~*RussianPrey*~

By:Sandrine Gasq-Dion ~Dedication~

To myFamily.
Jenjo, Jenand Kim.

As always, myreaders at LRO for their support.

Theresa Webber for the cover art! A specialthanks to The

Dreamcatcher B&B for their hospitality.
JenofJennifer F Photographyfor the beautifulpictures ofthe
cover model.
Specialthanks to Chris Rockwayfor puttingup withone
hundred degree or more temperatures and curious bugs -
youlook fantastic!!
© Copyright 2012 This a work offiction and anyresemblance
to persons, livingor dead, or business establishments, events or
locales is coincidental. AllRights Are Reserved. No part ofthis
maybe used or reproduced inanymanner whatsoever without
writtenpermission. WARNING:This book contains
materialthat maybe offensive to some:Violence, graphic
language, homosexual relations, adult situations. Life without
love…is no life at all….
~PROLOGUE~ 5 CHAPTER ONE 12 CHAPTER TWO
35 CHAPTER THREE 53 CHAPTER FOUR 70 CHAPTER
FIVE 82 CHAPTER SIX 114 CHAPTER SEVEN 143
CHAPTER EIGHT 160 CHAPTER NINE 184 EPILOGUE
222
SNEAK PEEK AT “AN IGNITED PASSION” 225
~Prologue~
November 15, 1984 Vologda Oblast, Russia
Vince was jarred awake bythe sounds ofthe wounded and
dying. The cold brick floor bit throughhis thinlayer ofclothing.
The cellwas dark againand the November cold was
seepingthroughthe cracks inthe wall.
Sixmonths theyhad beeninOgnenny
Ostrovmaximumsecurityprison. The prison itselfwas
surrounded byLake Novozero; there was no escape,
especiallyinthe middle ofwinter. The temperatures were inthe
negatives. Vince crawled to the hayinthe corner and tried to
warmup. His thinT-shirt did nothingto keep himwarm. His
pants were fullofholes. The few times he’d beenable to
washthem, he’d almost frozento death waitingfor themto dry.
He knew he was filthy; theywere givena bowloflukewarm
water everyother dayto cleanup.
Theyhad accused his father ofbeinga traitor, but Mischa
Markovwas no traitor. Vince had beentrained byhis father, who
had beenhead ofthe RussianArmybefore workingfor the
government. Theyhad been takeninthe middle ofthe night - he,
his mother and sister were dragged fromtheir beds and beaten.
Theywere throwninto separate cells and interrogated for hours
at a time. He hadn’t seenhis sister or mother in weeks. Food
was slid under the door, but most ofthe time he hadn’t eatenit.
It was old and moldyand the first few times he had eaten he’d
beensick for days.
He’d figured out prettyquicklythat his father was inthe
cellnext to him. Theycould speak throughthe cracks. The last
time he’d heard his father was two nights ago whenhe’d told
Vince to ‘remember the rule.’ Whenhe was twelve, his father
had taught himthe art of self-defense as wellas how to
turnoffpain. Now fifteen, he remembered the rule quite
well:Killor be killed.
 The door locks sounded and Vince sat up against the
wallwaitingto see which guard was comingto take him. There
were three:YakovPanchenko, Sacha Krupinand Igorek
Matveev. Theywere the ones in charge ofhis torture. He’d
made it a point to remember their names. Light illuminated the
cellfromthe opendoor and Vince squinted to see who was
there. Another guard, one he’d never seen, came into the cell.
“Theywillbe comingsoon. Whenthey take you, killthemand
make your wayto the furthest corridor. I have left youwhat
youwill need.”
Vince stood up and gripped the wall. “Why?”
“Your father is no traitor. I amafraid theywillkillyoualltonight.
It is too late for me to help withyour mother and sister.”
Vince grabbed the guard’s uniform. “What do youmeanit’s too
late?”
“Theywere takenanhour ago; I do not know what has
happened. I must go, they are coming.”
“Wait!”Vince gripped the man’s sleeve. “What is your name?”
“Marco.”
Vince sat back downonthe floor and heard the locks engage. A
few minutes later the door was opened byKrupin. Vince
shrank back, as he always did, and waited for the manto take
his arm. It had beenmonths with barelyanyfood or water and
his strength wasn’t what it used to be, but he knew whenit
came to life or deathhe was ready. He was escorted downthe
longhallwayto another room, one witha window. Inside were
his sister and mother, alongwithPanchenko and Matveev. A
slow, buildinglaughcame from Krupinas Panchenko raised a
knife to his mother’s throat.
“Yousee what happens to traitors, Vincent?”Krupinleaned into
his ear. “We have alreadykilled your father, now youwill
watchas we killthem, too.”
Vince went for the door and heard the screams frominside the
room. Bothhis mother’s and sister’s throats had beencut and
theynow layat the feet ofthe guards who had killed them.
Thenthe rage came. His father had told himthat whenit came it
would be as ifa veilofred covered everything.
He lunged for Krupin, throwinghim against the wall.
Gettingloose, he randown the hallwaytheyhad just come
fromand made for the one he’d beendirected to byMarco. The
alarms were goingoffas Vince found the supplies that had
beenleft for him. Footsteps echoed downthe hallas he ranfor
the roof.
The bitterlycold air stunghis lungs like a knife as he reached
the roofofthe prison. A half-moonhunginthe sky, makinghis
escape at least a little easier. He had seconds before he’d be
found. He opened the plastic bag. Shoes, pants, shirt, jacket,
aneight-inchlong huntingknife and a rope were inside, as well
as directions onwhere to go. Vince looked over the side ofthe
building; he’d have to wait for the clothes and shoes. He was
about to go swimming. Attachingthe rope to one ofthe sturdier
bricks, Vince crawled over the side and rappelled downthe
prison’s brick surface.
Fortunately, the water wasn’t
completelyfrozenbecause the supplyboat had beenthere
todayand had cut a path throughthe thick chunks ofice. Shots
were goingoffaround himas Vince dove in, the icy water
stinginghimlike thousands ofneedles. He could faintlyhear
menshouting, more gunshots crackingthe ice and the
prisonalarm goingoff. His hands and feet were becoming
numb as he swamfaster towards shore. Reachingit, he ranfor
the woods and kept running.
~~
Damonsat at the bar withhis associates. Doingbusiness
withthe Russians was becominga paininthe ass. Marco had
come back fromthe prisonwitha look that Damonknew well.
Mischa, Nadya and Viktoriya were dead. He’d beentoo late.
They’d takenthe trip to Rostanias soonas the letter had arrived
fromMischa Markov. They were beingheld prisoner as traitors,
and Mischa had begged for help. They’d done business before
and Damonhad takena liking to the Russianofficial.
“Mr. Santorno?”
Damonturned to see Marco inthe doorwayofthe bar. “Yes?”
“He’s coming, and theyare right behind him.”Marco closed the
bar’s door and grabbed for the guninhis waistband.
Damonstood and waited. The noise was gettingcloser and,
finally, the door to the bar was thrownopen. Damon’s eyes
went wide; the younger Markovwas covered in blood. He
looked feral.
“Marco! Take himinback now!”
Marco grabbed Vince and hauled him into a side room. The
kid was tryingto killhim the minute he put his hands onhim.
Marco took Vince’s face inhis hands.
“Stop!”Marco put his finger to his lips.
Vince closed his eyes and listened to the voices inthe bar.
Damonwas calmlytelling the menhe hadn’t seenanyone come
into the bar for hours.
“Are youcallingme a liar, Mr. Panchenko?”Damonarched a
brow.
“He was headed this way; we know he came throughhere.”
“Oh, did he? Or did he just make you think he did?”
“He killed fifteenofmyguards, Mr. Santorno,”Panchenko
growled.
“It is ofno consequence to me what this manhas
done,”Damonarched a brow and folded his arms over his
chest. “And now youare standinghere wastingprecious time.”
The guards alllooked at one another and Damonsighed
inirritation. “Would you like a shot ofvodka while youmullit
over?”
Marco held onto Vince as the men cleared out ofthe bar.
Allwas quiet and then Damontold themto come out. Marco
opened the door, keepingVince behind him. Damon sat at the
bar witha wide smile.
“Verygood, Mr. Santorno.”
“I have not gottenwhere I amtoday bypanicking, Marco.”
Damonlooked Vince over. “Get him ina hot shower and
cleanclothes and thenwe willtalk.”Damonstood and walked
over to Vince. “I ama friend ofyour father’s, Vince. I was told
ifanythingshould happenI amto take care ofyou.”
“I don’t need anyone,”Vince spat out defiantly.
Damonleaned over and looked into Vince’s eyes. “Youare
fifteenyears old and onyour own. Now get your ass inthe
shower.”Damonlooked up at Marco. “Watchhim.”
Damonwalked back over to the bar and sat down. “Oh, and
Marco?”
“Yes?”
“I have told yourepeatedlyto callme Damon.”
Marco smiled, takingVince’s arm. “Habit, sir.”
Damonsighed infrustration. “Take himand cleanhimup.”
Anhour later Vincent Markovwas sittinginfront ofhim,
showered and clothed. Damon’s heart ached lookingat the boy;
he’d lost everything.
“I have made arrangements for youto come home withme,
Vince. I willfinishyour education, and youwillfinishyour
training.”
“Whyshould I trust you?”Vince narrowed his eyes.
Damonhanded Vince a letter. “Because your father did.”
Vince looked over the letter. At first, he didn’t see
anythingexcept how theywere beingtreated fairly. Thenhis
eyes fellonthe first and second letter ofeachword. He looked
up at DamonSantorno. “It’s incode.”
Damonnodded. “The letter did not reachme soonenough. IfI
had known, allof youwould have beenout at once. I amknown
for stormingthe castle, as theysay. Now, one thingyoumust
know about me, Vince - I am not always a kind man. I
amvicious and ruthless whenI need to be.”
Vince sat back inthe chair. “Good, because I
planontakingmyrevenge very soon.”
Damonsat forward and clasped his hands together. “Ifyouseek
revenge, youwill have it, but onlywhenyouare ready. Marco
and Antonio willteachyoumore ofwhat your father started.
Untilthen, youwillnot make a move untilI sayso. Is that clear?”
Vince arched a brow. “I want them dead. Allofthem.”
“Thentheyshallbe.”
Damonstruggled raisingthe younger Markov. Vince shied
awayfromanyformof humancontact; he was defiant,
stubbornand cold. Damonsupposed he couldn’t blame the boy;
sixmonths oftorture would hardenany man. He tried, and
failed, to warmVince’s ice-cold interior. Theyhad formed
anuneasy relationship and Damontaught Vince at home as he
couldn’t be trusted ina normalschool environment. For two
years Vince trained with Marco and Antonio. At seventeen, he
carried out his revenge. Krupin, Panchenko and Matveevdied
intheir homes, tornlimb from limb withaneight-
inchhuntingknife.
Chapter One
Amalfi, Italy.
The smellofthe sea was strongthis morning. Vince sat back
onthe steps ofhis villa watchingas waves crashed against the
rocks below. It was peacefulhere. The move fromRussia was
welloverdue; it was Andrei’s home, not his. He’d put Russia
behind hima longtime ago and althoughhe missed it
sometimes, it would never be home again.
The sunwas risingonthe fishermen gettingreadyto leave for
the day. Italyhad become his mid-stationinlife; he had no idea
where to go fromhere. He was divorced with a child, and
forty… something. Vince chuckled.
“Yo, Pops.”
Vince turned to see his son, Nikolai, boundingdownthe
steps. Nikolaiwas an exact replica ofhimself. Sixfoot two,
black hair, withequallyblack eyes.
“What’s up? Youpacked?”
“Yep.”Nikolaisat downnext to his father. “Are yousure you’re
goingto be okay? I mean, I hate leavingyouhere alone.”
Vince mussed Nikolai’s hair. “I’llbe fine; besides, I canalways
come to Seattle and bugyou.”
Nikolailooked horrified. “Ohhell, Dad, I amnot goingto be
incompetitionwith youfor men.”
Vince laughed loud and smacked Nik’s arm. “Stop it. Did
youget a hold of Sebastian?”
Nikolaifrowned. “Not yet,
something’s up withhim, Pops. I think his dad is beinga
fucktard. I got a hold ofWyatt, though. I’llhangwithhimuntilI
find Bastian.”
Nikolaismiled at his dad. The divorce had beenciviland his
fathers had stayed close. Nikolaiknew his fathers loved
eachother but his pop could never openup completely. He’d
heard the storya milliontimes. WhenVince had gone to
killYakovPanchenko, the man’s sonhad beenhome.
Accordingto his dad, he just couldn’t killAndreiPanchenko for
the sins ofhis father and years later theymet againand
fellinlove. Now that was over.
Vince looked out across the water. “I need to find a new house
somewhere. Any suggestions?”
Nikolai’s brows pinched inthought. “Arizona?”
Vince sat back and arched a brow. “WhyArizona?”
“It’s hot as hell,”Nikolailaughed. “You’llfeelat home.”
“Smart ass.”Vince punched Nikolai playfullyinthe arm.
Nikolaihugged his father. “Ohcome on, Dad. Youneed to move
onand find a hot guy. I won’t be too far awayand I stillneed
youto trainme.”
“Youdon’t need anymore training, Nik.”Vince cupped
Nikolai’s face inhis hands. “Youalreadyknow everythingI do,
and beingmykid means fromtime to time you willhave to
defend yourself. So, keep up with it everyday.”
Nikolaismiled wicked. “I already have, remember? I know
who I amand where I come from. I’ve never beenashamed
ofwho myparents are. I’ma Markov,”Nikolai winked.
Vince hugged his sontightly. They’d always beenclose and
Nikolaiknew
everythingthere was to know about him. “I have to go see
Damon; I’mgoingto get Nardozzi.”
Nikolaipulled awayquickly. “Are you crazy? Is
Damonsendingyouwithanyone else?”
“Calmdown, Nik, I volunteered. You know I’mthe onlyone
who canbringthis asshole down.”
Nik stood up and paced. “I know you can, Dad. I stilldon’t like
it though. I cango with?”
“No.”Vince stood up and took Nikolaibythe shoulders.
“Youare goingto go to Seattle and visit Sebastian. Ifyoulike the
university, hell, youcango to college there.”
Nikolaismiled. “It is kinda gay friendly.”
“And youcanvisit me inhell.”Vince smacked Nik’s ass.
“Awesome!”
“Vincent?”
Vince turned to see Lorenzo coming downthe stairs. Vince
kissed Nikolai’s cheek. “Go on, I’llsee youina minute.”
Vince stood, waitingfor Lorenzo to reachhim. They’d
beenfriends a longtime and Lorenzo knew most ofhis deep,
dark secrets. WhenLorenzo had falleninlove, Vince had felt as
ifhe’d lost a friend. But, over time, he realized Reece had
beengood for Lorenzo. Reece had never tried to keep them
apart.
“What is it old man?”Vince cracked a grin.
Lorenzo frowned. “Youare older than me. Reptile.”
“That’s dinosaur,”Vince cracked up. “Doesn’t Reece
teachyouanything?”
“He taught me love,”Lorenzo said.
Vince scowled. “Not this again.”
“Youare not happy, I cantell. Why do youcontinue to
denyyourselflove? Do younot want a partner?”
“Youhave become a huge sap,” Vince sighed,
lookingLorenzo inthe eye. “I love Reece to death, but he’s
reduced youto a kitten.”Vince had to laughas Lorenzo’s
greyeyes blazed.
“I amno kitten,”Lorenzo growled. “I have love; it has
made me a better man. Have youlearned nothingfromthe
divorce? Why willyounot let someone in?”
“Because I don’t want to!”Vince shouted. “Youthink I need
to feel something? WellI don’t! I’ve beenperfectlyhappy
numb.”
“It willnot bringthemback, Vince. Youmust be
happyinyour time onEarth. I worryfor you; it has become
worse since the divorce.”
“What has?”Vince asked.
Lorenzo dragged a hand throughhis hair. “Youare
volunteeringfor more and more missions. What about Nikolai?
Youwishto leave himwithout a father?”
Vince raised himselfto his fullheight, gettinginLorenzo’s
face. “Don’t youever questionmyparentingability. I love
Nikolai, and I would never do anythingto hurt him.”
“Youlove your son, yes, but your anger fuels you, Vince.
Not your son. How do youever expect to love himthe wayyou
should whenyoucannot openyour heart?”
 “Myheart is opento mysonand only him. I can’t go
throughthat again, loving someone, havingthembe injured, or
God forbid, die,”Vince ranhis hands over the day’s
growthofbeard currentlymakinghis face itch. “Besides, I don’t
evenknow ifI remember how.”
“Youdo not think it canhappento Nikolai? He is a Markov,
sonofAndrei Panchenko; he is a target at alltimes.”
“Whichis whyI trained him. He knows everythingI know.”
“Thendo the same withwhomever youfallinlove. I worryfor
you,”Lorenzo furrowed his brows. “Youare becomingmore
and more like your old self.”
“I liked him.”Vince grinned, devilishly.
Lorenzo sighed infrustration. “I only saythis to youbecause I
care. Youknow I do.”
“Youonlysaythis to me because no one else will.”Vince
narrowed his eyes. “Who put youup to this?”
“Where should I start?”Lorenzo laughed.
“I should have known,”Vince groaned. “Chickenshits.”
“Theycare for you, allofthem. They have seenwhat I do, and
are worried.”
“Well, don’t worryso much, reptile,” Vince chuckled,
leadingLorenzo towards the villa.
“Youare not amusing, Vince.”
“I’ma laughriot,”Vince laughed. He looked up to see his
housekeeper peekingout the door.
“Yes, Christine?”
“Willyouand Mr. Costa need anything, Mr. Markov?”
Vince frowned.
“How manytimes have I told youto callme Vince?”
Christine tilted her head inthought. “More thanfive?”
“Veryfunny. No, we are fine. Thank youfor asking,”Vince
winked, as Christine went back into the villa. He felt
Lorenzo’s eyes onhim.
“What?”
“A housekeeper?”Lorenzo raised a brow.
“She does a wonderfuljob.”Vince shrugged his shoulders.
“Besides, I had to hire her; her last name is Amalfitano.”
Lorenzo laughed. “I guess youwould have to, seeingas youlive
onthe Amalfi coast.”
“See? Youget it.”
~~
Keeganpulled into The Lion’s Denat sevenat night. The
sunwas stillup, makingit unbearablyhot as always.
He locked the door onhis beat-up Honda and made his
wayinto the bar. The Lion’s Denwas the bar where most law
enforcement officers and firefighters came after a longshift,
whichwould explainthe outrageous number ofwomeninit.
Keegan snickered; the name sounded like a male strip club.
Lookingaround the crowded bar for his partner, Devin, he
moved throughthe crowd gettinglooks froma lot ofthe women
and some ofthe men. He hadn’t had time to change and his suit
probablyscreamed Gman. Not that the badge hadn’t
gottenhimtail before, it was like a siren’s callto the women.
Too bad he wasn’t into women.
He spotted Devinat the back ina booth. Snaggingone ofthe
cute waiters, he ordered two beers and continued his wayto the
back. Slidinginto the leather-covered booth, Keeganput his
elbows onthe table, regardinghis partner.
“Out withit.”
Devinsat back, armpropped onthe high-backed seat.
“Youknow how I feel about this.”
“I do,”Keegannodded. The beers arrived and Keeganpaid
the waiter, givinghim a grin. “Thanks.”
“No, thank you,”the waiter smiled, movingoff.
Devinsighed loudly. “What is it with youand younger men?”
“HellifI know,”Keegangiggled, sippinghis beer.
“I know what yousaid. We want these guys to work withus.
And to bringinall ofthem, we need to bringinone influential
one. But whyonEarthdoes it have to be Vince Markov?
Youknow what that manis like, we bothdo. He’s fuckingcrazy,
Keegan, the worst kind.”
Keeganshook his head. “No, he’s mellowed since Nikolaiwas
born, youknow that.”
“Yeah? Thenwhat’s he beendoing since the divorce, Keegan?
Killing, that’s what, and inmore - how should I put this artistic
ways?”
Keeganslowlypulled the labeloffhis beer, deep inthought.
“He’s just actingout; youknow this, Dev. The divorce was
kinda hard onhim.”
“Well, yousure celebrated,”Devin chuckled at the
scowlonKeegan’s face. “Come on, you’ve had a
crushonhimforever. How the helldo youexpect to stay
professionalaround him?”
“I just will. Youknow me. Whenit comes to the job, I do
it,”Keegansaid.
Devinsat back inthought. Well, that muchwas true. Whenhe’d
first beenasked to partner withKeegan, he’d beenagainst it
because Keeganhad beenpsychologically damaged byDario
Nardozzi. After meeting withKeeganprivately, he thought
differently.
Yes, the manstuttered. And, yes, he got nervous boners, but he
was professional. Devinsipped his beer, smilingat Keegan.
EventhoughKeeganwas younger thanhim– 34 – theyhad a lot
incommonand had gotten alongfromthe start. Keegan’s
beinggay didn’t bother hima damnbit, as he himself was
bisexual. Whichwas probablyanother reasonPruitt had paired
them.
Devindidn’t take shit fromanyone, and he reallydidn’t like it
whenthe rest ofthe guys gave Keeganshit. He was just so
damned…sweet. Oh, he supposed ifhe was into the
“pretty”boys he’d take a shot at Keegan. But Devinliked
themtough, and taller. Keeganwas aninchshorter thanhim, but
his face is what attracted menand women to him. He had
perfect cupid bow lips; his eyes were a green-greywithjust a
hint of honeygold; he had a square jaw witha long nose. He
had beautifulskinand high cheekbones. He was just - well,
pretty.
“Dev? Did youhear a word I just said?”Keeganasked.
“Huh?”Devinshook his head clear.
“I said what about you? Youwant AndreiPanchenko.”
“That’s different; I want himbehind bars.”Devinpointed at
Keeganwithhis beer bottle.
Keeganchuckled. “Yeahright, I’ve seenhow youlook at his
pictures. Don’t sit there and act like he’s not smokin’ hot.”
“He’s the head ofthe Russianmob, Keegan,”Devinsaid.
“Yeah, and he’s sixfeet oflean muscle, just how youlike your
men,”Keegan winked. “Don’t tellme those slate greyeyes
don’t give youwood.”
Devinranhis hands over his face with a frustrated sigh. “We
aren’t talkingabout me, we’re talkingabout you. You’ve
beenonthis case longer thanme. You’ve watched Vince for
over tenyears, your entire career and the whole second
halfofhis. Hellyouknow his favorite food.”
“Garlic chickenwithteriyakisauce,” Keegangrinned.
“See? I don’t get that,”Devinsaid.
“What? Soyis too salty—”
“Not that, numb nuts.”Devinkicked Keeganunder the table.
“How do youexpect to remainprofessionalwiththis guywhenall
youwant to do is fuck himthrougha bed?”
Keegansnickered, coveringhis face. “Like I could.”
“So not the point,”Devinsighed. “What ifhe makes you?
Thenwhat?”
“I don’t think he’d killme—”Keegan scowled as Devinarched
a brow. “He won’t, I just know it.”
Devinleaned over the table. “What if he wants somethingelse
fromyou?”
Keeganknew his cheeks were coloring. “ThenI’llhave to
sayno.”
“Oh, and Vince Markovloves the word no,”Devinsnickered.
Keeganneeded to change the subject, and fast. As muchas he
loved workingwith Devin, theyjust didn’t see eye to eye
whenit came to Vince Markov.
“So, ifI pullthis off, Panchenko is off the market. Youcan’t
touchhim,”Keegan said, “because he’llbe workingwithus.”
Devinnodded, sittingforward and restinghis elbows onthe
table. “So I’mtold. I guess the bigwigs don’t consider
himworth bringingin.”
“And youdo? Come on, Panchenko has beenlegitimate for
years, and the only reasonhe wasn’t before was because he
was cleaningup Borkosky’s mess.”
“Yeah, right after he killed himto take his place.”Devinpointed
at Keegan. “See the point I’mtryingto make?”
“Well, killingthe old head ofthe Russianmob made wayfor
himto take over and make it legitimate. Besides, theywanted a
better life for Nikolai. The kid alreadyhas the deck stacked
against him.”
Devinlaughed, drinkingwhat was left ofhis beer. “He’s a terror
inhis ownright.”
“And he has everyreasonto be,” Keegansaid. “Youread the
report; they tortured him.”
“And he killed themall, didn’t he? Guess it was fitting.”
“There’s mypartner!”Keegan giggled, signalingthe waiter
again.
Devintook Keegan’s hand, running his thumb over his fingers.
“I don’t want anythinglike that to happenagain.”
Keeganswallowed the lump inhis throat. “It won’t. I know
him, Devin. I know youthink he’s robotic and unfeeling, but
I’ve seenhimwithNikolai.”
“Ifanything, and I meananything, happens to youbecause
ofthat… prick, I swear Keegan, I’llput himdown.”
Keegansqueezed Devin’s hand. “I know allofyouare worried
and I get it. But youaren’t the onlyone witha marksmanship
badge, Dev.”
“I’mafraid you’llbe too busyfucking Vince to shoot
him.”Devinleaned his head back, lettinga loud
throatylaughescape.
“Fromyour lips to God’s ears,” Keegangiggled.
~~
Damonsat at his desk lookingover the file onDario
Nardozzi. It was like reading a horror story, except it was real.
The man was a notorious child killer and had evaded the law
at everyturn. His younger brother, Carlos, was just as bad.
Damonflipped throughthe pictures. Theymade himsick.
Whenthe idea to take Nardozzidownhad first come up, he’d
considered Marco for the job. Now as he sat back lookingat
the man’s photos, he knew Vince was the obvious choice.
Vince had killed more Nardozzioperatives thananyone else.
Damonthought about Vince and smiled. The manhad come
a longwayfrom the fifteen-year-old boyhe’d met inRussia.
He’d seenVince grow into a manand inthat time he’d
seenVince go throughmany changes.
 As he grew up and perfected his deadlyskills, Vince
became despondent and thenparanoid as other assassins tried
to take his place, vyingfor the spot of“top assassin.” His life
was constantlyindanger as those who sought to remove
himcame at himat every turn. After manyyears, it beganto take
its toll.
Damonhad protected himas often and as muchas possible,
but Vince’s nature fromthe verybeginningwas to killor be
killed. Vince was the best assassinhe had – he showed no
mercy, no fear and he felt no pain. Sadly, his lack offeelinghad
played a large part inhis divorce. Vince did not know how to
love withhis whole heart. He’d softened with his marriage to
Andreiand at the birthofhis son, at least a little. He now
allowed people to touchhim. The loud knock onhis door pulled
Damonout ofhis thoughts.
“Come in.”

Vince sauntered into the roomand sat onthe edge ofthe desk.
“Okay, so tellme where mywonderfulvacationis takingme.”
“Rio De Janeiro.”Damonpulled one ofthe files out and
handed it to Vince. “My informant has seenNardozzithere.”
Vince looked throughthe file and then looked up at
Damon. “Youwant me to bring himin?”
Damonshook his head. “No. He has to die. There is no
waythat mancancontinue breathing.”
Vince nodded.
“Okay.”He looked at his itinerary. “The Copacabana? Kinda
ritzy, eh?”Vince waggled his eyebrows.
Damonchuckled. “I thought youmight like some pampering.”
Vince frowned. “Is this about the divorce again?”He sighed
loudly. “I’mfine. I wisheveryone would stop treatingme like
I’m a bomb about to go off.”
Damonstood up and made his way around the desk.
“I amworried about you, Vincent. I amafraid youwillnever
openyour heart to anyone.”
“Oh, myGod! What is it withyou guys? Yousound like
Lorenzo! I love Nikolai, more thanmylife.”
“That is different; he is your son. You have closed offa part
ofyourself, whether you know it or not. That is whyyour
marriage failed. I know youlove Andrei, but I do not think
youcanever be in love. Youwillnever allow yourselfto care so
muchfor someone.” Damonput his hand up, whenVince’s
mouth opened. “Nikolaidoes not count.”
Vince sighed infrustration. “Maybe I’mokaywiththat.”
“Youmaynot always be okaywith that. Don’t youwant
someone inyour life? The one personyoucannot wait to wake
up to? The one who occupies your thoughts everymoment
ofeveryday?”
Vince crossed his arms over his chest. “That sounds too
mushyfor me. Besides, how would I ever get anythingdone
ifI’malways thinkingofsomeone?”
Damonlaughed and hugged Vince. “Oh, Vince. I hope
somedayyoufind the one who makes your heart pound like
wild horses.”
Vince wrinkled his nose. “Youare too mushy- maybe youneed
someone?”
Damonwalked back behind the desk. “I had someone, she left
me. Now I onlyhave Stefano.”
“Your sondoesn’t count.”Vince flipped throughthe file.
“Besides, how would I evenknow ifI was inlove? I thought I
was in love withAndreiand look how that turned out.”
“Youwillknow, Vince. Whenlove comes, it comes witha
vengeance,”Damon chuckled softly.
“How did youknow?”
Damonsat back, thinkingabout it. “I just knew, withCara, that I
would die for her, protect her above anythingand anyone. I
could not breathe whenwe were apart. When she left, a piece
ofme went withher,”Damon sighed, sadly.
“That’s what I don’t want.”Vince grabbed the file and
paperwork. “Maybe you willfind love again, Damon. I’llkeep
in touch.”
Damonsat back as Vince left the office. Marco came
inwithAntonio and they bothsat downinfront ofthe desk.
“I want youtwo pullingback-up.” Damonhanded Marco and
Antonio their plane tickets. “Youwillflycommercial; stayas far
awayfromVince as youcan. Youknow he cantellwhenhe’s
beingfollowed.”
“We taught himwell.”Marco stood, lookingover at Antonio.
“He surpassed us both.”
“Yes, he did.”Damonarched a brow. “So watchyour asses.”
“Allright.”
Damonfrowned. “Allright, what?” Marco chuckled. “Allright,
Damon.”
~~
Phoenixwas blazingat nine inthe morning. Keeganturned
the air conditioning up higher tryingto cooloff. He’d beenback
fromD.C. for over a week now, and the change intemperature
was killinghim. He pulled into the FBI parkinglot and noticed
four familiar cars. He sighed infrustration.
“I should have known.”
Lockinghis car, Keeganmade his wayinto the air-
conditioned building. George greeted himwitha wide smile as
he passed throughsecurity.
“SpecialAgent Ripley.”George winked, takingKeegan’s
gunfromhim.
“George, how are you?”Keegan asked.
“I was good untilEsposito passed throughhere earlier,”George
chuckled, handingKeeganhis gunafter he passed throughthe
metaldetector.
“Ah. He didn’t give up his weapon again?”Keeganlaughed,
puttinghis gunback inits holster.
“Nope. But as always, Montgomery kept himinline. Youhave a
good day, Agent Ripley.”
“Youtoo, George.”Keeganwalked to the elevator and pulled
out his securitycard. Lookingaround the lobby, he remembered
the daytheyhad transported Riley, now Mateo Esposito’s
husband, to the safe house; or had attempted to. Keeganand
Devinhad been ambushed inthe street and Rileyhad been
taken. Keeganshook his head clear and boarded the elevator as
the doors opened.
Steppingout onthe third floor he could alreadyhear voices
downthe hallway. As he neared James Pruitt’s door he could
hear the teaminside talking. Joshwas coming throughthe
loudest, ofcourse. Keegan knocked onthe door and stepped in.
Talk stopped abruptly.
“Come onguys, what are youdoing here?”Keegansighed
infrustration. “Don’t youhave anyfaithinme?”Keeganlooked at
Mateo, Sam, Troyand Josh. Theywere all wellover sixfeet
talland at his five foot nine he felt verytiny.
Joshstepped forward, presenting Keeganwitha box. “The guys
and I had this made for you.”
Keegantook the box, lookingat James. “What is this?”
“Well, ifyouopenit, you’llfind out.” James sat onthe edge ofthe
desk.
The door to the office opened again and GeneralDerek Jacobs
walked in. He looked around the roomand his eyes fellon
Keegan. “Good, I didn’t miss you.”
“Nope,”Keegangrinned. “I’mjust gettingreadyto leave,
though.”Keegan opened the box. Nestled inthe cottonwas a
bracelet withhis name engraved onit. Keegan looked up at the
guys, smiling. “What’s this?”
“A trackingbracelet.”Mateo crossed his arms. “And don’t
argue.”
Troystepped forward, puttinghis arm around Keegan’s
shoulders. “Look, we just want to know you’re safe okay?
You’re the one who told me Vince Markovwas more
dangerous thanwe were. How did youexpect us to react?”
Keeganlooked at alloftheir faces. Eventhoughtheyteased
him, he knew they cared. They’d stuck up for himmore than
once, invited himto their parties, weddings and movie nights.
“I appreciate this guys, I know you’re not comfortable
withthis.”
Mateo snorted. “That’s an
understatement.”Mateo narrowed his eyes at Keegan. “I had to
tie Rileyup; he wanted to come withMark, Sawyer and Dakota.
But we knew you’d be here for hours ifwe had let themcome.
And whether I like it or not, you have a job to do.”
“Yep,”Samnodded. “I’mcut offfor at least a week and I got
‘the pout,’ which means I have a lot ofbeggingto do.”
Keegansmiled, lookingat the guys. “I love your husbands!
Youguys? Eh…”
James took Keeganbythe shoulders. “Ifanythingand I
meananything feels off, bail. Yougot it? I don’t want youtaking
chances withyour life for this; youare more important,
Keegan.”
Keeganfelt tears inhis eyes; he hadn’t felt like this since his
old partner had stuck up for him. “Stop it, guys.”
“Hey,”Joshhugged Keegan. “We love youman, youknow
that.”Joshlooked downat Keegan’s ass. “Hey! Yougot a cute,
juicy, bubble butt.”
“Josh!”Keeganpushed Joshaway, laughing.
Samsighed, leaningagainst the wall. “It never fails,
Joshmanages to take something serious and make it funny.”
“Well, this is veryserious.”Derek took the bracelet
fromKeeganand snapped it onhis wrist. “Ifanythinggoes down,
we can find youwiththis.”Derek looked into
Keegan’s face; the green-greyeyes looked back. “Be careful. I
meanit, Ripley.”
“Yes, be careful. And ifVince Markovlays a finger onyouI
swear to God I’lltake himout,”Mateo growled.
“Callthe emergencynumber ifyouget introuble. It’s a direct
line to me and it’s alreadyinyour phone.”James hugged
Keegan. “Are yousure youwant to do this?”
Keegannodded. “I cando this.” James handed Keeganhis
papers. “Here’s your passport and your ticket. I’ve booked
youat the Copacabana.”
Troywhistled. “Nice, hit the spa.”
“I’mgoingto be working,”Keegan sighed, lookingat Josh, Troy,
Samand Mateo. “Okay, get it over with.”Keegan laughed as
the guys hugged him. He stepped away,
pullinghimselftogether. “I’llsee you guys soon, with Vince
Markov.”
“Go get him, Tiger!”Joshgrowled.
“Oh, Lord.”Keeganrolled his eyes. “Bye, guys!”
The door shut behind Keeganand James made his wayaround
the desk. He became aware that alleyes were onhimat that
moment. He looked up, meetingthe team’s glare.
“Ohfor fuck’s sake guys, he’s a grownman!”James balked.
“He’s… Keegan.”Joshlooked at Mateo. “Youknow what I
mean.”
Mateo nodded. “We love the little guy.”
“He’s not little; he’s just ina roomfull of- well, youguys.
I’maninchtaller thanhim! Have some faithinhim; he’s
professionalto the core. And we have beentraininghimhard for
months just for this assignment.”
“I don’t want himhurt, James.”Josh crossed his arms. “Ifhe
needs back-up —”
“Thenwe willgo in, but not before.” James slumped into his
chair.
“Well, we hope youunderstand why allofus are
stayingintownuntilthis is over,” Troysaid.
“I swear, ifMarkovtouches a hair on his head…”Mateo
walked to the door. “I’ll put himdown, James.”
“Get inline,”James sighed.
~~
Keeganrinsed his hair and turned the water off.
Steppingout ofthe shower, he caught his reflectioninthe mirror.
Black hair and green-greyeyes looked back at him. He’d
bulked up quite a bit, but not too much. Vince liked his
menpretty, withnot too much muscle.
After years ofwatchingand listening, he was
finallygettinganassignment:reelingin Vince Markov. It was
anhonor, really. He’d beenbehind his desk for over sixyears
and now had a chance to get out and use his knowledge. He
knew whythey’d kept himat the office; he’d
beenthroughhellwhenhe’d beenkidnapped and tortured to
withinaninch ofhis life. He’d had countless hours oftherapy
and surgeries to repair the damage done not onlyto his skin,
but his nerves as well.
Keeganturned to look at his back. Scars fromcigar burns
ranacross the top of his buttocks. No amount ofplastic
surgeryhad gottenrid ofallthe evidence. Keegantook a deep
breathand closed his eyes. He repeated his mantra over and
over inhis head. I can do this.
Lookingat the time, he realized he was late to visit his
mother. Keira Ripleycould be vicious whenshe wanted to be
and very protective. He hadn’t told her where he was goingand
she knew better thanto ask. As the wife ofanFBI agent, his
mother had known not to ask too manyquestions. Whenhis
father had gottensick, Keeganhad worked overtime tryingto
paythe medicalbills.
Sadly, KeiranRipleydied ofprostate cancer
whenKeeganwas just graduatingfrom the academy. Right after
that he’d come out to his mom, who smiled and said she’d
known. Ofcourse, he’d never brought a girlhome; Spence had
beenthe onlyone who had knownhe was gayfromdayone.
Trevor Spence, his best friend and partner since the
academy. Keeganclosed his eyes and sighed. He’d beenforced
to watch as theykilled Spence right infront ofhim. They’d
talked about what would happenif either one ofthemwas
captured, but it didn’t help knowingthat ifhe’d just opened his
mouth… Keeganshook his head clear. It wouldn’t have helped;
not onlywould they have killed Spence anyway, he’d be dead
as well.
Keeganmade his wayinto his room and grabbed his
clothing. The picture ofhim and Spence was onthe wallright
above his dresser.
“You’d be laughingyour ass offright now, Spence. Theyare
sendingme after my crush.”Keegansmiled and took the picture
down. “I miss you, man.”
Keeganput the picture back and sat onthe bed.
Lookingaround his room, he lie back onthe bed and stared at
the ceiling. Growingup KeeganRipleyhadn’t beeneasy. For
starters, he had stuttered whenhe was younger. Badly. He’d
learned to controlit over the years but whenhe was nervous it
came out witha vengeance. Whichbrought up another one
ofhis … quirks:Whenever he got nervous or scared he got a
boner. It really hadn’t helped inschool. At all. Despite allthat,
he had managed to finishcollege injust a few years and started
onhis FBI career at a younger age thanmost future agents. The
academyhad beenrough, but Spence had befriended himright
away. Quirks and all. His ringingcellphone brought himout
ofhis thoughts and he looked at the caller ID witha smile.
“Mom, I’mjust gettingdressed.”
 “Well, hurryup. Lunchis getting cold.”
“Yousound stuffy, Mom, what’s goingon? Did youtake your
medication?”
“The insurance companywon’t cover it anymore, says it’s
experimental.”Keira sighed infrustration.
“Goddammit!”Keeganrana hand throughhis hair. “I’llfigure
somethingout Mom, I promise.”
“Keegan, youare not supposed to be takingcare ofme.”
“Tough. Did the super fixthe air?”
“No.”Keira checked the thermostat. “I think it’s cooler
outside.”
“Allright, I’llbe there soon, okay? Put some ice onyour head.”
“What do youthink I’mdoing?” ~~
Keeganparked his car inthe parking garage and made his
wayup to his mom’s unit. The apartment buildingwas
fallingapart, and as manytimes as he told his mother to move
inwithhim, she’d refused. He stopped at the super’s door and
knocked. He heard the TV oninthe background.
“I know you’re inthere, Mr. Williams. The air is
offagaininthe building.”Keegan listened for footsteps and
heard silence. Dammit, the manwas always avoidinghim. He
growled infrustrationand took the last flight of stairs to his
mom’s unit. Keeganunlocked the door and
immediatelybeganto sweat.
“Okay, that’s it. While I’mgone you are stayingat myplace,
Mom. This is ridiculous!”
Keira poked her head out fromthe kitchen. “Come on, I got
the freezer openin here.”
“Mom, Jesus.”Keegansighed and sat downat the table.
“I’mserious, Mom. While I’mgone youare stayingat myplace.”
Keira sat downand took her son’s face inher hands.
“Youare so sweet, Keegan.”Keira looked at her son’s beautiful
face. “Whydon’t youhave a man, honey?”
Keeganblushed, lookingdownat his plate. “Mom…”
“Ohcome on! Youare beautiful, Keegan.”
“I’mscarred, Mom,”Keegan whispered.
“Whenthe right mancomes along, he won’t care. Youare
beautifulinside and out. Look at the kind ofmanyouare.
Youtook care ofyour dad’s medicalbills, and now you take care
ofmine. Youare a good man, KeeganRipley.”
Keegansat back and sighed. “I stutter, I get spontaneous
boners and I’m scarred for life, Mom. Oooh, what a catchI
am!”Keegansaid, sippinghis water.
Keira smacked her son’s head. “Stop that! The boner
thingcould be good.”
Keeganspit out his water. “Mom!”
“Well? It’s true.”
Theysat and ate lunch, his mother talkingofher stuck-up friend
who lived ina richneighborhood. Ofcourse her friend had
married for money, not for love. Keeganknew his parents
loved eachother; youonlyhad to see themtogether. It had
beenhard whenhis father died. The medicalbills piled up and
he’d tried to take care ofeverything. Now his mother was sick.
He couldn’t lose her, too. Whenthis assignment came along,
Keegan jumped onit. The moneyhe’d make would cover
themfor a long time. He was startled out ofhis thoughts byhis
mother.
“I saw this youngmanat the super store the other day… he
might be the one for you.”
“Oh, Lord, I need to get going,” Keegansmiled, rollinghis
eyes. “Go to my apartment! Got it?”
“Yes, sir!”Keira smiled and hugged her son. “I don’t know
where you’re goingor what you’re doing, but please be safe,
Keegan. Youare allI have left inthis world.”
The urge to tellhis mother where he was goingwas strong.
Keeganclosed his eyes and lied. “It’s nothingdangerous, Mom.
I’llbe home before youknow it.”
“I love you, Keegan. Be safe.”
“I will.”
~~
Keeganlooked over the file onVince Markovonthe flight to
Rio. He knew everythingthere was to know, but it never hurt to
double check. Vince Markov, fortythree, sixfoot two, two
hundred thirtypounds of solid muscle. One child,
NikolaiMarkov. Married to AndreiPanchenko for twenty-one
years, divorced a year and a halfago. Keegan flipped
throughthe pages. He remembered the exact dayhe’d found out
Vince was married. He’d gone to a bar withSpence and gotten
drunk offhis ass. He’d also gone home witha seventeen-year-
old, whomhe’d thought was twenty-one. He’d turned
himselfinright away. Thankfully, the kid had done it before
and the parents hadn’t pressed charges. He had learned his
lesson, though, and hadn’t gotten that drunk again.
Keegansighed, sittingback and recliningthe seat. His life
was boring. The most excitement he’d had was throughhis
friends. Keegansmiled at the thought of Mateo, Josh, Samand
Troy. The guys had givenhimshit over the years, but he knew
it was allinfun. They’d hurt anyone who messed withhim.
He’d witnessed that more thanonce,
withJoshMontgomerybeingthe most vocal. He’d met the
husbands, which had beena laughriot. Mark Montgomerywas
absolutelyenchanting; no wonder Joshhad caved so fast. And
Riley? OhLord, the guy was so sweet and cute he gave
youcavities. Dakota and Sawyer were a little different,
bothbeautiful, but theyseemed a bit more… masculine.
Keegangiggled and thenlooked around to make sure no
one had heard him. He hid his face inthe folder, lookingat the
eight bytenglossyofVince Markov. The man could have beena
modelhad he not turned into a monster at seventeen. That had
all changed at about the age ofnineteen; Vince didn’t stop
killingpeople, he just focused on killingbad men.
DamonSantorno had taken care ofVince fromthe age offifteen.
Training the teenager, he made himinto anefficient
killingmachine. Vince had alreadybeen trained byhis father up
to that point. Taught to turnpainoff, Vince was the perfect
assassin. No pain, no mercy, nothing. Keeganlooked up as the
fastenseat belt signcame on. He lie back inthe seat and closed
his eyes. I can do this….
Chapter Two
Vince sighed infrustration. The club was packed to the
damnrafters and he was bored offhis ass. No one was
catchinghis eye tonight. Sippinghis beer, his eyes travelled the
crowded club lookingfor just the right guyto fuck. He wasn’t
inthe mood for a woman tonight; infact he hadn’t beenwitha
womanin over twentyyears.
Half-dressed menshakingtheir asses lined the floor and
walls and Vince leaned back inhis chair eyeingthem. It was no
use; his dick wasn’t risingto the occasionfor any ofthem. He
finished his beer and made his wayover to the bar,
passingthrougha sea of people onhis way. At forty-three he
still looked thirty, whichalways worked inhis favor.
Halfwaythroughthe fleshparade, his eyes fellonone manat
the bar. Vince swore his mouthwas hangingopen. How could
he have missed this fine morselofman? The guy was
leaningagainst the bar, wearingtight Levi’s withanequallytight
black V-neck shirt. Vince’s eyes roamed over the man’s body;
he was built, but not too big. And his face Vince had to take
another look. MyGod, the manwas breathtaking. Vince felt
movement in his pants the closer he got.
He made his wayto the bar and leaned over, lookingat the
bartender and wavinghis emptybeer bottle. The cologne the
manwas wearingcaught his attentionright away; it smelled
fantastic. A sideways glance gave hima perfect profile
shot:strongjaw, beautiful, plump, juicylips and high
cheekbones. The man’s skinwas flawless and it looked so soft.
Damn, he wanted to touchit. The bartender came back withhis
beer and Vince pulled his classic move. He leaned over to grab
it, allwhile rubbingagainst the man next to him.
“Oh, excuse me.”Vince moved over a bit.
“No problem.”
Vince contained the gasp that was risingas the man’s eyes
fellonhis. Jesus. The club lights passed over the man’s face
and Vince got a good look. Green-greyeyes were lookingat
him. The man’s black hair was styled, gelled for sure,
spikingup slightlyinthe front. Vince put his hand out.
“I’mVince.”
Keeganlooked at the offered hand, thenback at the dance floor.
“Keegan, I’m not interested.”
Vince almost fellover fromthe shock. “Excuse me?”
Keeganturned to face Vince head on. “I said I’mnot interested.
Now, ifyou’ll excuse me.”
Vince watched as the man, Keegan, left. To sayhe was
surprised was an
understatement. Inallhis years he’d never heard anyone
say“I’mnot interested.”
It took hima few seconds to come out ofhis shocked state, and
thenhe ranafter the man. He could see the black hair moving
throughthe crowd, but the club was so damn packed he
couldn’t get to him.
Bythe time Vince made it outside the club, Keeganwas gone.
Vince cursed, looking bothways downthe busystreet. Hailinga
cab, Vince directed the driver to take him back to the
Copacabana Hotel. Watchingthe lights ofRio go by, Vince
thought about what had just happened. Was he losingit? Was
his age finallyshowing? Vince shook his head clear. Hellno,
menand womenstillchecked himout ona dailybasis. What the
hellwas goingon?
As soonas he got to his roomhe called Andrei. The phone
ranga few times before his ex-husband’s voice came over the
line.
“Vince, what is wrong?”Andreisat up inbed.
“I’mstillsexy, right? Youstillfind me attractive?”
Andreisighed and lie back inbed. “What is this about, Vince?”
“I was at Cine Ideal and I hit ona guy.”Vince closed his eyes
and blurted it out. “He said he wasn’t interested.”
Andreisat up inbed again. “What?”
“That’s what I said!”Vince blew out a sighoffrustration. “AmI
losingit?”
Andreichuckled softly. “No Vince, youare as sexyas youhave
ever been, even more so withage.”Andreirana hand through
his hair. “Was he blinded bythe club lights?”
Vince chuckled. “That’s sweet, babe, but no.”
Andreibit his lip inconcentration. “Youshould go back to the
club tomorrow; perhaps he was havinga bad night?”
“I don’t think so, but I amgoing back.”Vince sat downonthe
bed and looked around the hotelroom. “Yousure I stillgot it?”
Andreismiled into the phone. “Vince, youare one hellofa
gorgeous man. Youare used to beingpursued; for once a manis
makingyoupursue him.”
“I don’t chase men, or womenfor that matter. Youthink that’s
what this is about? He figured me out, just bylookingat me?”
“I would think so. Youare one gorgeous man, Vince Markov.”
Vince lie back onthe bed, and stared at the ceiling. “Youhave
to saythat, you’re myex.”
“No, I don’t have to saythat because I’myour ex. It is the
truthnonetheless.” “Thanks, Andrei.”
“Mypleasure. Goodnight, Vince.” “Night, Andrei.”
~~
Keeganbarelymade it back to the hotel. His legs were
wobblyand his heart rate was throughthe roof. It had
takenevery ounce ofcontrolhe’d had not to take Vince
Markovonthe floor ofthe club. After years of watchingand
listening, he had knownwhat would grab Vince’s
attentionfromthe get go. The word ‘no.’ It had worked like a
charm; in fact, he almost hadn’t made it out ofthe club intime.
He was two floors up fromVince at the Copacabana and had
watched Vince come back to the hotel. The manlooked
confused as fuck, and Keeganhad to smile at that. He also felt
giddy; Vince Markovhad hit onhim.
He’d arrived right at openingtime and seated himselfat the
bar where he had a view ofeveryone enteringit. WhenVince
had come intwo hours later, he’d seenhimright away.
Youcouldn’t miss Vince Markovifyoutried.
At sixfoot two, the mancommanded attention. He could
have beena model- with thick black hair and eyes dark as
night, he oozed sex. His face was one ofbeautyand Keeganhad
always beenentranced byhim. Keeganflopped downonthe
king-sized bed and let out a loud sigh. He’d made contact, and
animpression. He would spend the next two days reelingVince
in. James Pruitt had made sure his identitywas kept secret. He
was stillKeeganRipley, but aninvestment banker, not anagent
for the FBI.
Keeganpeeled his pants offand lie back inbed. He’d
beeninches fromVince; he could stillsmellthe man’s cologne.
Keegan sighed heavilyand tried to sleep, he knew it wouldn’t
come anytime soon. His bodywas buzzing.
He looked at the trackingbracelet on his wrist and smiled.
Josh, Mateo, Samand Troyhad ordered himto wear it. As
friends go, he couldn’t ask for anybetter. It was cute how
theywere so protective. It wasn’t as ifhe couldn’t take care
ofhimself, he’d put a lot of muscle onover the last year
gettingreadyfor the assignment. Keeganlooked at the time and
forced his eyes closed. The hard part ofhis job was done, he’d
gottennoticed.
The next part was goingto be even harder. Not fallingfor Vince
Markov. ~~
Vince woke up to the damnalarm buzzingat him. He threw
it offthe table and made a mentalnote ofhow muchhe already
owed the hotel. Last night’s rejectionhad hit himhard and he’d
brokena few things. Vince sighed and dragged his ass out
ofbed.
Standinginthe shower, he closed his eyes and thought ofthe
manfromthe club. Keegan. Who the hellnamed their kid
Keegan? Vince shook his head and washed his hair. Whywas
this botheringhimso much? Because the guyhad turned
himdown, that’s why. Inallhis years, he’d never, ever, heard
the word no.
Vince stroked his cock and thought about Keegan’s body,
his face. He was hard inseconds flat, and strokinghis nine
inchdick withpurpose. He came allover the shower tiles,
alongwithsome other places. Damn. Vince dried offand called
Nikolai. This was reallybugginghim. Nikolaipicked up onthe
fourthring, and he sounded groggy.
“Hey, Pops.”
“What’s wrongwithyou?”
“Jet lagged. How are you? See
 Nardozziyet?”
“No, I have to go out todayand be seen.”Vince fellonto the bed
witha heavy sigh.
“What’s wrong, Dad. Yousound… pissed? Frustrated?
Horny?”Nikolaiasked.
Vince chuckled. “Allofthe above. I got turned downlast night
at the club.”Vince could hear noises onthe other end ofthe
phone. “Nik? What are youdoing?”
“Pullingout mygun, the zombie apocalypse is coming.”
“What?”Vince sat up onthe bed.
“The end ofthe world is at hand. My father was turned down.
This is not normal.”
Vince laughed into the phone; Nik always knew how to make
himlaugh. “Very funny. How’s Seattle?”
“So far, so good. I’mat a hotelfor now. I’llgo get Wyatt later.”
“Youneed anymoney?”
“Ha, ha, veryfunny, Pops. Between youand Dad, I have
plentyofcash. I look like a pimp, or a reallyfrustrated
hornyguygetting readyto go to a strip club.”
“Yeah? Take a picture and buya fedora.”
“Look, don’t sweat this, Dad. There’s no waythis guywasn’t
attracted to you. It’s just not possible. I meanlook at
us!”Nikolai cracked up.
“We are ruggedlyhandsome,”Vince snickered.
“We are just too damnsexy.”Nikolai looked inthe mirror,
runninghis hand through his hair.
Vince laughed and shook his head. “Allright, pimp, I have to
go be seen. Take care and callme soon.”
“Yup, watchyour back, Dad. Put Nardozzidownand soon.”
“Youbet, love you.”
“Love you, too.”
~~
Vince spent the daybeingseen. Spendingwildlyand
makingsure he was seen at everyshop and restaurant. It was
actually exhaustingand he contemplated stayinginuntil he
remembered he’d beenshot down. Bya guynamed Keegan.
Vince shook his head and smiled, he couldn’t get over the
name. How old was the guyanyway? Twenty-four at the most?
 He’d beenso preoccupied about the guy; he hadn’t realized
he’d walked right into someone onthe sidewalk.
“What the fuck?”Vince growled, lookingup. His
breathcaught inhis throat. Keeganwas scowlingat him,
withcoffee all over the front ofhis shirt.
“ You raninto me, not the other way
around.”Keeganscowled.
“Ohshit, um; let me buyyoua new shirt,”Vince said.
“Don’t bother.”Keeganwaved his hand inthe air and dropped
the now empty cup inthe trashcan. “I need to stop drinking
coffee anyway, it’s after noon.”
“I’mreallysorry.”Vince tried to smile. What the hellwas
wrongwithhim? Now he was actinglike anidiot, and since
whendid he apologize for anything? Pull yourself together
Markov. “CanI get yousomething else?”
Keeganlooked at his watch. “Nope, no time, I have a lot to do
today. Have a nice day.”
Vince watched as Keegancrossed the street. That tight ass was
swayingback and forthineventighter cargo shorts.
“Sonofa bitch!”Vince realized he hadn’t asked himanything,
well, except ifhe could get hima drink. “Great, now I’mtongue
tied, too?”Vince stood onthe sidewalk for a few more seconds,
before he realized he wasn’t moving. “Oh, for fuck’s sake!”
Vince crossed the street and stayed as far as he could behind
Keegan. He followed himfor most ofthe day. The mancould
eat. He’d onlyseenLorenzo eat that muchfood. Where the heck
did this guyput it all? His dick? Vince chuckled and shook his
head.
He followed Keeganto the gyma few hours later. Who intheir
right mind worked out inRio? Keeganworked out for anhour.
Vince was exhausted just watchinghim. Vince tailed
himuntilKeeganwalked right into the Copacabana. Vince
waited for Keeganto get onthe elevator, and thenmade his
wayto the front desk.
“That man, what roomis he in?”Vince leaned over, smilingat
the womanbehind the desk.
“We are not supposed to give out that information, sir,”she
said.
Vince ranhis fingertip over the top of her hand slowly. “Could
youbend the rules? Just this once?”He gave her his best
seductive smile. Minutes later, Vince was onthe elevator
withKeegan’s roomnumber and a keyto said room. He also had
a last name, Ripley. “Yeah, I stillgot it.”
~~
Keeganlet the hot water rushover his sore muscles.
Workingout had takena tollon himtoday. He wouldn’t have
pushed so hard, but he had anaudience. Keegangrinned, Vince
had beenwatchinghim. Keeganrinsed the shampoo fromhis
hair and washed his face. Turningthe water off, he toweled
offand looked inthe mirror. His face had hardened in sixyears;
at least it looked like it to him. Accordingto his friends, he
looked
twenty-four instead ofthirty-four.
He applied gelto his hair, spikingit as he normallydid.
Keeganwalked to the bedroomand eyed his clothes onthe bed.
Tight jeans awaited him, alongwitha blue, skintight shirt.
Joshhad made a comment about his eyes standingout whenhe
wore blue. Keeganpulled the jeans onand turned to look at his
ass inthe mirror.
“It is a juicybubble,”Keeganlaughed. He pulled his shirt
over his head, carefulnot to mess up his neatlystyled hair. One
last look in the mirror and Keegangrabbed his wallet,
exitingthe room. He would see Vince again, he knew he
would. You can do this…
~~
Vince hid around the corner as Keeganleft his room.
Damn, the manlooked edible. Vince shook his head clear; the
guy had to be blind or stupid, that’s what it was. There wasn’t
a gaymanonthe planet he couldn’t have, and Keeganwas not
goingto be the exception. Vince waited untilKeegan boarded
the elevator and thensnuck into his room. There had to be
something, maybe he was married? No ring. Vince shrugged.
Some mendidn’t wear rings. Vince went throughall the
drawers, makingsure to put things back the same wayhe found
them. He lifted the mattress and looked under the bed. He
pulled drawers out, lookingto see ifanythingwas taped to the
bottomofanyofthem. Vince was startingto get pissed. He dialed
the front desk askingifanycalls were placed fromthe room he
was inor anyincoming. Nothing. He sat on the bed,
lookingaround. There had to be something. His phone rang,
bringinghimout ofhis thoughts.
“Markov,”Vince said.
“What are youdoing?”
Vince stood up, lookingaround.
“Damon?”
“No, it is Santa Claus. Whyare you
rummagingthrougha man’s room?”Damon
asked.
Vince narrowed his eyes. “Is there a
camera inhere?”
“No, there is a Marco inthere,”
Damonchuckled.
“Dammit!”Vince sighed, flingingthe
bedroomdoor open. Marco and Antonio stood lookingat him,
bothgrinning. “What the hell, Damon? Yousent Marco and
Antonio to
watchover me?”
“Not exactly,”Damonsighed in
irritation. “Do not fight me onthis Vincent; you
are like a sonto me.”
“Fine, but Tweedle-Dee and
Tweedle-Dumstayout ofmyway!”Vince
hungup and stalked past Marco and Antonio.
The door to the suite slammed behind him. Marco looked over
at Antonio.
“Whichone are you?”
“Dee.”Antonio smiled, walking
towards the door.
“That is not amusing, Antonio.” ~~
The club was packed, as always. The music was loud and
the drinks were flowing freely. Keegansipped his beer,
watchingthe floor. He’d beenseated right where he’d been the
night before; it was onlya matter oftime before Vince made his
appearance. The music changed to a slower songand
Keeganfound himselfout onthe dance floor witha much
younger man. He sighed, closinghis eyes; he’d always
managed to attract the younger types. A hand was
slidingdownto his ass and Keeganpulled away, eyeingthe man.
“Let’s keep the hands at the waist, got it?”Keegansaid.
“I don’t speak English,”the man grinned.
“Well, I do. MayI cut in?”Vince asked.
Keeganfroze. He’d know that voice anywhere. The younger
manstepped away fromhim, eyes wide.
“Oh, no problem, Mr. Markov. I didn’t know he was
withyou,”the mansaid.
“I’mnot—”Keeganstammered.
“It’s amazinghow wellyouspeak English.”Vince raised a brow.
“Runalong now.”Vince waited, albeit without patience, as the
manleft. He turned his attentionback to Keegan.
“Wellnow, that’s muchbetter,”Vince winked,
pullingKeeganinto his chest. His hand slid to Keegan’s lower
back, tethering Keeganto him. “Youlooked like youmight need
rescuing.”
Keeganlooked up into verydark eyes. His heart was
hammeringinhis chest as Vince’s thumb caressed his lower
back. “I’m a grownman; I cantake care ofmyself.”
Vince searched green-greyeyes, Keegan’s pupils were dilated.
“Whyare you nervous?”
“I’mnot nervous.”Keegantried to step back but was pulled into
a tighter embrace.
“Yes, youare. I read people very well, Keegan. Your pulse is
racingand your pupils are blown. So I ask again, whyare you
so nervous?”Vince leaned incloser. “Is it because ofme?”
Keeganclosed his eyes, swallowing hard. Keep it together.
“Well, youwon’t let me go. I thought I made it clear I wasn’t
interested.”
Vince slid his thighbetweenKeegan’s legs. “Hmmm, your
bodysays otherwise.”
Keeganpursed his lips. Damndick was givinghimaway. “I’ma
man; ofcourse I’mgoingto get hard evenifI’mnot attracted.
Maybe I haven’t had sexina while.”Keegan realized too late
those words should have never left his lips.
Vince flashed his trademark wicked smile, leaningincloser. He
trailed his lips up Keegan’s neck to his ear. “I canhelp youout
inthat department.”
Keegan’s heart nearlyblew out ofhis chest. Vince’s voice was
like silk, wrapping around his nervous system, slidingdownhis
spine and spreadingout his toes and fingers. No amount
ofsurveillance could have prepared himfor Vince
Markovinseduction mode.
“You’re not mytype.”
Vince slid his tongue around Keegan’s outer ear before
attackingthe inner. “No one says youhave to find me attractive
to sleep withme, but I think we bothknow you’re lying.”Vince
bit the soft fleshofKeegan’s earlobe gently.
Keeganpushed Vince awayfromhim.
“That shit maywork withother people, but not withme, Vince.
I’mnot some one-night stand. I’mnot goingto be some
notchonyour damnbed or belt! Now, I’m leaving. You’ve
ruined this night for me.”
“For someone who’s not interested, youremembered
myname!”Vince called after him, snickering. He had to
laughas Keegan flipped himoff. Vince leaned against the bar
motioningthe bartender for a beer, his eyes
followingKeeganout ofthe club. Keeganwas goingto make
himwork for it. This was becominga whole other
missioninitself. He heard a short coughbehind him. “Oh,
Jesus.”
“No, it is Tweedle-Dum. I see now whyyouwere inthe room. It
is that manyou were checkingon. Do youthink he is a
Nardozzioperative?”Marco asked.
Vince opened his mouth, and thenshut it. “Whyyes, yes I
do,”Vince smirked.
“Antonio and I willtailhim.”Marco turned to leave but he felt
Vince’s grip onhis arm.
“I’ve got this, old friend. This man needs to be worked, and I
know just how to work him,”Vince winked, drawinga long
drink ofhis beer.
“I thought youwere done beinga male whore?”Marco raised a
brow.
Vince choked onhis beer. “Marco!” Vince looked around the
club and thenpulled Marco closer. “Look, I haven’t had sexin
over eight months, okay? I’mfuckingdying.”
“Whynot just take one ofthese men home?”Marco motioned to
the club fullofgay men.
Vince slumped up against the bar. “I just don’t find
anyofthemattractive enoughto bang. I know that sounds weird
—”
“Not at all,”Marco peered closer at Vince. “Youare
growingup.”
Vince threw his hands inthe air. “Can we go now?”
Vince stubbornlytook a cab back to the hotel. He was not
ridingwithDamon’s babysitters. It infuriated himthat
Damonhad sent Marco and Antonio as back-up. As ifhe
needed it. He’d beenkillingpeople with precisionhis whole
damnlife.
Vince unlocked the door to his suite and went straight for the
mini-bar. He grabbed a handfulofthe smallbottles and began
undressingas he downed them. He had one legout ofhis jeans,
whena thought occurred to him. Keeganhadn’t evenbatted
aneyelash whenthe guyhe’d cut inonhad said his full name.
Vince looked inthe mirror, downing another bottle. It was not
possible that Keeganhadn’t heard ofhim. You’d have to live
under a rock not to know who Vince Markovwas.
Vince looked at the time and picked up the phone.
Nikolaianswered onthe first ring.
“Pops?” “Where are you?”
“Space Needle. Why?”
“Grab anyone near youand ask them ifthey’d heard
ofme.”Vince waited patiently; he could hear Nikolaitalkingto
someone. It seemed like forever before Nikolaiwas back onthe
line, chuckling.
“Ohhell, I asked this old couple,” Nikolaicracked up. “I swear
her eyes went as wide as saucers. So, I figured I’d ask
somebodyyounger, ya know? Yeah, same shit. I swear
theythought I was you, cuzthat one dude ran. What’s this
allabout, Dad? Youknow the planet knows who youare.”
“Yeah? Keegandoesn’t seemto.”
Nikolaisat downona benchnearby. “How old is this guy?”
“I’mguessinglate twenties?”
“Bullshit, he knows who youare. Unless you’re a newborn,
youknow who Vince Markovis.”Nikolaifurrowed his brows.
“Who the hellnames their kid Keegan?”
“Thank you!”Vince laughed loud.
“Is he hot?”
“Fuck yes, he is. Do youthink I’d evengo to this muchtrouble,
ifI wasn’t interested?”
“What does he look like?”Nikolaisat back onthe bench.
Vince brought up a mentalimage of Keegan. “About five foot
nine? Short black hair, styled like yours—”
“I like himalready, he has style,” Nikolaichuckled.
“Anyway,”Vince blew out a sigh. “He’s got these eyes; they’re
like greyishgreenand he has beautifulskin. It looks soft, and his
lips are just…kissable.”
“Kissable?”Nikolailooked at his phone, thenput it back to his
ear. “Are you sure this is Vince Markov?”
“Nik…”Vince sighed inirritation.
“Okay, okay. Maybe youjust need to have sexwithhim? Get
himout ofyour system? I think because he said no, youare
makinghimmore thanhe is?”
“I’lltake a picture ofhimtomorrow; youcantellme what
youthink. I need a favor though; I want youto check onthis
guy.”
“Yougot a last name?”
Vince remembered allright. “It’s Ripley.”
“Like Ripley, as in‘Aliens’?”
Vince chuckled softly. “Yes, like inthe movie ‘Aliens’.”
“Okay, I’llrunit throughInteland tell youwhat I get.”
“Thanks, Nik. Have funout there; call me ifyouneed anything.”
“Get your groove on, Dad. I love you.”
“Love you.”
~~
Keegantook a cold shower. Then another one. It didn’t
help. His skinwas on fire fromVince’s touch. He hadn’t been
prepared for Vince’s seduction. Keegan looked downat his
dick.
“And you! Really? Youcouldn’t just staysoft, could
you?”Keeganbanged his head onthe shower door.
Just beinginVince’s arms had done somethingto him. He
was inserious trouble. For years he had watched the man,
listened to his conversations, tracked his everymove. One
minute inVince Markov’s arms had fucked himup.
Keeganfellonhis bed ina toweland stared at the ceiling. Just
rememberingVince’s lips onhis neck had his dick hardening.
Keegansighed; this was not goingas planned. Or was it?
Keegansat up lookingaround his room. Somethingwas off. He
looked throughallthe drawers inthe suite. He combed the
roomfromtop to bottom. Someone had beeninhis room.
Walking towards the bed again, he stopped. Right next to the
impressionofhis bodyinthe comforter was the
impressionofsomeone’s ass. Keegan chuckled.
“OhVince, are we gettingcareless in our old
age?”Keeganranhis hand over the impression. “Someone is
quite curious.” Keegansprawled back out and closed his eyes;
he had Vince right where he wanted him.
Onthe hunt.
Chapter Three
The alarmwent offand Vince threw it across the room. He
moaned and buried his face inthe pillow. For once, his head
was killinghim. He realized he hadn’t eatenmuch inthe past
two days. FollowingKeegan around was his mainpriority. The
alcoholhe’d consumed last night was onits wayback up. Vince
ranfor the bathroomand leaned over the toilet. God, he hadn’t
had a hangover in years.
After waitingfor what seemed like a lifetime, he gave up
tryingto puke and decided to shower instead. After a long, hot
shower, he emerged withnew life. Vince picked up the phone
and called roomservice; he ordered two ofeverythingand lie
back onthe bed.
KeeganRipley. The man’s eyes and voice were ingrained
inhis head. Jesus, he couldn’t concentrate onanythingelse.
What the hell? Okay, so a manhad said no to him. But it
wasn’t as ifKeeganRipleywas the kind ofguythat other guys
followed around. So he was easyonthe eyes, nice ass, smelled
good and had a cute face. Cute? Vince moaned and smacked
his head. “Now I’musingthe word ‘cute’?”
He spent most ofthe day
recuperating. Bynightfall, Vince decided to hit Le Boy, one
ofthe trendier night clubs inRio, withdark corners and rent
boys. Maybe he would find a suitable replacement for Keegan
inthere? Vince ranhis hands over his face; he needed to get
Keeganout ofhis head. He had work to do. Throwinghis jeans
on, he shoved his knife inthe back ofhis pants, thenpulled his
shirt on. Lookinginthe mirror, he turned to the side. The
outline ofthe knife could barely be seen. Perfect.
Le Boy was dark and loud. Vince made his wayto the bar
and ordered a beer. It wasn’t hair ofthe dog, but it would
suffice. Turninghis attentionto the dance floor, he eyed the
available mencheckinghimout. Too young. Too skinny. Too
ugly. Vince chuckled to himself; this was not goingto be easy.
It wasn’t as ifhe couldn’t get laid anynight of the week; his
tastes had changed. Maybe he was gettingolder. That thought
made him wince. The lightingchanged and his eyes landed
right onKeeganinthe corner. What the hell?
Vince moved towards the other side ofthe roomand that’s
whenhe noticed one of Nardozzi’s men, makinga beeline for
him. He readied himselfand moved towards the back rooms.
He hid behind one ofthe curtains and watched. Instead
ofcomingfor him,
Nardozzi’s manstopped inthe middle ofthe floor and looked
inthe other direction. Vince stayed still, watchingand waiting.
The man seemed to hesitate untilKeeganmoved toward the
front entrance. Vince watched as Nardozzi’s manwent after
Keegan instead of him.
“What the hell?”Vince followed, keepinghis eye out for
more ofNardozzi’s menas he exited the club. Froma block
behind he watched Nardozzi’s operative follow Keegan. Shit,
he’d beenjokingwhen he said Keeganmight be anoperative for
Nardozzi. Now it looked as ifit were true. Vince watched
closelyas Keeganturned the corner. He heard a
commotiondownthe street Keeganhad takenand cut throughan
alley.
~~
Keegan’s worst nightmare was comingtrue. He hadn’t
brought a gunand now he was face to face withCarlos
Nardozzi, Dario’s younger brother.
“Well, well, ifit isn’t little Keegan
Ripley, alive and well,”Carlos snarled, hauling Keeganup
to his face. “Didn’t get enoughthe first time, did you?”
“Fuck you!”Keeganspat inCarlos’ face.
“Youlittle shit!”Carlos took
Keegan’s hand, bendingthe fingers untilhe heard a snap.
Keeganhowled inpainand Carlos smiled. “Mybrother thinks
you’re dead, so let’s keep it that way. I’mgoingto snap your
neck like a fuckingtwig!”Carlos grabbed Keeganaround the
neck, and placed a hand onKeegan’s temple. “Saygoodbye —”
“Yes, saygoodbye.”Vince slid his knife into the man’s back,
puncturinghis lung and twistingthe knife the further it went in.
“Youshould have beenwatchingyour back, asshole.”
Keegangot loose, backingup into the wall. He looked at Vince
inshock. “How did youknow?”
Vince slid the knife back out, wipingit onthe dead man’s shirt.
He bent downand took the man’s head betweenhis hands. “We
were at the same club, Keegan. Mind telling me what dickhead
here wanted withyou?”
Keeganlooked awayas Vince snapped Carlos’ neck for good
measure. “I-I d-d-don’t know,”Keeganstuttered. Dammit, he
hadn’t stuttered inforever.
Vince tilted his head and flipped his phone open. He heard a
loud sighbehind him and snapped the phone shut. “WellDee
and Dum, we have a mess.”
Marco flipped the dead manover and looked up at Vince. “This
is Carlos Nardozzi.”
“No shit, huh? I thought he looked familiar.”Vince grinned.
“Guess that means bigbro’s gonna be pissed.”
Antonio spunaround, feelingeyes on his back. Two menwere at
the end ofthe alley, bothonthe phone. Antonio nodded to
Marco, takingoffdownthe opposite way. Marco randownthe
alleytowards the men. Vince pulled Keeganbythe armand
started walking.
“Start talking, Keegan,”Vince said.
Keeganlooked back at Carlos’ body. “Shouldn’t youc-c-
cleanthat up?”
“Marco and Antonio willget it.”
Vince hailed a cab, shovingKeegan inside. He instructed the
driver to take themto the Copacabana. Keeganwas lookingout
the window the whole time, holdinghis hand. Vince looked
closer; the fingers were bent at anodd angle. Once theypulled
up, Vince hauled Keeganinto the elevator. The ride was silent
allthe wayto the suite; Vince took Keeganto his roomand stood
as the man opened his suite door withshakinghands. Vince
closed the door behind them, leaning against it.
“Talk.”
Keeganwalked into the bedroom, lookingover his shoulder.
“What is it youwant me t-t-to say?”
Vince pushed offthe door and followed Keeganto the back
bedroom. “I want youto tellme whyCarlos Nardozzi wanted
youdead. Youdon’t strike me as an operative gone rogue.”
Keeganturned, guninhand. “What do I strike youas?”
Vince couldn’t help but snicker. “Really? A gun? Are
youserious?”Vince removed his shirt lookingdownat his torso.
“Youbetter have one hellofa good aim, because ifI get back up
I’mgoingto killyou.” Vince motioned to the manygunshot
scars on his body. “Now, who the fuck are you?” Vince started
walkingtoward Keegan.
“Stop r-r-right there, I s-s-swear I’ll s-s-shoot you.”
Keeganraised his gun. He knew he should be scared, God
knows any personintheir right mind would be. But he felt
secure inthe knowledge that Vince had changed somewhat.
God, he hoped he was right.
Vince smirked. “Ifyouwanted me dead, you’d have shot me
bynow.”Vince stood infront ofKeegan, the barrelofthe gun
flushwiththe middle ofhis chest. “Pullthe trigger,
Keegan.”Keegan’s hand shook and Vince took the
gunfromhimslowly. “I didn’t think so. Now, who are you?”
Keegansighed, droppinghis head.
“SpecialAgent KeeganRipleyofthe FBI.”
Vince raised a brow. “The FBI? What do youwant withme?”
“Just your help, nothingmore.” Keeganraised his head.
“Myboss wants us to have openlines ofcommunication. We
keep showingup at the same jobs.”
Vince cocked his head to the side. “Youknow TroyBishop,
don’t you?”
Keegannodded. “So now that you know who I am, what are
yougoingto do?” “Use you.”
Keegan’s head snapped up. “Excuse m-me?”
“It seems to me Carlos knew you personally; he also
mentioned that his brother wants you. Well, that’s who
I’mafter. So it would make sense to use youas bait, to reel
Nardozziin.”
Keegan’s mouthdropped. “Ohf-ffuck you! I amn-n-not
goingt-to be b-b-bait for anyone, and I willn-never be
anywhere nn-near Dario Nardozziever again!”Keegan stalked
past Vince.
Vince grabbed Keegan’s arm, hauling himback. “The
hellyouwon’t! Youwant somethingfromme and I want
somethingfrom you. So we’llwork together.”
 “No,”Keeganshook his head. “I won’t help
youbringNardozzidown; you’re onyour ownfor that one.”
“Youknow who he is, what he’s done! Don’t youwant
himto be stopped? Or are youthat bigofa coward?”
“F-f-fuck you!”Keegansnarled.
Vince chuckled, pullingKeegancloser to him. “Maybe
later, but stayontopic. Nardozziwants youand I want Nardozzi,
so youeither work withme…”Vince shrugged his shoulders.
“Or what?”Keeganlooked into
Vince’s eyes, defiantly.
“I’llforce youto.”Vince leaned in
evencloser. “I always get myway, Special
Agent Ripley.”
“Not withme youwon’t.”Keegan
pursed his lips.
Vince looked down; SpecialAgent
KeeganRipleywas sportingone hellofa
hard-on. “AmI excitingyou?”
“G-g-go t-t-to hell! God, youare such
a pretentious, narcissistic, ass—”
Vince put his hand over Keegan’s
mouth. “Now, now, name callingis not nice,”
Vince laughed, as Keegan’s muffled expletives
tried to breachhis hand. “Youreallydon’t
have a choice, Keegan. You’re obviouslyon
your ownor youwould have had back-up in
the alley. Seems youare stuck withme.”
Vince lessened the grip ofhis hand. “Are you
goingto behave?”
Keegannarrowed his eyes, nodding. Vince released his grip.
The right hook
fromKeegancaught himbysurprise. Vince’s head snapped back
fromthe hit. He grabbed
Keegan’s wrist, tightly.
“That wasn’t nice,”Vince snarled. “I didn’t
sayanything,”Keegan
sucked ina breath; he’d forgottenmost ofthe
fingers onhis right hand were broken. He bit
back a cryas Vince straightened his fingers
out.
“Stop, please,”Keeganwhispered. “Theyhave to be
straightened out.”
Vince pulled Keeganover to the desk and sat
himdown. He looked at eachfinger, carefully.
“At least three ofthemneed to be set.”Vince
looked closer at Keegan’s fingers. “What the
hellis this?”
Keeganpulled his hand back with
great effort. “D-d-don’t t-t-touchme!” Vince leaned against the
desk,
crossinghis arms. “I canknock youout.” “Pfft…good luck
withtha—” Vince caught Keeganbefore he fell
out ofthe chair. He hadn’t meant to hit himso
hard… Yeah, he had. Vince chuckled,
carefullyplacingKeeganonthe bed. He
grabbed his phone and called Damon. “We have a problem.”
“So I’ve gathered fromMarco and
Antonio. Carlos, Vince? Really? Marco is
cleaningthe mess inthe alley.”
“Hey! I had no idea that’s who it
was.”Vince looked downat Keegan’s face.
A bruise was alreadyformingonhis cheek.
Ooops. “Anyway, I’ve got anFBI agent with
me.”
Damonstood up. “Youhave a
what?”
“Agent KeeganRipley, FBI. About
five foot nine, cute little guy—”
“Dammit, Vincent! The FBI? We do
not get involved withthe FBI.”
“Wellhe involved himself; he was here
for me.”Vince looked downat Keeganonthe
bed. “AlthoughI have no idea how he made it
past the training. He’s just so…fragile
looking.”
“Do not let looks deceive you. What
does he want withyou?”
“What do allmenwant withme?”
Vince chuckled.
Damonsighed infrustration. “Vincent
…”
“Ohchill, his boss wants us to work
together.”
“Theywhat?”Damonsat back inhis
chair. “Seems we alldo the same job.
Remember whenI told youabout Troy
Bishop?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Same thing. Whoever the bigwigis
for them, he wants to work together.” Damonscrunched his
brow inthought.
“It would make sense, poolour resources and
men. Some ofthemare due a well-deserved
vacation.”
Vince sat onthe bed, mouthagape.
“Are youseriouslythinkingofworkingwith
them?”
“It makes sense, I did not come this
far inlife byplayingbythe rules. It would be
good to set up a meetingwithKeegan
Ripley’s boss.”
“About that…”
“Ohno.”Damonsighed, runninghis
hands over his face. “Please tellme youdid
not killhim.”
“No, I didn’t killhim!”Vince moved a
straystrand ofhair fromKeegan’s forehead.
“I kinda hit him, but he’s got brokenfingers
fromCarlos.”
“Marco and Antonio willbringa
doctor to you. Please do not killthe fragile
FBI agent,”Damonsaid.
“Hey! He hit me and pulled a gunon
me. I just punched himto shut himup.” “He pulled a
gunonyou?”Damon
was tryinghard not to laugh, it didn’t work. Vince smiled at the
laughter coming
throughthe phone. “I know, it was kinda
funny. He looked so damned serious.” “Take care ofhim; it
would not bode
wellifwe killthe bigwig’s agent. Antonio lost
the two menwho were inthe alley. He knows
theyare Nardozzioperatives, this willget
back to Nardozzi.”
“Good, now he’llbe hell-bent on
comingafter me.”
Damonsat back, lookingat the file on
Nardozzi. “No he won’t, he and his brother
were not close.”Damonthought about the
FBI agent. “But, I think I have anidea. Stay
bythe phone, Antonio is onhis wayright
now.”
“Yup, later Damon.”Vince hungup
the phone, puttingit onthe night stand. He ran
his fingers over Keegan’s cheekbone. The
skinwas soft; he knew it would be. Vince
trailed his fingers over Keegan’s poutylips. The manwas
beautiful. A short cough interrupted his thoughts. He realized
he’d been
staringat Keeganfor tenminutes.
“Stop feelingup the FBI agent.”
Antonio raised a brow.
Vince flipped Antonio off. “Damon
called?”
“Yes, a doctor is coming.”Antonio
walked over to the bed; he leaned over,
inspectingthe FBI Agent. “He is very…small.” “Yeah? Wellhe
packs a meanright
hook.”Vince picked up Keegan’s hand
carefully. “What do youmake ofthis?” Antonio peered downat
Keegan’s
hands. “His nails were pulled out.”
Vince nodded. “That’s what I thought.
What the fuck happened to this guy?” “We willhave the doctor
look at his hand. He willbe welltakencare of.”Antonio walked
to the door. “Trynot to hurt him
further.”
Antonio smirked, as Vince opened his
mouthinprotest. “I know, I know, he hit you
first.”
“Oh, just go away,”Vince laughed.
~~
Keeganwoke up witha mouththat felt like it was
fullofcotton. He sat straight up onthe bed; he’d beendrugged.
He tried focusingonsomethinginthe room. His eyes searched,
stoppingonVince Markovsittingat the desk. Keegansighed,
lyingback onthe bed.
“I was hopingit was alla nightmare.”
Vince cocked aneyebrow. “Which part?
“Allofit.”Keeganbrought his hand up to his face. “What did
youdo?”
“We brought a doctor in; he set your fingers.”Vince moved to
the bed. “So here’s the deal, Ripley. As a show ofgood faith,
you work withme to bringinNardozzi. Youwill be myfiancé.”
“What? Why?”Keeganstammered.
Vince sat back, eyeingthe younger agent. “Because
Nardozziwants me. Badly. If he thinks I have somethingthat’s
wortha lot to me, he’llcome at me evenharder. He’s tried,
withAndrei. Needless to say, he lost quite a few menthat day.
Youdon’t come after someone I love without knowingwhat’s
comingyour way.”
“What about Nikolai?”Keegansat up, tryingto get the glass
ofwater, just out of his reach.
Vince handed Keeganthe glass, watchinghimdownthe whole
thinginone long gulp. “I’d be careful; we had to knock youout
and sometimes—”
“OhGod,”Keeganfelt the bile rising and ranto the bathroom.
“Youget a reaction,”Vince finished. Vince followed Keeganto
the bathroom; he grabbed a washcloth, wettingit withcold
water.
“Here.”
Keeganlooked up. “I bet youthink this is hilarious.”
Vince crossed his arms over his chest.
“I have to know whyyour boss sent you. You’re not huge. I
mean, you’re as scary as a puppywitha chew toy.”
Keeganthrew the washclothat Vince.
“God, youare suchanass! No wonder Andreidivorced you!”
Vince squatted to be at Keegan’s eye level.
“I’d watchmymouthifI were you.”
“Or what? Are yougoingto punchme again?”
“Maybe, ifyoupiss me offenough. Now, we are goingout
tonight so get ready.”
Keeganstood up, eyes wide. “Are youserious? I have
brokenfingers and a black eye!”
Vince stepped closer to Keegan, invadinghis private space.
“No one willbe lookingat youanyway.”Vince eyed Keegan’s
face. “Do I need to get yousome foundation, Cover Girl?”
“Ass,”Keeganmumbled. “Younever answered myquestion.
Whynot just go after Nikolai?”
Vince raised a brow. “Have youmet Nikolai?”
“No, but I’ve seenhis pictures.”
Vince raised bothbrows.
“Oh, so inother words, like father like son.”Keegantook the
washcloththat was hangingoffofVince’s shoulder and applied it
to his eye. “Could youat least give me one night to
recuperate?”Keeganlifted his eyes to Vince’s. “Please?”
Vince sighed. Evenwitha black eye KeeganRipleywas
downright fuckable. He actuallykind offelt bad for
hittinghimnow. Damn.
“Okay, fine. One night, but don’t think that doe-eyed look
willwork a second time!” Vince huffed and stalked out ofthe
bathroom, slammingthe door shut behind him.
Keeganlooked inthe mirror, scowling at his black eye. “Doe-
eyed look?”
~~
Vince paced the livingroomofthe suite. This was a bad
idea, a verybad idea. Althoughit made sense. Nardozzihad
come after himtwice as hard while he was married to Andrei.
He had underestimated the head of the Russianmob -
Andreiwas no pushover. He wasn’t weak either; mendidn’t
cower in Andrei’s presence for no reason. When Nardozzihad
come after them, he’d sent twentymen. None ofthemhad gone
back. Well, except for one, inpieces. Andreiwas notorious for
sendingmessages.
 While Keeganwas knocked out, a planhad beenhatched
byDamonand Marco for Keeganto pose as Vince’s fiancé.
Vince sat downonthe couch. Whydid Nardozzi want
KeeganRipley? He had shownup at the tailend ofthe
conversationinthe alley, only catchingthat Nardozziwanted
Keegan. But why? Vince stood up again, pacing. What could
Keeganhave that Nardozziwanted? The more he thought about
it, the more confused he became.
Keegancame out ofthe bathroom. Vince stopped pacing,
his eyes following Keeganas he crossed the roomto the couch,
sittingdownonthe far end.
Keeganfelt eyes onhimand looked up at Vince.
“What?”Keeganpulled his legs up, wrappinghis arms around
his knees.
“How old are you?”Vince narrowed his eyes.
“Thirty-four.”
“Youlook twenty-four.”
Keeganscowled. “Youlook sixty-four.”
“Youreallywant me to hit youagain, don’t you?”Vince sat
downnext to Keegan, as close as he could get, smirking.
“There is a whole couchyouknow.” Keegantried to move
further away, to no avail. The armrest was cuttinginto his ribs.
“Canyoumove over just a tad, please?”
Vince gave Keeganhis wicked smile. “AmI botheringyou? You
never answered my question.”
“Whichwas?”Keeganhip-bumped Vince over.
“Whywere youpicked for this job?”
Keegansat back, regardingVince withwhat he hoped was his
most serious face. “Because I’meverythingyoulook for ina
man. I’msmall, but not too small, I have muscles, but I’mnot
huge. I’mpretty,” Keeganspat the last word out.
Vince gave Keegana slow once-over. “Yes, youare mytype for
sure. Since you’re myfiancé, we should go practice
havingsex.”
“Does that line work?”Keegan snorted, standingup. “Enjoythe
couch.”
“Wait a minute.”Vince stood up. He hadn’t realized how
muchshorter Keeganwas untiljust then. He looked so
damnsmall. “So, are yougoingto help me get Nardozzi?”
Keeganlooked at his hand, he knew what would
happenifNardozzigot a hold of himagain. He might not survive
it this time. The thought ofNardozzigettinga hold of
childrenagainmade his stomachturn. The man hunted
childrenlike it was a sport. It was disgusting.
Sixyears ago, he’d beenona stakeout withSpence
whentheywere taken bysurprise. Nardozzihad tortured him
relentlesslytryingto find out the whereabouts ofthe
childrenofhis enemies. He’d almost died protectingthose kids.
As it was, the year before he had takena .44 to the shoulder
protectingone ofthem.
“Just make sure he never gets his hands onme.
Okay?”Keegansaid.
Vince narrowed his eyes. “What happened?”
“Promise.”Keeganlooked up, meetingVince’s eyes.
Vince had the suddenurge to palm Keegan’s face. He stuffed
his hands inhis pockets. “Youhave myword.”
“Good enough.”Keeganbrushed past Vince to the bedroom.
“Goodnight, Vince.”
“I’mnot sleepingonthe couch.”Vince raised a brow.
“Fine, I’llput pillows downthe middle ofthe bed.”
Vince laughed loud, leaningover trying to catchhis breath.
“Pillows, how scary.”
Keeganfolded his arms across his chest. “Stayonyour side.”
Vince walked closer to Keeganand looked downat him.
“Yousure?”
Keegan’s pulse raced, thenhis dick filled. Dammit.
“Yes, I’msure.”
Vince looked downat Keegan’s erection. “Your dick says it
wants to play.”
“He’s grounded, now goodnight.”
Vince followed Keeganinto the bedroom; he stripped his shirt
off, thenwent about takinghis pants off.
“W-w-what are youd-d-doing?” Keeganaverted his eyes.
Vince threw his pants onthe chair. “Goingto bed. Do yousleep
withallyour clothes on?”Vince pulled the comforter back and
slid into the bed. “Do youneed your Teddy?”
“God, youare suchanasshole,” Keeganmuttered, unzippinghis
pants. He heard a low whistle, and looked at Vince in the bed.
“Do youmind?”
“Not at all, naked male is my favorite.”Vince sat up onhis
elbow, watching the show.
“Ugh!”Keeganpulled his pants off and climbed into the bed.
He positioned the extra pillows downthe middle betweenVince
and himself. Fluffinghis remainingpillow, he settled
incomfortably, tryingto avoid hitting his hand.
“I think we cancalldownfor a night light,”Vince snickered.
“Are youalways sucha dick?” Keeganpeered over the pillows.
Vince leaned inclose. “No, not always,”he grinned.
Keeganbacked away. “Stop that.”
“Stop what?”Vince licked his lips, eyeingKeegan’s naked
chest.
“Stop lookingat me like I’ma Happy Meal.”Keeganrolled onto
his side, tryingto get comfortable.
“I make a good blanket,”Vince whispered.
“Willyougo to sleep?!”Keegan sighed infrustration.
Vince layback staringat the ceiling; a slow chuckle rose
fromhis chest. Thenthe laughter burst free.
“What is it now?”Keeganlooked over the pillow wall.
“I don’t think I’ve ever beeninthis situation- inbed witha man,
not havingsex, witha pillow wallkeepingme fromhavingmy
way. Damndownfeathers!”Vince laughed hysterically.
Keegansank into his pillow, closing his eyes. “I’mtired, please
go to sleep.”
Vince stayed quiet untilhe heard a soft snore
comingfromKeegan’s side. He sat up and looked over the
pillows, a smile forming onhis lips. Keeganwas ina tight ball,
protectinghimself. He closed his eyes and thought about what
was coming. He knew he was puttingKeeganindanger inmore
ways thanone. He was goingto find out what Dario
Nardozziwanted withAgent KeeganRipley, no matter what it
took.
Chapter Four
Vince woke up to a rayofsunlight across his eyes. He felt
stickyand realized Keeganwas plastered to him. Theywere
both sweating, what withbeingso close to one another.
Sometime duringthe night the pillow wallhad beendiscarded,
leavingspace for Keeganto rollright into Vince’s chest. Vince
smiled downinto Keegan’s angelic face. His mouthwas
slightlyopenand a soft snore was comingout. Keeganhad
perfect lips; they were pink, too. The long, black lashes hid his
beautifuleyes. Vince’s cellphone rang, jarring himinto motion.
He grabbed it offthe night stand and crawled out ofbed
carefully. Checkingto make sure he hadn’t woken
Keegan, Vince slipped out onto the balcony. “Hello?”
“Hey, Dad, I spent allnight hacking
into allkinds ofsites. This guy, whoever he is, is no regular
Joe.”
“No, he’s FBI. Hangona sec.”Vince opened the door
quietlyand snuck back into the room. He aimed the camera at
Keegan’s sleepingface and snapped a picture. Vince went back
out onto the balcony, sendingthe picture to Nikolai. Whenhe
put the phone to his ear, Nikolaiwas stilltalkinga mile a
minute. “I said hold on!”Vince laughed softly.
“FBI?”Nikolaialmost shouted. “What the helldoes the FBI
want with—Ohh, nice picture. He is hot.”
“I told you,”Vince snickered. “Long storyshort, he’s agreed to
work withus to bringNardozzidown.”
“I almost got throughthe last firewall last night. Youwant
me to keep trying?”
Vince looked over at the bed. “Yeah, I do. There’s
somethinghe’s not tellingme.”
“Okay, I’monit.”Nikolailooked at the picture again. “Dad?”
“Yes?”
“Does he like you?”
“I’mnot sure; we got offto a rough start,”Vince chuckled.
“Welldon’t make himmadder than youalreadyhave. I’llkeep
youupdated.”
“Thanks, Nik. I love you.”
“Love youtoo, Pops.”
Vince took a longhot shower, thinking about Keeganthe whole
damntime. He almost jacked off, but wondered what would
happenifKeeganwalked inonhim. He’d alreadymade a
foolofhimselfover the guy, he wasn’t about to get caught
doingthat. He tipped his head back, lettingthe hot water soothe
his sore muscles. God, he needed to get laid. Vince opened his
eyes. Did they choose Keeganbecause he reallywasn’t affected
byhim? The thought was more thana little disturbing. The
more Keeganpushed him away, the more he wanted him. This
was a first inhis entire life, wantingsomeone who didn’t want
him.
Vince shook his head clear; he had a job to do.
BringNardozzidownno matter what. Turningthe water off,
Vince grabbed one ofthe large, fluffytowels. Openingthe door
to the outer bathroom, he stopped inhis tracks; Keeganwas
takinga piss.
“Do youalways watchother people pee?”Keeganshook his
dick, and closed the lid ofthe toilet. Turningto washhis hands,
he noticed Vince was stilllookingat him. “Well?”
“I was lookingat your dick, not your piss, ifyouwant to get
technical.”Vince sauntered over to the mirror, droppinghis
towelalongthe way. He heard a slight intake ofbreathand
looked over his shoulder. “So, it seems youare not
unaffected.”Vince raised a brow.
Keeganstalked out ofthe bathroom mumblingunder his breath.
He grabbed the phone and called roomservice. He needed a
shitload ofcoffee; he’d gottenhooked onit by James Pruitt.
Besides, Rileyhad sent hima coffeemaker for Christmas the
year before. Now he couldn’t functionwithout it. His mind
wandered back to what he’d just seen:Vince Markov, naked.
Keegansighed infrustration; his dick was hard again. Damnbut
the man had anincredible ass; youcould bounce a quarter
offofit. His arms were huge, and his chest was perfection;
sinewymuscles ranthe entire lengthofthe man’s body.
He had the most beautifulwashboard abs and the tattoos that
covered himmade him evensexier. Keeganwent out onthe
balcony and sat downonone ofthe lounge chairs. For more
thana decade he’d watched and listened to Vince Markov. He
thought he could handle beingalone withhim. He’d
beenwrong. Devin Lyons was immune to Vince; Keegansighed
heavily. He wished he was. Vince’s voice scared him.
“So, what do youwant to do today?” Vince asked.
Keeganlooked over his shoulder. “Well, at least youput some
clothes on.”
Vince sat downinthe chair opposite Keegan. He clasped his
hands together, lookingat him. “Ifwe are goingto work
together, I need youto trust me.”
“Whyshould I?”Keeganleaned forward, lookinginto Vince’s
eyes.
“Because I’ve alreadysaved your ass once.”Vince took
Keegan’s hand gently. “How does it feeltoday?”
Keegantried to take his hand back. “It’s fine. I know what I
look like, some fragile, prettylittle boy. I’mactuallytougher
thanI look.”
“I cansee that.”Vince ranhis finger over the top ofKeegan’s
nails. “Who did this to you?”
Keeganstood up. “I don’t want to talk about it.”
“I need to know what I’minfor, workingwithyou. I can’t have
youfreeze up onme ina bad situation.”
Keeganstood over Vince. “I’ve killed myshare ofmen, Vince. I
maynot be like you, goingfor the world record ofhow many
menI cankillina month. But I cantake care ofmyself; I’ve
beendoingit for a longtime.”
“Just how muchdo youknow about me?”Vince stood up,
backingKeeganinto the wall. “Let’s be honest here. Whyare
you onthis assignment, Keegan? Tellthe truththis time.”
“I did tellyouthe truth, what more do
youwant?”Keeganrealized he was boxed in. Witha wallbehind
himand Vince’s hands on either side ofhis body, he had
nowhere to go.
“Are youtryingto intimidate me?”
Vince smiled, leaningin. “Now why would I do that?”This
time, the urge to palm Keegan’s face was one he couldn’t
ignore. He swept his hand across Keegan’s cheek softly. “I
didn’t meanto hit youso hard.”
Keegan’s eyes closed as Vince’s soft caress continued across
his jaw and downhis neck. “Are youtryingto seduce
me?”Keegan whispered.
“Are youseducible?”Vince leaned in closer.
Keeganopened his eyes; Vince was inches fromhis face. “I told
you, I’mnot going to be some notchonyour belt. I know how
youoperate; you’re basicallya male whore.”
Vince backed away. “I haven’t been like that ina while.
Youshouldn’t talk about shit like that. Youhave no idea who I
am.”
“Ohyes I do, I know everythingthere is to know about you,
Vince Markov.” Keegansnapped his mouthshut. Oh shit.
Vince crossed his arms. “Oh, is that so?”
“Ofcourse, theywouldn’t send me to reelyouinwithout
tellingme what I needed to know,”Keegantried to cover his
ass.
“That’s need to know, yousaid
everything….bigdifference.”Vince looked into Keegan’s eyes.
“You’re lying.”
“What?”
“Your pupils are dilating.”Vince leaned incloser. “I think
youmight be sweating, too; whyare youlyingto me?” Vince
stepped incloser, takingKeegan’s wrist inhis hand. “Do
youfind me attractive?”
“What?”Keeganstammered. “N-nno!”
Vince smiled, runninghis thumb over the pulse inKeegan’s
wrist. “Lyingagain.”
“Let g-g-go!”Keegantried to get loose, but the sheer size and
power ofthe man left Keeganat a disadvantage.
“Youwant me to kiss you, don’t you?”Vince said,
leaningincloser.
“Dammit, this is not funny! Let me gg-go V-V-Vince!”
“God, I love it whenyoustutter my name,”Vince chuckled,
pullingKeeganinto him.
The knock onthe door ofthe suite had
thembothfreezinginplace.
“Roomservice,”Keegansaid.
Vince let go ofKeegan’s wrist. “I’ll get that.”Makinghis
wayacross the suite, Vince opened the door to see a
roomservice cart accompanied bytwo men. Vince eyed the cart
and smiled. Two bottles ofEnsure, along withoatmeal, sat
amongst eggs, baconand toast. Vince snickered. “Well, at least
he didn’t order up Depends.”Vince went to grab his wallet
whenit hit him. Since whendid two people deliver one cart?
Keegancollapsed inthe chair as Vince went to get the food.
“Holyshit,” Keeganwhispered.
The sound ofglass breakinghad him up inaninstant. He
raninto the mainroomof the suite to see Vince locked
inmortalcombat withtwo men.
“Shit!”
It was like watchinga Bruce Lee movie, Vince was
everywhere at once. Within seconds, Vince had snapped the
neck onone ofthemand shot the other withhis owngun.
Bothmenlayonthe floor and Vince looked up just then.
“We need to get out ofhere now, grab your shit. I think we
have less thana minute.”
Keeganraninto the bedroom, grabbingonlythe essentials,
namelyhis gun, phone and wallet. He ranback into the other
roomto see Vince inthe doorwaylooking downthe hall. “Come
on.”Vince put his hand out.
Keegantook Vince’s hand and they stood inthe doorwayfor
severalseconds before Vince went out first, keepinghis body
infront ofKeegan’s. “What the hellis going on?”
“It seems as ifNardozziis makinghis move.”Vince
continued downthe hall. The elevator doors opened and four
menwalked out. Vince hauled Keeganinthe opposite direction,
towards the stairwell. Muffled shots were goingoffbehind
themas Vince kicked the emergencydoors open. The
alarmwent offand Vince pushed Keegandownthe stairs infront
ofhim. “Come on!”
Floor after floor went bythem; Vince kicked the door to the
third floor open. They came out inanemptyhallwayand Vince
walked themto the elevator. Theystood, watchingthe hallas the
elevator made its way down.
“Now what?”Keeganheld his hand; it was killinghim, as
wellas his head. He noticed the blood onVince’s shirt.
 “You’ve beenhit.”
“I was?”Vince looked at his arm. “Oh, guess I was.”The doors
opened onthe elevator and Vince put his guninfront ofhim,
checkinginside. “Come on.”
“We need to get that looked at.” Keeganpulled the materialup,
lookingat the gunshot wound. “It’s not too bad.”
Vince looked downat his shirt; his eyes fellonthe bulge
inKeegan’s pants. “Really? This excites you?”
Keegansighed infrustration. “You reallywant to talk about this
now?”
As soonas the elevator stopped, Vince pushed Keeganbehind
him, waitingfor the doors to open. Theywalked throughthe
lobby, tryingto look nonchalant, before headingout the
hotelfront doors. Vince hailed a cab, takinghis phone out.
“Who are youcalling?”Keegan looked out the back window
ofthe cab, trying to see iftheywere beingfollowed.
“Damon, we need to get out ofRio.” Vince turned inthe seat,
keepinghis eye on the road behind them.
“Where are we going?”
Vince sat back as the phone rang. “We need to go somewhere
that gives us an advantage.”
“That would be?”Keeganraised a brow.
Vince looked out the cab window. “Can’t go to Russia,
Nardozziisn’t stupid enoughto go there twice. Myvilla
inAmalfi doesn’t give us muchprotection.”Damon picked up
finally. “Damon, we have a problem —”
“Arizona.”Keeganblurted it out.
“Hangona sec.”Vince looked over at Keegan. “Arizona?
Funnyyoushould mentionthat, Nikolaisays I should move
there.”
“Youshould, you’d feelright at home,”Keegangrinned.
“Hot as hell, right?”Vince arched a brow.
“Yes, let me make a few phone calls. I know just where to go.”
“I’llcallyouback, Damon.”Vince turned inthe seat, to
studyKeegan. “Now see, this is where the trust inour
relationship comes into play.”
“There is no relationship, Vince. Keep that inmind, I meant
what I said.”Keegan pulled his phone out.
Vince looked back out the window, smiling. “Not for long.”
~~
 Halfanhour later, theywere boarding DamonSantorno’s
private jet. Vince went straight to the galley, lookingfor the
first aid kit, withKeeganright onhis heels.
“Youreallyneed to get that cleaned up, Vince. Right now is
not the time to drink.”
“I’mgettingthe first aid kit. I maynot feelpain, but I hate
infection.”Vince looked throughthe cabinets. “I know it’s
here.”
Keeganlooked under one ofthe many shelvingunits. “It’s right
here, youknow the white boxwiththe bigred cross onit?”
Keeganshook the boxback and forthinfront ofVince. “Sit
down.”
Vince raised a brow. “Excuse me?”
Keegantried to pushVince into the seat but was met
withresistance. “I need to look at it.”
“Now you’re a doctor, too?”Vince stepped away. “No offense,
but I don’t let just anyone touchme.”
“Well, you’ve beentouchingme. Fair is fair, now sit the fuck
down.”Keeganfixed Vince witha look.
Vince contemplated Keegan’s request. It wasn’t everydayhe
had someone barkingorders at himand comingfrom Keegan, it
was downright comical. “You’re sucha pushylittle man,”Vince
chuckled.
“I amnot little!”Keeganraised himselfto his fullheight,
whichwas seriously smaller inVince’s presence.
“That’s just so adorable.”Vince eyed Keegan’s pants. “Whyare
youalways getting hard? I thought it was just for me,
youknow? But whenwe were onthe run, youwere
sportingwood. So does danger and
excitement turnyouon?”Vince waggled his eyebrows.
“Youare sucha—”
“Dick? Yeah, we’ve covered that. I ama huge asshole; I feelno
pain, show no mercyand killwithprecision. I also sleep like a
fuckingbaby.”Vince pulled his shirt off. “Have at it, Agent.”
Keeganinspected the wound
carefully; there were quite a few scars on Vince’s bicep. The
bullet had just grazed the skin, thankfully. Keegantook
cottonballs out ofthe first aid box, alongwithalcoholwipes and
butterflybandages. He cleaned the wound out thoroughly,
expectingat least a hiss from Vince. There was nothing.
Duringhis time investigatingVince, he’d heard the manhad
learned to controlpain, effectivelyturningit off. He hadn’t
believed it untiljust now.
“Seems like youhave quite a few older scars.”Keeganpeered at
Vince’s hip. A scar randownhis hip, disappearingunder Vince’s
pants, most likelytoward his groin. Keeganclosed his eyes,
takinga deep breath. “What’s this one from?”
Vince looked downat his hip bone. “Nardozzi. I sliced a nice
sized hole inhis back. Asshole survived though, obviously. It’s
not oftensomeone walks awayfroma fight withme.”Vince’s
brows furrowed inthought. “Wait, no one walks away.”
“So, yousliced himwithyour famous eight-
inchknife?”Keeganpulled the skin together tightly, placinga
bandage over it.
“Yes, it was givento me byMarco whenI was inprison.”
Keeganstopped witha butterfly bandage stuck to his fingers.
“I’msorry, I heard about your family.”
“It was a longtime ago. I trynot to think about it too
much.”Vince looked towards the front ofthe plane. “So what’s
your story?”
“Meaning?”Keeganpositioned the bandage, carefullyplacingit.
His fingers brushed the soft skinonVince’s hip, and he was
surprised to see little bumps form. Keegansmiled, keepinghis
head down.
“What made youdecide to be inthe FBI?”Vince looked downat
his bicep. “Good work.”
“Mydad was a Fed,”Keegan shrugged his shoulders. “I wanted
to be a doctor, whichobviouslydidn’t happen.”
Vince eyed Keeganclosely. “Your dad wanted youto be
manlier, didn’t he?”
Keeganstood up. “Wow, youjust keep going, don’t you? Don’t
youthink I’ve heard it all? AllthroughtrainingI was called
‘pretty,’ I was the butt ofjokes, punintended. Just because I
look allcute and innocent doesn’t meanI am.”Keeganthrust the
first aid boxat Vince. “You’re welcome.”
Vince followed Keeganto the main cabin. “So what’s the
dealwiththe boners?” Vince almost raninto Keegan, whenhe
abruptlystopped.
Keeganturned to look at Vince. “If youmust know, it’s a
nervous condition. WhenI’mnervous or scared I get a hard-on,
allright?”
“And youstutter.”Vince felt the anger permeatingfromKeegan.
“I’mjust bringingup a fact. Look, I cansee whyyougot your
tightie whities ina bunch, allright? But the simple fact ofthe
matter is, youare pretty, youget boners and youstutter. So I’m
guessingyour childhood wasn’t allrosy. I meanyour skinalone,
it’s perfect and unblemished.”Vince eyed Keegan’s bodyin
jeans; he had slimhips and the jeans he wore curved
nicelyaround his muscular thighs. The woodyhe was
sportingat the moment could be seenperfectlyinthe tight denim
surroundingit.
“Ohtrust me, Vince. Myskinis not unblemished.”Keegansat
down, witha heavy sigh. “Youhave no idea the shit I have
endured.”
“Well, enlightenme then. Maybe I’ll see youina different
light.”Vince sat across fromKeegan.
“Youwon’t, you’re Vince Markov, killer. I’mKeeganRipley,
FBI agent. We are fromtwo verydifferent worlds.”
“I stillthink you’re hot, evenifyou carrya badge.”Vince sat
back, witha grin.
“Youwouldn’t ifyouknew…” Keegantrailed off, lookingout the
window.
“IfI knew what?”Vince sat forward takingKeegan’s hand. He
ranhis fingertip over Keegan’s nails. “Is it about this? Scars
aren’t uglyKeegan, theytella story.”
“Yeah?”Keeganpulled his hand back. “I have a
fuckingnovelthen.”Keegan stood up. “I’mgoingto use the
restroom.”
Vince sat back, watchingKeegan make his wayto the back
ofthe plane. Somethinghad happened to the younger agent and
he was goingto find out what it was. Keeganseemed scarred
inmore ways than one. Vince closed his eyes. He’d been
worried this morningabout Keegangetting hurt. He realized
he’d shielded Keeganmore thanonce while evadingNardozzi’s
men. What was goingonwithhim? Did Keegan’s rejectionfuck
himup? Vince sighed, running his hands over his face.
Somethingwas changingand it was freakinghimout.
Chapter Five
Almost twentyfour hours later, Vince stood infront ofa
house withKeeganin Benson, Arizona. Keeganpunched
numbers into a panelonthe side ofthe house, initiating some
kind ofmechanisminside. There was a series ofclicks, thenthe
door opened. Keegan stepped inside, openingthe door further.
“Welcome to the SkullBlaster safe house,”Keegangrinned,
walkingpast Vince into the kitchen.
“The what?”Vince followed Keegan into the kitchen.
“What the hellis a skull blaster?”
“A verylarge gun?”Keeganchuckled, takingVince into the
livingroom. He pointed to a picture onthe wall. “They are the
Skull Blasters.”
Vince peered at the picture, narrowing his eyes. “I know
him, that’s the Esposito guy,”Vince snorted. “What anass.”
“He feels the same about you, trust me,”Keegansaid.
“Youknow Troy.”
“Yeah, and I’ve seenthese guys, too. That one is Josh,
thenSamand that’s the generalwho came for Pruitt.”
Keeganwalked back into the kitchen. “Theyare together now.”
“The generalfinallygot his man?” Vince walked into the
kitchen, lookingaround. “Wellthis is…basic.”
“It’s not the Copacabana; it’s not supposed to be. It was built
to protect, not to look pretty.”
Vince leaned against the wall, looking Keeganover slowly.
“Well, youdefinitelyadd some prettyto it.”
Keeganturned to face Vince. “What part ofI’mnot interested,
or no, did younot get?”
Vince moved closer, watching Keegan’s bodylanguage. “See,
that’s just it. I’mnot buyingit, Agent, I think youdo like me and
I think youare very interested.”
Keegantilted his head. “How do you do it?”
“Do what?”
“Walk upright, withsucha ginormous head?”
Vince chuckled, makinghis way closer to Keegan. “Look me
inthe eye, and tellme youdon’t find me attractive.”
Keegansteeled himselffor Vince’s frontalattack. He kept his
breathingas normal as possible and looked up into eyes black
as onyx. “I amnot attracted to you.”
Vince smiled, leaningover, looking into Keegan’s eyes. “Liar.
It’s allright though, Keegan, I canbe patient. Whether youwant
to admit it or not, there is somethinghere.” Vince motioned
betweentheir two bodies.
“I’mnot interested injust sex, Vince. So this?”Keeganmotioned
betweenthem, “willnever work.”Keeganstalked past Vince and
downthe hall. “I’llshow youto your room.”
Vince followed Keegandownthe hall to the first bedroom.
Vince took a look around - queensized bed, one dresser and a
nightstand witha lamp. A flat screen, maybe twentyinches, sat
ontop ofthe dresser witha satellite boxunder it. “Well, at least
there’s TV.”
“Yep, and onthat note…”Keegan stopped at his bedroomdoor.
“Goodnight, Vince.”
Vince sat onthe edge ofthe bed, lookingaround. “Wellthis
should be fun.”
~~
Sunlight streamed throughthe thin curtains ofthe bedroom.
Vince rolled over, lookingat the time. Damn, sixinthe
morning? What the heck was withArizona and the sun
alreadyup? He checked his phone before gettingup to go to the
bathroom. The house was silent, but Vince could smellcoffee
brewing. That alone had himdoinghis morning business faster.
Caffeine was a must. Washing his hands, he splashed water
onhis face, trying to wake up a bit more.
He reallyneeded to get his shit together; he was ina townhe
didn’t know shit about, ina house that he wasn’t familiar with.
Vince stretched his arms and cracked his neck fromside to side
as he entered the kitchen. Keegansat at the chair bythe
window, cup of coffee inone hand, book inthe other. He looked
beautifulsittingthere, sunlight
streamingacross his cheekbones.
“Morning.”Vince made a beeline for the coffee pot. “Did we
sleep well?”

“Yes, I had a night light and a Teddy,”

Keegansnickered.
“I could have beenyour Teddy.”
Vince poured the coffee, inhalingits rich
aroma.
“Are youalways so…”Keegantilted
his head inthought.
Vince leaned against the counter. “I
think youmaybe runningout ofadjectives. I
think I saw a thesaurus out onthe bookshelf.” Keegansighed
infrustration. “Jesus.” Vince moved to the table and sat
downacross fromKeegan. He took his hand
gently, inspectinghis fingers. “How are they?”
“Fine.”Keegantried to take his hand
back.
“Look at your hands.”Vince turned
themover, feelingthe softness ofthem. “You never worked a
hard dayinyour life, have you? You’re probablya richkid,
bornwitha
silver spoonup his ass.”
Keeganpulled his hand back. “That’s
where you’d be wrong. For someone who
knows how to read people, you’ve got it all
wrong. I drive a beat up Honda because I
can’t afford anythingelse. I don’t evenowna
flat screenTV because I can’t afford it. I’m
barelymakingmyrent payments, plus my
mom’s, and she doesn’t evenhave air
conditioningright now because the super inthe
buildinghas decided everyone should lose
weight!”Keeganstood up, pacing. “Youhave
no idea what I have done; I’ve scraped by,
barelyhangingoneachmonth.”Keegan
turned, lookingat Vince. “Ifanyone’s rich, it’s
you, killingfor a living.”
Vince stood, placinghis hands onthe
table and leaningover. “I killbad men,
Keegan, and I do it witha fuckingsonginmy
heart. I know whenI killsomeone it’s for a
reason.”Vince eyed Keegan. He had
suspected the youngagent came froma
hardworkingfamily, but he wanted Keeganto
openup to him, trust him. Maybe thenhe
could get the realstory.
“Yes, I’ve seenyour handiwork,”
Keegansnapped. “Tellme, Vince, does it
ever cross your mind that the people youkill
could have families?”
“Allthe fuckingtime, but I know if
theydo, theyare just as abused as the rest of
the victims. I haven’t killed needlesslyinyears.
Inthe beginningI did it to survive, thenI did it
out ofanger.”Vince shrugged. “Now I just do it as a job; it
doesn’t matter to me one wayor another how these mendie, as
longas they do.”Vince looked around the house. “I need
to know everythingabout this place.”
Keeganwalked throughthe kitchen
and opened the back door. “Follow me.” The house was
cement and steel,
covered byvinylsiding. The generaland
Mateo had built it fromthe ground up. Allthe
windows were bulletproof. The back yard
was another story; as longas younever came
outside, youwere good. A sixfoot wooden
fence surrounded the back yard and a garage
sat offto the side, behind the house. The
house sat up ona hill, makinganattack from
below harder, but doable. Vince took his time,
gettinga feelfor the propertyand locating
weak points. He found Keeganinthe garage,
lookingthroughammo boxes.
“Well, you’re safe, ifyouremaininthe
house.”Vince looked around; the walls were
lined withtools ofallshapes and sizes. Paint
cans lined the floor, alongwithtarps. Vince
looked up, noticinga sprinkler systemas well
as more ammo boxes inthe rafters. “I noticed
motionsensors, downat the base ofthe hill.” Keeganturned to
look at Vince. “You
saw them?”
Vince smirked. “I’mtrained to look
for them, don’t worry, theywere well
hidden.”Vince peered inside the ammo box.
“What’s allthis?”
Keegansnapped the lid shut. “None
ofyour business.”
“Damn, youare a rude little man. See
that right there tells me youhave the hots for
me.” “I wouldn’t piss onyou—”
“Wellthat’s good, not into the whole
goldenshowers thing,”Vince waggled his
eyebrows.
“Ifyouwere onfire, Vince,”Keegan
finished. “Whenare yougoingto let it sink in?
I don’t want you, I never will.”
As Keeganturned to leave, his wrist
was grabbed and he turned to face Vince. “Youcandenyit
allyouwant Keegan,
but your eyes give youaway.”Vince walked
byKeegan, lettinghis hand slide across the
younger man’s ass. “I always get what I want,
Keegan.”
Keegancrossed his arms, waitingfor
Vince to enter the house. Once the door
closed, Keegangrabbed the tooltable, steadyinghimself. Jesus,
it took everythinghe had not to throw Vince into a walland
attack his lips. Damnthe manhad anego the size of Texas. He
supposed it was warranted, Vince always got his man.
Keegantook deep
breaths and closed his eyes.
You can do this.
~~
Over the next two days, Keegan became more and more
entranced byVince. Oh, sure, the manwas infuriatingat
everyturn, but it wasn’t crueljokes about his sexuality like he
was used to. More like nit-picking about his age,
whichKeegangave right back. The second morning, he’d
wokenup to plastic wrap over the toilet seat. Vince did not do
wellinenclosed spaces.
Keeganalso realized that Vince worked out everymorning;
he’d wokenup earlyto see Vince outside, hangingupside
downona palo verde tree byhis legs. After two hundred
crunches, Keeganstopped counting. It went onfor two hours;
no wonder the manwas lethal. Everyflexofa bicep had
Keeganhard as a steelpipe. Vince was absolutelybreathtaking.
He had slimhips, his back was broad and his biceps had to be
at least twentyinches round. The massive ink wrapped around
bothbiceps almost downto his wrists. Multiple tattoos covered
his back and chest; some were Chinese symbols and others
were easilyidentified. A guntattoo sat onhis right hip, the
muzzle ofthe gunran underneathVince’s shorts. Keegantore his
eyes away.
As muchas he tried stayingawayfrom Vince, theywere
inconstant contact. Every walk throughthe kitchenhad his
bodyrubbing against Vince’s, incitingnot onlygoose bumps,
but his signature boner. The manhit onhim everychance he got
and Keeganwas caving everysecond he spent withVince. He
was tryingto stayprofessional, dammit.
This morning, Vince was outside workingout.
Keegansipped his coffee, eyeing the muscles rippling. Jesus,
Vince didn’t even break a damnsweat and it had to be at least
ninetyoutside already. Vince looked up just then,
catchingKeeganwatchinghim. He grinned and pulled his shorts
low onhis hips. Keeganrolled his eyes and turned his back
awayfromthe window.
Laundrywas pilingup already, and Keeganwent about
washingsome ofit. The SkullBlaster safe house came
withclothes for anyone and inanysize that was needed. So far,
Keeganhad borrowed a few pairs of sweats and underwear,
alongwithsome thin T-shirts. He heard the back door openand
thenfelt Vince’s presence inthe laundryroom.
“Here,”Vince slipped the shorts off, throwingthemat
Keegan’s head. “These need to be cleaned.”
 Keeganturned, mouthopen, readyto tellVince where to go,
except nothingcame out. Vince’s cock was rock hard and
sticking straight up, leavinga stickytrailofpre-cumon his toned
abs.
Vince smiled wickedly. “Look at that,
I’malreadyleakingjust thinkingabout your lips wrapped around
me.”Vince smirked at the hard-oninKeegan’s sweats. “Uhhuh,
what are younervous about?”
Keegansighed. “Get out.”
Vince turned, shakinghis ass as he did. “Youknow youwant
it, Agent!”
Keeganslammed the laundryroom door, collapsingonthe
washer. “For fuck’s sake.”
Most ofthe daywent bywithout further incident. Keeganread
most ofthe day, made lunchand stayed far awayfromVince.
Ofcourse that didn’t stop Vince frommaking comments for
most ofthe day. More than once, Keeganshot hima look
ofannoyance and was met witha grin. DamnVince and his
grins. The manwas so damnbeautifulit made Keegan’s hands
sweat, his heart palpitate and his stutter show up more often.
Not to mention the damnboners poppingup everyfew minutes.
Vince didn’t make funofhimfor the stuttering, whichwas a
surprise. Most ofthe jabs were at his boners, whichofcourse
Keeganhad to explainagainand againhad nothingto do
withhow hot Vince was, or wasn’t. He was gettinggood at
lying.
Damn, he wanted Vince, onthe floor, table, bed, he didn’t care
where. Just watching the man’s ass as he bent over gave
himwood. Keeganadjusted his cock for the hundredth time and
left the kitchen. Settlinginonthe futonhe grabbed the remote,
searchingfor somethingto watch.
“I see the general’s got Nick Jr.” Vince leaned against the wall,
grinning. “I’m sure cartoons are on, maybe evena Disney
movie.”Vince bit his lip, tryingnot to laugh. Keeganflipped
hima pinky.
“Wrongfinger.”
“Nope, it’s a feather; you’re not worth the whole bird.”
Vince cracked up. “Ohmy, Keegan cangive as good as he
gets.”Vince sauntered into the familyroom,
ploppingdownonthe futonand cozyingup to Keegan.
“Yousmell so damngood,”Vince growled playfully.
Everyhair stood onend and Keegan closed his eyes.
“Willyoustop?”
“Nope, sorry; I find youattractive.” Vince reached his hand up,
onlyto pullit back whenKeeganturned to face him. Damnbut
his eyes were mesmerizing; he wanted Keegan, like now,
under him, moaningin pleasure. Vince’s dick hardened,
makinghim shift onthe sofa.
“Look, ifwe are goingto be stuck together, youneed to learnto
shut your mouth,”Keegansaid.
“What ifI want it open? What ifI want somethinginit?”Vince
leaned forward. “What ifI want your dick init?”
Keeganstood up. “Willyouquit?”
Vince had a nice view ofKeegan’s crotch, the hard-onvisible
throughthe sweat pants. He motioned to the hard cock
protruding. “So, is this that nervous condition thingagain? Or
did I make youhorny?”
Keeganhanded Vince the remote. “Turnup the sound, it’s a
Scooter chair commercial.”
“Yeah? I’ve always wanted one of those scooter
thingies.”Vince leaned back on the couch. “I want the old
schoolbellonmine though- ding, ding, vroom!”
“We cango eat at the Denny’s; their senior citizenmenuis
prettygood,”Keegan snickered.
“Yeah? I heard the kiddie pancakes are delicious,”Vince
winked. “But we’llhave to make sure youhave a booster seat,
or we cango to Applebee’s, kids eat free on Tuesdays.”
“Youare so fuckinginfuriating!” Keeganhuffed, makinghis
wayto the kitchen.
“Ohcome on!”Vince laughed, followingKeegan. “Youthink a
few jabs at myage are goingto bother me? Come on Keegie,
youknow youlove me.”
“Do not callme Keegie.”Keegan pointed a finger at Vince.
“Okay, ifI promise not to callyouthat willyoube nicer to
me?”Vince pouted.
Keegancouldn’t help the smile onhis lips. Dammit. “Whydon’t
we watcha movie? Ifyou’re a good boy, I’llevenmake
popcorn,”Keeganchuckled.
Vince widened his eyes comically. “Really, Dad?”
“Ha, ha, just for that, I’mputtingin ‘Sleepless
inSeattle.’”Keeganturned onhis heel, walkingout ofthe kitchen.
Vince poked his head out ofthe kitchen, watchingas
Keeganmade his way downthe hallto the bedroomnext door.
“Does the generalevenownthat movie?”
“Ifnot, I’llfind somethingequally chick flickish.”
“Flickish?”Vince sighed, and walked to his ownroom,
droppingonto the bed. God, he was tired and hungry. As
ifKeeganheard his inner thoughts, Vince heard himdownthe
hall.
“I’mgoingto make dinner, spaghetti okay?”
Vince got up at the prospect offood. He peeked into the other
rooms onhis wayto the kitchen. Three more rooms, one was
obviouslythe general’s private room. The other one screamed
Esposito, it just looked assholish. Vince chuckled; the last
roomwas obviouslyfor either womenor smallchildren. It was
veryfeminine. “Hey, I found your room.”
Keeganpoked his head out ofthe kitchen. “Yup, the girliest
filmI canfind. Get in here and help me.”
“Yes, sir!”Vince looked throughthe pantry, as wellas the rest
ofthe cabinets. “What do youneed?”
“Oregano for sure, and see ifthere are some canned tomatoes
inthere, please.” Keeganpulled the angelhair pasta out ofthe
pantry. His eyes scanned the spices. “I don’t see oregano
inhere.”
“No, it’s inhere.”Vince grabbed the smallcontainer out ofthe
cabinet, handingit to Keegan. Their fingers brushed and Vince
felt a strange sensationinhis gut.
Keeganpulled his hand away. “What is it?”
Vince snapped out ofhis daze. “It’s nothing.”
Theyate quietly, Vince eatingthree plates to Keegan’s two. The
manate like he was starving; Keeganhanded Vince another
garlic roll. Keegansat back as Vince pulled the rollapart and
thenproceeded to soak up the remainingsauce withit. It was
weird, to saythe least, sittingwithVince Markoveating dinner.
Keegan’s eyes fellonVince’s strong hands, he could almost
feelthemslidingdown his—
“Keegan?”Vince raised a brow.
“Yup.”Keegansnapped back to reality.
“What were youthinkingjust now?” Vince sat back, wipinghis
mouthoff.
“That youeat a lot, and I’d hate to see your grocerybill.”
“It’s ginormous, like myhead,”Vince winked.
Keegan’s bodybroke out ingoose bumps, the wayVince looked
at himwas downright sexual, and it felt like anactual caress
onhis body. Keegangot up, grabbing his plate and glass and
headed for the sink.
“Um, so there’s a fire pit outside, we cansit, have a beer?”
“Sounds good, I canstart the fire, unless youwant me to do
dishes.”
Keeganstopped midwayto the sink, turningslowly. “Youdo
dishes?”
Vince smirked. “Wellyeah, I was married for over
twentyyears.”
“Don’t remind me,”Keeganmumbled.
“What was that?”Vince moved closer to Keegan, takingthe
plate fromhis hands.
“I said the wood is outside.”Keegan took the rest ofthe dishes
offthe table, putting theminthe sink. A hand ranup his waist,
gentlypushinghimaside.
“I’llget these, keep your hand dry. Okay?”
Keeganclosed his eyes, takinga deep breath.
“Allright, youwant to bringthe beers out then?”
“Yes, go sit down. This won’t take long.”Vince nudged
Keeganinthe hip.
Keeganwent out to the back yard, lookingup at the night sky.
Arizona at night was breathtaking. Everystar could be seenin
the sky. Derek’s house sat up ona hill, and the view ofthe
valleybelow was what made the house so beautiful. The
poollights were on as Keegantook the wood fromthe garage. It
looked so inviting. Keeganlooked at his hand, frowning.
Stupid Carlos. Keeganplaced the wood inthe pit and lit it; the
smellofhickory filled the night air inseconds. A beer appeared
infront ofhimand he looked up, smilingat Vince.
“Thank you.”
Vince sat downinthe chair across fromKeegan. “It’s
beautifulout here. I can see whyNikolaiwanted me to come
here.”
“Aside fromthe fact that youcan cook aneggonthe sidewalk
inJuly, it’s a beautifulplace to live.”
“Have youtried?”Vince chuckled.
“Actually, yes I have. Well, Rileyand I tried.”
Vince nodded. “Ah, Esposito’s husband. Theymake anodd
pair. Rileyis warmand friendly, Esposito is, well, not.”
“Mateo is a reallygood guy, he canbe reallysweet.
EspeciallywhenRiley’s around, the difference is amazing.
Mateo was cold and unfeelingbefore Riley.”
“So, like me inthat respect?”Vince sat back, eyeingKeegan’s
face inthe firelight. He looked almost etherealbythe light ofthe
fire.
“Well, Mateo was a foster kid; he lost his parents whenhe was
reallyyoung. He’d spent his whole life infoster care untilhe
joined the Army. I guess losinghis parents changed him. He
didn’t want to ever fallin love; he never wanted that painagain.
Riley lost his mom, and his dad was a jackass so whenhe met
Mateo, the sparks flew and that, as theysay, was that.”
“How did theymeet?”
Keegansat back witha grin. “Riley was Mateo’s target.”
Vince’s jaw dropped. “Youmean …?”
“Yep, Mateo was supposed to kill Riley. It’s a longstory, but to
make it short, Mateo felt somethingwasn’t right withthe whole
thingand backed out at the last minute. Theywent througha lot
together; it’s only made themthat muchstronger.”
“I saw the picture inthe livingroom, who’s the guywithJosh?”
“That’s Mark, his husband.”
“He is pretty,”Vince chuckled at the look onKeegan’s face.
“Longstoryshort? Whenwe rescued Pruitt, I met Josh. He told
me his husband was mytype.”
“Mark is everyone’s type,”Keegan grinned. “The
funnythingabout those two? Joshwasn’t evengay.”
“What?”Vince sat back, jaw onthe ground.
Keegansat back, peelingthe labeloff his beer. “Joshwas
inPeruto take out Manuel —”
“Mortiquan?”Vince chuckled, as Keegannodded. “That was
supposed to be my job.”
“See? This is whymyboss wants us to work together. So,
anyway… Joshends up rescuingMark, and inthe next few
weeks starts to have feelings for him. Whichfreaks himout and
he runs to Alaska. Sixmonths later, and after a lot
ofcounseling, Mark shows up inAlaska. Let’s just saytheyset
Denalionfire,”Keeganraised a comicalbrow at Vince.
Vince sipped his beer. “So, is the whole teamgaythen?”
“Amazingly, yes. No one saw Josh coming, though.”
“I bet Mark did,”Vince laughed loud.
Keeganlaughed, almost chokingon his beer. He looked at
Vince, the smile suited him. This was a side ofVince he hadn’t
seen inallhis years ofsurveillance.
“What?”Vince asked.
“It’s just…weird to see yousmiling, and I meana genuine
smile.”Keegantilted his head.
“I haven’t beenhappyina longtime. I knew Andreideserved
better, but it stillcame as a shock whenhe asked for the
divorce. I understand it now, though. He deserves someone
who canbe whole and love him unconditionally.”Vince looked
up, meeting Keegan’s eyes. “I never opened up to him, he
deserved so muchmore. Whenwe saw each other again, years
after I killed his father, he almost had me killed. Damonwas
good friends withAndreiat the time and whenmy last name
was mentioned…”Vince shrugged. “Andreirealized who I was.
His father had let it slip to his friends that he’d raped the
Markovwomenwhile theywere inprison.”
Keegansucked ina breath. “Oh God…”
“I didn’t feelbad whenI killed Panchenko, I really didn’t
feelbad after I’d heard that. I was asked to watchover Andrei,
while theyhunted downone ofhis Turkish enemies. I ended up
killingthe guywhenhe came after Andreiinhis owndamnhouse.
After a while, Andreibroke me down. I love him, don’t get me
wrong, but it’s not the love others feelfor eachother.”
“What kind oflove is that?”Keegan asked.
Vince sighed, runninga hand through his hair. “The kind
oflove that makes you move mountains for someone, I guess.
As Damonputs it, the love that makes your heart pound and
your hands sweat.”
Keeganlooked into the fire. “I’ve never evenhad that.”
“No?”
“No.”
“I just don’t see how that can happen.”Vince leaned back inthe
chair, crossinghis legs at the ankles. “I made it my
missioninlife not to feel. I don’t know how to turnthat back
on.”
Keeganrealized the fire was going out; they’d
beensittingoutside for over an hour. Where’d the time go?
“So, what do yousaywe grab another beer and find
somethingto watch? Mybodyis allscrewed up fromthe time
difference.”
Vince looked at his watch. “It’s only ten?”
“Weird, huh?”Keeganstood up, crackinghis back. “Come on.”
Theybothsat onthe futon, a bowlof popcornbetweenthem.
Keeganflipped throughthe guide tryingto find somethingto
watch. He flipped to the DVR and felt a hand onhis. He turned
to look at Vince. “What?”
“There’s, like, the whole seasonof ‘The WalkingDead’
recorded.”Vince turned to see Keeganlookingat himwitha
raised brow. “Nikolaiwatches it, he got me hooked. Do younot
want to watchit?”
“We canwatchit ifyouwant.” Keegansmiled inwardly. Hell
yeah he watched the show.
Vince couldn’t remember the last time he felt so comfortable.
Theysat munching popcorn, watchingthe show like a couple,
makingcomments about certainscenes. It was weird. Vince felt
heaviness onhis shoulder and realized Keeganhad fallenasleep
onhim.
“Keegan?”Vince nudged himgently.
“Mmm…”
“Hey, youneed to get to bed.”Vince moved slowly, tryingnot to
move Keegantoo much. He stood, lookingdownat Keegan’s
face.
“Keegan?”Vince smiled as a soft snore filled the room. He
picked Keeganup, carefullyplacinghis wounded hand onhis
chest. He found the roomKeeganhad chosen and pulled the
blanket back withone hand. He put Keegandowngently,
tryingnot to jar him. TakingKeegan’s shoes off, he pulled the
covers up and sat onthe edge ofthe bed.
Vince looked at the sleeping, angelic face ofKeeganRipley.
The mantrulywas beautiful, the eyes, the hair, the body, he was
everythingrolled into one mouthwatering package.
“Vince…”Keeganmumbled.
Vince leaned over closer. “What is it?”Vince whispered. A
hand threaded into his hair and thenhe was beingpulled
forward. Vince was inutter shock as his lips met with
Keegan’s. His dick was hard as a rock in seconds.
Keegansighed, openinghis mouth and Vince went withit. Fuck
it. He realized too late that he hadn’t beenprepared to kiss
KeeganRipley. The kiss started slow, then progressed as
Keegan’s hands wrapped inhis hair. Vince’s hands went to
Keegan’s face immediately, his lips flowingover Keegan’s,
their tongues meetingina sexualdance. Then it was over;
Keeganpulled back fromthe kiss witha heavysighand rolled
over.
Vince stood up onshakylegs, trying to make it back to his
room. He stumbled in, shuttingthe door and leaningagainst it.
“Holy fuck.”
Vince sat onthe edge ofthe bed, his legs stillshaking. No one
had ever affected himlike that withjust a kiss. His heart was
beatinga mile a minute, poundinginhis chest. Vince layback
onthe bed, staringat the white ceiling. Jesus, Keegancould kiss
- and he had beenasleep. Vince couldn’t evenimagine what it
would be like ifthe manwas awake. His dick became
evenharder at that thought, strainingthe zipper onhis jeans.
“Fuck, I need a cold shower.”His cell phone beeped
fromsomewhere inthe room. Vince stood up, grabbingthe
dresser for balance. He found his phone onthe night stand;
lookingat the caller ID, he smiled.
“Nik? Youfind the strip clubs okay?”
“I can’t get inanyway,”Nikolai scowled onhis end. “What’s up
withyou? Yousound…flustered.”
“Longstory, what’s up?”
“Weirdest thing, I got past the last firewall, right? Thenas
soonas I accessed the records onKeeganRipley, I was slammed
witha virus. Fucked up mywhole computer and I have the best
shit onmine. Oh, and you’re goingto love this - guess who
made the program?”
“KeeganRipley,”Vince chuckled, shakinghis head.
“Yep, and I got a skulland
crossbones and the damnskullwas laughing! Next thingI know,
pow! Welcome to the Ripper, was flashingacross myscreen.
That was it, fried myshit, crispy. Don’t worry, I’m not
givingup. I have a program. Now that I know what he’s got,
oh, it’s on!”
Vince chuckled at his son’s tone of voice. “It’s a challenge
now, isn’t it?”
“Hell, yeahit is!”Nikolailaughed. “How are things
goingwithhimanyway?”
“Well, he’s got a couple broken fingers fromCarlos Nardozzi; I
got there just intime to save his ass froma snapped neck.”
“No shit?”
“No shit. Sliced Carlos.”
“Lungs?”
“Yep.”
“I always miss the funstuff!”
“Hey, yougot quite a few of Nardozzi’s meninRussia.”Vince
had to laugh; Nikolaiwas just as ruthless as he was. He’d
beenkidnapped as a child and held for ransom. Duringthat
time, he’d suffered brokenbones and dailybeatings. Whenhe
and Andreihad finallyfound Nikolai’s kidnapper,
Nikolaiwanted to killthe man himself. Fromthat point on,
Vince made it his missionto teachhis soneverythinghe’d been
taught, whichincluded jujitsuand karate along withcage
fightingtechniques.
“Yeahwell, theyhad it coming, going after
Dad,”Nikolaichuckled. “Anyway, I’ll keep at it. Where are
you, anyway?”
“Arizona, ina safe house. Nardozzi came after us inRio.”
“I’mjust hearingabout this now?” Nikolaibalked.
“Hey, I’mfine and so is Keegan. You enjoySeattle and
Sebastian.”
“How manydid youkillthis time?” Nikolaitried not to laugh.
“Two, it was a slow dayfor me.” Vince looked at the time. “I
have to go to bed, kid. I love you, more thananything, you
know that right?”
Nikolaismiled into the phone. “I know that, Pops. I’ve always
knownhow muchyou love me. Now, go get
laid,”Nikolaicracked up.
“Night, ya perv,”Vince laughed, snappinghis phone shut.
Vince fellonthe bed, fullydressed and utterlyexhausted withthe
feelofKeegan’s lips stillonhis own.
~~
Morningcame alltoo soonfor Keegan. His hand was
killinghim, as was his head. The smellofsausage wafted into
the roomand Keegan’s stomachgrowled. He threw his legs
over the side ofthe bed, wincing as his back cracked. He felt
eightythis morning. He peered at the clock, thenlooked again,
tryingto make his eyes focus. Teninthe morning? He hadn’t
slept that late since… his brows pinched inthought, he
couldn’t remember when. College, maybe?
Stumblinginto the bathroom, he stood over the toilet
tryingto wake up. God, he needed coffee. After a quick hot
shower, Keegangot dressed and made his wayinto the kitchen.
Vince was at the diningroom table, witha tallcup ofcoffee. He
was in sweat pants, bare chested. Shit. He looked up as
Keegancame in, another genuine smile on his lips. It made
himevensexier. A strange feelingcame over himas he looked at
Vince. His stomachflopped and his lips tingled. What the
fuck?
“Morning.”Keeganwent straight for the coffee pot, tryingto
hide his face. “When did youget up?”
“Depends onwhat state or country youwant to go by.
Mybodyis alljacked up. But byArizona time, it was
six.”Vince’s eyes roamed Keegan’s body. Damnbut the man
was gorgeous eveninsweat pants.
Keeganlooked at allthe food warmingonthe stove burners.
“Wow, you made a lot offood. Thank you.”Keegantook a little
bit ofeverything, scrambled eggs, hash browns, toast, sausage
and bacon. Pilinghis plate high, he grabbed his coffee cup,
settling inat the table.
“I’ve seenyoueat,”Vince raised a brow. “I have no idea
where youput it all; it’s like watchingLorenzo at a buffet.”
“Youand Lorenzo are close, aren’t you?”Keegansipped his
coffee, takinga bite oftoast.
“Yes, I meanI’mclose withallthe guys, but Lorenzo and I
had a lot incommon. He was beatenas a child.
WhenDamonfound out, he sent Marco to take Lorenzo out
ofhis house. Lorenzo’s one ofDamon’s best assassins.”
“But youare his number one, aren’t you? Because
youfeelnothing.”
Vince studied Keegan’s face, the memoryofthe kiss stillfirst
and foremost on his mind. “No, I don’t. I’ve had menscream
for mercyand it didn’t evenregister. Whenthe rage comes,
everythingdisappears and I become someone else.”
“Youweren’t always like that, though, were you? What
happened inthe prisonis what changed everything.”Keegansaw
Vince’s eyes darken. “I’msorry, I shouldn’t have said
anything.”
Vince sat forward, lookingat Keegan. “Yousaid youknow
everythingabout me, just how muchdo youknow?”
“Are we goingto go over that again? I told you—”
“No, youlied to myface.”Vince gripped Keegan’s wrist. “I’ve
beentrained by the best Keegan; I know whensomeone is
lying. Bodylanguage, heart rate, pupils, I don’t need a lie
detector to tellme you’re lying. I could always give yousodium
pentothal.”
“Go ahead,”Keegansnorted. “It won’t work, I’mimmune.”
Vince sat back, crossinghis arms. “Oh? Whyis that? It’s
because youhave information, that’s why.”Vince smiled, as
Keeganstiffened inhis chair. “That’s it? Isn’t it?”
Keeganlooked up, narrowinghis eyes at Vince. “Drop it, now.”
Vince was surprised, Keegan, had some bigbrass balls. “Well,
seems Keegan has some bite. I have to say, it’s refreshingto
meet someone who doesn’t runscreaming fromme.”
“Is that before or after sex?”Keegan raised aneyebrow.
Vince gave Keeganhis devilishgrin. “Both.”
Keegan’s face went five shades of red. He’d had sexbefore,
not a lot, but he’d had some. He could count onone hand his
sexualexperiences. How pathetic was that? Here he was,
sittingat the table withthe notorious Vince Markovand he had
no idea what to say. He realized he was stillstaringat Vince.
“So, um…”
“Are youa virgin, Agent Ripley?” Vince cocked his head to the
side, assessing Keegan.
“W-w-what?”Keeganstammered. “N-n-no I’mnot a v-v-
virgin!”
Vince chuckled softly. “I love it when youstutter. I make
younervous, don’t I?”
“No, d-d-don’t be ridiculous.” Keeganstood up, takinghis plate
to the sink. The kitchenwas becomingincreasinglysmaller
inseconds. Settinghis plate inthe basin, he turned to see Vince
right inhis face. “Excuse me.”
Vince ranhis hand up Keegan’s arm, softly. “See, I think I do
make younervous. I think youdo want me. Infact, I’d
sayyou’ve wanted me for years.”
“God, youare so fullofyourself, you know that?”Keegantried
to get around Vince to no avail. “Willyouplease back off?”
Keegan’s heart rate was goingthroughthe roof, his dick filled
inseconds. He had to get awayfromVince, like now.
Vince’s fingers trailed the soft skinof Keegan’s jaw, pullinghis
face up to his own. “Whycan’t youjust tellme the truth,
Keegan? I’lltellyouwhat, would it help ifI told youI want you?
That I think about kissingyouevery time I look at you? That I
want youinbed withme?”Vince caressed the side of
Keegan’s jaw. “I’mnot joking; I’mvery serious right now.”
Keeganscowled. “Youwant everyone inbed withyou.”
“Not anymore.”Vince leaned in closer, his lips
barelybrushingKeegan’s. “Besides, none ofthemever kissed me
the wayyoudid.”
Keeganjerked away. “What the hell are youtalkingabout?”
“Last night, whenI put youinbed, youkissed me.”Vince put his
hands oneither side ofthe counter, blockingKeeganin.
“I did no suchthing! Youwere drunk.”
“Youwere sleeping.”Vince kissed the soft skinofKeegan’s
neck, runninghis lips alonghis jaw and nibblinghis chin.
“Think Keegan, whenyousaw me this morning, did
youfeelanything?”Vince pulled back to see Keegan’s face;
confusioncrossed over his features. “Youdid.”
Keeganclosed his eyes. “I can’t do this,”he whispered. Vince’s
fingers were slowlycaressingthe nape ofhis neck, moving up
and downthe rapid pulse.
“Stop fightingme and let me kiss you. Ifyoudon’t like it,
I’llnever mess withyou again. We’llget this job done and
thenwe can go our separate ways.”
Keeganshook his head. “No, this is a bad idea. A very bad
idea.”
“Let me know ifyoufeelthe same wayafterwards.”
Keeganfroze; it was as ifhis brainhad turned offthe receptors to
the rest ofhis body. Vince’s hand was threadinginto his hair,
massagingthe nape ofhis neck and thenwarm lips brushed his.
A teasingtongue slid across his lips and Keegan’s
mouthopened on instinct. He tried to fight, but whenVince’s
tongue swept inside his mouth, allbets were off.
He whimpered as Vince crushed him to his chest, takinghis
mouthina kiss that left himbreathless. He wrapped his arms
around Vince’s neck as his feet left the ground. Wrappinghis
fingers inVince’s hair, he gave as good as he got. There was a
low groan fromVince and thenhe was up against the wall,
beingdevoured bya six-foot-two Vince Markov. OhChrist, he’d
never beenkissed like this; it was his fantasycomingtrue.
Wrappinghis legs around Vince’s hips, he was treated to
another low groanfromVince and a stronghand onhis ass,
squeezing.
Another low whimper escaped himas Vince pushed further
into his mouth, tasting him, the hand inhis hair
pullinghimincloser. The ringingofa cellphone had
thembreaking fromthe kiss. Keeganpulled away, looking into
Vince’s eyes.
“That’s mine,”Keeganpanted.
Vince put Keegandown, repositioning the erectiontentinghis
sweats. “Okay.”
Keeganwalked to the bedroom, tryingto stayupright. The kiss
had knocked himonhis ass; he was stilltryingto form words
inhis head. He picked up his cell, lookingat the caller ID.
Rileywas calling.
“Are yougoingto answer that?”Vince leaned against the door
frame.
Keeganturned, cellphone inhand. He hit the ‘ignore’ buttonand
set the phone back down. Lookingat Vince, he crossed the
room and stood infront ofhim. He placed his hand onVince’s
bare chest, feelinghis heart poundingunder it.
“It canwait.”Keegan’s fingers trailed the strongmuscles
ofVince’s torso, damnbut the manhad one hellofa body.
Placingboth hands onVince’s pectoralmuscles, he felt a
smallshiver runthroughVince. “Whyare you nervous?”
“I’mnot.”Vince gazed over the beautifulface infront ofhim.
“No, I suppose youwouldn’t be, would you?”Keeganleaned in,
brushinghis lips across Vince’s nipple. A low groanwas
emitted fromabove.
“What are youdoing?”Vince wasn’t sure what to do at this
point. As muchas he wanted Keegan, he wasn’t goingto
pushthe manafter he’d just told himhe’d leave him alone.
“Isn’t this what youwanted?”Keegan got up onhis tip toes.
“Youwant me inbed, remember?”Keeganwhispered across
Vince’s lips.
Vince took Keegan’s arms, moving himaway. “I’mnot goingto
force youinto anything. That’s not how this works.”Vince tried
to keep his bodyincheck; he hadn’t had sexineight months. He
knew ifhe got Keegan inbed he might not be able to
controlhimself and could end up hurtingthe man.
“Yousaid inthe kitchenifI didn’t like the kiss you’d leave me
alone.”Keegan wrapped a hand inVince’s hair. “I never said I
didn’t like it.”
It took two seconds for the words to register and thenVince
pulled Keeganinto him. He was almost throwninto the door as
Keeganattacked him. His mind was goinga mile a minute. His
sweats came downand a hot mouthwas suckinghis cock.
Vince’s head hit the door as he fisted Keegan’s hair. A low
growlescaped his lips as Keegandeep throated himhungrily,
allwhile massaginghis balls. He was about to come fromthat
alone.
RippingKeeganoffhis dick, he picked himup,
throwinghimonthe bed. Keegan’s face was red, his
breathinglabored and his eyes huge. Vince took Keegan’s
sweats off, runninghis hands up his inner thighs. He stopped,
lookingdownat Keegan’s thighs; the skinwas raised and
slightlypinkish. He knew what theywere the moment he saw
them. Keeganwas alreadytryingto get out fromunderneathhim.
“Where are yougoing?”Vince pulled Keeganback down.
Keegantried to cover his thighs. “Let me go.”
“Unuh, no way.”Vince shook his head. Bendingdown, he
kissed Keegan’s inner thigh. “I’mnot lettingyourunaway.”
Keegangripped the blankets as Vince kissed and licked his
wayup to his hard, leakingcock. Vince’s mouthclosed over the
head ofhis prick and the roomspunas Keegangot the best blow
job he’d ever had. Jesus, Vince had a mouthonhim; no wonder
menand womenwanted the man.
Vince licked, sucked and teased him untilhe was
screaminginpleasure; his orgasm raced fromhimwithinminutes.
He lie onthe bed, sweatingand breathinglike he’d just run a
marathon. He opened his eyes to see Vince
lookingdownonhim. That face, the one he’d beenwatchingfor
years, was lookingat him witha smile.
Keeganreached out, hand hovering just byVince’s face. “Is this
real?”he whispered.
Vince took Keegan’s hand, placingit onhis cheek. “Yes.
Ifyoutellme there’s lube and condoms inthis house, I’llmake
youfeel how realit is.”
The smile that curved onKeegan’s lips almost did himin. He
took Keegan’s face inhis hands, kissinghim. Hands threaded
inhis hair, and thena warmbodyarched up to meet his. Vince
rutted against Keegan’s prick, their dicks slick withprecum,
glidingacross one another.
Vince slid botharms under Keegan’s back, wrappinghimup as
his lower body continuouslymoved, the pleasure risinghigher
and higher. Their mouths fused together and Vince couldn’t
get enough. He was onthe verge ofpassingout as
Keeganhooked a leg around his waist, pullinghimincloser. The
heat inthe roomhad gone up and bothof themwere sweating.
Soft sighs and low moans filled the roomas theymoved
together, both onthe precipice ofrelease. He’d beenright
Keegan’s kisses whenhe was awake were evenbetter
thanasleep.
“Keegan…”Vince breathed.
“OhGod…”Keeganbit back a cry, as his bodyexploded
underneathVince. The sheer force ofhis orgasmtook himby
surprise; he gripped Vince’s hair tighter as it hit him. A loud
groanfilled the roomand warmthspread over his stomachas
Vince came. Theybothlayshudderingas the aftershocks hit
thembothinwaves.
Vince picked his head up witha great amount ofeffort.
“Youcame twice.”
Keegancovered his face withhis hands. “I canget hard
reallyfast, and I can come a lot ina short spanoftime.”
“Well, youare goingto keep me busy,”Vince chuckled.
Keeganpeeked throughhis fingers. “What does that mean?”
“Youdon’t reallyexpect me not to want to do that again, do
you?”Vince had to laughwhenKeegan’s face turned red.
“Contraryto popular belief, I do not always have
sexwithrandompeople. Just beingwith youlike this was
enoughfor me.”
“What?”Keegantried to sit up, only to be pushed back down.
“That doesn’t meanthat I don’t want to have sexwithyou. I
meanrealsex.”
Keeganlooked at Vince’s softening dick; the damnthingwas
stillhuge. “Um, I don’t think I’ve had one that bigbefore.”
Vince bit his lip, the urge to be a smartass was right onthe tip
ofhis tongue.
Keegangiggled, lookingat Vince. “Youwant to saysomething,
don’t you?”
“Yeah, but I’mnot goingto.”Vince rolled over onhis back,
pullingKeeganinto his side. Vince looked over at Keegan’s
face. “Yousaid that onpurpose!”
“I did.”Keeganhid his face. “I’m proud ofyou; it must have
takena great deal ofcontrolnot to blurt somethingout.”Keegan
raised himselfup onhis elbow. “The thingis, I know who
youare and youhave always been anass. I guess I shouldn’t
have been
surprised.”
“I amanasshole; I’ve beenone since the age offifteen. That day,
mywhole life changed. I used to be this sweet kid.”Vince
smiled as Keeganraised a brow. “I was, really. Mymomalways
said anywoman would be luckyto have me.”
“Did she know? Youknow, that you preferred bothsexes?”
Vince nodded. “Yes, so did mydad. It reallydidn’t bother
himtoo much. Mymom cried for a bit, youknow, the whole
grandkid thing. Mysister smoothed things over telling her I
could always get a womanknocked up, just for the kid,”Vince
laughed. “I don’t know how to be nice most ofthe time.
WithNikolai it’s easy; he’s myfleshand blood. He is allI have
left inthis world.”
“That’s not true, youhave friends, too.”Keeganlooked at the
broad chest in front ofhim. Vince had a tattoo ofa woman’s
face onhis right pectoralmuscle. “Is that your sister?”
“Yes,”Vince looked at his chest. “It’s Viktoriya; I had a picture
ofher withme when I went to the tattoo parlor. Mymomis
onmy back.”
“I saw that.”Keegancrawled over Vince, settlinginbehind him.
The tattoo ofhis mother was over a bullet wound scar. Vince’s
broad back held quite the story; long, deep scars ranalonghis
back fromhis shoulders to the top ofhis buttocks. Keeganranhis
fingertip downone ofthem. “OhGod, you were whipped?”
“Yes, inprison. I swore whenI got out those menwould pay.”
The paininVince’s voice hurt Keegan’s heart. “I’msorry, for
everythingyou lost.”
Vince rolled over to face Keegan. “I haven’t spokenofthat
night inyears. I don’t know whyI’mtalkingto youabout it.”The
green-greyeyes looked into his just thenand allVince wanted
was to kiss Keeganagain. As ifsensingit, Keeganleaned inand
pressed his lips lightlyto his own.
“We should get out ofbed, because as far as I know, there is no
lube or condoms inthis house,”Keegangrinned.
“Not muchofa safe house, is it?” Vince kept his face stoic.
“Oh! Youmade a joke!”Keegan laughed, tryingto get
awayfromVince’s stronghands.
“Come here!”Vince grabbed Keegan bythe waist,
pullinghiminto his arms.
“Are yougoingto tickle me?”Keegan squirmed against Vince.
“No, but I might kiss youagain.” Vince played withKeegan’s
unrulyhair, it was so damnsoft. Everythingabout Keeganwas
soft. Althoughhe had one hellofa muscular body, his face was
like fine porcelain. The cheeks were pink fromlaughingand the
lips were slightlywet. He craved this man, God knows why.
He’d never craved anyone, yet he found himselfwanting,
evenneeding Keegan. He felt human, whentheywere together.
“What’s wrong?”Keegansearched Vince’s face. He looked
confused.
“Nothing, I was just thinking. I need to get the layofthe land
around here. I saw a store not too far away, how ’bout I go get
some… supplies…”Vince grinned, biting Keegan’s lower lip.
“I’llalso take a look around, just to make sure that ifwe are
found I know the quickest escape route.”
Keegannodded inagreement. “I know most ofthe land; I’ve
beenhere a few times. But yes,”Keeganrolled over ontop of
Vince, “we need some… things.”
Vince took Keegan’s face inhis hands. He’d knownsome good
lookingguys inhis time, but the more time he spent with
Keegan, the more beautifulthe manbecame. “OhGod, I have to
go before I fuck youright now.”
“God, that’s so romantic,”Keegan sighed, comically.
“I never said I was romantic, infact I’mnot sure I know how to
do that, either. I bought Andreia car once and anAK47 for
Christmas.”
Keeganclapped his hands together. “Oooh!! Everythinga
manwants!”
Vince scowled. “Youlook twelve right now.”
“That would make youa pedophile,” Keeganlaughed,
jumpingoffthe bed, before Vince could get him. “Come on,
I’lltellyou the code for the door.”
~~
As soonas Keeganwas sure Vince had left, he called
Rileyback. The phone was answered onthe second ringand
Rileywas alreadytalkinga mile a minute.
“Slow down, Riley,”Keeganlaughed. “What’s up?”
“How dare youignore me!”Riley laughed.
“Well, I’msorry, I was right inthe middle ofmakingout
withVince Markov.” Keeganwaited; the phone line got
extremely quiet. “Riley? Did I lose you?”Keeganheld his
phone inthe air, lookingat his signal. The shoutingfromhis
phone assured himthat Riley was indeed stillthere.
“Oh. My. GOD,”Rileyalmost screamed. “Youkissed him?”
“Technically, he kissed me.”Keegan sat downonthe bed; he
couldn’t wipe the smile offhis face evenifhe wanted to.
Rileysat downonhis bed
crossed-legged. “So? Is he what everyone says he is? Is he,
like, anawesome kisser?”
Keeganfellback onthe bed witha loud sigh. “Oh, God, Riley. It
was like nothing I’ve ever felt before. I felt it inmytoes.”
Rileycouldn’t help the smile onhis lips. He remembered what
it had beenlike to kiss Mateo, what it was still like to kiss
Mateo. “I think I know how youfeel,”Riley sighed happily.
“So, are youokaythen? Is he the asshole everyone says he is?”
“Oh, fuck yes,”Keeganlaughed until he almost choked. “But
whenhe touches me, it’s so… gentle. He touches myface
whenhe kisses me; no one’s ever done that to me.”
Keeganclosed his eyes, rememberingVince’s warmmouthonhis
own, and the feelofhis hands.
“So, did youguys … well, youknow …”
“No, we didn’t have anything. Vince is actuallyout
buyingstuffas we speak. Get this, he did the dishes last night.”
“Vince Markovdoes dishes?”Riley giggled. “Damn, don’t let
that get out. People might see himas weak.”
“Yeah, I don’t see that ever
happening. He hasn’t changed fromthe first dayI saw
himoncamera.”
“But he likes you, right? I meanifhe kissed youand touched
your face, he must like you.”
Keeganhad to chuckle, he always forgot Rileywas a lot
younger thanhe was. Sometimes talkingto Rileywas like
talkingto a teenager.
“I think so; I meanhe told me he finds me
attractive.”Keegangot offthe bed and went downthe hall; he
peeked around, makingsure he was stillalone. “He gave me
head; I came inless thantwo minutes,” Keeganwhispered.
“Damn!”Rileylaughed, fallingover on his side inhysterics. “He
is good!”
Keeganwent back to the bedroom and looked at the time. He
was goingto have to pullsome lunchtogether and get dinner
goingas well. “I have to go Riley, I have to make food. Vince
eats quite a bit.”
“Didn’t yousayyouwished he’d eat youalive?”Rileylaughed
hysterically.
“Yes, Riley,”Keeganlaughed. “I have to go, ya damnsexfiend!”
“I’mtellingMateo!”Rileylaughed harder.
“Bye, Riley!”Keeganhungup, still laughing.
Chapter Six
Vince checked out a good three miles ofland; he didn’t
want to get caught withhis pants downaround his ankles,
literally. The townofBensonhad quite a few houses, but there
was stilla lot ofdesert inbetween.
Cactus spread out ineverydirection alongwithpalo verde
trees. Wildlife was around everycorner and Vince had already
runinto javelinas. Theytook a defensive stance, clackingtheir
teeth. Vince chuckled and clacked his back, addinga low
growl, and they’d left himalone. He alreadyloved it here.
Stayinglow to the ground, Vince checked out the washnearby.
It carved a paththroughthe neighboringyards and right across a
street. The deep dip inthe road told himthat whenit flooded
youweren’t gettinghome this way.
The supplies were hangingfromhis jeans loop ina
Safewayplastic bag. The lube and condoms bounced against
his thighevery now and thenremindinghimwhat he’d be
goingback to.
Keegan.
The thought made his pulse race. Vince stopped inhis tracks; it
occurred to him that whenhe got back, he was goingto be in
bed withKeegan, havingsex. His skinbroke out ina fine
sheenofsweat.
What the hell?
Vince sat downona rock. And then what? They’d have sex; it
would be awesome as always, wellat least onhis end it would
be. He didn’t know how to have bad sex. Although, some
ofthe menhe’d slept with… Vince rolled his eyes.
He’d bottomed for Andreionly, and that was givingup a lot
ofcontrol. Vince sat back, thinkingabout sexwithKeegan. What
would happenwhentheywere done? Would theygo back to the
waythings were when theyfirst met? Would it become
something more? Did he want it to?
Vince sighed infrustration. Whywas he evencontemplatinga
relationship? Keegan didn’t want himinthat way, did he?
Maybe he was goingto be just a fuck this time. Vince didn’t
like the idea ofthat. Sure, he’d used plentyofmeninhis lifetime,
but to be the one who got used? Vince shook his head; no
fuckingway.
Vince balled his fists. What the fuck was wrongwithhim? He
needed to get his head back ontrack. Vince stood up,
surveyingthe land; ifsomeone came, he knew what to do. What
he always did. Killor be killed.
~~
Keeganwas just puttingthe food on warmwhenthe
lockingmechanisminthe house echoed downthe hall. He wiped
his hands offona toweland walked into the living room. Vince
was just shuttingthe door.
“Hey, did youget a good layofthe land?”
Vince opened his mouth, and then inhaled. “What is that?”
Keegangrinned. “Garlic chicken, with brownrice.”
Vince walked into the kitchenand lifted the lid onthe wok.
“Youmade Chinese food?”Vince smelled the delicious aroma
risingfromthe wok. “Youused teriyaki, not soy.”Vince turned
slowly.
“Yep.”Keegangrabbed some plates downfromthe cabinet.
Vince grabbed Keegan’s wrist, causingthe plates to fallonthe
kitchenfloor and shatter, shards flyingacross the room.
“Tellme the truthright now, Keegan. How longhave youhad me
under
surveillance?”
“You’re hurtingmyhand.”Keegan looked up. “Let go.”
Keegantried to step back, but the grip onhis wrist tightened.
He looked into Vince’s eyes - theywere pure black. His face
had changed; he wasn’t lookingat the Vince fromearlier. The
eyes were dead, unseeing and unfeeling.
“Stop fuckinglyingto me right now,” Vince snarled. “Garlic
chickenwithteriyaki? Youjust fucked up.”
“I said let go,”Keegankept his voice even. “I maylook weak,
Vince, but I assure youI’mnot.”
Vince hauled Keeganinto him. “Start talking.”
Keeganbrought his left hand up, meetingwithVince’s face. It
was enoughto jar himloose. He stepped back, readying
himself.
Vince rubbed his jaw. “That’s goingto cost you.”
“Bringit.”
Keegansidestepped Vince’s frontal attack, onlyto be hit witha
roundhouse kick to the face. He went flyinginto the wall,
smackinghis back hard enoughto hear a crack. Vince was
onhimagaininseconds. Keegantried to keep his right hand out
ofthe fight, but it was provingmore difficult thanhe had
imagined. Theyhit the kitchenfloor, slidingacross it and almost
hittingthe wall. Keeganturned his lower body, keepinghis
elbow securelyinfront ofhis face, wardingoff Vince’s
lethalgrip. He got Vince ina scissor hold, tryingto keep
himfrommoving.
It didn’t last.
His bodywas picked up and he was thrownonto the
diningroomtable, knocking the air fromhis lungs.
“Talk!”Vince slammed Keegan’s hand down.
Keeganbit his lip to keep from screaming.
“Fuck you!”Keeganbrought his leg up, hittingVince inthe back
ofthe head. He rolled away, fallingoffthe table. He
side-kicked Vince inthe stomachas he tried to grab himagain,
sendinghimflyinginto the stove.
“Sonofa bitch!”Vince recovered, makinga runat Keeganagain.
He plowed into Keegan’s mid-section, shovinghiminto the
wallbehind him. The plaster cracked as Keeganwas shoved
almost throughthe wall. He let out a loud wailas his hand
became sandwiched betweentwo pieces ofdrywall. His head
hit the two byfour and cement behind himand everythingwent
black.
Vince blinked. The red veillifted and he saw Keegan. In the
wall.
“OhGod, ohshit, no!”Vince pulled Keeganout carefully,
makingsure he took care inremovinghis hand.
“OhGod, what the fuck did I do?”He picked Keeganup
carefullyand took himto the bedroom. Runningto the
bathroom, he grabbed a washclothand wet it. Vince felt his
pulse goinga mile a minute. What the fuck had he done?
He sat onthe edge ofthe bed and inspected Keegan’s wounds.
The egg-sized lump onthe back ofhis head was worrying him.
His hand looked no worse for wear; the bones hadn’t re-
brokenas far as he could tell. The splints were stillinplace.
Vince rana hand thoughhis hair. His instincts kicked in and he
called the first personwho came to mind.
“Hello?”
“Reece!”Vince shouted.
“What?”Reece sat up, hearingthe panic inVince’s tone.
“What’s wrong?”
“I hurt Keegan!”
“Vince, slow downand calmdown. Okay, what
happened?”Reece was surprised at the tone ofVince’s voice.
He’d heard all about Vince’s partnership withanFBI agent and
he was guessingthat Keeganwas that agent.
“We got into a fight, he’s been watchingme, he knows what
kind offood I eat and he made me garlic chickenand —”
“Vince, stayontrack. What happened?”
“I pushed himthroughthe wall, he’s got a bigbump onhis head
and I think his fingers are okay, though, his head is what I’m
worried about and he’s stillout ofit and—”
“He’s breathing, right? How longhas he beenunconscious?”
“A few minutes now - what do I do?” Vince kept the
washclothonKeegan’s forehead. “I hurt him, Reece, ohGod.”
“Calmdown, okay?”Reece got up quietly, makinghis wayinto
the livingroom. “He’s got a concussionfor sure; youwon’t
know the extent ofthe damage untilhe wakes up. Keep aneye
onhimwhenhe does, all right? Look for slurred speech, nausea
or vomiting; ifit gets reallybad, take himto an ER right away.”
“I hurt him.”Vince trailed his fingers downKeegan’s cheek. “I
didn’t meanit, Reece. I didn’t meanit.”
Reece heard footsteps behind himand turned to see Lorenzo
wipingsleep fromhis eyes. He covered the phone. “Vince hurt
the FBI agent, he made Vince garlic chicken.”
Lorenzo put his hand out. “Give me the phone.”Lorenzo took
the phone fromhis husband. “Vince, the manknows who you
are, therefore he knows how youare.”
“I shouldn’t have hurt himlike this! What the fuck is wrongme
withme,
Lorenzo?”
“Nothingmyfriend, it is who youare. Ifthis manhas
beenwatchingyou, thenhe knows this as well,”Lorenzo said.
“I have to go, thank Reece for me. Okay?”Vince sat back a
little, as Keegan moaned, comingaround. “I have some
explainingto do.”
“Good luck.”Lorenzo handed the phone to Reece. “He thanks
you; I believe the FBI manis wakingup.”
“Nice, babe. Just great. ‘He knows who you are?’”Reece
scowled at his husband.
“What? I said somethingwrong?”
Lorenzo followed Reece back to the
bedroom. “Now you
are mad at me? What did I do?”
“Oh, for fuckingcryingout loud, Lorenzo! Remember whenwe
first met and youhit me across a roomoninstinct because I
touched youwhenyouweren’t expectingit? What was the first
thingyoudid? Apologized. And why? Because youwere
fallingfor me!” Reece slapped Lorenzo inthe head. “So you
tellVince it’s in his nature to hurt people? Since whendoes
Vince care about who he hurts? He never feels bad! Assassins!
Ugh!” Reece slammed the bathroomdoor.
“I did not think I said anythingwrong.” Lorenzo rana hand
throughhis hair.
“Ugh!”Reece shouted fromthe bathroom.
“So youthink Vince has feelings for the FBI man?”
Reece opened the door. “Well, duh!”
~~
Vince ranto get some aspirinas Keeganstarted to come
around. Keeganwas sittingup ina daze whenhe came back from
the kitchenwitha glass ofwater. Vince put the glass downonthe
nightstand and opened the bottle ofpills.
“OhGod, Keegan. I’mso sorry!” Vince put out his hand
withthe pills init. Keeganshrank back and Vince felt a stab in
his heart. Keeganwas afraid ofhimnow. “I’m so sorry, Keegan.
Please look at me.”
Keeganscooted back onthe bed, out ofVince’s reach. He
looked up, his eyes meetingVince’s and what he saw there
took himbysurprise. Vince was ina panic. He was claspingand
wringinghis hands together nervously. Keeganmoved downthe
bed a little closer to Vince.
“Whydid youdo that to me? Because I made yougarlic
chicken?”
 “I’mso sorry! I never meant to hurt you; the rage took
over. It’s just - whenI saw that youmade myfavorite food
exactly the way I like it … I knew thenthat you’ve been
watchingme for a very long time. I don’t care anymore
ifyou’ve beenwatchingme. I should never have hurt you.”
Keeganknew he should get as far awayfromVince
Markovas he could, but the look onthe man’s face was too
much. Vicious Vince Markovwas worried. He looked almost
scared. Keeganfelt his head; a large bump was pulsing.
“Ow.”
“I brought yousome pills and water.” Vince grabbed the glass,
almost droppingit. He realized his hands were shaking. What
the fuck?
Keegangrabbed the glass before it fell. Vince was seriously
freakingout. He took the pills and swallowed a biggulp of
water. “You’re gettinga black eye,”Keegan motioned to
Vince’s face.
“Really?”Vince stood up lookingin the mirror. “Huh…I am.
That’s some left hook yougot.”
“I’mambidextrous.”Keeganlie back onthe bed, staringat the
ceiling.
Vince came back to the bed. “Is your other hand okay? God,
I’msorry—”
“You’ve said that.”Keegansat back up; the roomspunand he
felt Vince’s arms come around him.
“Whoa, take it easy, okay?”
Keeganfocused onVince’s face.
“Youlook scared,”he whispered.
“Because I am. I didn’t meanto hurt you. Are
youallright?”Vince palmed Keegan’s face.
“You… are scared?”Keegan frowned. “Youdon’t get scared, or
cryor feel…”
“I amscared whenit comes to you.” Vince stopped. Did he just
saythat? Yes, yes he did. Did he meanit? Lookinginto
Keegan’s eyes, he realized he did.
“Youlike me,”Keegansing-songed.
“Ohno.”Vince stood up and grabbed the bottle ofpills. Inhis
rushto get aspirinhe had grabbed the Vicodin.
“Great, now I drugged him,”Vince sighed, exasperated. He
looked over at Keeganonthe bed. “Are youallergic to
anything?”
“Nope.”Keeganlooked at his hand and wiggled it. “Cooool.”
“Okay, how about I put youinthe shower? I don’t need
youpassingout again.”
“It’s not myfirst head injury,”Keegan giggled, fallingover. “I
was shot, stabbed, burned… and some other stuff.”
“What do youknow, Keegan? What does Nardozziwant
fromyou?”
Keeganlooked up. “The kids ofhis enemies. I know where
theyare.”
Vince’s mouthdropped open. “Oh, God. Nardozzi tortured
you?”Vince stood up; he had to get Keeganthe fuck out ofhere
and now. “Youshould have told me! I would never have
brought youinto this! Jesus Christ!”Vince grabbed his phone.
“What are youdoing?”Keegan attempted to stand.
“CallingDamon. Youcan’t be with me. This was a bad idea!”
“Fuck you!”Keegansmacked the phone out ofVince’s hand. It
hit the floor and slid to a stop bythe door. “I’mhere, it’s too
late now.”
Vince grabbed Keeganbyhis shoulders. “Don’t youget it? He
thinks you’re myfiancé! Plus he wants youfor what you know!
He could killyouthis time ifhe doesn’t get what he wants. He
will killyoubecause he thinks you’re mine!”
“AmI?”Keegancocked his head to the side, lookingat Vince’s
panicked face.
“Are youwhat?”Vince blinked, lookingat Keegan.
“AmI yours?”
“Really? This is what youwant to talk about? Do younot
understand what I’m saying? IfNardozzigets his hands
onyouit’s over for you, Keegan. I can’t let that happen. I
won’t.”
“You made the choice to involve me.” Keeganpointed a finger
at Vince.
“I didn’t know! Youshould have told me fromdayone that
Nardozziwas the one who did this to you!”Vince grabbed
Keegan’s hand, shovingKeegan’s fingers in his face. “Youwant
this again?”
Keeganyanked his armback. “You think that’s the worst
ofit?”Keegantore his shirt off. “Take a good long look
Markov!” Keeganturned around, showingVince his back. He
heard the intake ofbreathbehind him. “Yes, Vince. I know what
canhappen, believe me.”
“That’s it.”Vince went to grab his phone. “I amcallingDamon;
he’llsend Marco and Antonio to come take youout ofhere
safely.”
“No.”Keeganturned around.
“No? Ohthe hellyes, Keegan.”
“We had a deal! I do this withyou, youmeet withmyboss.
Those were the terms ofour agreement!”
“Fuck the agreement!”Vince roared. “I’llmeet withyour boss; I
don’t give a flying fuck! But youare not stayinghere!”
Keeganpoked Vince inthe chest with his good finger.
“Youcan’t tellme what to do. I amanagent withthe FBI and
youare not my boss. As you’ve said, I’monmyownwiththis
one.”
“What part ofyou could be tortured again, did younot
understand?”Vince leaned downinto Keegan’s face.
“So, now youdoubt your abilities? You’re THEVince Markov,
remember? Killer and assassinextraordinaire; youcando
anything.”Keeganwalked over to the bed, floppingdown.
“This is not funny—”Vince’s phone rangover bythe door. He
looked at Keegan, who was lookingat the phone as well. Vince
dove for it, barelybeatingKeeganto it. “Hello?”Vince blurted.
“Pops? Youhavingsex? Yousound winded,”Nikolaichuckled.
“Nope, just tryingto keep a little asshole safe; he’s fightingme
onit.”Vince narrowed his eyes at Keegan, who raised an
eyebrow at him. “What’s up, Nikolai?”Vince looked directlyat
Keegan, enunciatinghis son’s name.
“Um… okay… I finallygot through the files. Agent
KeeganRipleywas kidnapped froma stakeout withhis partner,
Trevor Spence. Nardozzitortured Ripleyuntilhe was almost
dead. He killed Ripley’s partner, Dad, right infront ofhim. The
statement Ripley gave? It’s like a horror novel.”The line was
quiet and Nikolaichecked his phone’s signal. “Dad?”
“I heard you; Keeganis here withme now. I’mtryingto get
himto go home. Nardozzithinks he’s myfiancé.”
“Holyshit, Dad, youneed to get him out ofthere!”
Vince held the phone awayfromhis ear. “Did youhear that,
Keegan? Even Nikolaiknows this is a bad idea.”
“It’s mydecision.”Keeganstood up, swayinga little, thencaught
his balance. He looked downat Vince onthe floor. “I’mgoing to
bed.”
Vince waited untilKeeganhad left the room. “Nik, I have to go,
I kinda threw Keeganinto a wallearlier and now I have to keep
aneye onhim. Do me a favor and call Damon; let himknow the
deal, okay?”
“Willdo, Dad. Watchthe FBI guy, and I meanlike close.”
“I will, love you.”
“Love you.”
Vince snapped his phone shut and stood up. He went downthe
hallto Keegan’s roomand stopped inthe doorway. Keegan was
onthe bed inthe fetalposition, holdinghis hand.
“Keegan…”
“I’mnot changingmymind, Vince. Youbrought me into this;
youevencalled me a coward, remember?”
“I didn’t know then!”Vince went to the bed, sittingonthe edge.
Keeganwas shiveringa little and Vince pulled the blanket over
him. “Are youallright?”
“Myhead hurts, the painpills didn’t do shit for
me.”Keeganstretched his legs out, wincingat the crack inhis
back.
Vince took his shoes offand climbed into the bed. He
positioned himselfbehind Keeganand gripped his shoulders.
“What are youdoing?”Keegan looked over his shoulder.
“Just close your eyes, okay? I won’t hurt you, I
promise.”Vince moved his thumbs inslow circles, makinghis
waydown Keegan’s back.
“OhGod, that feels good,”Keegan sighed.
Vince leaned over, kissingKeegan’s shoulder softly. “I’msorryI
hurt you. I’m afraid to let yousleep; shouldn’t I be keeping
youawake?”
Keegansmiled, leaninghis head back to look at Vince. “Don’t
youknow the human body? I know youstudied anatomyto
make yourselfa more efficient killer.”
“I’mnot a doctor,”Vince raised a brow. “I canget byonmyown,
I know a few things, but whenit comes to this?”Vince looked
at Keegan’s beautifulface. “I should have never…”Vince
shook his head, massagingagain.
“So that’s youwhenthe rage hits.”
“That was mild.”Vince tried to smile.
“Wellholyshit, remind me never to piss
youoff,”Keegangrinned.
“I amsorry, I’m… not used to this.”
“What?”Keeganasked.
“I never sayI’msorry, I never regret things I do… I don’t know
what else to sayto make this right.”
“Just keep doingwhat you’re doing,” Keegansighed, lettinghis
muscles relax.
After a few minutes, it became evident that Keeganhad
fallenasleep. The slow breathingrelaxed Vince a bit. He moved
slowly, gettingout ofthe bed. Makinghis way to the kitchen, he
grabbed another glass of water and the right pills. As he
turned, he saw the Safewaybagonthe floor. Vince picked it up
and took it back to the bedroom. After puttingthe contents
inthe drawer he got back into the bed, pullingKeeganinto
himgently. There was a soft sigh, and thenKeegan relaxed
inhis embrace.
“Vince…”Keegansighed, nestling into him.
Vince looked downinto Keegan’s face and anache formed
inhis chest. He’d lost it and almost killed the man. Vince
kissed Keegan’s forehead and lie back, staringat the ceiling.
“I’mright here,”he whispered.
~~
Damonlooked out the window ofthe jet. He knew Vince
would be furious ifhe knew theywere flyingto Arizona. With
Nardozzicame unexpected surprises and Damondid not want
Vince caught offguard in a townhe was unfamiliar with.
Nardozzi’s operatives were lookingeverysecond of everyday;
now that theyknew Vince was involved withsomeone,
theywouldn’t stop.
“I think he trulycares for him, Damon.”
Damonturned to see Antonio looking at him.
“Si?”
“I saw the wayhe looked at the agent. He cares,”Antonio
nodded.
Damonsighed, runninghis hands over his face.
“Ifanythingwere to happento him, then…”
“It would not be good,”Antonio said.
“It would be horrific, Antonio. As muchas Vince has tried to
become human, there is always his feralside to contend with,”
Damonsaid.
Marco came downthe aisle with drinks. Settingthemdown, he
took the seat opposite Damon.
“Where are we going?”
“We are landinginSierra Vista; it is about thirtyminutes
fromVince’s location.”
“I would ask how youknow that but…”Marco winked.
“Youallhave trackingdevices onyou
somewhere.”Damonsmiled as Antonio looked at his watch.
“No. Inyour body, Antonio.”
“I have always knownhow youfeel about us, Damon. We are
like your own children, Vince more so I think. Youraised
himfroma boyand into a man; youwatched himbecome what
he is today.”
Damonsighed, sadly. “And now he mayhave found love,
onlyto lose it ifwe can’t stop Nardozzi.”
“It willbe good to see Vince trulyin love.”Marco sat back,
sippinghis drink.
Damonlooked out the window. “Yes, it will.”
~~
Vince was wokenup bya loud rumbling; a stormwas
brewingoutside. The whole house shook as thunder rolled
across the valley. Lightningilluminated the roomand Vince
realized Keeganwas lookingat him.
“Are youallright?”Vince whispered, palmingKeegan’s
face. Keeganmoved closer to him, his hand exploringVince’s
face. He closed his eyes as Keegan’s fingers trailed over his
cheeks, makingtheir wayacross his lips. “Keegan…”
“Kiss me, Vince.”Keeganthreaded his fingers into Vince’s
hair.
“I’mnot sure…”Vince looked at the angelic face lookingback
at him. How could he? After what he’d done? And moreover,
what right did he have? He’d hurt himto the point that he’d
almost killed him. He was a fuckingmonster,
anunfeelingshellofa man. Keegandeserved somethingbetter
thanthat, somethingbetter thanhim.
“I don’t think we should, Keegan.”
“Please?”Keeganpulled Vince down to him. “I want youto
touchme.”Keegan closed his eyes as Vince’s warmmouth
covered his, the ache inhis bodygone bythe touchofVince’s
hands. Archinghis back, he pressed himselfcloser to Vince.
Warmth flowed throughhis bodyas Vince’s hands slid down,
cuppinghis ass. His sweats came down and thenVince’s naked
bodywas onhim, touchinghim, leavingkisses across his face,
his chest, his stomach. His whole bodyprickled withpleasure
as Vince kissed and licked every part ofhim. He wanted Vince,
inside him, fillinghim.
“I want you,”Keeganmoaned, grippingthe sheets intight fists.
“OhJesus,”Vince looked downat Keegan, naked, spread before
him, askingfor him. His mind was screamingno, but when
Keegangripped his prick, Vince lost it. He reached for the
drawer, runninghis hand inside lookingfor the supplies. He
found the lube and opened the cap.
“Hangona sec.”Vince tried to find the condoms, but was pulled
back down. Keeganwas allover him, writhingagainst him and
moaning. Damn, it was just too much.
“Wait… just…”
“Now… please…”Keeganspread his legs out, invitingVince
in. He hadn’t had sexinover a year and goddamnhe wanted it
now, needed it now and he needed it with Vince. Ifhe was
takenagain, he wanted to remember this night. He fumbled,
lookingfor Vince’s hot leakingprick and the lube. His fingers
pried it fromVince and he slicked Vince’s cock fromshaft to tip
before Vince could argue. Keeganpositioned himselfand
pushed Vince inside him. The painwas immediate and he cried
out.
“Keegan!”Vince tried to pullout, to no avail. Keeganhad a vice
grip onhim. “I’m bare!”
“I know,”Keeganbreathed out. “Oh God, yes…fuck, that feels
so good.”Keegan moved his legs, pushingdownonVince’s
massive size. The heat tore throughhim, spiralingup his spine
and into his shoulders. He’d never felt like this duringsex. He
wanted more and he wanted it deeper, faster. He opened his
eyes to see the look ofshock on Vince’s face.
“Please…”Keeganpulled Vince back downto his lips.
“Keegan… fuck…”Vince’s heart was poundingagainst his
ribs, the feelof Keegan- he’d never forget it as longas he lived.
He worked his hips slowly, sinkinghis erectiondeeper and
deeper into Keegan’s smoothtunnel.
His arms shook as he tried to hold back fromslamminginto
him; he wanted it to last. He wanted Keeganto have that. He
drew back slowly, feelingmuscles contract around him, and
pushed back in. Keeganhalfsighed, halfmoaned inVince’s
mouthand that alone almost pushed himover the edge. He kept
up his slow, torturous rhythm, his bodyshaking witheveryin-
stroke, his lips firmlyattached to Keegan’s, their tongues
meeting, entwining. Vince took Keegan’s hands and placed
them above his head; he laced his fingers with Keegan’s good
hand as he drew back slowly, slidingindeeper onhis in-stroke
and filling Keeganto the hilt. The stormoutside barely
registered as Vince made love to Keegan. And that’s what it
was; this was different in everyway.
Keeganwas grippingVince’s fingers, movingwithhim,
kissinghimlike he needed himto breathe. It was so
overwhelming; the more theymoved, the longer Vince wanted
it to last. He never wanted to stop, he never wanted to let go.
His mind was screamingto pullout, get awayas fast as he
could, get awayfromKeegan, fromKeegan’s soft skin, his
warmmouth, his taste. The conflicting emotions were
raginginside and allVince could do was hangon, move his
bodyinto Keegan’s and savor the sweet taste ofthe
manbeneathhim. His orgasmwas building and Vince fought it.
Keegan’s hips arched to meet his, skinonskin, sweat
pouringfrom themboth. The lightningoutside illuminated the
roomfor just a split second, but it was enough
- he had gottena glimpse ofKeeganinthe throes ofpassion.
Keegan’s hair was soaked, his eyes closed, breathinglabored,
his bodymovingin time withVince’s. It was the most beautiful
scene Vince had ever seenand his heart seized inhis chest. Was
this what it felt like to trulymake love to someone? Vince
sucked in a breathas Keegantightened around his dick,
squeezinghis member; his fingers tightened in Keegan’s hand.
Keegan’s tongue was searching, beggingfor more and Vince
dove in deeper, fullytastingand groaned.
*
“Vince…”Keegangripped the fingers tighter, openinghis
mouthwider, allowing Vince to take allofhim. The insistent
tongue was searchinghim, exploringhim. It was the most
sensualkiss he’d ever had; Keegan didn’t know whether to
close his eyes or keep themopen. He wanted to see Vince as
wellas feelhim. Everyin-stroke took his breath away; Vince’s
massive size tore throughhim, leavingheat behind inits wake.
Their bodies moved insync, perfectlymolded together,
movingwithpurpose. Inallhis years, no one had ever made love
to him, not like this. Vince knew instinctivelywhat made
himmoan, what took his breathawayand he used it to his
advantage. Fingers trailed his jaw as the warm mouthlicked a
pathacross his lips, diving inside again.
God help him, he couldn’t stop moaningand whimperingno
matter how hard he tried. A hand caressed his thigh, sliding
lower to squeeze his ass. Vince thrust indeep and the
damburst. “Vince…ohGod…I’m coming…”Keegancried out,
his orgasm racingup his chest inquick bursts. The loud
cryfromVince shocked himand his bodywas warmed
inaninstant as Vince’s release flowed inside him.
Vince collapsed ontop ofhim, breathinghard. Keeganwrapped
his arms around the man, lovingthe feelofVince inhis arms. He
knew the kind ofmanVince was. The thought ofbeinga one-
night stand was not somethinghe wanted to contemplate. He
didn’t know how to ask the question; worse, he didn’t know
ifhe wanted the answer. Keeganwent withhis gut.
“No wonder youget laid so much,” Keeganbreathed.
Vince’s head snapped up.
“I’ve never done that, I don’t…” Vince struggled for words.
“Make love?”Keeganmoved a stray, sweatystrand ofhair
fromVince’s forehead. He looked almost vulnerable.
“Nothingscares you, remember?”Keegankissed Vince’s
eyelids.
Vince took Keegan’s face inhis hands.
“I want youto go back home, it isn’t safe withme, Keegan. IfI
had knownwhat Nardozzihad done to you, I would have never
agreed to this.”
“It doesn’t matter where I go now, he knows I’malive.
Whentheyfound me, the Bureaumade it look like I had died.
He knows now that I didn’t. He’llnever stop.”
Vince braced himselfonone arm, lookingdownat Keegan. His
face was still perfect, evenwitha black eye. “Oh, yes he will,
because I’mgoingto killhim.”
Keegansmiled, Vince was stillburied inhis ass. “Canwe sleep
like this?”
Vince chuckled, movingout of Keeganslowly. “I weightoo
muchto sleep on top ofyou; besides, youneed rest.”Vince took
Keeganinhis arms, his fingers running throughthe soft hair.
“I like that, it’s relaxing.”
“Close your eyes,”Vince whispered, kissingKeegan’s
forehead. “We’lltalk inthe morning, okay?”
“‘K.”
Vince layawake for hours after Keeganhad gone to sleep. He
had to find a wayto keep Keegansafe and killNardozziat the
same time. There was no wayinhellDario Nardozziwas goingto
get a chance at Keegan Ripleyagain.
~~
Keeganopened his eyes to see a woman’s face staringback
at him. Vince’s tattoo ofhis sister was right inhis face. Vince
had beautifulcopper-colored skin, and even withthe scars the
manwas stillbreathtaking. Longblack lashes that
anywomanwould kill for hid his beautifuleyes. Keegantouched
Vince’s soft lips withthe tip ofhis finger; he followed the
curves, rememberingwhat it was like to have Vince’s lips
onhis own, his hands onhis body… Vince makinglove to him.
Vince’s arms tightened around him and Keeganrelaxed
inthe warmembrace. He should hate Vince for kickinghis ass
but somehow he couldn’t. He’d knownwho Vince was fromthe
beginning; years of surveillance had shownhimVince never
strayed fromhis true nature. Untilnow.
Stillbeinginbed withhimwas somethingVince never did.
Keeganknew that duringanysexVince had withstrangers he not
onlyprotected himself, but he never spent the night. Infact,
duringthe times he had heard conversations betweenVince and
his son, Keeganhad learned a lot more thanhe wanted to know
about Vince’s sexlife. He’d also beenprivyto the sextalk
betweenVince and Nikolai; Vince was nothingbut honest
withhis son. Keeganhad to smile; Nikolai was verycurious.
 Strongarms pulled himcloser and Keeganwrapped his arms
around Vince. Last night had beeneveryfantasycome true.
Well, except for his trip into the wall. He’d been
watchingVince for so long, he should have expected it.
Keeganfurrowed his brow. Vince had looked… betrayed?
They’d been intimate onlyhours before and Vince had opened
up to him.
Oh, no. The reasonfor Vince’s outburst started to take
forminKeegan’s mind. He’d opened up, shared a part ofhis life
and Keeganhad lied to himbynot admitting how muchhe
actuallyknew. Keegansighed heavily. As strongas Vince
Markovwas, he was vulnerable. The arms around him
tightened marginallyand warmlips brushed his forehead.
Vince’s hands slid lower downhis back, cuppinghis ass.
“Good morning.”Vince ranhis nose throughKeegan’s soft
hair. Damn, the man smelled delicious.
“Morning.”Keeganlooked up, pressinga kiss to Vince’s
lips. “How did you sleep?”
“Not good, I spent a few hours trying to figure out how to get
youto change your mind.” “Well, kickingmyass won’t do it,”
Keegansnickered.
“That’s not funny,”Vince scowled. “I
still feellike shit for that.”
“I shouldn’t have beensurprised, you
are Vince Markov.”
Vince rolled over onhis side. He
palmed Keegan’s face; the pad ofhis thumb
gentlycaressingKeegan’s bruised cheek. “I didn’t meanto do
this; I hope you
know I won’t hurt youever again.”
Keeganlooked into Vince’s eyes and
saw the regret there.
“I know youwon’t.”Keegantook a
deep breath. “I’ve beenwatchingyousince I
joined the Bureau. Theyput me on
surveillance ofyoufromdayone.”Keegan realized he’d shut his
eyes duringhis word blurt. He opened themto see Vince
smilingat
him.
“Whyare yousmiling? I just told you
I’ve beenwatchingyou, listeningto you, for
over tenyears.”
“I had mysuspicions; I just didn’t
want youto lie to me about it.”
“Oh, so I could have avoided allthis?”
Keeganmotioned to his face. Vince winced
and Keegantook his face inhis hands. “I’m
sorry, I shouldn’t have said that. I know how
bad youfeel; it’s a foreignfeeling, isn’t it?” “What?”Vince took
Keegan’s hand,
kissingthe brokenfingers.
“Feelingremorse for somethingyou
did.”Keeganclosed his eyes againas Vince
lovinglykissed his cheek, thenhis eye. Vince kissed the raised,
colored skin
ofKeegan’s eye.
“Yes, it does feelstrange to feelbad
for somethingI did. I spent so muchtime
turningeverythingoff, that whenI came to my
senses last night…”Vince shook his head,
closinghis eyes. “I can’t believe I did that to
you.”
“I can. I should have knownbetter
thanto tryfightingsomeone who doesn’t feel
pain.”
“Youhave anawesome right and left
hook,”Vince chuckled, kissingKeegan’s
nose. “And I’msure ifI did feelpain, myribs
would be killingme fromthe kick to them.” Keeganrolled his
eyes.
“Stop tryingto make me feelbetter.” “Youcanfight, Keegan.
Youjust need to learnsome techniques to avoid getting
hit.”
“Youmeanthe Bureaudidn’t teach
me right?”Keeganfeigned a look ofshock. “Shut up,”Vince
chuckled, pulling
Keegancloser. “Theydidn’t teachyouwhat I
know.”
“So you’re goingto teachme what
youknow?”Keeganraised a brow. “Isn’t that
some trade secret youpassed onto your
son?”
Vince pulled Keeganto his lips. “Yes, but I think youneed to be
taught.”
“I like youas a teacher.”Keegan
wrapped his arms around Vince’s neck as he
was pulled into a kiss.
Vince wrapped Keeganup inhis arms, deepeningthe kiss. Jesus,
he couldn’t get enoughofhim, he wanted Keeganallthe time.
The taste ofthe man- Vince groaned as Keegansearched his
mouthslowly. Damn, the mancould kiss. His hands gripped
Keegan’s ass, pullinghimas close as he could get him. The kiss
became more passionate as
theybothtried to get closer to the other. Keeganwas a damned
aphrodisiac;
he couldn’t help but want the manevery
second oftime theyspent together. Sleeping
withKeeganhadn’t lessened his want for him.
Infact, it’d done quite the opposite. His plan
had backfired and now he wanted Keeganall
the time. Theybroke fromthe kiss, both
breathinghard. Vince nipped at Keegan’s
lower lip, suckingit inand lettingit slide out
slowly.
“Hungry?”
Keegangiggled. “Oh, yes.”
“For food, pervert.”Vince pulled
Keeganontop ofhim. “How do youfeel?”
“I’mfine.”Keeganlooked at Vince’s
face as a smallsmile played at his lips. “Oh,
youmeanhow do I feel? Well, I think you
might have split me inhalf. Other thanthat, I
feelokay.”
Vince’s brows furrowed. “I’mclean, I
get tested allthe time. I would have never—”
“Shhh,”Keeganput his fingers over
Vince’s lips. “I know that. I’mclean, too.” Vince felt the back
ofKeegan’s head.
“The lump is muchsmaller this morning.” “So is your
dick,”Keeganlaughed,
rollingoffofVince. “I’llgo make breakfast.” Vince looked at the
clock. “It’s brunchand no wayinhell. Youeither get in
the shower or stayinbed.”
Keeganstood, puttinghis hands onhis
hips.
“Is that anorder?”
“Please?”Vince smiled seductively. “Oh, that’s so
wrong,”Keegan
sighed, grabbingcleanunderwear fromthe
drawer. “Fine, I’llgo shower.”He winced, as
he tried to walk. “Damn, how bigare you?” “I thought
youknew allthat.”Vince lie
onhis back pullingthe sheet down; just
lookingat Keegannaked had his dick rising.
“Jesus,”Keeganwhispered. “It’s like,
huge.”
Vince looked downat his dick. “He’s
not evenfullyawake yet.”Vince motioned to
Keegan’s dick. “You’re not so small
yourself.”
Keeganraised a brow. “Please, I’m
like, almost eight.”Keeganrummaged through
the drawers. “What size underwear do you
need? We have boxers, briefs or boxer
briefs.”
Vince sat up onhis elbow. “What do I
wear?”
“Boxer briefs, usuallyblack,”Keegan
stopped and turned. A knowingsmile played
across Vince’s lips. “Asshole.”
“I love how youknow what kind of
underwear I own. That makes it easier to go
Christmas shoppingfor me.”Vince got out of
bed, grabbingthe boxers fromKeegan. “I’ll
take these for now. Shower, or back inthere.”
Vince pointed to the bed.
Keeganstood, his jaw hangingopen. “Christmas shopping?”
“Youknow, I’mgoingto put
somethinginyour mouthifyouleave it open
like that.”Vince spanked Keegan’s ass gently.
“Shower.”
Vince chuckled, as Keeganalmost
walked into the wall. He took himbythe
shoulders and maneuvered himinto the
bathroom. Turningthe water on, he waited for
Keeganto be safelyinside before makinghis
wayto the kitchen.
Vince started brunch. He looked
throughthe fridge to find the ingredients he
needed. A beepingsound was comingfrom
somewhere and Vince followed it to Keegan’s
phone.
“Your phone is ringing!”Vince
shouted.
“Grab it, please!”
Vince shrugged his shoulders, flipping
the phone open.
“Hello?”
Rileylooked at his phone - it was
Keegan’s number. The conversationbetween
himand Keegancame to mind whenhe
realized who’d answered the phone.
“Vince?”
“Yep, who’s this?”
“RileyEsposito, where’s Keegan?” “He’s inthe shower; I think
he’s
almost done. Do youwant me to take himthe
phone?”
Rileysnickered.
“Well, um, ifI’ve called at an
inconvenient time…”
Vince dragged his fingers throughhis
hair, lookingdownthe hall.
“No, I was just makingKeegansome
food.”
“Well, okay. Canyoujust let him
know I called? I just wanted to check inon
him.”Rileybit his lip to keep fromasking
questions.
“I’lldo that, Riley.”Vince realized the
shower water had stopped running. “I think
he’s done, yousure youdon’t want me to
take himthe phone?”
“Well, ifhe’s not tied up,”Riley
covered his mouth, hidinghis laughter. “Riley?”Vince smiled,
leaningagainst
the wall.
“Yes?”
“You’re dyingto ask me shit, aren’t
you?”Inthe time he’d spent withRiley Esposito, whichhadn’t
beenmuch, he’d
gottena verygood insight into the man. Rileyexhaled, laughing.
“AmI that transparent?”
“It’s part ofmyjob to read people.”
Vince walked downthe hall; Keeganwas in
front ofthe mirror lookingat his face. Vince
closed his eyes; it stillbothered himto see
Keeganlike that, knowinghis ownhands had
caused it.
“Keegan? Riley’s onthe phone.” Keeganturned, puttinghis
hand out. “Did he grillyou?”
“Not really.”Vince leaned over,
kissingKeegan’s forehead. “I’llbe inthe
kitchen.”Vince closed the door and made his
wayback downthe hallto the kitchen. Part of
himwanted to hear the conversationbetween Keeganand Riley.
He wanted to know if
Keeganfelt the same wayhe had last night. Vince turned the
burner on, throwing
sausage into the pan. Did Keeganfeelthe
same way? God knows he’d never felt like
that duringsex. As muchas it pained himto
think it, he’d never opened up to Andrei
enoughto feelanything duringsex. Orgasm,
sure, but realemotion? No. Oh, the kisses
were good, the sexwas great, Andreiwas an
extremelyattentive lover. But he’d never felt
like he did last night. His whole bodyhad
shuddered last night at his release; ina way,
he’d marked Keegan.
Vince smiled at the thought ofKeegan
Ripley, mild-mannered FBI agent and Vince
Markov, cold-blooded killer. Vince frowned
at the thought. It’d never work, would it? What ifit did? And
again, whywas he contemplatingthis shit? Vince snorted,
putting bread inthe toaster. Keegan’s face last night, that’s
why. The look ofunadulterated passion, ofwant and need
onKeegan’s face, the way he kissed, touched, had arched into
himand
givenhimselffully– it had affected Vince. “Youlook like
youjust found out
there’s a gunshow intownand theycarrybig
ass knives, too.”
Vince jumped at the sound of
Keegan’s voice. “Huh?”
“That smile onyour face.”Keegan
cocked his head to the side. “What were you
thinkingjust now?”
“Truth?”Vince asked.
Keegannodded.
“How great last night was,”Vince
said. Fuck it.
Keegangrinned, his face heating.
“Really? I mean, I know you’ve slept witha
lot ofmenand women…”
“It wasn’t like that, Keegan.”Vince
moved slowlytowards Keegan. Evenafter
makinglove to the manlast night, he wasn’t
sure ifKeeganfelt safe withhim. “What we
did was different.”Keeganstepped toward
himand Vince slowlyclosed the gap. “The
wayyoukissed me, touched me, no one’s
ever affected me like that.”
“Really?”Keeganwhispered. “You’re
not just… sayingthat to get me to sleep with
youagain, are you? This isn’t just some line? I
know I’myounger thanyou, and yeah, I’m
naïve whenit comes to stufflike this, but don’t
fuck withmyhead, okay?”
“I don’t want to fuck withyouat all.”
Vince took Keegan’s good hand, rubbingthe
soft skinwithhis thumb. “I’mjust as naïve as
youare right now, I… I’ve never dealt with
this kind ofshit before.”
“Shit?”Keegangrinned.
Vince blew out a frustrated sigh. “You
know what I mean. I was fine untilyoukissed
me the other night. I’ve beenkissed by
hundreds ofmenand women, but you…”
Vince shook his head. “Yougive yourselfto it;
it’s like youtransferred what youwere feeling
to me.”Vince traced Keegan’s lips withthe
tip ofhis finger. “I’ve never wanted to kiss
someone so badly; everytime I look at you, I
want to taste you.”
Keeganbacked awayquickly. “Oh
God…”
“What? What is it?”Vince stepped
closer. “I’mnot goingto hurt you, Keegan. I
promised it would never happenagain.”
“I’mstillthere,”Keeganwhispered,
closinghis eyes. “OhGod, I’mstillthere.” Vince moved quickly.
He turned the
burner offand took Keeganbyhis shoulders. “Look at me,
openyour eyes.”Vince
pulled Keegan’s face up to his own.
“You’re not stillinthat chair, allright?
I know what you’ve beenthrough- youcreate
a fantasyworld to survive the torture. I know.
I’ve beenthere. I maynot feelpain, but I
know I did the same thinginprison. This is
real, Keegan. I’mstandinghere infront of
you, we are at the safe house inBenson.”
Vince leaned in, kissingKeegansoftly. “It’s
real, I promise. Whenthis is allover, I’m goingto take youback
to that roomand
make yousee it, understand?”
Keegannodded.
“Y-y-yes.”Keeganlooked at the
concernonVince’s face. “Youare what got
me throughit,”Keeganwhispered. He knew
his hands were shakingbut he couldn’t stop.
“I dreamt ofyoumakinglove to me, wanting
me. I’ve wanted youfromthe moment your
picture slid across mydesk. I couldn’t wait to
get to work, just so I could hear your voice,
see your face. WhenNardozzicaptured me,
allI could think ofwas that one dayI would
see youinperson. Onthe third day, I made
that a realityinmyhead. Youwanted me, we
couldn’t get enoughofeachother and for a
briefperiod oftime, I felt no pain.”Keegan
exhaled, waitingfor Vince to respond to his
confession.
Vince’s heart pounded his ribcage.
Keegan’s admissionhit himhard, he was
confessingeverything.
“This is real.”Vince took Keegan’s
hand, pullinghiminto his warmembrace. “And
I do want you, Keegan. I want youmore than
I have ever wanted anything.”And withthat,
Vince closed the precious inches between
their lips, givingKeeganand himselfwhat they
were bothlongingfor.
Chapter Seven
Ifthere was one thingVince Markov never wanted, it was to
feel. Yet he felt everything- Keegan’s hands clawingat his
back, tryingdesperatelyto remove his shirt, Keegan’s bare
skinonhis own, that soft, velvet smoothskin, brushingagainst
his and makinghimshiver. He wanted this man, and not just for
one or two nights. He wanted Keeganalways. Theymoved
downthe hall, clothingfallingto the floor, lips never leaving for
more thana split second. Keegan’s mouth opened to his,
surrendering. His hands threaded into his hair and allthe while
Vince fought to stayupright as his legs shook. His hands
lightlytouched Keegan’s face, keeping Keeganclose to him.
God, he wanted this man.
The bed was magicallythere and Vince lowered
Keeganonto it gently. He hovered above him, braced onone
arm. Vince let his fingertips trace the contours of Keegan’s
face; his lips were slightlypink from kissing, his cheeks
flushed fromstubble burn and excitement. His half-lidded
expression drove Vince insane withdesire. His hand trailed
downthe soft curves ofKeegan’s abs, movingup and
downinslow, measured movements elicitinggoose bumps inits
wake.
Keeganreached for the drawer, openingit. He pulled the
lube out, handingit to Vince. “Make love to me, Vince.”
Those five words slammed into his chest and he reeled
fromthe emotionaltollit took onhim. Keeganwas so open, so
bare, he was so innocent. He clicked the lid open, droppinga
dollop onto his hand. Slickinghis dick generously, he reached
downand gently turned Keeganover onhis stomach. He spread
Keegan’s legs out, wrappinganarm under Keegan’s waist and
hitchinghis ass higher.
Confident that Keeganwould stayin the position, Vince
went to work massaging the pale, creamyglobes. At a soft
moanfrom KeeganVince increased the pressure,
spreadingKeegan’s cheeks wider and revealingthe delicious
pink hole waitingfor him, twitchingwithneed. Vince slid his
hand betweenKeegan’s legs, grippinghis turgid prick and
givinghima slow up-downtwist. He kissed one cheek and
slowlylicked a pathto the other. Keegan’s dick jumped inhis
hand and Vince kept the same slow stroke as his tongue
flicked Keegan’s tight hole.
“Oh, s-s-shit,”Keegangroaned. Warmthflowed inside his
tunnelas Vince fucked himwithhis tongue. His chest
constricted witheveryexpert flick, his moans louder
witheverythrust. Keegansqueezed his eyes shut as Vince
opened himup more, divinginas his hand kept its continuous
slow stroke onhis cock. Keeganactuallyfelt faint, the pleasure
Vince was givingwas almost too muchand whenVince slid into
himhe finally felt whole. Strongarms wrapped himclosely and
a warmmouthtraveled across his shoulders, licking,
suckingand markinghim.
Keeganwhimpered as Vince slid in again, rakingacross his
sweet spot. Keegan leaned his head back, meetingwithVince’s
mouth. The kiss was hungry, frantic and passionate allat once.
Ifhe was stillinthat room, this was the best fantasyyet. Vince
was murmuringinhis ear how beautifulhe was, how he couldn’t
get enoughofhim. It was everythingKeeganhad dreamed ofand
more. The fullness left himand Keeganmoaned. He was
gentlyturned back over and Vince took his leg, proppingit over
his shoulder.
“I want to see youwhenI make love to you. Is that
okay?”Vince readied himself againwithlube, waitingfor
Keegan.
“I want that, I want to know it’s me you’re thinkingof, that
it’s me youwant.”
“I do want you.”Vince leaned over, takingKeegan’s lips. “I
want onlyyou.”
“Vince…”This time, whenVince slid inside him, Keegankept
his eyes onVince’s face. His eyes were open, lookingdownat
him. Theywere mere inches apart, lips brushingsoftly, tongues
dancing.
Vince’s breaths came ingasps as he moved inside Keegan,
the tightness inhis chest becomingharder and harder to ignore.
He closed his eyes as Keegan’s kiss slowed down,
becomingmore sensual. Slidinginand out ofKeegan’s bodywas
almost anout of bodyexperience. Vince wanted to watch, just
to make sure it was real, but Keegan’s whimpers and moans
kept himglued to the man’s lips. Keegan’s fingers were
digginginto his scalp, pullinghimfurther downinto that
pleasure zone ofa mouth. His cock glided effortlesslyinside
Keeganand the urge to come screamingwas drawingnear. His
balls tightened and Vince bit back a groanas Keegan’s tight
chute gripped him, milkinghis cock.
“Ohfuck…Keegan…”Vince gasped. “Vince…”The
pleasure wave came, crashingover bothofthemand inthat
instant Keeganknew he was inlove. The manwhom he’d
watched for years, listened to, pined over, was the one
manhe’d falleninlove with. The only manhe’d ever
falleninlove with. Vince was kissingthe side ofhis neck while
his hand gentlyglided up and downKeegan’s thigh. Vince’s
erectionthrobbed inside him, makinghimshiver.
“Keegan?”Vince whispered.
“Yes?”
“Are youallright? I didn’t hurt you, did I?”
“No, not at all,”Keegansighed, sated. “It was perfect.”
“So were you.”Vince slid out slowly, keepinghis eyes
onKeeganfor anysignof pain. He rested onhis elbow, lookingat
Keegan. A foreignfeelingwashed over him, slicingthroughhis
gut. What ifNardozzigot his hands onKeeganagain? The
manhad alreadyendured torture once and survived. If Vince
knew anythingfor certain, it was that the effects oftorture
stayed withyoulongafter you’d beenset free. Keeganstillhad
lingering after-effects.
He had to get Keeganto safety. He wouldn’t forgive
himselfifanythinghappened to him. The protectiveness rose
inhimat the thought ofKeeganinpain. Runninghis fingers
throughKeegan’s soft hair, he thought about what Keeganhad
said. He’d fantasized about thembeingtogether, that
theycouldn’t get enoughofeachother. Vince realized he
couldn’t get enoughofKeegan- his skinand the wayhe tasted,
the kisses that seemed to take his breathaway, the
wayKeeganfelt whentheymade love, his hands, his lips. Vince
almost groaned, thinkingabout being balls deep inside
himagain.
“Vince?”Keeganmoved onhis side, lookingat Vince’s
strongchest.
“What is it?”Vince twirled a piece of Keegan’s soft hair
betweenhis fingers.
“AmI okayinbed?”Keeganclosed his eyes as his cheeks turned
pink.
“WhyonEarthwould youask me that? Have younot heard me
duringsexwith you?”Vince sat up a bit, movinghis hand to
Keegan’s cheek. “Look at me.”
“I don’t know ifI can,”Keegan whispered.
“Look at me.”Keeganopened his eyes and Vince licked his
lips. “I can’t get enoughofyou. I wasn’t lying, Keegan; I want
you.”
“But, you’ve been…”Keegan backpedaled a bit. “Youhave so
muchmore experience.”
“Anypersoncanhave sexallthe time and stillsuck inthe sack.
Ifit’s mindless ‘Ijust-want-to-get-off’ fucking, you’re reallynot
learninga damnthingonhow to please your partner.”
“Is that how it was withAndrei? Did youmake love to
him?”Keeganlet out a slow breath. “I’msorry, that’s none ofmy
business.”
“I should have - I mean, I married him. But no, I didn’t make
love to Andrei. What we just did, I’ve never done that before. I
wanted it to be good for you; I wanted you to remember it.”
“Oh, I’llremember it allright,” Keeganlaughed softly.
His face went serious again, as he looked at Vince. He reached
out, touching Vince’s cheek.
“The dayI found out youwere married, I wanted to crawlina
hole and die. I had just started readingthe background on you-
the minute I saw your face…”Keegan sighed. “I couldn’t have
cared less who you killed, youwere just so beautiful. The more
I read, the more I understood and thenI got to the newer
files.”Keeganclosed his eyes. “I couldn’t believe how
devastated I was. You were married and had a child. I don’t
know why, it was stupid ofme to think I ever had a chance
withyouor that I’d ever evenmeet you. I went out and got
drunk. ThenI did my job; I watched, I listened and the more I
did, the more I wanted you. Whenthis assignment came along,
I knew it had to be me. I’d spent years watching, listening,
memorizing everythingabout you—”
“Garlic chickenwithteriyaki,”Vince chuckled, kissingKeegan’s
cheek.
Keegannodded. “Yes, because you hate soysauce, too salty.”
“Wellit is!”Vince laughed, pulling Keegancloser to him. “I
don’t know what this is, but I do know I want more.”
“Really?”Keegansearched Vince’s face; he couldn’t handle it
ifVince was fucking withhim.
“Yes, really.”Vince captured
Keegan’s lips, kissinghimdeeply. Whenthey parted for air,
Keegan’s eyes were stillclosed.
“I’mgoingto go to the store later, whenit gets dark. We are out
ofalmost everything. Is there anythingspecific you want?”
“Just you,”Keegansaid.
Chapter Eight
Bynightfallthey’d made out and had sexagain. Keeganwas
sore, but damnhe loved how he’d gottenthat way! Vince was
so gentle and caring; he’d never seenthis side of the man.
Vince had left for the store downthe hilla while ago, and
Keeganeyed the contents ofthe refrigerator. It was almost
completely empty. The waythe two ofthemate, he was
surprised it had takenthis long. He closed the fridge and went
out the back door.
The night was beautifulas always and Keeganwent to the
garage to get firewood. He grabbed one ofthe smaller pieces
offthe top and was searchingfor another one when he heard the
unmistakable sound ofhelicopter blades.
Keeganranout and looked up, trying to locate the chopper.
A streak oflight whizzed byand hit the garage behind him;
Keeganflew forward fromthe blast, hittingthe ground. He
stood up onshakylegs and realized he couldn’t hear anything.
The garage was a massive ballofflames.
~~
Vince stopped and cocked his head to the side, he was
about two miles fromthe house but he knew that sound. It was
the sound ofChinook blades. Vince turned and ranback
towards the safe house. A large explosionwent offand flames
licked up at the sky. His heart poundinginhis chest, Vince ran
as fast as his legs would take him. He finally reached the
house and saw the Chinook leavingthe scene. Vince raninto
the house, lookingthrougheachroom.
“Keegan!”He looked throughallthe rooms again, under
beds, inclosets. Nothing
“Keegan!”
Vince ranout to the garage as another smallblast went off,
illuminatingthe back yard. He looked around the yard.
“Keegan! Answer me!”Vince got as close as he could to the
flames, lookinginside the garage. The sprinkler systemwas on,
dousingthe flames, givinghima good look inside. There were
no bodies onthe floor, but a blood trailled fromthe garage
towards the house.
Vince grabbed his phone and flipped it open, callingDamon.
“Vincent?”
“I think Nardozzitook Keegan, Damon. I’mina safe house
inBenson, Arizona. Hangona second.”Vince went back inside
the house, found Keegan’s phone and flipped it open.
Scrollingthroughthe contacts, he found, ‘incase ofemergency.’
Hittingthe ‘call’ button, Vince waited.
“Pruitt.”
“James?”Vince asked.
James jumped to attention, snapping his fingers at Derek.
“Vince?”
Vince walked into the kitchen.
“Keegan’s beentaken, James.”
“What?”James shouted.
Vince narrowed his eyes; a note was onthe diningroomtable,
alongwithblood. As he neared it, he could see
somethingsittingon top ofthe note. Vince looked closer,
picking up what laythere. His bodyshook and the anger rose.
The note onthe table was from Nardozziand the itemleft ontop
was
Keegan’s fingernail.
His blood boiled and his hands shook as the rage consumed
him, paintingeverything red. The unmistakable click ofguns
came from behind him.
“Come to the safe house inBenson.” Vince put the phones
down. Vince listened to the breathingbehind him; a low
feralgrowl rose frominside him. “Let’s play.”
The first gunwent off, the bullet hitting the plaster inches
fromhis head. Vince spun withhis knife, slicingopenthe first
manwithin reach. A screampierced the air and intestines
spilled to the floor. Vince smiled as he sliced across the man’s
neck mid-scream, almost decapitatinghim. Another shot went
offand Vince did a back handspringout ofthe wayof the next
man. He spunhis knife around inhis hand and brought it
downhard. The man’s hand came off, withthe gunstillclutched
betweenthe fingers. Another loud screamand Vince growled
like a manpossessed. They were allgoingto die. Very.
Painfully.
~~
James had recorded the conversation as soonas he’d picked
up the phone. Now he almost wished he hadn’t. The teamhad
gathered withinminutes and was onits wayto the safe house.
James pushed ‘play’ for the guys to hear what had
happened. At first there was nothingbut the clicks ofguns,
thena massive growlcame over the recording.
Blood-curdlingscreams could be heard and animalistic grunts
and shouts. It was horrific. James stopped the recordingas
theypulled up to the house.
A limo was pullingup at the same time and James got out
ofhis vehicle, pullinghis gunfromits holster. Samand Troy,
alongwith Mateo and Josh, flanked him.
“Dammit, James!”Derek hissed. He looked over at Mark,
Riley, Sawyer and Dakota. “Stayright here!”
James stood, waitingfor the door to open. A dark haired
mangot out ofthe limo and looked at James.
“James Pruitt?”
James lowered his gunslightly. “Yes?”James looked over the
man.
“DamonSantorno.”
“Yes, I believe Vincent is inthe
house?”
Troymoved infront ofJames, sniffing
the air.
“Who’s withyou?”
Damonmoved aside, allowingthe rest
ofhis mento exit the limo.
James recognized Vince’s son,
Nikolai.
“He called me, told me Keeganhad
beentaken,”James said.
“I received the same call,”Damon nodded. “I think we should
go inside, don’t
you?”Damonturned to Marco and Antonio. “Put your weapons
away, theyare not our enemies.”Damontook a tentative step
forward, eyeingJames and his men.
James looked over his shoulder. “Put your guns down.”
“But James—”Mateo started. “Do it!”James shouted.
Damonmoved forward, but with
caution. Pruitt’s menhad lowered their
weapons, but he knew theydidn’t need them
to kill. He stepped infront ofJames, extending
his hand. “Bigwig?”
James nodded.
“You?”
“Yes.”Damonlooked behind him. “Move carefully, we do not
know what is
goingoninside the house.”
The group ofmensurrounded the
front ofthe house. Derek opened the panel,
unlockingthe front door. He stepped back
and motioned withhis fingers, countingdown
to one. Antonio nodded and as soonas the
locks disengaged, he forced his waythrough
the door, gundrawn.
The scene before themlooked like a
horror movie ofepic proportions.
Vince sat withhis back against the
livingroomwall, covered inblood. Bodyparts
laystrewnallover the livingroomand most of
the kitchenand hallway. Derek sucked ina
breath, lookingat James.
“Jesus, how manywere there?”Derek
said, quietly.
“I can’t tell.”
“Yousonofa bitch!”Mateo roared.
He grabbed Vince offthe floor and punched
him.
Everyone seemed to move at once.
Troyand Samtried to pryMateo offofVince
as he repeatedlyhit the man. Joshtried to get
inbetweenthe other large menwho had come
withDamonSantorno.
“Mateo!”Rileyshouted.
Mateo stopped, fist cocked inthe air.
“Get back inthe fuckingcar, Riley!”
“Look at him! He’s not fightingback!”
Rileymade his wayover to his husband.
“Look at him; he looks like youdid when
those killers kidnapped me!”
“He let themtake Keegan!”Mateo
shouted, cockinghis fist back again.
“Youhit himagainand youwill have
to dealwithme,”Nikolaisaid.
Theyallturned to see Nikolaistanding
inthe middle ofthe room.
Nikolaimoved througheveryone and
pushed Mateo out ofthe way. He crouched
down, lookinginto his father’s face.
“He’s inshock.”
“Oh, God,”Dakota covered his
mouth. The smellofblood was strong. “I think
I’mgoingto be sick.”
Joshtook Mark’s hand. “Get Dakota
out ofhere.”
“Pops?”Nikolaipulled his father’s
face up. The eyes were blank, seeingnothing
and no one. “Pops.”Nikolaitook his father in
his arms.
“Who’s got the monitor?”James
looked at his men.
“Youmust learnto controlyour
men—”Marco eyed Mateo.
“Youhave a wayto find him?”Damon
snapped his fingers, shuttingMarco up. Rileysat onthe floor
infront of
Nikolaiand Vince. He put his hand on
Nikolai’s shoulder. “We have a tracking
bracelet onKeegan, we canfind him.” “Youhear that, Pops?
Theycanfind
him, theycan find Keegan.”Nikolaigrabbed
his father’s chin. “Look at me! Theyhave him!
Are yougoingto sit here like this? Fucking
coward!”
Nikolaislapped his father.
“Nikolai!”Damonshouted.
Vince blinked. “Nik?”
“Yes!”Nikolaishook his father.
“Snap out ofit!”
Damonmoved forward, crouching
downinfront ofVince. He looked at Nikolai. “Take himto the
bathroomand clean
himup. Marco and Antonio, check allthe
rooms and—”
“Check the back yard, guys.”James
motioned to the kitchen. “I think we should
start inthere,”James nodded to Damon. “Oh, God!”
Mateo heard Riley’s voice and
realized he had moved awayfromhim. He ran
into the kitchen, where Rileystood with
somethinginhis hand. Mateo hurried to his
husband.
“What is—?”
“Theypulled his fingernailout!”Riley
sobbed. “Theyhave our Keegan!”
“Get himout ofhere!”James roared. Damonpicked the note up
offthe
table.
“See you soon.”Damonhanded the
note to James. “It is Nardozzi’s handwriting.”
“Fuck!”Sampunched the wall. “Goddammit!”Joshroared,
flipping
the diningroomtable over.
“Josh! Stop it!”Mark grabbed his
husband. “None ofthis is goingto help
Keegan!”
Troylooked around the house.
“Shouldn’t the fire department have come by
now? I mean, it’s beenover anhour.” “I called the fire
department.”James
rested his hands onthe counter. “I told them
to give us some time; theywon’t enter the
house.”
“The garage is almost out.”Sam
looked out the back door.
“Theycalled me whentheyrealized
whose house it was.”Derek rana hand
throughhis hair. “We are goingto have to
cleanthis place up.”
“I willcall.”Damonpulled his phone
out. “The cleaners willcome.”
“Inthe meantime, get the monitor.
Now,”James said.
~~
Nikolairubbed the dried blood offhis father’s face witha
sponge. Vince sat inthe corner ofthe shower, arms wrapped
around his knees. He’d never seenhis father like this. Not ever.
His face was blank, lips drawntight.
“Dad?”Nikolaiscrubbed more blood off.
“I should have beenhere. I shouldn’t have left
himalone,”Vince whispered.
“Youdidn’t know, Dad. Youcouldn’t have known.”
Vince shook his head. “I promised him. InRio, I promised I
would never let Nardozziget his hands onhim.”Vince looked
up. “I did this, do youunderstand?”
“No youdidn’t, Dad. Keeganknew what he was
gettinghimselfinto; youwarned himand he chose to stay.”
“Because he thought I’d protect him!” Vince shouted. The
sound reverberated around the bathroomand downthe hall. “I
failed and now Nardozzihas Keegan.”
“But theycanfind him, Dad. They have a trackingbracelet
onhim, so get your ass cleaned up and let’s go get your man.”
Nikolaihanded Vince the sponge. “Move it.”
Vince blinked and rose to his feet.
“I swear to God, ifNardozzihurts Keegan…”
Nikolaihanded his father the soap.
“You’lldo what youdo best.”
~~
James leaned over the onlycleanspot inthe kitchen, the
counter. The cleaners had arrived and were startingthe
dauntingtask of cleaningblood and bodyparts fromthe house. A
map ofArizona was spread out and Josh and Derek were
workingonthe transmitter. Damonstood onJames’ other side,
looking over points onthe map.
“Ifhe came byhelicopter, he would not stayinthe air for
long.”Damonrana hand throughhis hair.
James nodded.
“I agree. Radar would pick themup. The Armybase inSierra
Vista has the drone out, looking. I think theytouched down
somewhere and got ina car, whichmeans they have to be
nearby, unless theygot to an airstrip and had a plane waiting.
Either way, we have to wait for the signalto come through.”
James looked out the window; another crack
oflightningilluminated the sky. The monsoons were
infullforce.
“The shit stormisn’t helping, either,” James looked over at
DamonSantorno. “You don’t have to stay; we don’t expect
youto help us find our agent.”
“Well, myassassincares for your agent, so I don’t see where I
have a choice in the matter,”Damonchuckled softly. “Besides,
youare the one who extended the olive branch.”
“Yes, I was. It makes sense for us to work together, poolour
resources…”
“Give our hard workingmentime off?”Damonlooked over at
Marco and Antonio. “Theyhave beengoingfor fortyeight hours
straight.”Damonlooked back at James. “This agent ofyours,
Keegan, he has been tortured before byNardozzi?”
James nodded. “He almost died; in fact we made it look as
thoughhe did die. If we hadn’t, Nardozziwould keep
comingfor him. Keeganhas informationNardozziwants the
locationofallthe childrenofhis enemies.”
Damon’s eyes widened. “Thenwe must find him. Nardozziis
also under the impressionthat Keeganis Vince’s fiancé.”
“Oh, that’s just great!”Mateo shouted. “So this guythinks that
Keeganis goingto marryone ofhis worst enemies? Just
fuckingfantastic! Whydidn’t youjust slit his throat yourself?”
“Mateo!”Rileyshouted, pullinghis husband aside. “Look, I
know you’re upset, we allare, but this is not helping. The one
personwho is to blame here is Nardozzi.”
“No, he’s not, I am.”Vince stood in the hallway. “I left
himhere, unprotected, while I went to the store.”
“Youcouldn’t have known, Vince.” James put his hand up and
looked at Mateo. “Not one fuckingword fromyou, Esposito.
Youblamed yourselfwhenRileywas taken, didn’t you? Was that
your fault? No. Youhad no wayofknowingwhat was goingto
happen, sixthsense or not.”
James crossed the roomto Vince; he looked up at the man.
“Don’t worryabout Keegan, we’ll find him.”
“I’mgoingto killNardozziwithmy bare fuckinghands,”Mateo
growled.
“I think that job belongs to someone else.”Rileytook Mateo’s
hand and looked over at Vince.
Mateo looked downinto his
husband’s face; Riley’s red-rimmed eyes pleaded withhimto
behave. He crossed the roomto stand infront ofVince.
“I’ve made it no secret that I don’t like you, but Keegancomes
first.”Mateo put his hand out. “We get himand youkill
Nardozzi, slowly.”
“Extremelyslowly,”Vince nodded, shakingMateo’s hand.
James turned to look at Dakota, Sawyer, Mark and Riley.
“Youfour, I want youholed up inMateo and Riley’s house.”
“Wait a minute,”Samstepped forward. “I don’t want themalone
out there.”
“Marco and Antonio willwatchover them,”Damonsaid.
Troytilted his head, lookingat the two huge guards. “CanI trust
youtwo withmy husband?”
Marco crossed his arms over his chest. “We willkillanyone
who comes into the house.”
Samextended his hand to one of them. “I’mSam; this is
myhusband, Dakota.”
Marco shook the man’s hand, looking downat his tinyhusband.
“It is our job to die, ifneed be, for our charges. Your husband
will be quite safe.”
Troychuckled; these menhad no idea that their husbands were
actuallywerewolves. “Youhave no idea.”
“Antonio, callLorenzo, send himto their house as
well.”Damonextended his hand to James Pruitt. “Well, we
have a
partnership?”
“That we do.”James took Damon’s hand. “Now, let’s get
Keeganback.”
Chapter Nine
Keeganopened his eyes slowly; somethingwas
drippingonhis head. It was dark and mustyand the sound
ofwater was all around him. Tryingto adjust his eyes, he
caught movement inthe corner. He blinked rapidly, waitingfor
his eyes to adjust. A soft light came fromthe right,
illuminatinghis surroundings.
He was ina cave; lookingup, he caught sight ofwhat looked
like longicicles hangingfromthe ceilingofthe cave.
Stalactites. He was inthe caverns, which meant he was
stillinArizona and stillin Cochise County. He had to be. He
moved slightly, tryingto repositionhimselfonthe wet, hard floor
ofthe cavern. His mouthwas as dry as the Sahara and his hand
was killinghim.
Closinghis eyes, he tried to recall what had happened.
Vince had gone to the store and he had gone outside to get
wood, thenthe garage had exploded behind him. He raised his
hands to his face to see his wrists bound withduct tape; the
nailonhis left ring finger was gone. His ankles were bound ina
similar fashion. Keegantook a deep breath, tryingto figure out
his options. His eyes flew open. Vince. What iftheyhad
gottenVince? The panic set inand Keegantried to move.
“Youare not goinganywhere anytime soon.”
Keeganfroze. Nardozzi.
“Where’s Vince?”
“Probablydead,”Nardozzichuckled, makinghis wayover to his
prisoner onthe floor. He shined a light inKeegan’s face. “Look
at you, witha black eye and broken fingers,”Nardozzitsked.
“What has Vince done to you?”
“Your stupid, pathetic brother broke myfingers,
jackass,”Keegansnarled. “My black eye is frommyfiancé; I
like it rough.”
Nardozzisighed. “Ohyes, Carlos was verystupid, wasn’t he?”
“Very. Vince took a lot ofpleasure in
takinghimout.”Keeganlooked at Nardozzi defiantlyand cocked
his head to the side. “SpeakingofVince, are yousure he’s
dead?” Keegansmiled sadistically. “Youknow what’s goingto
happento youifhe’s not, don’t you?” Keeganlooked at his
hands; besides the one nail, he had allhis others; he didn’t
feelany other pain. The realizationhit, and he looked back up
at Nardozzi. “That’s it, isn’t it? You’re not sure ifhe is dead.”
“I’msure he is—”
“No, you’re not. I would have been tortured byyouthe second
yougot your hands onme.”Keegannarrowed his eyes. “You’re
scared ofwhat he’lldo to youifyou hurt me
further.”Keegansmiled as Nardozzi shifted his feet. “That is it.
Youknow exactly what he’s capable of.”Keeganshifted onthe
ground. “He’s goingto killyou, Nardozzi, very, very, slowly.”
“I sent more thanone man, Agent Ripley. I’mnot
stupid,”Nardozzisnarled.
“Yeah?”Keegangrinned. “Youheard fromanyofthem?”The look
onNardozzi’s face gave Keeganhope that Vince was alive. He
had to be. Nardozziwouldn’t be this nervous ifVince was dead.
Keeganfelt his heart swellingwithhappiness, no matter what
happened to him, Vince was okay.
“Benny! Duct tape Agent Ripley’s mouth, I’mtired ofhis
voice,”Nardozzi shouted.
“I don’t have to talk, Nardozzi. You and I bothknow that
evenifyoudon’t lay another finger onme, Vince is goingto take
everybodypart youhave - One. Slice. At. A.
Time.”Keeganenunciated eachand every word before
treatingNardozzito a wide grin.
Nardozzicrouched downinfront of Agent Ripley. “How the
helldid youget Vince Markovto propose? Look at you,
stuttering, scarred Agent Ripley.”Nardozzinarrowed his eyes.
“It’s alla joke, isn’t it?”
“You’ve seenhimright? He’s got a nastyscar onhis hip,
presumablyfromyou. How would I know that, Nardozzi,
unless I’d seenhimnaked? I heard he gave youquite the
returnpresent,”Keegansat back, regardingNardozzi. “He’s a
fantastic lay, by the way,”Keeganwinked.
Nardozzimoved awayquickly. “That’s disgusting. Faggots!”
“Oh, and youare so muchbetter, killinglittle kids,”Keeganspat.
“How did it feelwhenVince’s knife slid into your back?
Remember that feeling, Nardozzi; it’s goingto get so
muchworse.”
“Benny!”Nardozzishouted.
“Yes, shut me up, but don’t laya finger onme, Nardozzi.
You’re goingto die; I canassure youofthat. It’s a matter ofhow
and when, but deathis inevitable,”Keegan kept his smile
untilhis mouthwas covered with duct tape. He looked at
Nardozzi, eyes narrowed, and chuckled. Vince was alive; he
knew he was. Keeganclosed his eyes, sendingup a silent
prayer. Come for me, Vince.
~~
“The trackingdevice isn’t working, whichmeans he’s not
above ground.”Derek handed the monitor to James.
“What do youmeanit’s not working?” Vince gripped the
counter inthe kitchen. “So he’s underground?”Vince felt his
chest tightening. “Youmean…”
“No, Vince, I don’t think Nardozzi’s stupid enoughto
killhim. He’s too close; he didn’t get far and he knows we
cantrack him,”James said.
Joshraninto the kitchen.
“The drones found the chopper, it’s up bythe border
patrolcheckpoint but there are tire tracks leavingthe
scene,”Joshsaid.
James unrolled the map. “Okay, so here’s the chopper,”James
pointed to a locationonthe map. “Here we are. What’s in
between?”James looked up, smiling.
“The caverns,”Mateo and Derek said simultaneously.
Theyallheard a car onthe gravel outside; Josh, Samand Mateo
pulled out their guns. Troypulled the curtains back, lookingat
the new arrival.
“Ohshit, it’s Lyons.”Troylooked at Vince. “Youbetter be
ready.”
“Lyons?”Damonasked.
“Keegan’s partner,”Mateo said.
“Derek,”James looked over his shoulder. “Make sure he
doesn’t blow Vince’s head off.”
“Let himcome at me.”Vince put his hands down,
lettingthemrest at his thighs. “He has a right to be angry.”
“Yeah?”James leaned over the counter. “As muchas you’d like
to think you’re invincible, you’re not. DevinLyons is almost as
ruthless as youare. We actually need youinthis fight, so
pullyour shit together and leave the damnpitypartyyou’re
having,” James arched a brow. “For Keegan’s sake.”
The door slammed openand Special Agent DevinLyons headed
straight for Vince, a look ofpure, unadulterated rage onhis
face. Derek stepped infront ofhimright as Devin cocked his fist
back, reachingfor his gunat the same time.
“Back off, right now.”Derek grabbed Devin’s wrist.
“Get your fuckinghand offme,”Devin growled, lungingat
Vince. “Youfucking asshole! How could youlet this happen!
Dario Nardozzifor Christ’s sake! Let go ofme!” Devinpulled
his armback. “You’re not my fuckingboss!”
“No, but I am,”James stepped betweenDerek and Devin. “This
isn’t helping Keegan, Devin. We know where he is.”
Devindropped his hand. “Youdo?”
“He’s inthe caverns, Dev,”Joshsaid, comingup behind the
agent. He took his arm, leadinghimawayfromthe rest ofthe
group. “Look man, I know you’re pissed, we allare, but
Vince… he cares, man.”
“Bullshit!”Devingrowled. “That man cares about nothingand
no one. Keeganis goingto die because ofthat piece ofshit.”
“You’re wrong,”Nikolaisaid.
Devinturned to see the younger Markovstandinginthe hall.
Nikolaiwalked closer, keepinghis eyes onthe agent. “He does
care; infact, I think he cares a lot. I’ve never seenhimlike that,
he was devastated.”
“Youdidn’t see this place,”Josh lowered his voice. “It looked
like a ‘Saw’ movie.”
Nikolaicrossed his arms over his chest, the butt ofhis Glock
clearlyvisible under the waistband ofhis pants.
“I don’t know you, but I’lltellyouthis much:Mydad doesn’t go
ape shit like this unless he cares. I could hear it inhis voice
before; he wanted to get Keeganout ofhere, begged Keeganto
leave as a matter offact.” Nikolainarrowed his eyes at the
agent. “I can see how muchyoucare, too. Agent or not, yougo
after himand he willkillyou.”
Devinsnorted, smilingat the younger Markov. “Youare just like
your father.”
“Why, thank you,”Nikolaismiled wide.
“Nikolai.”Damonpoked his head out ofthe kitchen. “We need
youonthe laptop.”
“Coming.”Nikolaiturned his attention back to Joshand the
agent. He thrust his hand out. “Pleasure to meet you.”
Devintook the kid’s hand, sighingand shakinghis head. “You,
too.”
“This is goingto be tricky.”James looked over the website for
the caverns. “Not a lot ofroomto move around inthere.
Besides, we have no idea how far inside the caverns
Nardozziwent.”
“He wouldn’t be close to the mouth, he’d go further
back,”Vince leaned against the counter inthought. “He’d want
us to go in, surprise us, catchus offguard.”
“Inthe dark, he’llhave that element of surprise,”James nodded.
“Good news is the park is closed right now, no tourists to get
in the way.”
“So, we evenour odds,”Troycame in throughthe back door
withanammo box. “Smoke bombs anyone?”
“Tear gas.”Vince looked at allthe meninthe kitchen. “Allofus
have had training withit, right? We shouldn’t be as affected as
Nardozziand his goons.”
“Let’s get a move on,”James said.
~~
Rileywas inthe kitchenwhenthe doorbellrang. He wiped his
hands offona toweland went to answer the door. Damon’s
menbeat himto it. Rileystood withhis hands onhis hips.
“It’s mydoor,”Rileysaid.
“It is our asses ifsomethingshould happen,”Antonio raised
a brow.
Rileythought ofDamonSantorno. “Point taken.”
Antonio peered throughthe peephole and groaned.
“Who is it?”
“It’s the pizza man; I have a large sausage.”
“We did not order a sausage pizza.” Antonio tried to fight the
smile risingto his lips.
“I said sausage, not pizza,”Chris chuckled.
Antonio opened the door. Chris Voronova stood withLorenzo
and Reece behind him.
“Whydid theysend you?”
“Comic relief?”Chris walked into the house, admiringthe
décor. He let out a low whistle. “Nice digs, Ri.”
Rileychuckled softly; he’d met Chris whenthey’d gone to
Italyto get James back. The manhad absolutelyno word filter
and was a huge flirt.
“Hey, you. Longtime no see.”
Chris hugged Rileyquickly, turninghis attentionto the
menbehind him.
“And who’s this mouthwateringman?” Chris sidled up next to
one ofthe other men; he had the most gorgeous blue eyes.
“That’s Josh’s husband,”Riley chuckled at the look onMark’s
face. “Mark Montgomery, meet Chris Voronova.”
“Pleasure to meet you.”Mark shook Chris’ hand.
“Ohno, the pleasure is allmine.”Chris eyed Mark fromhead to
toe, thenhis gaze wandered over the other two. “Wellnow,
lookie here.”
Dakota squirmed under the intense once-over he was getting.
“Hi, I’mSam’s husband, Dakota.”
Sawyer crossed his arms over his chest. “I’mSawyer Bishop,
Troy’s husband.”
“Wellnow,”Chris smiled broadly. “Your menare hotter
thanhell, makes sense the husbands would be just as hot.”
“Christophe.”Marco rolled his eyes.
“What? I’mjust makingan
observation.”Chris turned to look at Reece and Lorenzo. “So,
who’s this guywho got kidnapped?”
“That would be Keegan.”Riley crossed the roomto the far
wall. Takingone ofthe pictures down, he walked back over to
Chris. “Cute little guyonthe end.”
Lorenzo peered over Chris’ shoulder at the picture.
“I see now whyVince was attracted.”
Reece studied Keegan. “Aw, he’s so damncute! No wonder
Vince is fallingfor him.”
“Youdid not see the house, Lorenzo,” Antonio shook his head
sadly. “I believe Vincent is inlove withthe FBI agent.”
“Did it look like the missionto Turkey?”Lorenzo raised a
brow.
“It was a horror scene,”Dakota whispered. “The
bodyparts…”Dakota put his hand over his mouth. “He just sat
there… he looked so… lost.”
Chris looked up. “Vince is inlove? Oh, Nardozziis infor one
hellofa surprise. Youdon’t go after someone Vince loves, not
ifyouwant to keep breathingair.”
Lorenzo sat downonthe end ofthe couch.
“Vince is inlove.”
“I told you.”Reece slapped Lorenzo inthe back ofthe head.
“Unbelievable.”Chris shook his head smiling, the picture
stillinhis hands. “Vince Markovfinallyfellinlove? I never
thought I’d live to see the day.”
“Nardozziwillnot live to see another one.”Marco stood inhis
guard stance bythe front door. “I do not think I have ever seen
Vince as he was last night.”
“Theyare goingto rescue Keegan though, right?”Dakota said,
lookingat Marco.
“Vince willgo.”Lorenzo stood, lookingover at Marco and
Antonio “He will killeveryone untilhe finds Keegan.”
Antonio nodded.
“Nardozziwilldie a veryunpleasant death.”
“Willit look like the house?”Dakota asked, not knowingifhe
wanted the answer.
“No, it willbe worse,”Marco said.
“How longsince Keegan’s been taken?”Chris asked.
Marco looked at his watch. “Seven hours.”
Mark wiped his eyes, he had no idea what Keeganhad
endured, but he knew what it felt like to be tortured. “God, I
hope he’s okay.”
~~
Troykept lookingover his shoulder; he and Samwere paired
withVince’s son, Nikolai. To saythe kid was huge was an
understatement; he looked exactlylike his father - you’d think
theywere twins. He alreadyhad massive ink downhis biceps.
Sam must have beenthinkingthe same thinghe was, because
inthe next minute Samstopped and looked at the younger
Markov.
“How old are you?”Samlooked the kid over.
“How old do I look?”Nikolaiput his hands onhis hips,
strikinga pose.
“I have no idea, twenty?”Samtilted his head.
“Ha! I wish,”Nikolaigrinned. “Let’s just sayI’mold enoughto
know what I’m doing.”
Samfelt a smallbreeze and a smell wafted up his nostrils; he
went for his gun. “Shit.”
Nikolaicocked his head to the side, his gunflew out ofhis
waistband and a shot rangout.
Samstood still; he looked over his shoulder to see a mango
down. “Jesus.”
Nikolaiwalked over to the man, keepinghis guntrained onhis
head. He kicked the man’s gunawayand crouched down,
lookingat him. “Heydickhead, where are your friends?”
“Fuck you!”the mansnapped.
“Now, that’s not verynice,”Nikolai shook his head. He looked
up to see Samand Troylookingat himwithdisbelief. “Canyou
believe I gave up mysummer vacationin Seattle
withSebastianand Wyatt for this piece ofshit?”Nikolaitsked at
the manlyingonthe ground. “Hurts, huh? Don’t worry, you’llbe
dead soon. Do youwanna tellme where your friends are?
I’llmake it quicker, I promise.” Nikolaispunthe gunaround his
finger.
“Wait,”Troyshook his head. “Wyatt? Wyatt who?”
Nikolainarrowed his eyes, lookingat Troy. “Quinton, why?”
Troyspluttered. “How the fuck do youknow Wyatt?”
Nikolaistood up, keepingone eye on the manonthe ground.
“Whydo youwant to know? No one fucks withWyatt.”
Troycracked a smile. “I’mhis uncle. I’mmarried to his brother
Sawyer.”
Nikolaipeered more closelyat Troy.
“Oh! I think I saw a picture, but you had longer hair. I didn’t
recognize you.”
“As muchfunas this is, canwe get back ontrack? The sunis
comingup,”Sam said, lookingat the manonthe ground.
“Searchhimfor a radio.”
“Yes, but we willbe talkingabout this later.”Troynarrowed his
eyes at Nikolai.
“You’re so funny, dude,”Nikolai grinned, searchingthe guy’s
pockets. “Nope, no radio.”Nikolaileaned downand took the
man’s head betweenhis hands, snappinghis neck. “Let’s keep
moving.”A large popping noise went offover the ridge and
Nikolai looked at Samand Troy. “Daddy’s home.”
“Vince?”Troycocked his head to the side; definite sounds
ofmenscreamingfloated their way.
“Yup,”Nikolaiwinked. “Ifyouthink the house looked
bad…”Nikolaiclosed his eyes. “More coming.”
“Yep.”Samsniffed the air. “Three more.”
Nikolaiopened his eyes. “How do youknow?”
“We’ve beenat this a longtime, Nikolai,”Troysmiled,
gettingreadyfor the three mencoming. “Well, let’s play,
shallwe?”
“Oh, I like youguys,”Nikolaiwinked.
~~
Loud screams echoed across the canyon, as Mateo, Josh,
Derek and James came up onthe ridge fromthe opposite side.
Damonwas coveringthe back waywithVince and Devin. He’d
insisted onbeingpart ofthe rescue missionand James was not
about to argue withDamonSantorno. The manhad his ownfile,
five inches thick.
Mateo stopped and looked at Josh. “Markov?
Joshnodded. “Oh, yeah.”
James kept walkingwithDerek. “Come onguys, we need to get
this done, the sunis rising.”
“Get down!”Derek turned, taking James into his chest.
Mateo hit the ground rolling; he squeezed a shot off, takingthe
man’s kneecap out. Joshwas onthe guyinaninstant, putting his
hand over his mouth.
“How manymore?”Josharched a brow. The manshook his head
and Josh sighed. He took his hand and pressed down onthe
man’s kneecap. The man’s eyes widened and Joshsmiled.
“Now - how many more?”Joshgrinned whenthe manheld up
four fingers. “Good boy.”
James scowled at Derek.
“I do have a weapon.”
Derek shrugged his shoulders.
“Instinct.”
Mateo snapped his fingers.
“Incoming.”
The firefight lasted less thana minute. James was readythis
time and made sure he took his manout quickly. It wasn’t that
he didn’t appreciate Derek’s protectiveness, but damn, the
manhad to know he could take care ofhimself. He was James
Bond for Christ’s sake. James chuckled as Derek raised
aneyebrow at him.
“What?”James asked.
“I get it okay? Youcantake care of yourself, doesn’t
meanI’mnot goingto protect youeverychance I get,”Derek
said.
“Just rollwithit, boss,”Joshwinked. “He’s never goingto
change.”
“Blah, blah, blah,”Mateo looked at the three ofthem. “Canwe
get a move on?”
“Yes, Dad,”Joshsaid, checkinghis clip. “Let’s go, we need to
get Keeganback.”
“Theyalldie, no survivors.”Mateo checked his owngun.
“Theyare allgoingto payfor what theydid to Keegan.”
“Move out then,”James said. ~~
Damonstood back watchingas Vince and Agent Lyons
effectivelywiped out man after manwho came after them. He
didn’t evenget a chance to reachfor his gun. Vince alone was
scary, but withLyons? It was downright terrifying. James Pruitt
had not been jokingwhenhe said Agent Lyons was almost as
ruthless as Vince. Infact, right now Lyons was just as ruthless.
He had a manaround his neck, but threw himto the ground and
crushed the man’s windpipe withhis boot. Damon coughed
softlyand Lyons looked up.
“What?”Devinasked.
“I think he is dead.”Damonarched a brow, as Devinground his
foot downharder.
“Youcannever be too sure,”Devin grinned, maniacally.
Vince stood up, wipinghis bloody hands offonthe manhe had
just killed. “You allright, Damon?”
Damonshrugged. “I did not evenhave a need for mygun.”
“Come on,”Vince wiped his knife off. “Let’s go.”
~~
Keeganopened his eyes again; Nardozziwas crouched
infront ofhimwitha longknife. He couldn’t tellwhat time it
was, muchless what dayit was. Beinginthe darkened caverns
disoriented him. He stretched his legs out, wincingat the crack
in his back. Nardozziranthe knife throughhis fingers, smiling.
 “Looks like I was right. Vince is dead. He would have
beenhere bynow.”Nardozzi took the knife, runningit
alongKeegan’s thigh. “So, maybe now I canget downto
business.”
“What is withyou? Whydo youhave a thingfor killingkids?
I mean, I just want to tryto figure out whyyou’re sucha sick,
twisted bastard.”Keegantried to focus onthe cave, bidinghis
time. He needed to keep Nardozzitalking, keep himfocused on
somethingother thantorturinghim.
“Youknow, myfather loved young boys,”Nardozzipaced
infront ofKeegan. “He married mymother just to have
children. Oh, granted he never touched me or Carlos, but he
touched everyother youngboy. Some ofthemevenenjoyed it;
mydad used to take themout to soccer games, dinner, spent
hours withthem. He never did anyofthose things withme and
Carlos, we were just his sons. The first kid I killed was the one
he loved the most,”Nardozzismirked. “Youshould have
seenthe look onhis face; he respected me after that, evenspent
some time withme. Then Vince came, tore myfather to pieces
right in front ofme.”Nardozzi’s eyes blazed with anger.
“Vince killed your father?”Keegan tried to sit up a little
more.
“He was ananimal, he stillis.” Nardozzicrouched downinfront
ofKeegan again. “He kills withdead eyes, did youknow that?
Nothingand I meannothing fazes him. He’s cold and precise;
he didn’t evenbat an eyelash.”
“Youare worse,”Keeganhissed. “Youmake themthink theyare
playinga game and thenyoukillthem. Youare a sadistic piece
ofshit!”Keeganspat inNardozzi’s face.
“Youwillpayfor that!”Nardozzilifted the knife.
A thick, white smoke filled the cavern, makingKeegan’s eyes
water. He took shallow breaths, tryingnot to inhale too much
tear gas. A bright light shined inhis face and illuminated the
entire cavern. Keeganknew what to expect fromthe gas and
clenched his eyes shut.
“What the fuck!”Nardozzishouted, his eyes watered and
mucus ranfromhis nose.
“I think Vince has arrived,”Keegan coughed.
Shouts and grunts filled the cavern, movement was
everywhere and Keegan couldn’t pinpoint where it was
allcoming from. A loud shot rangout, reverberating throughthe
caverns. Nardozziflew backward witha roar ofpain.
“Keegan!”
“Devin?”Keegantried to openhis eyes; he managed to focus
onthe face infront ofhim.
“Here, put this on.”Devinput the gas mask over Keegan’s face.
“Let me get the tape offofyou.”
Keeganclosed his eyes againas Devin cut the tape fromhis
ankles and wrists. He almost fellover whenhe tried to stand
and Devin’s armcame around him.
“I got you,”Devinwhispered in Keegan’s ear.
Another shot rangout and Devinfelt Keegantense inhis arms.
He pulled awayto see Keegan’s eyes go wide, and a drop of
blood trickle fromthe corner ofhis mouth.
“Keegan!”Devinturned Keegan around; a smallhole was
visible inKeegan’s back. Devinlooked up to see Nardozzi
standing, guninhand, cackling.
“You’re gettingslow, Agent Lyons. Youwould have checked
me for weapons in the old —”Nardozzilet out a strangled
screamas heat tore throughhis wrist. He looked downto see a
longknife protruding fromhis wrist. Two more shots went
offand Nardozzifelt his knee caps explode; he fellto the ground
witha roar ofpain. Lookingup, his eyes met withthose ofVince
Markov.
“Keegan’s beenshot, Vince!”Devin picked Keeganup inhis
arms.
“Get himto the hospitalright now!” Vince shouted,
walkingtowards Nardozzi. “I think Nardozziand I have anold
score to settle. Youshot myfiancé, Nardozzi? You took him,
removed his fingernailand now you’ve shot him.”Vince
stopped infront of Nardozzi; he pulled the knife out slowly.
Nardozzishouted inpain.
“Markov…”Devinsaid.
Vince turned to look at Devin. “Get Keeganto the hospital,
I’llbe there as soonas I’mdone.”
“Make sure he suffers,”Devin growled.
“Not a problem,”Vince smiled maniacallyat Nardozzi.
“So it’s reallytrue? Ripley’s your fiancé?”Nardozzitried to get
awayfrom Vince, except his legs weren’t cooperating.
Vince waited untilDevinleft the caves withKeegan. As soonas
he was sure everyone was gone, Vince crouched downin front
ofNardozzi. “Youknow what youdid to Keegansixyears ago?
I’mgoingto make it look like a dayat Disneyland.”
“Youare one selfishbastard,” Nardozzisneered.
Vince tilted his head. “Whyis that?”
Nardozzilaughed. “Seriously? Keegan Ripleyand Vince
Markov? How longdo you think it willbe untilsome other
psycho comes after sweet little Keeganbecause ofyou? He’s
goingto have a target onhis back at alltimes. They’llkillhim,
just to get to you. Youthink I’mthe onlyone who would love to
see you dead or see the ones youlove suffer?”
“Well, at least I won’t have to worry about you.”Vince leaned
into Nardozzi’s face. “Feelfree to scream.”
~~
James stood at the mouthofthe cave; a medic helicopter was
onits wayfrom Bensonfor Keegan. Most ofthe teamhad met up
withthemafter takingout Nardozzi’s men. James had
alreadycalled the people incharge ofthe park to let themknow
theyshouldn’t openit untilit could be cleaned. He really didn’t
want to get into the details. Samhad his shirt over Keegan’s
wound, talkingto him, tryingto keep himconscious.
Nikolaileaned over Keegan, takinghis ownshirt off.
“Here, youneed to change it out,” Nikolaitried to smile at
Keegan. “It’s nice to finallymeet you, Keegan. Mydad cares a
lot about you.”
“Youlook j-j-just like him,”Keegan coughed, spittingup blood.
“Hey, don’t talk okay?”Nikolaisat downand took Keegan’s
hand.
A loud screampierced the air and Nikolailooked up at allthe
mensurrounding him.
“I think mydad’s a little pissed,” Nikolaisaid.
“Just a bit.”Devincrossed his arms.
The sound ofa helicopter approaching had
themalllookingtowards the noise, guns drawnjust incase. The
medevac unit touched downand EMTs jumped out,
runningtoward them.
“Out ofthe way, please,”one ofthe medics said, pushinghis
waythrough.
Nikolaigot up and moved back towards Damon. “I called
myother dad when I left Seattle, he should be here reallysoon.”
Damonnodded. “I willcallhimand tellhimto meet us at the
hospital.”
“We’ve got roomfor one,”the EMT said.
“Devin, go,”James said.
“Should we wait?”Devinnodded toward the cave.
“He’s goingto be awhile,”Nikolai said. “Go, we’llmeet
youthere.”
~~
Vince walked out ofthe caverns an hour later to find
Damonwaitingfor him. He sat downonone ofthe benches and
hunghis head, the knife danglingfromhis fingers.
“I take it Nardozziis no more?”
Damonasked.
“Well, he’s actuallya lot more now.”
Vince looked up. “I wanted himto hurt, I wanted himto
feelwhat Keeganfelt, the sheer panic ofknowingwhat was
coming, but prolongingit, takingone little piece at a time. He
deserved so muchworse; Keeganshould
have beenhere to see it.”
“I do not think Keeganwould have
wanted to see it. I think he would have been
happyshootingNardozziinthe head.” Vince shook his head.
“Too humane.”
“James sent the helicopter back; you
should go to the hospital. Andreihas arrived.” “Andrei’s
here?”Vince asked. “Yes, he and Nikolaiare donating
blood.”Damonput his hand out to Vince.
“Come on.”
Vince stood up, panicked. “Is he
okay? Does he need more blood? I cangive
himsome ofmine—”
Damontook Vince’s hand. “Come
on.”
~~
Vince looked out over the Arizona
desert. Byhelicopter it took less thanfifteen
minutes to get to the smallhospitalinBenson.
As soonas the chopper touched down, Vince
ranfor the emergencyroom. The doors slid
openand he entered the waitingarea.
Keegan’s close friends were allpacingback
and forth; Mateo stood bythe far wall, arms
crossed, scowling. The looks onalloftheir
faces made himfeellike shit. This would have
never happened ifhe’d just let Keegango that
first night. Evennow he felt selfish, he wanted
to hold Keegan, let himknow he was there. “Markov,”James
said, walkingover. “Is he okay? Is he goingto make it?”
Vince asked.
“Keegan’s one hellofa fighter, I’m
sure youknow that,”James tried to smile.
“He’s goingto need more blood, though, and
I think—”James didn’t evenfinishhis
sentence; Vince was alreadyrunningdownthe
hall. “Well, that solves that problem.” “I wishI could have
donated,”Josh
leaned back, sighing. “I’d give himwhatever
he needed.”
“Well, he needed O negative, which
youare not,”James smiled, takingJosh’s
hand. “He’d appreciate it, youknow he
would.”
“I just wishwe would hear
something,”Troysaid, pacingagain.
“Did anyone callRileyand the rest of
the guys?”Derek asked.
“I did,”Mateo said. “Theyare ontheir
way. Rileytook the Cessna; they’llland at the
smallairstrip downthe road.”
“Good,”James nodded. “We allneed
to be here for Keegan.”
“And we willbe,”Samsaid.
~~
Vince layback onthe gurneyand flexed his hand. The
longplastic tube filled immediatelywithhis blood. He closed
his eyes; he’d give everylast drop he had to save Keegan. He
hadn’t seenmuchofKeeganin the cave; he didn’t want to take
his eyes offof Nardozzi. He didn’t think he could look at
Keegananyway; knowingit was his fault Keeganhad
beentakenand tortured. He just needed to see him, alive and
breathing, needed to see that grin, hear that giggle, gaze into
those eyes. He needed Keegan, more thananythinghe needed
him, wanted him.
Nardozzi’s words haunted him. Was he
beingselfishinwantingto keep Keegan? He knew Andreicould
take care ofhimself, he’d shownit onmore thanone
occasionand Nikolai, well, theyhad left himalone for years
now. Nikolaiwas his ownforce ofnature; he killed inthe exact
same manner as Vince, cold and precise.
Keeganwas different. Eventhough Vince knew the
mancould take care of himself, the riffraffVince dealt
withwere some ofthe worst ever.
Vince sighed; Keegandeserved a life ofnot havingto look
over his shoulder, to be witha manwho put himfirst above
allothers. Keeganwould never be safe withhim. A nurse came
inand looked at the bag; she smiled and removed the tube,
puttinggauze and tape over the area.
“Your friend is stillinsurgery; he’s a fighter and the doctor
is confident he’llpull through,”she smiled, takingthe bag.
“Thank you.”Vince sat up, watching her leave. He ranhis
hands over his face and stood. The door opened againand
Andrei poked his head in.
“Youlook like shit,”Andreigrinned. “Thank you,
darling.”Vince stretched his arms out, crackinghis back
fromside to side.
“I saw Keeganbriefly; I looked inon the OR. Theydid not
seemto be happyI was there.”Andreicracked a grin. “He willbe
okay, Vince.”
“He has to be, I put himinthis position. I should have never
agreed to this.”
“Youdid not know what Keeganhad endured,”Andreisaid,
sittingdowninone of the chairs nearby.
“It reallydoesn’t matter, does it? He’s stillhere
insurgerybecause he was withme. He wouldn’t have
beenindanger had I left himalone.”
“Youare not responsible for Agent Ripley’s wounds;
Nardozziis.”Andreiraised aneyebrow at his ex-husband.
“Youcare for him.”
“Ofcourse I care!”Vince snapped. “I did this to him!”Vince
shouted. “It’s myfault he got taken!”
“Since whendo youcare who gets hurt, Vince?”Andreicrossed
his arms.
Vince turned and looked at Andrei.
“Since now.”
Andreitook a good longlook at Vince’s face; the
realizationkicked inand he gasped.
“Youhave falleninlove.”
“What?”Vince took a step back. “No I haven’t.”
“Yes, youhave.”Andreistood up. “Youare worried for him;
youblame yourself for his misfortune.”Andreipeered into
Vince’s eyes. “Youmade love to him.”
“What? How do youknow?”Vince stammered. “Wait, no, I
meanwe had sexbut —”
“Youmade love to him,”Andrei smiled, takingVince’s hand.
Vince shook his head. “It doesn’t matter what happened, it
won’t happen again.”Vince grabbed his shoes and headed out
into the hallway.
“Vincent, do not do this,”Andrei pleaded, followingVince out.
Vince turned inthe hall.
“I can’t put himat risk, not ever again.”
Andreisighed; he felt a presence next to himand turned to see
Nikolailookingat his retreatingfather.
“He fellinlove,”Andreitried to smile at his son.
“I know,”Nikolaisaid.
~~
Four hours later, Vince sat by Keegan’s bedside holdinghis
hand. He was pale and looked smallinthe bed. Anoxygen
masked cover his face and anIV line pumped saline and
antibiotics into him. He’d recover fromthe gunshot wound; it
had clipped his lung. Vince traced Keegan’s eyebrows with his
finger; evennow the manwas beautiful. He had a chance at a
normallife and Vince was goingto make sure he had it.
“I hope youknow I’d have takenthat bullet for you,”Vince
whispered. “I’d do anythingfor you, Keegan, whichis whyI
have to let yougo. Part ofme changed whenyou were taken; I
realized Nikolaiisn’t the only one I’d do anythingfor. I’d move
mountains for you, Keegan.”
Vince took Keegan’s hands to his lips and kissed themsoftly.
“I’llmiss youso much.”Vince stood, lookingdownat the face
ofthe manhe had fallenfor. He leaned over and kissed his
forehead softly. “Be happy.”
Keeganmoaned, and his eyelashes fluttered.
“Vince?”
Keegantried to take the oxygenmask off, but Vince put it back
inplace. “You’re goingto be fine,”Vince said.
“Are youokay? WhenNardozzisaid —”
“I’mfine, Keegan. Youknow me, nothingslows me down.
Youshould be here for a couple days; allyour friends are inthe
waitingroom. It was good workingwithyou.” Vince turned to
leave.
“That’s it?”Keeganstruggled into a sittingposition, the
paininhis back throbbed. “Youjust… leave?”
“Myjob is done and so is yours. Nardozziis gone and
Damonand James are ironingout how their new partnership
will work out. Take care, Keegan.”
“But… I thought…”Keeganfelt his throat closingup.
Vince kept his back to Keeganand took a deep breath.
“It was funwhile it lasted. Youare a good lay, Keegan.
Youknew who I was whenwe started this; I don’t feel, I never
will.”
Vince walked out the door and closed it hard. He stood offto
the side ofthe room and closed his eyes. He was doingthe right
thing, wasn’t he? His heart ached as Keegan’s soft sobs floated
into the hallway. He had to go, right now. Vince turned onhis
heeland went for the side exit as fast as he could.
“Leaving?”Devinstood withhis arms crossed.
“Myjob here is done.”Vince stayed withhis back to Agent
Lyons.
“Whatever yousay, Vince.”Devin frowned as Vince exited the
side door, slammingit shut behind him. He looked in Keegan’s
roomand saw himonhis side, his bodyshakingfromhis sobs.
“Sonofa bitch,” Devinwhispered.
He opened the door and walked quicklyto the side ofthe bed.
TakingKeegan inhis arms, he held his partner as he cried.
“It’llbe okay, I promise, Keegan.”
After anhour, Keeganhad finally fallenasleep. Devinleft the
roomand walked back to the waitingroom. Most ofthe guys
were sittinginthe waitingroomchairs, but some stillpaced.
“One ofyouguys cango back there; he’s sleeping,
though.”Devinsat downwitha loud sigh.
“Is he okay?”Joshwalked over to Devin.
“No, he’s not. Not mentally. Physically,
he’llrecover.”Devinclosed his eyes. “DamnMarkov.”
“Vince has falleninlove; I think he is tryingto protect
Keeganfromheartbreak.” Andreilooked at the entire group.
“A little late for that, Panchenko,” Devingrowled.
“Watchyour tone.”Andreiraised a brow.
“Fuck you.”Devinstood and Andrei did the same. “I maywork
withthe FBI, but that doesn’t meanI have to work withyoujust
because theydo,”Devinspat.
“Hey! Whoa!”Joshstood inbetween Andreiand Devin. “It’s
goingto be okay, Keeganwillbe okay.”
But he wasn’t.
Chapter Ten
Vince sat onthe porchofhis villa watchingthe
fishermenmake their dailyjaunt out to sea. Three months had
passed since his quest to take Nardozziout had gone down.
Three months since he’d seenSpecialAgent KeeganRipley. His
heart ached; he missed Keeganso muchit physicallyhurt to
breathe. He’d tried to go out onmissions, tried anythingto
forget Keegan, to make the pain stop, but nothingworked. The
biggapinghole inhis heart would not fill.
He closed his eyes and for the thousandthtime imagined
Keegan’s face, his grin, his lips, everythingKeegan. The
simple act ofenvisioningKeegan’s face gave hima euphoric
feeling, but it was fleetingand when he opened his eyes the
painwould return. The onlythinghe had left ofKeeganwas the
trackingbracelet. He’d stolenit out of Keegan’s
personalbelongings before he left the hospital. He held it now,
runninghis thumb over the lettering.
How had it happened? How had KeeganRipleygottento
him? Knocked over the tower and breached his cold, unfeeling
heart? He couldn’t stop thinkingabout Keegan. Dayand night,
he dreamt ofthem together, makinglove, kissing. It wasn’t just
that Keeganhad said no to him, it was the verbalsparring, the
quick wit, the fact that Keegancame at himwithwords where
no one else would dare. He loved that about Keegan. He loved
everythingabout Keegan; he was in love withKeegan.
It had takenhima while to sayit out loud; he didn’t want to
admit what Andrei alreadyknew. Vince had falleninlove with
stuttering, uncontrolled boner-gettingAgent KeeganRipley.
Vince smiled, thinkingabout their first night together
withKeeganpropping pillows betweenthem. Intruth,
theyactually had a bit incommon; bothofthemhad been
tortured, but Keegancould stilllove. Now he could, too. Vince
ranhis hands over his face; it was killinghimnot to be able to
see Keegan. He didn’t evenwant to know what the man was
doing, it would hurt too much.
“Dad?”
Vince turned to see Nikolaicoming downthe steps.
“Hey, what are youdoinghere?”
“Checkingonyou.”Nikolaisurveyed
his father’s face. A thick beard grew over what was once a
beautifulface; hard lines and dark circles surrounded his eyes.
“Dad… please…”
“I can’t… I just can’t do that to him.”
Vince closed his eyes.
“You’re inlove withhim, Dad. I know
he loves you, too.”
“How do youknow?”Vince turned to
look at his son.
“I talked to TroyBishop; he wanted
to know how wellI knew Wyatt,”Nikolai
grinned. “Surprised him, I guess, that Wyatt
and I were friends. Anyway, after I explained
that Wyatt goes to schoolwithSebastian, I
got the low-downonAgent Ripley. Troysaid he’s not the same
anymore; he doesn’t grinor giggle or hangout withthemat all.
He’s
become… hardened.”
Vince sat back inshock.
“But he was so… Keegan…” “He’s inlove withyou, Dad, and
whenyouleft, somethingsnapped inhim.” “I can’t put
himindanger; I can’t be
selfishabout this.”Vince stood up, runninghis
hand throughhis long, unrulyhair.
“Look at you!”Nikolaishouted. “You
look like hell! Youlove him, Dad! Do you
understand what I’mtellingyou? Youlove him
and he loves you! Don’t youwant to be with
him? See himsmilingagain? Hold him?” “Ofcourse I want
that! This is killing
me everydaythat I’mawayfromhim. But I
can’t ask himto be inmylife, to always have to watchover his
shoulder for the next asshole
waitingto take me or someone I love out!” “Whydid youhave
me then?”Nikolai
put his hands onhis hips. “Would yourather I
didn’t exist?”
“What? What the hellare youtalking
about?”Vince turned to face his son. “Whywould youbringme
into this
world whenyouknew people would come
after me just for beingyour son. Doesn’t that
make youselfishas well? Yet, here I stand.” “It’s not the
same,”Vince shook his
head.
“No it’s not - you’re right. It’s worse.
But thankfully, I know how to protect myself,
I know what’s comingona dailybasis, and
thankfully, I’ve established that I amnot one
to mess with. Keegancanbe the same, Dad. Trainhim. Let
himmake the decisionwhether he wants to be withyou, because
right now all
you’ve managed to do is rip his heart out.” Vince looked out
across the water;
thousands ofmiles away, Keeganwas
somewhere, livinghis life. Safe.
“I can’t.”
Nikolaiwatched as his father went
back inside. He slumped his shoulders,
shakinghis head. “Dammit.”
~~
Keegantossed his gunonthe table as he walked throughthe
metaldetector. George handed it back to himwithout a word
and he continued onhis wayto the elevator. The elevator doors
met and he closed his eyes, leaningup against the wall. He
looked up with a raised brow as soft love songs flowed out
fromthe ceiling. He was contemplating shootingthe speaker as
the doors opened on his floor.
He passed other agents as he made his waydownthe hall.
None ofthemspoke to him, whichwas ironic ina waysince they
usuallygave himshit. Keeganopened the door to his office
expectingto see Devin; he got the entire group instead.
Lettingout a large exaggerated sigh, he closed the door and
leaned against it.
“What the hellare youalldoinghere?” “We’re worried about
you,”Mateo said.
“You’re not the same anymore,”Riley nodded inagreement
withhis husband.
“Good. Because that KeeganRipley was waytoo trustingand
stupid.”Keegan pushed offthe door and went to his desk.
“You’re not stupid,”Dakota said. “Youfellinlove —”
“I’msure Vince is stilllaughingat how wellhe convinced me to
sleep withhim, more thanonce.”Keeganfellinto his chair. “It
won’t happenagain; I won’t let anyone make a foolout ofme
againlike that.”
“I don’t think he was pretendingto like you,
Keegan,”Rileywhispered.
“Oh? Were youthere inthe roomwith us whenhe left? Whenhe
told me I was a great lay? Wellat least I cansayVince
Markovthought I was a good fuck. That should hold weight,
right? He doesn’t feel anything, Riley, and he never
will,”Keegan spat venomously.
“Look, you’re not quite yourself, Keegan,”James said.
“Devintells us you aren’t followingprocedure; since whendo
we just runinto a buildingwithout checkingon what’s
goingoninside first?”
“Since I don’t care anymore. I’mnot puttinganyone at risk but
myself. So, ifthat’s all, youguys cango now.”
“No, we can’t.”James handed Keegana piece ofpaper. “Youare
on vacationstartingright now. Hand me your sidearm, please.”
Keegan’s eyes went wide.
“You’re serious?”
James put his hand out.
“Now.”
Keeganstood, lookingat allthe men inhis office. “Fine, but
leave me alone. I don’t need to see youguys for a while.”
“Keegan…”Rileypleaded, his eyes fillingwithtears.
“No… just… don’t.”Keeganput his gunand badge onthe desk
and walked out of the office.
Rileysighed loudlyand turned to look at Mateo. “He’s not
evenKeegananymore.”
Mateo pulled Rileyinto him; he felt his husband shakinginhis
arms. “It’s okay, babe.”
“No it’s not. Keeganis myfriend,” Rileysobbed.
“He’s important to allofus,”Josh nodded. “We need to fixthis,
guys.”
Mateo held Rileyclose to him; seeing his husband hurtingdid
not go over wellwith him. He looked up at James. “Put me
onthe first flight out to Italy.”
“You’re goingafter Markov?”James asked.
“I’mgoingto make himsee just what he’s lost, ifit kills
me,”Mateo snarled. “Or him.”
“I’monit,”James said. ~~
Vince had just come out ofthe shower and was goingto his
dresser whenhe felt a presence inhis room; he reached for the
gun onhis dresser, onlyto find it gone. He wheeled around and
came face to face with Mateo Esposito.
“What the fuck? How the helldid you get inhere?”Vince
shouted.
“I’mMateo,”Mateo smiled wide, winking. “I cando anything.”
“Give me mygun, we work together now.”Vince put his hand
out.
“Do youknow what you’ve done to Keegan? He doesn’t
evencare about his own life anymore; he’s runninginto
buildings without evencheckingto see who or what is
waitingfor him.”
Vince tried to containhis worryat those words. He bit his lip
and met Mateo’s eyes.
“Not myproblem. Keegancando what he wants, I don’t care
about him.”
“Really?”Mateo squeezed the trigger and a shot went off.
Vince felt a heat so explosive he almost cried out. The bullet
had gone through the meat ofhis bicep and the painwas
horrendous. He looked up at Mateo withwide eyes.
“You shot me!”
“Yeah? Does it hurt?”Mateo asked witha grin.
“Ofcourse it does, youasshole!” Vince shouted. He stopped
and looked at his arm. It hurt… his armwas inserious pain. He
looked up at Mateo. “It hurts.”
Mateo nodded. “It does hurt to get shot doesn’t it? But
someone who had never felt painwouldn’t know that, would
he? Someone who could never love or feelpainor anythingelse
wouldn’t know what painfelt like.”Mateo threw the gunonthe
bed; he looked at Vince’s arm. “It’llbe fine, went throughand
through. I called Reece to come over and take care ofit.”
“Youplanned to shoot me?!”Vince growled.
“I planned to do whatever it took to make yourealize that
youare inlove with Keegan. Your life as youknew it willnever
be the same. Once youhave a love like that it’s impossible to
go back. Trust me, I know from experience. I was where
youare a while back. Never wanted to feelanythingfor anyone.
ThenI met Rileyand mywhole world tipped upside down. I
don’t ever want to know what it feels like to lose him.”
Vince closed his eyes, lettinga loud sighescape him. “It’s like
you’re drowning and no matter how hard youkick and scream
youcan’t get air. I do love Keegan, I’ve loved
himprobablyfromthe minute I set eyes on him, but I can’t put
himindanger—”
“Youdon’t have to; he’s doinga prettygood job ofthat allonhis
own,”Mateo said, crossinghis arms. “No more excuses Vince.
I think you’re scared.”
“I’mnot scared ofanything!”Vince snapped.
“Youare whenit comes to love. Look at you, youlook like shit.
I bet youdon’t sleep and whenyoudo allyousee is Keegan’s
face, hear his giggle —”
“Remember what it was like to hold himinmyarms, the wayhe
smells,”Vince closed his eyes. “God, I miss himso much.”
“Thenwhyare youstillhere?”Mateo grinned.
“Because I’mbleedingallover my Persianrugbecause some
asshole shot me,” Vince narrowed his eyes.
“Is it safe to come in?”Reece poked his head around the door.
“Yup, I’mdone shooting; he’s all yours, Reece.”Mateo put his
hand out; he looked up to see Vince’s scowland took his good
hand, shakingit. “I expect to see you and Keeganverysoon,
myhouse, BBQ, next month.”
“And ifI don’t come?”Vince asked.
Mateo shrugged. “I’llshoot youinthe other arm.”Mateo winked
and left the room.
Reece put his bagdownand looked at the gunshot wound.
“Wow, nice shot. It went allthe waythrough.”
“Youknew he was goingto shoot me?”Vince asked.
“Yup,”Reece cleaned the wound out, hearingVince hiss. He
stopped withthe cotton ballinhis fingers. “Youfelt that?”
“Yeah, I did,”Vince grinned.
“Youfeelpain?”Reece stood up, lookinginVince’s eyes.
Vince nodded. “I do, please hurryup and fixme; I’ve got to go
find Keegan.”
“So it worked. Jesus, it took a bullet,” Reece smiled,
gettingback to work. “You’re goingto tellhimyoulove him.”
“I’mgoingto do that and so much more,”Vince said.
~~
It had takenalmost twentyfour hours for Vince to get to
Phoenix, Arizona, the perks ofhavinga jet onstandby. He’d
already gone to Keegan’s apartment inGlendale and hadn’t
found him. He had called Pruitt and gottenKeegan’s mom’s
address. It was worth a shot. The apartment buildinglooked
like it had survived a nuclear blast, barely. Bricks were
fallingout ofmortar and graffitiwas all over the building. The
building’s door was half offits hinges and Vince walked right
in. No securityanywhere. He scowled and took the stairs to the
unit that Keira Ripleyoccupied. The door was warped and
cracking; he could have pushed it openwithone hand and
cracked the dead bolt off.
Vince knocked and waited patiently. He heard shufflinginside
and thena woman who looked older thanher actualyears
answered the door, a bagofice onher head. Keegan’s green-
greyeyes were lookingat him and Vince tried to hold it
together.
“Mrs. Ripley?”Vince asked.
“Holyshit, you’re Vince Markov,” Keira whispered. “I don’t
know shit, asswipe; youcanjust killme now.”
Vince was impressed and he grinned. “Um, not whyI’mhere.
I’mactuallylooking for Keegan.”
“Why?”Keira tilted her head to the side.
“I have somethingto tellhim.”Vince looked at the door. “MayI
come in?”
Keira snorted, takingthe gunfromher robe. “Bullshit. You’re
goingto killmysonfor some reason. I’llbe happyto take youout
first, Markov,”Keira coughed.
Vince sighed; he reallydidn’t want to get shot twice inless
thantwentyfour hours. He heard Keira’s wheeze and looked at
her face again. “You’re sick. How bad is it?”
“What the fuck do youcare?”Keira snapped. “Youcansave the
bullet youhad for me; I’mnot goingto last muchlonger. But I
willtellmysonto runlike hell.”
“I’minlove withyour son, Mrs. Ripley.”Vince waited; Keira
looked like she might fallover. “Do youmind ifI…?”Vince
walked inslowly, shuttingthe door behind him and takingKeira
to the kitchen. The freezer door was wide open, but the
kitchenfelt like the ovenwas onbroil. Infact the whole
apartment was swelteringhot.
Vince sat Keegan’s mother downand checked the thermostat. It
was over a hundred degrees inthe apartment. “Does the air not
work?”Vince flicked the thermostat switch.
“Super hasn’t fixed it,”Keira said absentmindedly. Keira
blinked and stood up. “Wait, what did yousay?”
Vince came back into the kitchenwith a frown. “That’s not
right; youshould at least have air conditioning.”
“Answer me, Markov.”Keira put her hands onher hips.
“Whichpart?”Vince grinned.
Keira felt a smile forming. “My husband was right about you,
youdo have a heart.”
“I didn’t,”Vince sat downat the table, claspinghis hands.
“ThenI had Nikolaiand thenI met your son. I’minlove
withyour son. Do youknow where he is?”
“He didn’t tellme where he was going, just said he needed to
face realityby revisitinga fantasy?”
Vince’s brows pinched inthought. He looked up quickly. “I
know where he went.”
“You…hurt him, didn’t you?”Keira’s face fell. “That’s
whyhe’s changed so much. Youwere the assignment.”
“I wanted to keep himsafe; I know he’llbe indanger just
beingwithme.”
Keira took Vince’s hand. “Love is a gamble either way. He
could get hit crossing the street or get sick and die. Spend
every wakingmoment withthe one youlove because younever
know whenit could be taken away.”
Vince looked around the apartment. “Youneed to get the
hellout ofhere; is there anywhere you’d like to live
inparticular?”
Keira sat back inshock. “What?” Vince took a card out ofhis
wallet.
“This is myrealestate agent. Callhim and tellhimwhere you’d
like to move.”Vince took another card out. “This is mylawyer;
I’ll have youlooked at todaybya doctor. Wait for this man’s
call.”
Vince sat back lookingat Keegan’s mother. “Youlook like
youneed a vacation, how’s Italysound?”
“Are youfor real?”Keira’s jaw dropped.
“I’mas realas it gets. I figured out that Keegan’s struggled for
most ofhis life. He has me now, you have me now. So by
tomorrow I want a phone callfroma doctor sayinghe’s
seenyouand what course of treatment we need to go with.
Now, pack your bag, because you’re goingto a hoteluntil
youfigure out where youwant to live.”
“Are youleavingright now? To find Keegan?”
Vince grinned. “I think I’mgoingto make one stop first.”
Keira took Vince’s hands into her own. “I don’t know what
happened between the two ofyou, allI know is mysonis inpain.
I can’t stand to see himlike that, Mr. Markov.”
“It’s Vince, and I’mabout to change allthat.”
~~
Vince took the stairs back downand knocked onthe super’s
door. He could hear the TV onand cold air was seepingout
from under the door. Vince knocked again. No answer.
“Openthe fuckingdoor before I put a gapinghole
init!”Vince snarled.
“Go away!”
Vince kicked the door downand stalked into the apartment. A
manwho had to weighless thana nickelwas sittingina recliner
infront ofanair conditioningunit. The apartment was like a
freezer.
“Get outta myunit!”the man
bellowed.
Vince leaned in, grabbingthe manby his shirt and
liftinghimoffthe floor.
“Fixthe fuckingair conditioningor I’ll put a gunup your ass and
blow shit into your brain.”Vince smiled, as the man’s eyes
went wide as saucers.
“Holyshit… you’re… you’re…”
“Uhhuh,”Vince nodded. “And you know what happens to
people whentheypiss me off?”The mannodded slowlyand
Vince put himback down. “Fixit, fixall ofit, or I swear I’llleave
your bodyparts allover Phoenix.”Vince took his knife fromits
sheath.
“Okay! Okay!”
“Good, we have anunderstanding then.”Vince walked to the
air conditioningunit and shoved his knife allthe waythroughit,
twistingit. “There, now youcanfeelwhat everyone else inthis
buildingfeels like.”
Vince grabbed a cab and called his realestate agent onthe
wayto the airport. He told himto find apartments inPhoenixand
move allthe residents fromKeira’s building into the new ones
and to make sure the rent was comparable to what theywere
paying now. Ifnot, he’d buythe whole building. His realestate
agent, as always, asked no questions and did what he was told.
“Oh, and one more thing, ifKeira Ripleydoesn’t
callyouwithinthe next hour youcallher, got it?”
“Yes sir, Mr. Markov.”
Vince hungup and called Nikolai; he answered
immediatelytalkinga mile a minute.
“Where are you? Reece said that Esposito guyshot you!”
“He did,”Vince grinned. “Hurt like hell, too.”Vince waited for
the informationto sink in, and he wasn’t disappointed.
“You… felt pain?”Nikolaisat down onthe floor before he
fellover fromthe shock.
“I did, Nik, and it was the best feeling,”Vince smiled,
thinkingabout Keegan. “Keegangave me that.”
“Oh, Pops,”Nikolaiwiped his eyes, lookingaround to make
sure no one could see himcrying.
“Youread the file onKeegan, right?”
“Yeah, why?”
“I need youto tellme everything.”
~~
Keeganwalked around the room, it was dark and smelled
like piss and some other shit he didn’t want to think about.
Blood stained the walls and floor. A chair sat inthe middle
ofthe room; metalhandcuffs hungfrom botharmrests. He closed
his eyes; it was like it had happened yesterday. Nardozziwas in
his face, askinghimagainand againwhere the childrenwere.
Thenthe painwould come, searinghot paininhis back and
thighs and all the while, Nardozziwould cackle inthe corner.
Keeganwalked to the opposite wall, the wallthat Spence
had died against. He ran his fingers over the blood that
stillcolored the concrete. Keeganclosed his eyes again,
restinghis hand onthe spot where his best friend had beenshot.
Theyhad looked ineach other’s eyes and Spence had shakenhis
head, remindingKeeganto stayquiet. Thenthe gun had gone
off. Keeganfelt the bile rising.
“It should have beenme,”he

whispered.
The mansionwas abandoned now; anyoperative who
worked withNardozzihad fled after the news ofwhat Vince
Markovhad done to himhad gottenout. No one was readyto
come face to face withVince. The message had gottenout loud
and clear, accordingto the operatives who had turned
themselves in, askingfor protection. You touched Agent
KeeganRipleyand youwere a dead man. Keeganwalked back
to the chair and sat down, closinghis eyes. Vince’s face filled
his mind inaninstant and he felt the tears coming. God he
hated crying, it made himfeel like allhis tormentors were right.
He was a pussy. Fuck it, he missed Vince. Keegan leaned over
and wrapped his arms around his legs lettingthe tears come.
He was inlove and that would never change.
“God help me, I can’t stop loving him,”Keeganchoked
back a sob.
“I can’t stop lovingyou, either.”
Keegansat up straight inthe chair; his eyes flew to the door.
Vince stood inthe open doorway. “What are youdoinghere?”
“Lookingfor myfiancé.”Vince walked in, lookingaround. “So
this is it?”
“Please, it was alla joke.”Keegan stood up, straighteninghis
shirt.
“Maybe, at first.”Vince walked around the roomslowly. “But
now, I want it to be true.”Vince stopped and looked right at
Keegan. “WhenI said it to Nardozziinthe cave, I meant it then.
That’s how I thought of youthen, as mine. That’s how I think
ofyou now.”
“But, yousaid—”Keeganstarted.
“I know what I said, and God please forgive me for
hurtingyou. I wanted youto be safe, Keegan, I didn’t want
youto spend the rest ofyour life worryingand lookingover your
shoulder just because youwere withme. I had to make
youbelieve I didn’t care.” Vince walked slowlytowards
Keegan. “AllI want to know is canyouforgive me? Do you
stillwant me?”
Keeganlooked at the chair, reminding himselfthat this was
reality. Vince was standinginfront ofhim.
“Tellme, sayit again.”
Vince took Keegan’s hand; the fingers had healed and the
nailhad grownback.
“I’mgoingto put a ringonthis finger, KeeganRipley, because I
love you. I’min love withyouand I can’t live without you.”
The damburst wide openand Keegan threw his arms around
Vince, openlycryingin Vince’s neck. “I love you,
too.”Keeganheard a soft hiss, as he moved his hand down
Vince’s bicep. “What is it?”
“Esposito shot me,”Vince grinned.
“Mateo… he what?”Keeganpicked up Vince’s shirt sleeve.
“He shot you?”Thenit hit. “Wait… youhissed… did that…?”
Vince nodded. “I felt pain, I felt it whenhe shot me and I felt it
whenI left you. I need youso much, Keegan. Whenwe were
apart, it hurt to breathe.”
Vince closed his eyes as Keegan’s hand caressed his face, his
heart pounded like wild horses. Vince’s eyes flew open. He
had love. Warmlips touched his softlyand Vince pulled
Keeganto himcloser.
“Love youso much,”he moaned into Keegan’s mouth.
“I love you, too,”Keeganbreathed. “Please, don’t ever leave
me.”
Damon’s words came back to Vince, and he smiled,
palmingKeegan’s face. “Wild horses couldn’t dragme away.”
~~
The ride back to Keegan’s hotel seemed to take forever. Vince
couldn’t take his eyes offofKeegan, he looked so damn
beautiful. He threaded their fingers together and almost cried
whenKeegansmiled at him. He missed that smile, those lips,
that face. Theypulled up to the front ofthe hoteland Vince got
out, helpingKeeganout ofthe cab. Everyhead inthe hotelturned
as Vince walked throughholdingKeegan’s hand. Whispers and
gasps surrounded themas Vince took Keeganinhis arms,
kissinghimin the lobby. Theywalked backwards, lips still
attached, as Vince hit the buttononthe elevator.
Keeganwhimpered as Vince pulled himincloser. The doors
opened and four people looked at them, mouths open.
“Get out ofthe elevator,”Vince growled.
Keegangiggled, hidinghis face in Vince’s neck as the four
people basicallyran off. “Vince…”
“What?”Vince grinned, pulling Keeganinto the elevator.
“Please tellme your roomisn’t at the end ofthe hotel.”
“Nope, about four doors down.” Keeganclosed his eyes as
Vince’s warm hands caressed his face.
“God, I missed this face,”Vince whispered. “I missed
holdingyou, kissing you.”
“I missed you, too.”Keeganopened his eyes, smilingat Vince’s
face. “Youlook good; I heard yougrew a beard.”
“Huh?”Vince arched a brow.
“Nikolaitalks to Troy,”Keegan smiled, his hands
exploringVince’s soft face. “Youshaved.”
“I stillhave a little stubble; I did shave right before I went to
see your mom.”
Keegan’s eyes went wide.
“Oh, hell.”
“She’s one feistywoman, let me tell you,”Vince said.
The elevator stopped and the doors opened. Keeganlooked at
Vince. “Youwent to see mymom?”
“Well, yes… I needed to know where youwent.”
“OhGod, I have got to have youright now.”Keeganjerked
Vince out ofthe elevator. Theypracticallyranto Keegan’s suite
and Keeganthrew the door open, draggingVince inside. The
door shut and he slammed Vince up against it, kissinghimhard.
“OhGod…”Vince gripped the door, as Keegan’s hand slid
downto his dick.
“I want you.”Keeganfellto his knees, his fingers
workingquickly; he pulled the zipper downonVince’s jeans,
freeingthe hardened prick inside. He ranhis thumb over the
stickyhead, lickingthe slit and moaningat the taste ofVince.
“Onthe bed.”Vince picked Keegan up, walkingthemover to the
massive bed. He lowered Keeganonto it and took his pants off
the rest ofthe way, kickingtheminto the corner. Lookingat
Keeganonthe bed, he licked his lips. “I want youto make love
to me.”
“What?”Keegansat up. “But… I…”
“Youcanand I want youto.”Vince crawled up the bed; he
grabbed a hold of Keegan’s buttons onhis jeans and pulled
them downslowly, keepinghis eyes onKeegan’s. “I want to
feelyouKeegan, allofyou, everything.”
Keegansat up, lookingaround the hotelroom.
“Please tellme youbrought lube.”
Vince frowned.
“I think I have babyoil?”Keegan arched a brow.
“Works.”Vince flew offthe bed.
Keegancould hear Vince rummaging around inthe bathroom.
“I got it!”Vince shouted. He grabbed the babyoiland made his
wayback into the bedroom. Keeganstillhad his jeans and shirt
on. “Whyaren’t younaked?”
“Youknow I want to make love to you, youknow I do, I’mjust
…”Keegan stood up and walked around the room. “What ifI
don’t measure up?”
“To whom? This is about Andrei, isn’t it?”
Keegansighed, sittingback downon the bed. “He’s Andrei…
I’m… Keegan.”
Vince knelt infront ofKeeganand pulled his face up. “Youare
the one I’min love with, the one I want makinglove to me. I
want this so much.”Vince pushed Keegan back onthe bed,
removinghis jeans.
Keeganput his arms up, allowing Vince to take his shirt off. He
threaded his fingers inVince’s hair, closinghis eyes as Vince
kissed his chest. Vince’s tongue was doingslow circles around
his nipples, sucking themingently. A stronghand went to his
ass and Keeganlie back onthe bed as Vince climbed up his
body, kissingeveryinchofskin alongthe way. God, he loved this
man, everythingabout himand it didn’t matter that Vince was
or had beena cold-blooded killer, because he wasn’t one now.
Keegangripped the comforter as Vince licked the head ofhis
prick, slowlyswallowinghimdownto the root. After three
months ofbeingalone, Keegansuccumbed quickly, cryingout as
Vince sucked everylast drop ofhis release.
Vince’s hands slid up Keegan’s sides, makingtheir wayto his
face. Keeganopened his eyes to see Vince staringdownat him.
Those eyes were so opennow, revealing everything.
“Youlove me,”Keeganwhispered.
“I do love you, more thananything.” Vince rolled onhis back,
pullingKeeganon top ofhim. He took the bottle ofbabyoiland
put some onKeegan’s hand. “Please…”
Keeganslicked his fingers, massaging the tight ringofmuscles
at Vince’s hole. Slidingthe tip ofhis finger in, a smallgasp
escaped Vince. Keeganleaned over, kissing Vince slowlyas he
pushed infurther, keeping up a slow inand out massage. Vince
was whimperingas another finger slid in, stretching out the
tight opening. Keeganpushed in further, findingVince’s sweet
spot. A low groanofapprovalcame fromVince as
Keeganrubbed himinto a frenzy. Vince took his hand away,
guidingKeegan’s hard-again dick to his opening.
“Make love to me, Keegan.”Vince dragged his fingers
throughKeegan’s hair, pullingtheir lips flushtogether.
“Yousure?”Keeganrubbed Vince’s crease withthe head ofhis
dick; Vince nodded and Keeganpushed inslowly, his cockhead
breachingthe tight confines of Vince’s body. Anintake
ofbreathfromVince made himstop, stayingperfectlystill. “Talk
to me.”
“Burns… God that feels so fucking good,”Vince gasped.
“More…”
Keeganslid infurther, waitingfor Vince’s bodyto adjust to his
size. The small lamp fromthe nightstand illuminated the room
just enoughfor Keeganto see Vince’s face. Vince was bitinghis
lower lip. Keegan stopped. “What is it? AmI hurtingyou?”
“Yes…”Vince choked out. “But I love it, please keep going.”
“Vince…”Keegantried to back out, but Vince’s legs wrapped
around his hips.
“I feelpain, I feelyou, this is what I want, don’t stop.”
Keegantried to keep his movements slow and steady, but
Vince’s hips came up to meet him, makingit harder and harder
to slow his forward progress. Keegangripped the sheets,
sinkingindeeper. Throwinghis head back, he filled Vince to the
hilt, bottomingout and releasinga loud groanas Vince’s chute
tightened around him.
“Ohfuck…”Keeganhissed. Vince pulled himdownagainand
thentheywere movingas one. Their lips connected as wellas
their bodies and Keeganwanted to cryout at how good it felt.
Vince’s bodywrapped around him, shieldinghimina protective
cocoonas their bodies moved to a slow, achingdance.
GrippingVince’s prick, Keegan started a slow dragonhis cock
as his body moved back and forth, inand out, fillingVince
untiltheybothwere breathingheavy. A thigh pulled himinharder
and Keeganmoaned, he withdrew slowlyand slammed back
into Vince. His eyes squeezed shut as Vince continued to top
fromthe bottom.
He didn’t know how muchlonger he could hold back, his hand
increased its speed and tightness around Vince’s massive size.
His mind was tryingto process what was actually happening-
he was makinglove to Vince Markovand it was everythinghe
knew it could be. Sinkinginto warmthover and over again,
Keeganbeganto cry; this was real, he was no longer inthat
chair, Vince loved him and theywere together.
Keeganmoved like a manpossessed untilhe heard that loud cry.
Vince came all over his hand and most ofhis torso. Keegan let
loose and a low growlstarted deep inhis throat as his
orgasmraced out ofhim. He collapsed ontop ofVince, his arms
no longer capable ofkeepinghimup. Vince’s arms wrapped
around himimmediatelyand Keegan hid his face inthe crook
ofVince’s neck. They lie there for what seemed like forever,
tryingto get their breaths back as their orgasms ebbed away,
leavingthema sticky, sweatymess.
“I love you, KeeganRipley.”Vince kissed Keegan’s head. “I
think I fellinlove withyouthe minute yousaid no.”
Keegansnickered, kissingVince’s neck where the pulse was
beatingrapidly. “I knew what would grab your
attentionfromthe get-go. IfI’d have said, ‘Hellyes, let’s go
fuck’, I probablywouldn’t have seenyou again.”
“I don’t think so; there was something about you, Keegan.
Fromthat first night, allI could think about was you. There was
somethingabout youthat pulled me in immediately. I asked
Damona while ago how he knew he was inlove and it’s
exactlyhow I feelabout you. I can’t breathe without you,
Keegan.”
Keeganshifted, lookingat Vince’s face. “I don’t want to be
without you, not ever.”’
“You’llnever have to be.”
~~
Inthe weeks that followed, Keegan’s life
drasticallychanged. For one, he had Vince, and two, his mother
was inItalybeing treated bythe best doctors. Vince had moved
inwithhimand theynow shared the apartment and went into
work together.
The agents who used to pick onhim didn’t dare look his
wayanymore. The first dayVince had arrived at work at the
downtownFBI office, they’d scattered and quick.
George had takena likingto Vince; he handed his weapons
over readilyand even joked withhim. This inturnmade Mateo
behave, at least a little bit. Mateo wasn’t about to be shownup
byVince Markov, even thoughit had gottenaround the offices
that Mateo had shot Vince. Whichwas pretty funny, ifhe
thought about it. Mateo would have never gottenthe shot
offiftheyhadn’t had a least a little mutualrespect for one
another.
Nikolaihad beengreat; Keeganliked Vince’s sonimmensely.
The kid was so upbeat, evenifhe was just as vicious as his
father. They’d formed a tight bond right away and evenspent
some nights playingvideo games together. Nikolaiwas
spendingthe rest ofthe summer withthemand Andreiwould be
pickinghimup soon. Right now, however, Vince was
broodingonthe bed about having to go to a BBQ at Mateo and
Riley’s. Keegan sat inhis lap, kissinghis forehead.
“Babe?”Keeganleft kisses allacross
Vince’s forehead.
“Hmm?”Vince kneaded Keegan’s
glorious ass inhis hands.
“Come on, youknow youlike the
guys,”Keegangiggled whenVince tried to
stick his finger up his butt throughhis jeans.
“Stop that.”
“But youpromised you’d make love
to me.”Vince took Keegan’s face inhis
hands. “Don’t youwant to?”
Keegangrinned. “Youwant me to
pound ya.”
Vince smiled wickedly.
“Hellyeah, make it hurt, baby.” Keeganlaughed, and was
grabbed
around the waist. He was pushed downonhis
back onthe bed and Vince hovered over him. “Okay, I willgo
to the BBQ ifyou
promise to make wild, passionate love to me.” “You’ve
become a kitten,”Keegan
winked.
“You’ve beentalkingto Lorenzo.”
Vince narrowed his eyes at the grinon
Keegan’s face.
“Reptile,”Keeganlaughed and tried to
get awayfromVince’s stronghands. He was
grabbed and crushed to Vince’s broad chest.
Warmlips covered his and Keeganforgot about everythingthat
had happened duringthe time they’d beenapart. The wayVince
kissed him, he felt everything- everyemotioncoming
fromVince. Theybroke fromthe kiss and
Keeganlooked into Vince’s eyes.
“I love that.”
“What?”Vince ranhis fingertip over
Keegan’s lips.
“I canfeelhow muchyoulove me,
just fromyour kiss.”Keeganclosed his eyes,
as Vince’s lips traveled slowlyup his neck.
“We are stillgoingto the BBQ.”
Vince sighed; his planofseduction
hadn’t worked.
“Okay, fine.”
Keegangiggled, grabbinghis keys. “Canyougrab the
keg?”Keegan
asked.
Vince raised aneyebrow.
“Yougot a keg?”
“It’s the guys,”Keeganraised an
eyebrow back.
“Point taken.”
Keeganopened the door as Vince
hauled the kegover his shoulder. Hot damn
that was sexy. Theywent out to the parking
garage and Keeganlooked for his car. “Youhave got to be
kiddingme! They
stole mycar?? Who inthe fuck would take
that piece ofshit?”A series ofbeeps went off
elsewhere inthe garage and Keeganlooked
around the corner. A black Jeep Rubiconwith
a lift kit was makingallthe noise. Keegan
looked around the garage.
“Where the hellis the owner? That is
so annoying.”
Vince threw keys to Keegan. “You
are the owner.”
Keeganlooked at the keyringinhis
hands; it was a simple dogtagwiththe letters
KM engraved onit. Keeganlooked up. “Youbought me a
Jeep?”
Vince set the kegdownand took
Keegan’s hand inhis. “I want youto have
somethingreliable to drive. Youshould have
anythingyou’ve ever wanted and I’minthe
positionto make that happen. You’ve suffered
enough, Keegan.”
Keeganlooked at the keychainagain. “Wait, KM?”Keegan’s
eyes went
wide as Vince got downonone knee. He
took a boxout ofhis pocket and took a deep
breath.
“I haven’t felt like this since I was fourteenyears old and I had
a crushonIvan whatshisname.”Vince smiled at Keegan’s
giggle. “I want to spend the rest ofmylife with you. I know
there willbe some days youwant to take myownknife to
mythroat, but I promise I’lltryto make those days few and far
between. I’lltrynot to squeeze the toothpaste fromthe middle,
I’llput the toilet paper ‘over’ and I’lltellyoueverydamnday that
youmake me a better man, Keegan Ripley. I willnever love
anyone else and I will love youuntilmylast breath. Please
sayyou’ll
marryme.”
Keeganlooked at the ringVince had
it was a Claddaghring.
“How did youknow?”he whispered. “Keegan, Keira, Keiran?
Ireland.” “Oh, I’mgoingto fuck youso hard,”
Keegangrowled.
“Is that a yes?”Vince grinned,
standingback up.
“Oh, yeah, Vince Markov. That’s a
hell yes!”Keeganjumped onVince, wrapping
his legs around Vince’s hips. “I love you, I
love you, I love you! Youproposed and
bought me a Jeep!”
Vince smiled, wrappinghis arms
around Keegan. “So, I did good?”
“Awesome! I thought yousaid you
weren’t romantic!”Keegangrinned.
“I bought youa Jeep, that’s
romantic?”Vince’s brows pinched inthought.
“I thought yousaid it wasn’t.”
“Youbought me a Jeep because you
wanted me to have somethingreliable to drive.
Thenyouproposed to me witha ringthat represents myheritage
and yousaid you’d remember to put the toilet paper over.”
Keegankissed Vince. “How did youknow?” “I figured it out
inthe safe house; the
first time I went to the bathroom, the paper
was under. WhenI went back inlater, it was
over and it was like that inbothbathrooms.”
Vince arched a brow. “Do we suffer a little
OCD?”
Keeganput his thumb and indexfinger
slightlyapart. “Just a bit.”
“Eh, I candeal,”Vince laughed,
kissingKeegan. He slipped the platinumband
onKeegan’s finger. “Now, get your butt in
your new Jeep.”
“Yes, sir!”
Bythe time theyfinallyarrived at Riley
and Mateo’s theywere anhour late. Riley fussed over
Keeganand hugged Vince warmly. He took Keegan’s hand and
looked
up, surprised.
“You’re engaged? For like, real
real?”
“Yes, like totally,”Vince did his best
surfer voice.
“Stop that!”Keegangiggled,
smackingVince’s ass. “Yes, he proposed to
me and bought me a Jeep.”
Rileyput a hand onhis hip, pouting.
“Oh, so Vince canbuyyoua new car, but I
can’t?”
“Youknow why, Riley, I just didn’t
want youto think… wellyouknow.”Keegan
blushed.
“That we were friends for my
money?”Rileylaughed loud. “Oh, Keegan, I
never thought that way.”
Keegansmiled broadly, huggingRiley.
“Thank youfor beingmyfriend.”
“Thanks for beingmine.”Rileyheld
Keegancloser. “He’s good for you.”
Keeganpulled out ofthe hugand took
Vince’s hand, smilingup at him. “Yes, he is.” Mateo poked his
head out ofthe
kitchen.
“Hey, get your ass inhere Markov,
it’s shot time.”
“I’llbe right back.”Vince leaned
down, kissingKeegan.
“Shots?”Keegangrinned.
“I’mRussian, believe me, I candrink,”
Vince winked.
Rileywatched Vince’s ass intight
jeans as he made his wayinto the kitchen.
“Holyfuckballs that manis just, sheesh…” “I
know,”Keegansaid.
Rileytook Keeganinto the livingroom
withthe rest ofthe husbands. Sawyer leaned
back onthe couchwearinghis signature grin. “So, whenis Vince
goingto make you
legal?”Sawyer said.
“WhenI sayso,”Keeganchuckled. ~~
Vince closed his eyes, downingthe
shot ofwhisky. He placed the shot glass on
the counter and opened his eyes to see allthe
guys lookingat him. Okay, so he’d started out
roughwithsome ofthembut he’d forgiven
Mateo for shootinghimand he and Devinhad
come to some kind ofunderstanding. As long
as he treated Keeganlike gold, theywould
allow himto live. He chuckled at the memory
ofthat conversation.
“Okay… what?”Vince folded his
arms over his chest.
“Youreallydo love him, don’t you?”
Mateo smirked.
“Yes, I do.”Vince smiled sheepishly.
“He’s….”
“Keegan,”Joshwinked.
“Yes, he’s Keegan. I’mglad that we
put our differences aside. Ifwe are goingto be
workingtogether it would be inour best
interests not to be tryingto killeachother.”
Vince narrowed his eyes at Mateo.
“What?”Mateo put his hands up in
defense. “I swear that’s the last time I’llshoot
you.”
“I stillcan’t believe that,”Troy
laughed loud. “Mateo shot Vicious Vince
Markov.”
“It was for a good cause,”Mateo
smiled, leaningagainst the counter. “Besides,
look at what happened. Our little Keeganis
engaged.”
“SpeakingofKeeganand Vince,”
Samlooked at the meninthe kitchen. “I think
theyare goingto have to become privyto
some information.”
Mateo grinned. “CanI get the
camera?”
Vince raised a brow. “What kind of
information?”
Samand Troylooked at eachother
thenshifted their eyes, lettingtheir canines
elongate.
“Somethinglike this?”Troysmiled,
revealinghis longcanines.
Vince backed up, hangingonto the
counter for balance. “Holyshit!”
“What’s goingoninthere?”Dakota
said, fromthe livingroom.
“We are enlighteningVince,”Troy
said over his shoulder. “Canyousend Keegan
and Devinin?”
Sawyer stood, takingKeegan’s hand.
“Just remember, we are stillyour friends,
okay?”
Keeganarched a brow. “Okay, what
does that mean?”
“Come on, we’llshow you,”Dakota
said.
Mark stayed withRileyinthe living
room; theywaited to see the reactionfrom
Devinand Keegan. Theyhad allagreed it had
to be done. WithVince intheir inner circle, he needed to know
what theywere. Theytrusted Keeganand Devinand beingpart
ofthe team
meant lettingtheminoneverythingas well.
“Holyshit!”Keeganshouted, backing
up into Vince. “What the fuck?”
“I’mstillme, Keegan,”Troysaid,
walkingtowards Keeganslowly.
Devinstood silentlybythe stove, his
mind processingwhat he had just witnessed.
“So, um… how did this happen?”
Vince pulled Keegan’s jaw back up,
closinghis mouth. “Theyare stillyour friends,
Keegan. Nothinghas changed inthat aspect,
theyare just… different.”
“We wanted youto know.”Troytook
Keegan’s hands inhis. “We’d never hurt you,
Keegan.”
Keeganloosened his hand from Troy’s, reachingup to touchthe
long, white canine hangingfromTroy’s mouth. “That is so
weird, does it hurt?”
Troysmiled, pullinghis canines back
in. “Not anymore, the first few times I shifted,
it hurt like hellthough.”
“Like gettingshot?”Vince looked at
Mateo.
“Would it help ifI let youshoot me in
the arm? Ya bigbaby,”Mateo grinned. “Don’t tempt me,
Esposito,”Vince
winked.
Troysearched Keegan’s face. “Is
this… willthis change how youfeelabout us?” Keeganpalmed
Troy’s face.
“Youare stillTroy, that won’t
change.”
“And that’s whywe love the little
guy,”Joshgrinned.
“I amnot little!”Keeganadmonished. “He’s just so damned
adorable,”Sam
winked at Keegan.
“Ugh!”Keeganstomped past them
back into the livingroom.
“He reallyis, huh?”Vince chuckled. “I heard that,
Markov!”Keegan
shouted.
“Ooops,”Vince grinned.
Mateo looked at his team, nodding. “We have one more
thingto do.”Mateo turned his attentionback to Vince. “CanI
borrow your knife?”
 Vince raised aneyebrow, but removed the knife fromits
sheath.
Mateo put his hand out, slicingacross his palm. One byone, the
rest ofthe team sliced smallgashes intheir hands. Mateo turned
to Vince, puttinghis hand out. “Youare part ofus now, blood
brothers inarms.”
Vince eyed allthe men, beingpart ofa teammeant trustingone
another and the test was happeningright now. Vince put his
hand out; Mateo cut his hand and thenclasped their hands
together. One byone, Vince shook all their hands. “I’mnot
goingto sprout fur and teethnow, amI?”
Joshchuckled. “No, unfortunately theyhave to bite youto
change you. I wanted it at first, but damn,
watchingTroychange?” Joshshook his head. “Forget it.”
“Youseemawfullycalmfor what you saw,”Samsaid,
eyeingVince.
“I’ve seensome fucked up shit inmy day, nothingfazes me
muchanymore,”Vince said.
“Wellthen.”Samleaned forward, puttinganarmaround Vince.
“Welcome to the team, Markov.”
~~
Bythe time theygot back to the apartment, Keeganwas
halfasleep inthe passenger seat ofthe Jeep. Vince pulled into
the parkinggarage ofthe apartment complex and shut offthe
engine. He planned onbuying thema house; Rileyhad
beenbeggingthemto move into the same subdivision. Vince
looked into the peacefulface ofthe manhe loved and smiled.
He wanted Keeganto have everything he ever wanted. Vince
got out ofthe Jeep and went around to Keegan’s side. He
opened the door and lifted Keeganout ofthe seat.
“Vince?”Keeganhalfopened his eyes.
“We’re home, babe.”
“Mm…kay.”Keeganclosed his eyes.
Vince got themup to the unit. Opening the door, he frowned.
Nikolaiwas stillup, playingvideo games.
“Nik, what did I sayabout bedtime?” Vince said.
“That I needed to get used to goingto bed at a certaintime
because mybodywillbe alloffwhenI go back to
school?”Nikolai grinned.
“So you’re stillup… why?”
“BeatingWyatt’s ass in‘Halo,’” Nikolaigrinned.
Vince could hear protests coming fromNikolai’s headset.
“Wyatt?”
“Yep, I just killed him,”Nikolai laughed, fallingback onthe
floor.
“Don’t stayup too late, okay?”Vince leaned over, placinga kiss
onthe top ofhis son’s head. “I love you.”
“Love you, Pops.”
Vince got theminthe bedroomand placed Keegangentlyonthe
bed. He took his shoes and pants offand pulled the comforter
back. Makingsure Keeganwas covered; he stripped his
ownclothingoffand crawled into bed, pullingKeeganinto his
chest. The room was slightlychilly, whichVince loved. He and
Keeganliked the roomcold, the colder the better. Vince
wrapped Keeganup inhis arms, kissinghis lips softly.
“Vince…”Keeganmumbled.
“I’mright here, I’llalways be here.” Vince let out a slow
breath; Keeganwrapped his arms around himand slid a
thighbetween his legs. It was comfortable, everythingabout
Keeganwas comfortable. He started out wantingDario
Nardozzidead; he’d gottena fiancé inthe process. His whole
life, he’d tried to keep fromfeelingand now he felt
everything. Keegan’s breathonhis chest, his arms around him,
the soft hairs ofKeegan’s head ticklinghis chin. He’d found
love ina stutteringFBI agent who got boners at the drop ofa
hat. Vince smiled inthe darkness. He wouldn’t have had it
anyother way. Six months later….
Keeganpulled up to the house and noticed a black Cobra
Mustangparked next to Vince’s Ford Bronco. The
damnBronco was so high, Keeganneeded stairs to get into it.
They’d moved three months ago, at Vince’s request. Now
theylived a block fromMateo and Riley. The relationship
betweenVince and Mateo had changed and now theywent to
the range together. There was stilla healthy
competitionbetweenthem, but Mateo had finallyconceded that
Vince was one hellofa force to be reckoned with.
Keeganexhaled loudlyand marched up to the front door. He
slid the keyin, onlyto find the door unlocked. Keeganwalked
inand a blast ofheat flushed his cheeks.
“It’s Arizona inthe winter!”Keegan yelled. “It’s not cold!”
“I’mhomesick,”Nikolaichuckled, walkingdownthe hall.
“I’mkidding; Dad likes workingout inthe
heat.”Nikolaiadjusted his headset. “Hangona sec, Wyatt.”
“Vince!”Keeganyelled. “Where is your father,
Nik?”Keeganput his briefcase down.
“Inthe garage I think.”Nikolaihugged Keegan. “Why?”
“Whyis there a new car inthe driveway?”Keegannarrowed his
eyes at Nikolai.
“Oh! Hangona sec.”
Keeganwent to the kitchenand opened the fridge. He pulled
the lemonade out and grabbed a glass fromthe cabinet. Nikolai
came back inthe kitchenand put a piece of paper downinfront
ofhim.
“That’s whyI have a new car.” Nikolaipointed to the paper.
Keegan’s eyes went wide.
“Youaced the SATs?”
“I did,”Nikolaismiled broadly. “And it’s allthanks to you, for
preppingme relentlessly.”
Keeganhugged Nikolai’s massive frame. “I’mso proud
ofyou!”Keegan stepped back fromthe hug, a huge grinonhis
face.
“Yeah? So I cankeep the car?” Nikolaipouted.
Keegancouldn’t help but laugh. “Yes, youcankeep the car.”
“Awesome!”Nikolaipicked Keegan up, bouncinghimup and
down.
“I’mgoingto be sick!”Keegan laughed. Nikolaiput
himdownand Keegan looked up at him. “Yougoingto be okay
goingback to highschoolinRussia?”
Nikolaisighed. “Well, as muchas I love Russia, I like it here. I
miss Sebastian, too.”
“Maybe we canwork somethingout withyour dads,
okay?”Keeganpunched Nikolaiinthe gut playfully.
The doorbellrangand Nikolaitook off. Keegansipped his juice
thinkingabout Nikolai’s predicament. It had to suck having his
fathers live so far apart.
The weddingwas ina month, the first ofJanuary- his birthdayas
a matter offact. He could hear voices bythe front entryway and
recognized Andrei’s deep voice and thick Russianaccent.
“I’minthe kitchen,”Keegancalled out. He trulyliked Andrei; he
had a wicked sense ofhumor and was verynice to him.
Whichwas surprisingina way, since he’d beenable to make
Vince feel- something Andreihad never accomplished. That
had to hurt a little.
“Welllook at you,”Andreismiled, huggingKeeganand
kissinghimonboth cheeks. “Youlook radiant.”
“I’mnot pregnant,”Keeganlaughed, huggingAndreiback.
Andreilaughed loudly, pullingaway fromKeegan. “How are
you?”
“Tired, Vince ranme into the ground this morningbefore I
left.”Keegansat down at the kitchenisland onone ofthe
comfortable highbacked stools.
Andreisat downonthe opposite side.
“He willtrainyouuntilyouwant to kill him. It is just because he
worries for you. He wants to make sure no one canhurt you. It
is done out oflove, Keegan.”
“I know, but hell…”Keegancracked his neck. “I hurt
everywhere.”
“I hope youcanstand whenyourecite your
vows,”Andreilaughed.
Keeganlooked downat his glass. “Are… are youokaywithit? I
know yousaid youwould come…”
Andreitook Keegan’s hands. “I would be honored to come;
youare a very good man, KeeganRipley. I amveryhappy Vince
found someone to openhis heart to. Nikolaiseems to like
youverymuchalso.”
“I would never tryto replace you; I know I never could—”
“I amnot worried about that either, I want Nikolaito have a
relationship withyou,” Andreismiled, mussingKeegan’s hair.
“You need to relax.”
Vince walked into the kitchenand headed straight for the
fridge. “I keep telling himthat, he’s always onedge.”
Keeganrolled his eyes. “Gee, I wonder why.”Keeganturned his
attention back to Andrei. “Do youknow he scared the hellout
ofthe mailman? He went outside in his sweats, shirtless,
withhis knife inhis hand to get the mail.”
Andreiraised a brow, lookingat Vince. “Really, Vince? Did
yougo to the bank as well?”
“Not yet,”Vince winked.
“Did youget your tux?”Keeganthrew the paper at Vince’s
head.
Vince caught the paper withone hand. “I did, althoughI figured
out prettyquickly that it was yours.”Vince smiled, sittingdown
next to Keeganand kissinghis cheek. “Imagine mysurprise
whenI put the pants on.”
Keeganrubbed his face withboth hands. “Whichmeans the one
inmycloset is yours.”
“Youdidn’t tryit on?”Andrei laughed.
“Nope, I just hungit up.”Keegan sipped his lemonade.
The doorbellrangagainand the three ofthemheard Nikolaiinthe
livingroom.
“I’llget it!”Nikolaishouted.
Keeganlooked at the time. “Shit, that’s Devin.”Keeganstood
up and kissed Vince’s forehead. “I’llbe back inabout a half
hour.”
“Where are yougoing?”Vince asked.
“We’re goingto dye Riley’s pool pink,”Keegangrinned.
Andreilooked confused. “Whywould youdo that?”
“Because he dyed ours red; it looked like someone died
inthere,”Vince said, leaningover the counter, sippingKeegan’s
lemonade. Lookingdownat the glass of lemonade, Vince
smirked. “Maybe youshould dye it yellow instead, make
everyone think it’s piss.”
Devinwalked into the kitchenand stopped. He narrowed his
eyes at Andrei.
“Devin…”Keegangrabbed his hand, tryingto pullhimout ofthe
kitchen.
Vince felt the air inthe roomdrop twentydegrees; he
actuallyshivered as Devin and Andreilocked eyes. “Well, let’s
go clean guns, Andrei.”Vince grabbed his ex, hauling himout
ofthe kitchen.
“I maynot be able to touchyou, Panchenko, but
somedayyou’llscrew up,” Devingrowled.
“Thenlet us hope youare fast, Agent Lyons,”Andreigrowled
right back, lungingfor the agent.
“Whoa!”Nikolaiwalked inbetween his father and Lyons.
“Don’t make me put you bothintime out!”
“Youmayhave the Bureaukissing your ass, but I won’t. I know
how youreally are!”Devinshouted.
“Youare goingto find out verysoon how I amwhenI get
angry!”Andreipulled out ofVince’s grip.
“Well, this was a fabulous idea.” Nikolaipushed his father
back. “Get along!” He turned his attentionto Agent Lyons.
“Stop provokinghim! Go dye the poolyellow!”
Keegandragged Devinout and Vince pulled Andreiinto the
garage. Nikolaislumped at the kitchencounter and banged his
head on it. He’d forgottenhe stillhad his head set on
whenWyatt’s voice startled him.
“What the hellis goingonat your house?”Wyatt laughed.
“The apocalypse,”Nikolaichuckled.
~~
Bythe end ofthe day, Keeganlie exhausted onthe bed, not
moving. Vince was watching“The WalkingDead”onDVD and
he was tryingto payattention. His eyes felt heavyand his whole
bodyhurt. Vince’s fingers played inhis hair absentmindedly; he
loved it whenVince ranhis fingers throughit. It had a
verycalmingeffect onhim. His eyes drifted shut and he thought
about the day. Devinwas no closer to beinga fanofAndreino
matter what he said to tryto change his mind. It wasn’t fair,
Andreiwas a good man.
Over the years ofwatchingVince, he’d come to realize that
nothingwas black and white. The fifteenyear old kid who had
watched his mother and sister slaughtered had become
ananimal. But over time Vince had softened and now he was
inlove. Keegan smiled at the thought. Vicious Vince Markov
had fallenfor him. He’d done his job in spades; not onlyhad he
reeled inVince, he’d gottena fiancé.
“Whyare yousmilinglike that?”Vince ranhis finger over
Keegan’s soft lips.
“I love you,”Keeganopened his eyes lookingup at Vince’s
beautifulface.
Vince leaned over, kissinghimsoftly. “I love you, more thanI
ever knew I could.”
“Yousure youwant to marryme?” Keeganclosed his eyes, as
Vince pulled himin closer.
“Ohyes, KeeganRipley. I’msure.”
Epilogue
Keeganstood inhis tuxonthe snow-covered ground; the
sunwas out, makingthe ground twinkle withits rays. It was
beautifuland slightlychilly, but Keeganliked it that way. After
livingmost ofhis life in Arizona, cold was good. They’d come
to New York’s CentralPark to get married, and right now
Keeganstood withhis mother and most ofhis friends infront
ofthe Bethesda Fountain. He’d brought up marriage ina
church, but Vince had shivered.
“What if I get struck by lightning? What if I burst into
flames?” Vince had said.
“Darling, God would have already struck you down for
being gay,” Keira had said, laughing. “So the Bible thumpers
say. What the fuck do they know?”
Keegansmiled, thinkingback onthe conversation. So he’d
relented and when Vince had asked himwhere else he’d like to
get married, he’d chosenthe fountain. Keegan turned and
raised aneyebrow at the guys.
“He’llbe here, Keegan,”Mateo winked. “He was just
slightlynervous.”
“I do not know why,”Andreisighed, smilingat Keegan.
“Youare verygood for him.”Andrei’s attentionfocused over
Keegan’s head. “Ah, there is the limo.”
Keeganfelt his palms sweating; he turned to see
Nikolaigettingout ofthe limo and thenVince came into view.
Keegan’s jaw dropped. He hadn’t seenVince inhis tuxuntil that
moment and, oh, what a sight it was. Everyhead turned as
Vince walked with Nikolaito the fountain. Keeganhad no idea
if it was because theyrecognized Vince for who he was or
because he was just that
jaw-droppinglyhandsome. Vince finally reached himand took
his hands.
“God, youare breathtaking, Keegan,” Vince leaned downto
kiss Keegansoftly.
“Hey! Wait for the pastor, guys!”Josh snickered.
“Theylook so cute together,”Mark wiped his eyes.
“I know, who’d have thunk it, huh?” Joshgripped his husband
tightly.
Keeganturned to Devin, takinghis hands. “Thank youfor
beingmybest man.”
“I said I’d behave and I will.”Devin kept his eyes onKeegan,
avoidingAndrei.
The ceremonywasn’t long; Keegan spent most ofit ina daze.
He was marrying the manofhis dreams; it stillfelt as ifit was a
dreamat times. Vicious Vince Markov wanted him, had made
love to himand was marryinghim. Keeganwas brought out
ofhis thoughts bythe pastor’s voice.
“Do you, KeeganMichaelRipleytake Vincent Markovto be
your lawfullywedded husband?”the pastor asked.
“I do,”Keegansmiled up at Vince.
“And do youVincent Markovtake KeeganMichaelRipleyas
your lawfully wedded husband?”
“UntilI breathe no more…I do,” Vince looked into Keegan’s
eyes.
“Then, bythe power vested inme by the state ofNew York, I
pronounce you married, youmaykiss eachother,”the pastor
grinned.
Vince grabbed Keeganand picked himup, their mouths
meetingina frenzied kiss. Whooping, whistlingand
clappingsurrounded themas Vince kissed Keeganuntilhe ranout
ofbreath.
“I love you, stuttering, uncontrolled boners
KeeganMarkov,”Vince winked.
Keegangrinned. “Back at ya, Vicious Vince Markov.”
~~The End~~
SNEAK PEEK AT “AN
IGNITED PASSION”
~~Chapter One~~
“What the fuck are youdoing?”Wyatt whispered. The
flashlight hungfromhis jeans loop, as he, Sebastianand
Nikolaicrept throughthe academics building.
The further downthe halltheywent, the more Wyatt’s hair
stood onend.
Sebastian’s bright idea was to break into the dean’s office and
stealhis most prized possession. A baseball. Wyatt smelled the
hallway, someone had beenbyrecently. “Sebastian, come on.”
“It’s just a few more doors down,”
Sebastianwhispered, lookingover at Nik. “Yougot the lock-
pick?”
Nikolairaised aneyebrow.
“Ofcourse I do, but Wyatt’s right.
This is a verybad idea, Bastian.”
“The asshole put me onacademic
suspension; youknow I’malreadystruggling.
Mydad refuses to payfor schooluntilI retract
mystatement ofbeinggay. I need my
scholarship.”
“You’re BI, and who gives a shit?”
Nikolaisighed infrustration. “Youknow my
dad willpayfor your schooling.”
Wyatt looked downthe hall; school
was out for summer the next day. He couldn’t
believe he was goingalongwiththis stupid plan. At least
Nikolaiseemed to be onhis side. They’d met a few years ago,
and when he realized who Nikolaiwas it was a laugh
riot.
NikolaiMarkov, sonofVince
Markovand AndreiPanchenko:One was a
notorious killer and the other was the head of
the Russianmob. Wyatt had laughed when
Nikolaiasked ifhe had anyproblems with
that. ‘Hellno’ had beenhis answer, thinkingof
his brother-in-law, Troy, and his fellow
assassins who were also Wyatt’s friends.
Nikolaiwas over sixfeet talland weighed inat
a whoppingtwo hundred thirtypounds. The
guywas covered inmuscles and had tattoos
over most ofhis body. They’d hit it offfrom
the get-go.
“Wyatt?”Nikolaiwhispered. “Anyone
coming?”
“Not yet; hurryup Sebastian.” Sebastianstopped infront ofthe
dean’s door.
“Do your thing, Nik.”
Nikolaipulled the lock-pick set out. “I swear Sebastian, ifI get
introuble
for this…”Nikolaigrowled.
“Hurryup!”
Nikolaipicked the door lock and
opened the door. Sebastianslipped inside the
office, lookingfor the baseball. It was onthe
bookshelfbehind the desk. Wyatt came in,
shuttingthe door quietlybehind them. “Someone’s
coming,”Wyatt
whispered.
Sebastiangrabbed the baseballinits
case. “Okay, let’s go.”
The door handle turned suddenlyand
Wyatt looked for another wayout. “Out the
window, hurry!”
Sebastianopened the window. The
floor below themhad anawning, and he
jumped for it. “Come on!”
Nikolaiheard the shouts downthe
hallway. Shit, the cops were here. “Go,
Wyatt!”
“No, yougo; ifyouget caught it’s
goingto be tentimes worse!”Wyatt shoved
Nikolaitowards the window. “Get out, hurry!” “I’mnot
leavingyou!”Nikolai
grabbed Wyatt’s hand, pullinghimtowards
the openwindow.
“Dammit, Nikolai! You’re a Markov,
youknow what’s goingto happen- now go!”
Wyatt pushed Nikolaiout the window. He turned just as the
door to the dean’s office
opened. Four cops stood scowlingat him. “Shit.”
~~
Wyatt looked at the bars ofthe cell and sighed.
Jail.
He was injailfor a stupid prank that he hadn’t evencommitted
alone but had taken the blame for. WhenSebastianhad come up
withthe idea, Wyatt had beenuncomfortable withit
immediately. ThenSebastianhad talked Nik into it.
Wyatt sat downonthe cot and looked around. He’d had to take
the blame; Nikolai would have beenput inprison. The
authorities would do anythingto get their hands ona Markov.
Theyhad brokeninto the dean’s office and takena baseball. It
had beena prank and that was all. But infleeingthe scene ofthe
crime, Sebastianhad panicked and let Wyatt take the rap
because Sebastianhad a scholarship and a future.
Wyatt supposed he didn’t have as muchto lose as his
boyfriend, Sebastian, but shit. His dad was goingto come
downonhim like a fuckingfreight trainfor this. Wyatt sighed
and looked at the time. Two inthe morning. His brother would
be here soon. Wyatt had beenoffthe reservationfor four years.
Goingto highschoolinSeattle had seento that, and now he was
incollege at the UniversityofWashington. At eighteenand a
halfhe had good grades and a chance at a real future.
Untilabout two hours ago.
Wyatt heard keys rustlingand then one ofthe police officers
was comingtowards the cell. He stood up and grabbed the
bars, singing.
“Nobodyknows the trouble I’ve seen…”
“Shut up, Wyatt.”
Wyatt snapped his head to the right and saw his older brother,
Sawyer, walking withhis husband, Troy.
“Aw, shit.”
Sawyer gave his brother a menacing stare.
“Couldn’t youhave put himinwith some huge, burlysex-craved
men, officer?”
Wyatt rolled his eyes and jiggled the bars. “Lemme out.”
“No cando little brother. Judge’s out for the night, won’t be
back untileight inthe morningfor your arraignment.”
Sawyer smiled wickedlyand looked around the jailcell. “Look
at that, allthe comforts ofhome, althoughyouhave to pee
witheveryone watchingyou.”
“Everyone who?”Wyatt motioned to the emptycell.
“Ifyouhaven’t noticed it’s just me inthis rat trap.”
“Would youlike some cheese with that whine, rat?”Troyraised
a brow.
Wyatt fixed his brother-in-law witha look.
“Youknow somehow I thought you’d be onmyside,
Troy.”Troywas anex-Army sniper and now
anassassinworkingfor the government. Thanks to Sam, Dakota
and Sawyer, Troyhad beenturned into a
werewolfafter beingmortallyinjured. Troy had become one
ofhis closest friends.
“This has Sebastianwrittenallover it,” Sawyer growled at his
brother. “And don’t bother denyingit to me, either. WhyamI
not surprised that youare left holdingthe bag whenhe gets
some fucked up idea inhis head?”
Wyatt looked around nervouslyand shushed his brother. “Shut
up, Sawyer! I’m almost nineteenyears old and I make myown
decisions.”
“Yeah? Eveniftheyare stupid ones?”
Theyallturned as the outer door opened and another uniformed
officer made his waydownthe wide white hallway. Sawyer
smiled and loosened his grip onthe bars a bit. Nicholas Stevens
was a werewolfand a good friend. Whenhe and Troyhad
runinto trouble a few years back, Nicholas had gottencaught
inthe crossfire but had kept his friendship with the Queets
pack allthe same.
“Hey, Ben, I got this,”Nick smiled at the other officer and
nodded towards Sawyer and Troy. Nick waited untilBenhad
gone back downthe halland the door clicked shut. His eyes
fellonWyatt behind bars.
“Not a bad place for you, Junior.”
Wyatt gritted his teeth. “I’mglad you allfind mypredicament so
amusing.”
Sawyer smiled and looked at his friend. “What are
youdoinghere? I thought youweren’t onuntilmorning? Already
champingat the bit to start your new job as a
detective?”Sawyer elbowed Nick’s side.
“Are youkiddingme? As soonas the blotter rolled across
mydesk and I saw ‘Quinton’ I had to see for myselfwhichone
of youit was. Not reallysurprised to see Wyatt here.”Nick
furrowed his brows. “Myfirst day onthe job and I see Wyatt’s
name,”he sighed. “Myfriends are alreadyinjail, how does that
look for me?”Nick cocked an eyebrow at Wyatt.
Wyatt went to his cot and lie down lookingat the ceiling. “Oh,
just go away. I’m sure I’llsee youallinthe morningwithhuge
smiles onyour faces inthe courtroom.”
“WithStarbucks coffee for sure,” Troywinked. “Don’t rattle the
cage allnight, Wyatt.”
“Ugh! Get out!”Wyatt rolled onhis side and faced the brick
wall. He heard their footsteps recedingand sighed, staringat
allthe graffitionthe jailwall. Some prettygood
raunchypoetrywas there and Wyatt tried to remember some
ofit for future use.
Okay, so his boyfriend was a
troublemaker. But Sebastianwas a good guy most ofthe time.
Besides, he was tired of waitingfor his ‘supposed’ mate who
apparentlydidn’t exist.
Allwerewolves had predetermined mates and he knew he’d
smelled his mate whenhe was sevenyears old. But over the
years his familyhad managed to convince him he had made the
whole thingup. Now at almost nineteen, he was startingto
believe they were right.
But he had seenhim, a beautifulwhite wolfwithchocolate
browneyes. Evenat seventhe reactionhad beenimmediate.
Maybe not ona sexuallevel, but he’d had a reactionjust the
same. Wyatt closed his eyes and pulled the coarse woolblanket
over his shoulders; he’d have to face the music inthe morning.
Untilthenhe’d close his eyes and hope for mercy.
~~*~~
Wyatt was wokenup bykeys jingling inthe celldoor. Nick was
smilingat him, a set ofclothinginone hand.
“You’re stillhere?”Wyatt groused. “God, youguys are like a
rashonmyass, cornonmyfoot, a pebble inmyshoe…”
“Yeah, I got it, youlittle shit.”Nick handed Wyatt his clothes
and sat onthe cot next to him. “Whydo youlet your boyfriend
get awaywiththis shit, Wyatt? Jesus!”Nick ranhis fingers
throughhis hair. “Youare so muchsmarter thanthis.”
Wyatt stood up and stretched, wincing at the crick inhis neck.
“Save me the speech, please, I just want a shower and some
hot food.”
“Wellthenhurryup, youhave to be before Judge Phillips
inanhour and he is knownfor makinga statement. This could
go verybadlyfor you, Wyatt, so think about that the next time
youlet your boyfriend talk you into his wild and crazyshit.”
After takingwhat Wyatt could only describe as the fastest
shower he’d ever had and the coldest as well- he was shownto
the diningarea. It consisted ofa chair witha card table. He ate
runnyeggs, some undercooked baconand somethingthat
resembled sausage but at closer glance looked like a
smallpiece ofdogshit. Wyatt groaned and ate the cardboard
toast instead.
He dressed inhis suit and was shown to the courtroomwhere
shame immediately flooded his face whenhe looked at his
father. The disappointment was evident inJohn Quinton’s
greeneyes. Nadine and Joe, friends who were more like family,
sat next to him alongwithWyatt’s three brothers. Nadine gave
hima smallsmile as Wyatt took his place onthe benchup front.
There were quite a few lawbreakers ahead ofhimand Wyatt
couldn’t believe the sentences handed downto them. His hands
started sweatingat what could be cominghis way, and for once
he reallyhated Sebastian. Finallyhe was called to stand before
the judge and he stood withhis lawyer as the judge went over
his offense.
“The deanhas decided not to press charges since his
baseballwas returned to him. However, the DA has decided he
wants to proceed withpressingcharges against youfor
breakingand entering. Instead ofjailtime, I amgoingto give
youcommunityservice at the Seattle Fire Department.
Youwillbeginthis Fridayat 5 a.m. and willcontinue untilI am
satisfied that youhave learned a lesson, Mr. Quinton. There are
things inlife that are more precious to some thanothers. I
willget weekly reports fromthe chief. Stayout oftrouble, Mr.
Quinton, I do not wishto see youinmy courtroomagain.”
Wyatt flinched as the gavelsmacked down. It seemed to
reverberate throughthe whole courtroom. He turned to look at
his familywitha sad smile. This would staywith himfor a
verylongtime.
~~Chapter Two~~
Prestonwoke to the sounds ofthe alarms goingoff. The
female voice comingout ofthe ceilinghad himcringing.
“Engine….Ladder.”
Grabbinghis turnouts he flunghimself out ofbed and slid
downthe pole to the floor below. He had just enoughtime to
grab the rest ofhis gear and get onthe truck before theypulled
out onto the busySeattle street. Prestonwatched
downtownSeattle out ofthe truck and sighed.
Whenhe’d moved here fromDenali, he had done it to be
closer to Wyatt Quinton, his mate. Elevenlongyears had gone
bysince the dayhe’d shielded Wyatt fromanangry CarsonDrake
inthe woods. Allthat time he had waited to take what was his
and when Wyatt had turned eighteen, Prestonthought that
dayhad finallycome. He had gone to find Wyatt at schoolto
tellhimtheywere mates.
To his shock and horror, Wyatt was in the arms ofone
SebastianPrice who was currentlythe quarterback ofthe
Universityof WashingtonHuskies footballteam. Sebastian was
loud and proud and certainlynot inthe closet. Prestonsighed
and looked at allthe buildings flyingby. Wyatt would be at the
firehouse for his court appointed community service today, a
brilliant idea that Nicholas Stevens had come up withand
Prestonhad agreed to. Theybothtalked to the judge and he
jumped onboard.
Prestonknew it would allow him spend time withhis mate
and tryto show him there was more to life thanSebastian. That
guydidn’t give two shits about Wyatt and was
constantlygettinghiminto trouble, whether it was fightingat
clubs or onthe field.
 Wyatt had become more beautiful over the years. His
longblack hair had been cut short for footballbut his eyes
remained the same, those bigbeautifulgreeneyes. Wyatt had
filled out quite nicely, too. At sixfeet, he had a broad chest and
back and was built with chiseled biceps and welldefined abs.
Preston had beenjackingoffto that visionfor years on a
nightlybasis.
Once he had seenWyatt shirtless at practice and had to stop
himselffromrunning downonto the field, growlingthat Wyatt
was his. As it was, it took everythinghe had to keep his lupine
side hiddenat alltimes. Now it was becominga missionto not
onlytake Wyatt awayfromSebastian, but for Wyatt to fallinlove
withhimnot knowingthat they were mates. Prestonwanted
Wyatt to fallin love withhimonhis own, not because they were
fated to.
“Dalton!”
Prestonwas snapped out ofhis thoughts byhis chief. The
chiefwas a good guy. He knew Prestonwas gayand had no
problems withit. Infact, most ofthe guys didn’t care. As longas
he showed up for work and fought fires, theydidn’t give a shit.
“Yes sir?”

“Get your head out ofthe clouds, we’re here.”

~~*~~
The alarmwent offat four inthe morningand Wyatt
smacked it offthe night stand. He rubbed his eyes and groaned,
gettingout ofbed. He hissed as his feet hit the cold floor. He’d
packed his bagthe night before, so he could just get up, shower
and head out. His skinprickled and thena scent wafted under
the door. Wyatt opened it before Nikolaievenknocked.
“Damn, you’re good,”Nikolai winked.
“It’s four inthe morning, Nik,”Wyatt yawned, stretchinghis
arms out.
“I know, and I’msorry. I realize you have communityservice
today. Look man, I just want to sayhow sorryI amabout allthis.
I’mheadingout to Russia this morningand I didn’t want to miss
the chance ofsaying goodbye. I’mtryingto get Bastianto come
with.”
“Youdidn’t do anything, Nik. Infact, youwere willingto
sacrifice yourself. We both know how the cops would have
treated youif they’d gottentheir hands onyou. I appreciate
youtryingto take the blame withme.”
“Look, I don’t know what’s goingon withBastian, but I
willfind out one wayor another. He’s beenmybest friend since
elementaryschool; he befriended me whenno one else would.”
“Gee, I wonder why?”Wyatt laughed, sidesteppingNikolai’s
playfulpunch.
“He’s not himselfright now,”Nikolai sighed, runninga hand
throughhis hair. “I’ve never seenhimact so recklessly.”
“Fromwhat I hear, that’s your job.”
“Withinreason,”Nikolaichuckled. “I know youneed to get
ready, so I won’t keep you. Ifyouneed anything, youcallme
okay? I want us to stayfriends.”
Wyatt hugged Nikolai’s massive frame. Eventhoughhe was
onlyaninchor two shorter, he was dwarfed inNikolai’s arms.
“Take care, Nik. You’re a good guy.”
“Don’t tellanyone,”Nikolaipoked Wyatt inthe chest.
Wyatt put his hands inthe air in defense. “Never.”
~~
Wyatt stood infront ofthe fire station and waited for
someone to openthe door. Five inthe morning. Unbelievable.
After taking a lecture fromhis dad for over anhour, all Wyatt
had wanted to do was go back to his dormroomand pass out.
No suchluck. He was standinginfront ofa fire stationat five in
the morningbecause he’d done something stupid. Again.
Wyatt had avoided Sebastian’s calls at everyopportunity.
He reallydidn’t want to talk to Sebastianright now and listento
his sorryexcuses for leavinghimbehind. The door opened and
Wyatt turned to see a guya bit older thanhimself. Black hair
withblues eyes squinted at him, givinghimthe once over.
“Um, hey, I’mWyatt Quinton? I’m supposed to start
mycommunityservice here today?”
The guynodded and yawned, opening the door. He
wandered offscratchinghimself and mumblingunder his breath,
leavingWyatt to find his ownway. Wyatt walked around the
quiet fire stationand took it allin. He’d always wanted to be a
firemanand his first toyhad beena fire truck.
“Kind ofquiet.”

“Yeah, the guys are out ona call. I’m

AustinJacobson, better knownas probie.” “Probie?”Wyatt
tilted his head and
raised aneyebrow.
“Yup, the new guyas youwould say.
I’mstillonprobationfor the time beinguntilI
canprove myself.”Austinrana hand through
his spiked hair. “So I welcome you, Wyatt
Quinton, thanks to you, theymight layoffme
for a while.”
“That doesn’t sound good.”Wyatt
walked around the row oflockers lookingat
allthe helmets and boots. Equipment was
spread out alongallthe walls ofthe firehouse which, true to
form, were painted red. “So,
are theycomingback soon?”
“There’s a bigfire over onthe pier.
Some warehouse went up inflames, so it
could be awhile before theycome back. I just
came onshift myself. I’monthree and off
three.”
“Three hours?”
Austinlaughed loud. “Ohhellno, three
days.”
“Oh.”Wyatt felt his cheeks redden.
“So is there anythingI should start doingwhile
I wait?”
Austinlooked around. “Not sure.
Chiefput Daltonincharge ofyou.”Austin
shivered. “Dude, I feelfor you.”
“What do youmean?”Before his
questioncould be answered, Wyatt heard the garage door
openingand a veryloud truck was backingup into the far side
ofthe garage. Whoever was drivingit eased the bigtruck in like
it was a Prius. A group ofmenjumped out ofthe back and
thenWyatt’s heart stopped in his chest. A blonde guyjumped
out ofthe driver’s seat and barked orders at some ofthe other
guys.
Whenhe turned, their eyes met. A look passed
betweenthemand Wyatt felt the hairs onhis arms and back
ofhis neck stand up. Jesus, but he was fuckingdrop dead
gorgeous! Not aninchless thansixthree and rock hard muscle
fromhead to toe. Blonde and beautifulstrode over witha
relaxed confidence that Wyatt would killfor and he felt his
hands beginto sweat. Whenhe opened his mouth,
nothingwould come out. Wyatt saw the smirk onthe blonde
guy’s face. Those smolderingbrownbedroomeyes were
laughingat him.
“YouQuinton?”
Wyatt nodded and put his hand out. “Um, yeah, I meanyes.
Wyatt Quinton. I was ordered…”
“Yeah, yeah, I know. I’mPreston Dalton. I’mincharge
ofyoufor however long the judge sees fit, so drop your shit and
clean the truck.” Withanother smirk onhis face, Prestonjerked
his thumb towards the rigthey had just gottenout of. “It needs
to be washed thenwaxed.”
“Huh?”Wyatt looked at the monster fire truck covered inmud,
mouthagape.
“Haven’t youever washed a car? There’s a hose onthe side
ofthe buildingand allthe stuffto washher is inthat first cabinet.”
Prestonpointed towards the row ofcabinets bythe end ofthe
truck. He took his jacket off and threw it onthe benchinfront
ofa row of lockers.
Prestonwatched as Wyatt just stood there, mouthopen.
Jesus, the shit he could do to that mouth. Hell, he thought, the
things he could put init.
“Yo, Quinton.”
“Yeah, I’monit.”Wyatt made his waytowards the truck
mumblingunder his breath.
“What’s that?”
Prestonsmiled; he could hear Wyatt callinghima jackass
amongother things. Werewolfhearingdid have its perks.
“Nothing, boss. I’llget right onit.”
Two hours later after Wyatt had gottenmost ofthe mud offthe
monster truck; the alarms went offinthe firehouse. Mencame
downthe pole and Wyatt watched inawe as theyallslid down,
one after another. Preston, or “Attila the Hun”as probie told
Wyatt he was called, was the first one downand running right
towards him.
“I’mnot done!”Wyatt looked at the truck againthenback at
Preston.
“Don’t have time,”Prestonpushed Wyatt out ofthe wayand
grabbed his helmet. “Move it guys!”Prestonjumped inthe cab
and smiled downat Wyatt. “Better hope we don’t
runthroughmud again.”Prestonlooked at Wyatt’s face; Jesus he
wanted himeven more thanbefore.
“Youcanstart ondinner for the guys. Everythingyouneed is
inthe kitchen.”
“Wait!”Wyatt had to yellover the engines loud roar. “What do
I make?”
“Figure it out, service boy.”Preston winked and rolled out.
Wyatt felt his anger rising. “Service boy? Oh, hell no.”
Wyatt gritted his teethand looked for the kitchen. He found
Austinat the longtable readinga book. “I was told I had to
make dinner so what do I make?”
“I don’t know, what do youknow how to make?”Austinsat
back and watched Wyatt rummagingthroughthe cabinets and
three refrigerators.
“I canmake awesome lasagna, would that work?”Wyatt found
allthe pans and looked throughthe pantries. He found sauce,
cheese, meat, noodles and various spices. “Good, everythingI
need is here. How many pans should I make?”
“Withthese guys?”Austinarched a brow. “How manypans do
we have?”
Wyatt sighed. “I get it.”
Four hours later the guys were back fromtheir fire and Wyatt
was pullingsixpans oflasagna out offour ovens. A group of
freshlyshowered menwere filinginto the kitchen, mouths
watering.
Wyatt grabbed the pans and put three onone side ofthe table
and three onthe other. Withintenminutes allsixpans were
emptyand Wyatt felt luckyto have gottenone plate. All inall,
thirteenmensat around the table. What were the odds that he’d
be seated with Prestonright across fromhim? Wyatt couldn’t
stop lookingat him. Whentheir eyes met, Wyatt looked
awayfromthe intense stare and subsequent sneer directed at
himfrom Preston.
Wyatt got to know most ofthe menin the short time theywere
allsittingaround the table. Most ofthemwere prettynice and
asked whyhe was there. Wyatt decided ifhe was goingto be
spendinga lot oftime with these guys, he mayas wellcome
clean.
“Dude, are youfuckingcrazy?”
SeanKnight, the red-haired fireman everyone called ‘BigRed’
laughed at himand Wyatt blushed.
“I know it was stupid. Trust me. I’m payingfor it now.”
“And you’llkeep onpaying, service boy.”Prestonstood up and
looked at the table ofmen. “Let’s get some rest guys, fires
don’t wait onanyone.”Prestonlooked at the mess onthe table
and smiled at Wyatt. “K.P. duty, Wyatt, cleanthis shit up.”
“What?”Wyatt looked at Preston incredulously. “Youcan’t be
serious!”
“Hey, Preston- Chaz, Cole and I can help the
guyout,”Seansaid.
“No.”Prestonlooked right into Wyatt’s eyes and leaned into his
face. “Come see me whenyou’re done and I’llshow you where
you’re sleepingtonight.”
Two hours later, after sweating profuselyand cursinglike a
trucker, Wyatt had finished allthe dinner dishes and cleaned up
the kitchen. He set up allfour
coffeemakers, makingsure theywere filled to the brim. He was
goingto have to go
shopping. The coffee theyhad was like brown mud and
inSeattle youhad waymore options thanthis sludge.
Wyatt made sure allthe lights were off and walked throughthe
fire stationlookingfor Preston. He found himinthe TV
roomasleep onone ofthe chairs. Prestonhad a tribal tattoo onhis
right bicep that Wyatt didn’t recognize. Eventhoughhe was
Native American, he hadn’t reallybothered to look into his
heritage, a fact his father had brought up more thanonce.
A smooth, tanchest laybarrenfor him to admire and Wyatt’s
eyes took inthe impressive size ofPrestonDalton. His blonde
hair was hangingslightlyinhis eyes; his breathingwas slow and
even. Wyatt put himin his earlytwenties at the most. He
cleared his throat and Prestondidn’t evenflinch. He tried again,
a little louder this time, and was rewarded
whenPrestoncracked openhis sleep-filled eyes.
“Um, I’mdone.”Wyatt looked at Preston’s welldefined
abdominalmuscles and swallowed hard. A soft patchofblonde
hair started right below his naveland disappeared under his
sweat pants. Wyatt watched as Prestonstood up, twisted and
stretched his large frame fromside to side. Wyatt started at the
sight ofa bigblack wolfonPreston’s right shoulder blade.
“Nice ink.”
Prestonturned and looked at Wyatt. “Let’s get youto your bed,
service boy. Another longdayawaits you.”Prestonthrew his
shirt over his right shoulder, hidingthe black
wolfwithgreeneyes. He made his way up the stairs and pointed
to a door.
“That’s the shower and right downthe hallis your room. It’s not
muchbut at least youdon’t have to sleep witha bunchofguys
who snore.”
“CanI ask youa question?”
Prestonturned to look at Wyatt and felt his bodyresponding.
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath; God he wanted to
grab Wyatt and devour him.
“What?”
“What’s your deal? I know I fucked up and I’mhere to fixthat,
so whydo youfeel the need to make it harder onme?”Wyatt
looked into Preston’s eyes and felt his skin break out ina fine
sheenofsweat. Jesus, but the manwas beautiful,
everythingabout him called to Wyatt.
Ignoringhis head, Preston’s dick led himcloser to Wyatt and he
leaned over him, lookingdeep into his eyes.
“Youdon’t think before youact, Quinton. Youcould have a
record for what youdid. Breakingand enteringis a serious
crime. Youtook somethingthat didn’t belong to youand
eventhoughyougave it back you caused a mana great
dealofpain. Did you know that DeanSmith’s father was at that
game withhim? His dad caught the ballfor his sonand it’s the
one thinghe treasures, a last gift fromhis dyingfather. Think
about that tonight.”
Prestonmade his waydownthe hallto his roomand turned to
take one last look at Wyatt.
“Youare goingto have to think about what’s more important:A
guywho willdrag youinto doingsomethingyouknow is wrong
or standingup for yourselffor what’s right. I mayseemlike
anasshole, but life isn’t easy.”
Wyatt leaned up against the walland sighed as Preston’s door
shut.
“God, I’manasshole.”Wyatt dragged his tired bodyinto the
roomand shut the door. A twinbed sat against the walland a
small bookshelfheld severaltitles Wyatt had never read. There
was a smalldresser onthe other side and the walls were bare.
He looked around and found his baghad beenput inthe corner.
Too tired to take a shower, he fellon the bed and closed his
eyes. Tomorrow would be a better day, it had to be.
150