Packing Heat

PACKING HEAT BOOK SIX IN THE ACTION! SERIES G.A. HAUSER

PACKING HEAT Copyright © G.A. Hauser, 2010 Cover art by Stephanie Vaughan ISBN Trade paperback: 978-1451-5997-9-4 The G.A. Hauser Collection

This is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or business establishments, events or locales is coincidental. All Rights Are Reserved. No part of this may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. WARNING This book contains material that maybe offensive to some: graphic language, homosexual relations, adult situations. Please store your books carefully where they cannot be accessed by underage readers. First G.A. Hauser Publication: May 2010

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Chapter One “Alexander, stop eating all the cookies.” “Why? You won’t eat them.” “They’re for the party.” Mark straightened the centerpiece arrangement of poinsettias. “Who’s coming?” Alex brushed the chocolate chip cookie crumbs off his hands. “Everyone. Did you invite Oliver? His dad and Billy are coming.” “Of course.” Alex’s eyes lit up. “Behave.” Mark wagged his finger at him. “That’s debatable.” Steve entered the room wearing an apron depicting a cartoon of a cop eating a doughnut, to protect his black slacks and cream-colored dress shirt. “The caterer is almost done setting up.” “Good.” Mark pecked him on the lips. “You look edible.” “Later. Don’t get me started, Richfield.” Alex laughed. Steve asked Alex, “Is Oliver coming?” “Yup.” Alex stole another cookie from a platter filled with a variety of sweets. “You’ll ruin your appetite for dinner.” Mark positioned himself between his son and the dessert table. Alex popped the whole cookie in his mouth, smiling as he chewed. A man poked his head into the room from the kitchen. “Everything’s ready for the party, Mr. Miller.” “Thanks, Gordon.” Steve untied the apron and folded it over his arm. “The servers should be here any moment.” Mark lost himself in a daydream as Steve and the caterer disappeared into the kitchen. He remembered holidays when he was a young boy. They were not

G.A. Hauser joyous. His parents argued, his father got drunk and abusive, and inevitably he was sent to his room for defending his mother. “Dad?” Mark regained his focus and met his son’s green eyes. “Yes, love?” He cupped Alex’s cheek. “My past Christmases sucked too.” At Alex’s perceptiveness, Mark smiled. “Yes. I could imagine. Your stepfather liked to tip a few back as well.” “No kidding.” Alex breathed out a loud exhale. “The house was a zoo with my twin brothers screaming and fighting over every gift. I’m so glad I found you and Steve.” Alex crushed Mark in an embrace. Closing his eyes, Mark held him tight, rocking him. “I’m glad you found us as well. I love you, babe.” “Mm. The smell of that Dangereux Cologne is making me horny.” Alex inhaled him. “There’s my men.” Steve joined them and turned it into a group hug. “Grrr.” He nestled into Mark’s neck through his long hair. “Sniff him, Steve. Yum!” “I always sniff him.” Steve made snuffling noises around Mark’s ear. “Oh! And you don’t want me to get you going!” Mark wriggled against Steve. “Behave!” Alex teased, giving Mark and Steve the same wag of a finger he’d gotten a moment earlier. “You rascal.” Steve made a move to grab Alex and Alex roared with laughter and raced out of the room, Steve in hot pursuit. “Go get him, copper!” Mark called after them, smiling. His mobile ringtone sounded. Mark removed it from his pocket and read the number. “Hello, Jackie.” “Hi, gorgeous. Adam and I are about to leave the house. Anything you need?” “Absolutely nothing. And no gifts.” “Yeah, right.” Mark grinned, he’d gotten everyone a present too. Rules shmules. “We have everything we need. Honest, Jackie. We just need you and Adam. Where would the holidays be without the four of us?” Mark remembered their fourway wedding vows. Secret, romantic, and incredible. How lucky can a man be to have three wonderful men to love and take care of him? “You’re spending 2

Packing Heat the night, correct?” “That’s the plan.” “Good. Can’t wait, Jackie. Give Adam my kisses until I can give them to him myself.” “Absolutely. See you soon.” “Bye, love.” Mark disconnected the call and looked for Steve and Alex. They were seated on the sofa staring at the Christmas tree. Steve patted the spot beside him, opposite Alex. Mark curled on the cushion next to him. “Nice touch having the Jewish Star on the top of the tree, Dad.” Alex stuck his tongue into his cheek. “I thought so. You can’t forget your roots, Alexander.” “Nope. I won’t.” Steve kissed Mark’s cheek. “What’s your mom and Harry doing for the holiday?” “Mum went with Harry to London to visit Harry’s children.” Mark slumped down as the sparkling twinkle lights lulled him to a state of tranquility. “We should be in London,” Alex said. “Perhaps next year. It is lovely. Regent Street is glorious with hanging lights. Last I remember, they were the richest shade of blue with white snowflakes, like a star-filled sky.” “Sounds romantic.” Steve leaned his head against Mark’s. “It is. It’s brilliant.” “I want to go.” Alex put his hand on Steve’s thigh and Steve clasped his over it. “We will. Promise.” Mark checked his watch. “Jackie and Adam will be here soon. I asked them to come a bit early.” “Good. That food smells nice and I’m starving.” Steve rested his head on the back of the couch. “You should have had a cookie,” Alex said, grinning. “I don’t want a cookie. I want food,” Steve said, “Actually, I want booze.” When he made a move to stand, both Alex and Mark complained and held him down. “I should know better than to get trapped by two Richfield ‘clones’.” “We’re not clones.” Mark nestled back against Steve’s shoulder. “I wish. I’d love to be nineteen again.” “Stop acting old.” 3

G.A. Hauser “I bought you Botox for Christmas,” Alex teased. Steve nudged him with his elbow. “Good.” Mark closed his eyes. “Are you going to sleep?” Alex asked. “I could. I don’t know why I’m so tired.” “You spent all day decorating the house.” “I did outside,” Steve said. “You’re my hero.” Mark held onto Steve’s arm, feeling his muscular biceps through his shirt. “I really need a beer.” “Go.” Mark sat back to free Steve. “Want one?” He stood and faced them. “Yes, please!” Alex replied. Steve tilted his head at Alex skeptically. “Just get him one. He and Oliver will be sneaking booze all night anyway.” Mark waved Steve on. “You better not get drunk,” Steve told Alex before he left the room. “I won’t.” The minute Steve was gone, Alex leaned over to Mark to whisper, “What did you get him?” Mark looked back at the doorway first. “A new watch.” “Nice!” “Rolex submariner. It’s just his style.” “I know what he got you,” Alex taunted. “Don’t tell me. I want it to be a surprise.” Mark eyed the assortment of wrapped packages under the tree. “Heh, heh,” Alex chuckled mischievously. “Don’t.” Mark sat back. “What did you guys get me?” Steve returned, holding three beers, one between his elbow and his body. He handed two off and replied, “You can’t know what we got you until Christmas morning. The servers are here, Mark. I showed them into the kitchen.” “I didn’t even hear the door.” 4

Packing Heat “I told Gordon to ask them to come through the garage directly to the kitchen.” “Oh.” Steve made room between them again, wriggling in. “Richfield bookends. Love it.” He swigged his beer from the bottle. Mark held his up for a tap. “Cheers.” Three beer bottles met over Steve’s lap. “Cheers,” Alex and Steve echoed. “What did you buy Oliver?” Mark zoned off at the sparkling lights as they hypnotized him. He loved the smell of pine in the air mixed with baking cookies and hearty food. “A new cell phone.” Alex appeared to be lost on the tree as well, the bottle neck resting on his bottom lip. “Very nice.” Mark closed his eyes again. “I should have napped.” “You can. Go rest.” Steve put his arm around Mark’s shoulders. “No. Jackie and Adam will be here.” “They won’t mind.” “No. I’m okay snuggling with you.” Mark stuck his beer between his thighs to keep it upright. “Tell me again who you guys ended up inviting.” Alex gulped the beer down. Steve replied, “Everyone. Tanner, Josh, Jeff, Mickey…” Mark drifted into a hazy state between sleep and awareness. He remembered something. It felt like a lifetime ago, but it was his life. The ghosts of his past. Mark graduated from Stanford University with honors, and right from school he was accepted to work for a topnotch architecture firm. Though his resume was flawless including his design of the stately office building, The Collin’s Tower; seventy floors of perfection, it didn’t seem to matter. People became hostile towards him. At first he shrugged it off as jealousy. But soon the office became a battleground. He dreaded coming in, hearing whispers behind his back, seeing glares from men who were polite to him to his face, but quickly stabbed him in the back. As the rumor mill made its way to his own ears, Mark wondered what he had done to deserve the gay labeling. He kept to himself, tried to be friendly, and worked hard. It didn’t help. He was branded the fag who was a lawsuit about to happen. 5

G.A. Hauser I push myself on people? Where the hell did they come up with that one? Christ. I push people off of me constantly. And I was dating a woman at the time. Hello? His original immediate supervisor, Louis Tate, had left Mark alone to do his work. He and Louis never had a problem. When Louis died of a stroke and Mark began working for his replacement, Carla Stewart, Mark’s mental state took a turn for the worse. Louis was a compassionate old man who left Mark to do his blueprint scanning in peace. Louis knew he was talented and was happy to have Mark working under him. He didn’t have to watch over his shoulder. Mark knew more about designing than he did. Carla was another story. She hovered over him. Touched him. Made sexual innuendos around him. Mark couldn’t believe his life had changed so drastically. From a rich, carefree playboy living at his parents’ manor, to a sexually harassed office drone, fighting traffic, and hiding his true sexual nature with a fake macho act that obviously fooled no one. It didn’t help his reputation that he and Jack were housemates at the time. And their home life had suffered. They were both tired constantly. Jack, the young intern lawyer, was struggling to make his mark on a prestigious law firm. Not to mention Jack had just come out of the closet publically after they graduated college. The time he and Jack shared wasn’t like it should be. They were used to laughing, playing, bouncing off the walls in games of tag-you’re-gonna-git-it. Not now. Even the workout routines they did together grew infrequent. Jack was doing his own thing, keeping up his He-man bulk, while Mark barely had the time or the energy to run. Life sucked as far as Mark was concerned. He missed the freedom of being a single man and able to cock-tease Jack Larsen to distraction. Mark was dating Sharon Tice and hiding his sexuality—though everyone seemed to know he was gay. This left one bastion of sanity in his life. His career. But now expectations for working to get his mind off his problems had changed. Suddenly he had a lousy job as well as a craving for cock and being stuck without it while resisting the unbelievably willing Jack Charles Larsen. Mark knew his mental state was being tested and had to suck down happy pills and sit with his shrink weekly. Things had to change or he would implode. “Mark?” Blinking at Steve who was staring at him in concern, Mark became aware. 6

Packing Heat “You okay, sweetie?” Seeing both Mark and Alex’s worried glances, Mark hadn’t even realized he’d dazed off into his own world. “Yes. “Will you go lie down?” Steve stood and reached out for Mark to haul him to his feet. “Adam and Jack will be here soon. I can’t.” “Go lie down, Dad. You look like shit.” “Why, thank you, Alexander. I can always count on you for a boost to my ego.” “Go.” Steve took Mark’s beer and set it on the table. Alex quickly took possession of it. Mark was physically spun around, facing the staircase, and marched towards it. “Perhaps I just need a cup of coffee.” “I’ll make sure there’s a fresh pot when you come down. Scoot.” Steve’s grip on his ass made his cock swell, but he ignored the urge to entice Steve into sex and trod upstairs. The moment he was horizontal, Mark continued to remember bad times past. Carla made him stay late every night. She waited until he was packing up to go home to give him something he just had to get done. “Sorry, I forgot.” Mark would grumble and sit back down as she stood behind him to read the computer screen over his shoulder, leaning against him. When her hand ran through his long hair he had enough. He moved away from her. “Ms. Stewart, please stop.” “You work so hard, Mark, I just thought you could use a little reward.” “As long as it’s money.” He made more space between them. Carla sat on his desk so he could see into her skirt if he chose to look. He chose not to. “I’m having a hard time resisting you.” She reached out to touch him again. “Please, resist me. I’m seeing someone.” She laughed seductively. “There’s no wedding ring on your finger yet.” Mark couldn’t handle it. “Look, Ms. Stewart...” He rubbed his eyes in frustration. “Carla, please.” She purred and leaned over to him again. “What will it take to get you in my bed?” 7

G.A. Hauser “Stop.” He intercepted her hand as it made for his hair. He stood and backed up. “Look, I’m gay, all right?” Mark had no idea why he said it, but he wanted it to be the magic words to keep her away. Obviously telling her he was dating someone didn’t cut it. At first she seemed to assuming it was a joke, maybe a cruel way to get her to stop. He figured she was thinking about him dating a woman so he added softly, “I live with a man.” She abruptly left the room. From that moment on, life at the office had changed. Nasty things started to occur. Someone had rigged his screen saver to run across his computer reading, ‘I’m Gay’. He couldn’t get rid of the thing and was mortified to ask someone to help. In the men’s room his name and phone number was pinned up in each stall asking if someone wanted their cock sucked to call him. In his top drawer, very graphic, gay porno magazines appeared. Was Carla afraid to fire him? And what would she fire him for? His work was flawless. Was she so embarrassed by the rejection she wanted him to quit? As the abuse grew worse, Mark closed his office door and circled want ads. Out of fear he would be exposed, he asked Sharon Tice to marry him. Another colossal life-mistake. Mark tossed on the bed. Sleep? Not likely. What was it about the holidays that brought back nightmarish memories? This was the time for joy and peace, right? Ha. Hardly. Never for me. The door to his room began to open. Mark expected Steve. When Jack glanced into the dimness, Mark smiled in delight. “Hi, Jackie-blue.” “Hey, babe. You feel okay? Steve sent me up to check on you.” “Better now.” Mark reached out to him. Jack sat on the bed and caressed Mark’s chest. “He said you were tired. Do you want me to let you nap?” “I can’t sleep.” “Want to come down? Adam brought some very expensive cognac to crack open.” “In a minute. Come here.” Mark coaxed Jack to lie beside him, face to face. 8

Packing Heat “Talk to me.” Jack caressed Mark’s cheek. “I know the holidays are always hard on you.” “It’s amazing how well you know me.” “I’ve known you for twenty years and we lived together for most of that time.” Jack kissed his neck and earlobe. Mark leaned back see into his blue eyes. No one protected him like this man did. He was his personal pit bull, his security guard, his knight in shining armor. “Which demon is bugging you?” Jack flicked Mark’s long hair behind his shoulder. “Come on.” Dropping to his back on the bed, Mark stared at the ceiling. “I have no idea why, but I’m thinking about the time I was working at the architecture firm, before I took the job at Parsons and Company.” “Why? Why are you torturing yourself?” “I must like it.” “I told you then we should have taken them to court. You had so much proof of harassment, you would have gotten a huge settlement.” Mark laughed in a cough. “Bring all that up? Whilst I was dating Ms. Tice? Surely you jest.” “Then forget it. You can’t go back and change a thing in your past. Stop trying.” “Give us a hug.” Jack snaked his arm around Mark and drew him close. On contact Mark sizzled with excitement. “Damn, I love that cologne. I’d buy it but if I smell you all day, I won’t get any work done I’d be so horny.” “Jackie, why do I have so many regrets?” Mark rested his chin on Jack’s shoulder. “I don’t know. You have so much, it really doesn’t make sense. Most people would be thankful in your position.” “Yes. Thankful.” Mark pressed his lips against Jack’s cheek. “You have three devoted men in your life, a great son, two fabulous careers…what more does a man need?” “Indeed. I am greedy.” “Do you want more than you have?” “I want peace in my head. It’s the one thing I can’t get and I don’t know 9

G.A. Hauser why.” Mark leaned back to catch Jack’s eyes again. “You dwell on shit. Let it go.” “It seems it would be easy. But it’s impossible for me to do.” Jack ran his hand over Mark’s crotch. Mark assumed he was checking for a hard-on. “Steve said you and Adam will be spending the night.” “We will. I want to get drunk and not worry about the drive home.” “Is that all?” Mark wriggled into Jack’s palm. “Not all. Love our four-ways.” Mark’s cock pulsated against Jack’s fingers. It made Jack chuckle. “I’ll take that as an agreement.” A light knock sounded at the door. Mark looked over Jack’s shoulder to see Steve. “Yes!” Steve grinned and rushed over. “Starting early?” “I’m tempted.” Jack squeezed Mark’s cock firmly. “He couldn’t sleep. He was lying here stewing on ghosts of problems past.” “Sounds like the ultimate Christmas Carol prank. But you’re not Scrooge by any stretch of the imagination.” Steve found Mark’s hand and used it to rub his own groin hungrily. “Who’s here, love?” Mark asked, getting aroused now that both his alpha dogs were starting to circle. “Angel, Billy, Oliver, and of course, Mr. Adam Lewis. He sent me up here to find you. We had a wager Jack would be sucking your big cock.” “How much did you lose?” Jack smiled. “Fifty bucks.” “You bet we would be?” Mark blinked. “Yeah. Because I would be. I will be.” Steve became more assertive with his friction against Mark’s palm. “Fuck. Now I need to come. Jesus, Richfield.” “I’m just lying here. What did I do?” “Jack’s stroking your dick.” Steve pointed. “That’s enough.” Making a move to get off the bed, Jack said, “Okay. We have all night. We can’t hide up here when the party is down there.” Steve groaned as if he were in pain. Mark sat up and kissed Steve’s zipper flap. “Poor baby.” He laughed. “Wow. Full woodie. Steven, you’re insatiable.” 10

Packing Heat Jack swung Steve into his arms and gave his crotch a hot grope. “Nice, Miller. Can’t wait to get at it.” “Oh, man!” Steve swooned. “You guys are really killing me here.” “Grrr…” Jack went for Steve’s mouth. Mark nearly came in his pants watching. “Well, I’m certainly awake now.” Jack dipped Steve low in a dance-like move and smiled at him. Mark thought Steve looked like he was too far gone to bring back from the brink of sexual torment. “That hold you, Miller?” “God, Jack…” Steve breathed. “That only made me hotter.” As Jack stood Steve upright, Mark climbed off the bed and tucked his shirt in. “Right. Let’s be sociable.” He held both his men’s hands and headed for the stairs. While he descended he heard Alex’s laughter among the voices of the friends he had grown to adore. At the bottom landing he grinned broadly. “Get over here, Adam.” Seeing Adam’s glowing smile and long brown hair, matching his own, Mark reached out both arms. Adam rushed over and swung Mark into his embrace. “Hello, beautiful.” Adam ground his crotch against his. “Give us a kiss.” Mark couldn’t wait for later that night. With both hands cupping Mark’s jaw, Adam devoured Mark’s lips and tongue with wild enthusiasm. Once he parted from Adam’s delicious mouth, Mark looked into the room. Everyone was watching. “Wow.” Billy Sharpe appeared stunned. “Does everyone get one of those?” Angel Loveday whacked Billy’s shoulder playfully. “You get plenty at home.” Mark made the rounds politely, kissing both Billy and Angel on the cheek. “Hello, Oliver.” Mark waved to the young man. “Hi, Mark.” Alex and Oliver were already snuggled together on the couch. Mark couldn’t believe how adorable they were together. He was thankful Alex had found a loyal boyfriend in Angel Loveday’s son. Alex’s taste in older men had Mark worried. Particularly Alex and Steve’s attraction to each other. But that had since been quelled. 11

G.A. Hauser While Mark listened to conversations around him and began to daydream yet again, serving men in tight black slacks with white dress shirts elevated trays of hors d’oeuvres, while a jazz version of Christmas songs set the background mood. As he scanned the room, Mark met his son’s eye. Another memory hit him at that moment. The night Iris Lehman-Johansen, Alex’s mother, and he made love. He had stopped home to ride his horse Dedre Dunn. But anytime he went near his parents’ estate in Paradise it usually meant a lethal dose of his father, Milt Richfield, to tolerate. And like clockwork, Mark had another horrific blowout with his dad that evening. The name calling and finger-pointing nearly came to blows instead of choice words. While Mark left in fury, he felt emasculated. Something he kept struggling with his entire life. Half of him hated being seen as female, the other, loved male domination. So he grew his hair long, kept his face closely shaven, wore tight clothing, and did everything but wear eye-liner, to get men’s attention. The battle to not be seen as effeminate and still lure top men to his bed had made him a total wreck. On his drive back that night to his and Jack’s off-campus apartment, Mark stopped at a strip club. He needed a dose of female flesh to get the sickening sensation of being called a girl out of his mind. He was not a woman. He did not have a body like that. Like her. Mark was riveted to one woman in particular, and she obviously wanted him. After too many whiskey and sodas to count, Mark was enticed to a back room where he was told this erotic dancer’s name was ‘Iris’. Doubting he could go through with anything to its completion, Mark played along as Iris chatted to him, sitting at a vanity mirror, dabbing her face with a tissue before her next set. Mark made the decision to let Iris rest and go home to a waiting Jack, heading to the door. When he turned to say goodbye he found Iris standing behind him. About to make his apologies and say he needed to leave, Mark was stunned when Iris leapt on him and connected to his lips. He got over the shock and set her back onto her feet again. “Iris…I—” She exposed herself from her top and he was given a personal look at her breasts. “Oh dear.” He sighed in anxiety. Right, if you’re not a poof, Mark Antonious, can you prove it? 12

Packing Heat Iris urged him to sit on a ragged couch so she could stick her breasts into his face. Mark was overwhelmed with her perfume and tried not to run away in fear. It’d been an eternity since he had gotten laid. Jerking off while imagining Jack in the shower wasn’t as satisfying as he once had hoped. Iris ran her hands through his hair and stuck a nipple against his mouth. Feeling obligated, he sucked and licked it, but nothing was happening between his legs. When she dropped her g-string Mark held up his hand. “Wait. I can’t.” “Oh, like hell you can’t.” She laughed and started working on his clothing. Before she discovered that her voluptuous body did nothing for him, Mark caught sight of a photo taped to her mirror. It was of a man wearing a Desert Storm army uniform. Nice! Mark’s cock twitched as he looked at it. Jack would look unbelievable in that get up. What is it about men in uniform? Christ, I need to find a cop to pat me down. Before Mark could ask who the man was, Iris had his slacks down around his ankles. “Are you on the pill?” “No.” “No?” Mark grabbed his cock to prevent her from sitting on it, which she was about to do. “Do you have a rubber?” “Just pull out.” “Pull out?” He held her off. “Are you kidding me? Do you want to get—” She straddled his thighs and sank him into a hot hole. Terrified of connecting with someone who possibly had a legion of men coming to her door (and inside her), Mark restrained the urge to push her off and rant about safe-sex. He was drunk and miserable, but it still went against his common sense. The last thing he needed in his life was the clap or crabs. Iris humped away on him, moaning, playing it up. Needing to get through this ridiculous charade, Mark kept his eyes over her shoulder and on the photo of the hot military guy. Christ, I think I can come! He was stunned. When Mark came he didn’t ‘pull out’. He was so astonished he climaxed, he gasped in relief. Maybe he could play this straight game. He just had to think of cock. As the train of his thoughts ultimately brought him to Sharon Tice and his near miss with marrying her, Mark woke up again to see more guests arriving. “Hello, men!” Josh Elliot led the way inside his front door with the rest of 13

G.A. Hauser the gang behind him. Mark instantly spun back to see Alex for his reaction. This would be the first time the seraph-like lifeguard and his horny son would meet. Lord knew Josh could make anyone climax with just one of his sexy moves across a crowded room. Standing back as it suddenly began to feel like a gay stag film come to life, Mark felt his cheeks warm at seeing the two fabulous LA cops, Mickey Stanton, and Jeff Chandler; the firemen extraordinaire, Blake Hughes and Hunter Rasmussen, and Josh’s macho lifeguard lover, Tanner Cameron. Adam helped with their coats, as Jack accepted the offerings of wine and hard liquor, while Steve made introductions though few were needed. “Where’s our model?” Jeff stretched to look over his friends’ heads. Mark knew he’d be in trouble when those two top men entered the room. Jeff made a beeline for him instantly when they met gazes. He squeezed Mark tight and purred. “There he is.” “Is that a gun in your pocket, Officer?” Mark felt a lovely bulge riding over his own. “Hell no.” Jeff nibbled Mark’s earlobe. The teasing and tickling getting the better of Mark, he roared with laughter and spotted Mickey’s wry smile as he approached. “Can I get some of that?” Jeff whimpered in disappointment at having to share and handed Mark off to his partner in crime, and on the job. “Hey, handsome,” Mark whispered, staring into Mickey’s light eyes. “Why do you always smell so good?” Mickey took a deep inhale of Mark. “My cologne.” “It smells better on you than on me.” Mickey began rubbing his crotch on Mark. “I’m in trouble. You guys know my weakness for cops.” Mark leaned back and noticed Jeff drooling as he watched. Hearing Alex’s voice, Mark turned to look. “Ah…I wondered when my son and Josh would notice each other in the room. Mickey released Mark to take a look. “Wow. Talk about two sticks of dynamite in a barrel.” “Kaboom.” Jeff laughed. “Good luck, Tanner.” “Is your son here with Oliver?” Jeff scanned the room. “Yes. He’s still dating Oliver. I doubt Josh and Alex will connect sexually, 14

Packing Heat but the cock teasing will reach a crescendo.” “As long as Josh doesn’t do a solo act. Keep him sober.” Mickey took one of the canapés as a tray went past. “Nice looking men. Where did you find them?” Mark noticed both cops were smitten by the ass of the server. “Ask Steve. He manages to find all the handsome men in my life.” “Damn.” Jeff rubbed his crotch. “And me and Mick fucked like crazy before we got here because we had a feeling it would be the hottest gay party around.” “It’s just couples.” Mark noticed Tanner already scolding Josh for his behavior. “Doesn’t mean it’s not fun to watch.” Jeff’s green eyes sparkled. “Go Josh!” He pumped his fist playfully. “Don’t encourage him.” Mickey shook his head. “How did you two manage a night off?” Mark asked. “I’m surprised to see Blake and Hunter did as well.” “Seniority. That and you have to ask back in January.” Jeff stopped a server and Mark noticed him giving the man a sexy smile before he took his cheese puff. “Let me greet Josh and get my two cents in about keeping him away from Alexander.” Mark could see Tanner already wasn’t getting anywhere with a wild Josh. “Good luck!” Jeff laughed. Mark made his way closer to the infamous Mr. Elliot. “Ahem?” He tapped Josh’s shoulder as he tempted Alex with naughty gestures and tantalizing licking of his lips. Josh whipped his head around and leapt onto Mark, looping his arms around Mark’s neck. “There you are! Now the party can begin.” “Josh!” Tanner appeared exasperated. “Sorry, Mark. You know what he’s like around you.” Josh’s friction was by far the most overt and he had the hardest dick of the men Mark had shared that pleasure with so far. “Keep that up, love, and you’ll spurt.” “Yes! Yes!” Josh threw back his head. “Oh my God!” Alex laughed loudly. “You do realize the example you’re setting for my son.” Mark tried to scold Josh, but knew Josh was constantly out of control. 15

G.A. Hauser “I do. Man, is he gorgeous or what? Mark Richfield, take two!” Josh made pleading eyes at his lover. “I’m begging you, Tanner.” “No!” Tanner snatched a glass of champagne from a tray. “I’m joking. Cool your jets.” Josh stared at Mark as he continued to hump Mark’s crotch. Mark asked, “Do you like making your man jealous?” “A little. Keeps him on his toes.” Josh licked Mark’s chin. “Dad? How are you doing with a sex-machine trying to screw you through your pants?” Alex asked. “I don’t think I could handle it.” “Really?” Oliver asked, slanting his eyes. “What does that mean?” Angel leaned close to Mark. “Met your match, Mark?” “Not half!” Mark chuckled. “Angel Loveday.” Josh moaned. “I love your old movies.” “Yes. Doesn’t everyone.” Angel took the compliment sweetly. “Here.” Mark pried Josh off his body and maneuvered him to attach to Angel. “Hump him for a bit.” “Oh, yes.” Josh grinned. “Thanks, Mark.” Angel rolled his eyes comically. “Just keep him off my son.” “Josh, you haven’t even had a drink yet.” Tanner tried to cut in. “I can’t help it. I’m so fricken’ hot I need to come.” Hearing Alex’s laughter, Mark wagged his finger at his son. “Don’t watch him. He’s a bad influence.” “You hear that?” Tanner asked Josh. “Yeah. I’ll be good.” Josh released Angel. “But I’ll never regret rubbing dicks with Angel Loveday.” “Hey, handsome.” Blake reached around Mark and kissed him. “Thanks for hosting the bash.” “My pleasure. Where’s your better half?” Mark watched Hunter approaching, carrying a beer in each hand and a mini quiche between his teeth. He handed one beer off and leaned closer to Blake to share the quiche, ending with a smooch. “Thanks, Hunt.” Blake brushed a crumb from Hunter’s cheek as he chewed. “You’re welcome.” Hunter turned to Mark. “Hey, babe.” He pecked 16

Packing Heat Mark’s lips and toyed with his hair. “Thanks for having us.” “I’m just glad you came. I never know with you guys. On, off, working twenty-four hours, off for four days…” “Yeah, it’s life in the fast lane.” Blake sipped his beer. “How have you and Steve been?” “Busy. We have several new associates at the office we’re breaking in.” “Oh?” Hunter’s eyebrows raised. “You’d love them,” Mark said, “Two identical gay twins. Naughty boys.” “Oh no,” Hunter answered, “Don’t even bring them around. I have enough to deal with with Josh.” When Hunter said his name, Mark checked on the young nymph. He’d finally wound down and was leaning against Tanner’s chest as they spoke to Jack and Adam. As a hand made its way beneath his long hair to the nape of his neck, chills rushed over Mark’s skin. He knew the touch and didn’t have to turn around. Reaching back, Mark gave Steve’s groin a nice brush of his hand. “Need anything?” Steve whispered into Mark’s ear. “Do I!” Mark joked. “Later. I mean food. Did you eating anything?” Mark noticed both Hunter and Blake staring at him so he didn’t lie about his food consumption. “Not yet.” Steve picked up a mini crab soufflé and held it in front of Mark’s lips. “It’s hot. Blow.” Hunter moaned and made a face of pleasure. “Don’t say blow in front of a man as fabulous as Mark Richfield.” “Hey.” Blake elbowed Hunter. “I’m standing right here.” “You know I love you.” Hunter kissed him. “You have any idea how much I wish all of you were in uniform right now?” Mark peeked back at Mickey and Jeff before he bit the hovering appetizer. “You ever see Billy in his SWAT outfit?” Mark made a face of ecstasy. “To die for.” “SWAT?” Hunter asked, “Yeah? Do you have a thing for older men?” Blake whacked him. “Older? Billy’s probably my age.” “Ouch. Hey, that’s what I love about you,” Hunter defended. “Okay, I’m not getting in the middle of this one.” Mark chuckled and hooked Steve’s elbow. “Time to mingle.” He threw kisses at the two firemen. 17

G.A. Hauser Mark felt Steve leading him to the kitchen. When Mark entered the room, two men were reloading the food trays, peeking at them as they did. Steve kept Mark moving into the garage, Mark assumed for some private time. “It’s nice and cool in here. The house is hot.” Mark held his long hair off his neck. “I take it you wanted to sneak in here so no one see us going up the stairs.” “Smart as well as the best looking fucker in the house.” Steve pinned Mark against Mark’s TVR sports car. When their lips met at the same time as their groins, Mark draped his arms around Steve’s shoulders and closed his eyes. His Steven. Was there anything as divine as Steven Jay Miller’s mouth? While Steve massaged Mark’s erection through his trousers, Mark began to remember something. An event that had occurred years ago and he was amazed he did. The one and only time Mark had been pulled over by the police for speeding. Was it Steven who pulled him over? He recalled everything he could about that day. Horribly preoccupied with the nightmare at work and pretending to be straight, Mark drove home in a stupor. He changed the radio station from the news to good ole’ fashioned hard rock and roll. When he raised his head to the rearview mirror, red and blue lights were flashing behind him. He had no idea why. He pulled over and felt for his wallet and opened the glove compartment for his registration. As the cop made his way to his window, Mark went into meltdown at his uniform and strut. Even though the cop had his hand on his holster and approached with caution, Mark imagined getting cuffed and on his knees, sucking the man’s cock. “License, registration and insurance card, please.” Mark handed him everything he needed. “Excuse me, Officer, what did I do?” He tried to see past the reflective sunglasses. “You were driving forty miles an hour in a thirty mile zone.” “Oh.” Mark licked his lips hungrily. “Wait in the car, please.” Mark nodded and stared into his side mirror to watch the fabulous man walk back to his patrol car. He was young and muscular, wearing a tight navy blue uniform that showed off his every curve. Sitting in the driver’s side with the door propped open, the cop held the microphone to his lips, keeping his eyes on Mark. 18

Packing Heat “Pat me down. Pat me down.” Mark begged to himself staring into the side mirror. “How do I get this cop to touch me?” The craving was too much to resist. Mark climbed out of the car. A commanding voice said, “Get back in the car, please.” No. Mark shut the driver’s door and stood next to his car, salivating, his cock stiff in his pants. Come get me. “Get back in the car. Now.” The cop rose up, partly shielded by his open patrol car door. Mark tried to see the expression on the young officer’s face, his clean shaven jaw and full lips. Pat me down. Mark held up his hands. He wanted to be touched, not shot. The cop ordered, “Place your hands against the car and spread your legs.” Yes! Mark obeyed. Come on, baby. Give me a good grope. “Why did you get out of the car?” The cop put his hand on Mark’s back, keeping him in place. “I just wanted to—” Mark stopped talking as the gorgeous cop reached under his jacket and touched his chest. Oh, my God! Mark felt his dick pulsate and knew he shot out pre-cum. He was so pent up from denying himself a man he was going mental. The stunning cop felt the roundness of Mark’s pectoral muscles, then under his arms and down his sides. Two hands reached around his belt line and into the top of his jeans. Mark tried to swallow. The contact was so erotic he thought he was hallucinating. He wanted to ask this cop out on a date, beg him to let him suck him off. The officer seemed to take his time, feeling inside the edge of his pants. When he reached around Mark’s pockets on his pelvis, Mark closed his eyes and stifled a full blown groan. He peeked down as the man’s fingers moved very close to his cock in front. Touch it. Come on. Feel how hard I am. Please! Those hands smoothed to his bottom and felt the back pockets firmly. One leg at a time was grasped with both hands, running down to Mark’s shoes and up again, pausing in between and pressing on his balls, then down the other leg and back up. Mark thought he was going to die. He was hard as a rock and couldn’t believe the way this cop was touching him. When the hands ran back up and once again paused between his legs, Mark felt what he thought was an obvious grope. Yes…please be gay and ask me out. Please! After he’d been felt up and down, that strong hand pressed firmly on his 19

G.A. Hauser back. Mark felt the cop lean over him and whisper, “Why did you exit the car, Mr. Richfield?” To feel your hands on me. “I…I thought…” “Get back in your car, please.” No. No… Mark moved slowly, opening his door and sitting down. The cop helped him close the door and leaned into the open window. “Now sit there. Don’t get out. You get it?” “Yes. Sorry.” Mark watched him walk warily back to his car. A second patrol car had pulled up behind the first. Resting his head on the seat, Mark felt tears sting his eyes. He knew he would never be happy unless he was with a man. And after being touched by a cop? He knew exactly what kind of man it had to be. An alpha wolf. Steve chewed his way to Mark’s ear sending chills over Mark’s body. “Do…Do you remember meeting me before we met at Parsons and Company?” “I never would forget meeting you, Richfield.” Steve dug his fingers into Mark’s waistband. “You…” Mark shivered as Steve’s fingertips touched his cock. “You remember patting me down on Santa Monica Boulevard?” Steve leaned back and met Mark’s eyes. “What?” “I was pulled over. I got out of the car when the cop told me not to.” The intensity of Steve’s gaze grew stronger. “You…” Mark licked his lips and tried to swallow. He was so hot from the memory he couldn’t think with all the blood rushing to his cock. “I think it was you. You pulled me over and I got out of the car after you used the microphone in the patrol car.” “You have any idea how many traffic stops I made in my career?” “How many guys make you pat them down for no reason and have a big hard-on?” Mark could tell Steve was wracking his brains to remember. “Never mind. I guess it wasn’t you.” “Is that why when you found out I was ex-LAPD at Parsons and Co. you went crazy for me?” Mark felt like he was panting. “Yes.” “And that night in the New Mexican desert, I was your first male sexual 20

Packing Heat encounter, right? Not Larsen?” “Yes.” Mark wondered how long it would take for Jack or Alex to come searching for them. He’d lost track of the time he’d been gone from the party. “Were you driving a TVR back then?” “No. A black Mercedes. I couldn’t afford the TVR.” A strange gleam came to Steve’s eyes. “You remember.” Mark covered in chills. “Holy fuck!” Steve gasped. “Do you? Do you remember me getting out? Do you?” Mark was so excited he was about to combust. “I do! I kept asking you to get back in the car and I couldn’t figure out why you didn’t.” “I wanted you to touch me. I swear I would risk getting shot just so you would.” “You did. You did risk it. I had unsnapped my holster. I had no idea what you were doing.” “My God. It was you.” Mark cupped Steve’s face. “I can’t believe it. I didn’t even remember that event until just now.” Mark spun around and placed his hands on the car, his chest heaving for breath. Steve nudged Mark’s feet apart with his shoe. Mark gulped and felt sweat break out on his forehead. “We should do this later. Right? Not with a houseful of guests?” “They can wait.” Steve started a pat-down, just as he had that day so long ago. Envisioning Steve in his uniform, armed and dangerous, Mark nearly fainted at the rush. “Steven. Bloody hell, Steven.” Using his knee, Steve pressed up against Mark’s balls as he unfastened Mark’s slacks, peeling them open from behind. When Mark’s cock sprang out of his clothing, Steve growled, “Gone commando? Tonight with a house filled with studs? You bad boy.” “Yes, Officer.” Mark felt Steve’s thumb rubbing over his oozing slit. Hearing Steve rustling behind him, Mark imagined Steve opening his own slacks. He began jerking Mark off, holding one hand in front of the head of his cock to catch his seed. It took nothing. Mark was so pent up from the stimulation of the men in the house and his memories, he clenched his teeth and ejaculated into Steve’s palm. While Steve milked Mark’s dick for every drop, Mark felt the aftershocks rock him. A second later, Steve had his cum-coated 21

G.A. Hauser cock pushing against Mark’s back door. Mark widened his stance and bent over. “Jesus!” Steve hammered into him, holding Mark’s hips. Mark never felt more content than when he had a man’s dick inside his ass. Hearing Steve’s escalating groans and respirations, Mark anticipated hot spunk filling him. He wasn’t disappointed. “Yes. Fuck!” Steve jammed his cock to the base, impaling Mark. “Baby, baby…” Mark caught his breath, knowing they were being very bad by slipping away to slip one in. Steve pulled out and leaned against the car, wiping his face with his sleeve. “Christ, I love you.” A slow clapping echoed in the garage. Mark jerked his head to the door connecting the kitchen and saw what he dreaded. Alex. “Nice one, Dad.” “Alexander!” Steve roared. “Get inside!” “Everyone asked where you guys went.” “Now!” Steve closed his trousers. Mark could see Steve’s vein throb in his temple. “Sheesh! Fine. Just don’t get mad at me when you catch me and Oliver doing it.” “Alex,” Mark pleaded. “Bye.” Alex closed the door. “Why is it he always manages to find us at the worse times?” Mark located a new roll of paper towels in a plastic bin and opened it, handing Steve a few sheets. “He’s got cock-radar. I don’t know.” Steve cleaned up and muttered, “I need to get to a bathroom.” “I’m sorry I got us wound up.” Mark fastened his slacks. “You did.” Steve smiled. “But I started it.” Once Mark was relatively decent, he and Steve returned to the kitchen. Steve held Mark’s hand and led him to a half-bath that wasn’t near the main living area. As they washed, Steve said, “I’m sure Alex has made the announcement.” “That’s a given.” Mark checked his face in the mirror and ran his fingers through his hair. He asked, “You did get me Botox for Christmas, right?” 22

Packing Heat Steve made a frustrated face at him. “Never mind. I can get it myself.” “Go. I need a beer.” Steve grabbed Mark ass. “Oh!” Mark jumped and opened the door. When they reunited with the group, everyone was smiling wickedly. “In the garage?” Josh asked, tilting his head. “Really? You couldn’t perform here?” “Alex,” Steve admonished, “You had to?” Alex shrugged. “You’re the one who doesn’t want me to lie.” “How many beers have you had?” Mark challenged his son’s honesty. Before he answered, Alex peeked at Oliver, then he admitted, “Four.” “You’re done.” Mark gestured with a finger running across his throat that Alex was cut off. Jack and Adam wandered closer to Mark. Jack sniffed at Mark’s hair and shirt. “You began without us?” “Sorry, love.” “I hope you’re not worn out.” Adam brushed at a spot on Mark’s dark slacks. “Cum?” “Yes, dear.” Adam licked his finger and worked at the tiny white drop. Steve held up a beer for Mark. Mark shook his head no, so Steve gave it to Jack who thanked him. “Did we miss anything?” Steve asked Jack. “No. We figured you were getting some.” “You couldn’t wait?” Adam looked disappointed. Mark tugged on his hair. “No.” “How rude.” Adam winked. “Mark remembered an event that occurred while I was still working for LAPD. He said that I pulled him over and gave him a pat-down worth remembering.” Steve tipped the beer up and drank it. “It’s our favorite fantasy.” Jeff leaned into the conversation. “We’re animals.” “Oh, I’d like to see that.” Mark smiled. Mickey stepped closer. “He’s one hellava top.” He nodded to his partner. “You should hear him growl.” 23

G.A. Hauser “Ohh…” Mark expressed his willingness. Steve said, “Richfield has a serious cop-fetish.” “God-yes.” Mark exaggerated a shiver. “We know!” Jeff laughed. “He nearly crawled into the patrol car on top of us on more than one occasion.” “You guys wanna play the voyeur too?” Josh appeared between Jeff and Mickey’s broad shoulders. “I’d like to once in a while. I’m usually the actor.” In Mark’s opinion, Josh was the prettiest man in the room, if he didn’t count his son. But he was biased when it came to Alexander. “Don’t cause trouble for Tanner. He has his hands full with you, Mr. Elliot.” “I won’t cheat. Never.” Josh shook his head. “Good.” “But I can watch.” Josh’s wicked smirk returned. Taking a scan of the occupants first, Josh asked, “Okay, who would you want with you on a desert island?” “Uh oh.” Mickey laughed. “Don’t play that game.” Adam smiled. “Jealousy will rear its ugly head.” “Why? We’re all loyal men.” Josh threw Tanner a kiss. He was standing with Blake and Angel as they chatted. “Come on. Who?” When Josh gestured for Jack to answer, Jack held up his hands. “No way!” “Larsen?” Adam crossed his arms. “You have to think about it?” “You,” Jack said quickly, then grinned. Steve looked around, tapping his lower lip, as if he were deciding. “Uh hum?” Mark nudged him. Steve’s cheeks went crimson. “Which one?” Josh asked Steve. “You have to tell.” “I’ve always been in love with Loveday,” Steve replied, “But I’m nothing without Mark.” He grabbed Mark’s waist and sealed him tightly to his body. “I think Billy’s hot.” Mark found Alex had been eavesdropping. “You like Billy now?” “Always have.” Alex licked his lips. “Jerk.” Oliver punched Alex’s arm. “Owie. Come on, Oliver. It’s a game.” Josh slithered next to Oliver. “How about you, pretty boy?” Mark watched Oliver’s face blush this time. 24

Packing Heat “Yeah. Which older man, Oliver?” Alex asked, pushing Oliver to answer. “Tanner.” Josh coughed in surprise. “My baby?” “Yeah. He’s fabulous.” “Wow.” Alex pouted. “That does feel shitty.” “You asked.” Oliver shrugged. A tall handsome server approached Mark and Steve. “Should we present the main course?” “Yes. Thank you.” Mark smiled. The man nodded and returned the sweet smile. “He wants your ass, Dad.” “Alex,” Mark moaned. “Like Steve.” Alex pretended to hold someone in front of him and thrust his hips in a mock gesture of fucking. “Ah! Ah!” “I’d want you.” Alex choked and blinked at Josh. “What?” “On my island,” Josh said seductively. “Okay, game’s over.” Steve held Josh’s arm and directed him towards Tanner. “Great.” Mark shook his head and met Jack’s eye. Jack mouthed, ‘Don’t worry.’ “Told you it was a bad idea,” Mickey said. “I got my macho cop. I don’t need to fantasize.” Mickey grabbed Jeff around the neck in a headlock. “Christ, Stanton! Later when I can deck you.” Mark laughed and headed to the kitchen to check on the food. “Well, you guys have it all under control.” Mark watched as they filled chafing dishes from hot trays that were in the oven. “You don’t worry about anything. We’ve got it. Go enjoy.” “You know, you can help yourself. Once everyone’s served, relax. Have a drink.” “Thank you, sir.” “Mark, please.” Mark patted the handsome man’s shoulder. “Love the billboards of you on Sunset Boulevard.” “Really? I should think everyone would be sick to death of me. I am.” “Never.” 25

G.A. Hauser Mark winked at the man and headed back to the living room. He was about to announce that the food was being served in the dining room when he spotted Josh and his son kissing as they stood in the doorway to the hall. He stormed over and pushed them apart. “Dad!” “Alexander!” Mark replied in the same tone. Josh wiped his mouth, pointing up to the ceiling. “Mistletoe.” “It was just a peck.” Alex straightened his shirt. “Did Oliver or Tanner see this?” Mark placed his hands on his hips. “We’re next.” Oliver grinned. Mark gaped at Tanner. “He said he wanted a holiday kiss.” Tanner shrugged. Mark backed up. “My mistake.” He gave his son a last warning glance and headed to his three men. Steve had a plate of food in his hand. “Time to eat. Go.” As everyone lined up for dinner, Mark became distracted. He was hungry but afraid to eat rich holiday food. For as long as he could remember he’d had an eating disorder. It wasn’t only women who thought they were fat. Playing the good host, Mark made sure everyone’s plate was overflowing and they had taken their seats at a long dining room table. The servers made the rounds filling water and wine glasses behind the seated men. “Get your ass over here,” Jack ordered, pointing to a chair left open between him and Steve. Mark nodded, but didn’t make a move toward it. “Is everything all right?” A chorus of approval and nods worked its way around the table. Steve rose up, picked up a plate and began filling it. Mark knew it was supposed to be for him. Standing behind Steve to supervise, Mark said, “Steven, I won’t eat all that. Just some of the shrimp and the salad.” “Shut up and sit down.” “Richfield!” Jack summoned and made a more forceful gesture. Now it was getting embarrassing. Mark didn’t want his good friends to know how disturbed he was. The façade he had built for himself had been pretty secure. Other than his son and his lovers, no one knew the real Mark Antonious. “Such a fuss!” Mark tried to make light of it. “I’m just making sure everyone has what they need.” 26

Packing Heat Billy replied, “We’re all sitting and eating. Listen to Jack or I’ll use force.” “Mm!” Alex wriggled in his seat. “Cuff me, Sergeant Sharpe!” “It’s lieutenant,” Angel said. “Billy was promoted.” “Congrats!” Jeff said. “Going for captain next?” “Hell no. Going for retirement next.” “Sit.” Steve placed the dish on the table and nudged Mark over to it. Seeing he now had everyone’s attention, Mark shyly took his seat. The server stood behind him and filled his wine glass. “Thank you.” “My pleasure.” “A toast.” Adam raised his glass high. “To our two hosts, Mark and Steve, and their generosity and kindness.” “Here, here.” A rumbling of deep voices and crystal tapping followed. “Thank you, Adam.” Mark batted his lashes at him. Adam winked at him affectionately. Sipping his wine, Mark felt something out of thin air. He looked up to see Jack and Steve exchanging frowns as they stared at Mark not touching his food. Mark glanced at them each in turn. “Leave me alone.” “I’ll bet you haven’t eaten all day,” Jack said. “Not that I’ve seen.” Steve filled his fork with food. “I don’t need a nanny. I’ve had enough of them.” Mark switched to his water and finished the glass. It was instantly refilled as the servers hovered in the background. Alex spoke with his mouth full, “He’s anorexic.” “Alex,” Mark chided, “Please.” Mark noticed a few of the men shot him a concerned stare. “No way.” Jeff shook his head. “I’m not anorexic.” Mark glared at his son. “That implies I throw up. I do not throw up.” “That’s bulimia,” Adam corrected. Steve held his fork in front of Mark’s mouth. His cheeks were on fire as everyone paused to see if he would eat. Mark opened his lips and Steve fed him. Once he chewed, Mark whispered to Steve, “Stop humiliating me.” “I’ll stop if you eat something.” 27

G.A. Hauser “Please don’t tell me you think you’re fat,” Josh said. “Mark, you’re perfect. I’d kill for your body.” “What’s wrong with yours?” Hunter asked Josh. “You like my body, Hunt?” Josh licked his lips. “Hello?” Blake sat straight in his chair. “I’m right here…” “We’re just playing,” Josh smirked. “He’s still not eating, Steve.” Alex buttered a roll. Mark was about to explode. “Stop.” “Guys,” Angel said, “Leave Mark alone.” “Thank you, Angel.” Mark smiled at him. “Been there, Mark. I didn’t listen to anyone either.” Angel sipped his water. “And I did every drug in the book. Unfortunately you have to find your own way through life.” “Now you’re a health nut.” Oliver stuffed another forkful of food into his mouth. “Yes. Lesson learned.” Angel met Mark’s gaze. When Mark broke his trance on Angel he noticed Jack holding up another bite of food in front of him. Before he refused it, he read fury on Jack’s face. Obediently, Mark allowed Jack to feed him. Chewing slowly, Mark hated revealing his personal problems at gatherings. If Jack and Steve had just left him alone, no one would have taken notice. The minute Jack had retracted his fork, Steve had another loaded one ready. “Bloody hell!” Mark leaned back, away from it. “Stop treating me like I’m an infant.” Steve said angrily in Mark’s ear, “Then pick up your damned fork and eat.” As the conversation ceased and the room became a tomb except for the sound of eating, Mark was mortified. He scooted out his chair and rose up. “I’m sorry. You’ll have to excuse me.” Alex asked, “Going to puke up the two bites you ate, Dad?” Mark didn’t even look back as he hurried out of the room and up the staircase. “Now I feel like shit,” Steve said. “What’s the deal?” Mickey asked quietly. 28

Packing Heat Steve exchanged glances with Jack and Adam. He knew Mark was sensitive about certain issues, and his eating habits were a particular sore spot. “Mark seems to think he needs to watch what he eats.” Steve sighed deeply. “To the extreme.” “He’s not too thin.” Tanner finished his wine and held it out as a server topped it up. “Thank you.” He set his glass down. “So he’s obviously eating enough to look good.” “That’s debatable.” Jack wiped his mouth with his napkin. “He’s topless in all his ads,” Mickey said, “And unless they’re airbrushing them, he’s got a great build.” “That ain’t airbrush,” Steve laughed. “That’s the real Mark.” “Poor baby.” Josh pouted his lower lip. “Now I feel bad.” “Don’t.” Jack leaned his elbows on the table. “He’s fine. Just enjoy your dinner.” “Let me check on him.” Steve rose up and placed his napkin on his chair. “Need back up, Miller?” Adam asked sweetly. “I got it.” Steve patted Adam’s shoulder as he left. He jogged up the staircase and down the dim hallway to their bedroom. Pressing his ear to the door, Steve listened first, then opened it. Mark was lying on the bed in the dark. He turned on the lamp at the bedside and sat next to him. “Am I the talk of the table?” “What do you think?” Steve caressed Mark’s hair. Mark rolled over and faced him. “I don’t need my dirty laundry aired in public, Steven.” “Since one slice of toast this morning, you’ve had nothing but a cup of coffee and a sip of beer.” “I never overindulge during the holidays. You know that.” “I’m not asking you to overindulge. I’m asking you to eat at least a thousand calories a day.” Mark scoffed and looked away. “Not going to happen.” When Steve ran his hand down Mark’s hip, Mark brushed it off. “And I resent you doing this to me tonight. Couldn’t you and Jack have left me alone and scolded me in private. How utterly humiliating.” “I’m sorry.” “You should be. I was having a good time.” “So? That’s it? You’re up here for the night?” 29

G.A. Hauser Mark turned his face away. “Come down. We’ll lay off you.” “They think I’m an idiot.” “Never. Not in a million years.” Steve clasped Mark’s hand in his. Mark shook off the grasp and climbed off the bed, making a wide circle to avoid Steve as he left the room. Steve rubbed his face tiredly. “Okay. I deserved that.” By the time Steve made it downstairs, the men were milling around with coffee or more drinks in their hands as the servers cleared up the table. Adam approached him. “Good job getting Mark to return so quickly.” “He’s pissed at me.” Steve watched as Angel gave Mark a reassuring hug and they spoke quietly. If anyone could relate to having problems and getting over them, Angel could. The poor man had gotten through the eighties and his soft porn star legend to open a bookstore and raise a son on his own. Obviously Angel had done some things he regretted in his past. Steve could imagine what type of drugs Angel could have been using at the time. Not to mention, Angel had survived a stalker out for his life. If anyone could talk sense into Mark, it was him. Alex leaned against Steve. “So? You in the doghouse?” “Yeah. What else is new?” “You didn’t help matters, Alex,” Adam said, “Asking Mark if he was going to throw up his food? Mark does not make himself puke.” “Not that he’s let us see.” Alex sipped a drink. Steve snatched it out of Alex’s hand to sniff. “I said you were off booze.” “No. You said no more beer.” “Where’s Oliver.” Steve searched the room and located him. “Oliver, come here, please.” “Steven,” Alex moaned pathetically. “Yeah?” Oliver asked. “I’m putting you in charge of Alex. Make sure he’s done with alcohol for the night.” Oliver gaped at Alex. “You’re still drinking?” “Just a little.” Alex made a gap between his fingers. “You moron.” Oliver grabbed Alex by his shirt and dragged him off while Alex gave Steve a dirty look. Steve was about to set the glass aside when a server took it from him. 30

Packing Heat “Thanks.” “No problem.” The man nodded and began clearing up empty glasses from the room. When he left, Jack approached Steve, putting his arm around Adam. “So? How’s the impossible Mark Antonious holding up?” “He’s angry with me.” Steve crossed his arms over his chest as he stared at Mark. “Well,” Adam said, “You didn’t have to make an issue about his eating habits in front of everyone.” Steve exchanged guilty glances with Jack. “I know. I just get so sick of him starving himself.” “He’s not too thin so leave him alone.” Adam rubbed Steve’s back. “I just think there’s a time and place for everything.” “Can’t stand it when he’s right.” Jack sighed loudly. “Wow, do I feel like shit now.” Steve ran his hand through his hair. “Forget it.” Jack touched Steve’s cheek. “You’re the least of Mark’s problems.” Steve was aware Jack knew that better than anyone. No one understood Mark as well as Jack Larsen did. It used to get Steve jealous. Not anymore. Not since Mark had every opportunity to leave him and be with Jack, and never did. Besides, Steve had a feeling Jack was weary of dealing with Mark’s ‘issues’ now that he had a very sane, stable man in his life. Adam was the guy you went to when you needed advice. About anything. There was no way Jack would trade places with Steve. “Not in this lifetime.” “What?” Adam leaned closer. “Nothing.” “What’s ‘not in this lifetime’?” Jack asked. Steve met Jack’s gaze, then Adam’s. “I’m very glad I have you guys to count on.” Adam grinned knowingly. “Mark is overwhelming at times.” Rubbing his forehead, Steve had to agree. “He’s an amazing man, you know? But he lets shit dig at him. Trivial shit he should have gotten rid of years ago.” “I know.” Jack stared at Mark. “He just can’t let go of the baggage.” Mark must have sensed they were discussing him because he turned to 31

G.A. Hauser look. When those bewitching green eyes found him in the room, Steve felt his dick thicken. There was nothing like the attention of a man with the sexual aura of Mark to make your cock take notice. “Just go.” Adam pushed Steve from behind. As Steve approached Mark, Mark locked gazes with him. Through his peripheral vision, Steve noticed Angel giving them space. When Steve was so close he brushed against Mark, Steve said, “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay. I just have to get used to people knowing how mental I am.” “No. It’s my fault for embarrassing you, and no, you are not mental.” Mark smiled in his ironic way. “Baby.” Steve dug his fingers through Mark’s hair. “I love you so much.” “I love you too.” Closing his eyes, Steve drew Mark to his mouth. A cacophony of whistles and cheers rose up around them. After sucking Mark’s tongue, Steve parted from their kiss to give him a smile. “Am I forgiven?” “With interest.” Mark cupped his jaw. Alex appeared with a slice of chocolate mousse cake on a plate. “Taste?” He grinned demonically. Before Steve scolded Alex, Mark took the dare, grabbed the fork that sat next to the dessert, and scooped a big bite, stuffing it into his mouth. At the look of shock on Alex’s face, Steve roared with laughter. The room rumbled with hilarity and guffaws. “This you’ll eat?” Alex gaped at his dad. “Mm!” Mark took another large helping and before he ate it, he tantalized Steve. Steve went for it, enveloping the treat into his mouth. Mark threw the fork at his son and pounced on Steve, sucking the chocolate out of his mouth. Steve’s eyes sprang open at the surprise attack. “Jesus!” Alex choked, “Get a room.” “Hey!” Josh said, “Speak for yourself. I’m loving this.” Beyond hot and bothered, Steve managed to stop kissing Mark though it took a lot of willpower. Slightly dazed at his lover’s sexual potency, Steve wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and realized he and Mark were the center of attention. 32

Packing Heat “Well?” Josh put his hands on his hips. “That’s it?” “Uh.” Steve cleared his throat. Even the two serving men had stopped to enjoy it. “Show’s over!” Mark clapped his hands and waved for everyone to stop staring. Steve noticed Alex feeding the rest of his dessert to Oliver as they gazed dreamily into each other’s eyes. As Steve used his thumb to wipe at a chocolate smudge on Mark’s face, he said, “I hope there’s a slice of that leftover.” “Oh?” Mark acted coy. “What will you do with it?” “Smear it all over your cock and eat it off.” “Never!” Mark played up his shock. Steve held up one finger indicating Mark should wait, then he made his way to the kitchen. He used the cake knife to remove a section from the platter. “Let me help.” One of the servers held up a plate. After Steve transferred the slice, he said, “That one’s for later.” “Gotcha.” The man winked and put it into the fridge. “You lucky dog.” “Yeah. I know.” Steve grinned wickedly. Before he left the room, the young man touched Steve’s arm, getting his attention. “Mr. Miller?” “Steve, please.” “Steve. Uh, is it tacky to ask Mark for his autograph?” “Nope. Before you leave, remind me.” “Thanks.” He blushed and nodded his head. “No problem.” Feeling like a million bucks, Steve strut his way back to the group, knowing no matter what Mark thought of himself, Steve had gotten the pick of the litter.

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Chapter Two “Thank you so much for coming.” Mark stood at the doorway, kissing his friends as they made their exit. “We’ll see you soon.” Angel pecked Mark’s lips. “Just take care of yourself.” “I will, Angel.” Mark looked for Billy. When he watched Alex leap on the handsome lieutenant, mashing lips, and Billy’s astonished gasp, Mark shook his head. “He’s got some crush going on your lover.” “I’m used to it.” Angel smiled. “Alex has always had the hots for Billy.” “And Steve, and Jack.” Mark rolled his eyes. “Look, he flirts and plays, but he and Oliver are as solid as two nineteen year olds can be.” “I hope so.” Mark tried to be patient but ended up shouting, “Alex!” “Geez!” Billy backed up from a dazed looking Alex. “There’s your boyfriend. Attack him.” Billy nudged Alex towards Oliver. As Billy approached them, he said, “He’s drunk, Mark.” “I know.” Mark sighed. “Thanks for having us.” Billy pecked Mark’s cheek. “It’s always entertaining.” “I’m sorry.” Mark felt terrible. “In a good way,” Angel added. “Oliver is staying. Is that okay?” “Of course.” Mark waved. “See you guys.” “Well,” Jeff said as he stood before Mark. “Loved it. Thank you.” “Are you guys working New Years?” Mark caressed Jeff’s hair away from his forehead. “Yup. OT. Can’t beat the money.” Jeff smiled at Mickey. “Don’t worry, Mark. Officer Chandler will still get his cock sucked at midnight.” “Unless there’s a shooting.” “Shut up.” Mickey slapped Jeff’s arm. “You’re jinxing us, Chandler.”

Packing Heat “Oh! Ah! Police brutality.” Jeff held up his hands. “I love you guys.” Mark was always putty around these men. “Mmm…” Jeff grabbed Mark close. “When are you going to do a threeway with us, Richfield?” “Oh…” Mark shivered. “Don’t even ask.” Mickey sidled closer and began chewing on Mark’s earlobe as Jeff licked at Mark’s neck. “Another performance?” Hunter asked excitedly. “I’m not ready to leave yet, Blake.” Before he got carried away, literally, Mark backed up. “Okay you bad boys. Enough. My luck Steve is watching.” “I am.” Mark spun around. “They started it.” “We did.” Jeff pecked Mark’s lips. “Bye, hun. See you soon.” “Bye, love.” Mark kissed Mickey and reached for Blake and Hunter next. “You two be careful out there.” “We will, Mark. Love spending time with you boys.” Blake rubbed Mark’s back. “Me too. Call soon.” Hunter kissed Mark’s cheek and reached for Blake. “My turn!” Josh jumped on Mark, locking his ankles behind Mark’s back. Mark grunted from the weight and felt Josh trying to shove his tongue down his throat. “Josh!” “Down boy.” Tanner grabbed Josh around his waist and picked him up off of Mark. “Sorry, Mark.” “Blimey!” Mark regained his balance. “I kissed a boy and I liked it,” Josh sang, rubbing his crotch. “Thanks, Mark. I’d apologize, but I think I have enough for this character already.” Tanner kissed Mark’s cheek. “Don’t worry, love. I do enjoy it. He is a handful however. I don’t envy you.” “Uh, you should envy me.” Tanner’s eyes lit up. “Best head I ever had.” “Yum!” Josh licked Tanner’s face and grabbed Tanner’s ass. “Go. Trouble.” Tanner escorted Josh outside. “Bye!” Josh waved. 35

G.A. Hauser Mark closed the door and located Adam, Jack and Steve helping clear up with the two servers. He paused to see his son heading to the stairs, holding Oliver’s hand. “You guys going to bed?” “Yup. Nighty-night.” Alex waved. “Goodnight, Mark.” “Goodnight, Oliver.” Mark waited until they vanished from his sight, then he joined the men in the kitchen. “Mark, do you still have any of those promotional photos around?” “Which ones, Steven?” Mark tied up the full trash bag and removed it from the kitchen receptacle. “The new Christmas postcard. You know, with you topless in those black pants.” “Why?” Mark shook out a new plastic bag to line the can with. “Bruce would like one.” “Bruce?” Mark straightened his back to pay attention to Steve. “Bruce.” Steve gestured to one of the servers, who appeared very shy at the moment. “Signed?” Steve said. “Oh! Yes. Of course.” Mark nodded and left the room. He searched through some files in the office/study and then tried his bedroom. As he walked down the hall he could hear his son and Oliver’s grunting and moaning. Trying not to listen, Mark closed the door to his room and turned on the light. He tracked down a folder and slid the postcards out. Before he returned to the kitchen, Mark was slapped with another memory. This one was not a good one. It was of the modeling shoot for Sunspecs sunglasses that had gone horribly wrong. Before Mark had signed an exclusive contract with Dangereux Cologne, he had a few freelance photo shoots with a various number of products. Three unsavory men had tried to sexually assault Mark. Trying to block out the image, Mark shivered. His worst nightmare, being forced into sex with someone he did not want. He dropped to his bed and sat still for a moment. The case had never gone to court. The three men had pled guilty to a lesser charge of misdemeanor assault, and were given credit for time served and probation. Billy had recommended accepting the terms to spare Mark of any more embarrassment or unwanted publicity. “What a bloody life I’ve led.” Mark rubbed his eyes. “Right. Chin up.” He 36

Packing Heat motivated himself to leave the room. As he shut the light a very audible, “Oh, fuck!” was heard from Oliver who was obviously in the throes of a climax. “Good lord.” Mark hurried down the stairs to avoid hearing anything else. When he returned he said, “Right,” and leaned on the counter with a pen in his hand. “Who shall I make it out to?” Bruce closed the gap between them. “My boyfriend, Franco.” “To Franco,” Mark said as he wrote, “Happy Christmas?” “Sure. That would be fine.” Bruce smiled. “Write something sexy,” Adam said, drying his hands on a towel and peering over Mark’s shoulder. “Like what, Mr. Lewis?” Mark raised his eyebrow. “Like, wouldn’t you love to get your dick sucked by me?” Jack and Steve cracked up with laughter. The second waiter said, “Wow.” “Write it!” Steve doubled over and waved at Mark. “God, that is too funny.” Mark made eye contact with Steve, giving him an admonishing shake of the head. The pen hovering over the card, suddenly everyone became interested. “You don’t seriously expect me to write that, do you?” “I’d love it.” The second server continued to load the dishwasher. “You want one too?” Mark asked. “Go get him one.” Adam pushed Mark to the door. “Why don’t you just tell me how many you need?” Mark asked. “Two.” Steve held up his fingers. Mark knew Steve was aware that the way he was gesturing it meant, ‘fuck you’ to the British. “Are you insulting me again?” “Will you just get one more card?” Adam said, “Never mind. Where are they? I’ll get it.” “In our bedroom. There’s an envelope on the dresser.” Adam jogged out of the kitchen. “Where was I?” Mark tried to focus. “To Franco…” Steve coached, “Wouldn’t you…” “For pity’s sake.” Mark glanced back at the two servers to see their reaction. “Please. Just tell me what to write.” “Well,” Bruce replied, his cheeks burning with his blush. “If you could write that, I wouldn’t have to buy Franco a Christmas gift this year.” 37

G.A. Hauser “Are you bloody serious or taking the mick?” “Mark, Bruce doesn’t speak British slang,” Steve said. “Just be a good sport.” Mark made eye contact with Bruce. “You seriously want me to write that?” “God yeah.” Bruce rubbed his hands together nervously. Adam appeared with a second postcard. “By the way, your son and Oliver are going at it.” “Still?” Mark took the card from Adam. “To be nineteen again.” Mark wrote the seductive question on one and peered back at the second man. “To whom?” “Jose.” “Right. You’re all perverted.” Mark added the naughty comment and signed it with a flourish. “There you go. And it’s not like a coupon. They can’t collect.” Jack coughed in a laugh before he took the garbage bags out to the garage. “Wow. This is amazing. Thank you.” Bruce beamed at Mark. “My pleasure. Make sure that man pays you.” He pointed to Steve. “With a nice tip.” “I’ll take good care of them, Mark, don’t worry.” Steve washed his hands at the sink. “We’re done, Mark. Come with me.” Adam hooked Mark’s elbow. Mark walked to the living room where the tree stood, glimmering in the darkness. The house was nearly back to perfect again with the efficient cleanup effort. Adam persuaded Mark to the sofa and sat beside him, holding Mark’s hand on his lap. “How are you?” “Surviving.” Mark loved Adam. Yes, Steve and Jack were big, brawny macho men, but Adam was the sensitivity behind all of Jack’s power and Steve’s bravado. “Have you recovered from what those two beasts did to you at dinner?” “That’s nothing. My father used to beat me.” Adam frowned. “I know, babe.” He brushed Mark’s hair back from his face. “Everyone has a story to tell. Some brutal, some just emotional. I don’t think anyone got away scot-free.” “Jackie has. He comes from a stable family, became one of the best lawyers in LA…” 38

Packing Heat “And didn’t land you.” “He did better landing you.” Mark felt his eyes sting. Coming to terms with Jack and Adam being a couple wasn’t easy in the beginning. “Believe me, Jack has his own set of demons.” “Perhaps, but nothing he can’t handle.” “You realize you don’t have to battle anything alone.” Adam cupped Mark’s jaw. “Sometimes we do, love. We do.” “No.” Adam drew Mark to his mouth. Mark kissed him, loving Adam’s technique of tongue swirling. When they parted Mark smiled and it made his watery eyes overflow down his cheeks. In embarrassment, Mark quickly mopped them up. “Sweetie.” Adam held Mark’s face in both his hands. “You know you can talk to me. I’m not going to judge you.” “I know. Thank you, love.” Mark battled to remain unemotional. “Come here.” Adam hugged Mark, squeezing him close. Mark let out a long exhale, holding tight. “I love you, Adam.” “I love you too, Mark.” “Aren’t you two adorable?” Jack said. Mark backed up and wiped at his eyes. Steve entered the room holding up a plate of the chocolate mousse pie. “Time for dessert?” “What do you plan on doing with that?” Mark asked, standing up with Adam. “Smearing it on your body, Richfield, and then chewing it off.” “Bloody hell.” Mark blinked. “Bed time.” Adam held Mark’s hand and led him upstairs. As they made it to the top landing, Mark listened. “Sounds like they finally wore each other out.” He gestured to Alex’s bedroom door. “They’re probably dead to the world.” Jack entered the master bedroom and turned on the light. Steve closed and locked the door behind them, setting the cake on the nightstand. Mark stood back and watched as the three men undressed, all staring at him as they did. It felt as if Mark was battling a long, weary day but he always 39

G.A. Hauser got his second wind with these men around. He toed off his shoes and tugged his shirt tails out of his trousers. Not surprisingly, Steve was naked first. He approached Mark to help him strip. “You up for it, babe?” “Yes. Of course.” “I gave you a good ‘buggering’ in the garage earlier.” Steve tossed Mark’s shirt on a chair. “I’ve become used to it. No worries.” “I do worry.” Steve dug his fingers through Mark’s hair. “You’d tell me if you didn’t want to.” “Yes. Of course.” Mark loved the care in Steve’s blue eyes. Jack and Adam were naked as well, and stood behind Steve. Mark snapped back into focus and unzipped his pants, dropping them down his legs as Steve held him steady. “Lie down.” Steve pointed to the bed. Though Mark was always the main course in this quartet, he felt timid and had no idea why. The day of unresolved issues and bad memories was clouding what usually was a good time. Lying face up, Mark watched Jack as he dug into the nightstand and set a strip of condoms and a tube of lubrication on the bed. Steve knelt on the spread beside Mark and held the cake in his hand. “Man, I don’t need chocolate to want to devour you.” Before Mark could respond, telling Steve he certainly didn’t have to use it, Steve removed the cake from the plate and smeared a thick chocolate road from Mark’s balls to his sternum. “Bleedin’ hell!” Mark gasped, thinking Steve wouldn’t actually do it. Adam dove down from the foot of the bed, licking Mark’s nuts. Jack dropped to his knees and began eating the cake off Mark’s low abdomen, and Steve went for Mark’s chest. Mark’s pulse and respirations skyrocketed. He stared at the ceiling as the tongue-teasing and sucking began to drive him wild. When Adam cupped Mark’s semi-erect dick and began lapping the chocolate off, which had the consistency of pudding, Mark began to writhe. “Ohh, Richfield!” Steve moaned, his face covered in cake. “Goddamn, that’s amazing.” “Move over, Adam.” Jack battled for the choice spots. Adam spread Mark’s legs and gnawed on his balls and ass while Jack sucked his cock. Mark whimpered and felt his cock pulsate with the thrill. 40

Packing Heat “Baby, baby!” Steve connected to Mark’s mouth. Mark was already panting for air as he licked the sweetness from Steve’s lips. Feeling his ass penetrated, Mark jolted and threw his head back into the pillows. Steve sat up to take a look at the action below Mark’s waist. “Feel good, lover?” Steve licked the last of the chocolate from Mark’s nipples. “Yes!” Mark’s cock throbbed strongly and he knew Jack got a taste of precum. It made Jack suck harder and faster. Adam’s scrotum rub was sending Mark over the moon. “I’m there…lads, I’m there.” Mark’s muscles tensed and Jack became a sucking machine as Steve chewed Mark’s neck and ear. The gasp got caught in Mark’s throat as he came. His eyes nearly rolled back in his head from the intensity. Jack’s sucking slowed in speed but not in strength. Mark knew Jack wanted every last drop. When he opened his eyes, Mark spied Adam sheathing his cock and squeezing a dollop of lube onto his hand. Catching his breath, Mark watched Adam kneel between his legs and nudge Mark’s thighs apart. “That’s it, baby.” Mark spread wide and bent his knees for Adam. Adam inched closer and pushed the head of his cock inside Mark’s ass. While he did, Adam groaned and closed his eyes. Jack and Steve watched, smoothing their hands over Mark’s body sensually. “Jesus!” Adam grunted and Mark felt Adam’s cock pulsating rapidly. “I’m fucking there!” Adam shouted as if the fact he was coming was a surprise. Mark savored Adam’s length dancing inside him and moaned in pleasure. Just as Adam pulled out, Jack readied himself. “Need more lube?” “I’m okay, love.” Mark held his own knees as Jack took Adam’s place. Adam removed the condom and stood observing. Jack slid in effortlessly and braced himself on Mark’s legs as he thrust in. “Mark, you are a god! A G-O-fucking-D!” Jack clenched his teeth and all his massive muscles appeared like sinewy fibers under his taut skin. “Take me, Jackie…take me.” Mark’s cock began to rise. There was nothing he liked more than getting fucked. During their first few forays into group sex, Mark would only connect with one of them, but eventually with enough begging, he was able to take all his lovers. “I’m there.” Jack pressed hard against Mark’s bottom and came. Mark 41

G.A. Hauser grabbed his own cock and jerked it as Jack climaxed. “Son of a bitch!” Jack sat back and caught his breath. “I love fucking you!” “Next.” Steve pushed Jack so hard, Jack tumbled off the bed. Steve held onto his dick, pulling the condom on tighter. “You sure you’re good to go, sweetie?” “Best for last.” Mark kept tugging on his own cock, feeling the remnants of sticky chocolate. “Yes!” Steve sank in and moaned loudly. “Shh! You’ll wake Alex.” Mark hushed him. “Sorry.” Jack and Adam returned from the bathroom to lie next to Mark on the bed, caressing him and kissing him as Steve fucked him. “Yes…oh, so nice.” Steve hammered away, obviously in heaven. “That’s it, love.” Mark knew he could come again now. Watching Steve’s handsome face as he climbed the ladder to an orgasm, Mark’s cock was rigid once more. “Allow me.” Adam took over the stroking from Mark as Jack toyed with Mark’s nipples. Both Jack and Adam were riveted to Steve’s act. Mark could see Steve staring at Adam’s hand on his cock. Steve licked his lips and hissed. “Jerk that monster off, Adam.” Adam quickened his pace, his fist becoming a blur of movement. Mark’s body jumped with both inside and outside stimulation. “Ah!” “Oh, baby. I know that sound.” Steve ground his balls against Mark’s ass and then resumed his pace. “Feel good, Mark Antonious?” Feel good? Mark was nearing an altered state. “Ah! Ah!” “Holy shit!” Steve grunted and howled as he came, jamming his body hard against Mark’s. When Mark’s slit began spurting thick cream, Adam went for it, opening his mouth and sucking the head of Mark’s dick. Climax number two was devastating in its intensity. Mark could barely breathe. Steve toppled off the bed and leaned his elbow on it as he panted for air. “Son of a bitch, Richfield.” “Damn!” Adam closed his eyes and licked his lips. “He fucking tastes better than the cake.” 42

Packing Heat “Ahhh…” Mark unwound his legs and spread out on the bed. “Bloody, bloody hell…” Jack brushed Mark’s hair back from his sweaty forehead. “You get enough cock, Mark Antonious?” “Never.” Mark laughed tiredly. Steve vanished into the bathroom, returning with a wet washcloth, handing it to Jack. Jack cleaned Mark’s skin of sticky sugar and his bottom of lube. Once they were all attended and had prepared for bed, Steve shut the light and crawled under the covers behind Mark. Mark reached across Jack and Adam as they crowded the king-sized bed, but he would have it no other way. Exhaustion hit, and Mark fell into a deep slumber.

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Chapter Three The next morning the sound of men whispering woke Mark. He opened his eyes and heard Jack and Adam talking together in the en suite bathroom while Steve lay beside him, staring at him. “Mornin’, love.” Mark smiled. “Hey, good lookin’.” Steve returned the smile. “How long have you all been awake?” “Not long.” Steve spider-walked his hand to Mark’s crotch. “I was hoping for that.” “I wouldn’t mind brushing my teeth first.” Steve groaned like he was in pain. “I’ve been struggling not to wake you up. Now you want to get out of bed?” Adam entered the room, a towel wrapped around his hips. “Did we wake you, Mark?” “No. It’s time I was up. Do you have to go?” Mark propped his head on the pillow. “We could stay for coffee, but we should head out. We have a ton of things to do.” Steve peeled back the sheets, revealing Mark’s body. “One lick?” “Go on,” Mark replied, smiling. “Morning wood?” Adam dropped the towel. “Someone say ‘wood’?” Jack leaned into the room. Steve scooted downwards and climbed on top of Mark’s legs. “We just came in the shower, Larsen,” Adam said, “So, why do I feel like coming again?” Mark chuckled and admired Adam’s semi-erection. “Because Mark’s an aphrodisiac.” Jack sat naked on the bed to watch. Adam joined him, leaning against Jack as he did. “Mm.” Steve ran long wet laps up Mark’s length.

Packing Heat A shiver of delight washed over Mark. “Very nice, Steven.” “I’ll say.” Steve nudged Mark’s legs wider. “Need lube?” Adam skirted the bed to the nightstand. While he sucked, Steve held out two fingers to Adam. Adam squeezed a blob onto the tips of Steve’s fingers. Mark observed quietly as Adam dropped the tube back into its place, then stood beside the bed, working his own cock. When Jack realized what his lover was doing, he knelt upright to become an active participant. “Yes!” Steve said enthusiastically. Before Mark could reply, Steve slipped two fingers into his ass, making his hips rise off the bed in response. “Sore?” “No.” Mark had been playing bottom for years, screwing at least once a day. His body had become used to it. Propping up his head to watch, Mark remembered in time past how often he had to close his eyes and fantasize touching a man while he was with women. He much preferred keeping his eyes open to living in his head in order to climax. Steve held the base of Mark’s cock with one hand and finger-fucked Mark with the other, the perfect combination for Mark. “That’s it, love.” Steve wriggled against the mattress and groaned, increasing his speed and suction. The prostate rub was superb. Mark opened his mouth to draw in deeper breaths. Glancing at Adam and Jack as they performed solo acts for him, Mark was soon near the edge, trying to stay there and not give in to the urge to climax. Steve was obviously enjoying himself. He got to his knees for a better angle and took long hard sucks on Mark’s cock as he drew upwards. “Fuck.” Mark immediately connected to Adam at his exclamation. Adam’s cum erupted from his slit and coated Mark’s chest. It sent Steve wild, causing him to accelerate the pace of his hands. The friction up his ass was too much to resist. Mark gasped, “Ah!” “I know what that means.” Jack added his load to Mark’s spattered skin. Watching Jack’s cum shoot out of his cock strengthened Mark’s pleasure. He arched his back and came hearing Steve’s deep masculine groans as he swallowed. Before Mark had recuperated, Steve knelt up and contributed to the 45

G.A. Hauser creamy ribbons spread across Mark’s body, as if he were a Jackson Pollock abstract painting. “Holy Christ, Richfield,” Steve panted to catch his breath, milking his own cock, sending the last drops onto Mark’s pubic hair. Adam picked up a mobile phone from the nightstand and aimed the lens at Mark’s torso. “I have to have this one. You covered your crotch in the last one.” “Adam,” Mark scolded. “No face. Just dick and spunk.” He took the photo and asked, “Whose phone is this?” “Mine.” Steve chuckled. “Email it to me and then delete it.” Adam handed it to him. Steve used Mark’s thighs to wipe his hands first. “Good lord.” Mark looked down at the mess. “Delicious.” Jack smeared the sperm all over Mark’s chest. “Jackie…” Mark shook his head playfully. “Oops.” “Oops?” Mark asked Steve in concern. “What happened?” Adam tried to see Steve’s phone from behind Steve’s shoulder. “Hee hee.” Steve’s cheeks went crimson. “Steven?” Mark asked again. “What did you do?” “I…uh…” Steve used his thumb to press buttons on his phone. “Tell me.” Mark leaned up on his elbows. “I accidentally emailed it to everyone.” “Everyone who?” Mark felt ill. “Everyone on my phone list.” Steve narrowed his eyes as he read the tiny phone’s display. “Crap, my sister Laura got that one.” “Steven!” Mark sat up. “It doesn’t have your face on it.” Adam tried to calm Mark. “No one will know it’s you.” “Like bloody hell they won’t! Steven, are your parents on that list?” “No.” Steve bit his lip as he continued to read the phone. “I’m checking who is.” “I don’t believe this.” Mark climbed off the bed and headed to the bathroom as the other three gathered around Steve’s cell phone. 46

Packing Heat Mark leaned on the sink and stared into the mirror. “Why is it constantly something?” “Jesus, Steve!” Alex yelled through the bedroom door. Mark heard him and cringed. “Erase it, Alex. It was a mistake!” Steve answered. “Did you all jack-off a load on him?” “Steven!” Mark roared, his own voice echoing in the tile room. “Hang on, Mark.” Mark could hear Steve talking to Alex through the bedroom door. “Alexander, erase it!” “No way!” “Alex!” Mark shook his head and turned on the water in the shower. “My life as a dog.” Mark felt as if the odds were forever stacked against him. Steve slipped on a pair of shorts and closed himself out in the hall. “Give me your phone.” “No.” Alex laughed and turned his back to Steve, racing down the stairs. “Alex!” Steve bounded after him, grabbing at him. “Tough!” Alex obviously found the situation hilarious. “What now?” Oliver looked up over his cereal bowl. “This!” Alex held the tiny screen in front of Oliver. “Is that your dad?” “Yup. They all jacked off on him.” “Alexander Mark Richfield!” Steve was exasperated and took another grab at the phone. Alex spun away. “I’ll send it to you, Oliver.” “I don’t want a naked picture of your dad.” Oliver slurped the milk from the bottom of the bowl. “Zoiks.” Alex’s eyes went wide. Steve felt sweat break out on his forehead. “Do not tell me you just did what I did.” He knew Mark’s feelings about being shown off naked. This was mortifying Mark. “You didn’t send it to everyone, did you?” Alex asked sheepishly. “Oh no.” Steve shook his head in agony. 47

G.A. Hauser “Oopsy.” Alex grinned nervously. “Delete it!” Steve ordered. “Doesn’t make much difference now.” Alex pushed buttons on his phone. “Who’s on your list?” Steve dreaded Mark finding out. “Half of UCLA’s campus.” Alex chuckled. “Oh well.” “Shit.” Steve hung his head and returned to the upper floor. “…and Grandma Leslie!” Alex called after him. “Shit, shit, shit.” Steve knew it was bad when Mark’s prim English mother was a recipient. When he entered the bedroom, both Adam and Jack were dressed. “I’m so dead.” “It’s my fault.” Adam ran his fingers through his hair. “I did the photo taking. He let me do it once before and didn’t seem to mind.” “Yeah, you did! This is your fault.” Steve tossed the phone on the nightstand. “No. I take the blame. It was my slip of the finger.” He looked around for Mark. “Did you guys say anything?” Jack said, “You mean about Alex sending it to the UCLA campus?” Steve winced. “No. We left that for you.” Jack patted Adam’s arm. “I need coffee.” “Sorry, Steve.” Adam made a face of regret at Steve. “Meet you downstairs.” Jack tilted his head for Adam to follow. When they left, Steve made his way to the bathroom. Mark had just shut off the water and was standing behind the shower doors, dripping. “Hey.” Steve pushed back the door. Mark gave him a glaring look. “I deserve that.” Steve nodded. “I’m sorry. But it’s just your torso. No one will know it’s you.” “That’s nonsense. Who else’s body would it be, coming from your phone?” Steve handed him a towel. Taking it, Mark rubbed it over his head. “Why am I always the victim when there’s a mistake, hmm?” “That’s not true.” Steve shed his shorts and climbed into the tub as Mark climbed out. “I’ll never hear the end of it.” Mark fixed his towel to hang around his 48

Packing Heat waist. “I don’t need this.” “I said I was sorry. What else can I do? Adam took the picture.” When Mark left the bathroom, Steve turned on the water knowing how embarrassed he’d be if it were his naked body being sent around the globe. Mark dressed in a pair of jeans and was about to select a shirt off a hanger in his closet when his home phone rang. He waited to see if Alex would pick it up before he gave in. “Hello?” “Oh my God!” “Josh?” Mark had a sinking feeling this was the first of many phone calls. “What a Christmas gift! Forget the bottle of wine you gave us at the party, this is more what I want.” “How did you know it was me?” Mark sank down to the bed, slouching over his lap. “Uh, you kidding?” “But Steven said it doesn’t show my face.” Mark knew it wouldn’t matter. “Two plus two, sweetie. From Steve’s phone, and the biggest dick I’ve ever seen. You’re a legend.” “Bollocks.” Mark rubbed his eyes. “Delete it. It was sent to you accidentally. Please, Josh.” “Only after I print it. Will you autograph it?” “Are you trying to wind me up?” Mark was about to scream. “No. Uh, okay. Gotta go. Thank Steve for me.” Mark slammed the phone into the receiver and tried to count to ten. It wasn’t working. He made a beeline to his dresser and dug for a secret stash in the bottom drawer. As he shook out a valium into his palm, he heard the shower stop running. Mark popped the tablet into his mouth quickly, swallowing it and hiding the vial. “I haven’t needed one of those in months. Great. Just flamin’ great.” The sense of someone watching him made Mark spin around. Steve stood in the doorway between the bedroom and bathroom. “You okay?” Mark had no idea if he had seen him hide the pills. “No. Josh called to thank me for the Christmas present.” “I’m sorry, Mark. I’ll keep saying it if you need me to.” 49

G.A. Hauser “Leave me alone.” Entering the closet, Mark snatched a shirt off the hanger and put it on as he left the room. Once Mark hit the bottom landing he heard his son’s laughter. “Great, just bloody great.” Mark entered the kitchen where Jack and Adam were standing, sipping coffee and Alex and Oliver were seated at the table behind empty cereal bowls. They stopped talking when he showed up in the room. “Hi, Dad,” Alex said with an exaggerated sense of enthusiasm. Adam poured Mark a mug of coffee. “Here, babe.” “Thank you.” Mark took it and sat with his son. “I hope you deleted it.” He added milk and one teaspoon of sugar to his cup. “Yes. But did Steve tell you what happened?” Mark tried not to cringe as he looked at Jack for the answer to that question. Jack said, “Alex accidentally sent it to everyone on his phone list as well.” Though Mark appreciated Jack for his constant candor, the news was not good. “Alex.” Mark showed his teeth in his snarl. “Didn’t you hear? Jack said it was an accident.” Alex glared at Jack. “Nice one for ratting me out.” “He needed to know.” Jack placed his mug in the sink. “Anything you want before we go, Mark?” “Yes. End my misery.” Adam hugged Mark from behind. “And this too shall pass.” “I don’t know why you had to take the bleedin’ photo in the first place.” Mark placed his coffee on the table before he spilled it. “Because you’re gorgeous. You have nothing to be ashamed of.” “Oh?” Mark spun around to catch Adam’s eye. “Why don’t we do the same to you and send it to your phone list. Shall we?” Alex laughed and Mark caught Jack glaring at Alex for it. “I apologize, Mark. It was impulsive.” Adam tugged on Mark’s hair. “We have to go.” Jack kissed Mark’s cheek. “Thanks for the great night last night.” “Bye, Jackie.” “Don’t beat yourself up over this.” Jack caressed Mark’s cheek. “I will.” Mark didn’t smile. “Bye, Mark.” Adam kissed his cheek. “See ya, guys.” Adam said to Alex, “Don’t torment your father.” 50

Packing Heat “But it’s so much fun.” Alex grinned mischievously. “Don’t.” Jack pointed his finger into Alex’s nose. Mark began to feel the effects of the pill. It made him tired, not calm. He gulped his coffee trying to wake up. “You guys leaving?” Steve appeared at the kitchen doorway. “Yes,” Jack said. “I’ll walk you to the door.” Mark tried to listen as Steve escorted the men out. They were silent, but Mark could imagine the expressions on their faces. Even though Mark did nothing, he would get the blame. It was how his life worked eternally. “Let’s go, Oliver. I’m bored.” “Okay.” “Put your plates into the dishwasher,” Mark said. In silence, Alex did. “Bye.” Mark didn’t answer but heard Steve ask, “Where are you going?” “Out.” “Will you be home for dinner?” “I have no idea.” Mark wasn’t sure he cared anymore what Alex did. When Oliver was with him, he didn’t worry about him. Steve returned and opened the refrigerator taking out a loaf of bread and the butter. Mark hated the fact it was Sunday. He wanted to go to work. Spending the day with Steve didn’t sound appealing at the moment. He was so angry with him, he didn’t want to be in the same room. The sound of the toaster ejecting the bread woke Mark out of a daydream. Two buttered slices were set before him. “I don’t want them.” “Why not?” “I’m not hungry.” Mark slid the plate away from him. “Stop being mad at me.” “No.” “How long is this crap going to last?” Steve topped off Mark’s coffee cup. “How long will my naked image be on everyone’s cell phone and email?” Mark didn’t want more coffee either and nudged the cup aside after Steve had 51

G.A. Hauser filled it. “Mark, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry.” “Alexander sent it to all his friends as well. Are you happy now?” Mark stood. “So I get the blame for that mistake as well? Adam took the stupid picture.” “I’m leaving.” “Where are you going? I thought we would spend the day together.” Steve replaced the coffee pot and approached him. “I just need to have time alone.” “You hate time alone. You get depressed.” Steve rubbed Mark’s shoulder. “I’ll see you later.” “Mark.” Steve held him. “Steven, don’t make me any angrier than I am.” “Is that possible?” Steve laughed softly. “I’ll see you later.” Mark jerked his arm out of Steve’s grasp and slipped his shoes on as he stood by the garage door. He felt Steve watching. Picking up his keys and wallet from the counter, Mark opened the adjoining door and immediately pushed the button to elevate the garage door. Hazy winter sunshine lit up the dark interior. Mark climbed into his sports car and started it. He knew Steve was still hovering in the doorway but didn’t glance that way. He backed out, feeling lightheaded but hopefully not too drugged up to drive. Using the remote on his visor, Mark shut the garage door and any possible view of Steve. He pulled out of the driveway and down the street, wishing his shrink had Sunday hours. He craved Jack but he was obviously busy with Adam. His mind wandering as it usually did, especially during the holidays, Mark drove to a neighborhood he had not been to since he had met Steve at Parsons and Company. He parked across the street from a house with a high hedge out front and stared at it. Sharon Tice. Where would he be right now if he had exchanged vows that day instead of leaving her at the altar? There would be no naked photos of him floating around, he would be 52

Packing Heat considered respectable, and he would be miserable. A minivan pulled into the driveway. Mark sat up and watched. Sharon had a sister, Katie. Was that her? A man exited the driver’s side and walked around behind the van to the passenger’s side. “Bloody hell!” Mark gaped as a very pregnant woman was helped out of the vehicle. The minute she was steady on her feet, she turned to look at him. They met gazes. Mark didn’t hesitate. He shut the motor and got out, walking across the street to her. “Mark? What are you doing here?” “Sharon Tice! Look at you.” Mark laughed and gestured to her belly. “Sharon Tice-Walker,” she corrected with a grin. “Brent, this is Mark Richfield.” “Oh,” Brent replied as if that name meant something. “You’re the man that left Sharon at the altar for another man.” “It seems my reputation precedes me in all respects.” Mark was not pleased but certainly expected it. “Nice to meet you.” Mark extended his hand. Brent shook it, appearing pinched. “Go in. I’ll be right there.” Sharon waved to the man. He nodded. “See ya.” Mark waited as he walked down the long driveway. Once he did, Mark looked at Sharon again. “My word. When are you due?” “Any day.” She rubbed her dome of a belly. “I’m thrilled for you.” “Thanks, Mark. So? Why did you decide to come by? Things not good with your guy?” “Do you need to sit?” Mark couldn’t imagine hefting that weight around. “I’m okay at the moment.” She leaned against the van. “Things are all right. I suppose I was feeling nostalgic.” “’Tis the season.” “Yes. Quite.” Mark propped himself up beside her. “Everyone in the family okay?” “Yes. Everyone is. Thanks for asking.” Awkwardness sank in. “I have a son.” 53

G.A. Hauser “Really? Did you arrange a surrogacy pregnancy?” “No. Alexander showed up at my door. He’s nineteen.” “One of your one night stands come to fruition?” She laughed. “Yes.” Mark smiled at her. “I’m happy for you.” “Then you’ve forgiven me?” “Ages ago.” “Thank you.” Mark didn’t know why that was so important to him. In a swift movement, Sharon grabbed his left hand and brought it to eye level. “You wear a wedding ring?” “Yes.” “I thought California denied the existence of gay marriage.” “We were married before Proposition Eight.” Mark took back his hand. “Poor Jack.” She laughed, but it wasn’t malicious. “He’s married as well.” “To a man?” “Yes.” Mark studied her expression. Not an ounce of anger was in it. Yes, she had truly forgiven him. “Tell him I said hi. I used to stay in contact with him, but after I met Brent, I stopped.” Sharon looked back at the house. When Mark did as well, he noticed Sharon’s father standing at the screen door watching. “I should let you go.” Mark looked aside from Ted Tice’s direction for fear of the glare he would receive. “Happy Christmas, Sharon, love.” She stood away from the van and embraced him. “You too.” It felt strange reaching for her around such a huge bump. “Blimey, it’s as if you have twins in there.” “I do,” she giggled. “Do you?” He stood back to admire her. “I’m thrilled for you.” “Two boys.” She touched herself as if feeling for them. “Check it out.” When she clasped Mark’s wrist and pressed his palm to her stomach, Mark was delighted. “Oh! I felt it!” Tears rushed to his eyes. “Cool, huh? They’re really active. I have two sports stars in there.” “Very nice.” Mark was intrigued. 54

Packing Heat “I picture you and Jack in your baseball uniforms.” “Do you?” Mark brushed away a tear before it fell. “Yeah. Don’t tell Brent.” She winked. “It was nice to see you, Mark.” “You too, love.” Mark began to back up towards his car. “And I love the Christmas cologne campaign. You look fabulous on those billboards.” “No. I’m old.” Mark pretended to hide behind his hands. “Not older, better.” She waved. “Bye.” “Bye, Sharon. Give my love to Katie and your mom.” He watched her walk to the front door. Ted opened it, allowing her in. Before Mark had to deal with a disparaging word from the man, he jogged across the street to his car and sat down behind the wheel. “That’s where I would be. With my wife and two new sons on the way at Christmas.” Well, that takes care of the Christmas that shall never come to pass. Where does that leave me now? “Lost.” Mark checked the side mirror and drove down the street. Steve rubbed his forehead. “No, I didn’t intend to send it. It was a mistake.” “Wow. A fabulous one. Thanks, Steve.” “Delete it, Hunter.” “Uh, yeah. Soon.” “Bye.” Steve disconnected the line and tossed his cell phone aside. “I fucked up, I fucked up, I fucked up.” He paced, wrung his hands and missed Mark. Mark had his mobile phone shut off. When Steve called it went immediately to voicemail. The phone rang again. Steve looked at the caller ID and ignored it, seeing it was yet another recipient of his errant email. He became restless waiting for Mark to show up. Though he wanted to go for a run, he didn’t want to exercise without his partner. “Screw this.” He pocketed his wallet and keys and armed the house via the keypad as he stood in the garage. After putting in the security code, Steve used the remote button and elevated the garage door. He didn’t know where he was headed but if he didn’t get out of the house he’d go nuts. Starting the engine on the Mercedes, Steve backed out and waited for the garage door to close before he left. He kept an eye out for approaching cars, making sure Mark didn’t pass him on his way home. Steve finally stopped searching for him when he left the neighborhood. 55

G.A. Hauser In twenty minutes he pulled into the driveway at his parents’ house. His sister Laura’s car was there. Steve strutted up the front walkway and tried the door. “Hello?” he called as he entered. The aroma of cooking food and baking filled his senses. “Hey, Steve.” Laura’s husband Barry appeared. “Hi.” Steve shook his hand. “Come in. Want a beer?” “Sure.” Steve followed him. “Steve?” Steve’s mother, Susan, looked surprised to see him. “Were we expecting you?” Steve reached down to pick up his niece, Chloe, as she stood with a bottle hanging out of her mouth near Laura. “Nope.” Steve kissed Chloe’s cheek. “Hello, sweetie.” “Where’s Mark?” Laura asked, peeking around the corner of the wall. “Doing errands.” Chloe began to fuss, so Steve set her back on her feet again. He took the beer Barry was handing him. “Is Dad here?” “He’s in the bathroom.” Susan continued what she was doing, baking cookies. Steve could see several prepared dishes on the stove either cooking or getting ready to be baked. “Another church sale?” Steve sat on one of the stools at the counter and reached for cookie dough to sample. “Wash your hands!” Susan smacked his arm away. “Geez!” Steve reacted to the hit and drank his beer. Laura used a spoon and scooped a small amount, handing it to him. “Thank you, Laura,” Steve said, staring at his mother in annoyance when he did. Chloe began making noise and reaching up to Laura to be held. Steve finished the spoonful of cookie dough and heard his father entering the room. “Steve?” “Hi, Dad.” “Are you staying for Sunday dinner?” Dick tossed the newspaper on the kitchen table. “Uh…” Steve checked his mother’s reaction. She was ignoring him, taking the cookie sheet and putting it into the oven. When she opened the oven door, Steve got a glimpse of a large turkey on the bottom shelf. “I hadn’t planned on it.” 56

Packing Heat “Did you and Mark fight?” Laura bounced Chloe in her arms. “No.” Steve wanted to ask her if she had checked her cell phone recently. “Laura, do you have one of those mobile phones with a picture screen?” “Don’t I wish. It’s on my Christmas list.” “Oh. Good.” It hadn’t occurred to Steve that some of the numbers on his directory would not receive the photo. But it was a comfort to know. “Why?” Barry asked, sitting on the stool beside Steve. “Just curious.” Steve noticed his mother seemed pinched. “You okay, Mom?” She didn’t answer. Steve checked with Laura for a reason. Laura tilted her head at Steve to leave the room with her. “Oh, what do you know, Chloe needs changing.” Steve made a face at Barry at how obvious the excuse was. Barry shrugged innocently. Leaving his beer behind, Steve trailed Laura to the living room where an enormous tree was lit up with lights and tinsel. “What now?” “She’s upset you didn’t make any plans to see us this holiday.” Laura held Chloe near the tree. The bottle fell out of Chloe’s mouth as she reached for the baubles and made noises. Steve picked it up and replied, “I didn’t think they wanted me and Mark around.” “Are you kidding? After what they did to help find Alex that night he vanished?” Laura shot him a sour expression. “Mom feels like you’re neglecting us, not the other way around.” “I know. Sorry. It’s been nuts. We had the office party last week, our own friends over last night…” “Whatever. You wanted to know why she’s pissed.” Laura sniffed. “She did go. I have to change her.” Steve backed up quickly, hands held high in revulsion. “Better you than me.” “You say that every time I have to do something with the baby. And you sound like Barry. You two are real paternal.” Laura laughed and left the room. Steve thought about Alex. “Hey, I like my son. I just wouldn’t want to wipe his ass.” He heard her giggling reply and smiled. Heading back to the kitchen, Steve set the baby bottle on the counter and 57

G.A. Hauser propped himself up on the stool again. “What night do you want me, Mark and Alex here?” Susan spun around and met his gaze. “Do you have time in your busy schedule for your family?” “Sure.” Steve noticed his father was enthralled with the newspaper, while Barry drank his beer beside him at the counter. “Then stay for dinner now. Call Mark and Alex.” Steve checked the time and wondered if he could even get in touch with Mark. “That’s a little short notice.” Susan made a snorting nose and gave him her back once more. “It’s the Sunday before Christmas. If it’s short notice, don’t blame me.” “Call Mark,” Barry suggested. Crap. Steve removed his mobile phone from his pocket. He checked to see if Mark had left a message, then texted him one. Hey. It’s me. I’m at Mom’s. She wants us to eat here. Like now. u busy? He hit the send button and then dialed Alex’s number and put the phone to his ear. “Hey, Steve.” “Hi, Alex. What are you doing?” “Playing…” At the tone of Alex’s voice, Steve left the room so he could speak without being overheard. “Look, can you come to my parents’ house for a Sunday dinner?” “When?” “Now?” “Now? I’m lying naked with Oliver. You know, post coital stuff.” “Alex,” Steve moaned and rubbed the bridge of his nose between his index finger and thumb. “Why now?” “I screwed up.” “Is Dad with you?” “No. Not yet.” “Wow, are you having a bad day.” “Tell me about it. I’m about to get on Mom’s shit list too if you and Mark don’t come through.” 58

Packing Heat “Where the heck do they live? I haven’t even been there yet.” “You have a pen?” Steve asked, seeing his sister and Chloe returning from the bedroom. She seemed to sense he was preoccupied with his call and continued walking to the kitchen. “Shoot.” Steve told Alex directions. “Am I bringing Oliver?” “Sure. If you guys behave and don’t do anything in front of my family.” “What? Oh, come on, Steve. I’m not going to put on the straight act.” “Alex, please. Humor me.” Steve took a paranoid look over his shoulder. “Whatever.” “Thank you.” “You owe me.” “Whatever…” Steve mimicked and hung up. The phone buzzed in his hand. Mark’s message in return was; on my way. “Yes.” Steve cheered silently. “Love you, babe.” He stuffed the phone into his pocket and said, “They’re on their way, Mom,” as he entered the kitchen. Mark was more than a little surprised to learn Steve had gone to his parents’ home during his absence. It had been a long struggle for Steve to restore trust and love with his family, particularly with his father. Years ago Dick Miller was a police sergeant with the LAPD and had a problem with Steve dating Sonja Knight, a woman of color. Mark knew they had never completely accepted his and Steve’s marriage, but hoped at least there would be no animosity. If for no other reason, for Alex’s sake. Alex called Steve’s parents grandma and grandpa teasingly but most times he referred to them by their first names. Weren’t Susan and Dick Alex’s grandparents? Mark knew if he were a woman, they would be. “The double-standard strikes again.” Mark parked his car out front and noticed a few cars lined up on the driveway, one of them Steve’s Mercedes. Before he got too close to the front door, Mark heard a car horn. Alex’s red Mustang glided behind his TVR on the street. Alex was on his own which surprised Mark. “Where’s Oliver?” Mark asked as Alex drew closer. “We were supposed to go over to his grandparents’ house for dinner. I 59

G.A. Hauser convinced him I should come here and he should go there. Why extend the torture?” “Torture?” Mark put his arm around Alex’s shoulder as they walked to the front door. “Seeing grandparents is torture?” “Yes. We were having hot sex. What would you prefer doing?” “Holidays are the time for family.” “Is that right?” Alex stopped short. “How come Grandma Leslie’s not on our visit list this year then?” “I told you she’s in London.” Mark rang the bell. “In London. From before Thanksgiving until after New Year? You’re full of crap.” “Why would I lie?” “Because you can’t stand her.” Steve opened the door. “Hey, boys.” “It’s not true. I don’t hate my mother.” Mark stepped into the living room, instantly hit with the aroma of a banquet meal cooking. “Yes, you do.” Alex looked at the tree. “Anything under there for me?” “Don’t hold your breath.” Steve directed them to the kitchen. “Where’s Oliver?” Steve asked. “You said we couldn’t play. So?” Alex stopped short at the threshold of the kitchen. “What’s wrong?” Mark asked. “Go.” “Professor Wolinski?” Alex pointed to Barry. “Alex?” “You two know each other?” Steve encouraged Mark and Alex to keep walking into the room. “Yeah, he lectured for my English lit class.” “Did you?” Mark made a move toward Steve’s mom. “Hello, love, nice to see you again.” “You too, Mark.” Susan hugged him. “Yes. I did a couple of lectures as a guest.” Barry appeared shy about it. “Hi, Mark, Alex.” Laura waved. “Hello, Laura. How’s little Chloe-angel?” Mark reached to take the child out of her arms. “Still can’t say much but she’s walking well.” 60

Packing Heat Mark made smooching noises against the child’s cheek, making her squirm. “Hi, Alexander.” Dick approached them. “Hi, Dick.” Alex hugged him. “Gone fishing lately?” “Why can’t you call him grandpa?” Steve asked. Mark blinked. “You never said that before, Steven. Do you want Alex to call your parents by that?” “Yes! He’s their grandson.” Since Mark had identical thoughts he quickly checked for Susan and Dick’s reaction. They appeared confused at best. “I don’t mind him calling me Dick.” “I could call you grandma and grandpa.” Alex shrugged. “I have done it before.” “Please?” Steve implored. “It means that much to you?” Susan asked, still in the midst of preparing the meal. Mark sat Chloe in his arms and bounced her gently, observing the conversation. It did make sense. After all, he was married to Steve. Laura made light of the awkwardness. “You won’t hear it from Chloe for years. So why not?” “Okay.” Alex shrugged. “Hey, Grandma, what’s to eat? I’m starving.” Susan tugged on Alex’s long hair playfully. “You’re a rascal. What do you want?” “Anything. Everything smells really good.” Alex rubbed his belly. “You hungry?” Mark asked Chloe. She stared at him with wide blue eyes. “I bet you’re still on baby food.” “She eats a mix now.” Laura smiled. “You’re a natural with children, Mark.” “Sharon is pregnant with twins,” Mark said before he thought it through. The room went quiet instantly. Appearing upset, Steve asked, “How do you know? Have you spoken to her?” “Uh.” Mark scanned the occupants. Only Alex was looking at him, smirking as if he’d gotten himself in trouble again. “Mark?” Steve asked more forcefully. “Dick, could you take the turkey out of the oven for me?” Susan handed 61

G.A. Hauser her husband oven mitts. “Never mind,” Mark said, shaking his head, hoping Steve wouldn’t push the issue further until they were in private. Chloe let out a loud scream and Mark blinked and held her tightly. “What on earth?” Barry laughed. “She’s got one hell of a set of lungs.” “I need to feed her and then put her down for a nap.” Mark said, “I can help.” “You don’t have to.” Laura picked up a highchair that was off to the side of the room and brought it closer to the counter. “I insist.” “She’ll cover you in baby food. At least change your nice top.” “Here.” Susan handed Mark an apron. Once Laura had the chair in position, Mark sat Chloe in it, taking the apron. Alex covered his laughter and shook his head. “You’re pathetic, Dad.” “Why?” He tied the strings together around his waist. “A man likes children and he’s pathetic?” “I think it’s sweet.” Susan snapped a bib around Chloe’s neck as Laura made a bowl of food up. Mark glanced at Alex and noticed he had his phone held aloft, taking his picture. “Stop it.” “Why? It’s a little different from the last one. Maybe this one will act as the equalizer.” “Alex,” Steve moaned. “What last one?” Laura handed Mark a bowl of mashed food and a plastic spoon. “Never mind.” Mark scooted a stool close to Chloe. “Open wide.” He waved the food in front of her. “Is that what you tell Steve, Dad?” Alex said. “Alex!” Steve whacked Alex’s shoulder. “Steven!” Susan reacted to the swat. “Don’t hit your son.” “Owie!” Alex played it up, holding his arm and pouting out his lower lip. “He hit me, Grandma.” “Now you know why we don’t come here often,” Mark said as he used the spoon to scoop up missed food around Chloe’s mouth. “We’re an assault to your sensibilities.” 62

Packing Heat “We’re not. Alex on the other hand.” Steve grumbled. Alex leaned over the highchair. “Ew. That stuff looks like shit.” “That’s the same way it comes out,” Barry replied. “Nasty.” Mark exhaled a loud sigh. “Come on, lads. I’m trying to get her to eat it. Don’t make me gag.” When Mark glanced up he spotted Laura with a digital camera taking his picture. “Can’t resist, eh?” “I can’t. You look adorable in that apron, all domestic goddess-like.” She took a few angles. “And it’s such a contrast to your sexy cologne ads.” Mark glanced at Steve who was looking at his father. At the context of the conversation, Mark didn’t even dare see what Dick’s expression was. “Sexy cologne ads?” Susan removed the cookie tray from the oven. “Oh, that smells good!” Alex moaned. Barry answered Susan, “Yes, for Dangereux Cologne. Haven’t you seen him on all the billboards?” “How about a class on sex selling, Professor?” Alex asked Barry. “Next time.” Barry smiled. “Dick,” Susan said, “Slice the turkey up. Poor Alex is starving.” Mark watched as everyone shifted around the center island where the turkey had been resting. He caught Dick’s eye and felt his stomach flip. Lord knew what that man really thought. If ex-Sgt. Miller objected to Steve dating a woman of color, having his son marry a man must have killed him. Chloe banged her fist on the highchair tray and yelled. “Oh!” Mark woke up. “Here you go, missy!” He fed Chloe another mouthful. “Laura, she’s polishing this off quickly.” “I know.” Laura set another prepared bowl on the counter next to Mark. “She eats more than you do, Dad.” Mark met Alex’s eye. “Enough.” “Just kidding.” Alex pulled Mark’s hair back into a ponytail. “I’ll take over, Mark,” Laura said, “Mom’s about ready to serve.” “Can I help?” Steve asked. “Yes.” Susan handed him a ceramic bowl of stuffing. “Take this out to the dining room table. And set up three more place settings.” “Alex, give me a hand.” Steve carried the food out of the room. Mark scraped up the last spoonful of food and fed it to Chloe. She gobbled it down quickly. “What a good girl you are.” Mark sat back. 63

G.A. Hauser “Thanks, Mark.” Laura smiled. “My pleasure.” “Did you and Steve ever talk about having children together?” Mark stood, placing the empty plastic bowl in the sink, noticing everyone in the kitchen listening. Untying the apron, Mark shook his head. “No. I think Alex is enough. Believe me, he’s a handful.” He took it off and folded it, draping it over a chair, then washed his hands at the sink. “But you missed all the good baby-things.” Laura took Mark’s place beside Chloe and fed her. Barry said, “No way. He has it made. I can’t do anything with my daughter until she’s older. It’s a waste.” “Where do you want the turkey, Susan?” Dick asked. She placed a platter on the counter next to him. Mark became distracted as Dick used a two-prong fork to transfer the meat to the plate. “I’m too old for infants.” “No you’re not,” Susan said. “How old are you, thirty?” Mark smiled at her. “Thank you for the compliment, love. No. I’m thirtyseven.” Mark cringed. “That’s not old, Mark,” Barry said, “Many couples wait until their thirties to have kids.” “No. I don’t want infants. It’s more fun to play and then leave them to their parents. Like grandparents do.” Mark met Dick’s eye, tried to coax a smile from him and failed. “What else, Mom?” Steve stood at the doorway. She spun back to the oven for more food. “Take the potatoes and green bean casserole.” “Alex, grab that one.” Steve tilted his head. Mark knew Susan was busy, so he used a spatula to take the baked cookies off the tray and set them on wire racks. “I never baked cookies with me mum.” “No?” Susan stood behind Mark. “No. She wasn’t the cookie-baking type.” Susan rubbed Mark’s back gently. Looking over his shoulder, Mark smiled at her. “Steven’s very lucky.” Dick snorted in reply. “No?” Mark asked him. 64

Packing Heat “He’d tell you he had a shitty childhood.” Dick held up the platter filled with turkey meat. “No,” Mark said, “He doesn’t say that at all.” Susan took the plate from Dick and left the room. “I bet he told you I was a horrible father.” Mark blinked at Dick’s comment. Barry quickly left the room and Laura pretended to be occupied feeding Chloe. Closing the gap between him and Dick, Mark said softly, “He never said he had a terrible childhood.” Dick smiled ironically. “Just a crappy adulthood?” “You went through a rough patch. It’s not uncommon.” Mark studied the man’s gray hair and deeply set jowls. “He’s here enjoying the holiday with you. That’s at least something.” “We never see him.” “I’m not holding him back. Honest.” “You’re not the one I blame.” “What’s going on?” Steve asked. “The food is on the table.” Mark gave Steve an anxious look and approached him. As he past he whispered, “Go be nice to your dad.” Turning back, seeing Steve approach his father, Mark entered the dining room. Alex was sneaking chunks of turkey as he waited. “Anyone want a beer?” Barry asked. “Yes,” Alex replied quickly. “No.” Mark shook his head. “He’s driving. No beer.” “I forgot.” Alex smiled sheepishly. “One for you, Mark?” “No, thank you, Barry.” Mark sat next to his son at the table. “Stop eating. Wait until everyone’s joined us.” “What’s taking so long?” “Be patient.” Mark brushed Alex’s hair to lay behind his shoulder. Susan placed a gravy boat on the table and left again. “Do you love me, Alex?” Alex met his eyes instantly. “You know I do.” “You tease me quite a lot.” Mark glanced at the doorway to see how long they would be alone. “I tease you because I love you.” 65

G.A. Hauser “That’s the wrong way to show your love.” “What am I supposed to do? Kiss you?” Alex grinned. “Yes.” Mark pointed to his cheek. Alex pecked it. “Okay?” “Better.” Mark caught Susan’s eye as she came in with a basket of rolls. “You two are so much alike.” She stood across the table from them. “Yes. Two peas in a pod.” Mark hugged Alex. “We ready to go?” Steve asked, bringing sweet potatoes in with him. “Yes.” Susan called everyone into the room. “We need to say grace first.” Mark caught Alex’s roll of the eyes. Mark mouthed silently, ‘behave’, nudging Alex to stand up. Laura held Chloe in her arms as Susan said, “Thanks to our Lord, Jesus Christ, for offering us this wonderful meal with our family at Christmas.” Dick mumbled, “Amen.” “Right,” Laura said, “Let me put her down for a nap so I can eat.” Mark waited for Susan to sit down before he did. Steve was on one side of him, Alex on the other. “Should we wait for Laura?” “No. Dig in.” Steve handed Mark the potatoes. Mark noticed Alex watching him. “Why don’t you start with the turkey?” Alex seemed to snap out of his stupor and piled the food high on his plate. Mark glanced around the table and spotted Barry quickly averting his gaze. If you embarrass me, Alexander, I shall be furious with you. The shuffling and passing of plates began as Laura joined them. “She’s out like a light.” “Good. You can eat in peace.” Barry handed her the turkey platter. “Do you have enough, Mark?” Forcing his expression to remain calm, Mark had taken more than he could eat in an effort to stem off comments about his eating habits. “Yes. Thank you.” “He—” The moment Alex geared up for a jab, Mark elbowed him in the ribs. “Ouch!” Alex winced. “Grandma, Dad’s hitting me now.” “Stop it.” Susan handed off the gravy boat. “Stop it,” both Mark and Alex warned each other simultaneously. When they realized it, they chuckled. “Now you see why I don’t come over more often.” Steve devoured the 66

Packing Heat food. “No, I don’t.” Dick appeared very serious. “You like us, Dick?” Mark asked sweetly. “Sure. I like you. Why shouldn’t I like you?” “Because my dad’s getting it up the—” “Alex!” Steve cut him off. “What?” Alex splayed out his hands. “First you want me to be honest, then you want me to lie. Which is it?” “Learn when to shut your mouth.” Mark poked at his food. A ringtone sounded. Mark gave Steve a pained look. Alex took out his mobile phone and read it, smiling. “Shut that off during dinner.” Steve pointed at Alex with his fork. “It’s Oliver.” “We assumed as much,” Mark said. “Look. Angel is in an apron too.” Alex showed Mark the tiny screen. “Two dorky dads.” Laura chuckled. “I think it’s sweet.” Mark ate a bite of his food and glanced at Alex. “Put that away.” “In a minute.” “It’s rude. Put it away.” Mark waited as Alex texted using his thumbs. Mark turned to his husband for help. “Steven.” “Alexander,” Steve admonished. “Yeah, yeah…” Alex kept texting. Susan laughed. “It’s amusing seeing Steve going through the struggles of fatherhood. I hate to admit.” “And you missed out on the terrible twos,” Barry said. “Instead we have the terrible nineteens.” Steve stuffed a piece of bread in his mouth. Alex laughed as he continued his written conversation over the phone. “Please, Alex.” Mark tried to be calm. “I’ll make you a deal, Dad. You finish your plate and I’ll stop texting Oliver.” Fury instantly washed over Mark’s emotions. 67

G.A. Hauser “That’s it.” Steve threw down his fork and stood, grabbing Alex’s shirt on the pretext of taking him for a private lecture. “Okay! Okay.” Alex closed down his phone and stuffed it into his pocket. “I love it,” Dick said, wiping his mouth with a napkin. Steve sat back down. “Nice, isn’t it, Dad?” Steve resumed eating. “Seeing me get what I deserve?” “You got it!” Dick laughed. Mark caught Dick’s wink and smiled at him. Mark waved goodbye to Susan and Dick as they stood at the door. He followed Steve and Alex to their cars. “Don’t speed.” “Yes, Officer Miller.” Alex stuck his tongue in his cheek. “And don’t text and drive either.” “I won’t.” Alex put his hands on top of his car. “Pat me down?” “Alex!” Mark spun around to see if anyone was still witnessing their departure. Luckily the front door had closed. “What?” Alex looked at Mark from over his shoulder. “Isn’t that your favorite fantasy?” “Are you reading my diary again?” Mark gasped. “You don’t lock it up.” “Diary?” Steve appeared perplexed. “Nothing. Go.” Mark pushed Steve towards his Mercedes. “You keep a diary?” “Man, Steve, you are so oblivious.” Alex opened the driver’s side door and sat down. “It’s right next to his secret stash of valiums.” Shuddering at the information Alex revealed to Steve, Mark closed his eyes to calm down. The notion that Alex was searching his drawers was an issue Mark was going to confront, at home. Before Alex drove off, Mark leaned into his car. “Why do you torment me?” “I’m not tormenting you. You’re too sensitive.” “You should not be going through my personal things.” “Why not? You go through mine.” “I do not!” Mark felt indignant. 68

Packing Heat “Someone does.” Alex looked at Steve. Mark glanced at Steve and noticed he didn’t deny it. “Whatever. Alex, are you coming home?” “No. I’m going to Oliver’s house.” “Overnight?” “I don’t know. Why? Are Jack and Adam coming over for another chance at coating you in their jizz?” When Mark cringed, Alex said, “See? You’re too sensitive. Do you have any idea how much I would love to be lying on a bed with Jack, Adam and Steve jacking off over me?” “Go.” Mark stood back. “I’d take pictures too, and send them around the planet.” Alex stuck his key in the ignition. “I’d tell everyone I was so hot men would kill to fuck me. Like they do for you, Dad.” “Alex!” Mark wished he knew how to cope with his son. “What now?” Steve stormed over. “Bye.” Alex closed the car door and drove off. As the Mustang vanished, Mark rubbed his face tiredly. “When is a child too old to live home?” “It’s better he does. Can you imagine him on his own?” Steve walked Mark to his car. “I’m tired.” “Will you be okay to drive?” “Yes.” Mark didn’t want to tell Steve he had taken one of his ‘secret’ valiums earlier. Knowing Steve, he wouldn’t let Mark drive, and probably he shouldn’t have. “Meet you home.” Nodding, Mark kissed Steve quickly and climbed into his car. When he started it, his mobile phone rang. Mark used the hands-free mode as he merged into the traffic lane. With an earpiece in his ear, Mark said, “Hello, Jackie.” “Hi, sweetheart. You okay?” “Yes. How are you and Adam?” “Good. We got some last minute shopping done.” “You’re brave. I used the internet for everything.” “Well, I don’t get mobbed for autographs when I show up at stores.” 69

G.A. Hauser “No one knows me. Don’t be silly.” Mark stopped for a signal seeing Steve in his rear view mirror. “Are you home?” “No. We had Sunday dinner at Steve’s parents’ house.” “Really? I didn’t think Steve was on good terms with his dad.” “They did well. Alex, however.” Mark continued through the intersection when the light changed. “Well, that’s Alex.” “Yes. Indeed.” “You want us to stop by?” “Always.” Mark smiled. “See ya later.” “Bye, love.” Mark disconnected the line and exhaled. He wanted to nap but knew naps never happened in reality. He turned into the driveway and realized Steve had already used his remote to elevate the garage door. Mark waited for it to stop moving before he pulled in. As he shut off the sports car, Steve parked next to him in the two-car garage. Mark disconnected the earpiece and took his phone with him. He met Steve near the door to the kitchen. “Use the code.” Mark nodded and stood before the keypad, pushing buttons. While he did, Steve smoothed his hands around Mark’s hips to his crotch. “Who were you on the phone with?” “Jack.” Mark opened the door and toed off his shoes as he came in. “And?” “He and Adam are coming by later. You mind?” “Nope. I never mind those guys.” “Good.” Mark headed up to their bedroom. “When did you speak to Sharon?” Halting in his tracks, Mark said, “You certainly are a pitbull.” Steve cupped Mark’s ass and persuaded him to continue. “Just about certain things. Don’t get me started on the valiums.” “Groan!” Mark knew he was in for grief and kept walking. “I stopped in front of her parents’ home and it was just luck that she was arriving…with her 70

Packing Heat husband.” “Oh?” Steve closed their bedroom door behind them. “Yes. She’s about to pop. I couldn’t believe how large she was.” Steve began unbuttoning Mark’s shirt. “Jealous of her husband?” “No. Should I be?” “I just can see the way you are with kids. That’s all.” “I have my hands full with Alexander. I don’t want another.” “Can I tell you what I have my hands full with?” Seeing Steve’s devilish grin, Mark said, “My cock.” “Mm.” Steve dropped to his knees and chewed on Mark’s zipper flap. Mark peered back at his bed wistfully. The only way he would get rest is if Steve came and fell asleep beside him. He held Steve’s shoulders and shuffled backwards to the bed. Mark opened his pants and dragged them down his legs. “Yes.” Steve nuzzled into Mark’s balls. “Oh, you smell good, Richfield,” he moaned as if he were in pain. “Let me get horizontal.” Steve hopped to his feet and went for the nightstand. “We need more supplies. Using three rubbers at a time when Adam and Jack are around makes them go fast.” “I can ring Jack to pick some up on his way.” Mark reached for the phone. “Later.” Steve undressed quickly and reclined beside Mark. “Tell me you love me.” “I love you.” Steve cupped Mark’s genitals and massaged them. “I’m too tired to come, love. Let me do you.” “Too tired?” Steve looked concerned. “Yes. No worries.” Mark caressed his face. “I want to please you.” “You said Jack and Adam were coming. Maybe we should save your ass for later.” “All right.” Mark was about to inch down and get into position between Steve’s legs when Steve used both hands to leap over Mark’s chest, sitting on it. “Where do you get your energy after a big meal?” Mark gaped at him as Steve pointed his erection at Mark’s mouth. “You get me hot. I visualized you sucking my cock all through dinner.” “Be quiet.” Mark chuckled. “I did.” Steve ran the tip of his dick over Mark’s lips. 71

G.A. Hauser “As hard as a teenager,” Mark said, “You really have amazing stamina.” “Stop pretending you’re old.” Steve poked his cock against Mark’s mouth. “Open wide...” Steve sang like Mark had with his niece. “Do you intend to just fuck my mouth?” “Yes.” “I could give you a good licking. You know. Everywhere.” “Next time.” Mark reached over Steve’s legs and held onto the base of his cock, parting his lips. The moment Mark allowed Steve access, Steve thrust in. Mark wasn’t prepared for the force and blinked. “Steven!” “Sorry. You get me nuts.” Steve seemed to struggle to hold back. “I don’t mind. Just let me begin easy. All right?” Mark ran his fingers over Steve’s length, feeling him pulsate. “Sitting on you like this makes me want to stuff your cock in my ass.” “Really? You haven’t played bottom in ages.” Mark licked the tip of Steve’s dick. “You’re too big.” Steve reached behind him and stroked Mark. “I prefer it the way we do it.” “I know.” Steve propped his hands beside Mark’s head on the pillow. “Suck it.” “Yes, Officer.” Mark drew Steve’s cock into his mouth. As he worked him, Mark felt Steve’s momentum gain. Though he was pinned under Steve’s weight, Mark didn’t mind. He loved sucking him. Sucking cock, period. “Let me know if I get too rough.” Mark nodded and increased his suction. It didn’t take long for Steve to go into machine-mode. In a trance, Mark closed his eyes and delighted in Steve’s familiar scent, taste and whimpers of euphoria. Mark squeezed the base of Steve’s cock tightly, taking him deep into his throat. Steve elevated his hips and pumped, his balls slapping Mark’s chest and neck. “Yes. Mark! Holy shit.” Mark tasted the saltiness of a spurt of pre-cum. He cupped Steve’s sack and rubbed hard friction into his root to his ass. To Mark’s pleasure, throbbing began to rock Steve’s length. “Augh! Richfield, mother-fucker!” The pulsating became stronger and Mark’s mouth filled with Steve’s cum. He swallowed down the first load to have another hit his tongue. “Don’t stop,” 72

Packing Heat Steve breathed. Mark had no intention. He held Steve’s cock in his mouth, using his tongue in the slit and feeling pulsating aftershocks as Steve recovered. Mark poked his finger into Steve’s rim, felt another contraction of cock muscles in his mouth and hummed in bliss. “My God, Mark Antonious. That mouth of yours…” Mark removed Steve’s cock from his lips with a loud ‘pop’ and grinned at him. “That was a good one.” “Holy shit.” Steve had beads of perspiration on his top lip. He collapsed next to Mark, draping an arm and leg over Mark’s body. “Wake me in ten hours.” Mark smiled and rubbed Steve’s back affectionately. “Rest, my prince.” “You sure I can’t do you?” Mark could tell Steve was nearly out of it. “I’m fine.” “Good.” Pressing his nose into Steve’s skin, Mark closed his eyes and tried to sleep.

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Chapter Four Mark opened his eyes. He was disoriented and couldn’t remember what day it was. Raising his head off the pillow, Mark found his son asleep between he and Steve. “What the bloody hell?” Mark leaned up on his elbows to get a better look. Alex was fully clothed, on top of the blankets, spooning Steve who was naked, underneath. In the dimness of the room Mark read the clock, it was nearing five pm. “What are you doing here, Alex?” Mark poked him. “Sleeping,” he mumbled. “I thought you were staying at Oliver’s tonight.” “We had a fight.” Mark noticed Steve stirring, heard him purr sensually and finally he blinked. “Alex?” Steve shrank back. “Mm. Stop moving. You’re cozy.” Alex wriggled against Steve. “What are you doing in bed with us?” Steve nudged Alex off and dragged the blanket up to his chest. “I was sleeping. Come on, five more minutes.” “What did you and Oliver fight about?” Mark asked. “Nothing.” Alex curled up in a ball. Steve said, “You guys never fight. What did you do?” “Why do you think it was me?” Mark shook his head. “Because it’s always you.” As if he were indignant, Alex rolled over and faced Mark. “You’re mean.” “Just tell us.” Steve nudged Alex. “It was no big deal!” Alex hid in Mark’s hair. Mark snaked his arm around Alex’s shoulder and held him. “Tell me.” “Fine.” Alex huffed out a loud blast of air. “Remember when I

Packing Heat accidentally sent your photo to my contact list?” Mark cringed and he squeezed Alex when he did. “Well…” Alex burrowed deeper under Mark’s mane, into his pillow. “Alexander…” Steve sounded impatient. “I told everyone it was me. Oliver got pissed off.” “You did what?” Mark tried to back up to look at Alex, but Alex had a tight hold on him. “I told everyone the photo was me.” “Why would you do that?” Steve asked. “’Cuz.” “Cause why?” “Let go.” Mark found the situation intolerable and wrenched free. He staggered off the bed and entered his walk-in closet to get dressed. “Why, Alex?” Steve prodded. Mark stepped into his jeans, furious with his son. Once he had them on, he stood near the bed. “What the devil is wrong with you?” “I just thought it was cool.” “It’s not cool. Nothing about it is ‘cool’.” Mark removed a black v-neck pullover shirt from his drawer. “Why would you degrade yourself like that?” Alex sat up against the headboard. “Degrade? Are you kidding? How can I degrade myself with a body like yours covered in man-spunk?” “Mark, hand me a pair of briefs.” Steve reached out to him. He grabbed a pair out of Steve’s end of the dresser and tossed it to him, seeing Steve put them on under the blanket in an effort to prevent Alex from seeing him naked. “You are coming to counseling.” Mark shook his finger at him. “No way.” Alex’s attention was drawn the minute Steve got out of bed. “Why do you cover up in front of me?” “Are you kidding?” Steve picked his jeans up from the floor and put them on. “Hey, I’m the wounded party here.” Alex pouted. “My boyfriend is mad at me.” “Do you blame him?” Mark crossed his arms. “Yes! If he had a lewd picture of Angel and said it was him, I’d be proud, not upset.” 75

G.A. Hauser “Bloody hell, Steven.” Mark threw up his hands. “What now?” “I think counseling is a good idea.” Steve vanished into the bathroom. “No!” Alex sat up in bed. “Just give me a valium and call it even.” “Don’t you go near my medications.” “Why do you hide them? Doesn’t Steve have a right to know you take happy pills?” The doorbell rang. Mark ran his hand through his hair. “This discussion is far from over.” “Says you.” Alex flopped back onto the bed. Mark jogged to the front door, opening it. Jack and Adam were there, holding bags of Chinese take-away food. “Bad timing?” Jack stared at Mark. “No. Come in.” Mark stepped back and ran his hand through his hair selfconsciously. “Do I look a mess?” “Like you just got out of bed.” Adam made a sexy moan and winked. “Yes. Well.” Mark followed Jack to the kitchen where Jack placed the bags of food on the counter and took off his leather jacket. “Had a bit of a nap, but Alex made it into a debate.” “About what?” Jack removed the white cartons and lined them up. “Let me guess,” Adam said, “He wants to move in with Oliver.” “I wish it were that simple.” Mark took plates out of the cabinet and eyed the amount of food. “I’m still full from Steve’s mum’s feast.” “That was hours ago.” Jack checked his watch. “Hi.” Steve entered the room. “Smells good. Thanks, guys.” “What’s Alex doing?” Mark asked, caressing Steve’s hair affectionately. “Nothing other than ratting you out.” Steve opened one of the white boxes of food and sniffed it. “He didn’t.” Mark tried not to be enraged but it wasn’t easy. “I need to kill him.” “What did you do now, Mark Antonious?” Jack used chopsticks to eat a shrimp from out of a container. “Did you know Mark kept a journal?” Steve scooped white rice onto a plate. “There’s beer in the fridge, Jack.” “How many?” Jack opened the refrigerator door. Adam and Steve raised their hands. “Yes, I knew Mark kept a journal.” 76

Packing Heat “Jackie!” Mark scolded. “What?” Jack used an opener to take off the beer caps and set them on the counter in front of each man. “You have since college.” “No!” Steve gasped. “How many volumes do you have?” “Is nothing sacred?” Mark pouted. “You could sell those books, Mark.” Adam filled a plate for Mark as well as himself. “If you ever want to, let me know. I have a friend in the publishing biz.” “Mark,” Jack said after he ate a mouthful of food. “You kept the diary on your nightstand. It wasn’t a mystery.” “Did you read it?” “No. Never have.” Jack pulled up a stool to sit at the counter. “It’s juicy,” Alex said as he came in. “Mm. Food.” “You shouldn’t read private journals, Alex.” Adam joined Jack and began eating with chopsticks. “Sit.” Steve pointed at the open stool between him and Mark’s plate. “I’m still full.” Mark sat down. “That was nearly five hours ago.” Steve slid the plate in front of Mark. “I’ll eat his.” Alex hovered behind him. “There’s plenty for everyone. Make up your own, Alex.” Adam pointed to the cabinet. “What kind of shit do you write in it, Mark?” Steve held a piece of chicken in front of Mark and Mark ate it reluctantly. “Private things, that’s what.” “About me?” Mark caught his son’s eye. “Yes, Steve,” Alex replied, filling his dish. “Good things?” Steve asked nervously. “Nasty things.” Alex gobbled the fried rice. “Things he wished you’d do to him. Mark felt his face burning with a blush. “I don’t believe this. Alex, this is a total violation of my privacy.” “Priv-acy? Speak English,” Alex teased. “What do you want me to do to you?” Steve seemed intrigued. Alex laughed. 77

G.A. Hauser “You know what Alex did?” Mark addressed Adam and Jack. “He told all his mates that the picture he transmitted from his mobile was of him.” Mark tried to see if the information embarrassed Alex. It didn’t appear to. “I’d send a real one if I could. You guys want to come on me?” Alex licked his lips. “Where’s Oliver?” Adam asked. “They had a fight,” Steve said, “Over Alex saying the picture was of him.” “Ah.” Jack nodded. “That would do it.” “I don’t know why.” Alex began eating off Mark’s plate. “I would think he’d be proud to have a boyfriend with a dick that big…well,” Alex batted his lashes, “he does.” “You will lose him.” Mark’s frustration over getting his son to think straight was gaining on his patience. “If you continue to mistreat Oliver, he will stay away from you permanently.” “Mistreat?” Alex scoffed. “You have any idea how many times that boy comes in me? Give me a break.” “It doesn’t matter,” Jack said, “You fuck with his mind and he’ll be gone.” “No way.” Alex shook his head. “Yeah, way.” Steve said, “Stop eating your father’s food.” “Why? He’s not.” Alex picked up a container to add to his own supply of shrimp and chicken. “You’re lucky your dad is such a sweetheart, Alex, because you push him to his limit.” Adam drank his beer. “He’s just a pushover.” Alex nudged Mark. “Don’t count on it.” Jack scraped out the remainder of the white rice onto his plate. Mark met Jack’s eye. Though Jack meant to support him, Jack knew he was indeed a ‘pushover’. “He won’t kick me out.” Alex ate more food off of Mark’s plate. “He said he’d never do that to me.” “Never say never,” Adam warned. “Now, Steve, on the other hand,” Alex giggled, “If he wasn’t so hot for my ass, he’d have kicked me out ages ago.” “Stop flattering yourself.” Steve set his chopsticks down on his plate and gave his attention to his beer. “You kissed me. Remember?” Alex puckered his lips. 78

Packing Heat “In relief.” Steve appeared to grow more annoyed by the minute. “When I found you were safe.” “That’s your story and you’re sticking to it.” Alex hopped off the stool and opened the refrigerator. He removed a beer bottle and uncapped it. Mark rubbed his face wearily. “Someone call Oliver and beg him to take him back.” “You don’t have to beg him, Dad. He’ll come running.” Alex returned to his place, finishing his food. “You’re pretty damn sure of yourself, aren’t you, Alexander?” Adam said. “Why shouldn’t I be?” Alex asked, “I’m smart, sexy, and Mark Richfield’s son. What more does a guy need?” “Modesty?” Mark propped his chin in his palm. Alex scoffed. “Yeah, right.” “The reason your father is so appealing is his sense of decency, Alex.” Adam began stacking plates. “If Mark was as conceited as you, no one would tolerate him.” That made Mark chuckle sadly. “Thank you?” he asked hesitantly. “It was a compliment.” Adam kissed Mark’s hair as he passed behind him to the sink with his hands full. Jack handed out fortune cookies. Alex snatched Mark’s quickly. “He won’t eat it.” “Mark?” Jack asked, making sure. “I won’t.” Mark tried to sit straight on the stool but kept sinking he felt so weary. Alex broke the cookie and removed the fortune. “Right. What have we got? Hey, this is for Dad.” Mark didn’t even want to hear it. “It says, ‘You will have ten inches of delight to share’.” Steve took the tiny ribbon of paper away from Alex quickly. “Hey!” “I don’t care, Steven.” Mark stood to help Adam with the dishes. “You have to add, ‘in bed’ to the end of it,” Alex said. “What it really says is ‘You are the favorite of your friends’.” Steve tossed it down on the counter. “In bed,” Alex added. “But we already know that.” 79

G.A. Hauser “Go away,” Mark pleaded. “I don’t get it.” Alex shrugged. “If I was the one everyone wanted to top, or suck, or spurt cum on…” “Alex,” Steve moaned in disapproval. “No, Steve.” Alex looked upset. “I mean it. If I was the one everyone wanted, I wouldn’t be embarrassed by it or hide it.” Alex brought his plate to the sink. “I think he’s lucky. Everyone knows who he is. He’s famous, not some nobody.” Mark stared at his son. Was all the bravado insecurity? “Alex, you’re only nineteen. I wasn’t anything by then.” “I’ll never be as famous as you are.” “Why not?” Adam asked. “You’re going to one of the best drama schools in the country.” “So?” Alex crossed his arms tightly. “So?” Jack mimicked. “Alex, isn’t it time to grow up?” “No.” Alex grinned wickedly. “Wanna make me a man, Jackie-blue?” “No amount of fucking will change you, Alexander,” Jack answered, “You have to become a man from the inside.” “Mm.” Alex squirmed. “Now you’re talking.” “Go play a video game.” Steve pointed to the living room. “No. I like hanging out with you guys.” “We don’t like hanging out with you.” Mark tossed the empty cartons into the trash and wiped the table. “Wow. That’s harsh.” Alex winced. Adam finished loading the dishwasher and dried his hands. “Do you blame us? If you’re not picking on your father, you’re making sexual innuendos.” Mark felt terrible when Alex pivoted on his heels and left. “Alex.” He rushed after him. “Go away.” Alex climbed the stairs with Mark in pursuit. “Stop. Alexander.” He confronted Mark, showing his teeth. “You have a nice group of bodyguards surrounding you, don’t you?” “Love.” Mark cupped Alex’s cheek. “They would be yours as well, but you antagonize.” “What do you expect?” 80

Packing Heat “Expect?” Mark recoiled at the hostility. “I’m living in your shadow.” “Don’t act as if I’m some hotshot Hollywood princess.” “Aren’t you? You’re the country’s top model. You’re in every magazine, every television ad, articles are written about you in everything from Cosmo to Architectural Digest raving about your ‘good ole days’ as the best skyscraper designer in LA.” “Alex, you have every promise of being better than I am. Look how young you are.” Mark caressed his smooth skin. How he envied that not a line marred Alex’s expression. “I didn’t achieve anything at your age. I was twenty-five when I designed the Collin’s Tower and I certainly wasn’t a star or protégé from it.” “Leave me alone.” Mark grabbed Alex’s elbow. “We are all here to help you achieve your dreams.” “No you’re not. You and your friends are just here to build a wall around you. To hide you from me.” “What?” Mark couldn’t be more confused. Alex yanked his arm out of Mark’s grip and closed himself into his bedroom. Flashes of his youth, tainted with constant battles about his own sexuality and worth plagued Mark. “No.” He stood at Alex’s door and knocked. “Alex, listen to me. You are miles ahead of me in so many ways.” Mark tried to door handle. “Open it, love.” Mark pressed his ear to the door. Steve appeared at the top of the landing. “What’s going on?” “He’s cross with me.” Mark jiggled the door. “Alex?” “Why?” Looking at the locked door in frustration, Mark walked towards Steve to whisper, “He seems to think you’re all creating a wall around me.” “A what?” Steve narrowed his eyes. “A wall. Never mind.” Mark exhaled loudly. “Come down stairs. Cardinals versus Forty-niners.” Steve waved for Mark to follow him. “Be there in a second.” Mark hated leaving things unresolved with Alex. “Let him stew.” Steve held Mark’s hand. “I shouldn’t.” 81

G.A. Hauser “What’s he got to complain about, Mark? You spoil him rotten, you pay for his classes at UCLA, you tolerate him being a gay sex fiend…” Mark still felt terrible. “You know what we went through to come out?” Steve said. “How you almost married Sharon because you had to prove you were straight?” “This isn’t about me.” “Isn’t it? It’s always about you. If Alex is jealous of you he needs to figure out what he’s doing to alienate us.” “Steven, he’s nineteen. Don’t expect him to have the capabilities of an adult.” “You guys okay?” Adam stood at the bottom of the stairs looking up. “Alex is angry at Mark. What else is new?” Steve said. “Let me just have a word.” Mark backed up. “Anything I can do?” “No, Adam. Thank you.” Mark said to Steve, “I’ll be down soon.” “Don’t indulge him.” “I’m not doing that. He’s hurting.” After Steve exhaled a deep sigh, he nodded and walked towards Adam. Mark returned to Alex’s door. “Open it, please.” About to shout Alex’s name, Mark heard the handle turn and was able to push the door backwards. Alex sat down on his bed, his laptop propped on his thighs as he rested against the headboard. Mark joined him, sitting next to him. He was about to speak words of comfort when he looked at the screen. “What are you doing?” “Uploading a photo to my Facebook page.” “Not that photo!” “I cropped it.” “Alex, why are you doing this?” “It’s sexy.” “It’s me!” Mark had an urge to yank the computer away from Alex but calmed down. “Nope. From now on it’s me.” Alex moved his finger on the mouse pad. Rubbing his eyes in agony, Mark said, “Love, you don’t want to be me.” “Yes. I do.” “Why?” Mark dropped his hands to his lap. “I’m nearly forty and very 82

Packing Heat soon will be a sad has-been.” Alex gave Mark an appraising look. “You don’t look nearly forty. You look fucking hot.” “Though I appreciate the ego boost, I am getting old. You on the other hand have all your life before you.” “Big deal.” “It is a big deal.” Mark tried to remove the laptop so Alex would pay attention. “Close it down for a moment.” Reluctantly, Alex did, placing the laptop on the floor beside him. “At your age I was lost sexually. You know what you want.” “What I want is older men. But you and Steve keep having a fit.” “What about Oliver?” “Oliver is fine for a boyfriend. But I really want a mentor as well.” “No.” Alex threw up his hands. “If you want a mentor, ask Barry for help.” “Barry? As in Professor Wolinski? Steve’s brother-in-law? He’s straight.” “Precisely. And I trust him.” “If he’s straight, how can he mentor me?” Taken aback again by Alex’s tenacity for sex, Mark asked, “What exactly do you want, Alex?” “Hot sex from a thirty-something man.” “Why?” “What are you, stupid?” Alex gestured to the computer. “Did you see the photo of yourself? I spank the monkey to dreams of Jack, Adam and Steve fucking me. Young guys are fucked up.” “Why don’t you and Oliver learn together?” “We did. We have. I’m bored.” “Watch a video together.” “Yawn.” Alex played up his boredom. “Why are we back here again? I feel as if I’ve already had this conversation with you.” “You have. Stop trying to change me.” “Where are you going?” 83

G.A. Hauser “I want to hang out with the guys.” “They don’t want to hang out with you.” Alex stopped before he reached for the door. “Do you say stuff like that to hurt me deliberately?” “Come here.” Mark reached out his hand. Alex stood beside him by the bed. “You claim to have read my diaries.” “Yup. What I could find anyway. If like Jack said, and you’ve been writing them since college, then I’ve only read your recent ones.” “Well? What do you think of that mess that I call my life?” “Sweet!” “Why on earth is it ‘sweet’?” Mark urged Alex to sit. Instantly Alex lay back across Mark’s lap. “You’ve done so much. Fucked so many men and women. Had people suck your cock everywhere. I’m so jealous I could scream.” “I don’t know if you’ve noticed or not, Alex, but I take pills and see a shrink.” “I have no idea why. Your life is perfect.” “I hated those days. I had no real feeling for anyone. Not until I met Steve.” “Yeah, but it must have felt great to have Jack constantly fawning over you.” Mark petted Alex’s hair back from his forehead. “No. It was cruel.” “He’s had you, has you, now. So? All is forgiven.” “Most of the people who sucked my cock were women.” Mark rested his free hand on Alex’s chest and felt his heart beat. “Do you want women?” “Ew. No. But I want men.” “How would Oliver feel if you cheated on him?” “I don’t want to cheat. But isn’t nineteen too young to be…involved?” “Let me just advise you the grass is not always greener. Once you lose Oliver, you will struggle to replace him.” Alex pouted. Mark touched his face, feeling very light stubble from where Alex had shaved that morning. “I’ve learned to take things a day at a time. You will too.” Alex met his eyes. 84

Packing Heat Mark smiled sweetly down at him. Using his fingertip, Alex traced the laugh lines near Mark’s eyes. “Don’t get Botox. You’re beautiful.” “You are so good for my ego.” Mark laughed. “But I am getting Botox.” “Just a little. Don’t freeze your forehead. The celebrities look like shit that do that.” “I know.” Mark gazed at his son, enjoying his closeness. “Why do I want older men, Dad?” “I think it’s natural that a young man is attracted to maturity. But in reality, it’s unseemly for a man in his thirties to go with a teenager.” “I thought cougars were all the rage.” “That’s older women and younger men.” “What’s it called when it’s two gay guys?” “Pathetic.” “Stop.” Alex laughed. “You’re not attracted to younger men?” “Not in the least. Quite the opposite.” “Steve is almost five years younger than you.” “That’s negligible. I don’t count that.” “Will you have a four-way again tonight?” Alex whispered. Mark looked away from his son’s eyes. Who was he to preach being loyal or happy with one man when he was guilty of sharing his affections. “Hmm?” Alex rolled to his side and propped his head up in his palm. “Do you have any idea how much I want those guys to gang bang me like they do you?” His body tensed, Mark still couldn’t meet his stare. “You lucky fucker.” “How…how do you know what they do to me?” “You wrote how much you loved it in your diary.” Alex traced his finger down Mark’s neck to his chest. “Does Steve go first or last?” Stopping Alex’s touch as it made its way to his nipple, Mark clasped his hand. “I don’t think this is appropriate conversation.” “Who else can I talk to about it? Steve?” “No.” Mark met his eyes. “Do not talk to Steve about this.” Just as Alex was about to reply, Steve opened the door and peeked in. “You realize how long you’ve been up here?” 85

G.A. Hauser “I’m sorry, love.” Steve walked closer until he was standing beside Mark. “What’s the big debate?” “Mm.” Alex cupped his own crotch and licked his lips. “What?” Steve made an expression of pain. “You’ve had one fight with Oliver and I’m back on your wish list?” “You never got off.” Alex humped his own hand. “I never got off.” Steve gestured to Mark angrily. “This is the crap you’re wasting your night with? This bullshit?” “Not entirely. We’ve sorted some things out.” “Mark, come down and watch football with us.” Steve extended his hand. Alex embraced Mark and hid his face in his shirt. “In a minute.” Mark smiled at Steve. “What a load of crap.” Steve headed to the door. “Jealous, Steve?” “No. But obviously you are.” “Ouch!” Alex shouted as Steve left the room. “Wow. That sucked.” “You realize setting your sights back on him is worthless.” “Yeah. I know.” Alex curled around Mark, snuggling. “You’re so lucky that so many guys love you.” Holding Alex close, Mark thought about it. “I suppose I am.” “Think about it, Dad. Mickey, Jeff, Hunter, Blake, Josh…they’re all so hot for you.” “I don’t know if they are ‘hot’ for me, or if they’re simply good friends.” He felt Alex chuckle. “No. Seriously, Alex.” “They want to fuck you. Just like those actors did in Forever Young.” Mark jolted, having no idea Alex knew about that incident. “My diary again?” “Yup.” “That was wrong. I cheated on Steven. I was very lucky not to lose him when I went with Carl and Keith.” “But you did. You gave in to the temptation and had sex with them both, at the same time. Yum! I love that show. You know it’s still on cable TV for another season. Why haven’t they asked you back?” “They wanted me to be a regular.” 86

Packing Heat Alex bolted upright. “What?” “Yes.” Mark nodded. “I was to be featured throughout the season. I turned it down.” “Why? Are you crazy?” He dug his fingers through Alex’s long hair. “No, love. Not crazy because I turned down the soap opera. I’ve other reasons why I’m a slate off.” “Man, if they asked me to be a star on that show I’d jump at the chance.” “Perhaps once you’ve earned your degree you can audition.” “Ohhh, perhaps.” Alex mimicked him. “Let’s join the others. Shall we?” Reaching to be hoisted upright, Alex made it to his feet as Mark pushed him from behind. “Me legs are numb.” Mark shook his thighs to get the feeling back in them. In return, Alex offered to help Mark to stand. When they were headed to the hall, Alex asked, “Will you ever tell me what a group session is like? For real? And the details of Keith and Carl’s lovemaking?” “No.” Mark smacked Alex’s bottom. “You sort of already described it for me.” “Please respect my privacy and do not read from my journal again.” “Aww, it’s so hot. I hafta.” Alex slumped over as he scuffed his socks down the carpeted hall. “You should get a part in any show. You’re already a drama queen.” “One tidbit.” Alex hugged Mark and walked with him down the hall, gripping him like iron. “What could I possibly tell you?” Mark switched off the lights as they went. “Whose spunk tastes best?” Mark met the gleam in Alex’s eyes. He smiled and then replied, “Steven.” “Augh!” Alex moaned in pain. “Why?” he asked, whispering into Mark’s ear as they headed down the stairs. “I don’t know. Just something about it.” “Oh, man, oh, man…” Alex wriggled against Mark. “You shall have to take my word for it.” Mark halted before he entered the den. The three men were sprawled out in the dark, clutching beers, munching popcorn and cheering at the plasma screen. 87

G.A. Hauser Alex darted to the sofa to claim the spot next to Steve, latching onto him. “Make room for your father.” Steve heaved Alex over, creating a space for Mark between them. Mark smiled in triumph and took his place. “That’s my man.” He leaned his head on Steve. As Steve put his arm around Mark’s shoulder, Alex took Steve’s beer to share. Mark caught Alex and Steve smiling at each other and winked at Jack when he gave him one first. Mark glanced at Alex. He was watching the final countdown of the football game, lying across both his and Steve’s lap. Steve was petting Alex’s hair while Mark rubbed his back gently. Jack stretched his arms over his head and yawned. “Where did the night go?” “Are you staying over?” Steve asked. Mark noticed Alex perk up. “Uh, let’s give it a miss tonight, love.” “Oh?” Steve turned to look at Mark. Mark indicated with his eyes to Alex. “Oh.” Steve did not seem pleased. “It’s all right.” Adam stood and gave his back a stretch as well. “School day tomorrow.” “Not for me. It’s winter break.” Alex smirked. “I get to stay in bed.” “I thought you liked your classes, Alex.” Adam collected empty beer bottles. “I do.” Mark tapped him. “Let us up.” With another moan, Alex stood off the sofa, releasing Mark and Steve. “But?” Adam continued their thoughts as he stood by the doorway. “But? I’d rather be snuggled in bed with you three.” Adam laughed and left the room. “Are we back there again?” Jack shut off the TV and turned on the light. “We never left. I just kept quiet.” “He had a fight with Oliver,” Mark said. “How could I forget?” Jack picked up the empty bowl of popcorn and exited the room. 88

Packing Heat Mark was about to remark on Jack’s sentiment when he noticed Alex clinging to Steve. Waiting to see what they would do, Mark was stunned when Alex said in a throaty voice, “Heard you have great tasting spunk.” Immediately Steve met Mark’s gaze and glared at him. “Is nothing private, Alex?” Mark asked. “Obviously not!” Steve broke the contact and stormed out. “Thanks,” Mark said, “I share something with you and you instantly get me into trouble.” “I thought it was a nice compliment.” “Do you act stupid on purpose?” Alex touched his lip. “Isn’t it sexy?” “Oh, Alexander, why do you do this? I thought we had begun to work things out.” “What did I do?” “Go to bed. I can’t deal with anymore of this today.” “Bye.” Alex stomped out. When Mark entered the kitchen the three men stopped talking. “I’m sorry, lads.” “You should be.” Steve appeared angry. “You told Alex my sperm tasted good? Why did you say that? You know what he’s like.” “He asked for one tidbit. Don’t get into a mood.” “Too bad we’re off for tonight.” Adam gave Mark a once over. “No kidding.” Jack rubbed his own crotch. Mark could see both men were sporting wood. “Jesus, Larsen.” Steve moaned, staring at Jack’s action. A rush of lust washed over Mark’s body making his cock throb. Mark met Jack’s blue eyes and melted. Silently he mouthed, ‘Jackie-blue’. Jack closed the gap between them and embraced Mark. As kisses ran down Mark’s neck to his earlobe, Mark’s head fell back and he knew he would give these men whatever they wanted. “I need you.” “Jackie…” Mark inhaled Jack’s cologne, writhed against Jack’s smoldering heat. Jack picked Mark up over his shoulder and headed upstairs. While he bounced over Jack’s back, Mark watched Adam leading Steve to the second 89

G.A. Hauser level by a belt loop. Mark was tossed on his back on the bed. Before he had time to react, Jack had Mark’s zipper open and spread wide. Seeing his black pubic hair under his jeans, Mark heard Jack whimper as he licked Mark’s body, exposing it as he dragged his pants down. Adam held the bottom of Mark’s shirt and raised it over and off Mark’s body. His jeans at his thighs, Mark couldn’t catch his breath as Jack enveloped his semi-erection and held onto Mark’s hips, lifting Mark off the bed as he drew him into his mouth. Swooning from Jack’s passion, Mark caught, out of the corner of his eye, Steve and Adam stripping their clothing quickly. Steve urged Jack to take off his shirt. Jack tore it off and resumed sucking while Steve pinched Jack’s hard nipples. Adam held his cock near Mark. As if waking from a dream, Mark noticed it and opened his mouth. Adam filled it. When Jack stopped sucking again, Mark opened his eyes to see Jack eagerly removing his pants and briefs, diving back on Mark when he was naked. Holding Adam’s cock by the base, Mark noticed Steve rolling a condom on himself. A second later, Steve was kneeling behind Jack as Jack continued to suck. Jack growled in pleasure as Steve fucked him. Mark felt a surge to his groin at the sight. Adam bucked his cock into Mark’s mouth, grunting as he came. Mark swallowed his load as it seemed Adam was as excited as he was to watch those two alpha dogs hump. One more thrust and Adam stood back, gasping for air. Not wanting to miss the contact between Jack and Steve, Mark used a pillow to raise his head. Steve’s chest tightened to a knot of muscles as he hammered into Jack. The look of pure sexual pleasure on Steve sent Mark over the edge. “Ah!” Jack reacted to Mark’s cry as well as Steve. Steve roared and showed his teeth as he came, while Mark let go inside Jack’s mouth. “Ah! Jackie! Ah!” Jack sucked hard and strong as Mark arched his back and gave Jack what he craved. As if Adam could read Jack’s mind, he rolled a condom on Jack and used a generous amount of lube. Once Jack disconnected from Mark’s cock, he forced Mark’s legs back 90

Packing Heat and pushed in. Still convulsing from the orgasm, Mark held his own thighs open for Jack and caught Steve tripping backwards, removing the spent condom. “Jack…” Mark always grew teary-eyed when Jack made love to him. Jack sealed their bodies together and closed his eyes, his mouth tightening to a thin line as his cock throbbed quickly in Mark’s ass. “My baby.” Mark dabbed at the corner of his eye. “Mark Antonious,” Jack breathed, “You are so fantastic.” Steve vanished into the bathroom, returning a minute later. He relaxed on the bed beside Mark as Jack lingered, thrusting his hips for a last few pumps into Mark. “I don’t want to pull out.” “Stay in me.” Mark reached out to him. Jack allowed Mark to unlock his knees, dropping down between Mark’s legs and resting his head on Mark’s chest. With Jack coating his body in sweat, Mark felt Jack’s cock slowly retracting out of his ass. Steve chewed on Mark’s shoulder, licking it and kissing it as if it were Mark’s mouth. Adam sat down heavily, running his hand over Jack’s back and bottom. “Wow.” Mark caught movement near the door. “Shit.” “What?” Steve asked tiredly. “We didn’t lock the door.” Adam looked over at it. “Alex?” “Yes,” Mark said. “The voyeur.” Jack leaned up on his elbows and stared at Mark. “I’m not sure I blame him. If I was nineteen and could watch four guys fucking, I would.” “I’m his father.” Mark tried not to sneer. “Yeah. I keep forgetting that.” Jack wiped the sweat off his face. “You’re not a typical dad.” “Let’s clean up.” Adam patted Jack’s arm. Jack kissed Mark and climbed off the bed. Both he and Adam disappeared into the bathroom. Steve ran his finger down the middle of Mark’s torso through Jack’s perspiration. “You okay?” “I was upbeat until I saw the door move.” Mark stared at it. “We should always remember to lock it.” 91

G.A. Hauser “Hang on.” Mark sat up and climbed off the bed. “What? Is he still out there?” Mark opened his bottom drawer. The pills were still there but his journal had vanished. He peeked out into the hall and shut the door. “He has my diary.” “Is that where you keep it?” “Yes.” Jack and Adam returned. “We need to go.” “Okay, Jackie.” Mark hung his arms around Jack’s neck and pushed their crotches together. “Mm. Do that and we won’t go.” Jack smiled, dancing with Mark. “I wish you didn’t go. We really should live together.” Adam laughed. “A steady diet of you and my brain would take a permanent hike.” “Nonsense. You and Jackie must have sex daily.” Mark pouted, leaning his forehead against Jack’s. “You’re getting me going.” Jack smiled. “I can suck you…” Mark began to lower down. “Next time. Now I know where Alex gets his insatiable appetite from.” “Steven.” Mark laughed, grinning at him. “Nope. Not me. The apple didn’t fall far from the Richfield tree.” Steve crossed his arms. Adam handed Jack his briefs. “I think Mark wants us here to help with Alex.” “Yes. What’s wrong with that?” Mark allowed Jack the space he needed to get dressed. “Nothing.” Adam zipped his fly. “You can handle him, Mark. Just love him.” “I will, Jackie.” Mark said, “Let me clean up. I want to walk you out.” “Okay, babe.” Jack nodded. Mark glanced at Steve as Steve dressed. He looked upset still, and Mark didn’t know what to do. Steve tucked in his shirt and spotted Jack admiring a framed photo on their wall. Years ago Mark had modeled for a book of male nudes. The photographer, Janis Campbell, had taken a shot of Mark licking Jack’s cheek, 92

Packing Heat just for fun. Both Mark and Jack were in their early twenties at the time, and Mark’s hair was so long it came to his mid-back. “Lost in memories, Larsen?” Steve smiled. “Always.” “Uh hum?” Adam teased. “Past and present.” Jack grinned at him. “Good save.” Adam shook his head as he checked his mobile phone, sticking it to his ear. “He still mired in voicemail?” Steve asked Jack quietly as he met him across the room. “Yup. Stars and their needs, never-ending.” Jack smoothed his hands over his hair. “Even on a Sunday night?” “It doesn’t seem to matter. His assistant has taken a huge load off him though. It’s not as bad as when I first met him.” Steve looked back at Adam who was texting. “Anyway,” Steve snapped out of his daze. “Thanks for the Chinese food and the fuck.” “I owe you.” Jack wagged his finger at Steve. “You got me at a vulnerable moment.” “Yeah, with Mark’s big cock in your mouth. I knew I could do anything to you.” “You’re bad!” Jack laughed. Before Steve added another comment about his husband’s anatomy, Mark appeared. “Christ, look at him.” “I do. Every chance I get.” Jack leaned against Steve. “I really wish you didn’t have to rush off,” Mark said, picking his jeans up off the floor. Jack checked his watch. “We’ve been here since seven.” “Oh.” Mark glanced at the digital clock. “Where did four hours go?” “The football,” Adam said as he pocketed his phone. “True.” Mark drew his shirt over his head and shook out his hair. Steve salivated at the sight. Every move Mark made was graceful. His dick throbbed. He’d get more of Mark before bed. “All right. I think I can let you go now.” Mark opened the door. 93

G.A. Hauser Steve half expected Alex to fall in with his ear pressed to the keyhole. Mark led the way down the stairs to the front door. When they had gathered for a goodbye Mark gripped Jack by the jacket lapels and drew him into a kiss. Steve shifted his weight leg to leg in excitement. “Goodnight, Steve.” Adam reached for him. “Night, Mr. Lewis.” Steve kissed him, peeking at Jack and Mark. Jack reached for Steve next. “See ya.” “See ya.” Steve hugged him, licking Jack’s lips and twirling tongues. “Wow,” Mark exclaimed. “No shit,” Adam echoed. Steve’s attachment to Jack and Adam were strong. He couldn’t imagine life without them. Pressing his mouth against Jack’s, Steve whispered, “You take me next time. Mark’s too big.” “You got it.” “What?” Mark asked. “No secrets.” “I said I wanted Jack’s cock in me.” “Oh!” Mark blinked. “You’re too much for a man to take, Richfield.” Adam laughed. Mark shoved him to be quiet. “Bye.” Jack waved, opening the door. “Bye.” Steve stood next to Mark watching Adam and Jack get into Jack’s car. Once the headlights faded away, Mark closed the door. “Let me make sure all the doors are locked and the lights are out.” “Okay.” Steve climbed the stairs and caught Alex just exiting from their bedroom. “Hang on.” Alex froze and looked back at him. “About this diary you keep stealing.” Steve nudged Alex to his room and stood by the doorway. Dropping to his bed, Alex stared at him. “What about it? Grand larceny, Officer Miller?” “Stop reading it.” “Stop? Is that the only word you know? Do you know how many times you’ve said it to me? Do they teach you that word in cop-school?” “Cop school? Do you mean the academy?” Steve rubbed his forehead. 94

Packing Heat “Whatever.” “Alex.” Steve approached him. “I don’t get it? Why do you even care what he’s written?” Laughing at him, Alex said, “Man, you are clueless. You have no idea what he writes in there.” “Isn’t that the point of a private journal?” “He writes shit in there he wants you to read. You sure you were once a cop?” Steve thought about it. “Why would he do that?” “Do you know when he was with Sharon, the only way he could keep it up was if he fantasized about a cop fucking him?” Steve smiled. “Yeah,” Alex said, mocking him. “He’s got the worst cop-fetish on the planet.” “I know.” “He wants you to take him in uniform.” “I have.” “Not lately.” About to contradict Alex, Steve tried to remember the last time they role played. “Dad’s got some big scene in his head. He wants you to get really rough on him.” Steve glanced down the hall before he asked, “He really wrote that?” “Duh. Man, pathetic.” “Like how rough?” Steve’s cock was going nuts in his pants. “Handcuffs, sticking shit up his ass, you know.” “He actually wrote that?” “Will you read it yourself? Christ, I can’t believe I have to coach you.” “I can’t read your dad’s diary.” Steve backed up to the door. “Then you’ll never know what he really wants, will you?” “He’d tell me. He can ask for whatever he wants.” “Maybe he’s humiliated.” Alex’s gaze went to Steve’s crotch. He laughed. “Wow. Nice dick.” Steve crossed his hands in front of his groin. “How was fucking Larsen, Steve?” 95

G.A. Hauser “Look, don’t peek. Okay?” “You leave the door open? I look.” “Mark is your dad.” “You think I look at him?” Alex laughed in a choke. “Steve?” “Coming,” Steve called to Mark. “You will be, again.” Alex grinned wickedly. “Have you made up with Oliver yet?” “He’s on the verge of forgiving me. I need to get my dick sucked.” Alex popped open the top button of his jeans. “Want to?” “No.” “What now?” Mark poked his head into the room. “I want Steve to suck my cock.” “Goodnight, Alex,” Mark said, tilting his head for Steve to leave. “You’re selfish, Dad,” Alex called after him. “Goodnight.” Mark closed the door behind them and shook his head. “He’s tenacious, I’ll give him that.” Steve made his way to their master bedroom. Once he was in the middle of the room, he stared at the dresser drawer that contained the journal. “Did he upset you?” Mark asked, dropping his jeans down. “No.” Steve watched as Mark undressed. “I’m shattered.” Mark folded his clothing and entered the bathroom. The journal began calling him, like a silent siren. He couldn’t imagine reading it and abusing Mark’s trust. Hearing the water running in the sink, Steve took off his clothing as he gazed at the knobs of the drawer in wonder. Do what? Be rougher on him than I already am? Steve poked his head into the bathroom finding Mark brushing his teeth. “Do you want me to wear my uniform more often?” Mark blew out the toothpaste in surprise and gaped at him. “Did you read my diary too?” “No. Do you?” The shade of red Mark turned answered Steve’s question. “You know you can ask me to do anything, right?” His mouth rinsed, Mark shut the water and met Steve’s gaze. “If you didn’t read my diary, how do you know this?” 96

Packing Heat “Alex told me.” The expression of understanding washed over Mark’s face. “Of course. Alexander.” Mark wiped his face on a towel. Steve turned Mark to look at him directly, not in the reflection. “You know I’d do anything for you.” “Dear oh, dear!” Mark laughed nervously. “Do you think I’m kidding?” “No, that’s why I’m embarrassed.” Cupping Mark’s jaw and holding him firmly, Steve breathed sensually, “You name it.” “Blimey.” Mark gulped loudly. With his free hand Steve ran his fingers over Mark’s groin, feeling how hard he was. “What do you want me to do to you?” Steve ran his palm over the length. His own skin tingled with chills. “I…I…” “Handcuff you?” Steve recalled when he and Mark first met after a business retreat in the New Mexican desert, Mark had indicated he enjoyed Steve wearing his old police uniform. He had even handcuffed him. But it had been two years since then. “Wear my LAPD uniform?” Steve felt Mark’s cock throb. “Do you want me to shove a phallus up your ass?” “Huh?” Mark sharpened his gaze. “Do what?” A feeling of disorientation washed over Steve. “You lost me with the phallus.” Mark backed up. “Alex said…” Steve used his thumb to point over his shoulder. “Alex? Alex told you to stick something plastic up me bum?” Mark’s cock deflated in Steve’s hand. The mood was blown. “Let me wash up.” Steve grabbed his toothbrush as Mark stormed out. Why do I listen to that kid? Mark opened the drawer and dug to the bottom. Taking the book out, he sat on the bed and thumbed through the pages. Something caught his eye. On an old entry, where he had fantasized Steve in his uniform, and him helpless, little side notes had been scribbled in. The content shocked him. “Flamin’ hell.” Hearing Steve behind him, Mark said, “Steven, come here.” “Is that it?” 97

G.A. Hauser “Yes. Sit down.” “You sure you want me to read it?” Steve sat next to him. “Alex has added comments.” “To your diary?” “You see this on the margin? I did not write that.” Mark handed the book to Steve. “Jesus.” “There is something wrong with that boy.” “Now, hang on. You know him. He’s a prankster. I wouldn’t take this stuff as his own needs.” “Good lord, I hope not.” Mark waited as Steve flipped pages. “You know what I think he’s doing?” “Making my head ache?” “That too. No, I think he’s assuming I’d read this stuff, and do shit to you you didn’t like.” “And? The result would be?” Mark massaged his temples. “The result would be you getting grossed out and not wanting me anymore.” “And you would run to him?” “In theory.” Steve skimmed the text. “He’s demented.” Mark leaned on Steve to see the writing. “Who even thinks of doing such things? They aren’t sexy in the least.” “Not to you.” Mark leaned back. “To you?” “Yeah, well, some of it is kind of hot. I’ve seen raunchy porn films were guys get dildos up their ass while they fuck another guy.” “Why don’t they just have a real man do it?” “Some couples don’t want a threesome.” “I see.” Mark touched his lip. “Not everyone is as lucky as us.” Steve raised the book higher. “You want me to spank you while you’re hogtied?” “Let me see that.” Mark took the book. “No. That’s not my handwriting. You should know that.” “I know. Wishful thinking.” “I’m surrounded by sexual deviants.” 98

Packing Heat “How lucky can a guy get?” Steve crawled under the blankets. Mark tucked his book away again and set the clock alarm. “Work tomorrow but it’s a short week at least.” “Yup.” Steve held open the covers for Mark to climb in. After he shut off the light on the nightstand, Mark snuggled against Steve, getting spooned by Steve from behind. Steve cupped his hand over Mark’s flaccid cock, as he usually did. Mark let go a deep sigh and closed his eyes. “Tomorrow is another day.” “Yup. I love you.” “Love you too.”

99

Chapter Five Wearing his gray Armani suit and tie, Mark parked in his executive spot at Parsons and Company. Beside him Steve picked up his valise which contained his laptop. “Three days on, then four off. Not too shabby.” Mark climbed out of the car and pointed the remote at it to lock the doors. “We need a vacation.” Steve led the way to the elevator. “You say that all the time. Are you waiting for me to plan it?” “Yes.” Steve poked the call button. “We have to take Alexander with us. I’m not leaving him on his own.” “A nineteen year old you can’t trust on his own.” Steve made a face at Mark as he entered the elevator. “You know what I mean.” Mark turned to stare at the flashing numbered lights. “Unfortunately.” “He could stay with Angel.” “If he makes up with Oliver.” “He will. Those boys are meant to be.” Mark exited the elevator at their office floor, walking briskly into the lobby. “Hello! Hello. We’re here.” Mark leaned over the receptionist’s counter. “Any calls? Anything urgent?” “Here ya go.” Mark took a handful of sticky notes. “Anything for the cop?” “Nope.” She grinned. “Just the model.” As Mark followed Steve down the hall, he thumbed through the messages. “Another one from the directors of Forever Young. Should I do another acting role, Steven?” “Up to you, babe.” Steve pecked his lips and continued down the hall. Before he sat at his desk, Mark stood in his office doorway reading through the rest of the notes. He jumped out of his skin when someone grabbed his bottom.

Packing Heat “Hello, gorgeous.” “Hello, Daniel.” Mark raised his eyebrow at him. “I am right and it’s Daniel, not Donald.” “I’ll never tell.” He continued heading down the corridor. “Identical twins are a nuisance!” Mark laughed as he replied. He placed the handful of notes on his desk and removed his mobile phone from his jacket pocket. Several callers had left him voicemail messages as well. Mark dialed and closed his door as he did. “Yes, hello. This is Mark Richfield. I received a message that Dr. Van Eldon has an appointment available at ten.” “Yes. Mr. Richfield. We had a cancellation. Would you be able to make it to the office on short notice?” Mark read his watch. “Yes.” “I’ll see you soon.” Pocketing the phone, Mark knew he had many calls to make before the four day weekend but his mental health was priority. He left his office and poked his head into Steve’s. Steve was on the phone and signaled to Mark by holding up his index finger for him to wait. While Steve was talking, Mark moved behind him and massaged his shoulders. “Yes,” Steve said into the phone, “I can come by after one. Sure. See you then.” He ended the call and looked up at Mark. “Miss me already?” “Always.” Steve swiveled in his chair to face him. “What’s up?” “I have an appointment with Dr. Van Eldon.” “Your shrink?” “Yes.” Shrugging, Steve said, “Okay.” “Now. I have to go now. He has a cancelation.” “I can use a company car. Go.” “Tell Harold I’m at a business appointment if he asks.” “No problem.” Standing, Steve drew closer to Mark. “Are you okay?” “Of course. Just need a little boost. You know.” Mark tried to smile. “Not really. I’ve never seen a counselor.” “Yes…well.” Mark had no idea how to respond. “Have fun?” Steve grabbed a handful of Mark’s hair playfully. 101

G.A. Hauser “I’ll try.” Mark kissed him. “It’s for an hour, so I’ll see you later.” “Okay.” Mark could tell Steve was worried, yet he didn’t know what to say to comfort him. He gave Steve a little wave and left. “Hey, Mark.” Noticing the second twin standing in the hall, Mark smiled. “Hello, Donald.” “Either you’re a good guesser or you’ve got us figured out.” “I got you boys figured out.” Mark scooted past him. Donny inhaled loudly. “You always smell good.” “It’s the cologne.” “It doesn’t smell that good on me,” Donny called after him. “Why does everyone say that?” Mark said as he headed back out to the lobby. “Going to an appointment?” the receptionist asked. “Yes, love. Be back in a little over an hour.” Mark nodded his head to her as he pushed back the glass door. Mark tried to remember his last visit. So much had happened to him in a short time, he was beginning to feel overwhelmed. He stood at the receptionist desk until the woman glanced up at him. “Hello. Mark Richfield to see Dr. Van Eldon.” “Yes, Mr. Richfield. Have a seat and I’ll tell the doctor you’re here.” “Thank you.” Mark gazed back into the waiting area. Magazines were strewn over a side table next to a leather boxy looking black chair set. Though he felt anxious he sat on the edge of the seat and flipped through a magazine. He recognized his ad and paused, scrutinizing his features. They had airbrushed the small patch of hair he had on his chest so he appeared completely smooth. “You’ll be doing that to me face soon.” Mark slapped it closed and tossed it on the pile. “You could ask me to shave it.” Mark grew annoyed. Communication with his employers had obviously dwindled. “Mr. Richfield?” Mark perked up. “Come on back.” She opened a door for him. Ironically he wished he’d taken a valium for his appointment. An appointment which was meant to relieve stress. He was a wreck. He’d lived a 102

Packing Heat life filled with contradictions. And I wondered why I feel so conflicted. As he walked behind her, he wiped his sweaty palm on his slacks. “There you go.” She gestured to a door. “Thanks.” He heard her sniffing the air around him and assumed his cologne had made its way to her senses. Half of him expected her to say, ‘Why does that smell better on you than it does on me?’ but it was a men’s cologne, so that would be absurd. His hand on the knob, Mark opened the door and entered the spacious, yet traditional, smartly furnished room. The sense of familiarity was comforting. He had been a patient of Dr. Van Eldon’s since he was in his twenties. “Mark…” “Doctor.” Mark crossed the polished wood floor to clasp his extended hand. “Have a seat.” Dr. Van Eldon looked the same as Mark remembered, but men who were already bald and gray didn’t seem to change much in a year or two. An image flashed through Mark’s mind of his own hairline receding and his locks going white. It scared him to death. “How have you been?” Dr. Van Eldon sat across from Mark in an upholstered, overstuffed chair. On the low table in front of the sofa Mark occupied was a box of tissues and a squeeze toy for those who needed to fidget. He tried to loosen his tie and relax, but it was useless. Loosening the knot around his neck would not ease the tightness in his throat. “I suppose if I’ve been well I wouldn’t be here.” “Tell me what’s going on.” The doctor took off his glasses as if speaking on a more personal level. “So much.” Mark ran his hand through his hair. “I don’t know where to begin.” “The last time I saw you, you were getting married.” At first Mark wondered if he had told the doctor about his marriage to Steve, but knew it was the wedding planned for Sharon Tice he was referring to. “I didn’t marry Sharon.” “Oh?” “I…” Mark rested his elbows on his knees and stared at his Manolo Blahnick shoes. “I fell in love with a man I work with.” “I’m very glad you’re not denying your sexuality any longer, Mark. That’s a big step.” 103

G.A. Hauser “I left Sharon at the altar.” Mark waited for the scolding, meeting the doctor’s gaze. “It was dreadful.” “These things happen. If you had married her you would have been miserable.” “Yes. True. Steven and I are very much in love.” Dr. Van Eldon nodded. Mark knew it was his style to not talk too much and allow his patients to do the chatting. Straddling his legs, Mark slouched in the soft cushions and laced his fingers on his lap. “Just when I thought I was doing well with Steven, I found out I had an illegitimate son. He showed up at my door.” The doctor’s eyebrows raised expressively. Mark continued, “Alexander Mark Lehman. Well, we changed it to Richfield when Jackie…you remember Jack?” “Yes.” “Jack drew up formal adoption papers. So, Alex is now Alexander Mark Lehman-Richfield.” Mark inhaled deeply hoping he wasn’t rambling. “He’s my spitting image, Doctor. Frightening how much he’s me at nineteen.” The doctor gave him a slight smile. “But…” Mark wrung his hands. “You see, Alex has only proven to me how old I am. There he is, his perfect skin, not a line on his face. He’s a ridiculous beauty, Doctor.” Mark sat up. “I’ve a photo of him.” He took one out of his wallet and handed it over. “Yes. He’s a very handsome man.” The doctor gave back the picture. “I know you dread growing old. That’s been an issue we’ve confronted previously. You have to deal with it, Mark. You need to realize everyone will, including Alexander.” Mark replaced the photo and resumed his slouching. “Yes. Of course.” He could feel himself frown in disappointment. “I don’t know what I expect you to say. No one has invented an anti-aging pill.” The doctor leaned closer, speaking softly, “You don’t need to compete with your son.” “You’re wrong. I do.” Mark read his quizzical look. “My son wants to make love to an older man. He set his sights on my Steven and I nearly…” Mark stopped talking. “Nearly?” “I…” Mark knew he had promised the emergency room doctor he’d see his psychiatrist about the incident. At the time of his suicide attempt, he never did. “I thought I had lost Steven to Alex.” Mark dabbed at the corner of his eye. “But I hadn’t. Steven’s not like that.” 104

Packing Heat “You tried to take your own life?” “Yes.” Mark choked and tugged a tissue out of the box. “I won’t do that again. I’m not suicidal.” “What do you need from me today, Mark?” “I need to be nineteen!” Mark bit his lip. “I can’t look in the mirror any longer. All I see is an old man.” “You still have a career as a model. Obviously you’re far from old or unattractive.” Dr. Van Eldon appeared stern. “And I have told you this throughout our time together. You need to realize you are more than a pretty face.” “Yes.” Mark wiped his eyes. No. I’m not. “You are a person with many admirable attributes and values. You’re not an empty shell that will fade and be thrown away.” “Don’t you see?” Mark inhaled deeply to contain his emotions. “Alexander will show all my closest friends just what I was and no longer am.” “So you blame your son for you getting old?” “No.” Mark thought about it. “Yes. I’m mad. I’m totally mad.” “You do realize Alex cannot control what happens to you and your body. He’s going to go through the same thing. We all are.” “But it’s not bloody fair.” Mark clenched his fist. “Look at me.” Mark touched his face. “I’m nearly forty. I swear, what will happen when I turn forty? Hmm? I can’t.” “But you will. You must learn to accept changes to your looks and understand it’s a universal phenomenon.” “No. I have wasted my youth. I lived nearly my entire life in denial of being gay. I was in living hell in that mansion with my father. I’m not ready to be forty. I want it back.” As Mark ceased talking he heard the echo of his own words and how impossible his dream was to achieve. “And you feel Alex, by being openly gay, has his youth.” “Yes!” “Don’t resent Alexander for the mistakes your parents made. It’s not fair.” “Life’s not fair.” Mark rubbed at his eyes roughly. “That’s right. And each of us has to accept what we have been given.” “No!” Mark felt like overturning the table. “We do not. We can be angry.” “What good does the anger do you?” “None. But I can’t do anything else. I can’t go back. I can’t make love to 105

G.A. Hauser Jackie in college, I can’t wash off all the whores I slept with to pretend I was straight.” Mark felt ragged. Dr. Van Eldon pointed to the side table. “There’s a bottle of water if you need it.” Mark hadn’t noticed it before. He uncapped it and gulped it down. The drink settled Mark’s nerves a little. In the lull, Dr. Van Eldon watched him. “Are you still limiting your intake of food?” “No. I eat.” Mark placed the water bottle on the coffee table. “If I asked Steven about your eating habits, what would he tell me?” Mark couldn’t look him in the eye. “Don’t ask him. I’m such a bloody mess.” “You focus on what you perceive as negatives in your life. It’s as if you continue to live under your father’s scrutiny.” “My father destroyed my self-esteem. You know that very well. I’m lost. I can’t find a way out of this nightmare he’s given me.” “Tell me about Steven.” At the diversion, Mark felt fire in his gut. “My Steven.” He sighed. “He’s my hero, my best friend.” “That’s a lot. You’re not alone.” “No. I’m not alone.” Mark exhaled a loud breath, releasing his anger. “He’s ex-LAPD. My fantasy man.” “I remember. You used to imagine cops in bed with you when you were with women.” Mark blinked. “You remember a lot, don’t you?” “A hazard of the job.” He smiled. “So, Steven is not a problem.” “Hardly. He’s keeping me sane. Somewhat.” Mark grinned. “And Jackie is still in my life. I’ve always loved him.” “I know.” “He married Adam Lewis. The four of us—” Mark reconsidered revealing his sexual behavior. “Yes? The four of you?” “Are very good friends.” Mark reached for the water and finished it. I must be nasty if I can’t even tell my shrink what I do. “Right. So we have a happy relationship with Steven,” Dr. Van Eldon held up his fingers to count, “another couple you enjoy who are your very good friends, and both of your careers are going well. Am I right?” 106

Packing Heat “Yes.” Mark replaced the empty bottle on the table. “So, your main concern is Alexander.” “No. On the whole he’s a good boy. He’s a student at UCLA. He doesn’t do drugs, he’s not a criminal. He’s a good kid.” “That brings us back to growing old.” Mark groaned pathetically and closed his eyes. “You can’t change that. You can either rant and rail until you die or you can accept the fact that each of us will age.” “I’ll rant until I die.” Mark smiled. “It takes a lot of energy to do that. I think growing old gracefully is easier.” “Never.” Mark winked. “Is there anything else you need to touch on in the last few minutes?” “What do I do about Alex’s desire for an older man?” “Be there for him. He’s nineteen and a man himself. Other than giving him advice and telling him to come to you when he needs you, you can’t control him.” “Don’t say that!” Mark panicked. “What can you do, Mark? Lock him in his room?” “No. Oh, I can’t bear this.” Mark ran his hands up and down the tops of his thighs in anxiety. “Are you afraid of him being hurt?” “Yes! Or seducing one of my peers. No. That’s not a solution.” “Think back to yourself at nineteen. Could your parents control you?” Mark flinched. “I lived in terror of a beating. So, yes.” “Is that what you want for Alexander? Terror?” “No.” “Just be there for him. If he makes a mistake in judgment, catch him when he falls. You can’t stop him from doing something he wants to do.” “Oh, God…that’s not what I want to hear.” “Welcome to fatherhood.” Dr. Van Eldon stood and picked up a small book from his desk. “Do you want to get back to a weekly schedule?” “I should do.” Mark stood, straightening his jacket. The doctor seemed to be reading over his notes. “I had prescribed Prozac.” He met Mark’s stare as if waiting for an answer. 107

G.A. Hauser “My…” Mark’s cheeks grew warm. “My GP has prescribed valium for a sleeping aid.” “Oh?” “Yes. I…I do take it when I need to calm down.” “Is that what you overdosed on?” “No. I used over the counter sleeping pills and scotch.” Mark felt humiliated. “I won’t kill myself.” “Do you want Prozac again? Or Xanax?” “No. I don’t.” “I have an opening next Wednesday.” “Yes. All right. What time?” “Three.” Mark nodded. “Could you write it down? I’m in a muddle and will never remember.” He waited as the doctor filled out a card and handed it to him. “Here you go, Mark.” “Thank you.” Mark walked to the door as the doctor patted his back in comfort. “See you soon, Doctor.” Mark kept his head down as he passed through the waiting area. Another patient was there. Mark didn’t need his personal problems posted on a blog somewhere. He covered his face with his hair and hurried out. Once he was in his car, he took a moment to calm down and try to think before he started it. “Allow Alex to do what he wants? This will surely kill me.” Alex parked in a multi-story garage in the downtown core. As he walked he checked his phone messages. Oliver hadn’t called again. He’d left several voicemail messages and texted Alex to call him, but Alex felt frustrated and too young to be in a serious relationship. He loved Oliver, he only wished they’d met ten years later. After reading the directory of a lobby, Alex rode the elevator up and stuffed his hands into his pockets. He tried to get his bearings when the doors opened. A glass wall down the hall read, Larsen, Knight, Bernstein and Associates. Alex ran his hand through his hair and tucked his t-shirt into his jeans. A woman with a headset on was behind a desk. The firm’s name was behind her on the wall in bold silver letters. The place dripped of money; designer watercolors in matching silver frames, taupe leather club chairs along with glass and chrome tables, tall potted fichus trees spotlighted with inset 108

Packing Heat lighting, decorated the reception area. “Nice, Jackie. I’m impressed.” Alex approached the woman. “Hi. I’m looking for Jack Larsen.” “Do you have an appointment?” “Uh. No.” “Who shall I say is here to see him?” Alex bit his lip. “Mark Richfield.” “Just a moment, Mr. Richfield.” She tapped a few buttons on her phone. “Mr. Larsen, there’s a Mr. Mark Richfield here to see you.” Under his breath, Alex muttered, “I’m surprised he’s in.” She addressed him again, “He’ll be right out to see you.” “Thanks.” Alex roamed the room, seeing his reflection in the glass of the painting. He tried to smooth his hair from the wind. “Alex?” Spinning around, Alex felt his cock twitch at the sight of Jack in a suit. “Why did you say you were your father?” “Holy shit.” Jack glanced back at the receptionist and opened the door wider. “Come on.” Though Jack didn’t look pleased, Alex was on cloud nine. His gaze directly on Jack’s ass as he trailed him down the hall, Alex nearly bumped into a woman who was exiting another room. “Oh. Sorry,” she said. Alex stopped short to prevent colliding with her. He ended up face to face with a beautiful African American woman. “Hi,” Alex said shyly. “Sonya, this is Alex. He’s Mark Richfield’s son.” Alex had no clue how she knew his father, but assumed she did through Jack and his firm. “Mark’s son?” Sonja tapped her chin. “Are you telling me Steve and Mark have a son now?” “You know my dads?” “I know Steve Miller, that’s for sure.” She shook her head. “Now he has a son. What next?” Jack laughed at Sonja’s comment. “He still never got over you, Ms. Knight, don’t worry.” 109

G.A. Hauser “What?” Alex did a double take of Sonja. “You dated Steve?” “Eons ago. I swear I wasn’t the one who turned him gay.” “She broke his heart.” Jack smiled. “Steve?” Alex couldn’t imagine Steve with a woman. “I am so jealous. I wish I could count Steve as a conquest.” “What did he just say?” Sonja gaped at Jack. “Nothing.” Jack grabbed Alex’s shoulder and escorted him down the hall. “Go.” While Alex walked by he admired Sonja with new respect. “Lucky…” “Go!” Jack pushed him into an office. “Now I’ve heard everything,” Sonja said as she left. Jack closed the door and pointed to a chair. “Sit.” “Can I sit on your lap?” “No.” Jack moved behind the desk. “Why are you here? What did you do?” “Other than being bored shitless, nothing.” Alex didn’t sit, he stalked Jack. Holding up his hand, Jack prevented him. “I said sit down or go.” “Fine.” Alex flopped down on the chair across from Jack, leaning both arms on the desk. Once Jack made himself comfortable he asked, “Why are you here?” “Can’t I just come for a visit, Jackie-blue?” “No. I know you too well.” His cock hard as a rock, Alex couldn’t sit still. He slithered around the desk and stared into Jack’s eyes. “Blue. So blue.” “Alex,” Jack shook his head and moaned. “Go away.” “Is that why Dad calls you Jackie-blue? Because of your eyes?” “I’m too busy for this. I won’t be suckered into touching you again. Please go.” “I apologized for that. I was wrong. You didn’t want to touch me.” Alex’s cock throbbed as he squatted close to Jack’s knees. “I want you to be willing.” “I’m not. I’m going to call your father.” Jack picked up the phone on his desk. “No. Don’t.” Alex stopped him. “Look, Alex,” Jack breathed loudly, “I’m not cheating on Adam, I’m not betraying Steve or your father, so whatever you thought you were doing by 110

Packing Heat coming here and seducing me, it won’t work.” “Please?” Alex pouted out his lower lip dramatically. “No.” “Jackie…” Alex held Jack’s knees and spun his chair around. “Oh, God. No.” Jack leapt out of his chair like it was on fire. He picked up his phone and began dialing. “Okay. I’m going.” “I am telling Mark about this,” Jack warned, hanging up the phone. “I don’t care.” Alex walked to the door, looking back over his shoulder at a quaking Jack. “Shame, He-man. I really thought we could have fun together.” Alex ran his hand down his hard-on. “Call Oliver.” Jack panted for air. “Jack.” Alex put his hands on his hips. “I’m nineteen. Were you in a committed relationship at nineteen? Give me a break.” “Yes. I was madly in love with your father.” “A lot of good all that celibacy did you.” “Let me get back to work. Go back to campus, do some extra credit or something, Alexander. Stop looking for trouble.” “I’m not looking for trouble. The school is closed for winter break. I’m looking for sex with someone I love.” “Jesus!” Jack paled. “Go!” Trying not to feel rejected, Alex left Jack’s office. He struggled to recall the way out and past offices as he did. Through a glass wall Alex spotted a handsome man on the phone behind another impressive desk. He leaned back to read the name on a plaque on the wall. Pete Harrison, Associate, was etched in a brass plate. They met gazes. Before he could make his intentions known to the man, Alex felt hands on his shoulders. “Move.” Jack guided him out. “What about that guy?” Alex asked. “He’s in a relationship. Alex, will you control yourself?” Before he could respond, Alex found himself alone in the corridor. Jack didn’t even say goodbye as he retreated. Feeling like he was about to explode, Alex pushed the call button for the elevator and left the building. On his walk back to the parking garage he spotted a police officer directing traffic around a minor fender-bender. Alex checked him out. “Nice!” Alex hung 111

G.A. Hauser out on the corner watching him. Tow trucks with overhead lights flashing backed up to the wrecked cars as traffic came to a halt for them. The cop asked Alex, “Do you need to cross?” “Yes.” “Go ahead.” Alex drew closer to get a better look at him. The cop appeared to be in his mid-thirties, clean shaven and rugged. Mm. What is it about uniforms? “You single?” Alex asked. “What?” The cop seemed perplexed. “Want a blowjob?” “Keep moving!” “Pat me down?” Alex took another step across the street. “Move, kid!” Stunned he kept being rejected, Alex mumbled, “Christ, can’t even give it away.” Alex had parked near the farthest wall of the garage. His dick was throbbing and he was hornier than hell. He unlocked his car, sat behind the wheel and had a look around the area. Since the coast was clear, he unzipped his jeans and wriggled his stiff dick out of them. Clear drops were oozing from the slit. He tore a piece of paper from a notebook and intended on using it to catch the mess. “Jackie, you have no idea what you do to me.” He spun sideways and rested his head against the driver’s door. Closing his eyes, Alex ran his hand along the length of his erection and visualized sucking Jack’s cock. He jumped out of his skin when the vibration and noise of knuckles rapped against the glass behind him sharply. It was then he spotted his father’s TVR blocking his car in. Alex stuffed his cock back into his pants. “Alexander!” Mark showed his teeth. “Yeah, yeah, hang on.” Mark crossed his arms and tapped his foot loudly on the cement. Alex started the car and rolled down the window. “Let me guess. Jackie called you.” “What the devil did you try to do to him?” “Doesn’t matter. He said no.” “And now? Playing with yourself in a public parking garage?” 112

Packing Heat “I’ve got to do something!” “Get home this instant!” “Whatever.” Alex put his safety belt on. “Do I need to follow you?” “No.” “You drive me to my wit’s end, Alexander.” “Move your car, Dad.” Alex rolled his eyes. “Home!” “Calm down. Give me a break.” Alex waited as his father got into his car and backed up. “Great. What now? I need a babysitter?” He put the car in gear and pulled out, looking at his father in the rear view mirror. “Lucky fucker. You? Everyone wants to fuck you. You point to someone? They’re on their knees. Me?” Alex cursed in frustration. “Do I have to pay for it? What the fuck?” Once he was on the main streets, he headed to their house in Bel Air. When he noticed his father was no longer behind him, he exhaled in relief. Alex didn’t want to go home. He daydreamed at a red traffic signal and woke up when it turned green. Before he turned off the main road, he spotted a patrol car behind him. Sitting up, trying to see the occupant, he made out the figure of a male and recognized him as the officer directing traffic earlier. “Son of a bitch.” Alex’s cock grew again. “Right. What do I do to get you to pull me over?” He hit the gas, turned right and didn’t use his signal. As he bit his lip and slowed down, Alex spotted the black and white with its overhead lights flashing behind him. “Yes! Come get me, copper!” He pulled over and rolled down his window, massaging his crotch as he salivated, his gaze on the side mirror. “Oh, baby, baby.” The cop approached Alex’s car. Just before he spoke, the officer blinked and said, “You?” “Hi.” “License, insurance card and registration.” “Yes, Officer.” Alex removed his wallet for his two cards, and reached into the glove box for his registration. “Here, Officer Lee.” Alex read his name tag. “Sergeant Lee.” The man didn’t smile. “Stay in the car.” Licking his lips as he watched the cop return to his patrol car, Alex 113

G.A. Hauser squirmed in the seat. “Sergeant? I got a sergeant? Yes!” Alex took off his seatbelt. His heart was beating like a drum in his chest. Opening the door, he stood beside his car and stared at the cop. “Get back in your car!” Alex grinned and shook his head. When the cop emerged with his hand on the butt of his gun, Alex gasped. “Holy shit!” He held up his hands. “Don’t shoot me!” “Get back in your car!” Trying to overcome the intimidation of being killed by mistake, Alex gulped and placed his hands on the roof of his Mustang, spreading his legs. He inhaled for courage and looked back at the sergeant. Sgt. Lee approached him warily. “I don’t believe this!” “Don’t you want to check to see if I have a weapon?” Alex licked his top lip seductively. “I heard this town had some strange people in it,” Sgt. Lee stood behind Alex and pushed him against the car, “But you take the cake, kid.” “I have something in my pants. Check.” Alex closed his eyes and shivered. “You think this is a game?” “God no. I’m seriously hot for you.” Alex felt his pants grow damp and widened his stance. “Come on. You know you want to touch me.” “I have news for you. I don’t.” The sergeant ran his hands quickly around Alex in what felt like a cursory check for weapons. “Now, get in the car.” “That’s it?” Alex looked back at him. “That’s all I get?” “You’re about to get arrested.” Sgt. Lee held Alex by the back of his shirt and began coaxing him to the car door. “Now get in and sit still!” “Please don’t tell me you’re not even going to let me do anything to you.” Alex moaned. Sgt. Lee opened the driver’s door for him and gestured for Alex to sit. “Now.” Alex obeyed, leaning back as Sgt. Lee closed the door. “If you get out again, I’m going to arrest you for failing or refusing to comply with a peace officer. You got that?” “Yeah.” Alex kicked his shoe against the brake pedal and sulked. A minute later a ticket book and pen was handed through his window. He sat up. “What’s this?” “It’s a ticket for improper use of signal. Sign here.” 114

Packing Heat “You gave me a ticket?” “You wanted the attention of a cop. You got it. Sign it.” “Holy shit.” Alex read the citation. “Can’t you pretend I didn’t do it?” “You don’t have to sign it.” “Good.” “If you don’t sign it, you have to come down to the precinct with me.” “Shit.” Alex took his pen and scribbled his name on the bottom line. The sergeant tore off a copy and handed it and all his other paperwork to him. “Have a nice day.” Alex signaled before he merged into traffic. “Steve’s going to kill me.” Though Mark had a few appointments lined up for the week following the holidays, he felt as if he hadn’t accomplished anything. It seemed as if life stopped until January second. Most offices were closed between December twenty-fourth and New Year’s Day and the ones who lingered seemed unreceptive during the madness of the season to accept new accounts. His head propped up in his palm, Mark lost focus and felt tired from the morning session with his shrink and then Alex’s antics. “Penny for your thoughts?” Danny stood at the open door of Mark’s office. Mark woke up and corrected his posture. “You don’t want to know.” Danny sat down and scooted the chair closer to Mark’s desk. “Don’t I?” “I hate the holidays. Am I the only one?” “No.” Danny smiled. “Everyone does. Shh. It’s a secret.” “How are you and Pete doing?” Mark was glad for the distraction. “Good. We’re not moving in together yet, but I’m madly in love.” Mark gave him a generous grin. “Isn’t that a nice feeling?” “Oh, yeah.” “How about your brother? Is he still seeing Bruno?” “So far.” “Well, it looks like all my friends have found the loves of their lives.” “Is that a bad thing?” Danny tilted his head. “No. I just wish my son would. I thought he had. He’s driving me crazy. Never mind.” 115

G.A. Hauser Danny stood, scooting out the chair. “Ah, yes. Kids. I suppose they are a challenge. Especially when you didn’t raise him from scratch. You know what I mean?” “I don’t think he’d be better off. I think I would have made him psychotic.” “Bull shit.” “You don’t know the half of it.” “Come here.” Mark made eye contact. Danny held out his arms. Rising from his place behind the desk, Mark received Danny’s inviting gesture. They embraced and rocked together. “Mm. Mark Richfield, you are like hugging a fire cracker.” Smiling, Mark closed his eyes and never refused a chance to be snuggled. “Oh!” He blinked. “Daniel!” “Can’t help it. Yes, I’m with Pete, but my dick has a mind of its own.” Mark tried to back his hips from Danny. “Where’re you going?” Danny pushed his crotch into Mark’s. “Two more seconds.” “Cheeky monkey.” Mark chuckled. “Mmm!” Danny gave a good grind against Mark and released him. “God, you’re such an aphrodisiac. Your scent, your feel…holy crap, Richfield.” Flattered, Mark batted his lashes shyly. “Go before we both get in trouble.” “I feel high.” Danny played up losing his balance, reaching out his arms and staggering to the door. Mark smiled. It was nice to be desired. “Man. If I were single and you were single. What a night it would be.” Danny rubbed his crotch and showed his desire with an expression of ecstasy. “Thank you, love. I needed that.” “Anytime.” Danny winked and walked away. Mark noticed Steve standing near the opening of the door. “Closing time?” Mark asked. “Yes.” Steve entered the office. “What’s with…uh…Don?” “Daniel.” Mark laughed. “Steven, you don’t know the difference between them by now? I thought you completely had it sussed.” “Not really. I just get lucky when I guess.” 116

Packing Heat “What an observant cop you are.” Mark shut down his computer. “Speaking of cops…” Steve snaked his arm around Mark’s waist. “What do you say I get the old uniform out tonight?” A surge of electricity passed through Mark’s groin. “Pretty please?” “Grrr…” Steve chewed on Mark’s neck. “Let’s go home, gorgeous.” Mark tried to tame his libido as Steve headed to the hall. Once he joined him, Mark whispered, “Pat me up, pat me down.” It made Steve moan in agony. “Goodnight boys!” Mark waved to his co-workers as he left, receiving well wishes for a good night in return. “It’s a waste of time working this week.” Steve poked the elevator call button, gesturing to the Christmas decorations that were everywhere, every place. “No one wants to meet until after the New Year.” Soft Christmas melodies were playing over the music system in the hall. “Yes. I found the same thing.” Mark entered the elevator when the doors slid open. “The building seems vacant. And I’m sick to death of the Christmas Carols. Are we the only idiots working at all?” The minute they were closed in, Steve lunged for Mark, pressing him against the back wall. Instantly Mark remembered Sharon Tice sucking his cock in the elevator of her office building after they had just met. He was an architect at the time and bid on a project for her father’s firm. Sharon chased Mark after his presentation, stopped the elevator between floors and gave him a wild blowjob. Ironically at the time, Mark had envisioned a uniformed cop doing it to him. It was the only way he could come. That hot recurring dream in which he was molested by one of the boys in blue was what kept him hard for nearly all of his female liaisons. Steve massaged Mark’s groin. He leaned back to see Mark’s expression. “No good?” “If I tell you why I’m not erect you’ll be upset.” Backing up, Steve glanced at the illuminated lights as they blinked on their descent. “You were hard a minute ago when I talked about the uniform.” Mark rubbed his forehead as they arrived on the floor to the parking garage. “I’ve so much on my mind. I can’t think, Steven.” Steve stayed quiet as they walked to Mark’s car. It wasn’t until they were enclosed in the compartment that Steve stopped Mark from starting the engine. “What happened at your shrink appointment?” 117

G.A. Hauser “Oh, that,” Mark scoffed, “If that was my only problem.” “Talk to me.” Facing his knees towards Steve, Mark said, “Jack rung me.” “And?” “He caught me just as I was headed back to work from Dr. Van Eldon’s office.” Steve splayed out his hands in a gesture for Mark to keep talking. “Alexander stopped by Jack’s office.” “Why?” Mark didn’t reply, merely staring at Steve. Steve got it. “No.” “Yes.” “I’ll kill him.” “I found Alex in the parking garage across from Jack’s office, masturbating.” “In the parking garage?” “In his car, in the garage.” “Geez!” Steve ran his hand through his hair. “What am I going to do about him?” “I’ll have a talk with him. He has to leave Jack alone.” Mark sat straight and stared at the cement wall with his reserved space number on it. “Alex needs to do that at home. He could get arrested for lewd conduct if he’s caught.” Steve rested his hand on Mark’s leg. “Steven.” Mark’s eyes teared up. “I’m really at the end of my rope with Alexander.” “Shh. Baby. Calm down.” Steve reached for him in the small space. “Do you want me to drive?” “Yes. Please.” Steve climbed out and walked around the car, opening the door for Mark. Steve kissed him and rubbed Mark’s arm to console him, waiting for Mark to get in before he started the TVR. Once Steve had them moving in the right direction, Mark held his hand, craving peace in his life. 118

Packing Heat Steve was furious but tried to be externally calm for Mark’s benefit. It seemed no amount of discussions were getting through to Alex. Both he and Mark assumed once Alex met Oliver, the problem was solved. Maybe that’s too high of an expectation for any nineteen year old. When Steve pulled into their driveway he spotted the red Mustang. Opening the garage door with the remote, Steve parked Mark’s car next to his in the garage and shut off the ignition. “Let me handle it.” “Yes, Steven.” “Go inside, get naked, and rest. I’ll take care of everything.” “I love you.” Cupping Mark’s head, Steve drew him close and kissed him. “Dig my uniform out. Handcuffs are in the closet on the top shelf.” “I know where they are.” Steve walked with Mark to the door connecting the kitchen, caressing his bottom as he did. “Go. Don’t even say hello to him.” “All right, love.” “Dad?” Steve directed Mark to keep walking silently, nudging him to the stairs. He and Mark met eyes for a minute as Mark headed to their bedroom. Untying his necktie, Steve located Alex in the den watching Dexter on TiVo. “Oh. Hi, Steve. Where’s Dad?” Steve tossed his jacket and necktie on a chair and stood at the doorway, arms crossed. “Uh oh. You know?” “Yes.” Steve pointed to the remote. “Shut the TV.” Looking anxious, Alex did what Steve asked. “Man, you cops must have some network.” Though he was about to lecture Alex about Jack, the comment set him back. He threw out a bluff. “We do. Why did you do it?” “I don’t know.” “You better tell me your version.” Steve had a bad feeling Jack wasn’t the worst of the problem. “It was stupid.” Alex unfolded a piece of paper. 119

G.A. Hauser Steve recognized it immediately as a traffic citation. He held out his hand. Alex handed it to him. “You didn’t use a turn signal?” “Stupid, huh?” “You’re paying for the fine out of your allowance.” “I figured I would be.” “I want the whole story.” Steve read the involved officer’s name and serial number on the bottom and recognized it. He tossed the citation down on the coffee table. “What do you know?” Alex looked terrified. “Everything. You think Sgt Lee is going to pull you over and not tell me every detail?” “Jesus, Steve! Nearly ten thousand cops on the LA department and you know this one?” “Alex! What did you do?” “I was joking!” “I’m going to kill you.” Steve snarled. “Tell me now.” Alex hopped to his feet and drew closer, most definitely about to confess something Steve did not want to hear. “Hold me.” “Not yet.” Steve held up his hand. “What. Did. You. Do?” Steve enunciated. Alex rubbed his face and ran both his hands back through his long hair as if in turmoil. “I just did it for a kick. You know?” “If you don’t tell me this instant—” “I wanted him to pat me down. Okay?” Alex threw up his hands. Steve immediately thought of his father doing the same thing. To him. Years ago. “I kinda met him when I left Jackie’s office.” Alex peeked at him sheepishly. “I assume you already know about my visit to Jackie.” “Yes.” “Well, the cop, I mean the sergeant, was directing traffic while a tow truck…well, I sort of said…I…” Steve counted to ten in his head to calm down. “I propositioned him.” Alex flinched as if he expected a smack. Steve waited. “Then when Dad found me doin’, uh…you already know what I was doing 120

Packing Heat in the parking garage, right?” His jaw was clenched so tightly Steve’s teeth ached. “Well, after Dad yelled at me and I headed home, this same cop was behind me in traffic. I didn’t signal on purpose.” The vision of Mark’s actions years ago, of Mark getting out of the car during the stop, of Steve ordering Mark back in, of Mark spreading his hands and feet for a pat-down, flooded Steve. “I…I got out of the car when he said to stay in it…” A ringing sensation came to Steve’s ears. The déjà vu was intense. Alex’s words were lost to him. During one of he and Mark’s first sexual encounters after meeting Mark at a business retreat in the New Mexican desert, Steve had Mark handcuffed, naked, and begging for sex while Steve was in uniform. “And…he gave me a ticket.” “You’re grounded.” “Steve!” “Get in your room. No DVDs, no TV, no computer. Give me your car keys.” “What? What’s left?” Alex handed over his keys. “No mobile phone.” Steve nudged him. “Now.” “No phone? What if I make up with Oliver?” “No. Go.” Steve picked up his jacket and tie and kept prodding Alex. “For how long? Come on, Steve.” “Move!” Steve pushed Alex towards the staircase. “You cops suck!” Alex stomped up the stairs. “Keep that up and it’ll be a month.” Passing the closed bedroom door, Steve imagined Mark naked, waiting for him. He stood at Alex’s room. “Hand everything over.” “You suck!” “Now, Alexander.” Alex picked up his laptop and mobile phone. Steve removed the cordless from the cradle from Alex’s nightstand, then took the other items. “Read until dinner.” “Read?” “You heard me.” Steve closed the door behind him and walked to his room. His first sight of Mark naked in bed, the uniform and handcuffs lain out on the foot, made Steve’s cock perk up instantly. He placed the electronics on 121

G.A. Hauser the dresser and his jacket and tie on a chair near the closet. As Mark opened his mouth to speak, Steve stopped him. “After.” The last thing Steve wanted to do was discuss Alex. Mark smiled. “Lock the door.” Steve flipped the latch as he stripped. Once he was naked, he hopped on one leg getting his old uniform trousers on. “Christ, I’ll never get the zipper shut over this raging hard-on you’re giving me.” Mark raised his hands over his head, crossing his wrists. “Cuff me.” “Holy shit.” Steve pinched the base of his dick to slow down the urge to come. Taking a moment to retreat from the edge, Steve wrestled his dick into his pants and dove into his shirt, zipping it closed. He tucked it into his pants and grabbed the cuffs. “Oh, Richfield…you are to die for.” Mark held out his hands as Steve ratcheted them on. Using the key, Steve locked them so they wouldn’t tighten and hurt Mark. “Are we still using the same safe words? ‘Hey, copper’?” Steve asked. “That’s what we usually do.” “Yes.” Mark thrust out his hips. His cock was engorged, the veins showing through the reddish color and clear drops were running down the head. “Why did we wait so long to do this again?” Steve set the key on the nightstand and removed the lubrication. “I’m innocent.” Mark writhed on the bed. “Officer, you have arrested the wrong man. I’m not a criminal.” He stretched his arms over his head again, bending his knees and shielding his cock from view. Battling with Alex’s story for only a second, Steve forced that junk from his mind and got a good look at Richfield senior who was far superior to his son in every way. Especially in seduction. Steve reached for Mark’s waist, pulling him off the bed. “Face away from me.” Mark whimpered and stood next to the bed, leaning over it. The sight of Mark’s ass had Steve swooning. “Lock your fingers, hands behind your head.” He made Mark stand, assisting him into getting into a submissive position. “Spread your legs…more.” Steve tapped Mark’s feet with his own, making Mark straddle to a precarious degree. Mark was in the regulation pat-down position. Perfection. With one hand holding Mark’s handcuffed hands in place behind his head, Steve began his exploration of Mark’s body. He ran his fingers over Mark’s cheek, down Mark’s neck to his shoulder. 122

Packing Heat “Ahh…” Mark moaned. Steve felt his cock spurt pre-cum and kept going. He rounded Mark’s pectoral muscles, feeling them twitch under his palm. Mark’s nipples were erect, like pencil erasers. “I didn’t do it, Officer. I’m innocent.” “That’s what they all say.” Steve ran his hand down Mark’s sternum to his abdomen. Each ripple of Mark’s six-pack made Steve’s cock throb. Almost forgetting it was a pat-down, Steve was about to go for Mark’s dick, remembering at the last minute to pretend to be professional. He tugged on the cuffs, making Mark arch backwards, completely off-balancing him. “Bloody yes!” Mark breathed. Steve smoothed his hand down Mark’s long, lean leg. Mark as so sinewy and cut, Steve almost came in his dark blue pants. He cupped Mark’s ass. Mark tensed his glute muscles. Unable to resist, Steve traced his index finger along Mark’s crack before he ran his hand down his second leg. In between Mark’s thighs, Steve pressed the back of his hand against Mark’s balls. Their heat and softness drove Steve out of his mind. The willpower Steve needed to keep up the game and not break character was waning. Using the back of his hand, Steve stroked Mark’s sack. “Ahh…Ahhh…” “Are you coming?” Steve asked. “So close…Steven.” Steve spun Mark around. A string of pre-cum was dripping from Mark’s cock. Getting to his knees, Steve lapped it up, sucking Mark as he held Mark’s narrow hips in his hands. “Steven! Ah! Ah!” Mark howled in pleasure as he climaxed. His mouth filling with Mark’s delicious cum, Steve gripped that large cock in both hands and devoured it. He sucked hard and deep, feeling Mark’s knees buckle as he strained to keep upright. As the throbbing subsided, Steve drew Mark’s cock out to the tip, lapping at the head as he milked out the last few drops. “Face down on the bed.” Steve pushed Mark so he fell against the mattress. “Spread ‘em.” Mark parted his legs, wide. “Fuck.” Steve reached into his pants and held off spontaneous combustion. Mark tried to see over his shoulder, through his mane of hair. “Don’t come 123

G.A. Hauser near me, you nasty cop.” “Oh, that’s it.” Steve yanked his pants down and grabbed the lube. “No one talks to me like that.” “No. I forbid it.” “Do you?” Steve laughed, coating himself. “Yes. I have rights.” Steve roughly raised Mark’s hips into the air. “I’ll give you rights. My dick right up your ass.” He entered Mark with a slick finger, hearing a muffled cry as if Mark was chewing the bedspread. Steve found Mark’s sweet spot and rubbed two fingers over it. Mark’s body reacted, jerking to get Steve in deeper. “Face up! Face up!” Steve heeded Mark’s frantic call, spinning Mark to his back and pushing Mark’s legs upward. Mark choked for air, his long hair covering his face, his hands over his head. Steve finger-fucked him, staring at Mark’s expression, and his fabulous dick. Mark’s gaze was riveted to Steve’s uniform. Stuffing four fingers into Mark’s ass, Steve opened him up for the taking. Mark pressed his head into the mattress and elevated his hips, his dick pulsating once again with an erection. “You can’t have it.” “Can’t I?” “No. I said no! Get away from me you nasty pig.” Steve wished he had read that diary months ago. This was sublime. “Fuck you, scumbag.” Steve removed his fingers and pushed the head of his dick inside Mark’s slick hole. “No.” “That didn’t convince anyone,” Steve mocked. “You prick. You love it.” Mark showed his teeth and closed his eyes as he thrust from beneath and caused Steve’s cock to penetrate to the hilt. Inside Mark’s tight, velvety ass, Steve felt a wave of pleasure begin in his balls. It was a tsunami he knew he could not stop. “Oh shit…” Mark went wild under him. “Steven! Touch me!” Steve grabbed Mark’s dick in both hands and rode him like a broncobuster. His mind had ceased to work as all his blood and attention was on his impending climax. The intensity had Steve about to pass out. “Faster!” 124

Packing Heat Hearing Mark, on autopilot, Steve jacked Mark off and began an orgasm that felt as if it originated at his toes. He hammered into Mark’s ass and with each thrust Steve shot out cum and shivered, his grunts choking in his throat. Through his dull senses, Steve felt Mark trying to get him to fist him harder. Steve did, becoming a machine, fucking and jerking Mark to heaven. “Ah! Bloody hell!” When Mark came for a second time, Steve gasped and watched him. Cream spattered Mark’s rippled chest as Mark shook his head in denial at what Steve imagined was one hell of a blast. With Mark’s cock pulsating in his palms, Steve ground his dick inside Mark for the last wave. After it subsided, Steve released Mark’s cock and fell to his knees beside the bed, gulping air. Once he was able to function, Steve wiped his drenched face with his upper arm and watched Mark rocking his body side to side, moaning. Staggering to his feet, Steve could barely see the key, let alone use it. He crawled over the bed and unlocked the cuffs, removing them. Mark pushed his hair off his face. He too was soaked in perspiration. Stripping off the uniform shirt, Steve dropped on top of Mark and embraced him, rolling on the bed gently with him. “I love you. I love you.” Mark chuckled, “You’re welcome.” It was an old joke between them. Steve grinned at him happily. “I love you too, my dearest.” Mark kissed him.

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Chapter Six It was nearing seven and though Mark would have loved to just cuddle with Steve all night, Steve suggested dinner. “You’re lucky this was such a workout or we’d be running before we eat.” Steve tugged on Mark’s nipple. “I hate running in the dark.” “Tough.” “Thank you, Steven. That was fabulous.” Mark kissed Steve’s wedding ring affectionately. “I never get tired of making love to you.” Steve stroked Mark’s hair back from his face. “Nor I you. You know you’re my fantasy man. You always will be.” A flicker of a smile flashed over Steve’s face, but seriousness took over. “Mark.” “What?” Mark felt his stomach tighten. “I need to speak to you about Alex.” “Talk to me as we clean up.” Mark rolled off the bed and walked to the bathroom, dreading what Steve would say about Alex and his encounter with Jack. Turning on the shower, Mark leaned back so he didn’t wet his hair and rinsed his skin. “I’m listening. What did Alex do to poor Jackie?” Steve stepped into the tub behind him. “It’s not about Jack. Alex propositioned a cop.” Mark spun around abruptly. “He did what?” Steve gently exchanged places with Mark to get under the spray. “He purposely didn’t use his turn signal while he had a patrol car behind him.” “It’s from my diary. Steven, he’s trying to do what I did to you.” Steve shut the water and opened the sliding door. “I wouldn’t blame yourself.” Mark handed him a towel and used one to wipe his face. “What have I

Packing Heat done? I’ve given him terrible ideas.” “Mark, cut it out.” He stepped out of the shower and rubbed himself down. “He should have stayed with Iris. Look what a mess he is. His step-father would have had control over his behavior. With me he’s going wild.” “Are you shitting me?” Steve blinked. “You think Alex would be better off with a drunken homophobe who beat him rather than live with us?” “He has no rules here. He’s going to get worse and worse.” Steve tossed the towel over the shower door and held Mark by the shoulders. “Look at me.” Mark tried not to be terrified by his thoughts. He met Steve’s baby blues and held his breath. “We have control. I grounded him. I took away his toys and he’s in his room. He got a ticket and he’ll pay for it out of his money.” “Will the cop do something to him for what he did?” “I doubt it. I know the guy.” “Oh, God, Steven. He’s nineteen. Dr. Van Eldon said Alex is a man and we can’t really control his actions.” “That’s true to a certain extent. But while he lives here, we do have some choices.” Steve left the bathroom and removed clean briefs from a drawer. Mark folded his towel and hung it from the rack, taking a brush and taming his locks as he watched Steve dress. “What will we do if he gets arrested?” “He’s not going to get arrested. Will you calm down?” Mark tossed the brush on the sink counter and stared at the uniform as it lay on the floor. “Are we a terrible influence on him?” “Why? Because we have a good sex life?” Steve picked the dark clothing up and stuffed it into the hamper. “Mark, get dressed. I’ll see what I can do about dinner.” “Yes. All right.” Mark couldn’t think straight. After Steve left he stared at the floor, too many intruding problems running through his mind. Mark could hear Steve and Alex talking when he drew closer to the bottom floor. They stopped when Alex noticed him walking in. Mark glared at his son. “Wow. The evil eye.” Alex sat at the kitchen table, a bottle of water in his 127

G.A. Hauser hand as Steve prepared dinner. “I’m speechless, Alexander.” Mark checked what Steve was doing and helped him clean vegetables for a salad. “Why? You did the exact same thing. But you got lucky enough to have Steve grope you.” Pointing a carrot at Alex, Mark said, “Do not make my mistakes. Stop reading my diary. I should burn it.” “Just hide it someplace else.” Steve took the carrot from Mark and sliced it up. “Yeah, Dad, we don’t need all the drama.” Mark gaped at Steve. “Is he kidding me?” Steve said, “Don’t talk to your father like that. If it were my dad, you’d have been belted in the teeth for that comment.” “Been there.” Alex waved them off. “You two are pussycats compared to my fake dad.” “You still don’t have to take advantage of us because of it, love.” Mark deseeded a red bell pepper, rinsing it under the tap. “Here, Steven.” “Thanks.” “How do I have sex with a cop, Dad?” “You don’t.” Steve replied, “I’ll loan you my uniform. You and Oliver can play.” Mark waited to see if that had any effect on his son. It did appear Alex was considering it. “Are you even on speaking terms with Oliver any longer? Or has he given up and moved on?” “I don’t know.” Alex pouted. “Steve took my phone privileges away so I’m clueless.” “That was five minutes ago.” Steve filled a bowl with the chopped vegetables. “Don’t try that guilt crap on me.” “Well?” Alex said, “If I knew you were going to loan me a cop outfit I’d call Oliver and ask him if he’d wear it.” “Call him.” Mark tilted his head to the phone on the kitchen counter. “Can I, Steve?” “One call.” Alex jumped off the chair and grabbed it. As Alex walked out of the kitchen, Mark heard him say, “Oliver? It’s me.” Mark stood beside Steve to whisper, “I hope Oliver forgives him. I can’t take 128

Packing Heat much more of this.” “It did prove something though.” “What? That my son is a degenerate?” “No.” Steve wiped his hands on a towel and made sure Alex wasn’t listening. He cupped Mark’s face in his hands. “It proves you are much more attractive than your nineteen year old son.” “How did it do that?” “Think about it.” Steve drew Mark closer until they were connected at the crotch. “Last weekend, at the party? Everyone flirted with you. Josh, Mick, Jeff…” Mark recalled their compliments and struggled to understand Steve’s point. “And Jack? He’s at your sexual beck and call. You snap your fingers, Jack will be in your bed.” Mark smiled. “And Danny and Donny?” Steve ran his hand through Mark’s hair. “If they were single? What did one of those twins say?” “You heard that?” Mark grinned wryly at his husband. “Mm hmm.” Steve ground his hips into Mark’s. “Now, look at your son. The kid can’t give it away.” Turning back, Mark made sure Alex was still occupied. “I remember patting you down, gorgeous.” Steve purred and ground his hard-on into Mark’s. “I was hotter than hell after.” “Steven.” Mark felt his cheeks burn. “And? Need one more?” “Go on,” Mark teased. “A hit cable TV series is still after you to do another show.” “Do you say all the right things or what?” Mark laughed. “Am I lying?” Mark shook his head. “Anything else to stroke my sagging ego?” “Yeah. You got me.” “Growl!” Mark wriggled his hips against Steve’s this time. “That’s the grand prize.” “Thank you.” Steve looked over Mark’s shoulder. Mark turned to see Alex returning. “Well?” He backed away from Steve. 129

G.A. Hauser “He’s game if I delete the photo from Facebook.” “You’re lucky, Alex,” Steve said as he returned to the counter and the food. “Not every boyfriend would take you back.” “I’m glad he is. No one else wants me.” “Oh, poor baby. Come here.” Mark reached for him. Alex fell against him and Mark could feel his sigh. “You’re so lucky, Dad. Everyone wants you.” “I am lucky. I have to remember that. But, Alexander, you’re young and can learn to be lucky. Am I right?” Alex leaned back to stare into Mark’s eyes. “Right.” “That’s my baby.” Mark cuddled him. “So? I’m no longer grounded?” “Wrong.” Steve removed ground chicken from the refrigerator. “One week.” “Brute.” Alex pouted out his lower lip. “Go help him with making dinner.” Mark released Alex. “What are we having?” Alex stared at the bowl of chopped meat. “Burgers. Wash your hands.” “Okay.” Mark met Steve’s eyes and gave him a wink. Yes. Steve’s right. There really isn’t anything to complain about. Though Alex has youth on his side, I have experience. “Right?” Steve met his eyes and though he didn’t hear his thoughts, he said, “Right.” Mark held Steve’s waist and moved him so their crotches could rub again. Whispering into Steve’s ear, Mark asked, “You packing heat, Officer? Or just happy to see me?” “Packing heat. And later I’ll be packing fudge.” “Oh!” Mark blinked. “Guys!” Alex moaned. “I can hear you.” “Good. It’ll give you some good pick-up lines for Oliver.” Steve kissed Mark on the nose and continued preparing dinner. “True.” Alex laughed. “Packing heat. Good one, Dad.” He stuck his tongue out at Steve. “But fudge-packing? Man, you can’t do better than that, Officer Miller?” 130

Packing Heat Mark laughed. “See? That’s what you get when you marry a cop. Crass behavior.” “Got that right.” Steve humped Mark’s leg. Mark smiled at Alex and Alex winked back. The End

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About the Author Award-winning author G.A. Hauser was born in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, USA and attended university in New York City. She moved to Seattle, Washington where she worked as a patrol officer with the Seattle Police Department. In early 2000 G.A. moved to Hertfordshire, England where she began her writing in earnest and published her first book, In the Shadow of Alexander. Now a full-time writer, G.A. has written over fifty novels, including several bestsellers of gay fiction and is an Honorary Board Member of Gay American Heroes for her support of the foundation. For more information on other books by G.A., visit the author at her official website. www.authorgahauser.com

The G.A. Hauser Collection Available Now Single Titles Unnecessary Roughness Got Men? Heart of Steele All Man Julian Black Leather Phoenix In The Dark and What Should Never Be, Erotic Short Stories Mark and Sharon (formerly titled A Question of Sex) A Man’s Best Friend It Takes a Man The Physician and the Actor For Love and Money The Kiss Naked Dragon Secrets and Misdemeanors Capital Games Giving Up the Ghost To Have and To Hostage Love you, Loveday The Boy Next Door When Adam Met Jack Exposure The Vampire and the Man-eater Murphy's Hero Mark Antonious deMontford Prince of Servitude

Calling Dr Love The Rape of St. Peter The Wedding Planner Going Deep Double Trouble Pirates Miller's Tale Vampire Nights Teacher's Pet In the Shadow of Alexander The Rise and Fall of the Sacred Band of Thebes

The Action Series Acting Naughty Playing Dirty Getting it in the End Behaving Badly Dripping Hot Packing Heat

Men in Motion Series Mile High Cruising Driving Hard Leather Boys

Rescue Series Man to Man Two In Two Out Top Men

G.A. Hauser Writing as Amanda Winters Sister Moonshine Nothing Like Romance Silent Reign Butterfly Suicide Mutley’s Crew