and build a new one.”

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Although Priest hadn’t mentioned the two of them living together, Luke tried to hold onto the dream that they could get to that point. Pushing Priest into something he wasn’t ready for would only make him bolt. Luke spread his legs and welcomed Priest’s weight on top of him. The first kiss of Priest’s cockhead against his hole sent shivers racing up Luke’s spine. He held onto Priest’s muscular back as his body slowly accepted the impressive length. The burn was pain Luke happily welcomed, but the distant expression on the big man’s face worried him. Perhaps Priest was lying about their future together. It wouldn’t be the first time Luke had been lied to, probably wouldn’t be the last. Looming over Luke, Priest finally made eye contact, regarding him with an unreadable expression. “What?” Priest continued to stare for several seconds before shaking his head. “Nothing. Feels good.” Luke nodded. “Yeah, it does.” His worry crept to the back of his mind as Priest withdrew and surged back inside. Live in the moment, he warned himself. With a man like Priest, it would become crucial for Luke to remember that. “You with me?” Priest asked. Luke tried to hide his private thoughts with a grin. He looked down his body to the point where the two of them were connected. “I’m right here,” he said in return. With a satisfied grunt, Priest’s rhythm increased in speed and power. With each thrust, he captured more of Luke’s attention, forcing him with exquisite pleasure to forget the self-doubts still clinging to the hope he carried in his heart. I deserve this, Luke said to himself. He wrapped his legs higher around Priest’s torso, allowing for a deeper penetration. “So good,” he moaned. When his skin broke out in gooseflesh, he knew he was close. Luke reached between them and squeezed his cock. “I’m coming.” “So am I,” Priest growled.

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It was the first time the two of them had been so closely in accord. Luke held back until he saw the screwed up look on Priest’s face that signalled his climax. Luke let go and rode the wave of pleasure only Priest could deliver. “James!” Luke screamed, only realising he’d used Priest’s real name after it had already left his mouth. He stilled. “Sorry,” he panted. Priest had reluctantly told Luke his real name during the drive to Virginia, but made Luke promise to never use it. “Don’t be.” Priest remained inside Luke for several moments before withdrawing. He took care of the condom before pulling Luke to him. “I’ve never heard my name called out like that.” Luke kissed Priest’s chest. “Once you leave the agency will you continue to identify with your nickname?” “What’re you really asking?” When Luke didn’t answer right away, Priest rolled to his side. “I’ve told you everything. I know you’ve got questions, so ask.” “I’d like the chance to get to know James Evans. I guess I want to believe Priest will retire eventually.” “You wanna know if I’m going to kill people after I break ties with the agency?” “Yeah.” Luke held his breath. The answer was the key to everything. Priest sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed. With his back to Luke, he rested his forearms on his thighs and lowered his head. It was a very telling reaction to Luke’s question. Without a word, Luke climbed out of bed, retreating to the bathroom. He’d been a fucking idiot to believe Priest could leave his life behind and settle down. Pipe dreams. Luke had filled his life with them, always searching, always left broken-hearted. He turned on the shower and stepped inside before the water had a chance to warm. The cold spray against his heated skin was the slap in the face he deserved. He’d left the safety of his home to travel across the country with a man he barely knew, only to find himself falling in love before they reached their destination.

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“And here I stand. More alone than ever,” he mumbled. He’d made concessions for Priest’s past, telling himself it was a job that needed to be done to ensure the safety of his country. But the idea of Priest continuing in his present line of work was more than Luke could handle. By the time he finished his shower, Luke knew there was only one thing left to do. He wrapped a towel around his waist and entered the bedroom. He wasn’t surprised to find the room empty. Luke wasted no time getting dressed. He shoved his dirty clothes into the duffle along with the lube and condoms Priest had set on the bedside table. It would have been so nice to spend a couple of weeks hidden away from the outside world with Priest at his side. Unfortunately, it wasn’t going to happen. He’d thought he could live in the moment and enjoy the time they had together but that was before his heart betrayed him and he fell in love.

**** After seeing Luke off at the airport, Priest headed towards Washington DC. The guilt he felt over his refusal to answer Luke’s question continued to eat at him. The truth was, Priest had no idea what life had in store for him. He was a trained assassin. It wasn’t like he could just pick up another line of work. While gassing up his car in Alexandria, Virginia, Priest pulled out his agency phone and finally checked his messages. “It’s imperative you check in with me,” the message from Jeffries said. Priest rolled his eyes and deleted the message before being directed to the next. “You’re making it harder on yourself. I can’t keep the bosses out of this forever,” Jeffries warned. Each message was similar, ordering Priest to call with his location or asking for a meeting at a determined location. Priest was glad he hadn’t listened to them earlier because hearing them in succession gave him a real sense that something was definitely wrong. The last message wasn’t from Jeffries. A deep voice spoke a series of numbers into the phone. It had been years since Priest had received a strictly binary communication. www.total-e-bound.com

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He began to search the front seat for a sheet of paper, eventually coming up with a sales receipt. Replaying the message, he wrote down the digits as they were spoken. Making sure he’d written the numbers down correctly, he deleted the message and turned off the phone. Priest put the minivan in gear and drove around Alexandria until he found a twenty-four hour Walmart Supercenter. After shoving the slip of paper into his back pocket, Priest locked the van and headed towards the store. He went straight to the magazine rack and chose the latest copy of Field and Stream. Every agent was taught the same process for decoding sensitive messages, but they were each given a different sourcebook. Priest’s happened to be Field and Stream. With the magazine tucked under his arm, he took the opportunity to pick up three premade sandwiches from the deli section as well as a two-litre of pop. Getting back into the van, Priest set his purchases in the passenger seat as he pulled out of the parking lot. He knew from experience he would have to continually move around as well as stay vigilant if he hoped to survive long enough to decipher the message. He’d taken a chance checking his messages, but he was damn glad he had. Something was definitely going on with Jeffries. After a quick glance at the clock, Priest left Alexandria and headed Northwest. Half-way between Alexandria and McLean, he turned into a residential neighbourhood. Typical of well-built housing developments, he easily found a small park and turned off the engine. Using the glow from a nearby street lamp, Priest pulled out the magazine he’d purchased earlier. Using the series of numbers he’d been given, he slowly worked his way through the code. Once he’d finished, he stared at the sheet of paper. Danger. Jeffries AWOL, followed by an out-of-area phone number. Priest dug a new prepaid phone out of the glove box and dialled the number. “Constantine Pizza.” “Is Jeffries working tonight?” Priest asked. There was a series of clicks as the call was secured. “I’ve been waiting for your call,” came the reply. www.total-e-bound.com

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Priest recognised the deep voice immediately. Midnight. None of the agents actually knew what Midnight’s purpose was at the agency, but Priest had a feeling he was about to find out. “I’ve been laying low. Am I wrong in believing something wasn’t right with my last assignment?” “According to our records, your last assignment was over four months ago. Accounting noticed a discrepancy in your duty roster versus your expense account. Can you explain that?” “Before last week, I’ve worked nonstop for the last eight years. What the hell is going on down there?” Priest asked. He started the van and pulled away from the park, suddenly feeling exposed. “That’s what we were afraid of. Can you come in?” Midnight asked. With the phone cradled between his shoulder and ear, Priest gripped the steering wheel. “Look, I don’t know what the hell is going on there, but I’ve done absolutely nothing that I wasn’t hired to do. All my orders came from my handler.” “We’re beginning to understand that.” There was a dramatic sigh on the other end of the phone. “We believe Jeffries has been taking independent contracts, but you’re the only one who can prove it. We know it and he knows it. It would be in your best interest to cooperate with us on this.” “What guarantee do I have that I’ll live to walk out of a meeting with you?” “None. But I can guarantee you won’t see Christmas unless you give us the information we need to take down Jeffries.” “I’ll be labelled a traitor by the other agents.” “No you won’t. No one but myself and the Director know anything about Jeffries’ side jobs.” “I’ll agree to meet you, but it has to be somewhere away from headquarters,” Priest offered. He knew he wasn’t in a position to make demands, but he had a better chance of survival in public. “Where?” “Flanagan’s in Bethesda, two o’clock tomorrow.” Priest waited for several moments. “Deal?” “We’ll be there.” www.total-e-bound.com

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The call ended abruptly, leaving Priest to wonder whether or not he was making the right decision. He was glad he’d put Luke on the plane. The way it sounded, the agency was in the midst of a major shake-up in personnel, a dangerous position to be in when dealing with a company full of paid assassins. Although he knew Luke didn’t have his phone turned on, Priest couldn’t help himself. He used the same prepaid phone he’d used to call the mystery man and punched in Luke’s number. The recording of Luke’s cheerful voice was enough to lower Priest’s blood pressure. “Hey, it’s Luke. If you’re lookin’ for trouble, you’ve come to the right place. Leave a message, and I’ll get back to you.” “It’s me. Just wanted to apologise for the way things went down. I’m sure you’re thinking I don’t care, but I do, maybe too much.” Priest hung up before he said something he’d end up regretting. He turned the phone off and set it on the console between the seats along with the agency phone. He’d need to hand in his agency phone with Jeffries’ messages still intact to prove the two hadn’t been in contact. Otherwise Priest would have happily thrown the damn thing into the Potomac River.

**** After a long night of flights and layovers, Luke’s plane finally landed in Sheridan. He was both happy and embarrassed to see Kenny waiting for him. “Hey,” he greeted his best friend. Kenny gave Luke a lopsided grin before pulling him into a hug. Luke had always loved Kenny’s hugs. There was something so accepting about his friendship. Luke knew that Kenny, more than anyone, was responsible for anything good within him. “Sorry things didn’t work out,” Kenny said, drawing back. Luke shrugged and shouldered his bag. “Does it ever?” Kenny wrapped an arm around Luke’s neck and steered him towards the parking lot. “It will someday when the time’s right.”

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Luke was dying to tell Kenny what Priest did for a living, but he knew it wasn’t a good idea. Not only would Kenny flip out, but Priest had trusted him with the information in the first place. Still, Luke needed to talk to someone. He wished he were closer to Jessup. Sure, he knew the guy, but mostly on a professional level. After stowing his duffle, Luke climbed in and buckled up. “Looks like snow.” “They’re predicting some this afternoon. You got in just in time.” Kenny reached over and turned off the radio. “You can leave it on.” “I thought you might want to talk,” Kenny said. “Not much to say, really. We get along great. The sex is fucking unbelievable, and I can’t imagine finding a more perfect fit for myself.” “So why am I picking you up?” “Priest was called into work.” Luke could tell by the expression on Kenny’s face that he didn’t buy it. “Okay, I think I pushed him too far too soon. He said he needed some time to work a few things out.” “Hell, Luke, he just came back to town a week ago. You can’t honestly tell me you’ve fallen in love with him.” Luke turned his head to stare out the passenger window. It was hard to explain his connection to Priest. Sure, he’d only really known the man for a week, but they’d spent almost every moment together. “I know him better than I knew Stretch. Believe me, you learn a lot about a person when you’re trapped in a car with them for almost two days.” Kenny shook his head, but held his tongue. Luke gave him high marks for his self-restraint, something Kenny wasn’t known for. As tired as Luke had been when his plane landed, the closer they were to Cattle Valley, the more keyed up Luke became. “I think I’ll go for a run before the snow falls.” “What about your knee?” “It’s fine. I’ll wrap it, but it shouldn’t cause me any trouble.” The important thing was clearing his head, something only running provided. Halfway home, Luke began to ache for Priest. He should beg Kenny to turn around and take him back to the airport. How pathetic. When Priest had dropped www.total-e-bound.com

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him off at the ticket counter in Virginia, it had felt like goodbye. Neither of them had said it, but the sombre expression on Priest’s face when he’d kissed Luke for the last time seemed to say what neither of them had been able to. “I love him. I know it’s too soon, and you probably think I’m pretty damn pathetic, but I can’t help the way I feel.” “I’m not going to judge you,” Kenny said. “It’s just that I remember how hurt you were when things fell apart with Stretch. I don’t wanna watch you go through that again.” “Priest said he’d be back. Hell, he has a house and eighty acres outside of town. I’m not saying everything’s going to work out for us, but I’m not ready to give up on him.” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Luke began to feel better. If Priest needed time, Luke would give him as much as he could. He just prayed he wouldn’t be waiting in vain.

**** Luke rounded the corner and headed down the alley. His knee felt a little stiff, but so far it was holding up nicely. Snow had already begun to fall, but Luke embraced the fluffy flakes instead of cutting his run short. He felt more alive than he ever had before as he ran behind the downtown businesses. His peripheral vision caught movement a split second before a man stepped in front of him. Gun raised and pointed in his direction, Luke skidded to a stop. “Nice to finally meet you face to face,” the man said, pressing the gun against Luke’s forehead. Luke tried to look around without moving his head. He had a sinking feeling he knew who the man was and sticking around wouldn’t turn out well. “Jeffries?” Jeffries grinned. “Good to know my reputation precedes me.” He slid the gun around Luke’s head until it rested against the base of his skull. “Now walk towards that car at the end of the alley.” Luke had always been told never to get into a car with someone you knew was out to harm you. It was better to get hurt surrounded by people than to suffer at the

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hands of an attacker alone. One problem, not only was he already alone, but he doubted seriously that he’d survive a gunshot to his head. With little choice, Luke walked. He kept glancing up at the apartments, hoping against hope that someone would see him. Last time he’d been in need of rescuing, Deacon had helped, but Deacon’s apartment was still dark. Shit. Never had Luke felt so alone. Once they reached the sedan, Luke knew his time for escape had almost ended. He stood beside the trunk as Jeffries fished the keys out of his pocket. “Don’t move,” Jeffries warned. When he reached to unlock the trunk, Luke felt the barrel of the gun lift away from his head. Now or never, he screamed to himself as he ducked and swung out. He managed to land a punch to Jeffries’ chin a moment before the gun slammed against the side of his head. Luke was still reaching for Jeffries when he slid to the gravel below. No, not this way, he said to himself just before losing consciousness.

**** Luke’s head lolled to the side as he fought to open his eyes. For several moments he caught snatches of his surroundings before his eyes fluttered shut again. House, he knew he was in a house. “Wake up! I don’t have all day!” Luke tried once more to focus. Jeffries’ face was the only thing in his line of vision. No thanks, he’d rather go back to sleep. A kick to his knee caused Luke to cry out in pain. “You sonofabitch!” “Do I have your attention?” Jeffries asked. Luke tried to reach for his injured knee, but couldn’t move his hands. He looked down to find both arms tied to a chair. “Untie me.” Jeffries cackled. “Sure, buddy, anything you want.” He laughed again before holding a wicked looking hunting knife in front of Luke’s face. “This belongs to your boyfriend, so I think it’s only right we use it for our little game, don’t you?”

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“Fuck you!” Luke tugged against the restraints, trying to free himself. He hissed when the sharp blade made a cut across his forearm. Jeffries laughed and shook his finger. “Now calm down so I can tell you the rules of our game.” It wasn’t hard for Luke to see he was at Jeffries’ mercy, so he stilled. “I don’t like games.” “You’ll like this one.” Jeffries pursed his lips. “Well, maybe not, but I’ll like it.” He held the knife up once more. “Now, here are the rules. I’m going to ask questions. Every time you don’t answer, I get a point. If you answer with one of your typical smartass remarks, I get a point. Oh, and by the way, I’m keeping score on your body. So…shall we begin?” Luke had no doubt Jeffries would kill him once he had the information he wanted, so what was the point of playing? No way in hell would he give Priest up. If Luke was going to die, and least he could do his best to keep Priest alive. “Where exactly is your boyfriend?” Jeffries asked. “Probably fucking your mamma.” Luke gritted his teeth when Jeffries drew the blade down his calf. “Wrong answer.” Jeffries reached for a T-shirt on the nearby bed and wiped the blood from the knife. “Let’s try again. Where. Is. Priest?” Luke shook his head. When the cold steel sliced across his upper arm, Luke fought to keep his reaction hidden. He may not be able to stop his own death, but he refused to give Jeffries the satisfaction of knowing how much pain he was in. “Stupid man,” Jeffries admonished. “I’ll find him anyway. Do you really want Priest to know you suffered like this? What do you think that’ll do to him?” Luke tried to think of the situation from Priest’s point of view. He hated to admit it, but Jeffries was right. It would probably crush Priest to know Luke had been tortured until he’d drawn his last breath. “Okay, let’s try a different question. Priest has files that I need. Tell me where he keeps them, and I’ll think about letting you live long enough to see your lover once more.” Jeffries smiled. “That is, until I remove his eyes from their sockets. I want him to hear your screams before I kill him.” www.total-e-bound.com

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When Luke didn’t answer right away, the blade dug deeper into his skin as it sliced down his chest. Blood began to flow from the wound. At the rate Mr Sadistic was going, Luke would be dead before he had a chance to see Priest anyway. Still, Luke knew if he had any chance of survival, it would be with Priest’s help. Before Jeffries could inflict another wound, Luke made a decision. “He has a storage unit somewhere. I heard him mention it, but I don’t know where it is.” Jeffries wrapped the T-shirt around the blade of the knife. Using the cloth as protection for his hand, Jeffries lifted the knife. The heavy handle swung down, landing a blow against Luke’s head.

**** Priest arrived at the pub an hour early. He sat away from the windows with his back to the wall and ordered a cup of hot tea. For hours, he’d thought of nothing but Luke and the situation they’d found themselves in. The waiter returned with his tea. “Can I get you anything else?” Priest shook his head, his thoughts on the phone in front of him, the desire to talk to Luke overwhelming. The need to hear Luke’s voice, more than anything, helped convince Priest his feelings were indeed genuine. In the past, the men he’d slept with hadn’t invaded his thoughts once he’d left their beds. It was different with Luke. Not only had the memories of his brief encounter with Luke driven him to buy a house and return to Cattle Valley, but the more time he spent with Luke, the more he wanted. Once again, he tried to picture himself settling down in Wyoming. The domestic side of such a life didn’t concern him. The professional aspect did. Finally giving up, Priest picked up the new prepaid phone and called Luke. The phone rang four times before it was answered. “It’s about time you called to check in with your toy,” Jeffries said. Priest’s heart skipped a beat as his hand tightened around the phone. “You have no fucking idea what you’ve just done,” he growled. “I’m afraid I do. You see I find myself in a bit of a jam, and since you haven’t responded to any of my calls, I saw no other way to get your attention.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“You’re dead,” Priest announced. Never in his life had he wanted to kill someone, until now. “So is pretty boy here if you don’t do what I tell you to do. You see, poor Luke didn’t hold up well under interrogation. I would let you talk to him, but he’s indisposed at the moment.” The thought of Jeffries laying a hand on Luke further fuelled Priest’s rage. There was no doubt in his mind Jeffries would end up dead, but Priest needed to ensure Luke wouldn’t be harmed further until that moment. “What do you want?” “Why, you, of course. Oh, and the files I know you keep after doing a job. I’ve searched your entire house and can’t find them, which tells me you’re storing them somewhere else. Your little boyfriend confirmed it.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I destroy files once the job has been completed.” It was a lie, of course. Priest had an entire storage unit full of file cabinets in a small town in Iowa. The only file he hadn’t had time to store was the one on Alhena and that was taped under the seat of the minivan. “I’m not a fool, Priest. I know you think of those written orders as a get out of jail free card.” Priest needed to stall Jeffries. “Why’d you turn traitor?” “Traitor is such an ugly word. I prefer opportunist. There was a lot of money to be made that the agency wasn’t taking advantage of. I saw a need that wasn’t being properly cultivated and decided to go into business for myself.” “So why drag me into it?” Priest asked. He spotted Sully walking into the bar. Although he was in disguise, Sully was never able to hide his true beauty under a beard, ball cap and baggy clothes. Priest stood and motioned Sully over, the action obviously surprising the assassin. No doubt Sully was ordered to arrive early and blend in with the crowd. “Not only are you the best, but you do what you’re ordered without question. An admirable trait for a soldier, but also an easy trait to exploit.” Sully approached Priest. At the same time, they opened their coats to let the other know they were armed, a professional courtesy. Priest put his finger to his lips and indicated the phone. www.total-e-bound.com

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“So, if I bring you these files you believe I have, you’ll let Luke go without harm?” Priest asked. The subtle lift of Sully’s eyebrows told Priest he’d worked out what was going on. “I think you mean further harm, don’t you?” Jeffries asked. “But I’m not stupid enough to take you on in your home territory. As we speak, I’m on the move. Tell me, in which direction should I drive?” Priest bit the inside of his cheek. “Head east towards Nebraska. I’ll call once I’ve made travel arrangements.” “Don’t take too long. It’s awfully chilly this time of year. I’d hate for your lover to catch his death. And, I think it goes without saying, I know all your tricks. Try to double-cross me and I won’t hesitate to take it out on Luke.” “You obviously don’t know me as well as you think you do, otherwise you would know I wouldn’t put my life and career in jeopardy over a piece of ass.” “Oh, so you wouldn’t mind if I stopped and killed him now?” Did he call Jeffries’ bluff or do whatever it took to ensure Luke’s safety? “No. You harm another hair on his head, and I’ll make sure your death is slow and painful.” “Big talk for someone who doesn’t hold the trump card.” Trump card? Did Jeffries have something else up his sleeve? “What’re you talking about?” “You don’t think you’re the only one with files, do you? Of course mine have all been doctored to implicate you as the mastermind behind our little side business.” Seated across from him, Sully spoke softly into a microphone hidden somewhere on his body. “Head towards Nebraska,” Priest barked before hanging up. He met Sully’s gaze. “I guess you’ve already worked out who that was?” Sully nodded. “Midnight’s on his way in.” “Just Midnight? I thought I was supposed to meet the Director.”

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Sully shook his head. “Pipe dream, brother. The Director is a phantom. No one but Midnight even knows who he is.” He stood and wrapped on the tabletop with his knuckles. “I’ll leave the two of you to your meeting, but I won’t be far.” “Of course not.” Priest took a drink of his cooling tea. Midnight walked into the pub like a man without a care in the world. As usual, he was impeccably dressed in an expensive black wool business suit. Although Midnight strode through the late lunch crowd with a smile on his face, Priest knew Midnight was seething. His pale blue eyes narrowed as he neared Priest. “Sully tells me you’ve been talking to Jeffries,” Midnight accused as he sat down. “Jeffries has Luke.” “No he doesn’t.” Midnight waved away the waiter before he could open his mouth. “How do you know that?” Priest asked. Did he dare hope Luke remained safe at home, unharmed? “Because Luke’s with the Director.”

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Chapter Seven

Luke groaned as he came to. Why the fuck did I insist on jogging, he asked himself for the hundredth time. His bruised and bleeding body protested each bump in the road as he travelled hogtied in the trunk of Jeffries’ rental car. He closed his eyes and rested his forehead against the spare tyre. When Jeffries had surprised him in the alley behind O’Brien’s, Luke had done his best to fight the man off, but quickly discovered he was no match for a gun pointed at his head. Biting his lower lip, Luke fought to stay conscious. He didn’t remember being put into the trunk of the car. His thoughts swung from his own fate to Priest. If Priest managed to survive whatever Jeffries had planned, would he ever forgive Luke for betraying him? Not that it would really matter since Luke had no doubt he was being driven to his grave. The car slowed to a stop, and Luke held his breath. Was it time? Several seconds ticked by, and he began to wonder if Jeffries had decided to abandon the car in the middle of nowhere with him still in the trunk. A loud noise echoed in his head a split second before the trunk was opened. Luke looked up at the man looming over him. “What’re you doing here?” “No time for that. Let’s get you the hell out of here.”

**** “What do you mean the Director has him?” Priest asked. He imagined Luke sitting in one of the holding areas at the agency. Had they kidnapped Luke before he made it home? “You’ve spent an inordinate amount of time with your new boyfriend. With everything else going on, it’s imperative we find out how much you’ve told him. Both for his safety and yours, of course.” “Of course.” Priest leaned over the table to get in Midnight’s face. “You harm him and Jeffries won’t be the only thing on my to-do list.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“Actually, the Director saved Luke. Jeffries has been camped out in Cattle Valley for days. It was only a matter of time before he caught up with Luke,” Midnight explained, not the least bit intimidated by Priest’s size. “Where’s Luke?” “In Sheridan. He really couldn’t ask for a better protector than the Director.” Priest couldn’t understand why the Director would take such a hands-on approach with Luke. “Why’s the Director involved at all? The agency has plenty of people they could’ve sent to do the job.” Midnight sighed. “Must you know every detail? Tell me about the phone call with Jeffries.” “He said he had Luke.” Priest had learned long ago not to show his hand until the end of the game. “What else?” “He wants me to meet him in Nebraska.” It wasn’t a lie. Priest had never flatout lied to a superior before. “Why?” Midnight continued to question. “Because he knows I can incriminate him. He admitted that he’s been accepting jobs the agency has turned down.” Now was his chance to know about the woman he’d killed in Virginia. “Who was Alhena Qasim?” “A woman who was blackmailing the Secretary of State. The married Secretary of State. Benjamin Grover wanted her and her family to go away and offered us a very large amount of money to make it happen. As you know, the agency is not in the business of handling personal vendettas so we turned him away. Evidently Grover heard through an unknown source that Jeffries was the man to take his problem and money to.” “And that’s where I came in.” Priest’s chest tightened. He knew finding out the truth would either help or increase his feelings of guilt. “What have I done?” he whispered, more to himself than Midnight. “You followed orders,” Midnight said, surprising Priest. “Don’t feel too bad. Alhena Qasim wasn’t a good person.”

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“There are a lot of those in the world,” Priest returned, “but that doesn’t mean they all deserve to die.” Grover owns a large percentage of stock in Emery-Langdon Pharmaceuticals. The same company Alhena worked for. Unbeknownst to the federal government, Emery-Langdon was conducting field trials on refugees instead of administering the immunisations they were hired to do. I don’t have exact numbers, but I’m sure there are quite a few deaths on Ms Qasim’s shoulders. That’s what she was blackmailing Grover with. Of course at the time, Grover only mentioned that he was being blackmailed by a mistress.” “So what’ll happen to Grover?” Priest asked. Not that he really cared. The man was scum as far as he was concerned. “It’s already being taken care of. I simply told you as a means to reaffirm the trust the agency has in you.” “Fair enough. I guess I should be honest with you then. After I deal with Jeffries, I’d like to start the process of leaving the agency. I’m tired of living life on the road.” “Does this have anything to do with Luke?” “It has everything to do with him. He’s a good man. I have no illusions that I’ll ever be worthy of his love, but I want to try. Which includes putting an end to my career.” Priest handed Midnight his phone. “All of Jeffries’ messages are still on there. I’ll need the phone to contact him once I get to Nebraska, but you can record whatever you need off of it before I go.” “Thanks. This’ll go a long way in building a case against him.” “You know I can’t let him live that long, right?” Midnight shrugged before motioning Sully back over to the table. “Technicality. As long as we can cover our ass on paper, I don’t really give a shit what happens to him.” “What’s up?” Sully asked. Midnight handed him Priest’s phone. “Make a copy of Jeffries’ voice messages asap.” Sully turned and headed towards the front door. www.total-e-bound.com

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“How long’s that gonna take?” Priest asked. “Five minutes.” “Good, that’ll give us time to talk about Luke,” Priest began. “I’ll make you a deal. Whether things work out for Luke and me or not, if you promise to leave us both alone, I’ll give you the files Jeffries is after.” “Your time at the agency isn’t over, Priest.” “Dammit, I told you, I’m not living that life anymore.” Midnight sat back and crossed his arms over his chest. “We need someone we can trust to take Jeffries’ job.” “Unless I can do it from Cattle Valley, I’m not interested.” Priest held out his hand for his phone as Sully came rushing back to the table. “I don’t see where that would be a problem, but I’ll have to talk it over with the Director. You do whatever you’re going to do with Jeffries and get us those files and we’ll see what we can do about shifting more of the operation to Wyoming.” “One more thing.” Priest slid out of his chair and stood. “I’m going to need a ride to Nebraska.”

**** The minute the private plane landed, Priest called Jeffries. “I’m in Omaha. Where’re you?” “Change in plans. As I’m sure you’re now aware, my little dove flew the coop, and I’m not stupid enough to go against you without some kind of leverage.” “What about those files you claim to have?” Priest asked. “Oh, I still have them, but I need to take a step back and regroup before I plan my next move. I’ll be in touch. In the meantime, I’d suggest you safeguard your own files with your life.” The call ended just as the jet came to a complete stop. “Tell the pilot to file a new flight plan to Sheridan, Wyoming.” He turned to Sully who was seated across the aisle. “He’s gone. For now. But I’ll catch up with him someday soon when he least expects it. Now tell me where Luke is!”

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Sully’s expression was one of guilt as he hung up his own phone. “He’d lost a lot of blood when the Director rescued him.” Priest struggled to breathe at the news. “Tell me he’s alive.” “He’s still in critical condition, but the doctors are optimistic.” Priest wanted to know exactly what Jeffries had done to Luke, but couldn’t bring himself to ask for details. Unbuckling his seat belt, Priest stood and began to pace the small interior of the plane. “I’m a fucking idiot!” he roared. “How could I have dragged him into this? I knew better. Men like us don’t get happy endings,” he shouted, continuing to berate himself. “So you know”—Sully said, getting Priest’s attention—“from the sound of it, Luke held on longer than most men would’ve before giving up any information. The Director was even impressed, and from what I know, that doesn’t happen much.” Priest fell to his knees in front of Sully’s chair. “What did Jeffries do to him?” Sully shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “Carved him up pretty good, I guess.” He shook his head. “I didn’t know Jeffries had it in him.” The need for revenge threatened to overwhelm Priest. He knew no matter how long it took, he would find his old handler and make him regret the day he dared lay a finger on Luke. Unfortunately, the world was a big place, and no doubt Jeffries had as many secret identities as Priest. It would take a while to track down the snake who had betrayed him. In the meantime, he had a man to nurse back to health.

**** Priest had barely exited the elevator on the ICU floor when Kenny was on him. The first punch to the jaw surprised Priest, but wasn’t enough to provoke him into fighting back. He knew exactly how Kenny felt. If it were possible to beat himself up, he’d have already done it. “You did this!” Kenny yelled, throwing another punch. Priest’s head snapped back at the blow to his nose. He heard as well as felt a crunch as the delicate bones gave way to the force of Kenny’s fist. “You’re right,” is all Priest could say. With his arms at his sides, Priest stared at Kenny. “Go ahead, hit me some more. Lord knows I deserve it.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Kenny reared back to give Priest exactly what he’d asked for when a handsome older gentleman grabbed him around the waist and pulled him out of reach. “Settle down. This isn’t the time or the place for this.” With his hands still fisted at his side, Kenny took a deep breath. “You’re right.” The man Priest had yet to meet stepped forward, offering a box of tissues. “You okay?” Priest nodded, holding a wad of tissues to his bleeding nose. “How is he?” “Sedated.” Kenny’s partner reached out his hand. “I’m Eli, by the way.” Priest shook the offered hand. He automatically started to introduce himself as Priest, but stopped, an earlier conversation with Luke came to mind. “James or Priest, whichever you prefer.” “Nice to finally meet you, James.” Eli glanced at Kenny over his shoulder. “Luke’s like a brother to Kenny.” Priest held up his hand. “I understand completely.” He met Kenny’s gaze. “I’d hate me too if I were you.” Priest returned his attention to Eli. “Have you been in to see Luke?” Eli shook his head. “He’s in ICU. They said if he stabilises, they might let us see him tomorrow.” Priest shoved his hands in his pockets. “Isn’t there someone we can talk to about this?” Normally, Priest would throw on his clerical clothing and slip into Luke’s room under the guise of being a priest, but for some reason he knew Luke wouldn’t approve. It was part of Priest’s old life as an agent, and if he had hopes of making a relationship with Luke work, he’d need to change his ways. “Is there a chapel here?” Priest asked. “First floor, just follow the signs.” It was the first time Kenny spoke to Priest in a normal tone of voice. “Thanks. That’s where I’ll be if anything changes.” Instead of waiting for the elevator, Priest took the stairs. He was grateful to find the chapel empty. Good. What he needed to say didn’t require an audience of anyone except God. It had been decades since Priest had

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stepped foot inside a church of any kind. He sat uneasily in the front pew and stared up at the crucifix hanging on the wall. Nerves started to get the best of him, but Priest concentrated on his breathing. He wiped his sweaty hands on his jeans and closed his eyes. Confession wasn’t something he believed in, at least not for him. Nothing could wipe away the sins he’d committed throughout his life. His fate was pretty much set in stone, but there was a man upstairs who didn’t deserve to pay for the bad things Priest had done in his life. “I’ll gladly stand before you on judgement day and accept full responsibility for my actions if you’ll give me the chance to be the man Luke sees when he looks at me. I don’t understand why I’ve been given such a gift, but I’m begging you for another chance.” Before he could say more, the chapel door opened and an elderly man came inside. Priest turned back to the statue of Jesus, and realised for the first time in his life why millions of people around the world drew strength from their faith. Although he was far from a saved man, Priest thought he might actually enjoy attending service with Luke at his side. Priest was still deep in thought when the elderly man sat in the pew behind him. He was about to leave when the man placed a hand on Priest’s shoulder. “Praying for a loved one?” the man asked. Priest realised it was true and nodded his head. “Me, too. My wife, Margaret.” The elderly man’s eyes filled with tears. “We’ve been married for sixty-two years, but I’m not done with her yet. I came in to see if God would grant us more time.” Priest could only imagine the pain the man must be going through. “You seem like a nice man. I’m sure God’ll listen to your prayers.” The man smiled through his pain. “I didn’t always do right by Margaret, but she was willing to give me a second chance. I’m just hoping God will do the same.” Priest stood and took the man’s frail hand in his. “I wish you all the luck in the world. I’d like to think we all deserve second chances in life.”

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**** It was another three days before Luke was strong enough to be moved to a private room. They had tried to put him in a semi-private, but Priest had stepped in and made arrangements to pay the hospital the difference. Not only would Luke be more comfortable in a room by himself, but Priest had yet to get the chance to talk to him about what had happened. “Do you need anything?” Priest asked. Luke nodded. “I need you to promise me you’re not here because of what Jeffries did.” Priest shoved the big recliner next to Luke’s bed and sat down. “I promise. I told you I’d be back as soon as I figured out a few things.” “And did you?” “Well, I haven’t caught up with Jeffries yet, but I will.” “That’s not what I was asking, and you know it.” Priest put the guardrail down before resting his head on Luke’s pillow. He brushed Luke’s cheek with his lips before moving to whisper in his ear, “I love you.” It was the first time he’d truly known what those words meant. Luke stared at him for several moments, prompting Priest to continue. “Let me introduce myself. I’m James Evans.” A broad smile appeared on Luke’s face. “It’s nice to finally meet you, James.”

**** “I can’t believe you refuse to tell me who he is,” Priest grumbled, pulling into Luke’s driveway. “It’s for your own safety. I’ve told you that like a million times.” Luke started to open the door, but Priest reached across the car and held it shut. “I’ll get it,” he growled the words. Luke rolled his eyes. It had been two weeks since his release from the hospital and Priest hadn’t let him lift a finger for himself. “I’m perfectly capable of opening a door.” www.total-e-bound.com

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“I know, but I’m trying…” “You’re trying too hard,” Luke countered. “I don’t need a caregiver. I need a partner.” Worse than Priest treating him like an invalid, the man wouldn’t even sleep with him. It was as if Priest thought Luke was suddenly made of glass or something. Priest fisted his hands. “I don’t know how to do this,” he said with such selfhatred that it broke Luke’s heart. “Stop it.” Luke reached over and ran his hand over Priest’s bald head. The action drew his attention to the healing wounds on his arm and hand. He moved his hand down to rub Priest’s earlobe between his thumb and forefinger. “You just need to ease up a bit. The most important thing to me is that you’re here.” Priest reached for Luke’s hand and threaded his fingers through Luke’s. Turning Luke’s hand over, Priest began to kiss the scars that bisected the colourful tattoos. “Let’s go inside. I think I have some making up to do.” “Can I open my own door?” Luke asked. “Hell, I’ll even let you open mine if it’s important to you.”

**** Luke woke up early Christmas morning to an empty bed. According to the clock, it was only four. “Priest?” He threw back the covers and got out of bed. Shuffling into the living room, Luke stopped at the tableau in front of him. With the Christmas tree ablaze with twinkling lights, Priest sat naked amongst the presents. “Trying to sneak a peek?” Luke asked. Priest glanced up and shook his head. “I’ve never seen so many gifts in my life. I guess it’s hard to believe I’m really here.” Luke walked across the cold hardwood floor and sat himself in Priest’s lap. He rested his head on Priest’s chest and looked up at the tree. “I’ve celebrated my fair share of Christmases, but I’ve never felt like I’d already received the best present anyone could give me.” He tipped his head back and stared up at Priest. “I’ve always known I was meant to have more than I was given, but I never thought I’d see the day when I felt I deserved it.” www.total-e-bound.com

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Priest grinned. “So you’ve finally figured out you deserve to be happy?” Luke smiled back. “Yeah. And you’re responsible for that.” Luke moved to straddle Priest’s lap. “So be honest, were you really sitting in here by yourself being all philosophical, or were you trying to figure out what that present is over there?” Priest laughed, the deep rumbling sound vibrated Luke’s chest. “I am kinda curious.” Holding on to the back of Priest’s neck, Luke leant over and grabbed the small package. “Here, open it.” “You sure?” “Yep. Maybe if you open it, I can get you back to bed.” Although the gift wasn’t as useful as the power tools wrapped and awaiting Priest’s precious hands, it was a gift that he knew would mean something to the man he loved. Priest tore off the red bow and stuck it to the top of Luke’s head before ripping at the gold paper. The box was simple, as was the present inside. Priest’s eyes lit up as he lifted the ornament. The crystal house had the corny phrase ‘Home is Where the Heart is’ etched into it with their names and the date. “It’s our first Christmas together. I thought we deserved something special to mark the occasion,” Luke explained. Priest reached over and hung the ornament on the tree. He fiddled with it for several moments until the lights hit it just right, making it truly sparkle. “It’s beautiful, but I’m surprised it says Priest and not James.” “Yeah, well, I’ve realised something. James was the name given to you by some social worker. Priest is the name you chose yourself, and that’s good enough for me.” Priest wrapped his arms around Luke. “I love you more than you’ll ever know.” “Then take me to bed.” Luke wrapped his legs around Priest’s waist. “Gladly.” Priest stood with Luke still in his arms and carried him back to the bedroom.

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As they crawled into bed, Luke could still smell their earlier lovemaking. After their discussion in the car a few days earlier, Priest had been an insatiable lover, not that Luke minded. In a surprise move, Priest handed the bottle of lube to Luke. “I think it should be a day of firsts, don’t you?” Luke’s eyes rounded. “You sure?” As far as Luke knew, Priest had never bottomed. To say Luke was nervous at the prospect of fucking Priest’s virgin ass was an understatement. “Like I said, it’s a day of firsts.” Priest moved to the centre of the bed, settling in to Luke’s usual spot. As Luke slicked his fingers, Priest kept himself busy by tracing the tattoos on Luke’s chest. “You know some of these don’t seem to fit you anymore.” “I know.” Luke rimmed Priest’s puckered hole for several moments, allowing time for the muscles to relax. “But they’re a good reminder of where I’ve been, and where I never hope to go again.” Always impatient, Priest reached down and guided the tip of Luke’s finger to his hole. “Don’t baby me.” “Yes, sir,” Luke said with a grin. He eased the tip of his middle finger into Priest’s hole, watching closely for any sign of pain. Although Luke’s first time had been many years ago, he still remembered how afraid he was. As he began moving his finger in and out of Priest’s hole, he leaned in for a kiss. “Merry Christmas.” “Mmmm, yes, I think it’s going to be.” Priest wiggled his hips. “Add another one.” “Greedy,” Luke teased, but did as instructed. He’d barely begun to stretch Priest with two fingers when Priest pulled Luke on top of him. “Enough. I need you inside me.” “But you’re not ready,” Luke protested, scissoring his fingers. “The hell I’m not. If you don’t hurry up I’m gonna shoot my load before you even get in there.” Laughing, Luke removed his fingers and coated his cock with lube. “You’re such a romantic.” www.total-e-bound.com

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He insinuated himself between Priest’s spread thighs and quickly became imprisoned by two powerful legs wrapping around him. It was hot to see Priest in this new position. Luke doubted he’d get the opportunity on a regular basis, but it was nice to know he was being given something no one else had ever received. Luke fitted the head of his cock at Priest’s hole and slowly began to push inside. “Tell me to stop if you need a minute to adjust,” he cautioned. “That’s usually my line.” Priest reached down and grabbed the cheeks of Luke’s ass. In one quick forward motion, Luke’s cock slid in to the root. “Ahh, fuck!” Priest yelled. “Too much?” Luke asked. For such a big man, Priest’s hole was definitely small and tight. He could feel the grip of Priest’s inner walls trying to milk his cock. “Not at all. It’s more than I ever dreamed it would be.” Luke pulled out until just the tip was left inside, before surging forward again. Priest began to grunt each time Luke thrust in deep. The feeling was too much and not enough at the same time. He felt overwhelmed by the pleasure Priest’s cries of approval provided. Luke’s ego took over. Soon he was fucking Priest’s ass like he’d done it a thousand times, when in fact, it was only his fourth or fifth time being in the driver’s seat. He reached behind him and tried to loosen the grip Priest’s thighs had on him. “Give me more room.” Priest unhooked his legs and drew them up towards his chest with an arm under each knee. “Do it. Oh, fuck yeah,” Priest babbled as Luke continued to plough in and out of him. The first strand of Priest’s cum seemed to erupt without warning. It splashed onto Priest’s dark skin in an erotic display. “Pretty,” Luke panted. He leant down and swiped at the seed with his tongue. Priest’s unique flavour exploded on Luke’s tongue, pushing him towards the edge. “I’m not going to last,” he warned. Priest didn’t answer, still caught up in his own climax. Luke knew it was safe to let go, so he buried himself as deep as he could go and allowed the pleasure to

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wash over him. He had no idea how many times his body jerked as it emptied every ounce of his cum inside Priest. Luke collapsed on Priest’s chest as he fought for a breath he feared would never come again. Priest used his strong hands to knead Luke’s back, massaging the tight muscles as he continued to fight for air. “Best Christmas ever,” Priest panted.

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Epilogue

With Priest in DC, taking care of handing over his personal files, Luke took the time to stop by and see his secret friend. “Deacon?” he called, entering the store. “Be out in a minute,” Deacon McConnell answered from his workshop in the back. Luke took the time to look around at Deacon’s latest creations. He’d already talked to Priest about having a bed made for the new house they were planning to have built as soon as the ground thawed enough to pour the foundation. Deacon entered the showroom with a smile. “Look what the cat dragged in.” “Good to see you, too.” Luke shook Deacon’s hand. “I would’ve come by earlier, but you’re the one who insists I can’t tell Priest about you.” “In time.” Deacon led Luke to two willow chairs made by his own hands. “How much time? He’s like a dog with a bone. He can’t stand the thought of me knowing something he doesn’t.” In truth, Luke kind of enjoyed tormenting Priest. “He should be done with his initial training in about two weeks, probably sooner. Unlike most of the handlers, Priest is already accustomed to the procedures we follow.” Two weeks. What was he supposed to do without Priest for that long? “I’m glad I’ve got work to keep me busy.” “So that’s going okay, no more meltdowns on the job?” Deacon asked. “Everything’s great. I haven’t had a single nightmare in nearly a month. Although the guys at the station still aren’t sure what to think of Priest, they know he’s responsible for my turnaround. Aaron, one of the EMTs I work with, even asked if Priest had a brother.” Deacon nodded his head in understanding. “I take it that’s the kid you told me about with PTSD?” “Yeah. He’s been in therapy several times a week, but I don’t think it’s helping much. His mood goes to shit at least once a week. I’ve learned to just keep my mouth www.total-e-bound.com

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shut unless he initiates conversation. Funny thing is, when he first started at the station, he seemed better than he is now. You’d think it would be the opposite.” “Maybe there’s something else going on in his personal life that has him on edge,” Deacon suggested. Luke shook his head. “Not possible. I swear the guy does nothing but works and sleeps. Aaron takes every shift that’s offered, sometimes working three and four days at a stretch. I don’t know how the hell he does it. After twenty-four hours I’m ready to get the hell away from those people for a while.” “Well, it sounds to me like there’s something going on with him. Maybe you should bring him by. It might help him to talk to someone else who’s seen some terrible things.” Luke didn’t know Deacon’s history or how he came to head up one of the most powerful and secretive agencies in the world. “I might do that.”

**** Lying to Luke wasn’t cool, but Priest also knew his partner wanted to forget the whole experience with Jeffries. As a matter-of-fact, Luke had made Priest promise not to mention Jeffries’ name until the man was no longer a threat. He’d had to bend the truth to get away, but Priest had finally received the lead he’d been waiting for. Wiping blood off his knife, Priest stared down at what was left of Jeffries with a satisfied smile. He’d happily heard his last confession. With the past soon to be buried in an unmarked grave, Priest and Luke could get on with the rest of their lives. Priest still had six more days of training to do in DC. But, with Jeffries taken care of, Priest no longer had to worry about leaving the man he loved from time to time. He’d been promised a new career where he could work from home. Priest prayed that was the case. Just because he could now leave Luke for short stretches at a time didn’t mean he wanted to. It quickly became apparent that Luke was like sunshine. He brightened Priest’s world, warmed his heart and was often too damn hot for his own good. www.total-e-bound.com

Coming Soon from Total-E-Bound Publishing:

A Lesson Learned Carol Lynne Released 19th December 2011

Excerpt Chapter One

Dane Jefferson stared at the sheet of paper in front of him and chewed the skin around his thumbnail. For two hours he’d contemplated his actions and wasn’t any closer to reaching a decision. Giving up, he reached for the phone. Although he was glad his best friend had finally agreed to move in with Chet, Dane missed having Bobby in the house. “Hey,” Bobby answered. “Busy?” Dane asked. “Just studying, but I could use a break. What’s up?” “Well, you know I need more hours of field experience…” Dane trailed off. “Yeah.” “How wrong would it be if I sponsored something on my own but didn’t tell Professor Sofokleous the grant was coming from me?” “What’re you up to, Dane?” Bobby asked, his voice thick with suspicion. “I’m sitting here with a grant request form in my hands from Professor Sofokleous.” “He sent that to you?” “No, he sent it to the James D Barrett Preservation and Historical Research Institute.” “So why do you have it?” Bobby asked. www.total-e-bound.com

“Because James Barrett was my fourth great-grandfather on my mother’s side. It’s because of him that I became interested in anthropology in the first place. After I found and read Professor Sofokleous’ book, I knew I had to study under him. Anyway, Mom gave me the request at Thanksgiving. She said it was something I’d be better suited to decide.” “So what’s your dilemma?” “Professor Sofokleous doesn’t know I’m connected to the institute, and since I want to be the one to accompany him on the research project, I’d probably have to tell him. But will that make him even more uncomfortable around me than he already is?” Dane sighed. “I don’t know what to do.” “How does the grant application look? Is it something you would approve even if you didn’t want to sleep with him?” “I honestly don’t know. He’s not asking for much money, but he wants to stay at Barrett House, something to do with getting answers to an unsolved mystery.” Although letting visiting researchers stay at the house wasn’t unheard of, Dane was uneasy. What mystery could possibly surround Barrett House? His ancestors had never owned slaves, so it had to be something involving Native Americans, Professor Sofokleous’ area of study. “Whatever you do, promise you’ll be honest with him. You had a front row seat to the shit I stirred up with Chet when I tried to keep the truth from him.” “Yeah,” Dane agreed. “But only if I approve the grant.” He tried to imagine spending three weeks alone with Magnus Sofokleous. Shit. What if Magnus wanted to take someone else to assist him? “Would I be a complete loser if I insist he takes me with him as a condition of getting the grant?” “Ummm…yes, affirmative on that.” Bobby chuckled. “Just go in and tell him the truth. If you want to go with him, state your case. He’s an intelligent man. Surely he’ll understand why you’re interested.” Dane pushed his glasses up to rest on his short blond hair before rubbing his eyes. “Even though I know you’re right, I can’t help but think he’ll turn me down. Lately it seems like he can’t even be in the same room with me for more than a few minutes. I don’t really see him voluntarily spending three weeks alone with me.” “You may be right, but you’ll drive yourself crazy over this until you man up and ask.” www.total-e-bound.com

Dane glanced at the clock. Did he dare bother Professor Sofokleous at home? He could always wait until Monday, but with winter break only seven days away, Magnus would probably appreciate the extra weekend to prepare for the trip down south. “Okay, I’ll talk to him.” “Good luck.” “Thanks. I’ll need it, both with Professor Sofokleous and with my mother. She has a thing about having us all home for Christmas.” “If she knows you like I do, she’ll understand.” Dane snorted. “You don’t know my mother. She’s the dictator of the family.” “Then you just have to ask yourself what’s more important, making her mad or easing yourself into Magnus’ bed.” “No brainer there.” Dane smiled to himself. “Thanks.” “No problem. I told you when I moved out I’d always be here for you.” “I know. I just wasn’t sure you really meant it. Other people have said stuff like that and then wandered away never to be heard from again.” “I’m not those people,” Bobby said. “Yeah, I get that. I’ll call you tomorrow, after I’ve had a chance to talk to Magnus.” Dane’s stomach churned at the idea of visiting Magnus at his home. “I’ll be here.” After Bobby hung up, Dane carried the grant application into the bedroom with him. After changing his clothes, Dane called the number listed on the contact section of the application. “Yes,” Magnus answered, his voice gruffer than usual. “Hi, Professor, it’s Dane Jefferson. Sorry to bother you at home, but I have something I need to talk to you about. I was wondering if I could drop by your house for a few minutes.” “It’s not really a good time.” Dane took a deep breath. It was precisely how he’d envisioned the phone call going. Magnus was trying to brush him off like he always did. “It’s about the grant you applied for.” “Excuse me?” www.total-e-bound.com

Dane’s heart skipped a beat when he heard a male voice in the background. Of course Magnus would be entertaining, it was Friday night. “If you have company, I can talk to you about the grant on Monday,” he offered. “My guest isn’t important, but I fail to see how you could know anything about the grant request I submitted.” “Yes, well, that’s one of the things I wanted to discuss with you.” Dane could have told Magnus his connection to the Institute over the phone, but he knew it would be harder for his professor to turn him down in person. “Give me thirty minutes to tie up loose ends,” Magnus offered. “Yes, sir,” Dane said automatically. A noise came from deep in Magnus’ throat, but Dane couldn’t tell what it meant. Was the man already irritated with him? “I really am sorry for bothering you when you’re busy.” “The grant’s what’s important, nothing more.” “I guess I’ll see you in thirty minutes then.” Magnus hung up without saying anything further. Dane shoved the phone into the pocket of his jeans, wondering if he’d ever be able to get a full conversation out of his professor.

**** “Session over. Time for you to go,” Magnus told the submissive he’d been training. Darrell, the thirty-two-year old who was new to the lifestyle, stared at Magnus’ obvious erection. “Really?” Magnus didn’t bother to tell Darrell the state of his cock had nothing to do with him. It was Dane’s use of ‘sir’ that had caused an immediate reaction in Magnus’ body. Although Magnus had asked his teaching assistant to stop calling him sir on several occasions, Dane continued to address him as such. Magnus seriously doubted Dane was into the lifestyle, so more than likely the younger man had been raised in a southern household. When Darrell continued to stare up at him without getting out of bed, Magnus began to lose his temper. “Do I need to repeat myself, boy?”

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With a dramatic sigh, Darrell swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood. Magnus received a measure of satisfaction by looking at Darrell’s bright red ass. If he’d had the time, he would have given Darrell a few more welts to remind him that insubordination wasn’t tolerated. Instead, Magnus headed for the bathroom. “Let yourself out.” “Yes, sir,” Darrell said, reaching for his suit pants. It didn’t surprise Magnus that Darrell’s use of sir didn’t stir him in the slightest. It had become harder and harder to find a sub he actually yearned to dominate. An image of Dane naked and bent over his desk came to mind as Magnus stepped into the shower. Fuck. Magnus reached down and wrapped his hand around his cock. He couldn’t even be in the same room with Dane for more than five minutes without the urge to order the man to his knees. Magnus released his cock. He hated that thoughts of Dane could make his control slip. It was the primary reason he’d given Dane the job as his teaching assistant. Playing around with college men at the club was one thing, but he had a strict rule about not fucking students he taught. When he’d discovered Dane’s intention to remain at the college to obtain his postgraduate degree, Magnus knew he had to put some walls into place. Although seeing Dane on a daily basis had become almost unbearable, in his mind Dane was off-limits. Magnus finished washing up, before turning off the water. He opened the glass door and was surprised to find Darrell standing in the doorway. The anger that had been building towards himself was unleashed on the accountant. “I told you to get out,” he growled. “I know, but we usually set another time before I leave,” Darrell explained. In that moment, Magnus was able to see that Darrell had just been a poor substitute for the man he really wanted. “I think this arrangement has run its course. I’m sure you won’t have a problem finding someone else to take up your training.” “But…I thought we had something special.” Naked, Magnus took a step forward, towering over Darrell. “Your mistake. I told you upfront I don’t get emotionally involved. Yes or no?” Darrell looked down at the tiled floor. “Sure, but…” www.total-e-bound.com

“Nope. Stop right there. I’m a man who means what he says.” Magnus wasn’t a completely heartless ass. “Sorry I let it go on between us as long as it did. I should’ve seen it sooner.” Darrell turned and walked out of the room, leaving Magnus to wonder why he bothered having sex at all. Although he enjoyed the physical act, the drama most men brought to the bedroom wasn’t worth it. No matter how hard he tried, he would never understand why someone would willingly weaken themselves by allowing their emotions to lead them around by the nose. As a boy, he’d witnessed his father push and order his mother around in the name of love, stupid woman. She should have shoved a knife in her husband’s gut and rid herself of the burden. Instead, she’d taken her heartache out on Magnus. Ninety per cent of the time, Magnus’ father would disappear for a few days after a big fight, leaving a bitter and angry wife behind. Once Magnus was old enough to fend for himself it hadn’t been nearly as bad, but memories of being so hungry he’d often resort to eating the dog’s food continued to haunt him. By the time he was a teenager, he’d become an expert at living life without emotional entanglements. After the front door slammed shut, signalling Darrell’s departure, Magnus crossed the room to his dresser. He started to reach for a clean pair of jeans but stopped and opened his closet instead. Magnus selected a crisp, freshly starched white dress shirt and pair of olive green cotton pants and tossed them onto the bed. It was important to keep their professional relationship intact. Magnus dressed quickly before running a brush through his drying hair. Curls had begun to form, signalling it was time for a cut. He much preferred the sleek black waves to the curls that reminded himself of the boy in the mirror so long ago. By the time the doorbell rang, Magnus had pulled himself together. He shut the door to the bedroom and took a quick glance around the living room. Thankfully, his sessions with Darrell didn’t include wining and dining the man, so the room was still in pristine order. With his small wire-rimmed reading glasses in place, Magnus opened the door. “Come in, Dane.” www.total-e-bound.com

Dane entered the house, his battered leather messenger bag slung over his shoulder. “Thanks. Sorry for interrupting your evening.” Magnus pointed Dane towards the sofa as he took a seat in his large leather recliner. “I’ve already told you, you didn’t interrupt anything important. Now, what is this about the grant application I submitted?” Dane set his bag on the floor beside his foot and removed a thin red folder. He fingered the pages inside before clearing his throat. It was clear to Magnus the man was nervous. “My mother passed your application on to me. She usually deals with this sort of thing, but she recognised your name and thought it would be best for me to handle it,” Dane began. “I don’t understand. Does your mother work for the Institute?” “Yes and no. You see, James D Barrett was my fourth great-grandfather on my mother’s side. Mother, along with my two uncles, is on the board of directors at the Institute.” Magnus stared at Dane. He’d known Dane came from a wealthy family, but he had no idea his teaching assistant was connected to the Barrett fortune. “I didn’t realise that.” Dane set the folder on the coffee table. “I have a couple of questions about the application before I can approve it.” “Okay.” Magnus scooted to the edge of the chair and rested his forearms on his knees. “Well, my question is two-fold, really. First, I’d like to know what you’d be looking for at Barrett House? Second, would it be possible for me to assist you in your research? I need the field hours, and, as you can imagine, this is something I have a vested interest in.” Magnus took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes before resettling them. It was a risk to tell Dane what he’d already discovered, but it might prove an even greater risk to work alongside Dane in the field. “Do my answers determine whether or not I receive the grant?” Dane sat up straighter on the couch. “I really want to assist you on this, Professor, but I’m not so self-centred that I would turn the grant down because you don’t want me there.” Magnus wondered what Dane would say if he knew how much he was wanted, but it was too dangerous. “I can answer part of the first question.” Magnus stood and retrieved a box from his floor safe, carefully setting it on the table beside the red folder. He lifted the lid to reveal a ceremonial necklace. “I came across this last summer while visiting an elderly MOWA Choctaw woman in Alabama. She agreed to give it to me with the promise that it never be sold and will eventually be put on display for all to enjoy.” www.total-e-bound.com

Dane leaned closer. Shaking his head as he examined the beadwork, it was obvious he’d studied enough Native American history to identify the problem. “Have you had this authenticated?” Magnus knelt on the floor beside the coffee table. “The beads are over a hundred years old, but the secret of who strung them together remains a mystery.” Magnus never tired of studying the ceremonial necklace. Built in intricate rows of beadwork, four Native American nations were represented, something Magnus had never before heard of. He glanced up at Dane. “According to the woman, the piece had been handed down through her family for generations. Unfortunately, the story behind it was lost except for a few details.” “Which are?” Dane asked, making eye contact. Magnus took a deep breath. “The necklace came from the sole survivor of a tribe living on the Barrett plantation.” “Do you believe her?” “I’ve got no reason not to. Forgive me, but it’s always seemed strange to me that your family would fund a Native American history institute when, as far as my research goes, you’re family’s about as white as they come.” “Mother believes it’s because James Barrett befriended a local tribe and was furious when the government drove them out of Louisiana. According to her, James promised them a piece of their history would always remain in the bayou.” Magnus nodded. “I believe they left more that has yet to be discovered.” Dane looked at the necklace again. “Okay, I agree it’s something that should be explored further. I’ll see that the grant is approved.” Dane picked up the folder and put it away. “Umm…about the other thing…” “I’ll think about it,” Magnus answered, cutting Dane off before he could continue. Dane stood and shouldered his bag. “There are areas of the plantation that aren’t open to anyone but family members.” He met Magnus’ gaze. “It would be in your best interest to have me along.” Magnus narrowed his eyes. Although Dane was clearly challenging him, Magnus found it enlightening. Perhaps Dane wasn’t the pushover Magnus had always assumed him to be. “Like I told you, I’ll think about it.” www.total-e-bound.com

“Okay. My Uncle Fallon lives in Morgan City. I’ll call him, and have him prepare the Barrett House for your arrival. The Institute will be closed to the public from December 18 to January 9th, but there will still be maintenance workers there on and off during that period.” Magnus walked Dane to the door. “Thanks for the grant,” he felt the need to say. Dane stepped outside into the bitter cold evening. “I envy you,” he mumbled. “Sure would be nice to get a break from this weather for a few weeks.” “Don’t try so hard, kid,” Magnus growled. “I’ll give you my answer on Monday.” Magnus watched Dane until he made it to his sleek Mercedes sports car. The damn thing probably cost more than Magnus’ house. Magnus shut the door and locked it before grabbing a beer out of the refrigerator. It was going to be a long weekend.

Pre-order your copy here: http://www.total-e-bound.com/comingsoon.asp

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About the Author An avid reader for years, one day Carol Lynne decided to write her own brand of erotic romance. Carol juggles between being a full-time mother and a full-time writer. These days, you can usually find Carol either cleaning jelly out of the carpet or nestled in her favourite chair writing steamy love scenes. Email: [email protected]

by Carol Lynne Karaoke at the Tumbleweed Joey’s First Time Between Two Lovers Corporate Passion Sunset Ridge Legend Anthology: Healing Doctor Ryan Campus Cravings: Coach Campus Cravings: Side-Lined Campus Cravings: Sacking the Quarterback Campus Cravings: Off-Season Campus Cravings: Forbidden Freshman Campus Cravings: Broken Pottery Campus Cravings: In Bear’s Bed Campus Cravings: Office Advances Campus Cravings: A Biker’s Vow Campus Cravings: Hershie’s Kiss Campus Cravings: Theron’s Return Campus Cravings: Live for Today Good Time Boys: Sonny’s Salvation Good-time Boys: Garron’s Gift Good-time Boys: Rawley’s Redemption Good-time Boys: Twin Temptations Cattle Valley: All Play & No Work Cattle Valley: Cattle Valley Mistletoe Cattle Valley: Sweet Topping Cattle Valley: Rough Ride Cattle Valley: Physical Therapy Cattle Valley: Out of the Shadow Cattle Valley: Bad Boy Cowboy Cattle Valley: The Sound of White Cattle Valley: Gone Surfin’ Cattle Valley: The Last Bouquet Cattle Valley: Eye of the Beholder Cattle Valley: Cattle Valley Days www.total-e-bound.com

Cattle Valley: Bent-Not Broken Cattle Valley: Arm Candy Cattle Valley: Recipe for Love Cattle Valley: Firehouse Heat Cattle Valley: Neil’s Guardian Angel Cattle Valley: Scarred Cattle Valley: Making the Grade Cattle Valley: To Service and Protect Cattle Valley: The O’Brien Way Cattle Valley: Ghost from the Past Cattle Valley: Hawk’s Landing Cattle Valley: Shooting Star Poker Night: Texas Hold Em Poker Night: Slow-Play Poker Night: Different Suits Poker Night: Full House Men in Love: Reunion Bodyguards in Love: Brier’s Bargain Bodyguards in Love: Seb’s Surrender Bodyguards in Love: I Love Rock N Roll Bodyguards in Love: Taming Black Dog Four Bodyguards in Love: Seducing the Sheik Bodyguards in Love: To Bed a King Neo’s Realm: Liquid Crimson Neo’s Realm: Blood Trinity Neo’s Realm: Crimson Moon Seasons of Love: Spring Seasons of Love: Summer Seasons of Love: Fall

Also by Carol Lynne and T.A Chase Dracul’s Revenge: Dracul’s Blood Dracul’s Revenge: Anarchy in Blood The Haunting of St Xavier

Carol loves to hear from readers. You can find her contact information, website and author biography at http://www.total-e-bound.com.

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