Tortured Souls

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

Tortured Souls ISBN 9781419910777 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Tortured Souls Copyright © 2008 Carol Lynne Edited by Briana St. James. Photography and cover art by Les Byerley. Electronic book Publication February 2008 With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/) This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

MEN IN LOVE:

TORTURED SOULS

Carol Lynne

Dedication I’d like to thank the readers who love the characters in this series as much as I do.

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Chapter One The deep bass of the music vibrated Bram Blackstone’s chest as he looked around the club. There wasn’t any place better to find a night of companionship than a New York City nightclub. He wasn’t kidding himself into believing he’d find Mr. Right in a place like this, he’d already found that person on a ranch in western Oklahoma. Unfortunately, Declan O’Malley didn’t want him and Bram was tired of being alone. He’d come to Bright Lights Big City to find a night of company in another man’s arms. Bram found an empty spot and leaned his tall six-foot-three-inch frame against the bar. He searched the crowd until the bartender nudged his elbow. Turning around, Bram ordered a beer with a whiskey chaser. Noticing the man’s hungry look as he took in the width of Bram’s shoulders and long black hair, Bram knew he’d be all right, at least for tonight. Just give me one night away from dreaming about Declan. That’s all I ask. The bartender set his drinks down in front of him and leaned his forearms on the scarred wooden bar in front of Bram. “Haven’t seen you in here before. I know because I definitely would’ve remembered someone as fine as you.” Bram winked at the redheaded man and picked up his whiskey. He raised his glass to the bartender. “Just looking for a little distraction for the night.” Bram put the shot glass full of amber liquid to his lips and threw back his head. When he slammed the glass down on the bar, Bram caught the hungry look on the bartender’s face again. “I’d be happy to help you out. I get off at three.” Picking up his beer, Bram started to walk away from the bar. “Thanks but I plan on getting off well before then.” He moved through the crowded club, taking in the smorgasbord of eye candy. He spotted just what he was looking for at a table in the

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corner, brownish-blond, about five-ten or -eleven. Yep. He looks enough like Declan to make me believe for the night. Walking up to the high table, Bram stood in front of Mr. Right-Now. “Dance?” The guy looked Bram up and down before breaking out in a smile and hopping off his stool. “Absolutely.” Bram led the stranger to the dance floor and wrapped his arms around him, pulling him as close as he could. Bram closed his eyes and imagined Declan in his arms. He swayed to the music, brushing his hardened bulge across the stranger’s lower stomach. The song ended, but Bram didn’t let go, and the stranger seemed in no hurry to get away. “My name’s John,” the man said as he began kissing Bram’s neck. Trying to block out what the man said, Bram moved his hands down to the two prominent globes and squeezed. He’d missed this, the press of flesh, the smell of another man. The guy in his arms seemed to crawl up Bram’s body and before he knew it, Bram was thrusting his tongue into the stranger’s mouth, while the guy ran his fingers through Bram’s hair. Breaking the kiss, he looked at the man, Joe—no, John. It was a shock to his system to see it wasn’t Declan in his arms. John didn’t have Declan’s light green eyes, or his long black curling lashes. The hair color wasn’t even right this close up. This guy had light brown hair. Declan’s hair was brown with sunkissed wisps running through it. Nothing about John other than maybe his height and body shape looked like his Declan. Bram pulled away. The man looked up at Bram in confusion. “Is something wrong? I thought we were getting along so well.” Feeling disgusted, Bram shook his head. “It’s not you. I was trying to make you into someone else. Sorry.” Bram left John standing on the dance floor with his mouth open. Walking out of the noisy club, Bram shook his head. He hailed a cab and headed home. Well, not home, but the place I’ve been living for four years. Paying the driver, Bram was greeted by the night doorman. 6

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“Evening, Mr. Blackstone,” the skinny kid of about twenty-two said. “Evening, Charlie.” Bram walked toward the elevator bank and pushed the button. Entering his apartment, Bram looked around. It was every bachelor’s dream to have a place like this. So why did Bram feel so sorry for himself? He kicked off his brown loafers and went to the kitchen. Pulling a bottle of whiskey and a highball glass down from the cupboard, he poured himself a drink. Downing his glass of whiskey in two swallows, Bram refilled it and took it and the bottle into the living room. He set them on the antique mahogany table without giving a second thought to a coaster and took off his shirt. Clad in only his tight low-rise jeans, he settled himself on the sofa and picked up his drink. Maybe I should call Thor and check on him. Thor was Bram’s baby brother. Though Bram felt more like a father after having raised Thor since the age of eleven. Bram shut his mind to the pain the memories always seemed to bring. Thor lived and worked in western Oklahoma. Instead of teaching school, which was what Thor had been trained to do, he was working at an equestrian rehabilitation center out in the middle of nowhere. Bram wasn’t selfish enough to not realize it had been a good fit for Thor. Paralyzed at the age of ten by his own parents, Thor loved helping other wheelchairbound people like himself learn to build their upper-body strength. Anyone could take one look at his brother and tell he knew what he was teaching. Thor’s arms and chest muscles were some of the biggest Bram had ever seen, which was saying a lot, considering Bram’s two best friends were well-muscled ex-Special Forces guys. Bram started thinking about his best friends. They owned the company Bram now ran. Mac and Nicco had finally gotten their act together and declared their love as two gay men. They didn’t stop there, though. Another friend of his, Amir, was now partnered with them as a threesome. They seemed to love each other very much, and Bram knew he shouldn’t be jealous, but he couldn’t help it. The threesome had bailed on the company, choosing to move to Albuquerque and set up a small bodyguard

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training facility. Bram ran the New York branch of JB Protections now. Mac and Nicco refused to live in the Big Apple. Bram knew he was stalling. Every night the inevitable happened. He’d come home have a few drinks and end up thinking about Declan. He picked up the phone and hit the memory button for Thor. “Hello.” “Hey, baby brother.” Bram poured himself another glass of whiskey and leaned back on the sofa. “Hey, big brother. How’ve you been in the big bad city all alone?” Thor chuckled. “Hardly alone.” “You mean you found someone?” “No. I haven’t found anyone. Just meant in a city this size, it’s hard to be alone.” Bram took another gulp of his drink. He was well on his way to being drunk. “It may be hard to be alone but it’s easy to be lonely, Bram. I can tell by the timbre of your voice that you’re drinking again. Why don’t you come out to Oklahoma for a visit? I miss you and I’ve also got someone I’d like you to meet.” Letting out an audible sigh, Bram closed his eyes. “You and I know the only person besides you I care to see doesn’t want me there.” “First of all, I’m not so sure about that. Doc’s been as sour as you since you left. I think you took a part of him back to New York with you. And secondly, I wasn’t trying to fix you up. I met someone special and I want you to come and meet her.” “What? You’re dating a woman?” Bram sat up and refilled his glass. “I’m sorry, Bram, but I like women. This one in particular.” “Is she in a wheelchair too?” “Fuck you. Just because you’re a nasty drunk doesn’t mean I’ll let you call and take it out on me.”

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“I’m sorry. I’m just a little confused. You’ve never had a girlfriend before. I guess I didn’t really know it was possible.” Bram put his drink down and ran his fingers through his hair. “For your information, my equipment works just fine. I’m one of the lucky ones because the paralysis hasn’t affected my ability to get an erection. Besides, I’ve dated a lot of women in the past. You were always just too damn busy to notice. It’s not like I dated anyone special but I dated. This woman though, her name is Kelly Anderson. She’s special. Kelly works here three evenings a week as a volunteer and I’d like you to meet her.” “It’s getting serious, then?” Bram should have felt elated his little brother had found someone but it just made him feel even more alone. “Yeah. I think I’m in love.” Bram could hear the wistful sound of his brother’s voice. He had to admit he’d never heard that particular tone from Thor. Rubbing the heels of his hands over his eyes, Bram sighed. “Can’t you bring Kelly to New York? I’m sorry, but I’m just not sure about seeing Declan again. I know that makes me weak in your eyes but it hurts.” “Doc’s going on a water rafting trip in two weeks. Come then.” What would Oklahoma feel like without Declan, safe or lonely? “I’ll think about it and let you know.” Bram heard the defeat in his own voice. “Just try your best, okay?” Thor asked with just a bit of pleading in his voice. “I will.” Bram said his goodbyes, and hung up the phone. He looked at the bottle of whiskey on the table and was surprised to see it was already two-thirds empty. If he was going to be coherent in the morning, it was time to stop drinking and hit the hay. Standing beside his bed, Bram peeled himself out of his tight jeans, and slipped under the covers. The problem with going to bed alone was too much time to think and the obvious hardening of his cock whenever he let his mind wander to Dr. Declan O’Malley.

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With a sigh, he finally gave in. Reaching under the covers, Bram wrapped his hand around his aching cock. Closing his eyes, he remembered the feel of Declan’s sweet lean body pressed against his, the way his perfect ass fit Bram’s hands. “Mmm,” Bram moaned as his thumb pressed the slit on the crown of his throbbing shaft. Bram used his own pre-cum to ease his strokes as he remembered the scorching kisses he’d shared with Declan. Using his other hand, Bram gave his sac a slight squeeze. Picking up his rhythm, he pushed the covers down and thrust into his own fist. His cock exploded with spurt after spurt of thick white cum, painting his chest and neck. It wasn’t until after he came that the images of Declan’s back seeped their way into Bram’s memories. The rows of thick puckered scars proved someone had hurt the man he’d fallen in love with. Bram knew those scars and how they got there were the reason Declan pushed him away. Feeling the anger of someone hurting Declan starting to overtake him, Bram shook his head and walked toward the bathroom. “I can’t keep loving someone as damaged as myself.”

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Chapter Two Bram pulled his rented pickup into the parking lot of the Timothy Fowler Rehabilitation Center. It had been two weeks since Thor’s phone call. He sat in the truck for a few minutes and let his eyes wander the ranch grounds. Gabe, Rex and Boone had done a damn fine job making the place look homey. Bram even saw Billy, Boone’s soon-to-be adopted son, by the barn playing with a Shepherdmix pup. Looking toward the rehab facility, a part of Bram hoped Declan hadn’t left yet. He wouldn’t admit it out loud but he’d taken an early flight, hoping he’d get to see Declan for a few minutes before he was off on his white-water adventure. Getting out of the truck, Bram headed to the main house with his suitcase. He’d already called Gabe to tell him he was coming for the week and had been invited to stay at the house. Usually at that time of day, the threesome was off doing chores. So Bram didn’t even think about knocking until he walked into the kitchen and spotted Rex getting a morning blowjob. Bram stopped in his tracks, feeling his face and groin heat at the scene in front of him. “Sorry. I guess I should have knocked. I’ll let you and Boone finish while I take my bag up to my room.” At Rex’s smile and grunted reply, Bram carried his bag upstairs to the guestroom he’d used several months earlier. Setting his bag on the bed, he wondered if staying in a house with three horny men was a good idea. He decided to shake it off and go find Thor. And maybe Declan, if he’d got in early enough. Walking into the rehab facility, Bram spotted Thor right away. He was busy helping a young girl on the band-weight machine. Bram found a stool and sat to watch his brother work. He could tell by the young girl’s face she had a crush on him. Bram 11

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looked at his brother as a man for the first time. He’d never really noticed his brother’s looks before, but now that he thought about it, why wouldn’t Thor have women falling all over him? Despite being in a wheelchair, Thor was a beautiful man. Their Native American heritage was evident in his bronzed skin and thick black hair. People always commented on how much the brothers looked alike but this was the first time Bram had really seen it. Except for the length of hair and the tiny lines beginning to form around Bram’s eyes, they could probably pass for twins. Bram had always known he was a goodlooking man but to see his face on someone else shocked him. Damn. I should have my pick of men. So why am I so set on the one man who doesn’t want me? Thor finished with the young girl and turned his head. “Bram.” Thor smiled and said something to the girl before wheeling over to where Bram was sitting. “You’re here early.” Bram grinned as Thor wheeled in front of him. He leaned forward and gave his baby brother a hug and kiss on the forehead. “Caught an earlier flight.” Bram pointed toward the girl. “It looked like you were both enjoying yourselves. You helping that girl and the girl drooling all over you.” Thor blushed and chuckled. “Hazard of the job.” Thor looked at Bram for a few seconds. “You look older, tired or something.” Knowing the reason for his own lack of sleep, Bram tried to play it off. “You try running a company. It’s damn hard work. I’m glad I called, though. I think I needed to get away.” Bram could see he wasn’t fooling his brother. He decided to be a little more honest. “Gets to me sometimes, being alone. Not having you there. Not having Mac, Nicco or Amir around. I keep telling myself I need to go out and make some new friends but it’s just not in me right now.” Bram clapped his hands together. “So, when do I get to meet this lady of yours?” Thor did the unexpected and reached out to cup the side of Bram’s face. Sliding his hand to the back of his neck, he pulled Bram’s head forward and rested his forehead 12

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against Bram’s in a sign of sympathy. “Move to Oklahoma and you won’t need to make new friends. I really miss you, brother. I have everything I’ve ever wanted right now, except you.” Bram felt tears threaten and pulled away from Thor. “Declan still here or did he leave already?” Thor sighed, and gestured with his head. “I think he’s in his office. He’s not leaving for another couple of hours. Why don’t you be the bigger man and stop in to say hi before he leaves? You know you’ll hate yourself if you don’t.” Bram looked toward Declan’s office, then back at Thor. He nodded his head once and stood. “I might poke my head in for just a second to say hi.” Chuckling, Thor swatted Bram on the stomach. “I’m not sure this is the best place for you to be poking your head in anywhere.” “Smartass.” Bram smiled and walked toward Declan’s office. He felt a lump forming in his throat the closer he got. Just beyond that door was the man he couldn’t stop thinking about, the only man for him. Bram knew it was stupid. How could he be in love when he knew next to nothing about Declan? But there it was, feelings like he’d never known. Wiping his now-sweaty hands on his jeans, Bram knocked. “Come in.” Bram closed his eyes at the sound of Declan’s voice. It had been so long since he’d heard that throaty whisper. Opening the door, Bram looked at Declan for the first time in one and a half months. He looked even better than Bram remembered. “Hey.” He tried to sound casual, not wanting Declan to know he felt like falling on his knees and begging for another chance. Declan looked up from the patient chart he was scribbling in. “Bram. I-I didn’t know you were coming.” Bram watched as Declan’s throat muscles worked in an effort to say something. Bram decided to take a chance. “Care if I have a seat?”

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“Oh. Oh sure, sit down. You must be tired after the flight and long drive from Oklahoma City.” Declan fiddled with the pencil on the desk. “So, are you here just to see Thor, or are you working on finding Gabe’s mother?” Declan began tapping the pencil on the scarred wood desk. Looking into Declan’s beautiful eyes, Bram forgot how to talk for a minute. “Thor called and asked me to come. He wanted to introduce me to his new lady. I’ll admit, I took an earlier flight than necessary though.” Looking at Bram, Declan stopped tapping his pencil. “Why’s that?” To see if you’d push me away again, like you did last time. “I hoped I’d have a chance to see you before you left on your vacation.” Bram leaned back in his chair a little and crossed his ankles. The resulting posture did little to hide Declan’s effect on him. Bram smiled when he caught Declan’s eyes wandering over his long, aroused body. “It’s not really a vacation. I’ve been hired to help with a rafting trip for wheelchairbound adults. If I’d known you were coming, I’d have turned it down.” Declan licked his lips, staring openly at Bram’s arousal. “I’ve missed you. I’m sorry about rejecting you that night in the barn. I just wasn’t ready.” Feeling bold, Bram rose and walked around the desk. He stood in front of Declan and ran his hand over the length of the erection. “Missed you too.” At the look in Declan’s eyes, Bram pulled the smaller man out of his chair and captured his mouth. Oh hell, Declan tasted like home. Sweeping the interior of Declan’s mouth, Bram moaned. Breaking the kiss, he whispered against Declan’s mouth. “I’ve tried like hell to forget the taste of you.” Snaking his tongue out, Declan ran it around the rim of Bram’s lips. “No promises.” He pushed his tongue inside Bram’s mouth as he ran his fingers through Bram’s hair. Bram turned Declan and sat in his chair, pulling the smaller man down on his lap. “Never asked for any promises. I just need to feel you, to taste you. Even if it’s just for a little while, I need you to be mine.” Bram turned Declan so he was facing him. He

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placed the other man’s legs over the arms of the chair and attacked his mouth once more. Moaning, Declan began rubbing his cock against Bram’s stomach as his ass moved back and forth against Bram’s denim-encased erection. Grunting his approval, Bram ran his hands down Declan’s finely developed sixpack to the evidence of his desire. “Can I touch you?” “Please, yes.” As Bram went to work on Declan’s faded jeans, Declan pulled Bram’s shirt off over his head. Bram’s black hair fell in a waterfall of silk against his chest. Leaning down, Declan took one of Bram’s pebbled nipples into his mouth. Bram’s hands were shaking so badly it took him longer to get to Declan’s cock than he’d anticipated. Finally spreading Declan’s jeans apart, Bram pushed down Declan’s boxers and fished out his arousal. Long and thick. For a small man, Declan had a goodsized cock. Bram groaned and wrapped his fingers around it. “You feel good, like I knew you would.” “Mmm,” Declan moaned as he thrust into Bram’s hand. “Need you,” Declan said, attacking Bram’s other nipple as he continued to rub his ass against Bram’s cock. Thrusting his cock harder against Declan’s sweet ass, Bram nodded. “You have any lube in here?” Pulling off Bram’s nipple, Declan blushed. “Yeah.” He broke away from Bram and walked across the room, unlocking one of his file cabinets. Reaching all the way to the back, he picked up a bottle of lube and held it up. “Please don’t ask,” Declan said, relocking the cabinet as Bram dug in his wallet for a condom. Declan walked back over to the desk and set it down before taking his shoes, jeans and boxers off, while eyeing Bram openly. When Bram unzipped his jeans and started pushing them down, his dark bronzed cock sprang free of its confinement. “Fuck.” Declan’s eyes went big as he looked at the size of Bram’s cock. He coughed, and looked into Bram’s eyes. Seeing the worry in Declan’s eyes, Bram pulled him into his embrace. He ran his hands down Declan’s ass. “Relax. I won’t hurt you, I never would.” Although Bram 15

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wanted to touch all of Declan’s skin, he didn’t venture his hand upward. He remembered Declan’s scars, and knew the man was self-conscious about them. The first time they’d kissed in the barn, the night of the party, Declan had pulled away when Bram ran his hands over the damaged skin. Declan gave Bram a slight nod and kissed him. “Please, don’t hurt me.” Pulling away, Bram sat back in the chair and positioned Declan on his lap again. “Never.” Bram didn’t know whether to cry for the scarred and frightened man in his arms or get up and find the bastard who had hurt him. He pulled Declan to his chest and kissed the top of his head. “Please don’t be afraid of me. It just kills my protective side.” Declan’s answer was to reach behind him and lift the bottle of lube off the desk before handing it to Bram. “Get me ready?” Bram gave a sigh of relief and rolled the condom on. He took the bottle of oil and poured a generous amount into his hand. Reaching around Declan’s back, Bram tried not to get the oil on Declan’s shirt as he brought his fingers to Declan’s rosette. Bram kissed him. “Pull your shirt up so I don’t ruin it. I won’t touch your back unless you ask me to.” Biting his lip, Declan slowly raised his shirt. Bram leaned forward and took Declan’s mouth in another soul-searing kiss. When Declan melted against his chest, Bram rimmed his tight pucker with his oil-slicked fingers. He gently pushed one finger inside slowly. Damn, it had obviously been awhile for Declan. The man was as tight as a virgin. “Okay?” “Mmm-hmm.” Declan moved on Bram’s finger. “More,” Declan whispered as he nipped Bram’s neck. Adding another finger, Bram began slowly moving them in and out. “So tight.” Declan arched his back when Bram pegged his prostate gland. “Long time.” Declan began moving his body up and down on Bram’s fingers. “Another. Give me one more.”

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Bram reached for the bottle of oil with his free hand and dripped some down the crevice of Declan’s ass. Bram pulled out his fingers, and used the oil to lubricate Declan again before inserting the third finger. “Oh.” Declan’s back arched as he pushed into Bram’s hand. “Now.” Using his already lubed fingers, Bram ran them up and down the length of his cock a few times. He looked at Declan and wrapped his arms around his hips. “Rise up.” When Declan complied, Bram held on to the base of his cock and lined it up with Declan’s hole. “You’re in charge now, so go at your own pace.” Declan looked into his eyes for a few seconds and smiled. “Thank you.” He began to lower his body onto Bram’s throbbing shaft. Once the crown pushed passed the tight ring of muscles, Declan stopped for a few seconds before lowering himself inch by inch down the length of Bram’s cock. When Declan’s ass hit Bram’s lap, he looked up, surprised. “You’re in all the way?” Trying his damnedest to breathe, Bram nodded. “Yeah. I’m buried to the hilt.” Bram rubbed and squeezed the firm globes of Declan’s ass. He closed his eyes and willed himself not to move, when all he really wanted was to jackhammer his cock in and out of Declan’s sweet body. Declan kissed him. “I can see the strain I’m putting you through, and yet you haven’t moved a muscle. I think you were right, Mr. Blackstone. I believe I can trust you.” With those words, Declan began to move up and down on Bram’s shaft. As his passage stretched and relaxed to accept Bram more easily, Declan leaned forward and gave Bram a kiss. “You can move now. It doesn’t hurt anymore.” “Thank God.” Bram seemed to surprise Declan by picking him up and laying him down on the desk, still buried inside him. Bram brought Declan’s legs over his shoulders and began a fierce rhythm. He pushed himself inside as far as he could. “I can’t get close enough.” As Bram’s hips pistoned, he reached between them and fisted Declan’s cock. “Come for me. Come on my cock.”

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Throwing his head back and arching his body, Declan came with Bram’s name on his lips. It was erotic as hell to see Declan’s cum painted all over his chest. With Bram’s dark skin tone, the pearly white drops stood out in stark contrast. God, he had the desire to taste that thick essence. The thought had him on the edge of coming. Thrusting once more, Bram buried himself deep and came, shaking with the ferocity of his climax. Bram looked into Declan’s eyes and lowered himself against Declan’s body. In that instant, Bram knew he’d been right to fall in love with this man. Bram’s long black hair created a curtain around the two of them as they kissed and licked each other’s faces and necks. Declan chuckled against Bram’s neck. “I think my legs are waging a protest at our current position.” Bram snapped up so fast, Declan almost fell off the desk. “You should have told me I was hurting you.” Bram removed the condom and began massaging Declan’s finely muscled legs. “You didn’t hurt me.” Declan cupped Bram’s cheeks. “I think you just saved me,” Declan whispered. Bram sifted through what Declan had just declared. Pulling the smaller man up to sit on the desk, Bram held him close and kissed him. “I think I’m falling hard for you, Declan O’Malley. You’re a keeper.” Bram realized he had his hands on Declan’s back and started to move them. Declan shook his head. “Don’t. I’m not afraid you’ll be disgusted anymore. Your arms and hands on my skin feel too good to give up because of the past.” Bram hated to ask but he knew they needed to get past this part of their new relationship. “Can you tell me?” He ran his fingertips lightly over the scars. “It’s a long story.” Declan glanced at the clock. “I’m sorry but I don’t have time to tell you right now. My plane’s going to leave without me if I don’t get going. But I promise I’ll call you tonight on my cell phone before we head out to the river in the morning.” Taking some tissues out of the box on Declan’s desk, Bram began cleaning them up. “We should probably take a quick shower but I think I like the smell of your cum on 18

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me.” Declan moaned and Bram kissed him again. “Let me drive you to the airport. Give me a few more minutes with you.” Declan reached for his clothes and began putting them on. “You sure you’re up to that? You just came from the airport. You ready to go back?” Zipping his jeans, Bram took a couple steps and pulled Declan into his embrace. “I’d be even happier if you’d make a place for me on this raft trip.” Declan ran his fingers through Bram’s hair and sighed. “I wish you could come but it’s in Arizona, Bram. I know how you feel about that state. Call Mac and tell him you need more time off. You can spend the week getting to know Kelly while I’m gone. Then I can have you all to myself when I get home.” Releasing Declan, Bram nodded. “Okay, but I don’t need to call Mac. I just have to call my assistant back in New York. I’m taking you to the airport, though. I plan on getting a few more kisses before I put you aboard that plane.”

***** Thirty minutes later, they were on their way to the airport in Bram’s rental. Declan sat next to him on the bench seat as the miles quickly flew by. Bram was torn between slowing down to make the trip last and keeping his promise that he’d get Declan to the airport on time. Declan nuzzled Bram’s neck. “Why don’t you stay at my place while I’m gone? There’s no sense in it sitting empty while I’m gone. When I get home, we’ll figure out our next step. Besides, I’d like the thought of you sleeping in my bed.” Squeezing Declan even tighter against him, Bram agreed. “I’d love to. I wasn’t exactly sure about staying in the house with Gabe, Rex and Boone anyway. I kinda walked in on Boone sucking Rex off earlier. They didn’t seem to mind too much but I know my libido would be in overdrive with the smell of cum filtering through that house.” Declan latched on to Bram’s bronzed neck and sucked, hard. He released his hold and looked at the nice bruise. “I’ve marked you, Bram Blackstone. You’re mine now.”

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Slowing the truck enough to maintain control, Bram leaned over and took a quick kiss. “I was yours before you ever marked me, Declan O’Malley.” Declan snuggled up against his shoulder once again as they rode in silence. “Declan? Do we have enough time to talk about what happened to you now?” Bram rubbed Declan’s side with the arm he had wrapped around him. “Some, maybe. It’s not a very pretty story. Are you sure you’re ready to hear it?” No. “I need to hear it. I need to understand why you pushed me away a month and a half ago.” Bram sighed. “And I need to understand so I don’t do something in the future that might upset you.” Bram kissed the top of Declan’s down-turned head. “You already know that my longtime partner, Scott, died from brain cancer, but it goes beyond that.” Declan’s tone was calm, almost detached, like he’d recited the story many times. “I was put into the foster care system when I was twelve. My mom was an alcoholic and the system took me away from her. When I was around sixteen, the family I was staying with took in another foster kid, Scott. He was only fifteen and had just lost his parents in a car accident. We quickly became friends, and then a few years later, lovers. I was accepted to college on a full-ride scholarship but Scott had neither the desire nor the grades, so he opted to work construction. He made enough money to get us a little studio apartment close to campus and the first couple years I was in college were heaven. One day I noticed Scott started acting funny. His moods began to change in the blink of an eye. I knew it wasn’t anything external because we were both so happy in our relationship it was sickening. I begged him to go see a doctor and after a lot of testing they found a small spot of cancer on his brain.” Declan stopped talking for a minute. Bram could tell he was reliving past events. Bram wanted to say something to Declan about the cold impersonal way he recited his history but he figured it was the only way Declan could get through it. He seemed to need that bit of detachment. “He went through the normal routine of radiation and chemotherapy, even though they told us the radiation might cause dementia. Scott had two rounds of radiation

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before they determined they were doing more harm than good. The cancer began to spread to other parts of his body. Scott’s mind began to falter along with his control. He beat me up several times. The police suggested I move out but Scott was the only family I had. I couldn’t leave him. No matter what he did to me, I couldn’t leave him.” Declan leaned forward and dug an old-fashioned dark blue bandana out of his back pocket. He wiped his eyes and blew his nose. Bram knew the tears in his eyes were visible to Declan, but for the life of him, he couldn’t turn them off. He was just about to tell Declan he didn’t need to hear any more when his man started talking again. “In my fifth year of college, I got a job working for one of my professors. One night when I came home, Scott met me at the front door of our studio. I could tell he was pissed about something, but I didn’t know what I had done. He pulled me into the apartment and started hitting me. He accused me of sleeping with my boss.” Declan began shaking his head. “I don’t know where he even got that idea but in his disturbed brain I’d committed the ultimate act of betrayal. He knocked me out, and when I came to, I was tied spread-eagle to our bed on my stomach. He tortured me. He raped me with different things around the house. When that wasn’t enough, he went into the kitchen and came back with a can opener of all things.” Bram couldn’t listen and still drive, so he pulled the truck to the side of the highway. Reaching out, he pulled Declan into his arms. Declan never missed a beat with his story. “You know the kind that you open a beer bottle with on one side and the other pointy side you use to open juice? Anyway, he came back into the room and held it up so I could see it. I remember thinking ‘What’s he gonna do with that?’. It wasn’t long enough to rape me with, so I just looked at him. Scott climbed on the bed and started carving into my back with the pointed end. I’d already screamed myself hoarse and no one had come to help me. Thankfully I passed out after about the third cut. The next thing I remembered was waking in the hospital. Evidently, after coming to his senses at

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some point during the attack, Scott realized what he’d done and threw himself out our fifth-floor window and broke his neck. When the police were called, they checked out the apartment and found me. I woke in the hospital to the news that I was permanently disfigured and the man I loved was dead.” Bram looked at Declan as he wound down his lengthy speech. And that’s exactly what it was, a speech. One he must have given over and over to the authorities. Bram wondered just how detached a person became after such a horrific ordeal. No. Scratch that. Unfortunately, Bram knew exactly how detached someone could become after an attack by a loved one. He was living proof. Bram looked back to Declan and waited for him to finish. “I’ve never trusted anyone since.” Declan looked up at Bram’s tearstained face. “Until today.” Bram pulled Declan into his lap and kissed him. “I’m so sorry.” Tears ran down Bram’s face for the first time since he’d heard about Thor’s paralysis. Now that the tears had started, Bram couldn’t seem to turn them off. He held Declan as tightly as he dared until he could get his emotions under control. Declan wiped Bram’s face and wiped his nose. “Thank you, Declan.” Declan kissed him deep and hard, pushing his tongue into Bram’s mouth until their teeth collided. “I should be the one thanking you. I’ve been so lonely these last six years. I’ve been afraid to open myself up, to trust again. I’m sorry if I hurt you back in June when you were here. I really wanted to be ready. It wasn’t until you touched my back that I chickened out. Why would a man that looks like you want someone with a body like mine?” Pulling back enough to lift Declan’s face to his, Bram shook his head. “The first time I saw you on Gabe’s patio, I wanted you. Believe me, babe, there’s a hell of a lot more to your body than just your back. And you know what else?” “What?”

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“I love you. Scarred back and all. I don’t want you to ever feel ashamed of your body again. Not with me. Ever.” Bram leaned in and offered a loving kiss. “I love you too,” Declan whispered against his lips.

***** They were on the road again a few minutes later. Both men were feeling good, Declan’s arms wrapped around Bram’s waist. They pulled into the airport and Declan stopped Bram before he could pull into the parking lot. “There’s no need. My plane leaves in a little less than half an hour. I’ll have to run just to get through security and catch it. Just give me a kiss and tell me goodbye.” Bram pulled up in front of the terminal. “You never told me where you’re staying?” “The Prickly Pear Lodge. We’ll be on the river during the day but I should have no problem calling every night. I’ll call tonight for sure.” Declan leaned in to get a goodbye kiss. “I wish I could stay but I’ve already promised.” “I’ll be here when you get back.” Bram gave him one more quick kiss before Declan was running toward the entrance with his big backpack and a duffel bag. Bram watched until he could no longer see him through the glass. He pulled away from the curb and headed back to the ranch. Suddenly he was glad he had a week to himself. Bram knew it would take at least that long to get over his anger at a dead man.

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Chapter Three Bram pulled back into the ranch yard and was immediately waved down by Thor. Turning off the engine, Bram climbed out of the truck with a smile on his face. “Hey, little brother.” “Where the hell did you disappear to?” Thor came wheeling up as fast as he could, a dark scowl on his bronzed angular face. Bram blushed, realizing he’d forgotten to tell Thor he was leaving. “I’m sorry. I took Declan to the airport.” Thor opened his mouth to yell at Bram but it turned into a smile instead. “Good for you. Things are going to work out after all.” Thor wheeled beside Bram as they made their way to the facility. “Better than okay. I’m in love for the first time in my life.” Bram grinned at his brother. Thor stopped and turned toward Bram. “That’s fantastic. You deserve some happiness for a change. Now come and meet my Kelly.” Thor wheeled into the facility and pointed toward a petite short-haired blonde at the reception desk. “That’s my girl.” Bram followed Thor to the desk. The woman looked up and smiled at Thor. Bram smiled to himself. She hadn’t even looked Bram’s way. She only had eyes for his brother. Bram noticed her dimples and shining blue eyes. She was a pretty little thing. Bram looked down at his brother as he wheeled closer to Kelly. Stifling a chuckle, Bram noticed the tent present in the front of Thor’s sweats. He leaned down to whisper in Thor’s ear. “Sorry I ever questioned your abilities to perform.” He looked again at Thor’s cock. Thor turned red and punched him in the arm. “Gross. Stop lookin’, you perv. I can’t help it if Kelly gets me all hot and bothered just from that gorgeous smile of hers.” 24

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Thor wheeled around behind the reception counter and leaned in for a kiss. When the little kiss became a much-bigger one, Bram cleared his throat. Thor broke away and winked at Kelly. “Darlin’, I’d like you to meet Bram. Bram, this is my girl, Kelly.” Bram shook her hand. “I’m very happy to finally meet you, Kelly. From what my brother tells me, he’s been looking for you a long time.” Bram chuckled as Thor punched him in the arm again. “Okay. Okay. Let’s not beat on the senior citizen.” Kelly giggled and flashed that dimpled smile again. “I’m happy to meet you. Thor talks about you all the time.” Glancing at his brother, Bram couldn’t help but see the love in Thor’s eyes. “Would you care to stay and have dinner with us up at the main house? I think Rex is grilling again.” Kelly blushed, and Thor took her hand. “I’d love to if it’s okay with Rex, Boone and Gabe.” “I promise you it’s okay. I’ll let you two get back to work.” Bram looked at Thor, seeing him as a man for probably the first time. “I’ll be moving my stuff into Declan’s house while he’s gone, so that’s where I’ll be if you need me.” Chuckling at the bewildered expression on Thor’s face, Bram left and headed to the main house. He felt so good inside it was a wonder he wasn’t skipping like a six-year-old girl. This time when he reached the main house, he knocked. When he didn’t get an answer, he figured the men were out doing chores. Opening the door, he stuck his head in. “Is anyone home? It’s Bram and I don’t feel like another show today, so if you’re in here, holler.” When no one yelled back, he went in and climbed the steps. Retrieving his bag off the bed, Bram walked down the stairs and out of the house. Crossing the ranch yard, he spotted Boone next to the barn playing catch with Billy. Bram walked over to greet his friend and Boone’s soon-to-be-adopted son. Bram noticed Billy caught the ball despite his young age and the fact he was in a wheelchair, having been paralyzed in the car accident that killed his parents. “Hey, guys. Looking good, Billy.” 25

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“Hi, Bram.” Billy threw the ball to Boone and wheeled over to Bram. “Thor told me you were coming for a visit. Are you going to have dinner with us tonight? Grandma Maggie and I are making homemade potato salad.” Bram knelt down to talk to Billy at eye level. “Sure am, kiddo.” He looked at Boone. “I hope you don’t mind but I invited Thor and Kelly to have dinner with us.” Boone was quick to brush away Bram’s concern. “Think nothing of it. Mom and Rex always make enough to feed an army.” Looking at Billy, Bram smiled. “Why don’t you go find Maggie for me and tell her there will be two more for dinner? Would you do that?” “Sure.” Boone handed Billy his ball and glove. “Put those away for me too, please.” When Billy smiled and wheeled off, Bram looked at Boone and lifted his bag. “Um. Thanks for the invitation to stay with you guys in the main house but Declan said I could stay at his place while I’m here.” With eyebrows raised, Boone looked at Bram. “So I take it you two have patched things up?” “You take it right. I just finished dropping him at the airport. I’m planning to stay at least a week when he gets back. See how things go before I make any location changes.” Bram couldn’t help smiling. He felt so incredibly happy he wanted to shout his feelings to the world. He just hoped like hell his brain wasn’t working faster than Declan’s. Clapping Bram on the back, Boone nodded. “Good for you. Declan’s not been the same since you left. We all hoped it was only a matter of time before you guys worked things out.” “I wanted to ask if you knew how whoever hired him to do this raft ride got his name? Are they an ex-guest of the center or just someone who’d heard about Declan’s skills?” Bram scratched his jaw as he waited for Boone’s answer.

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“Don’t know the guy. Doc just said he received an email asking him to help with the trip. Doc was feeling pretty low to the ground at the time and decided a few days on the river would be good for him. I don’t think he ever even told me the guy’s name.” Boone walked with Bram toward the four-room cabin Declan had purchased from Mac. When they got to the porch steps, Boone clapped him on the shoulder again and tipped his ever-present baseball hat. “I’ll see you at dinner.” Walking into Declan’s house felt, to Bram, like an invasion of privacy. There were pieces of Declan’s life on every surface. Bram sat on the light brown suede sofa. He rubbed his hand over the soft material. “No way someone could fuck on this couch.” Just thinking of the stains it would leave behind was enough to make Bram shiver. He guessed Declan didn’t have fucking in mind when he bought his furniture. Good. Yawning, Bram stretched and toed off his shoes. He swung his legs up and was gratefully surprised when his long six-foot-three frame fit nicely on the couch. Bram shut his eyes, deciding to take a little nap before dinner. A fly buzzing his face woke him. He glanced at the clock and was surprised to see he’d been asleep for nearly two hours. Jumping up, Bram ran a quick brush through his hair and braided it down the center of his back, the tail resting against his ass. Eating outside in the west Oklahoma wind was not fun with long hair flying in your face. Thankfully, he arrived only ten minutes late. Bram headed straight to the patio instead of going through the house. Everyone was already present and having before dinner drinks. “Hey, guys, sorry I’m late. I fell asleep on the couch.” Bram stopped to give Rex’s mom, Maggie, a quick hug before heading over to shake hands with Gabe and Rex. Gabe shook his hand, smiling. “Heard a rumor that you’ve moved into Doc’s house.” Rex handed Bram a beer. “You heard right. Declan told me to make myself at home.” Bram winked and nudged Rex’s arm. “I think he wanted me away from you three.” 27

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“You saying Doc doesn’t trust us with his man? Why, I’m shocked to the core.” Gabe batted his lashes at Bram. “More than likely he just wanted to picture you sleeping in his bed while he was away.” Bram almost spat out his beer as he started laughing. “Actually, I think those were almost his exact words. Do you have spies around or something?” Bram chanced it and took another drink of beer. “Don’t need spies, we’ve got eyes. You’re hotter than a quarter lying on a sidewalk in August.” Bram and Rex both looked at Gabe like he was crazy. Gabe chuckled and shrugged. “It’s something I heard one of my foster parents say growing up. I’ve always thought that saying was a hoot.” Rex wrapped his arm around Gabe. “Forgive him, Bram. He knows not what he says.” Bram left Rex and Gabe teasing each other about stupid sayings and went over and sat beside Thor and Kelly. “Hey. Thought you might’ve changed your mind about meeting us for dinner.” Thor took a drink of his beer. Watching his brother hold hands with a woman was a new experience for Bram. He still felt ashamed that he’d never considered Thor to be sexually active. “Yeah, it’s been awhile since I’ve slept that good.” Bram looked at Kelly. “So tell me something about yourself, Kelly. Are you from around here?” Kelly smiled, flashing her dimples. “Yes and no. I grew up in California, but my grandma lives here in town. I read about this facility in the newspaper back home in San Diego. I couldn’t believe the little town I’d been coming to every summer would be mentioned in the San Diego paper but it was.” She waved her hands in the air. “Anyway, I read about the facility and called Mr. Fowler to inquire about a job for the summer. I’m a schoolteacher like Thor, so I’m off for the summer. I decided I’d spend the summer with Grandma and volunteer at the center. Little did I know I’d meet someone as special as your brother.” 28

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Thor leaned over and kissed her. “Isn’t she great?” “Yeah, and you were right. You’re perfect for each other.” He looked at Kelly. “I don’t suppose you’ve applied to the school in Styler, have you?” Kelly blushed and put her head down slightly. “Actually, I have. I’ve got an interview next week.” She looked at Thor. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you but I wanted it to be a surprise.” Thor grinned at Kelly and kissed her again. He turned back to Bram and punched him in the arm. “You ruined my surprise.” Chuckling, Bram stood and looked around. “I’m gonna go visit Maggie and Billy. I bet neither of them will abuse me.”

***** Later that night, Bram flipped through a magazine as he waited for Declan’s call. He was naked as instructed and still waiting. He glanced at the clock for the fifth time in fifteen minutes. Declan should have called by now. Bram scooted down farther in the bed and closed his eyes. Maybe if I take a little snooze the time will go by faster. The next thing he knew, light was shining in through the open curtains right into his eyes. He started to roll over and go back to sleep but suddenly remembered what he’d been waiting on the previous night. It wasn’t like Declan to not keep his word. Bram reached for his cell phone and called Declan’s number. When he got a message saying to leave a number at the tone, he shook his head. “Hey, it’s Bram. I waited for your call last night. I’m still waiting, as a matter of fact. Call me as soon as you get this message. I’m starting to worry. I miss you.” Bram disconnected and held the phone to his forehead. Something just didn’t feel right. Opening the phone again, he called Arizona information. “Yes, I need the number for the Prickly Pear Lodge just outside Flagstaff.” Bram waited and chose to spend the extra money just to have the operator dial it for him.

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“Hi I’m trying to get in touch with Dr. Declan O’Malley. He’s with the wheelchairbound rafting trip.” Bram heard the front desk clerk typing into his computer. “I’m sorry, sir, but Dr. O’Malley never checked in last night, and I have no reservations for a group fitting that description.” “Can I leave a message with you in case he checks in today? Please have him call Bram Blackstone as soon as possible.” The clerk agreed, and after giving his number, Bram hung up. The hair on the back of his neck was standing on end. Something’s definitely wrong here. He dressed and walked out of the cabin. Bram strode toward the facility, and found Thor already hard at work. They only had one or two guests just then because of Declan’s vacation but Thor was working with Billy. Bram needed to talk to Thor too much to be subtle. “Hey, Thor, I need to speak with you.” Bram looked at the perspiring Billy. “Sorry, Billy, but it’s important.” Thor said something to Billy and wheeled over to Bram. “What’s got you so fired up this morning?” “Declan was supposed to call me last night and didn’t. I called the lodge this morning, and not only did Declan not check in last night but they have no record of his rafting trip. Something’s definitely wrong and I need your superior computer skills to help me find out what it is.” Bram turned and headed toward Declan’s office. Sitting in front of Declan’s computer, Bram was sorry to see the computer itself was password-protected. “Boone told me Declan received the invitation via email, so I need to find that email.” Bram stood and backed away from the computer, giving Thor room. He was damn lucky his brother was not only a computer teacher but a damn good hacker. Bram sat on the edge of the desk as Thor’s fingers flew over the keyboard. Thor shook his head and grunted as he kept trying to get into Declan’s computer. He finally looked over at Bram. “It would be a hell of a lot easier if you knew his password.”

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“Tell me something I don’t already know. I’ve no idea what his password is.” Bram rubbed his chin as he thought. “Try Scott.” Thor keyed in Scott’s name. “Nope.” “What was Scott’s last name?” Bram felt his jaw tighten at the thought of Scott, and what he’d done to Declan. Thor shook his head. “It was something like Harm, Harder.” Thor snapped his fingers. “Harmon.” He keyed in Harmon. Nothing. Thor sat back in the chair and closed his eyes. After a few minutes, he sprang forward and keyed in H A R M O N Y. The computer came to life and a list of emails appeared. Bram looked at his brother and shook his head. “How did you do that?” Thor’s eyes never left the screen as he shrugged. “I remembered Doc talking about Scott one day. Only he didn’t call him Scott. He called him Harmony. I guess it must have been a nickname or something.” Bram felt like he’d been punched in the gut. Not only did Declan have Scott’s name as his password but he’d been talking about him too. Bram rubbed the moisture from his eyes. He would not cry in front of his brother. “Got it.” Thor moved away from the computer to let Bram in. Bram pulled up the office chair and read the email. At least he knew Declan wasn’t the one lying. The email outlined the entire trip along with the accommodations. Strangely enough, it listed a room already reserved for Declan. Bram wondered how the guy knew Declan would say yes. Bram looked back even further in the archives, hoping to find something else. He finally spotted an email from the same guy one month prior. He swallowed the bile rising in his throat as he read it. “Thor, I think you need to take a look at this.” Bram moved back slightly so Thor could read the computer screen. Reading the email over again as Thor read it, Bram couldn’t figure out how Declan could fall for such a scam. It said the guy was a relative of Thor and Bram’s and wanted desperately to bridge the gap between the estranged families. It went on to say that “Lon”, as the guy called himself, was organizing a rafting trip for wheelchair-bound 31

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adults from the surrounding area. Lon said he’d be eternally grateful if Declan would come to Arizona and help him with the trip, as well as talk about the Blackstone brothers. Thor’s back stiffened visibly as he finished the email. “What the hell is going on? Who’s this Lon? We don’t have a relative by that name.” “I think the bigger question is how did he get Declan’s name and what’s he doing to him right now?” Bram unbraided his hair and began to run his fingers through it. It was a ritual with him whenever he needed to think. He stood and turned to Thor. “I’m going to Arizona.” “What? I don’t know what’s going on either but you told me you’d never step foot in that state again.” Thor followed Bram out of the office. Bram stopped and turned toward his brother. “That was before the man I love was tricked into going there. He’s not checked in at the lodge and he’s not answering his phone. Declan’s in some sort of trouble and it’s because of me. I’m going, Thor.” Bram walked out of the facility before Thor could stop him. Packing his duffel, Bram tried to think of someone in his estranged family who would want to hurt him by kidnapping Declan. It just didn’t make sense. How could someone find out about Declan when they’d really only just gotten together? Shaking his head, Bram loaded the duffel in the back of the pickup. He saw Thor coming toward him as he climbed into the driver’s seat and rolled down the window. “I’ll call as soon as I find something out.” Thor reached up and put his hand on Bram’s arm. “I’m still not sure what took place when you took me away from Arizona but it was enough to keep you away for all these years. Are you sure you want to do this alone? Because I could come with you.” Bram covered his baby brother’s hand with his own. “I love you but I can’t let you go back there. Promise me you won’t follow me.”

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Thor gave Bram’s arm a slight squeeze as he studied him. “As long as I hear from you every day, I won’t come after you. That’s all I’m gonna promise.” Bram put the truck into gear and waited for Thor to get out of the way. “I’ll call you tonight.” At Thor’s nod, Bram pulled out of the parking lot.

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Chapter Four Driving to the airport, Bram couldn’t help but worry about Declan. The few relatives Bram had left in the area hated him and his brother. They blamed Bram for Lucky Blackstone’s death. But then the Blackstone family had always believed what they wanted to, and in their eyes, Lucky could do no wrong. Bram had been thrown out of the house and told to never come back after reporting his father to the police for child abuse. Bram had been barely sixteen when his father kicked him out onto the streets. Bram should’ve known his father’s family would never help him out. The first time Bram had reported his own parents, he’d made the mistake of going to the local police. The Blackstone family was wealthy and very influential around the area. Needless to say, nothing came of Bram’s complaint save a few more bruises handed out by his parents. When he’d finally gathered the guts to go to the state police, they’d sent him home and called his father. Just like that, his father had kicked his eldest son out of the house. It seemed the police officer who took his statement owed the Blackstone family a favor. Lucky Blackstone had fooled them all for years. He’d ordered Bram out of town and at the time he had the power to do it. Bram vowed to never return and he hadn’t until the day he got the call his baby brother was in the hospital. Thor had been hit on the back with a steel pipe at the hands of his father as his mother watched. Doreen Blackstone often laughed while Lucky beat Bram. Bram, who was only eighteen, left New York for Arizona as soon as he received the call from the state police. He flew to Flagstaff and his entire life changed. Thor was still too sedated to talk much but had named his father as his attacker. The police finally stepped in and arrested Lucky Blackstone.

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Bram was the star witness for the prosecution. He relived his life of physical and mental abuse at the hands of not only his father but his mother as well, while under oath. Because there was no proof his mother had anything to do with Thor’s injuries, she got off with a warning while his father was sentenced to seven years in prison. The people in power on the reservation still believed in Lucky’s innocence and had told Bram he was no longer considered one of them. They ordered him off the reservation and told him to never return. Clear up to his death, his father’s cronies believed in his innocence. Stabbed to death by a fellow inmate, Lucky Blackstone only served two years in prison. As far as Bram knew, his mother was still alive and living in the family home.

***** As Bram landed in Arizona, his skin began to crawl. He’d decided to check with the lodge first and go from there. Pulling out the map and directions the rental agency had given him, Bram wound his way down country roads until he reached the Prickly Pear Lodge. He pulled his SUV out front and went in to talk to the desk clerk. He left ten minutes later with no clue as to where to look next. Bram didn’t like what he was thinking. If this whole thing had to do with him and his brother, the only place to really look was in the small town where they’d grown up. Evidently, whoever Lon was, he was trying to lure Bram back there. When he was on the road headed for his parents’ home, he called Thor. “Bram?” “Hey. No luck at the lodge, so I’m heading to Lucky and Doreen’s.” Bram kept one eye on the road and one eye in the rearview mirror. “Bram, just stay put and let me come out there.” “No, little brother. You stay right where you are. Evidently, someone’s playing games with the people I love and I won’t let them get away with it. I’ll call you

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sometime this evening.” Bram disconnected the call. He pushed a little harder on the gas and tried to come up with a plan. His anxiety increased the closer he got to the reservation. Pulling into the little town he’d grown up in, Bram’s skin broke out in goose bumps. Declan was here. He couldn’t explain it but he knew the man he loved was here. Bram stopped and parked his SUV in front of the grocery store. He decided it would be better to walk the two blocks to his parents’ home. He crept across the neighbors’ yards. Knowing that if someone expected him, they’d be looking out the back or front, Bram came at the house from the side. He looked at the large house he’d grown up in. There wasn’t one pleasant memory associated with the five-bedroom house. Bram didn’t even know if his mother was still alive or if she even lived there, but something was telling him Declan was close. He waited behind the neighbor’s car until he determined no one was looking out the window. Stepping lightly, he crept to the side of the house and passed the oldfashioned cellar doors. God, he remembered being locked in that small dank cellar for days at a time without food or water. Folks in town considered having a wine cellar to be a big deal but Bram always felt his father built it just as a punishment chamber for his children. He looked in the dining room window. Seeing nothing, he moved to the living room window. Still nothing. Taking a chance, he moved to the back of the house. Through the kitchen window at the back of the house, he spotted a bound and gagged Declan. Bram’s breathing picked up and his hands fisted at his side. He could tell Declan was either unconscious or asleep by the way his head hung down. Bram refused to even consider anything besides those two options. Feeling like his heart was going to beat out of his chest, he looked around for some form of weapon, finally picking up an old brick from the edge of the patio. Holding it in his hand, he made his way to the back door. Looking through the glass, he tried the knob. Damn, it was locked. Seeing no other choice, he used the brick to break a corner of the glass. He reached his hand in to

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unlock the door. Opening the door, he knew he needed to move fast. He didn’t know who or how many people were in the house but he was unarmed and Declan was hurt. As he quickly made his way across the kitchen to his lover, Declan’s head came up slightly. His eyes were open but just barely. Someone had beaten him badly. Bram slipped into rescue mode, found a kitchen knife and quickly cut Declan free. Hoisting his lover into his arms, Bram made his way out of the house. He didn’t know where he found the strength but Bram ran with Declan cradled in his arms the entire way back to his SUV. He opened the door and laid Declan in the back seat. “Hold on. I’ll get you to a hospital.” Bram jumped in the front seat and opened his phone. After calling 9-1-1, Bram drove Declan to the nearest hospital. Pulling up to the emergency room door, he scooped Declan into his arms and ran inside.

***** Two hours later, Bram sat next to a sleeping Declan. The doctor told him Declan had only superficial injuries with the exception of a mild concussion. Whoever had kidnapped him hadn’t been too hard on him at least. The more Bram thought about it, the more he decided he couldn’t take Declan back to the facility. He didn’t know who this sick fuck was but they didn’t need to lead him back to a place full of kids. Making up his mind, he gave Declan a kiss on the forehead and left the room. Walking outside the small hospital, Bram opened his phone and called Mac. “Hello.” “Hey, Mac. I need a favor.” “It’s about time you called. Thor called us over an hour ago telling us what happened. We didn’t know whether to jump on a plane or what.” “Well, I’ve been sticking close to Declan. Can you blame me?” Bram eyed the parking lot as he spoke. 37

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“Not at all, buddy. What can we do to help?” “Well, I need somewhere to take Declan until this guy is caught. I can’t take him back to the facility for obvious reasons.” “Bring him here. Nicco’s mom has a nice guest apartment above the garage. And the three of us will be close enough if you need backup.” “They’ll release him in the morning but we have to go by the police station before we can leave the state. We should be in Albuquerque by sometime tomorrow afternoon. And, Mac?” “Yeah, buddy?” “Thanks.” Bram disconnected and called Thor to let him know of his plans. When he finished the call, he noticed he had several messages from the detective he’d talked to earlier. He punched in the number Detective Smally had given him. “Smally,” the detective answered in a gruff voice. “This is Bram Blackstone. You needed to speak with me?” Bram paced the sidewalk, wanting to get back inside. “Mr. Blackstone. I’m glad you called. We’ve got a bit of a…uh…situation. I don’t know how to tell you this, Mr. Blackstone, but we found your mother’s remains in the basement of her house. She’d been covered with a good amount of lye but it looks like she’s been dead at least two months, maybe more.” Rubbing his hands over his eyes, Bram pinched the bridge of his nose. “What about whoever did this to Declan?” “We haven’t been able to lift any clear prints yet from the house, and until Mr. O’Malley is coherent enough to give us some information, I’m afraid our hands are tied. I just figured you’d want to know about your mother.” Bram could hear the disgust in the detective’s voice. He must’ve thought Bram was one uncaring SOB. Bram didn’t give a shit. “I’m glad you told me about Doreen. Do me a favor and look up my family’s history on that fancy computer of yours, and you’ll

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figure out why I don’t give a shit that she’s dead. I’m bringing Declan by the station in the morning after he’s released. You can talk to him then, but after that, we’re flying to Albuquerque.” Bram didn’t give the detective time to argue. “We’ll see you in the morning, Detective.” He disconnected the call and turned off his phone. Heading back into the hospital, Bram stopped off at the gift shop and bought a single red rose. Bram knew it would never be enough. Hell, he could fill Declan’s room with roses and it wouldn’t be enough to take away his guilt. It was because of him that Declan was kidnapped, beaten and who knew what else. All because some wacko asshole had it out for Bram, and probably Thor. After taking Declan to the emergency room, Bram had gone straight to the little chapel in the hospital. It had been a long time since he’d prayed. Bram remembered praying every night as a kid for someone to take him away, but after a while, he figured God must be busy with the good kids. Bram had given up on God and it felt like God had given up on him, but in the chapel, he tried his best to make peace with the man upstairs. He’d promised a whole host of things if Declan could just be spared. Now, as he smelled the rose in his hand, Bram felt an unseen hand on his shoulder, giving him strength. Walking into the room, he was surprised to see Declan awake. “Damn. I’m sorry I wasn’t here when you woke up. I had to make a couple of phone calls.” He walked over to the bed and gave Declan’s mouth a light kiss, not wanting to hurt him. He held out the rose. “I brought you this.” Declan tried to smile and winced. “Find a glass and put it in some water for me, would you?” Bram went to the sink and found a paper cup. “I’ll do anything you ask.” Please, God, just don’t let him hate me, Bram silently prayed. He put the rose in the cup after breaking off most of the stem. He placed the makeshift vase on Declan’s tray table and sat down on the edge of the bed. “First things first.” He leaned over and kissed Declan

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again. “I love you. When I saw you through that window, I didn’t know whether I’d ever be able to tell you those words again.” Wiping the moisture from his eyes, Bram laid his head on Declan’s chest. “I love you so much. I’m sorry. I’ll never forgive myself for what you’ve been through because of me.” Bram felt Declan’s hand in his hair. Looking up at him, Bram could easily see the same love shining in Declan’s eyes. His heart felt a little lighter knowing Declan could still look at him with love in his eyes. “I love you, Bram. You’re my knight in shining armor. The way you charged into that house, not knowing who else was inside. It was fucking awesome.” Bram chuckled at the phrase. It sounded so much like something Thor would say. “I can’t wait to get you out of here so I can make love to you.” He stroked Declan’s arm. “I called Mac and he invited us to stay in the apartment over Lilly’s garage. I don’t think we should go back to the center right now. Not until they catch whoever did this.” Bram knew he should probably tell Declan about Doreen but he thought it could wait. Running his hand through Bram’s hair, Declan sighed. Bram looked back up at him. “What’s wrong?” “The guy who did this,” Declan motioned to his face, “he looked just like you.” Bram lifted off Declan’s chest. He shook his head and looked at Declan again. “You mean because of my heritage?” Closing his eyes, Declan turned his head to the side. “Not just that.” Declan opened his eyes and looked at Bram. “He could have been your twin, Bram. He was definitely related to you and Thor. He met me at the airport. I remember pulling off the main road but then nothing. I don’t know what he hit me with but when I came to I was tied up and gagged. We must’ve driven about another thirty minutes before pulling up behind that house where you found me.” Bram ran his fingers over the end of his braid. “That was the house where I grew up. Did he tell you why he took you there?”

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“He never would tell me anything. He just walked around the kitchen mumbling to himself. He’d take a break from that occasionally to come over and hit me again but then he’d go right back to pacing. The funny thing was, every time he hit me, it would make him cry, but it was like he was so confused he couldn’t help himself. I’m sorry, Bram, but I don’t think he was right in the head. I don’t mean just kidnapper-type crazy, I mean certifiably crazy. It was honestly like there were two people. One side of him seemed almost calculating, while the other side acted like a confused, scared boy.” “Do you know where he went? He wasn’t in the house when I got there. Did you hear him mumble anything about going out?” Bram took Declan’s hand and squeezed reassuringly. Bram wondered what was going through Declan’s mind as a man who looked just like Bram beat him. Would he see his kidnapper’s face every time he looked at Bram? “He kept talking about you and something about the airport. I don’t know. A lot of what he said didn’t make sense. But I picked up on your name and the airport.” Declan yawned and Bram leaned in again. “I’ll find him. One way or the other. I’ll find him.” Declan drifted off to sleep again and Bram went to talk to his nurses. He asked them if it was okay for Declan to sleep so much. They told him his concussion was very minor and as long as he woke every couple hours and was coherent, his body needed the rest. Bram went to the cafeteria and bought a sandwich and a cup of coffee. He took them back to Declan’s room and sat beside his bed as he ate. He kept looking at Declan to make sure he was safe, trying to work out in his head who could have done this. He had two male cousins that he was aware of but neither looked enough like him to be his twin. He knew he didn’t have an actual twin, so it had to be someone related to him that he didn’t know about. The more he thought about it, the more suspicions crept into his mind. He stood and went to the nurses’ station. He told the nurses he’d be outside using the phone if Declan woke and needed him. Walking out into the evening air, Bram called Thor again.

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“Bram?” “It’s me. Listen, I need to ask you some questions. First though, I need to tell you that Doreen was found dead in the basement of the house. Evidently whoever did this to Declan killed her at least two months ago.” Bram waited for a reply from Thor. When there was none, Bram figured Thor felt the same way about their mother as he did. “I need to ask if you ever remember hearing anything about Lucky having a mistress.” “What? What’s this about, Bram? Of course Lucky had girlfriends. Hell, everyone knew that. I think Doreen tried to pretend they didn’t exist but she definitely knew about them. Lucky wasn’t one to be subtle, you know. Why are you asking?” Bram’s jaws tightened. He didn’t like where his mind was taking him. “Because Declan said the man who kidnapped him could be my twin. I know how often people tell me the two of us look like each other, so when Declan told me this guy could be my twin, my mind started working. Did you ever hear about Lucky having children with any of these girlfriends?” After a few seconds, Thor finally answered. “No. Do you really think this guy could be our half-brother?” “Fuck no. This sick fuck’s not my half-brother. He may be Lucky’s offspring but he’s no brother of mine.” Bram needed to get off the phone. “Look, I need to go back up and sit with Declan. I’ll call you later.” “Bram? It’s not your fault. Even if this guy is Lucky’s son. None of this is your fault.” Thor hung up. Taking a deep breath, Bram turned off his phone and stuck it back in his pocket. How could it not be his fault? He was the only tie between Declan and this Lon guy. Shit, if it weren’t for him, Declan would be safe in his little log house. Instead he was upstairs with a face covered in bruises. Bram shook his head and went back up to sit with his love.

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Chapter Five Declan was quiet on the ride from the airport to Lilly’s ranch. He’d said little since leaving the police station where they’d answered a battery of questions and retrieved Declan’s bag. Bram tried not to read too much into it but he just couldn’t help himself. He finally couldn’t take any more silence. “Do you hate me for getting you involved in this mess?” Swiveling his head away from the passenger window to look at Bram, Declan’s mouth dropped. “Hate you? Why would I hate you?” “Because I got you into this. I wouldn’t hold it against you, ya know. Hell, if anyone’s to blame, it’s me. I don’t know who this guy is but I have a sneaking suspicion he’s my father’s illegitimate son.” Bram glanced at Declan before returning his eyes to the road. Reaching his hand toward Declan, Bram was grateful when he felt Declan’s hand settle into his. “Talk to me. What about your past aren’t you telling me? You didn’t even bother to tell me your mother had been murdered. Why?” Bringing Declan’s hand to his mouth, Bram kissed it. “I never considered Doreen to be my mother. That’s why I wasn’t upset enough by her death to tell you. I only thought about how you would feel when you found out she’d been murdered by your kidnapper. I just didn’t want to upset you any more than you already were.” He kissed Declan’s hand again. “I’m sorry if I made the wrong decision.” “Tell me all of it, Bram. You may be my knight in shining armor but I can help you slay your dragons.” Declan moved over as far as the console would allow. Leaning over, he kissed Bram’s cheek. “I will. I promise. But we’re only about three miles from the ranch.” Bram turned and gave Declan a kiss. “Tonight. While I’m holding you in my arms, I’ll tell you the 43

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whole sordid story.” Bram checked the piece of paper on the dash for the name of the road he needed to turn onto. When he made the turn, he slowed the car to a stop. He turned to Declan and kissed him again. Looking at Declan’s poor battered face, Bram sighed. He feathered a touch over the stitched area on the side of Declan’s cheek. “I love you. I’ll do everything in my power to keep you safe. And I’ve got a great group of friends who are all badasses. You’ll be fine.” Declan cupped Bram’s cheek. “I’m not worried about myself. Whoever this guy is, he’s sick. It was evident in the way he talked to himself. It’s like there’s a war going on inside his head.” Leaning in, Bram touched his lips to Declan’s. Declan parted for him right away and Bram’s tongue delved into the warm recesses of Declan’s mouth. After a few minutes, Bram pulled back and rested his forehead against Declan’s. “Maybe we’ll get lucky and Nicco and Mac won’t be there to meet us. I’d like a nice long nap with you.” “Mmm, sounds good to me too, knight.” Declan smiled at his new endearment for Bram. Bram chuckled and drove the remaining distance to the ranch. When they pulled in, Bram couldn’t believe his eyes. This ranch of Lilly’s must’ve been worth a fortune. It was the picture-perfect Southwestern-style ranch, complete with an expansive Spanishstyle hacienda. “Wow,” Declan said from beside him. “This place is awesome.” “That it is.” Bram pulled his rented SUV behind Nicco’s in the circle drive. He turned to Declan as he shut off the car. “Doesn’t look like we’re going to get that nap.” Declan smiled, “We’ve got all the time in the world.” Bram got out and went around to open Declan’s door just as Nicco and Mac came out the front of the hacienda. “Hey, guys. Give me a second to help Declan.” Bram held Declan’s hand as he climbed out of the tall SUV. Leaning in, Bram kissed him. “Love you.” Declan smiled and nodded. “I know.” 44

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“Break it up. Nicco, get their bags out of the back.” Mac eased his way in between Declan and Bram. He gave Declan a big hug. “How’re you doing, Doc?” He pulled back to look at Declan. Bram could tell by the muscles in Mac’s jaw that he felt almost as angry about what had happened as he did. Mac looked over at Bram. “I’ll gladly help you catch the SOB who did this. Consider me, Nicco and Amir at your disposal.” Bram watched as Nicco took the two small bags and Declan’s backpack into the house. “Where’s Amir?” “He’ll be here by suppertime. He’s holding a class at the training facility.” Mac led the two men indoors. “Momma Lilly’s out riding but she should be coming in anytime. Step on into the great room and have a cool drink.” Mac showed them to the great room, its two-story ceiling beautiful with their exposed timbers. Nicco came in with a tray of lemonade. “I’d offer you two a beer but I figured Doc better stick with something nonalcoholic.” He set the tray on the coffee table and passed out the glasses. Declan and Bram took a seat on one of the red leather couches as Mac and Nicco sat across from them on the other one. Bram put his arm around Declan and tucked him safely against his body. Declan snuggled right up and yawned. Bram kissed the top of his head. “I think the journey wore my patient out.” Nicco smiled, “Why don’t we show the two of you to the apartment? We can talk at supper. That way you won’t have to go through everything twice. I’m sure Amir will want to know what’s going on, as well as Lilly.” Nicco and Mac stood and each picked up a bag. Nicco swung the backpack over his shoulder. Bram helped Declan up and followed them through to the kitchen. Mac opened a door and went up a flight of stairs. “I think you’ll be comfortable. The three of us lived here for a while until we bought our place in town.” Opening yet another door at the top of the staircase, Mac stepped into the room as Nicco, Bram and Declan followed. Looking around the spacious one-bedroom apartment, Bram smiled. “This will be perfect.” He pointed to the door. “Is there another way in from the outside?” 45

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Nicco walked over to the far side of the kitchen. “This door takes you outside to a small landing and a set of stairs. Both doors have deadbolts, so you should be safe.” Checking the door and lock for himself, Bram turned to Nicco. “What about Lilly? Aren’t you afraid she might get in the line of fire?” Nicco clapped him on the back. “Already taken care of. Mac and I bought her a vacation package. She’s going on a ten-day cruise through Alaska next week.” Nicco looked over at Mac. “We love you guys but I have to keep Momma safe. She’s delighted, though. She’s taking her horse trainer with her.” He winked at Doc and Bram. “I think she might be just a tad sweet on him.” Confused, Bram asked the one question which came to mind. “I thought Lilly was gay?” Shaking his head, Mac chuckled. “Lilly says she’s attracted to people, not genders.”

***** After Nicco and Mac said their goodbyes, Bram led Declan to the bedroom. “Come on, time to get you into bed. It looked like you were about to fall asleep on the couch a few minutes ago.” Following Bram to the bedroom, Declan reached out and ran his hand over Bram’s ass. “Good acting, wasn’t it? You said you wanted to take a nap, so I used my injuries as an excuse. Pretty tricky, aren’t I?” Declan stopped beside the bed and pulled his shirt off. He looked at a dumbstruck Bram. “Well, you gonna get naked or what?” Bram ripped his t-shirt off over his head and tossed it to the floor. He had his shoes, jeans and underwear off in record time. When he was completely naked, he began stroking his cock as he watched Declan take off his jeans. “Lube?” Declan looked up, zeroed in on Bram’s cock and licked his lips. “I don’t have any. I didn’t figure I’d need it when I left home.” He kicked out of his jeans and walked toward Bram. Wrapping his arms around him, he nuzzled against his chest as Bram’s cock left wet kisses on his abdomen. 46

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Moving his hands to grip Declan’s ass, Bram pulled him closer. He began to rub back and forth against Declan. “Maybe our friends left some behind.” Bram released Declan long enough to check the drawer beside the bed. He started laughing as he held up a giant bottle of expensive lube tied with a red ribbon. “Damn, I love those guys.” “Hey.” Declan bit Bram’s nipple. “I’m the man you’re supposed to love.” He tried his best to maintain a serious face but couldn’t hold it and smiled. He turned toward the bed and drew back the covers. “Come on, knight. Bring your mighty sword and get in here.” Declan held up the covers as Bram crawled in beside him. God, love was making him a corny fool. “Sure you feel up to this? I’d be content to just hold you in my arms while you sleep.” Bram ran his hand over Declan’s soft lips. “Need to feel you. I want to be one with you.” Declan parted his legs as Bram’s hand traveled down his body to grip his aching cock. Moaning, Declan spread even farther and thrust into Bram’s hand. Declan reached over and ran his hand up the length of Bram’s cock to the weeping crown. He pushed his thumb against the slit and was rewarded with even more pre-cum. Declan lifted his thumb to his mouth and licked it clean while maintaining eye contact with Bram. Groaning, Bram covered Declan’s body with his own. He insinuated himself between Declan’s thighs and slid down far enough to wrap his lips around Declan’s erection. “Oh God. Oh. Yes.” Declan began thrusting up into Bram’s mouth. Bram held Declan’s hips to the bed with his hands as he took him all the way to the back of his throat. “Oh fuck,” Declan rasped, watching as Bram deep-throated him. Never before had anyone been able to do this for him. When Bram introduced a spit-slicked finger into his puckered hole, Declan lost it and shot his seed down Bram’s throat. His cock continued to pulse as Bram eased off and sucked the crown of his shaft.

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After cleaning Declan’s cock, Bram licked his way up Declan’s body to his lips. Bram pushed his tongue inside and shared Declan’s flavor with him. “Mmm, I taste good.” “You sure do.” Bram reached over to the table and grabbed the bottle of lube. He squirted a generous amount onto his hand and fingers. Reaching down, he rimmed Declan’s rosette. Pushing one inside slowly, Bram looked into Declan’s eyes as he introduced another. The stretch and slight burn fueled Declan’s desire as he pushed against Bram’s hand, begging for more. Bram worked him with the two fingers for several more minutes before inserting a third. When Declan was sufficiently stretched, Bram pulled out and lubed his cock. Declan reached down and drew his legs up against his chest, presenting his well stretched hole. Bram knelt between Declan’s spread thighs and rolled a condom on. He bent over and kissed his stomach. “Damn, you’re sexy.” Giving Bram his most coy smile, Declan shook his head. “I’m just Doc. You’re the sexy beast.” Putting the head of his cock against Declan’s hole, Bram slowly pushed his way inside. “So good,” Bram moaned. Once he was fully seated, he allowed Declan a few moments to become accustomed to his size. “Ready?” “Yeah. Fuck me.” Declan groaned as Bram thrust in and out of his body. When Bram’s heavy cock brushed across Declan’s prostate he almost shot off the bed. “Yes. There. Again.” He managed to grunt the words out through clenched teeth. He started to feel like his entire body was going to explode as Bram pegged his gland again and again. “Oh love.” Wrapping his hand around his own cock, Declan stroked himself to the rhythm of Bram’s thrusts. “Gonna come.” Giving his cock a few more pulls, Declan shot cum all over his hand and stomach. “Yeeesss.” Bram howled as Declan’s body tightened around the thick shaft still buried in his ass. Bram grunted to the ceiling and came. Bram collapsed to the side of Declan so he 48

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could lower his legs and stripped off the condom, tossing it into the trash can beside the bed. Bram reached out and massage Declan’s still-quivering thighs. While he massaged, he dotted each bruise on Declan’s face with a soft kiss. “Love you.” Declan yawned. “Love you,” he mumbled as he tucked his head under Bram’s chin and fell asleep.

***** Waking several hours later, Declan rubbed his now-renewed erection against Bram’s soft, warm cock. Nibbling his way up his neck, he licked Bram’s lips. Bram smiled and pulled Declan tighter. “Hey, you.” “Hey, yourself.” Bram’s cock hardened in an instant as Bram rubbed back. “We should probably get a shower. But this is nice.” He kissed Declan slowly and deeply, thrusting his tongue to twine with Declan’s. Reaching down, Bram gathered both cocks in his hand and stroked as he continued to thrust his hips against Declan’s. “So glad you’re safe. So glad you don’t hate me.” Declan smoothed Bram’s hair out of his face. “Never could hate you. Love you, yeah?” “Yeah. Love.” Bram began to stroke faster as Declan’s breathing picked up. “I’m keeping you.” “Mmm. You’ve got me.” Declan thrust his hips faster to match Bram’s strokes. “Gonna.” “Yeah. Come for me. Shoot all over me.” Declan grunted and warmth spread up between them. The heat and grunts of Declan’s release pushed Bram over too, as his heat combined with Declan’s. Leaning in, Bram licked Declan’s earlobe. “Mine.” “Yours, forever.” Declan opened his eyes. “I love my job and the facility but I love you more. If I need to, I’ll move back to New York with you, but I won’t be without you again.” Declan reached over the side of the bed and picked up his t-shirt to clean them both up. 49

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Bram took the shirt away from Declan. He lifted his chin and looked him in the eye. “You’d do that for me?” Declan smiled, “In a New York minute.” Using the t-shirt, Bram began to clean the cum off Declan’s stomach. “I would never ask you to do that but just that you would offer blows me away. You love your job and that facility. You belong there, Declan. My brother’s there, and by the sound of it, I don’t think he’s leaving any time soon. So I guess my decision is made. I never loved New York. It was the farthest I could get from Arizona.” After he finished cleaning Declan, Bram cleaned his own hand and stomach. “Don’t really know what the hell I’m going to do for a living in Oklahoma. But as much as I love you, I’ll work at the damn gas station if I have to.” Bram threw the t-shirt on the floor and pulled Declan into his arms once more. “I need to tell all of you about my past. If you don’t mind, can I just tell the story once? At dinner, maybe?” Bram’s eyes began to sting and he could tell by the look on Declan’s face he saw Bram’s tears. Declan nodded, “I don’t want you to talk about it if it’s going to hurt.” Declan smoothed his hands over Bram’s chest. “You all have a right to know. I’ve involved too many people to keep my secrets to myself. One thing I’ll share with you now is my name. As far as I know, Thor and I are the only ones who know my real name.” Declan lifted his head and looked at Bram. “What are you talking about? I just assumed your name must be Abraham or something similar.” Shaking his head, Bram pulled Declan back down to his chest. “My name is Bramble. Thor’s name is Thorn. You get the picture of just how much our parents hated us from the time of our birth?” “I don’t understand. Why would they have you if they hated you?” Declan ran his finger around Bram’s nipple in thought. “They couldn’t inherit from my father’s family unless they had children. My parents used to joke about it all the time, the fact that they were smart enough to have a 50

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spare son in case something happened to me.” Bram bit the side of his cheek to keep from breaking down. “That’s enough for now. Let’s get a quick shower and head downstairs. Maybe Lilly’s back from her ride.”

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Chapter Six “Lilly, that was fantastic,” Bram said, wiping his mouth with a napkin. “It’s been ages since I’ve eaten a home-cooked pot roast.” He looked over at Declan’s almost full plate. “Not feeling well, Declan?” Shrugging, Declan mumbled something Bram couldn’t hear. He leaned closer. “What?” Declan looked up at Lilly. “I’m sorry, ma’am. I just don’t have much of an appetite.” He looked over at Bram and bit his lip. With tears in his eyes, he said two words. “Tell me.” Closing his eyes against the pain he saw in Declan’s face, Bram pulled him into his arms. “If everyone’s finished, I’d like a word with you all in the great room.” Nodding, the rest of the people at the table rose. Amir headed for the kitchen. “By the look on your face, I’m going to guess and say everyone will need a stiff drink.” Amir disappeared as the rest of the group arranged themselves on the two sofas. Lilly sat on the opposite end of the sofa with Bram, who pulled Declan into his lap. He didn’t care how it looked to anyone else. Bram could tell his man needed this right now. Amir came back with a bottle of whiskey and a bottle of red wine. He disappeared again and came back with glasses on a tray. After everyone had their drink of choice, Bram began to tell them about his childhood. He spoke of the times he was locked in the basement for weeks on end and about being beaten several times a week by Lucky while his mother laughed. The cigarette burns to his young body, the way his parents forced him to eat the table scraps for his meals and, worst of all, the constant berating they did to their son. Bram choked on tears as he relived every horrifying act his parents had put him through.

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Declan couldn’t stand any more. “Shh.” He tried to dry Bram’s face with his shirt. “No more. I can’t watch you do this to yourself.” Bram kissed him and looked toward his friends. “They never touched Thor. I always thought it was just me they hated. That’s the only reason I left him there when Lucky kicked me out. It wasn’t until I got the call from the hospital in Flagstaff that I realized the magnitude of my mistake. It seems after I left, Lucky and Doreen just couldn’t help themselves. They began torturing Thor like they’d done me. When Thor tried to fight back during one of his beatings, Lucky hit him across the back with a pipe. He hit a ten-year-old boy hard enough to paralyze him.” Bram started to cry again. “It was my fault. I knew they were monsters and I left my own brother right in the middle of it. And Thor will pay for my mistake for the rest of his life.” “No!” Declan jumped off Bram’s lap and seemed to tower over him. “You did nothing wrong. You weren’t the one who beat his children, so none of it’s your fault. Thor’s a happy, well-adjusted man because of you. You did that. Not the people that should have been responsible. You. I won’t sit by and let you do this. I won’t.” Declan bent and poured a full glass of whiskey into his empty wineglass. He drank it in one gulp and sighed. Turning back to Bram, he crawled into his lap. “I love you, Bramble Blackstone. You’re a good man. No.” Declan shook his head. “You are a great man. And I love you.” Looking into Declan’s eyes, Bram could tell he meant every word he’d said. “Thank you.” He kissed him softly. Turning his attention back to the group, he began again. “Whoever did this to Declan hates me for some reason. I don’t know a reason other than I’m the one whose testimony sent Lucky to prison. He died two years into his sentence in a fight with another inmate.” Bram snorted. “Poetic justice, if you ask me. Lucky finally found someone he couldn’t pick on. “Declan told me his kidnapper looked like he could be my twin. That tells me one thing. He has to be related. I talked to Thor yesterday and he told me Lucky had several girlfriends. I believe he fathered another child by one of these women. I guess this guy’s

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upset about Lucky. But it doesn’t really explain why he’d kill Doreen.” Bram ran his fingers through his hair. “Any ideas?” He looked toward his friends who were all pouring themselves another healthy glass of whiskey. It took awhile before any of them could speak. The horrors they’d all just listened to were still fresh in their minds. Finally, Nicco looked at Bram with fresh tears in his eyes. “Fuck, man. You’re my hero. Most men would have become a completely different person than who you turned out to be. You went to Arizona when you got that call from the hospital and never looked back. You took a young paralyzed boy to New York and raised him into a damn fine man.” Nicco shook his head. “I never would have realized.” Nicco cut himself off when Mac and Amir both took his hands. Amir, the silent warrior of the group, looked over at Bram. “I say we find him instead of waiting for him to find you. Get on the computer and start doing your thing Bram. You’re the best damn investigator I know. This is your most important case ever. Treat it as such and you’ll find out who this guy is.”

***** For the next week, Bram tried calling Lucky’s old friends from the reservation and Flagstaff to find information on Lucky’s past girlfriends. He hit a dead end every time. No one wanted to talk to him. They still felt he’d betrayed his family by testifying against their friend. Bram decided he needed to go back to Arizona. Declan was in the kitchen of the apartment making lunch when Bram found him. Wrapping his arms around Declan, Bram kissed his neck. “Smells good.” He looked at the big pot of chili on the stove. “Looks like you’re making enough to feed an army, though.” Declan nudged backward with his ass. “I’m feeding all of us. Mac, Nicco and Amir are coming out for dinner tonight after they drop Lilly off at the airport.” Declan leaned back against Bram. “Find anything?”

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“No.” Bram took the giant spoon out of Declan’s hand and put it down on the stove. He led Declan over to a kitchen chair and pulled him into his lap. “I need to go to Arizona. I need to search some records that I can’t view over the internet.” Shaking his head vehemently, Declan held Bram’s chin. “No. Call the detective. He can get records you can’t anyway. If it’s a way to catch this guy, it’s his job. I won’t let you go back there.” Blowing out a breath, Bram closed his eyes. He knew Declan was right about Detective Smally. “I’ll call him. See what he says. If he’ll do what I ask him to do, then I’ll stay here. But if he tells me no, I’ll have to go on my own. You won’t be safe until this crazy fuck is found.” Bram ran his hand down the side of Declan’s face. “And I won’t take another chance with you.” Declan stood and stripped off his clothes. He went over and turned the stove off before facing Bram. “Get naked for me. I need you.” Smiling, Bram stood and stripped. He took his lover’s hand and led him out of the kitchen. Falling onto the bed, Bram crawled on top of Declan. “Figured you’d be sore after this morning. Glad you’re not though.” He began rubbing his face against Declan’s neck and jaw, kissing and nipping at the smaller man’s fading bruises. “Love you.” Squirming under him, Declan ran his fingers through Bram’s hair. “Love you and I’ll never be too sore for you. Love the feel of you inside me.” Bram began rocking lazily, rubbing his cock alongside of Declan’s. Despite what Declan said, Bram knew he was sore by the way he moved. Looking into Declan’s eyes, he leaned in and whispered in his ear. “Fuck me, Declan.” Doing a double take, Declan’s jaw dropped. “What?” Smiling, Bram nodded his head. “I asked you to fuck me. Why? Don’t you want to?” Swallowing several times, Declan nodded. “Uh, yeah. But I’ve never done it before.” He looked away, his face going red.

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Bram brought his face back to look him in the eyes. “Neither have I. You’re the first person I’ve ever trusted enough.” “Oh fuck, Bram. That’s just…wow.” Declan swallowed several more times and reached for the bottle of lube. Bram traded positions and flipped onto his stomach. Getting up onto his hands and knees, he looked at Declan. “This way will be easier for both of us.” Bram saw the fear in Declan’s eyes. “Don’t worry so much. I’ll let you know if you’re hurting me.” Declan nodded and squirted lube onto his hand and down the crack of Bram’s ass. Bram shivered at the totally new sensation. When Declan ran his finger around Bram’s rosette, Bram groaned. “Feels good.” Declan let out a sigh of relief and slowly inserted one finger. Bram was amazed at the feeling. It wasn’t at all like he’d imagined. Maybe it had something to do with opening himself up fully to another person for the first time in his life. “Good. Keep going.” Squirting more lube down the crevice of Bram’s ass, Declan inserted another finger. The slight pinch of pain was gone quickly and Bram turned his head toward Declan. “Move your fingers around against the walls of my body. Try to find the smooth gland. When you find it, stroke it with your fingers and then add another.” Nodding, Declan looked like he was about to come. Bram felt his fingers begin to move and then, at last, “Oh yeah. There. Do it again.” Declan brushed his gland again and quickly inserted another finger. Bram felt so full, he lowered his arms and rested his head on the pillow. “So full. Christ.” Declan moved the three fingers in and out of Bram slowly. “Are you ready?” “Oh God, yes.” Bram turned his head enough to see Declan out of his peripheral vision. Fumbling with the condom, Declan eventually rolled it on. He held his cock by the base and put the head at Bram’s opening. “Tell me if I hurt you.” He started to push and seemed amazed when the head of his cock popped past the ring of muscles. Declan froze, seemingly afraid of hurting Bram. 56

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Getting his arms back under him, Bram pushed back, impaling himself on Declan’s cock. “Oh shit.” The pain was almost unbearable but Bram knew it would lessen as soon as his body fully engulfed Declan’s shaft. When he couldn’t push back any more, he knew Declan was fully seated inside him. “Give me a sec,” Bram panted. He took deep breaths until the pain faded and he was left with a pleasure so intense he almost came. Moving forward and then back again, Bram fucked himself on Declan’s huge cock. “It’s good. You can move.” “Thank God.” Declan began to slowly thrust in and out of Bram’s hole. “Not going to last.” He thrust harder and faster with each stroke. “Mmm-hmm. Yeah. Love you.” Bram lifted one arm and wrapped his hand around his cock. “Gonna.” “Yeah.” Declan swiveled his hips and buried himself deeply as he came. Bram yelled Declan’s name as he shot his seed into his fist. Collapsing, Declan fell on top of Bram. It was a few seconds before he pulled out and disposed of the condom. Declan grunted a “Good” before he fell asleep. Knowing he needed to call Detective Smally, Bram waited until Declan was sleeping hard. Getting out of bed, he covered Declan with the blanket and kissed his forehead.

***** Bram talked to the detective and explained what he was looking for. Smally was very helpful and said he’d get on it right away. Bram decided to work on the computer in Lilly’s study. Which was where Declan found him two hours later. “Find anything out?” Bram’s head snapped up and around. “I don’t know. I’ve put two calls into the detective in the last hour. I think I’ve found something but I need him to look at the hard copies for me.” Bram slid his chair back from the desk and held out his arms. “Come over here. Want to feel you in my arms.” 57

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Declan happily walked over and sat on Bram’s lap. Wrapping his arms around him, Declan leaned in for a nice slow kiss. “Thank you for earlier. It was quite an eyeopener.” Chuckling, Bram thrust up into Declan’s ass. “For me too. We’ll have to do that again sometime.” Running his hands over Bram’s chest, Declan nodded. “Once in a while it would be nice, but I like the feel of you inside me too much to become a top.” Declan bent and thrust his tongue inside Bram’s mouth. “Mmm. Someone’s been sampling the chili.” Swatting Declan’s ass, Bram kissed him again. “See what happens when you fall asleep on me.” Bram gave Declan a devilish smile. “So tell me what you think you found.” Declan began to push down the sweats Bram had on. Bram lifted his hips, aiding Declan in his task. “I found an old newspaper article from the town where I grew up. It said that I was born at home.” Bram closed his eyes as Declan began to lick his way around his cock and balls. “Go on,” Declan said between licks. “According to the article, which was written six months after I was born, my mom had given birth to twins. It went on to say my twin died of sudden infant death syndrome when I—we—were five months old.” Bram thrust his cock toward Declan’s mouth. Declan stopped what he was doing and looked up at Bram. “You had a twin? A forreal twin?” Knowing Declan wasn’t going to finish him off until he received his answers, Bram nodded. “I never heard anything about it growing up. Evidently, like everything else surrounding the Blackstone family, the death was quickly hushed. I asked Detective Smally to try to find a death certificate for my twin.” Bram ran his finger across Declan’s lips. “Guess what his name was?”

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Capturing Bram’s finger with his mouth, Declan seemed to be thinking about it as he sucked Bram’s finger. “Prickly?” “Close. Brier.” Bram pulled his finger out of Declan’s mouth and subtly guided him back down to his cock. Just before Declan took Bram’s throbbing cock into his mouth, Declan shook his head. “You sure had some sick fucks for parents, Bram.” Declan’s warmth enveloped Bram’s cock. He rested his head on the back of the chair and thrust in and out of Declan’s mouth. “Yes.” Declan moved just enough to position Bram’s feet against the top of the desk. The new position opened Bram up for further exploration. Declan pulled off Bram’s cock and licked his way back down to the heavy sac. He licked and kissed the sensitive sac as he wrapped his hand around Bram’s erection. Moving down farther, Declan rimmed Bram’s hole with his tongue. Bram thrust into his hand as he moaned. Declan bit and fucked the puckered opening with his tongue. Bram was close and watched as a good amount of pre-cum ran down over the top of his cock. Declan nibbled his way back up and swallowed Bram’s shaft. Bram grunted and released his seed into Declan’s throat. Licking him clean, Declan crawled back up to snuggle in Bram’s lap. “So tell me what Smally is hoping to find with the death certificate.” Declan kissed his way up and down the side of Bram’s face. Bram’s brain felt like pure mush and Declan’s quick question threw him for a few seconds. Finally getting his body under control, he answered. “That there isn’t one.” Bram turned his head and sealed their lips together. The kiss deepened and Declan rubbed his hard cock against Bram’s stomach. Bram was unfastening Declan’s jeans when his cell phone rang. Declan reached behind him and picked the phone up from the desk. He looked at the display and handed it to Bram. “Smally. You’d better answer it.” 59

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Bram opened the phone and began to talk to Smally in short sentences as he continued to push Declan’s jeans off. Declan stood and kicked out of them. Sitting back on Bram’s naked lap, Declan did a little wiggle as Bram ground his teeth together to keep a moan from escaping. Deciding turnabout was fair play, Bram leaned forward to lick Declan’s nipple. Suddenly, Bram stiffened and leaned back in the chair. “Say that again?” He listened to Smally as he gripped Declan’s ass in his hand. No, no, no. Fuck, would the nightmare with his parents never end? After a few more words with Smally, Bram hung up. He set the phone back on the desk and buried his face in Declan’s neck. “What’s wrong?” Declan smoothed his hands over Bram’s shoulders. “What’d he find?” Bram said nothing else for a few minutes. He still couldn’t wrap his mind around the evil that gave birth to him. He pulled Declan against his chest. “Smally said there was no death certificate ever filed. He did say, however, that he found out where Brier had been all these years.” Wrapping his arms around Declan, Bram started to cry. “When he was five months old, Brier sustained a serious head injury. The doctors evidently told my parents he wouldn’t be able to function in society without intense rehabilitation. Of course, not wanting to be bothered, my parents placed him into a state-run mental hospital. And then after a few years, they gave up custody, making Brier a ward of the state.” Bram looked into Declan’s eyes. “I’ll give you one guess as to how a five-month-old could sustain such a traumatic injury.” Declan’s jaw dropped as he tried to take in this new development. “So why wasn’t anything done about it?” “Because it didn’t happen in Arizona. Evidently, Lucky and Doreen had taken a vacation with their two children. According to Smally, Lucky told the hospital in Texas that Brier had fallen off the hotel bed and hit his head on the nightstand. With my parents’ influence in the state of Arizona, the authorities believed Lucky. My brother was admitted into a state facility in Texas as soon as he was released from the hospital.

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He’s been at the facility basically his whole life until a little over two months ago when he managed to walk out. They still aren’t sure how he did it. I suspect with everything he’s managed to accomplish, Brier is functioning at a higher level than the doctors thought.” Bram worried a piece of Declan’s hair with his fingers. “That’s why I thought he seemed so crazy. I told you it was like there were two people in his head. He kept arguing with himself.” Declan looked into Bram’s eyes. “I’m not sure he would have killed either one of us, if it had come down to that.” Bram gave a bark of laughter. “He tried to do just that to you, Declan. How can you defend him?” Declan ran his palms down the side of Bram’s face. “Because he’s your brother, and he’s sick by no fault of his own. It’s the same reason I stayed with Scott for so long. You need to find him, Bram, and get him the help he needs. It could have just as easily been you that took that blow to the head. I think you’ve all suffered enough. It’s time to start the healing process. But you can’t do that until you find him.” “That’s the million-dollar question. Where would Brier go?” He pulled Declan back against his chest and idly rubbed his scars. “I think I need to go to Arizona. I have an idea of where he might have gone.” Licking Bram’s lips, Declan looked up into his eyes. “Wherever he is, you can’t go alone. I understand the need for you to find him but at least take Mac, Amir and Nicco with you.” “All right, I’ll ask them to come over for dinner early. I’d like to leave first thing in the morning.” Just the thought of having a twin that he hadn’t known about boiled his blood. It was a damn good thing Lucky and Doreen were already dead. That thought brought him up short. What would he do to them? Kill them? Was he more like his parents than he ever thought? No, he refused to think that way. He was nothing like those vile people. Deciding to take the night off from his troubles, Bram reached down and stroked Declan’s cock. “Let’s go upstairs. I plan to love you now and all night long.” 61

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Declan thrust into Bram’s fist. “I can live with that plan.”

***** That night at dinner, Bram told the threesome about his brother, Brier. “I’m going back to the family home tomorrow. That’s where I think he is.” Bram looked at each of his friends from across the table. “I’d like a little backup, if any of you can spare the time. I’m hoping I can get to him before the police do.” Amir rested his arms on the table and leaned forward. “Why would he be at your family’s home? Wouldn’t the police still be there investigating.” Bram shook his head. “Detective Smally asked me yesterday what I wanted him to do about the house. They’ve dusted it already and extracted Doreen’s body. He said they might need to get back in at some point but they didn’t find much except some stray fingerprints in the kitchen.” Bram reached under the table and took Declan’s hand. “I think that house is important to some part of Brier. I just feel in my gut that if he’s not here already, he’s there.” Mac looked at Amir and Nicco. “I think it would be best if Amir went with you and Nicco and I kept watch here.” Mac glanced at a still-bruised Declan. Bram nodded and squeezed Declan’s hand tighter. “Why don’t you take him back to your place in town? I just don’t like the thought of him out here without me.” Declan narrowed his eyes at Bram. “I’m not totally helpless, Bram. I may be a lot smaller than you four, but I’m not a child, either.” Leaning over, Bram kissed him. “I’m sorry, I know you’re not a child. I just won’t take chances with you anymore. Amir and I will go to Arizona in the morning and hopefully we’ll be back within a day.” “Okay. I won’t argue with you about it. I know none of this is easy for you. Just come back to me as soon as you can.” Declan kissed Bram again. “Have you called Thor?”

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“No. I don’t want him to know anything about Brier until I find him and he’s put somewhere where he can’t hurt anyone else.”

***** Morning came too soon for Declan. He hated the thought of Bram putting himself in harm’s way. Watching his knight sleep, Declan thought about the future. Maybe Bram could get on with the Styler police department? Maybe they could find something for him to do at the center? Bram smiled and opened his eyes. “Hey. What are you thinking about so hard?” Bram snuggled his body against Declan’s. “Just wondering what you’re going to do at the ranch if you move there.” Declan began to play with Bram’s silky hair. “You mean when I move there.” Bram kissed him. “I’ve got enough money to retire and just volunteer my time at the center or I can help Rex and Gabe out with the cattle.” Bram ran his hands down Declan’s back to land on his butt. “Don’t worry about me. I’ll be just fine as long as I’m with you.” Bram ran his finger down the crack of Declan’s ass. “Pass me the lube. I need to love you before I have to leave.” Declan stretched to the side and snagged the bottle off the table. Handing it to Bram, he switched places. “Which way do you want me?” “Every way. But for now, get on your back so I can see your face when you come.” Bram squirted lube onto his hand as Declan bent his legs and put his feet flat on the bed. He pushed into Bram’s hand as he moaned his pleasure. “You’re so sexy,” Bram said, slipping another finger into the tight opening. Scissoring them, Bram slowly stretched Declan’s hole. “Now. Need you in me.” Declan slipped his legs over Bram’s shoulders, as Bram withdrew his fingers, and pushed his cock in fully. “Fuck, that feels good.” Bram pumped his cock in and out of Declan’s hole.

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They were both in such a state of bliss that they didn’t hear someone else enter the room. Declan grabbed his cock and stroked his way to completion as Bram pounded into him several more times. Bram screamed Declan’s name to the ceiling and filled his lover with his seed.

Collapsing on Declan’s chest, Bram turned his head to the side and spotted the intruder. He immediately rolled and dumped Declan onto the floor, on the other side of the bed. “Stay down, Declan.” Looking at his brother was like looking into a mirror. Brier was holding a very large hunting knife. “Brier?” Brier’s eyes rounded. “Brier, it’s me, Bramble. I was coming to look for you today. I thought you might need my help.” Bram slowly sat up on the bed, his eyes never leaving Brier’s. Bram couldn’t keep his voice from cracking as tears began to trickle down his face. The man in front of him looked so confused, lost, angry. “I didn’t know about you until yesterday, Brier. You have to believe that. If I’d known, I would have found you earlier.” Brier shook his head and began to pace back and forth in front of the bed. He absently scratched his head with the knife as he began talking to himself. “Left me. Alone too long. Left me.” “No. I didn’t leave you. Lucky and Doreen left you. I was coming to look for you. You’re my brother. My twin. We’re a part of each other. You and me.” Bram slowly moved to the edge of the bed. He could see rivulets of blood running down the side of Brier’s face and neck. Just then, he was more afraid Brier would hurt himself with the knife and Bram knew he had to get it away from him. The more agitated Brier became, the deeper the knife cut into his own scalp. “We have another brother, Thorn. Lucky beat him with a pipe and now he’s in a wheelchair. Did you know about Lucky? About me testifying against him? Is that why 64

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you’re angry with me? Because I put Lucky in prison for beating me and Thorn?” Brier stopped for several seconds and looked at Bram. “I was supposed to kill them. I worked it out. Me, not you. They deserved it. They left me there.” Standing, Bram held out his arms. “You’re right. They did deserve it. And you deserve to be loved. Let me love you, brother.” Bram could barely see through the tears clouding his vision. Brier looked sideways at Bram and shook his head. “Brother?” “Yes, Brier. I’m your brother and I love you. Put down the knife and give me a hug.” Bram held his breath until a completely different look crossed Brier’s face. He dropped the knife to the floor and slowly walked toward Bram. “That’s it,” Bram coaxed. “Let me be your brother.” Brier walked into Bram’s arms and wrapped his own around Bram so hard he thought he’d pass out. “Not so tight, Brier. Like this.” Bram held Brier at a comfortable pressure. Brier’s arms slowly loosened to match Bram’s. “Brother. I’ve been so lonely.” Brier pulled back and looked wide-eyed at Bram. “I found my records in the doctor’s office at the hospital-home. It told me who I used to belong to. I’ve been looking for my family.” Brier suddenly gasped, as if he’d just remembered something. “I killed our mother. She kept calling us names. I wanted to find her for years, so she could be my mommy again, but when I found her she called us names.” Brier scrubbed his hands across his face. The rivulets of blood still oozing from the cuts on Brier’s head smeared across his face. “She told me about you. Where to find you. She said it was all your fault that they left me.” Bram closed his eyes and pulled his brother back into his embrace. “No, that’s not true. I was just a baby, like you. I didn’t even know I had a twin until yesterday. I was going to go to Lucky’s house this morning and look for you. I want to make it up to you. I want us to be brothers. But I need to get your cuts looked at. And we need to call the police. But Brier, listen to me.” Bram turned Brier’s head so they were looking into 65

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each other’s eyes. “I will never leave you again. We’ll figure something out with the police. You’re my brother and Thorn’s brother. Brothers stick together, no matter what.” Brier looked over toward Declan, who was now standing on the other side of the bed. “Didn’t want to hurt you. I was confused. I thought Bram did this to me.” Brier shook his head. “I should have known better. Will you be my brother too?” Bram knew Brier didn’t quite know what he was saying or asking for. It was obvious he’d never been loved by anyone, until now. And Bram did love him. He couldn’t explain it but it was deep and immediate upon seeing his twin face-to-face. It didn’t matter what Brier had done. Shit. Bram’s eyes searched Declan’s. Just because he could forgive Brier didn’t mean the man he loved could. What would he do if Declan rejected Brier? Bram’s questions were answered as Declan smiled at him. “It’s okay, Bram. I understand. Don’t forget, I loved someone despite his mental state. Love overcomes everything.” Holding out his arms, Brier silently asked Declan for a hug. Declan blushed and pointed toward his clothes. “If you don’t mind, let me put some jeans on first.” Bram started to chuckle as Brier looked at Declan like he was crazy. Bram’s chuckles turned into full-blown belly laughs as the past finally released him.

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Epilogue

Three months later Bram pulled his SUV into the parking lot. He climbed out and went to the back to get Thor’s chair. Getting Thor unloaded, Bram smiled down at him. “Hope you don’t mind me just dropping you off here but I’ve got someone to see.” Bram took off at a run toward the rehabilitation center. He pushed the doors open and scanned the large room. No one seemed to be present except Kelly. “Hey, Kelly,” Bram said, waving to Thor’s fiancée. “Where’s Declan?” Kelly smiled and hopped up from behind the desk. “He’s at home on his lunch hour. Is Thor with you?” She looked behind Bram. Just then his baby brother came wheeling through the doorway. “Come over here, Buttons, and welcome me home.” Kelly ran to Thor and jumped on his lap. As the two of them started kissing, Bram left to find Declan. Walking into the house, he found his man in the kitchen making some lemonade. “Hey, I’m home.” He stood with his feet spread apart waiting for the inevitable welcome home he received every time he went away. Declan’s eyes lit up, and he bounded his way over to Bram and jumped into his arms. Without saying a word, Declan pressed his lips to Bram’s. The kiss was long and deep, until both men had to come up for air. “Missed you.” Declan rubbed his nose against Bram’s. “Missed you too. But it looks like we won’t have to be gone every couple of weeks again. The judge has okayed Brier’s transfer to the state hospital in Norman.” Declan wrapped his legs tighter around Bram. “That’s fantastic. How is he?” Bram walked over to the sofa and sat down with Declan still clinging to him. “He’s fantastic. He’s even managed to amaze his doctors. They think eventually he’ll be well 67

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enough to leave the hospital.” Bram kissed Declan again. “I can’t tell you how much he reminds me of…me. We have the same facial expressions and the same mannerisms. It’s downright scary. I’ve always heard about the weird woo-woo between twins but I never thought that much about it.” Declan kissed him deep and hard. Their tongues dueled in a dance of passion. “You’re happier than I’ve ever seen you. It looks good on you.” “Yeah.” Bram smiled. “It feels pretty damn good on me too.” He thrust up against Declan. “And speaking of feeling good…” Bram’s voice drifted off as he laid Declan down on the couch. “We’re gonna have to invest in a slipcover for this couch.” Declan laughed as Bram attacked his mouth again.

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About the Author I’ve been a reading fanatic for years and finally at the age of forty decided to try my hand at writing. I’ve always loved romance novels that are just a little bit naughty so naturally my books tend to go just a little further. It’s my fantasy world after all. When I’m not being a mother to a five-year-old and a six-year-old, you can usually find me in my deep leather chair with either a book in my hand or my laptop.

Carol welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

Tell Us What You Think We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email us at [email protected].

Also by Carol Lynne Feels So Right Finnegan’s Promise Men in Love 1: Branded by Gold Men in Love 2: Ben’s Wildflower Men in Love 3: Open to Possibilities Men in Love 4: Completing the Circle Men in Love 5: Going Against Orders Riding the Wolf Sex With Lex

Discover for yourself why readers can’t get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Ellora’s Cave. Whether you prefer e-books or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.

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