Flight of Fancy

PowerUp! - 5

by

Marie Harte

Chapter One

“What the hell were you thinking?”

Sitting across from his boss’s desk in a room too small to cage the man’s energy, Gavin Caldwell sighed. He’d had better days. Hell, he’d had better months. Ever since the government had shut down the Psychic Warfare Program—the PWP—he’d grown increasingly dismayed about his place with this team. They wanted him to push pencils and crunch numbers. He wanted to save the day.

“Our client needs that fucking book, Gavin. I assigned the case to Aidan for a reason. He had the damn thing all but in his grasp.”

Aidan had been taking his time about it, then. Gavin didn’t say anything, not with his boss practically breathing fire. Yet even pissed off like nobody’s business, Jack Keiser exuded sex appeal. The man looked like he used trees for toothpicks. Broad shoulders, thick muscles, and a square jaw, he treated compromise like a four-letter word—an arrogance that Gavin found incredibly sexy.

Gavin had spent plenty a sleepless night fantasizing about his ideal sexual partner, an appealing lover with Aidan’s looks and a bit of Jack’s attitude. Total fiction, because Aidan irked the hell out of him, and Jack took domineering to an all-new level. It was Jack’s way or the highway.

Gavin had a bad feeling he’d soon be seeing the highway.

“Well?” Jack’s ice-gray eyes flashed with irritation.

What the heck do I have to lose? Gavin took a chance and blurted the truth. “You don’t need me here.”

A pause. “Explain.”

Frustrated and tired of being the bitch boy, Gavin did. “Ever since you started the PowerUp! gym, I’ve been your go-to man for money matters. Sure, I train downstairs with the guys, but that’s as close to fieldwork as I ever go. The physical stuff keeps my mind sharp so I can balance the books. I make sure we’re legit. I tell you when we’re overbudgeted. And I deal with our mysterious client—Owen Stallbridge—every other week.”

Jack pinched the bridge of his nose. “If he keeps opening his big mouth to everyone about who he is, why is he insisting I keep his name under wraps?”

Probably to outdick you. Like Jack, Owen had major control issues. Gavin cleared his throat. “Thing is, Jack, I was a part of the PWP as more than an administrator.”

“Until you washed out. Yeah, I know.”

Trust Jack to bring up an unpleasant truth. “Well, okay. But I was young when that happened.” And they’d put him through rigorous training to get back into fighting shape while using his mad math skills to increase funding. Then they’d closed down the damn program before he could show them he wasn’t a total fuckup in the field.

“Young? That was four years ago. And you’re what, twenty-seven, right? Not too young to take responsibility for fucking up, in my book.”

“I’d never done anything remotely interesting with my life before the PWP recruited me. College, academics.” The chess team, but he didn’t think that would win him any points. “That was it. Then I was thrown into a world full of spies, freaky SEALs, and psychic villains. Cut me some slack for being overwhelmed.”

When Jack raised a brow but said nothing, Gavin flushed. “I shouldn’t have jumped on this case. I admit it. But it seemed so easy. Find a book; bring it in. Research, and a trip to pick up the item. Simple. How was I to know someone else had plans to grab it?”

“If you’d been assigned the case, you would have known there was a problem from the beginning. That book is important to Stallbridge, our client,” Jack added through gritted teeth. “He’s spouting life-and-death shit over whatever’s in that antique pillow book.”

Gavin frowned. “I actually skimmed through it, you know. It’s not a pillow book. It’s a novel of erotica, a fictional account of the Stallbridge heritage, according to Owen’s great-grandfather, and very well written. Johann Stallbridge is revered in the field.”

“Skip it, Gavin. What can you tell me about the book that’s of value? And I don’t mean different sexual positions.”

Gavin flushed. “It’s old, authenticated, and worth a tidy nest egg due to Johann’s skill with a pen and the famous Stallbridge name.”

Owen Stallbridge had millions, and if the latest edition of the Money Mag held true, had recently entered the billionaire club. He dabbled in everything from oil and gold to stocks and properties and couldn’t seem to lose.

Added to that, Stallbridge had a quiet connection to the paranormal. Over a year ago, a warehouse of his had been robbed, and several items had gone missing. Items with unusual properties that men like Jack and their psychic team tracked down and brought back.

Stallbridge intrigued Gavin on several levels, but it was his missing novel that had given Gavin a new lease on life. If he could show Jack and the others he had more to offer than book sense, maybe they wouldn’t look down on him so much. Maybe he could fit in. It didn’t help he was one of the youngest and most inexperienced on the team.

He apologized once more. “I’m sorry, Jack. I was so close to coming home with it. I looked through it, saw it was the book we were looking for. But the broker wouldn’t budge until he checked with his boss. Next thing I know, it’s sold to someone else. It’s beautiful prose. I can see why someone else would want it.”

“I don’t give a shit if the book lists Stallbridge’s grocery list. He wants it back, and he’s paying us a fortune to get it for him.”

“Strictly speaking, he hasn’t paid us yet. The other money we received was for his items already retrieved.”

“We’re on retainer,” Jack growled.

Literally growled.

Gavin swallowed hard. If he had half of Jack’s muscle, maybe he’d feel less intimidated. But of all the members of the PowerUp! staff, he only topped Ian in size. Ian’s power lay in his devastatingly good looks and his skills as a forger. Gavin didn’t even have that going for him. He’d been described as cute and geeky. Never buff or big, despite that since joining Jack’s team, he’d put on twenty-five pounds of solid muscle.

A glance at his huge boss once again reminded him he didn’t belong. Hell, maybe he’d fooled himself for too long. The PWP had ended. Jack’s ragtag band of psychics living under the radar didn’t need him. Now that the gym had roots and provided a solid cover for their clandestine psychic investigations, they didn’t need Gavin to stick around when any CPA worth his or her salt could do the job.

“Shit.” Jack ran a hand over his cropped hair. “Tell me again how this mess went down, so I can make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

Gavin called on his patience, knowing Jack had a right to demand a detailed explanation. “The file on the book was sitting on your desk when I brought in last month’s invoice.”

“Had to be Ian screwing around with my paperwork,” Jack muttered. “I never keep my files out when I’m not in the office.”

Gavin continued. “Something about the case intrigued me. I mean, it’s a book. All the other stuff we go after for Stallbridge is exotic. Stolen paintings, million-dollar jewelry, that stolen dagger Avery and Nathan just retrieved.”

Jack grimaced. Avery and Nathan had nearly died bringing back that weapon.

“So I thought, a book. I can handle a book. I did some digging on the Internet.” And fished through several secure sites, but Jack didn’t need to know that. Bad enough Gavin wasn’t supposed to work on real cases. Only Ian supposedly had the skills to hack illegally into secured servers. “I found Chronicles after a lot of research and followed the trail to Fort Collins, Colorado. The broker was an older woman with no ties to Stallbridge or anyone with a grudge against him that I could find. She didn’t know much more than we did, only that her buyer was a woman with plans to pick up the thing a few days later…” Gavin grimaced. “I still don’t understand how it slipped through my fingers. I mean, I literally had the thing in my hands. I thought for sure I could buy it out from under her.”

“You tipped off whoever was after it. That’s why she showed up early to nab it. Chronicles went from LA to that rinky-dink bookstore in Fort Collins, where Nathan and Avery tried to find it. That bookstore owner sold it to an average-looking woman with no distinguishing characteristics and a fake name. An actual person at least, but she vanished into thin air. With nothing more to go on that that, we’re back to square one.”

Not necessarily. “Nathan and Noah can’t help?” Nathan knew things about an object by touching it, and Noah could read the past.

“They’re busy on other things. Aidan has this. Or should I say, had this.” Jack fumed.

Gavin knew trying to convince Jack to let him redeem himself wouldn’t fly. Not now. “Want me to pack my things and leave?” It hurt to say, but he was tired. Life hadn’t turned out the way Gavin had expected. And Bend, Oregon, hadn’t given him much more than a cold in the eleven months he’d been working at the PowerUp! gym. His fresh start had turned into one more dead end.

“What for?”

“I think that’s obvious. I screwed up the case.”

“We’ll fix it,” Jack said, his voice gruff with irritation or resignation; Gavin couldn’t tell which. “I want you here, where I can keep an eye on you.”

“I’m not a kid to be watched over.” Gavin’s anger flared out of nowhere, pushing aside his despair. “I don’t need you to coddle me, for Christ’s sake. If you can’t treat me the way you do everybody else, I’m fucking leaving.”

Jack said nothing, but Gavin had a feeling he’d surprised the big man.

After a moment of silence, Gavin stood and turned to the door, fully prepared to pack up his belongings and move out.

“Hold on, hothead.”

Gavin turned to see Jack’s lip curled in what passed for a grin on his face. “Go work off some steam. You’re off desk duty as of now and on a strict physical regimen. See Kitty tomorrow morning for details. Don’t be late.”

Gavin didn’t understand his boss’s change in mood. One minute the guy looked like he wanted to strangle him; the next he offered what Gavin had been after for months. A chance to be a real part of the team, a chance to do field ops. With nothing better to do, he nodded and left, wondering about this change in circumstance.

On his way out of the building, he ran into Aidan Marshall, telepath and all-around pain in Gavin’s ass. The guy could read minds, and he had a bad habit of finishing Gavin’s sentences. The tall blond usually sneered instead of spoke, but he always got the job done. Gavin knew the others considered Aidan one of their top go-getters. Before the PWP disbanded, he’d had a sterling reputation as a fierce agent and badass who didn’t take no for an answer.

Unfortunately, he was also built like a god and had killer good looks. Way out of Gavin’s league, which made Gavin’s hostility that much stronger.

“Well, well.” Aidan smirked. “Lost anything else today, cupcake?”

Gavin glared and thought about telling the bigger man to kiss his own—

“No sense in kissing my own ass when so many others are angling to do it.”

Aidan never screwed with the others. Only Gavin had that privilege. Hell. He hated that he couldn’t insult the bastard without Aidan cutting him off. “You’re such an asshole.”

“And yet men love me.”

Aidan also made no secret of the fact he was gay. Gavin had never hidden his own sexuality, but he didn’t share facets of his life with the others. Not that they’d ever invited him to. He’d had all of one date in the time he’d been in Bend, and it had ended with a slap on the back and a promise of a phone call that hadn’t been forthcoming. Good riddance.

“Yeah. If they say they’ll call and won’t, don’t cry over it. Move on with your life. I mean, you’re cute enough that you should be able to get a handjob at least. So what’s the problem, sweetness?”

Gavin shoved Aidan out of his way, ignored Aidan’s laughter, and hurried to his car, not in the mood to deal with anyone else today. Aidan was enough to spoil an already dragging mood.

AIDAN WATCHED THE cute but clueless CPA leave the hallway for the stairs. Another reason why the PWP had no doubt closed its doors. Despite talk that someone higher up had used the agency for other means than approved governmental reasons, Aidan thought the problem lay in their screening process. Years ago, the PWP had taken anyone with a hint of psychic ability and experimented on them. Hello? He could have told them what a problem that would create.

Men and women like most of those on the PowerUp! team were assets. His boss had invited a select few of them to join him when the program shut down. Now they worked at the gym as a front to the real work that kept them happy and busy. Or at least, the work that kept Aidan happy and busy.

He wondered about Gavin Caldwell, one of the PWP’s many mistakes. A guy like Caldwell looked good on paper. He had a high IQ, was easy to train and get along with, and had psychic ability. The power to levitate, also known as transvection, would be great at parties, but seriously, what did Jack see in the guy besides a head for numbers?

Caldwell had a history of screwing up in the field. They’d pulled him in after he’d nearly gotten himself and a fellow agent killed two years ago. Ever since, he’d done time behind a desk, where he flourished. The paper pusher could manipulate numbers like magic. So why did he think he should work missions? Hell, why would he want to?

Aidan shook his head and continued toward Jack’s office. After he knocked and heard Jack’s answer to enter, he pushed through the door and took a seat across from the big man, as he liked to think of him. Unlike the other psychics who at least tried to shield themselves around him—shields he could overcome with a surge of power—Jack was unreadable. Strangely enough, Aidan got the impression his boss did little to shield himself. The guy had a natural wall around his mind that always tempted Aidan to prod, when Aidan knew better than to go in uninvited.

When an inexperienced agent like Caldwell left himself open, though, he took full advantage. And yeah, he admitted he got a kick out of aggravating the cute little geek.

Caldwell’s cheeks turned a rosy red, which made his blue eyes that much brighter. Truth to tell, the guy fit Aidan’s type to a T. He had a smaller, more compact frame that was slender yet toned. Caldwell didn’t seem to have any fat on him, and the few times Aidan had noticed him in the shower, he’d been impressed with Caldwell’s tight ass and surprisingly large cock.

An answering response tingled through Aidan’s groin, and he frowned, disliking the arousal he always felt around the team’s screwup.

“What did you find?” Jack asked, his voice gravelly.

Now Jack was a man Aidan could see many a top bottoming for. Unfortunately for Bend’s gay community, Jack was as straight as they came. From what Aidan knew, his boss had seen a few women during their time in Oregon, but no one steady. Unlike Avery, part of the latest pair of agents to hook up, Jack didn’t appear to be bisexual either.

“Still waiting, Marshall.”

Aidan sighed. “Sorry, boss. I ran into Caldwell on my way in, so give me a minute.”

Jack didn’t comment.

“Okay. We know the book appeared in the States in Philly, then moved west through Wisconsin and Washington. From there it hit California, where I was going to pick it up before the super CPA fucked everything up.”

“Get past it, Aidan. Where is it now, that’s what I want to know.”

Apparently Jack no longer wanted to nail Gavin to the wall. “The woman in Colorado who bought it, oddly enough, sparked something in the saleswoman, who swore she knew nothing more than a general description. I looked deep and found our buyer’s real name. Michelle Nolan.” Aidan had flown out to Fort Collins to investigate after Gavin’s screwup.

Jack frowned, and Aidan further explained. “When the buyer opened her purse and flashed a fake ID, she happened to have her real license tucked away. Gail, the owner of the bookshop, saw it but didn’t realize what she’d seen. It was buried under stacks of books and an obsession with cats, let me tell you.”

Jack grunted. “Good work. The store owner’s okay, though, right?”

“I left her with a little headache. It was unavoidable,” he said to defend himself.

“We don’t hurt civilians.”

“No shit.”

Jack glared.

“I tried my best. It wasn’t easy to get the name, but without some movement, I wouldn’t have found it.” Movement—what Aidan referred to as his method of searching through the brain. He mentally sifted through thoughts and memories, and sometimes his probing brought pain to the subject under scrutiny. Not his problem.

“Fine. So we have a name.” Jack mulled over the idea while Aidan succumbed to temptation and tested his boss’s shields, searching for a crack.

Prying was instinctive, and it passed the time while Jack pondered what to do next. Just once inside Jack’s head, and Aidan would stop. It killed him that he couldn’t see more than a solid, blank wall of thought. He’d read the other members of the PowerUp! team at one time or another and, after that, made it a point to stay out of their heads. They didn’t like his intrusion, but Aidan subscribed to the axiom better safe than sorry. He had to be able to trust the team, to an extent. They all had secrets, but none of them meant him any harm, personally. He could live with that. He just wished he could figure out Jack.

“If you want to walk without a limp, fucking shut it down. Now.”

That Jack spoke in a calm tone while he continued to look through the folder on his desk shocked Aidan out of his intrusion. He hadn’t thought the man could sense the light touch of his mind. “How can you feel that?”

“Same way you work your way into the brain. It’s mind magic.”

Aidan snorted.

“You keep poking, I’ll cut you off at the knees.” Jack lifted his head and pierced Aidan with a wolf-bright glare.

“Uh, okay. Sorry.”

“Right. So what else can you tell me about our newest buyer?”

“Michelle Nolan. A nice girl from Kentucky, now living with some high roller with a thing for kink, specifically, domination.”

“Right up your alley, eh, Aidan?”

How the hell his boss knew of his nighttime proclivities, Aidan couldn’t say. Nor did he care at the moment. They were close to completing the mission, something Aidan always did. He’d never tolerated failure. He couldn’t. So he ignored Jack and continued, “Her boyfriend is Doug Polski. He’s a big name on the D/s scene in select circles in New York, and he’s done time for grand larceny, assault, rape, you name it. But he always manages to find a Get out of Jail Free card. From what I learned, he bought the book for his boss, who happens to be having an intimate party at his beach house this Saturday in Mendocino, California. He’s extended an invite to a ton of deviants with criminal connections spanning the country.”

“So get yourself invited.”

That was what Aidan had hoped Jack might say, yet the cost might be higher than they could afford. “See, the thing is, this party isn’t for your everyday mafioso wannabe. Only bigwigs have been invited, those with a particular fetish for certain things. And they have bankrolls substantially higher than ours. Hell, just getting into the party costs fifty grand. We’d be better off reconning the place, then stealing the thing.” He paused. “Oh, and Polski’s boss? That would be Carl Kerr.”

“Hold on.” Jack scowled. “Carl Kerr, the trust-fund millionaire who owns the seedier half of Portland?”

“The same. He won’t let just anyone into his party either. And he’s known for some deviant shit—I did some digging. He’s into bondage, games, and young men to sate his appetites. Sorry to say, I’m not his type. Too aggressive.”

Jack grunted.

“So unless you have fifty thousand dollars sitting around to pay my way in and a background for me that will stand up to scrutiny and get me included on that party list, we’re done before we’ve started.”

“There’s no point in trying to steal the book unless we know for sure it’s the one we’re looking for.”

“True. My intel could be wrong, and this book isn’t the one our client wants. No point in inviting trouble with these dickheads if we don’t have to. But I think Kerr has it at his beach house. Polski already got paid, from what I hear. A big thank-you from the boss for a job well done.”

“Hell. We’ll need an in.” Jack paused. “Hold on.” He turned away and dialed the phone. A few curt niceties gave way to a discussion about money. Jack hung up and nodded at Aidan. “You’ll have your fifty thou, as well as a cover to get you in.”

Wow. That was serious pull. “Great. Now I just have to find someone I can dominate for a weekend who’ll catch Carl’s eye.” Aidan scoffed. “Seriously. I can work with a fake identity and the money, but going into a Dom party with a new sub won’t work. First of all, I won’t bring a civilian into danger, and second, the only person I can think to work with in this type of situation would be Ian. Kitty’s too hard. She’s a spitfire, not the image we’d need. And with Carl’s penchant for dudes, she’s not the best person for the job anyway. The rest of the guys around here are too big and aggressive to make a suitable partner. Ian’s pretty enough to distract Carl, but he’s such a smart-ass.” Aidan shook his head. “He’s the only guy I can think of, though. I’ll need time to train him. With the party in just a few days, it’ll be tight—”

“No. Not Ian. I’ve got a partner for you.” Jack held up a hand. “And before you start, this isn’t up for discussion.”

Terrific. Aidan just knew he wasn’t going to like Jack’s next words.

“You need to keep this as real as possible to convince Kerr you’re on the up-and-up. I don’t see you pulling this off with a woman.”

Aidan didn’t either, but he’d done worse to bring home a case.

“You need someone to handle, someone who’s already familiar with the book and you, who won’t need to be brought up to speed on more than how to obey when you tell him to.”

“Makes sense,” he said cautiously. So far, he and Jack were on the same page.

“This is going to be dangerous. Finding that book should have been easy, but it’s been one chase after another.”

“No kidding. So are you going to match me up with one of the Cannons, then?” They were the only psychics and mercenaries Aidan knew besides the team. He wouldn’t mind a shot at one of the younger twins, Justin or Kyle. They didn’t fit Kerr’s type, but he could work around that. Both men were brawny and had stamina, but they looked young and were hot. He’d love to order one or both around. Plus, they could no doubt handle themselves in a fight. He wasn’t sure what they could do psychically, but Jack had warned the team to be wary of the Cannons, so Aidan considered them a serious threat.

Jack smiled, and Aidan took an immediate mental step back. “I have someone better in mind.”

A name flashed at Aidan so powerfully, he knew Jack had to have projected it. “Oh shit, no.”

“Oh shit, yes. He’s yours for the duration. Don’t fuck it up. We need that book back to satisfy the client. Period.”

“But—”

“Yes or no? Because I can always give the case to Keegan and James. I’m sure they could pull this off.”

And then everyone would know he’d failed, that he couldn’t handle it, no matter that Gavin had messed up. It had been Aidan’s case to begin with. Hell, the team already looked at him with caution because of his telepathy. He didn’t want to add scorn to the mix. Look at how he viewed Gavin, that perennial screwup.

And speaking of the naive, sexy little nerd, “But he’s—”

“Yours to get up to speed. He’s smaller than you, and he wears innocence like a second skin. Get him all starry-eyed and mission-ready, and you might be surprised at what he can do.”

“Surprise is something I don’t need in the field,” Aidan muttered.

“You taking the case or not? I have work to do.”

“Hell yeah, I’m taking the case,” he snapped. He stood, but before he could leave, Jack tossed him the file.

“Get started fast. You have five days before you need to be in California. In the meantime, we’ll put together a package for you and your new boy toy. And Aidan? This is important. I have a feeling a lot of our tomorrows rest on this case.”

Aidan didn’t like Jack’s sober warning. But he liked the thought of partnering up with Gavin Caldwell even less. Christ, Gavin’s submissive to Aidan’s dominant? Why not just shoot him in the head and be done with it? He swore to himself all the way home, wondering how the hell he’d make their pseudorelationship work in time for a dungeon party with a well-known crime lord.

JACK STARED AT his empty doorway and frowned. The phone rang, and he picked it up. “Yeah?”

Owen Stallbridge answered, “Testy today, Jack. So you think this lead is real?”

“I just said so, didn’t I?” he growled. When Owen said nothing, the creeping tension climbing Jack’s spine moved faster. “What’s going on?”

“I heard from someone today I hadn’t talked to in months.” Silence. “She needs information from that book. Something’s not right. And if I don’t get the answers she needs, I’m worried we’re going to have a real problem on our hands. And by our, I mean you and me.”

Jack liked Owen, and the bastard knew it. But this was the first time Owen had included Jack in his personal problems. “What do you need me to do?”

“Come over, and we’ll talk. I can’t wait on this any longer, no matter what she says.”

Burning with curiosity—because nothing had fazed Owen in the two years Jack had known him—Jack agreed and said good-bye. He set the phone back in its cradle and left the office.

He ran into Kitty upstairs. Their day manager and resident empath, Kitty kept the gym and the team running smoothly. He didn’t know what he’d do without her. “I have to go, but I’ll be back soon.”

“Roger that.” She gave him a mock salute and grinned, her green eyes bright with enthusiasm. She pulled a rare answering grin out of him, her good mood infectious. “Make sure you watch your back. And drink more water. You look dehydrated.”

“Yes, Mom,” he mocked.

Kitty frowned. “Don’t make me open up a can of whoop-ass, boss. I’m a redhead. We’re known for our tempers.” The woman could calm a raging storm and often did. Temper. Right.

He waved. “I have my cell if you need me. Oh, and have Nathan on standby. I might need him later.”

“Sure thing.” She turned to help a gym patron needing her assistance, and Jack slipped out the door.

Time to fix what was broken. He could only hope Aidan would continue his streak of successes and that Gavin could do what needed to be done. Because if he didn’t let Gavin fix his mistake, he had a feeling the younger man would leave for good. And that he couldn’t let happen.

Chapter Two

Gavin groaned and fell back on the couch. His small condo overlooking the Deschutes River had been pricey but worth it. During the warmer months, he left his patio door open and listened to the rushing water, enjoying the calm that nature brought. Today’s low temperature kept the river’s music muted through the wind-blocking doors, so he lay on his cushy sofa and stared at the ceiling. He did that a lot lately, assessing and reassessing his life.

The need for action pricked beneath the surface. His intuition screamed at him to do something. He just didn’t know what. He’d like to go back to the gym, head downstairs into the underground training area known only to the team, and beat the hell out of someone. Namely, Aidan. The smug bastard.

He clenched his fists as an image of the man intruded on his thoughts. That blond hair was too long, his brown eyes too dark, his physical presence too overpowering. Everything about Aidan was a little too much. Gavin swore. Someday, Aidan would screw up. Mr. Perfect couldn’t be 100 percent right all the time. Gavin just hoped he’d be there when the dickhead tripped over his own feet.

It was easy to pick on Gavin. Yeah, he’d screwed up the first time an enemy had fired real bullets at him. Sue him—he’d frozen. A logical reaction most normal people might have. After freezing up, he’d shot straight up into the air, his fight-or-flight instincts on overdrive. Problem was, bullets could travel up. The smart thing would have been to take cover. At the time, he’d been with his trainer. Caleb Dalton was as big a jerk as Aidan, and the man had torn him a new one after saving his ass.

Did Gavin deserve the reprimand? Probably. But to fix Gavin’s fear, Dalton should have thrown him right back into danger, so that he could get used to life-and-death situations. Instead, Dalton had grounded him and ordered that he put his math degree to work saving the government money, an attitude Admiral London had seconded.

That hurt. Gavin greatly respected the admiral, so he strove to please him by doing the best job he could, even behind a desk. His efforts to be noticed had backfired, though. He’d been too good at his job, and no one wanted to let him return to the field.

“Kind of like now,” he grumbled and blinked when he realized the ceiling looked closer than it had before.

With a muffled oath, he glanced down at the receding couch, now several feet below his body. What he wouldn’t give for a useful talent. Something like Keegan’s powerful telekinesis, or James’s awesome ability to control fire. Aidan, as annoying as he was, could read minds.

Maybe that wasn’t such a good talent to have, Gavin thought as he lowered himself to the sofa once more. The PowerUp! group were a friendly bunch, but even among fellow psychics, Aidan stood apart. Gavin remained distanced because he’d failed and couldn’t bear the disdain he imagined sat at the forefront of the others’ minds. But Aidan always got the job done. It was his mind-reading ability that freaked out the team. Hell, it freaked Gavin out. He hated Aidan picking on him. But he wasn’t a kid. He couldn’t claim the guy bullied him, or he’d look like more of a weakling than usual.

Nobody bullied Jack. Or Keegan, James, Nathan, Avery, Noah, Chloe… He groaned. Ian, the slightest member of their team and newest addition, didn’t take anyone’s shit. Mess with him, and he’d empty your bank accounts or forge documents to land you in jail. Gavin could only threaten to hover high above his opponents. Yeah, big threat.

He sighed, wondering if tomorrow morning would suck as much as he thought it might. There was no way Jack would give him a job in the field. Gavin’s time with Kitty in the morning would no doubt be an exercise in patience, while the pretty empath convinced him to relax. Kitty manipulated emotion, but she seemed to actually like him, unlike the rest of the team.

He’d probably spend his time working out, which would at least ease the psychic pressure building inside him. The gene therapy he’d undergone while the PWP had been active had expanded his talent. He’d only been able to move a few inches off the ground before the program, and the stress from doing even that little bit had produced nosebleeds. Now he could rise dozens of feet into the sky and float without fear of falling. Tomorrow he’d exercise and ignore the computer for once.

Hell, anything was better than crunching more numbers.

Back on the couch, he pulled a blanket over himself and started to drift into a light nap when a knock came at the door. A heavy hand rapped several times, and then the doorbell rang unceasingly.

Gavin tossed aside the blanket, rolled to his feet, and stalked to the door. “Hold on.” Jesus, give me a chance to reach the doorknob at least. He yanked open the door. “What the…hell?”

He stared in shock at an annoyed Aidan Marshall glaring down at him. Without asking, Aidan muscled past him and stopped in the center of the living room. “Nice. Not what I expected.”

Gavin shut the door and frowned as he joined Aidan in the middle of his living room. “Expected? Why are you here? What do you want?”

Aidan didn’t answer. Instead he turned to face Gavin, his intense scrutiny more than uncomfortable. There was an almost personal aspect to his study that alarmed Gavin, because he sensed a toughness in Aidan that would extend beyond the normal day-to-day. He’d be tough with his boyfriends. Demanding. Sexually aggressive.

Not good thoughts to be thinking with the mind reader so near.

Fortunately, Aidan didn’t react at all. The hulking blond circled him, his gaze roaming from Gavin’s hair to his toes. Gavin shivered—from excitement, not the cold—wishing he’d thrown on a sweatshirt to cover the plain white tee he wore.

“You have nice feet.”

“O-kay.” Gavin didn’t know what the hell Aidan was doing in his condo. He followed the man’s gaze to his bare feet, suddenly noticing the cold. Ignoring Aidan for the moment, he turned and moved to the fireplace. With the flip of a switch, he ignited the gas logs.

When he turned around, Aidan was right there, caging him between the mantel and his hard body.

“What—”

Firm lips cut him off. Holy shit was all he could think as Aidan Marshall took command of his mouth. Who knew he could kiss like that, or that the chemistry between them would turn combustible between one heartbeat and the next?

Aidan’s domination flipped that switch inside Gavin that responded to another’s mastery. His secret kink, and the reason he’d rarely found a decent sexual partner. No one could deal with him. Or so he’d thought. Aidan seemed to be handling him just fine.

The kiss deepened, and Gavin couldn’t help the groan that left him, even as he tried to mentally disengage. He didn’t like the man, couldn’t stand his…

“That’s it,” Aidan crooned as he slid a hand between them and cupped Gavin’s erection. “You’re a big boy, aren’t you?”

Fuck if he could think beyond the need to come. Aidan slid his tongue past Gavin’s lips and seduced him with ease. He stroked and led, and Gavin helplessly followed. The hand over his cock grew firmer, rubbing and pushing through the denim. To his astonishment, he felt Aidan’s arousal grinding into him as well.

The sheer unreality of the moment shocked him into taking charge. He ripped away from Aidan and shot into the air so fast he almost hit his head on the vaulted ceiling. Embarrassed, aroused, and confused, he allowed himself to drift lower so that his feet remained level with Aidan’s throat.

“Well, now. Never would have expected that.” Aidan grinned, his brown eyes dark with lust. “You’re a surprise, Gavin.”

“What the fuck are you doing?” Furious that he sounded out of breath and that he’d responded to Aidan of all people, he remained in the air, wishing he had the ability to make Aidan disappear.

Aidan’s grin left him. “We have business.”

“Bullshit. I had enough of you today. Get lost.” He paused. “And don’t touch me again.” Bad enough he had the guy in his brain, but now his touch was branded on Gavin’s cock. His secret fantasies loomed perilously close to turning into a nightmare. If Aidan knew how many times he’d starred in Gavin’s X-rated dreams…

Aidan didn’t move. He didn’t blink.

In a split second, he leaped forward and grabbed Gavin by the ankle. One hard tug and Gavin fell to the ground. His ass landed first, but Aidan managed to cradle his head so Gavin didn’t knock himself unconscious. Still, he’d hit. Hard.

Before he could catch his breath, Aidan straddled his belly and pinned his wrists to the wood floor. “I’m trying to do you the courtesy of not looking into your mind, but you broadcast like crazy. You have to learn how to shield yourself better if this is going to work.”

“Damn it.” Gavin tried but couldn’t pull his hands free from the behemoth holding him down. He wished like hell this position wasn’t something straight out of his hidden desires, where, after holding him down, his partner would force him to suck cock. A collar and leathers were also involved, some nipple clamps… He cleared his throat and prayed he wasn’t showing the blush working its way over his cheeks. “What’s going to work?”

“You and me on the Chronicles case. I found it again. We’re going to hit a party in California in a few days. Until then, we have to come to some terms. Partner.” Aidan choked on the word.

“What?” Was he dreaming? Gavin wanted a big man to take charge and order him around, but not the blond jerk who poked fun at him all the time. Well, not the Aidan he knew in real life. He wanted the Aidan he jacked off to, the arrogant yet tender dream of a Dom who didn’t exist.

Aidan sighed. “Trust me. I worked like hell to figure out a way not to use you, but if I don’t, I’m off the case too. So it’s you and me, working to get the book back.” He leaned forward and tried to kiss Gavin again, but Gavin turned his head and fought for control of his whacked-out libido. Great time for his sexual hiatus to come to a close. But with Aidan?

Instead of forcing his face back, Aidan chuckled and sucked Gavin’s earlobe. The action had a direct impact on Gavin’s cock. To his horror, the hint of an orgasm crept closer.

“We’re going undercover to a kinkfest. We have to pretend to be partners. Sexual partners, the kind where I control and you submit,” Aidan whispered and stuck his tongue in Gavin’s ear. “Hmm. Yeah. I think this just might work.”

“Wait.” Gavin tried like hell to move Aidan, but the big bastard didn’t twitch, despite Gavin’s gyrations.

“That feels good. Keep doing that.” Aidan chuckled, the unfamiliar humor as startling as this facet of the man himself. “Look, this isn’t me dicking around with you. We’re going to have to get dirty to get the book back.”

“I—Get off me.” When Aidan didn’t budge, Gavin gritted his teeth. “Please?”

Aidan sat up and released Gavin’s hands. But he didn’t move from his position right over Gavin’s crotch, and the pressure was unbearably erotic.

“Okay. I’m not getting off, mind you, but I’m off.”

“Smart-ass. All the way off my body.”

“No. I’m not kidding about this. I wouldn’t have taken it this far, but I needed to know.”

“Know?”

“If we’re compatible. I mean, you’re cute and all, but submission is a tricky thing.”

“You think I’m cute?” Gavin’s voice cracked, and he flushed.

Aidan laughed. “Yeah. Especially now. That innocence is so tempting. Jack was right. You do look a lot younger than you are.”

Gavin didn’t need the reminder. “Great. So I’m supposed to go to a party with you. Undercover, right?”

Aidan nodded. “Jack’s orders.”

Undercover as sexual partners. The thought brought back the reality that he hadn’t had a lover in months.

“The guy who we think has the book is into kink. He likes to throw wild parties, where everyone participates. We’ll need to look real. My expertise is being in charge. You’ll be my sub, and I’ll be your Master.” Aidan looked at him without amusement, and Gavin swallowed hard. “I don’t have to read your mind to know you’re hot for me. Not when your body is so obvious about what it needs.”

“Bull. It’s been a while is all.” A less embarrassing truth than that he felt attraction for Aidan.

Aidan shook his head. “I thought Jack was out of his fucking mind. But I think this might work. You followed the book’s trail to Fort Collins. I found and tracked down the woman who bought it for Carl Kerr, a crime lord with his fingers in Portland’s pockets. He’s hosting a party this coming Saturday in Mendocino to meet new friends and expand his criminal empire. From what I’ve gathered, a book that matches the Chronicle’s description will be there, and we’ll get to see if it’s the genuine deal.”

“I get that. But why this crap about sex games? Why don’t you just go steal the thing if you know it’ll be there?”

“Kerr is smart and has a lot of muscle. I’m all for kicking down the door, but even Jack agreed we should do this as quietly as possible. So our best bet is to buy our way in. Kerr likes orgies, dungeons, discipline sessions… And he’s into men who look like you. Pretty, vulnerable.” Aidan settled more of his weight over Gavin. “Men who get off playing bondage games.”

Gavin swallowed hard. This wasn’t happening. “Not that I’m admitting I’m into any of that, because I’m not, but you said I’m Kerr’s type. So I’m going to be bait?”

“More like a distraction. Jack’s building us a cover. We go in, you distract Kerr while I nab the book. Once we verify it’s what we want, we take off with it. Or not. If it’s not the book we’re after, we leave, no harm, no foul. A lot of heavies will be there, so we don’t want to screw with anyone if we don’t have to. No sense in bringing trouble to our door.”

Especially not with Uncle Sam still keeping an eye on them. Gavin knew of at least two federal agents who kept an eye on the PowerUp! gym, making sure the psychics working there didn’t go crazy and burn down the town. It still boggled Gavin’s mind that burning down the town—literally—was a possibility with the guys he worked with.

He shook his head and tried again to clarify what sounded like a stupid plan. “But it’s okay to make an enemy of Kerr if he stole the book? If he’s as dangerous as you seem to think he is, he won’t be real forgiving when the book disappears at the same time we do. And I’m not big on being anyone’s distraction.” Yet he realized this might be the only way to prove to Jack and the team he could do the job.

“Don’t worry. When I say distraction, I mean Kerr will be so into watching the way you respond to me, he’ll be all over himself trying to figure out a way to buy some playtime.”

“Buy me?” Gavin didn’t know whether to be insulted or flattered.

“Bribes, money, something. The guy has a habit of trading lovers for favors. And no price is too high to meet his needs.”

“This isn’t making me feel any better.”

“Don’t worry. If Kerr has the book, and I’m ninety-nine percent sure he does, I’ll deal with him.”

“Yeah? How?”

“You leave that to me.”

The grim expression on his face made Gavin shiver. Aidan wasn’t someone he wanted to cross. He wondered if the rumors about the telepath being able to manipulate minds had some merit. “So, uh, you’re not going to read my mind anymore, right?” Could he trust the bastard to keep his word?

“I’ll try not to. You broadcast particularly loud. Didn’t you pay attention to the classes about shielding yourself?”

“That was over three years ago.” Back when the PWP had been shoving physical training, self-defense, and weapons classes down his throat in between gene-altering drug therapy.

“So the answer is no, then.” Aidan shifted over him, rubbing against Gavin’s erection that refused to quit.

“Would you get the hell off me? I haven’t agreed to partner you in anything.”

“But you will. Because if you don’t, this op won’t work. I can’t take Ian. He’s too smug, and let’s face it, too beautiful.”

“Oh, but I’m not?”

“No. You’re handsome in a clean-cut, all-American kind of way. Boy-next-door good looks. And a big cock. That’s a plus.” Aidan grinned again, stunning Gavin at how attractive it made him. “And thank you.”

Gavin started. “Huh?”

“I consider myself attractive, but it’s nice to hear it from you. That will help our partnership.”

“Damn it. Get out of my head.”

“Make me.” Aidan finally moved back and planted himself on Gavin’s thighs. “Do you want to be a field agent or not? Your choice. The way I see it, Jack’s giving you a shot to make up for insubordination. You took a case you weren’t assigned, and then you screwed it up.” Aidan stared down at him. “He doesn’t give a lot of second chances.”

Gavin knew that. As much as he didn’t want to work with Aidan, he would. To make things right, to gain some respect, and hell, to have the street cred he’d been dying for.

“Fine. But this is for the op. You help me; I help you. And that’s it.”

Aidan nodded.

“Attraction is physical. It doesn’t mean I like you.”

Aidan nodded again, but the laughter in his eyes bothered Gavin.

“Fuck off.”

“I will.” Aidan’s grin left him, and a hardness darkened his gaze. “Now it’s time to see what you’re made of. I know I can do this, but can you?”

“I can do whatever’s needed to get the job done.” And he would.

“Prove it. Unbutton your jeans and take yourself out. Display yourself for me. I guarantee when we’re there, you’ll be naked as often as you’re clothed.”

Gavin didn’t know about that. Some part of him still wondered if Aidan’s visit wasn’t just a ruse. Because every time Aidan brought up another test Gavin would need to overcome, he tapped deeper into Gavin’s fantasies. Bondage, submission, exhibition…

“Did you not hear what I said?”

“Okay, okay.” Gavin wished he didn’t feel so embarrassed. He had a nice body, and he’d never had a problem watching other people in clubs. But Aidan made it so much more personal. He tried hard to block the man from his mind as he freed himself from his constricting jeans.

“Nice. You’re big and thick.” Aidan’s hand wrapped around him, and Gavin couldn’t stifle a groan. “And wet.” Aidan’s thumb slid over his wet cockhead. He took his hand away and sucked his thumb.

Gavin had a hard time breathing, his gaze fixed to Aidan’s lips. His desire for Aidan’s mouth around him must have been evident, because Aidan sucked harder.

Aidan pulled his thumb out and stared at it. “Glossy. I like seeing my spit on a fat cock. Watching as it leaves my mouth, all wet and shiny.”

Gavin’s breath came faster.

“But if you want me to suck you off, you have to earn it. You have to please your Master.”

“I don’t know about this.” But Gavin knew. He didn’t want to, but he knew.

“And no lying. Tell the truth, boy. What do you want to do right now?”

Gavin fought against it but, knowing Aidan could read him easily if he wanted to, settled part of his qualms about sharing. He probably already had.

“Say it out loud,” Aidan murmured and reached between Gavin’s legs to rub his balls.

“Oh fuck.” Gavin moaned. “I like it, okay? I like the whole domination thing. I want to be bossed around, held down, displayed. I want to bend over and take it hard up the ass.” The truth felt freeing, and the firmer hand over him, now stroking his cock, seemed to be his reward. “I want to be owned.”

Aidan nodded, his gaze glued to Gavin’s. “There’s no shame in that,” he said quietly. He seemed to be taking this seriously.

“Not to someone like you.”

Aidan’s hand stilled. “Someone like me?”

Gavin reached out and touched Aidan’s knee. Oddly enough, he wanted more contact with the man. “Someone so sure of himself. Someone dominant, commanding. I’m just a pussy, a loser to make fun of.”

“You’re not a loser.” Aidan cleared his throat and moved closer. He leaned down, and his belly brushed Gavin’s cock. They remained a breath apart when Aidan added, “A geek, maybe. You’re not a pussy, just a clumsy newbie who took initiative at the wrong time.” The nicest words Aidan had ever said to him. “On this op, the most important thing for you to remember—you’re mine.”

Then he kissed Gavin, and the rest of the world fell away.

SOMEHOW, GETTING GAVIN comfortable with his role became secondary to watching the man come. Aidan kissed him, getting accustomed to his taste and feel. He’d told the truth when he’d said Gavin was his type. Smaller, pretty but not too pretty, and wholesome. He looked like he needed a bit of darkness to balance him, and Aidan had plenty of that.

The mental bombardment he’d expected hadn’t come. He still got hints of Gavin’s thoughts, but nothing derogatory bled into him. Gavin was more concerned about how he appeared to Aidan than about Aidan himself. He didn’t hate or fear Aidan’s telepathy. The younger man wanted equality and respect—two things Aidan had been fighting for his whole life.

Learning Gavin’s secrets put a damper on his annoyance with Gavin’s mistake over the book. He knew all too well what it felt like to not belong, but he hadn’t thought his ribbing had been so hard on the CPA. No one seemed to care what Aidan said. Who knew Gavin had been so sensitive?

He wondered if the boy—as he would now think of him—would be as sensitive all over. He’d gleaned that Gavin hadn’t been with anyone in a long time, that his new partner was clean, lonely, and into his share of kink that Aidan was more than happy to explore. But their close physical and psychic connection had an odd side effect. Gavin’s nearness seemed to ease the tension Aidan normally carried. The intense lust overwhelmed his need to shield himself.

He deepened the kiss and felt Gavin’s firm chest brush his own. He reached between them to stroke those hard little nipples through the cotton of a thin T-shirt.

“Yeah, oh God. Suck them. Please.” Gavin was humping him, that thick cock a treat Aidan couldn’t wait to taste. But he needed to remember that their chemistry had to lead to more. Not just a fuck, but a fuck between equal yet different partners. A master and a submissive. Two halves of a whole.

The dynamic should have scared him. Aidan hadn’t been with a true partner in far longer than he cared to remember. Quick, safe, meaningless sex had been his world for years, ever since his abilities had expanded, thanks to the PWP. But this connection with Gavin had come out of nowhere. It would have troubled him, except that Aidan lived for the mission, and he needed their closeness to succeed.

Aidan leaned up and stared at Gavin’s flushed face and wet lips. “You’re a good boy, aren’t you?” He gripped Gavin’s hair, aware Gavin’s breathing quickened.

“Yes.”

“Yes, Sir.”

Gavin moaned and closed his eyes. “Yes, Sir.”

“I didn’t tell you to close your eyes. Look at me.”

Gavin opened them immediately, his blue eyes so bright they seemed to light up the room.

“Take off your shirt. Then your pants, but remain on the floor.” Aidan stood and stripped naked. He watched Gavin do the same. “No underwear?”

“Ah, not today.”

Aidan caught Gavin’s embarrassment and chuckled. “Not a problem. Makes it easier for me to see all of you. Now lie down and don’t move.” He noted the many times Gavin’s gaze strayed from Aidan’s face down to his cock. The underlying worry that Aidan would bruise him satisfied because a few short bursts of longing from Gavin assured him his boy also liked a hint of pain. Not a lot, but enough to label his sex rough. Yet another instance of their similar sexual tastes.

Aidan didn’t want to push him too far this first time. He wanted to learn about his boy. And for his boy to learn about him.

“We’re going to do a lot of fucking this week, Gavin.” He walked over and straddled Gavin’s body, so that when Gavin looked up, he saw the underside of Aidan’s balls. “We need to learn each other. I’m not sexually active at the moment—well, not counting today.”

“I—”

“And I know you’re good to go.” Aidan lowered to his knees, pleased to see Gavin’s eyes widen. He licked his lips and stared at Aidan’s sac. “So we’re going to play a bit and get to know each other better. We’re going to be so tight that by the end of this op, I’ll know how many times I can make you come before you beg me to stop. I’ll know how far I can push you, and how strong your mental shields will have grown. We’ll be a real team, because we can’t chance a slipup around Kerr and his friends.” Aidan would pull out every stop for a mission. If he had to trust Gavin to watch his back, he’d make sure the guy knew exactly what to do. He’d train the fuck out of him before they went live. And he’d make sure his partner obeyed him to the last letter.

He glanced down at himself to see his cock hard and his slit wet, his enjoyment and arousal real, no matter the reason for their pretense.

“A team,” Gavin repeated.

“Yes. You’ll do what I tell you when I tell you. This is your first test, boy.” Recalling his boss’s advice, he said, “Don’t fuck it up.”

Chapter Three

Gavin wanted to argue, but he couldn’t look away from Aidan’s body. The man was seriously hung and built like a berserker. Huge muscles everywhere, and a cock that would hurt so good when it slid inside him. He wanted to suck the man dry, and he intentionally projected the thought as hard as he could, tired of waiting for Aidan to make his move.

He couldn’t see Aidan’s face, only his thick sac and that long, fat cock. Jesus, he wanted it. He couldn’t believe this man had turned him into a raging slut. He’d never wanted anyone this much before, but Aidan—mean, gruff, bitchy Aidan—had almost made him come just by grazing his cockhead through his jeans.

“Are you doing this to me?” he blurted.

“Doing what?”

“Making me want you like this.” It was chancy to reveal that truth, but the telepath probably knew already. “Can you manipulate minds?”

Aidan paused. “I’m not doing anything to you right now, just being. Shut up and suck my balls. One at a time.”

He lowered himself to Gavin’s mouth, and Gavin latched on to his testicle. He loved the indrawn breath and curse that came out of Aidan’s mouth. He sucked and licked, pleased when the larger man rocked over him. Aidan’s cock was so thick, bigger than Gavin’s. He wanted to feel that in his mouth, down his throat. He wanted to suck until Aidan exploded, then watch the man’s face as he emptied into Gavin.

“Stop thinking so loud.” Aidan’s voice was hoarse. “Now the other one. Suck it, boy. Deep in your mouth. Curl your tongue around me. That’s it.” He slowly scooted back, holding his huge cock as if for show. “Get up.”

Gavin scrambled to his feet.

“Jerk yourself off for me.”

Gavin didn’t know about that. He was good with all of it, or so he’d thought. But masturbating seemed too intimate. Weird, but—

Aidan grabbed him by the hair and yanked him close. “When I give you an order, you obey.”

Gavin groaned, enthralled with the firm grip on his hair. The bite of pain made him that much harder, and so close, he couldn’t help brushing against Aidan, feeling the other man’s stiff dick against his belly.

“Yes, baby. That’s right.”

Baby. He shivered.

“Now come for me. Nothing exists for you but what I tell you. Forget everything else. Close your eyes if you need to. Take yourself in hand and come.”

Aidan let him go.

Closing his eyes made it easier, and Gavin started rubbing himself, pulling harder and harder on his cock while Aidan watched. For my Master, a thrilled part of him reminded. Submitting to someone definitely stronger, meaner, and deserving.

Gavin cupped his balls with his other hand and warned, “I’m gonna come. So hard…” He didn’t think he could stop if Aidan ordered him to.

“I won’t have you stop this time,” Aidan murmured. “Come, Gavin.”

With a groan, he spurted, the orgasm wringing him out. The emotional upheaval added to the climax, and he felt weak at the knees as he emptied all over Aidan’s belly. That he’d spent on the man supposed to be his Master gave him a sense of possession that he liked. And as he finished spending, he stared at the smear over Aidan’s ripped belly.

“Yeah, you like that. I do too. But mine is going even deeper.” Aidan grabbed Gavin by the arm. “Now get on your knees and take me to the back of your throat. I assume you’ve blown a guy or two before?”

Gavin blushed. “I might not be as experienced as you, but I’m not a virgin.”

“Good.” Aidan waited patiently while Gavin moved to his knees.

Then there was no more talking, only grunting and groaning as Aidan’s fat cock wedged into Gavin’s mouth. Gavin gagged a few times before accustoming himself to Aidan’s length. The man lasted longer than he’d thought, but soon enough Aidan jetted on an oath, his hands gripping Gavin’s shoulders.

“All of it, boy. Don’t lose a drop,” he growled.

Gavin sucked and licked him dry, leaving no chance of that.

Aidan softened, and still he didn’t pull out.

Gavin waited, wondering when he would have some respite. And then Aidan withdrew.

“Good boy. You waited for me.” Aidan cupped his cheek. “This is going to be a fun workup. Just as long as you remember why we’re doing this.”

No romantic entanglements. No dreams of a future, and especially not with Aidan. Just sex and a mission to complete. Gavin could more than handle that—or so he kept telling himself. He stood. “You don’t need to remind me.”

Aidan nodded, his expression no longer open but shuttered. “Come to my house tomorrow. Nine o’clock. Bring nothing but yourself. You’ll be with me until we leave for the California coast, so take care of anything else needing your attention for the next week at least.”

“I’m supposed to train with Kitty tomorrow.”

Aidan just watched him. Another test?

Gavin hated tests. “Fine. I’ll be at your place, no later than nine.”

Aidan dressed in silence after using Gavin’s shirt to clean himself. He let himself out without another word.

Baffled by the strange turn his life had suddenly taken, Gavin locked the door, ventured into the kitchen, and poured himself a huge beer. After downing the contents in a few long swallows, he went straight to bed.

* * *

He didn’t wake until eight forty-five the next morning. “Shit.” He stared bleary-eyed at the clock, sure there had to be a mistake. He’d never slept so long before. Then again, he’d never had his entire world upended by Aidan Marshall either.

He hurried to find out where the man lived. Then he dressed and made the phone calls he needed to Kitty and a few neighbors before locking up behind him. By the time he arrived at Aidan’s home, isolated in the mountains—go figure—he was forty-five minutes late.

He knocked and waited.

Aidan opened the door a moment later, his expression unreadable.

“Look, I slept late. My mistake. And then I had to—”

Aidan held up a hand. “We’ll talk about that later. Come in.” He stood back, and Gavin entered into a surprisingly comfortable home. He put his bag on the floor and looked around. An open layout with maple built-ins framed a stone fireplace. Wood floors, aqua-blue walls, and leather furniture that screamed expensive without looking pretentious gave the place a sophisticated but homey feel Gavin wouldn’t have equated with Aidan. He’d have pictured the guy with a lot of black, glass, and chrome. Yet he liked the thought of Aidan in this place. Classy, clean, and uncluttered—a lot like the man before him.

Aidan wore jeans and an untucked, open-collared white shirt that exposed the strong cords of his throat. An instinct to bite and mark the man came out of nowhere. Gavin turned a suspicious look on his new partner, still not sure Aidan wouldn’t fuck with his psyche just for fun, but Aidan was frowning down at his cell phone.

“Problem?”

Aidan looked up. “Kitty isn’t happy with me. She apparently wanted to review a few things with you before handing you over to me. She’s a mother hen who has a hard time not clinging.”

“She’s nice.”

“Too nice.” Aidan snorted. “Empathy is all well and good, but our job is to acquire a book, not fall in love or feel sorry for the criminals who stole it.”

Gavin flushed. “I wasn’t suggesting either. I just—”

“I know. Sit down. We need to review the file. Coffee?”

Aidan’s turn in manners took him aback. “Ah, yeah.” He thought he’d be treated like a virtual slave for the next few days and was prepared to handle it. Having Aidan act as though Gavin were a guest threw him for a loop.

He followed Aidan into a bright and tidy kitchen. White cabinets and black granite showcased a chef’s dream kitchen, complete with all the stainless-steel appliances. Gavin wondered if Aidan actually cooked or if this was all for show. To his bafflement, he found himself intrigued by his teammate in a way he’d never been before.

After rounding the kitchen island, Aidan motioned Gavin to sit on a nearby stool while he reached for the coffeepot.

“We need to make a few things clear. Yesterday was a prelude to physical intimacy. That, and I wanted to see you react to being ordered around a little.” Aidan set a steaming cup in front of him. He didn’t offer cream or sugar, which Gavin didn’t use anyway. Then he poured a cup for himself and rounded the island to sit next to Gavin at the counter. He turned his seat so they could face each other. “Sexually, we connect. There’s no need for us to have to fake an attraction. It’s there. That’s good.”

His clinical attitude eased Gavin’s discomfort with his behavior yesterday. He’d been too hot for the guy. Yet Aidan admitted to the attraction too. Good to know they were on equal footing in that at least.

“I watched you, and I learned. You’re a natural submissive, Gavin. Don’t argue the point. Accept it. Like I said before, there’s no shame in being true to yourself.”

Gavin never would have suspected Aidan to be so welcoming or easy to work with. He’d fully expected taunting and more bullying. Then again, Aidan could be setting him up for a punch line sure to come.

Aidan frowned. “I’m not setting you up. Christ. This is serious, and you’re worried the bully on the playground might beat you up?”

“Asshole.” Gavin glared.

“Look. I’m all about the mission. I don’t lose. I don’t screw up,” he directed at Gavin.

Ah, there it is.

“And I’m not used to working with a partner. I work alone, or at least I have since the PWP disbanded. But hey, I’m adaptable. You and I need to be together on this. Jack isn’t budging. No games, no jokes. This is serious. When we’re surrounded by a bunch of sadistic deviants with nothing better to do than slit throats to get off, we need to be there for each other. I can’t afford to have you too scared to fight back, and you can’t afford for me to be a dickhead who’d leave you to fend for yourself. Trust works both ways.”

“True.” The asshole had a point.

“And quit calling me an asshole.”

“Quit acting like one. And stay out of my freakin’ head.”

Aidan paused. To Gavin’s surprise, he laughed. “You’re no one’s boy all the time, that’s obvious.” He studied Gavin and nodded. “A submissive, but no slave. And apparently only in the bedroom.”

“What?”

“Nothing. Just making some notes about you out loud. And yeah, I know you don’t want me in your head. Look, I don’t want to be there either. So after we go through these files, we’re going to work on your shields. Frankly, you suck.”

The word brought back images of Aidan’s cock and what he’d much rather be sucking at the moment.

Aidan drew in a breath. “That link goes both ways. I need to feel your mind to better map safeguards for myself. We’re going to be really close on this op, so it’s natural your barriers wouldn’t be as strong against me as they normally would. And contrary to popular belief, I don’t influence thought. I read it, I sift through it, but I can’t make you do anything you don’t want to.”

“Good.”

Aidan sighed. “Now if you’re done being difficult about things, let’s get down to business.”

AIDAN WATCHED GAVIN out of the corner of his eye while his new partner scanned all the material Jack had dropped off last evening. Notes on Carl Kerr, his estate, and a dozen other baddies who’d be in attendance in just a few more days. It seemed Stallbridge had made an enemy of a powerful man. Carl Kerr controlled the drug and arms trades in the Northwest. And he apparently had a hard-on for Stallbridge. How that book could take down the millionaire, Aidan had no idea. Jack had only mentioned that Chronicles had much more to it than sexual positions and had left it at that. Aidan’s job would be to retrieve it and not get dead. Period.

He had to love his boss for the cut-and-dried delivery. That, and handing him Gavin Caldwell on a platter. He still had a hard time understanding the almost out-of-control lust he’d felt for his new partner. He’d known Gavin for over a year, had been around the man on a consistent basis, and acknowledged the spark of interest he’d always had but suppressed. For Aidan, the job came first. He didn’t have close ties with others, didn’t have any other hobbies or addictions except work.

He knew how uncomfortable he made everyone. None of the guys said much about it, but knowing he could read their thoughts if he put effort into it made him a pariah. He’d never gone where he wasn’t wanted—well, except for reading Gavin and that brief attempt he’d made with Jack—and he had no intention of compromising the one place he felt at home. Jack Keiser was the best boss he’d ever had. The guy didn’t socialize, growled like a wolf with a paw caught in a trap more often than not, and was intimidating enough to command Aidan’s respect. He also liked having Aidan on his team.

But this assignment made Aidan rethink a lot of things. Gavin’s innocence shone like a beacon, and the feel of his firm yet smooth body had rocked Aidan’s perceptions, big-time. How the fuck had he not anticipated Gavin’s kiss? Or how seamlessly they’d connect when they touched? More than a physical joining, their connection gave Aidan a sense of psychic bonding that smacked of emotion, something he had no intention of exploring.

Gavin frowned and turned another page in the file. “This is insane. This guy is really into all this?”

And another thing. His partner might protest his inclinations, but his body didn’t lie. The faker liked being dominated and tied up. A perfect fit for Aidan—a man who needed to be in constant control.

Aidan cleared his throat. He needed to get a handle on his emotions. Lust he could manage. And it would help if he liked the man he had to work with, though amiable feelings weren’t necessary. His biggest worry should have been that Gavin’s inexperience would get him killed. That was if Aidan’s cock didn’t. Hell. Why couldn’t he concentrate on more than Gavin’s mouth? That tight ass? Those soft, pink lips?

“Aidan?” Gavin scowled at him. “Why are you staring at me like that? Are you reading my mind again?”

He sighed. “We need to build some trust. Put the folder away. Time to do those shielding exercises I mentioned.”

Gavin seemed to perk up at that. His excitement made Aidan feel twice his age, when he only had six years on his naive partner.

Aidan turned his chair so that he faced Gavin, and their knees almost touched as they watched each other. “Keep your eyes on me. Now think about something that makes you happy. Something peaceful, something you can focus on.”

“Like what?”

“That’s up to you.”

“What do you think about?”

Aidan paused. “I don’t. Mine is a natural shield that keeps everyone out. It’s an innate ability. I was born this way.”

“Figures.” Gavin sighed. “Okay. A happy thought?”

“Yeah.” Aidan stared into Gavin’s eyes and listened hard. He heard thoughts that transitioned into images and soon saw a woman’s smiling eyes that looked familiar. Gavin’s eyes. His mother. They walked into an old-fashioned ice-cream parlor and sat down. Moments later, two large sundaes covered in whipped cream and cherries appeared in front of them. Though he wasn’t empathic, Aidan clearly caught the sense of innocence and belonging.

He found himself wanting to know what that had been like, having a woman to call mother, someone to be loved by, someone to love. Maudlin shit he had no business thinking about with a mission about to go down.

With disgust for his ill discipline, he compartmentalized his past and studied Gavin once more. “Now hold that focus, but camouflage it. Brick up that feeling of happiness and make your wall strong. Surround yourself with it, so when I try to punch through, I rebound off it like a rock.”

Gavin frowned and closed his eyes.

“Keep your eyes open.”

“You’re distracting me.”

A drift of desire and unaccustomed need seeped through Gavin’s mind.

“Yeah, you want me. I get it. Now focus.”

“Dickhead.” Gavin flushed. His wall seemed firm, but anytime Aidan moved or made a noise, Gavin lost it.

“You had some solidity there a few times, but you can’t hold it.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.” Gavin opened his eyes. “This isn’t helping.”

“Not my fault. I’m trying to stay out of your mind.”

“Then quit touching me.”

To his surprise, Aidan looked down to see his hands on Gavin’s knees. He pulled back, annoyed he’d reached out, if even unconsciously to keep the connection. To cover his lapse, he said, “You’re going to be distracted. You have to learn to tune it out.”

“Telepathy and mental shielding aren’t natural to me.” Gavin shrugged. “My abilities manifest physically. All your mental mumbo jumbo gives me a headache.”

“Yeah? Is that the only thing aching?” Aidan smirked down at Gavin’s hard-on. “’Cause I’m thinking you’re not concentrating on your mom anymore.”

“Pervert.” Gavin stood quickly and put the island between them. “I’m not here to amuse you. I’m going to get that book back.”

“No, cupcake. We’re going to get the book back. It was my case to start with.”

“And Aidan ‘Never Fails’ Marshall can’t stand that I messed up his project.” Gavin sneered.

Aidan’s annoyance turned to downright rage, which shocked him. He didn’t do intense feeling. Living without a sea of murky sentiment helped control his mind and tunneled his focus into a success rate envied by others. They might not like him, but they couldn’t deny he was good at his job.

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. The idea that had been building since Gavin arrived blossomed into purpose. “Time to work out the kinks, then.” Aidan stood and rounded the island. He yanked Gavin toward him and stripped off Gavin’s sweatshirt before he could blink. Aidan tossed the garment aside, pleased to see Gavin’s wide blue eyes and lips parted on a gasp.

“Wh-what are you doing?”

“You don’t want to train your shields, so we’ll shift to discipline, something you sorely lack.” Aidan shook his head and crossed his arms over his chest. “You were forty-five minutes late this morning. I told you to be here at nine. I told you not to bring anything. You brought a bag.”

“But I—”

“And you don’t listen when you’re told what to do. That won’t work. Sure, I can pass you off as my new trainee, but I have standards. You’re cute enough, but you need work. I won’t have any credibility as a Dom if my sub questions my every word.”

Gavin’s flush at cute told Aidan a good bit about his partner. His boy needed praise as much as he needed a good fucking. Gavin’s erection made his mouth water. Their attraction would serve its purpose. Aidan should have been satisfied with that. But the truth was, he liked knowing Gavin wanted him. It made his desire for the male easier to swallow.

And on that note… “Come closer, boy.”

“I’m already on top of you,” Gavin muttered.

Aidan sighed. “You weren’t told to speak. You remain quiet unless given permission to talk. You call me Sir or Master—I’m not picky about which. And you do what you’re told, when you’re told. Understand?”

Gavin’s swallow sounded loud in the otherwise silent room. “I, ah, yes.” He stared into Aidan’s face and quickly glanced away. “Sir.”

“Good.” Aidan walked around him, glad Gavin remained in place. “Maybe the key to this relationship will be contact. We’ll work through the physical to the mental.” And what fun that would be. Aidan didn’t think he’d ever anticipated training for a mission so much. “Take off the rest of your clothes.”

Gavin started but obeyed. He worked his sneakers free, then his socks and jeans. He paused at his boxers but quickly stepped out of them after a hard look from Aidan.

“Better.” Aidan stopped again behind him, loving the lines of his new playmate. Gavin reached Aidan’s nose, putting him at a solid six feet. He had a toned body, not overlarge with muscle, but lean and strong. That ass begged to be filled, bitten, licked. So tight.

Aidan ran his hands over Gavin’s shoulders and back and lingered on his ass. He stroked, feeling the fine tremor of nerves beneath his palm. “Shh, it’s all right. I’m not going to hurt you. Not yet.”

A burst of images shot through Gavin and switched Aidan from aroused to desperate to fuck. The things Gavin wanted shocked him, because he’d never suspected Gavin to be into rough play. Normally quiet and agreeable, Gavin seemed friendly with everyone. A help and an asset to the team with his business sense and his ability to maintain PowerUp!’s secrecy. His experience with the PWP gave him common ground with them all, but other than that, he seemed to blend in with the woodwork.

The things his sub wanted to do… Spankings, hard fucking, clamps, hot wax—it made Aidan burn to induct him into the exquisite release bondage and dominance could bring. Except beyond all the kink, Gavin yearned to give over his trust and heart to someone stronger.

The heart part scared the shit out of Aidan, because he had the ridiculous urge to give his new boy what he wanted. With other subs who’d only needed the physical ease, Aidan had easily gratified them. In dominating them, he’d gotten what he needed as well. Trust Gavin to make things difficult by being emotional about the exchange.

In a gruff voice, Aidan ordered, “Move to the table and brace your hands on the edge. Lean forward and spread your legs. Thrust that ass out.”

Gavin obeyed with a hesitancy Aidan would need to break. But slowly. He understood that their time crunch wouldn’t allow for an easy melding of trust, but Gavin and he weren’t total strangers. That would help.

“What are you going to do?”

The timid voice should have angered him. He’d just told Gavin not to talk without permission. Yet the thread of fear he heard didn’t sit well. He didn’t want anything but Gavin’s hoarse shouts and groans as he came.

“I told you not to talk without permission, didn’t I?”

When Gavin wisely remained quiet, Aidan nodded. “Good boy. Now answer me.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“But you spoke. What should I do with you? Tell me.”

“Punish me?” came out as a whisper, but the hint of excitement in his voice spurred Aidan to action.

“That’s right, boy. You need to be punished.” Aidan stepped closer and rolled up his sleeves. He couldn’t wait to test Gavin’s boundaries. “I’m going to be with you, in your mind. I can’t chance hurting you, and I need to know how far I can push you.”

“I-I know, Aidan. I trust you.”

No, he didn’t. “That’s ‘I trust you, Sir.’” Aidan spanked his ass hard, leaving a red mark on Gavin’s cheek.

Gavin cried out but didn’t move. His knuckles turned white, and his entire body tensed.

“Relax, or it will hurt more.” Aidan waited until Gavin eased his muscles, then spanked him again, putting a matching handprint on Gavin’s left cheek. “Nice.” He reached around, not surprised to feel his partner hard and wet. He rubbed his fingers over Gavin’s slit, more than aroused when Gavin groaned. Mentally, Gavin didn’t know how to feel, and Aidan wanted to overwhelm him, not give him time to think.

“You need to respond to my command, to obey without question when we’re in front of others.” He stroked Gavin up and down, feeling that thick cock and listening to the heavy pants of hunger. After releasing Gavin, he knelt behind him and then pried his cheeks apart. “That’s one pretty little hole.”

Gavin’s entire body shook. Aidan caught no fear, just tendrils of excitement. He kissed Gavin’s ass and licked his hole. “You taste good, boy. All nice and clean, just for me, hmm?” The faint scent of soap pleased him, because Aidan understood his boy had wanted to be nice for him. Aidan licked again, then feasted on Gavin’s tight, firm flesh. He worked his saliva around his boy’s sensitive rim while he ran his hands along Gavin’s inner thighs. Aidan would near Gavin’s sac and then drop down his legs again, teasing without touching.

Gavin quivered and shook, moaning with breathy cries that turned Aidan’s erection painful.

“Keep still,” he barked and returned to licking Gavin’s anus. When he’d gotten it as wet as he wanted, he pulled back and shoved his finger deep. He didn’t hesitate, even when Gavin squirmed. Instead he pushed all the way inside that tight, fuckable hole. “You’re small here. Not too many partners. Last one was over a year ago?” Aidan liked what he saw in Gavin’s mind. “You needed more than what he could give you. Much, much more.”

Chapter Four

Gavin couldn’t help his loud moans and quivering body. God, Aidan’s mouth wouldn’t quit. And when the bastard did finally ease that incredible tongue from his ass, he’d replaced it with a finger as thick as a cock. Gavin couldn’t help rocking into it, even when Aidan ordered him not to. Damn, he wanted to please, and that inborn need scared him. Because he didn’t just want to please anyone, he wanted to please Aidan.

The blond giant remained behind him, one hand on Gavin’s ass while he kept that thick finger inside him, the other hand creeping up Gavin’s thigh. He skated past Gavin’s balls and gripped Gavin’s cock. Hard.

The pain wouldn’t have been so bad, but then Aidan squeezed, and Gavin feared he’d come.

“Not yet. Not until I tell you to.” Aidan’s quiet authority alerted every nerve in Gavin’s body to pay attention. “Now let’s see how you handle more.”

More?

“Yes, baby. More.”

Baby. Fuck. Gavin couldn’t help squeezing around Aidan’s finger. Aidan had shoved inside him dry, with only Aidan’s saliva to lube him. It had burned, more so because Gavin hadn’t played with anyone or anything in his ass for way too long.

“I’m going to fix that real soon.”

Aidan continued to read his mind, and the invasion added another penetration, arousing Gavin unbearably. He didn’t like anyone in his private thoughts, but Aidan owned him. Body and mind. And soul? He’d known about Aidan while in the PWP, but as no more than an annoying peer, one far above Gavin due to Aidan’s ability to work missions. Aidan Marshall—a legend in the field and a rumored beast in the sack. And right now, Gavin was learning firsthand how Aidan had gotten his reputation.

“I earned it, boy. Hard work and a lot of hard fucking.” Aidan removed his finger and stood.

Gavin wanted desperately to know what he was doing, but he hadn’t been told he could ask or turn around. He thought the question with focus and jumped when Aidan smacked his ass again. The pain stung, and the resulting throb in his cock and heaviness in his balls didn’t help. He wanted to come right now.

“You’re asking. Voiceless or not, you weren’t given permission to talk.”

“Oh, come on. Sir.”

Aidan smacked him several more times, and Gavin’s grunts turned into pleas for harder discipline.

“You little slut.” Aidan chuckled. “Who knew you had it in you? I like it, boy. I like it a lot.”

Aidan knelt behind him again, and Gavin held on to the table for dear life. After some rustling and a few moments of silence, a cold, slick finger eased into him. And then another joined the first.

“Wider. Can you take more, I wonder…?” Aidan let his fingers rest inside Gavin, allowing Gavin to adjust to the stretch in his rectum.

Fuck, it hurt. But Aidan wasn’t content to idly sit still. He prodded and reached, and he hit that spot inside Gavin that turned Gavin’s whole world white.

“There it is.” Aidan finger fucked him a few times, and just as Gavin readied to come, permission or not, the bastard stopped.

Damn it.

“Bad boy. You need to be punished again.” Aidan sighed.

Gavin heard a zipper and tensed, praying it meant what he thought it did. After a moment, Aidan positioned himself behind Gavin. The big blond didn’t speak, letting his actions tell their own story.

The broad head of his cock penetrated and continued to push, thicker than those fingers had been. Thank God he’d lubed himself, though, or Gavin feared he’d have done real damage.

“I told you not to come without permission, and you were intending to release no matter what. If you’d waited, I’d have made this better for you. But you need to learn.” Aidan suddenly shoved the whole of himself deep and nearly took Gavin off his feet.

“Shit.”

“Oh fuck. You feel good.” He shoved a hand between Gavin’s shoulder blades to keep him down and gripped his waist at the same time. “I’m going to come inside you.”

Gavin didn’t know how he felt about that. On the one hand, he didn’t worry about safety. Aidan wouldn’t compromise himself or Gavin. He might be an asshole, but on this point, Gavin trusted him.

“We have to start with trust somewhere,” Aidan said on a grunt and fucked him harder. The rough friction hurt. Especially since Gavin was aching with the need to climax.

“Oh yeah, there it is.” Aidan groaned, pumping into Gavin as he continued to release. “That felt good. I needed that.”

I need it too, Gavin wanted to shout, twitchy and stuffed full. Unsatisfied yet strangely content, he didn’t understand what the hell he could feel good about.

“You like that I came. You liked making your Master happy. And that’s good, because you’ve been pretty bad today.”

“Wh—”

Aidan remained inside him and leaned over his back to murmur in his ear, “You aren’t allowed to speak. You still consider me a bastard and an asshole. Tsk-tsk.” He rotated his pelvis and jostled that spot inside Gavin that made it hard to think about anything but coming. “And you don’t obey. You still want things your way. You can come, but it won’t be the joy you think it will.”

Aidan reached around and jerked him off in three strokes.

Gavin cried out and shot hard, gripping the thick rod still buried in his ass. When he could catch his breath again, he didn’t understand how Aidan could be right. The orgasm relieved him, but it hadn’t been as good as it had yesterday.

“Think about it. Go clean up; then get your ass back in here. Let’s see if your genius-level IQ is good for more than numbers.” Aidan withdrew and stood back, waiting.

Gavin didn’t censor his annoyance as he stumbled out of the kitchen. He walked down a hallway lined with prints of the mountains and natural wildflowers, poetic pieces he wouldn’t have thought Aidan would appreciate, and found the bathroom. A guest bath done in blues and browns, it had a masculine feel while being clean and polished enough to belong in a designer magazine. Yet another side of Aidan he’d never imagined.

After cleaning himself thoroughly using the shampoo and soap in the shower, and taking care to pay attention to the sorer parts of his body—namely, his ass—he dried off. Aidan hadn’t said he could wear the towel out. He’d insisted Gavin bring nothing with him for their training, and Gavin knew that meant he’d spend the better part of their time together naked.

With a glance at his body in the mirror, he saw what Aidan would see. A flushed, naive-looking young man whose eyes shone with sexual satisfaction, confusion, and worry. Holy shit. Just thinking that he’d had sex with hunky Aidan Marshall turned him inside out. Not that he didn’t consider himself okay in the looks department—Aidan had called him cute after all. But Aidan was the type of master that Gavin had been dreaming about for years. Strong, gruff, but not abusive. He meted out punishment and didn’t take any shit.

To Gavin’s horror, he started to grow hard again. His orgasm had been much needed, but not as good as yesterday’s, when he’d come all over Aidan’s belly. That sense of connection had been missing. But why? Hell, he’d had Aidan buried inside him. How much tighter could they get?

Aidan had given him permission to come. Yet Gavin hadn’t pleased his master. Not the way he should have. He realized his mistake and flushed with shame. And just as quickly, the notion infuriated him. He stormed out of the bathroom, heedless of his nudity, and confronted Aidan.

“You told me I could come.”

“Yet the first time, you almost came without permission, didn’t you? It was all about Gavin and Gavin’s feelings. You didn’t want to obey anyone but your cock.”

Gavin opened his mouth to retort but didn’t. He thought about it. “You got me really hard. That’s good.”

“Yes. And you showed absolutely no sense of understanding.” Aidan shook his head. His gaze remained on Gavin’s face, and the lack of desire Gavin sensed left him feeling embarrassed. He was fine to be naked when Aidan wanted him, but now he felt vulnerable and way underdressed.

“Exactly.” Aidan sat down behind the table. “You are vulnerable. The whole point about domination and submission is an exchange of power.”

“Where you hold all of it,” Gavin grumbled.

The disappointment on Aidan’s face dismayed him. God, why did he suddenly feel like crying? Frustration—that had to be it. That was all Aidan would need to think of him as a total lost cause.

“Gavin. Look at me.” Aidan’s soft voice shook him out of his thoughts. “It’s my job to see to your needs, not yours. It’s my job to make sure you’re warm, that you’re secure, that you’re coming when you need to. Not yours. The ultimate power is pleasure. Your pleasure. But the control is mine.”

Gavin needed a moment.

“No. Come here.”

Shit. He hated having nothing private.

“Now.”

He trudged to stand next to Aidan and let out a surprised curse when Aidan yanked him down onto his lap.

“You’re cold. And your ass is sore.”

Aidan pulled him into a hug that warmed him within. He didn’t protest when his head was shoved against Aidan’s broad chest, and the sound of his partner’s—Master’s—heartbeat racing under his ear brought him a sense of peace he’d been needing for a very long time.

“That’s it. Let it all go, Gavin. It’s my job to take care of you. And I always do my job.”

Gavin buried deep his secret wish that this could be more than a job. Because this feeling of closeness struck him right where it would hurt the most. His heart.

AIDAN LET GAVIN rest in his arms for a good while, until the slighter man fell into a light doze. Nothing sounded but the slow, steady breath of his boy against his chest. God, he didn’t understand this. Aidan didn’t want their embrace to end. He’d given comfort to any number of subs over the years. After a hard whipping or a rough beating, he’d soothe with creams and hugs, some gentle cuddling to ease the sub out of his zone. But he’d never felt such tenderness for a partner before.

Not sure why the hell this had to happen now and with Gavin, of all people. He slowly stood with Gavin in his arms. His boy snuggled closer and sighed, and Aidan tightened his hold. A funny ache in his chest told him he needed distance, so he carried Gavin into his bedroom and put him in bed. Gavin looked so small and innocent in the middle of the spacious room. After covering him with a thick, warm blanket, he closed the door behind him and went to the phone.

The second he heard Kitty answer, he asked, “Anything yet?”

“And hello to you too, Aidan.” She sounded irritated. “Hold on.”

Ian joined him. “Yo, Viking. What hails from the cold north?”

“Idiot. I’m three miles west of the gym.”

“With that cutie Gavin, I hear. Yum, yum.” Ian snickered.

“Shut it. So what’s the deal? You have my invite yet?”

“Almost. Gimme another day. I’m e-mailing you your cover, though. Big tough Dom and your boy toy. You’ll be a small arms dealer with connections in Canada. We’ll work the northerly bad-boy angle. What do you think?”

“Whatever. Just give me what I need, and I’ll take care of this.”

“Of course you will.”

Ian’s platitude annoyed him. “Anything else I should be aware of while I’m there?”

“Well, this didn’t come from Jack, but…”

“Ian.”

“That book is important to you-know-who. Problem is, even without the book, rumor has it Carl is gunning for our client. If it were me, I’d grab the book and take care of trouble, if you know what I mean.” Kill Carl Kerr went without saying. “Because as you know, you-know-who is a big player and one of the main reasons those jackasses stay off our tails.”

Aidan grunted. They had a pair of government watchdogs on them at all times who didn’t bother hiding anymore, and Aidan had no idea what Jack intended to do about them. But at least they left them well enough alone. The government hadn’t protested much when Jack and the rest of them left DC behind. But apparently Uncle Sam wasn’t stupid enough to let amped-up psychics run amok in the country. Even as far away as Oregon.

He frowned. “So you think Stallbridge—”

“Ahem.”

He rolled his eyes. “You-know-who is keeping them at bay?” Why they had to continue with Stallbridge’s secrecy, he had no idea. The team swept for devices on a daily basis.

“That’s my guess. I mean, we haven’t done anything to warrant the government taking us in. No weird abuses of psychic power anywhere. And then there are the Cannons.” The other resident psychics in Bend. A powerful family he’d been fortunate to avoid thus far during his time in Oregon. “They have a lot of pull in high places. They’re psychic, and no one bothers them.”

Aidan snorted. “Yeah, and they weren’t enhanced in government labs and trained to kill with a thought either.”

“That we know of.”

Good point. “So you’re telling me it would be a wise thing, in our best defense, to take care of the client in any way we see fit?”

“I can only speculate, Aidan. I’m just a peon, like you.” At Aidan’s growl, he amended, “Okay, not like you. I’m much better looking, for one,” he muttered and in a louder voice said, “You’re superior in size and brain power. Happy now?”

“Ian, get to the point.” No wonder Jack had a bottle of aspirin at his desk. Ian would drive a saint to drink. And Jack was no saint.

“Yeah, yeah. All I know is, if it were me, I’d eliminate any threat to my paycheck. Jack leaves a lot to your discretion, and you don’t abuse your authority, so he wouldn’t blink twice if Kerr just happened to suffer from an aneurysm. All I’m saying.”

Aidan stilled. “Wish I could help with that, but—”

“Right. You just read minds. You don’t influence or pulverize with your mental superpowers. Sure thing. Of course. What was I thinking?” In a peppier voice, he added, “Well, I’ve gotta go. Working the day shift is no fun without Chloe and the guys to annoy, but hey, Kitty’s into some flare-up with a hot-looking hunk, so I need to go and rescue her. Or him. I’m not sure yet.”

He hung up before Aidan could correct him. Hell. Did Ian know what Aidan could really do? Jack didn’t. How could a forger know what Aidan had kept buried more than half his life?

“Hey.”

He turned to see Gavin standing just inside the living room, a blanket wrapped around his waist and a frown on his face. “What?”

“You put me to bed?” The cute flush on his cheeks warmed Aidan in places he hadn’t realized were cold.

“You looked worn-out.”

“I was late this morning because I overslept. I’m just not used to all this…ah…sex.”

Aidan laughed. “Yeah? I figured. Your ass is like a glove. All nice and hot. We’re going to have a lot of fun this week.” Gavin’s embarrassment amused him. “Man, we just fucked. I emptied into that sweet ass. Hell, I rimmed and ate you up. What the hell are you embarrassed about?”

“So I can talk to you normally now?”

“My fault.” Aidan stood and crossed to Gavin. He pulled the blanket up over his shoulders and figured he might as well start a fire, since he planned to keep Gavin naked for the next three days they spent getting ready to tackle Kerr. “When we’re in scene, you’ll address me as Sir or Master. I’ll call you boy.” Or baby, which he hadn’t meant to let slip. It felt too personal, and he liked it too much. “But when we’re done, it’s just you and me.”

“Where I call you an asshole.” Gavin grinned.

That smile punched another hole through the barrier protecting Aidan’s heart. He had to clear his throat before warning, “Don’t push your luck.”

“So I can put my clothes back on?”

“No. Drop the blanket.”

Gavin sighed but did as told without question. Progress.

“I want you to be comfortable being naked around me. And I want access to that cock. Full-time.”

Gavin blew out a breath. “I have a feeling you say this stuff so I’ll turn red.”

“I do like that color on you. Turn around. Let me see that ass.”

Gavin turned, and Aidan saw the beginning of a bruise on his left buttock. “Pretty. You bruise easy.”

“Easy?” Gavin asked as he turned around. “Your hands are like bricks. No wonder they call you Viking.”

“I thought that was on account of my berserker of a cock.” Aidan winked.

Gavin laughed, and the smoky chuckle had Aidan joining in.

“Yeah, okay. You’re so big and studly. Oh, Aidan, you’re my hero.”

“Smart-ass.”

“So who were you on the phone with?”

The sense of camaraderie surprised him. Gavin was thinking that they’d put their issues behind them, and he saw Aidan as a real partner. The clear acceptance on Gavin’s part had the effect of brightening Aidan’s normally dour mood.

“I was talking to Ian—not by choice. We should have our info later today. I’m a small arms dealer with connections, and you’re my love slave.”

Gavin groaned. “Not slave.”

“The thought has appeal.”

“I’m sure.” Gavin shivered.

“You have thin blood.” He shrugged out of his own shirt, more than aware of the bag of clothes Gavin had brought with him, and put it over Gavin’s shoulders. The shirt hung on a frame meant to hold a shirt two sizes smaller, but Aidan liked seeing it there, just as much as he liked Gavin’s attention. “I know. I’m a lot to handle.”

“You have no problem with self-confidence.”

“Nope.” Not when it came to his body. The rest of him… He didn’t like to think about.

“So what now?”

“Now we get to know each other better. Then we see if you’ve learned anything from this morning.”

Gavin nodded, which surprised him. He hadn’t thought Gavin would be agreeable to another D/s scene so soon after being angry earlier. They might actually have a shot at pulling this off come Saturday.

With that in mind, Aidan built a fire. He squatted by the fireplace and arranged kindling. Then he watched as flames took life. He turned his head and noted Gavin’s gaze on his jean-clad ass.

“Like what you see?” he teased.

“Yeah. Just wondering if anyone’s ever fucked you.”

Aidan stood and faced his partner. God, he really thought of Gavin as his partner. The team fuckup had managed to sneak under Aidan’s shields in more ways than one. With that in mind, Aidan resolved to harden his livened emotions.

“That’s quite a question.” He crossed his arms over his chest, wanting to give the impression of strength when everything inside him shied away from bad memories. Had he ever been fucked? Yeah, and beaten and nearly strangled to death. Never again.

Gavin sighed. “And not an answer. But that’s okay. I’m good at solving puzzles.” Gavin walked up to him and placed his hands on Aidan’s biceps.

The contact sizzled. Everything faded but Gavin’s touch.

He wasn’t the only one affected. Gavin’s erection grew as he watched.

“I want to show you something. Can I kiss you…Master?”

* * *

Carl Kerr stared into the fireplace, hoping for answers. He’d spent the better part of last month’s earnings on Polski’s resourcefulness. Now he had the answer to his biggest problem. Except the fucking book meant nothing to him. He’d had it authenticated out the ass. Yes, it was several hundred years old. Yes, it belonged to the Stallbridge family, who had carved a nice little niche in the world of finances. And yes, Owen Stallbridge wanted it back.

But why?

Ignoring the muffled groans from the corner, he looked from the fire to the book and frowned. The cover was unremarkable. Tattered leather, some faded gold-embossed letters. Inside was much the same. An unremarkable story about love lost and found lined the antique pages. Some sexual drawings, a hierarchy of Stallbridges and the families they’d married into. A weird little book that wanted to be the Kama Sutra but came across as a bad edition of perversions and nonsense about men and women with weird brain types. More than half the material meant little to him. But Stallbridge wanted it, according to the price tag he’d attached to Chronicles. Kerr frowned. What could Stallbridge want with such an unremarkable book?

A careful inspection of the binding and cover showed no tampering. Nothing had been stuffed inside. No codes or coordinates. No hidden secrets that Carl could tell. The suspense was killing him. No way in hell Stallbridge wanted the book because it held sentimental value. And showing it off to the world couldn’t embarrass him. Who would give a shit about an old book written about the Stallbridges that had sexual connotations? Considering Stallbridge had never made any bones about caring what anyone thought of him, Carl couldn’t see him fearing the family exposed as perverts.

A shriek and sudden grunt took his attention. From his position on the couch, he had a front-row seat to all the entertainment in the room. The overlarge, cozy fireplace, the custom fifty-inch LED television, and the stainless-steel table on which a bloodied sex slave lay strapped and helpless while two hulking monsters abused him. Carl turned his attention from the book to the sexual tableau before him and eased his legs apart. He motioned for the newest slave kneeling by his side to suck him off. What this one lacked in expertise, he made up for in enthusiasm and youth. Though Carl had never liked little boys, he did like his partners on the young side. This one was twenty or twenty-two. He didn’t remember his name, but the dimples and freckles across the man’s nose gave him a hint of cute with a dose of naughty as his full lips closed around Carl’s cock.

“Good.” Carl stroked his hair before gagging the man on his dick. While his new slave struggled to breathe, Carl watched Samson shove his fully greased fist up the ass of the slight male chained to the table. “Samson, shift a bit. I can’t see fully.”

Samson moved. The giant Swede had been quite a find. Carl had lamented the loss of Joshua, his last security guard. They’d had a good bit of fun before the bruiser had protested what he called rape. Carl had thought of his last conquest as a bit of harmless fun. He particularly liked darker men. The contrast of his lighter skin color against a darker brown was beautiful. He constantly found himself vacillating between racial types. As he watched Samson violate the pitiable slave on the table, he shoved harder into the hot mouth surrounding him. “Suck me down your throat, you little shit.” He groaned as the man on the table moaned and jerked while Samson pushed deeper. “All the way, Samson. That’s pretty. Look at his balls. They’re tight. I think he’s going to come.” Not quite what Carl wanted. He liked pain, but he liked it better when the recipient didn’t.

Samson nodded at Tyler, Carl’s other personal protector. Tyler held a small whip and brought it down over the scars left from the last time they’d explored this type of entertainment.

“That has to be doing some damage.” The painful pleasure will be exquisite. “Make him come, Tyler.” It wouldn’t take long. This slave liked the lash too much. His draw to pain had made him instantly attractive, but now Carl was bored with him.

Tyler nodded. Samson withdrew his arm covered in a mess. The fluids just made it more real, more exciting. Then the whip descended. Screams, blood, and semen enhanced Carl’s enjoyment, surpassed only when Samson flashed a knife and the screams ended in a gurgle.

Humping his slave’s face as the violence escalated, Carl could no longer hold back. He jerked and jetted down his new boy’s throat.

He continued pumping between those pouty lips until he had nothing left. Then he pushed the young man off him. Not surprised to see tears in his slave’s eyes, he waved him away in disgust. “Samson?”

The larger man stood at a small sink washing himself clean. “Yes, sir?”

Carl liked that. Sir. Though not large, Carl had a commanding presence. He was like Samson, only smaller. They even looked alike. Blond hair, blue eyes. And that strength so apparent in Samson was reflected in Carl’s quick mind. Sharp, controlled. Powerful.

With a smile, he nodded to himself. “Zip me up, would you?”

Samson dried himself off, rolled down his shirt, and buttoned his sleeve. “Of course, sir.” After crossing to Carl, he knelt and reached between Carl’s legs.

Carl’s cock stirred.

Just as Samson pulled the zipper all the way up, Carl covered his hand.

“Sir?”

“Do you like working for me?”

Samson smiled, his avarice and cruelty readily apparent. “I do.”

“Good, good.” He let Samson go.

“What about Gary, sir?”

“Gary?”

Samson nodded to the dead man currently slumped over Tyler’s shoulder. Blood covered Tyler’s previously pristine white shirt. Between Tyler and Samson, he didn’t fear bodily harm. He’d seen both men plow through his enemies and not bat an eye.

“Ah, Gary. Dispose of him discreetly. Excellent performance, you two.”

Samson grinned, and Tyler nodded.

“Samson, the next time you need someone to play with, feel free to use my new toy.” He glanced at the freckle-faced young man sobbing on the ground. “He’s not very good, but he has potential.”

Samson licked his lips. “With pleasure.”

His slave whimpered.

The big man liked a challenge. Carl had noticed Samson looking himself over a time or two and had considered allowing him some fun. His guard was smart enough to know not to damage the boss, not if he wanted to live. But Carl didn’t like giving up control, and Samson was the type who wanted to fight for it.

Perhaps hurting his new slave would sate Samson’s hunger for pain. Then again, keeping his guard on the edge only made him that much more feral when it came to dealing with Carl’s adversaries.

“Oh, but Samson?” he called when Samson turned away. “Don’t play with him unless I’m there to watch. I want this one to last a little longer than Gary. He’s still so innocent.”

“Sure thing, boss. And Stallbridge. What do you want me to do about him?”

Kill him, came the immediate answer. “Let’s sit and wait. I’m sure he’ll start poking around soon enough, maybe even this weekend at the party. That’s what I’d do. I need to know who’s working for him. I have an idea, but I’m not one hundred percent sure my source was right.” Real psychics? Ex-government agents? None of it made a lick of sense, but he’d wait and see. “I can’t wait until this weekend, can you?”

“No, sir,” Samson and Tyler answered as one.

Carl tittered. Saturday couldn’t come soon enough.

Chapter Five

Gavin waited for Aidan’s permission before he pulled Aidan’s head down for a kiss.

The press of lips, the heat, the overpowering strength all around him, fueled his power that needed an outlet. He’d often envied Keegan and James their abilities. Moving something or setting fire with one’s mind—those powers could be contained, hidden. But making his whole body float wasn’t something Gavin could conceal. Needing an external channel to release his power sucked. Or it had, until now.

As he kissed Aidan, energy flared between them. Gavin groaned into the kiss, exploring Aidan’s mouth with soft strokes. He licked and teased until Aidan opened and allowed his penetration. That the larger man welcomed his touch gave their merging added meaning. Gavin couldn’t help it. He wasn’t a one-night-stand kind of guy. He’d never been one to hit the glory hole in the north campus bathroom or suck a guy off in the back hallway of a gay bar. He needed trust and emotion, a deeper connection with a sexual partner than the physical.

So it had surprised him as much as it probably had surprised Aidan how much he desired the bigger man. Yet the hunger had turned from physical to something else, because his power cradled them both as he let it wash over him.

Aidan tensed when their feet left the ground. And then he hugged Gavin tighter and took control of the kiss. He stroked Gavin’s tongue and thrust against it with his own, nipping and sucking until Gavin thought he’d burst.

Need you so much came loud and clear into his mind, and he blinked his eyes open to see Aidan’s closed. As soon as the thought had been shared, Aidan closed off with an almost audible snap. Gavin’s sense of togetherness hadn’t faded, though, and he continued to hold them off the ground while he kissed and touched every part of Aidan’s body he could reach, well aware his bare cock met the solid wall of Aidan’s belly.

Aidan broke the kiss and looked down at him with hunger. Then he shifted his stare to the floor, a few feet beneath them. Unlike Gavin’s vaulted ceiling, Aidan’s was only ten feet tall, and soon he bumped his head. “Shit. That’s amazing.”

Gavin let them slowly drop until they hit the floor. But Aidan didn’t let him stop.

“No. Keep going. To your knees.”

Gavin knelt. Supplicant, wanting. God, he needed to suck Aidan off, to feel his Master come and taste his seed.

“Good boy. We’re back in the scene now. And you’re thinking the right way, finally.” Aidan slowly unzipped his pants and took himself out. “Just lick it. Learn my shape.” He kept his hand on Gavin’s head while Gavin used his tongue all over Aidan’s shaft. Aidan moaned, and the sweet sound eased an answering one out of Gavin.

“That’s good. Yes. Now suck it. And suck my balls too. Lightly, until I tell you to go harder.”

Gavin reached between Aidan’s legs and cupped his sac. Then he kissed and licked the skin before sucking one testicle into his mouth. He stroked Aidan as he worked him, not needing instruction when the man’s hand at the back of his head expressed his pleasure. Aidan pumped his hips in time with Gavin’s deep draws.

He stopped Gavin by gripping his hair and yanking him away.

The pain was unexpected…and arousing as hell.

“On your hands and knees, boy. I want to see that pretty red ass again.” Aidan backed up, making no effort to hide his fierce erection.

Gavin moved to his hands and knees and turned around to show Aidan his ass.

“Spread your cheeks.”

He leaned on one hand while he pulled his left cheek away.

“So pretty, that hole. Now I want you to answer me when I talk to you. And keep yourself open.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“How do you feel now?”

“Fucking hard, Sir.”

Aidan laughed. “You’re an outstanding cocksucker. You about teased the cum right out of me.” Aidan knelt behind him and shoved his hand away. “Ever been fucked dry? It hurts.”

Gavin shivered. “N-no, Sir.”

“Want it?”

“No, Sir.” Not something he had to think about. Aidan would split him in half.

“How about I just rest inside you, then? I’m pretty slick.” Aidan pushed his cockhead into Gavin’s ass and rested there.

The intrusion couldn’t be ignored. “Sir?”

“Now fuck my tip. Just little pushes. Rock over me.”

Gavin pushed back until the pain grew too much, then moved forward to relieve it. He continued to ride Aidan’s cockhead, growing more and more aroused as Aidan’s breathing grew erratic and his moans came faster. Odd how Gavin wanted to get the man off before he came himself. He’d always been into receiving pleasure. Yet his thoughts now focused on Aidan.

“You’re killing my discipline.” Aidan groaned and pulled back. “Stay right there.” He cursed and moaned, and then something hot and wet hit Gavin’s ass.

“That feels good, Sir.”

Aidan rasped, “What do you want, boy?”

“I want you inside me.”

Aidan left and returned a moment later with a tube of lube in his hand. After a moment, he pushed through his seed and entered Gavin in one slick, smooth thrust, his cock still stiff but not as hard as it had been before. Knowing he’d brought Aidan to pleasure made all the difference.

“Now what? You obeyed, so you get rewarded.” Aidan continued to move, hard and thick.

“I want you to stay inside me until you can’t anymore.” Aidan’s erection would have to flag after coming so hard. “And then I want…” He didn’t know if he could ask. Blowing Gavin would probably be too submissive for a man like Aidan. Down on his knees, his ass in the air… Gavin wanted badly to see it, so he’d have that memory later on when he needed something hot to jack off to.

“Say it,” Aidan growled and shoved deeper inside him, mashing his balls against Gavin’s ass.

“I-I want you to suck me off, down on your hands and knees, Sir.”

“And?”

“And I want to see your ass in the air while you do it. I want you bobbing over me.” That would be so fucking good.

Aidan grunted. Instead of getting smaller, however, he felt firmer as he fucked Gavin. “One more time for my boy. You want my cum, you’ll have it. Know how hot you make me. How you make me lose control. You like that, don’t you?” Aidan rasped as he rammed deep, in and out.

The roughness, that aspect of not having the power to withstand Gavin’s allure, gave Gavin a high he couldn’t hide, and his cock thickened. God, he wanted so badly to be the center of someone’s world. To have Aidan, a man prized for his discipline and gruffness, admit to needing Gavin nearly sent Gavin over the edge.

“No, hold it for me. You want to come down my throat, remember?” Aidan reminded on a groan as he shuddered and came.

He withdrew much more slowly this time, no doubt oversensitive.

Then he turned Gavin’s head and kissed him with a thoroughness that took Gavin’s breath away. Gavin’s arousal had yet to abate, and the pain of his need actually hurt.

“Take it, baby. Take the pain. You need it,” Aidan murmured as he lifted Gavin to his feet and drew him toward the fireplace. “Don’t move.” He grabbed the blanket and threw it on the floor before the fire. Then he gently drew Gavin to his knees. “Watch my mouth. I’m going to swallow you up. All down my throat.”

Still buzzing from his psychic high, sexual arousal, and the taste of Aidan on his lips, Gavin watched Aidan nuzzle his shaft. Big, muscular, tough Aidan on his hands and knees in front of Gavin.

His blond hair slid over Gavin’s thigh, and Gavin couldn’t help himself. He had to touch that hair, to feel that silk over his fingers.

“Do it. Touch me. Hold me tight while you fuck me.”

Gavin hissed and jerked as Aidan’s hot mouth enveloped him. “God. Yes, yes. More. Take me, oh fuck.”

Aidan sucked cock better than anyone Gavin had ever been with. He couldn’t think as that masterful tongue swirled and teased his cockhead, his slit, his shaft. Aidan cupped his balls and shoved a finger inside, through his own cum.

“Shit, Sir. I’m going to come. So hard. Gotta come.”

Aidan sucked harder and pressed that hot spot inside Gavin that refused to let him hold back any longer.

Gavin cried out as he released, literally seeing stars when he closed his eyes and gave everything into Aidan’s keeping. A swell of power locked them together while he spent, and when Aidan removed his hands and mouth, Gavin swayed from the aftershocks and crumpled.

“Easy, boy, I’ve got you.” Aidan hugged him tight.

Gavin couldn’t see straight. Holy shit, but he didn’t think he’d ever see straight again. Not unless he was looking at Aidan.

AIDAN DIDN’T KNOW what the hell had just happened, but he’d experienced something monumental. Not just two orgasms on top of each other, which he’d done before with a guy who really flipped his switch, but that exchange of energy and emotion when Gavin had come down his throat. What the fuck was that?

He held a shaking Gavin, aware his partner—lover—hadn’t intentionally done anything but orgasm. But their tie felt so much deeper now. Emotions confused the mix, and Aidan had a bad feeling this operation wouldn’t end when they returned. If they returned.

Thinking with his dick instead of his brain would lead to heartache at best, death at worst. A smarter man would have contacted Jack and cried off the op with Gavin. He could try Ian, hell, maybe one of those dangerous Cannons he kept hearing so much about, if any of them were even gay.

He glanced down into Gavin’s face and saw the dreamy smile there. Felt the trust and the nonsense of connection and meeting hearts. Fuck if he hadn’t seen this coming, Gavin confusing lust with love.

A smarter man…

Fuck smart. Aidan would see this through with Gavin or no one else. Because he was now Gavin’s master, he told himself. Gavin needed to get back on the operational wagon and prove himself. Not because Aidan had started falling for the junior leaguer. And certainly not because Gavin looked so damn cute while he slept…or how well he fit in Aidan’s arms. Aidan couldn’t care less that Gavin had no fear of him, even now, knowing he could read his thoughts. That didn’t matter in the slightest.

He cleared his throat and slowly parted from his boy, putting some physical distance between them. Still doing the scene, asshole. Of course he thinks you’re the man for him. It’s part of the scene. Feeling like a complete idiot for losing himself, Aidan nodded. “Better now?”

Gavin grinned at him. “Read my mind.” At Aidan’s frown, he quickly added, “Sir.”

Aidan sighed. But when he tried to look into that genius brain, he came up blocked.

“Wait, please. Uh, Sir. Don’t touch me. Just try to read me.”

Aidan curled his treacherous hands, again not aware of reaching for Gavin after he himself had pulled back. To his astonishment, he couldn’t read Gavin’s mind. “Holy shit. That worked.”

Or had it? Had he somehow given Gavin a part of his power when he’d come? That energy burst hadn’t been a mere climax. He frowned.

“What’s wrong? I thought you’d be glad about this.”

“I am,” Aidan hastened to relieve him, then grew angry he should suddenly care about not hurting Gavin’s tender feelings. “Fuck.” He ran a hand through his hair—the same hair Gavin had recently caressed. Exposed and not liking it, Aidan quickly rose to his feet. Fuck if he didn’t like seeing Gavin on his knees in front of him a little too much. “We need to get cleaned up and dressed. Then we need to get a few folks to test a theory.”

After a moment, Gavin’s eyes widened. “You think you might have given me some of your mojo.”

“I think that’s a given.”

Gavin flushed and stared down at Aidan’s cock. “Well, not that mojo. Your telepathy.”

“Maybe.”

Gavin frowned in thought. “Interesting idea. Has this ever happened to you before? Sex and your psychic skills combining?”

“Never. I don’t make a habit of having sex with other psychics,” he growled, wishing he didn’t feel like he had to explain himself. The second-guessing crap made him nuts. Fuck, I am such a girl.

“You’ve never done anyone on the team?”

“No.” Aidan stood and tucked himself back into his pants. “I’m showering. I’ll be back in a few.”

He stalked away, but for the love of God, he couldn’t ignore the image of a smug smile in Gavin’s thoughts. He wished he wasn’t glad that he’d put it there, or that Gavin wanted him to see it.

* * *

Later that evening at a local bar, Gavin did his best to keep himself shielded from Aidan. Aidan, curiously enough, hadn’t tried to touch him since their explosive coming together several hours ago. It was as if the bigger man didn’t want to know what he thought.

Personally, Gavin liked and disliked the shield. While it gave him a sense of freedom, he found he didn’t like the barrier keeping him from his Master. His Master.

Just knowing he belonged to Aidan on any level gave him tingles.

Aidan met his gaze across the crowded table and frowned.

Gavin grinned, happy to see their relationship back on normal footing. Then again, did he and Aidan really have a relationship? They were coworkers and now partners for however long this mission lasted. A few more days, a weird sex party, and then hopefully they’d have the book and be done. So why couldn’t he stop envisioning his future right next to the big guy?

Ian, Keegan, James, and Kitty walked past several empty tables and sat with them.

“I sense worry.” Kitty zeroed in on Aidan. “What’s wrong?”

He didn’t answer her. “Gavin, anything?”

Gavin tried to focus—he did—but he couldn’t stop thinking about how amazing Aidan’s lips looked wrapped around his cock.

Aidan snapped, “Focus, cupcake. Well?”

“I hate when you call me that.” He couldn’t help blushing.

James and Keegan muffled grins but didn’t hide their laughter well behind fake coughs. Ian, of course, openly chuckled.

“Oh.” Kitty flushed a becoming pink and glanced from him to Aidan.

“Well?” Aidan repeated, looking furious.

Gavin concentrated but could read nothing from any of them. “Nope. Nothing.”

Aidan’s glare faded. “Not a thing, huh?” He turned to Ian and said, “Block me. I’m going to try to read you.”

Ian opened his mouth, but just as he refused, Aidan shook his head. “That painting needs work. No way anyone’s going to believe that’s a Matisse.”

“Bastard. I’ll have you know my art is perfection.” Ian sniffed.

Aidan turned to Keegan, and the Texan sighed. “Go ahead. Ain’t my fault if you don’t like what you see.”

After a moment, Aidan made a face. “You did that on purpose.”

Keegan grinned. “I surely did.”

“What? What did you see?” Ian pestered.

James and Keegan shared a smile before James said, “He caught an eyeful. And it wasn’t my fine ass or Keegan’s, I’m betting.”

Kitty nearly spit out her beer. “I am so telling Rory. You better not have shown him an image of her naked.”

James, Keegan, and Rory, their partner/wife—the third in their threesome—had always been nice to Gavin. He especially liked Rory and thought her beautiful, from a clearly aesthetic perspective.

“Aw, Kitty.” Keegan tipped back his cowboy hat. “Just screwing with the gay Viking.”

“Shut up, you overgrown hick,” Aidan growled. “Rory’s too good for you.”

“Don’t we know it.” James sighed. “Ow.” He glared at Keegan and rubbed his shoulder. “What did I say about hitting?”

“It won’t leave a mark.” Keegan shook his head. “Sissy.”

Gavin knew all about marks. His ass was still tender. Good Lord, had it only been that morning that Aidan had taken him?

“That, I heard.” Aidan’s grin took Gavin, and by the look of it, the whole table, by surprise.

“Shit. Aidan can smile. I knew it!” Ian laughed. “Good for you, Gavin, taming the beast.”

Aidan’s smile faded in an instant, and Gavin wished Ian had kept his big mouth shut.

“This disproves your theory, at least,” Gavin hurried to say. “I can’t read anyone’s mind. Try mine again.”

He recalled the instant he’d felt Aidan’s heart and soul entwine with his, floating all around, off the ground, and inside him. That connection had been so solid, and it made him so happy. He used it the way Aidan had told him to use the image of his mom, and incredibly it held. It brought back to mind his time in the PWP, when he used to do those mental exercises all the time. Like riding a bike, it returned to him in a rush.

Kitty blinked at him. “Wow. You are just glowing.”

“He is?” Aidan sat up and really looked at him. “That’s amazing. Earlier I could read him like an open book. Hell, like Keegan.”

“Fuck you.” Keegan flipped him off.

“A picture book, maybe,” Ian muttered. “I doubt the cowboy can read.”

Keegan narrowed his eyes, and Ian’s chair tilted back.

“Okay, okay. Just kidding.” Ian held up his hands. “Friggin’ kinetics…”

“So you’re saying Gavin can shield himself from you, but we can’t?” James asked. “Interesting.”

“Very.” Kitty gave Gavin a knowing glance. “Oh crap. We need more beer. Gavin, give me a hand.” She reached over Ian and yanked Gavin with her.

“Um, sure.”

Once away from sight of the table, Kitty walked him past the bar and into the hallway toward the restroom.

She leaned close to whisper, “Be very careful. He’s like a powder keg about to explode.”

“What?”

She swore and looked right and left. Then she pulled him with her into the women’s room. The bar wasn’t too crowded and had an upper-class clientele, so finding the two-stalled bathroom and adjoined powder room both clean and empty didn’t surprise him.

“Kitty, what the hell?”

She locked the door and faced him. “Look, I wanted to warn you. This mission is dangerous, and you’re going into it with a man so repressed, it’s a wonder he’s not in a straitjacket.”

“Aidan?”

“I’m not talking about Ian.” She pulled at her hair, one of Kitty’s telling signs that suggested she wasn’t comfortable with the conversation. “I don’t like doing this, but I want you two to succeed.” Her emphasis on two told him she meant more than the mission.

“Tell me.”

She spoke quickly. “Aidan had an abusive childhood, and he has trust issues. You’re going into a dangerous situation with a man who doesn’t trust easily. He’s putting that aside for the mission, because to Aidan, it’s all about the job, all the time. He’s successful, and people like his successes. But he takes it personally.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Aidan equates success with acceptance. If you guys fail at this, it will damage more than his reputation. He doesn’t have friends here, because he won’t let anyone in. You’re closer to him now than anyone has been in a long time. And it’s going to bite you in the ass.”

“Hey, anyone in there?” a woman asked through the door. The knob jostled.

“Cleaning up in here. Out in a minute,” Kitty yelled.

“Oh, I’ll come back.”

“Explain what the heck you’re talking about.” Gavin didn’t like this.

“He’s trusting you, Gavin. But he’s not comfortable with it. You’re going to have to take charge of Aidan at some point. Don’t you wonder why this assignment is perfect for him? Why he’s so into control? Because no one can hurt him if he doesn’t let them. You’re a tool to him right now, a means to an end. But you love him. I can feel it.”

Gavin gaped, stunned she could think he felt so deeply for a man he hadn’t even liked much before yesterday. “Please. How can you love a person you barely know?”

“Love is what it is. It’s not logical. And say what you want, but you’re glowing with it.”

“I’ve known about him for years, and I have no idea where he’s even from.”

“But did you really know him? And does knowing his background really change how you’ll feel about him, or who he is now?”

“No.” Gavin felt more than nervous, because her words held a ring of truth. “We had sex. A couple times.” He couldn’t believe he’d blurted that out, but Kitty made him feel like he could share anything. And he didn’t think she consciously manipulated him to share. He just needed to talk to someone about this.

“Yeah. Jack and I discussed this mission. The thing is, with you, sex leads to emotion. It opens the same door with Aidan. He just shuts it before it can become anything lasting. No boyfriends, no long-term commitments. But Gavin, he’s feeling something fiery for you. Be careful. You can help set him free; just don’t get blown up in the process.”

She looked in the mirror, fixed her hair, and smoothed her shirt. Then she pulled him with her to the door.

His mind was reeling. Aidan felt something fiery? What did fiery mean, exactly? And why the hell was his heart racing like a jackrabbit? “Why is everyone always tugging me like a dog on a leash?”

“Because you’re as cute as a puppy. I want to rub your ears,” she teased, unlocked the door, and pulled him out of the bathroom past a few surprised and annoyed women.

When Kitty saw them, she stopped. “I’m so sorry. My friend felt ill. His boyfriend isn’t working out.” She shook her head.

Gavin felt the settling of psychic miasma, that heaviness to the air that told him psychic energy was misplaced. Kitty at work, no doubt, since the annoyance on the women’s faces turned to empathy.

“Good luck, honey. Men suck. No offense,” one of them said as she passed him into the restroom.

“None taken. And thanks.” At the word suck, he couldn’t help thinking of Aidan again.

Kitty groaned and walked ahead of him. “Why is it whenever anyone says suck or blow, you guys always think with the wrong head? Too much libido. Ugh.” She smacked her forehead, and Gavin grinned.

But as they made their way to the bar and ordered another round of beer and chips, he couldn’t help worrying about what she’d said.

Finding someone to love, someone like Aidan, a tough Master who fit his needs, was a dream come true. Having that love slapped back in his face? A nightmare, because Gavin had no idea what loving Aidan might do to him.

Or why, for a smart guy, Gavin might have made the dumbest mistake of his life.

Chapter Six

Aidan spent the next two days schooling Gavin in the fine art of bondage and obedience. Nothing too rough or too strange. Just a lot of conditioning so that Gavin would respond as if he and Aidan had a real relationship. They hadn’t spent all their time fucking, unfortunately. They’d also reviewed everything they knew about Carl Kerr, his men, and their fake new identities. Jack had given them information that borrowed details from a few low-key badasses in the Northwest, enough to withstand intense scrutiny. But Aidan didn’t plan to stick around Kerr’s estate any longer than he had to. The operation had taken a strange turn into something he wasn’t sure he was comfortable with.

Gavin had taken to bondage like a cat to cream, and Aidan wanted to be more annoyed by the fact that the man’s tastes mirrored his own. They had similar likes and dislikes, and what they didn’t have in common complemented one another. Both hated chick flicks and loved adventure movies. Aidan was an ass man; Gavin liked a nice muscular chest and arms. And of course, both liked a nice cock—thus both were perfectly satisfied with each other’s bodies. Aidan liked to dominate, and Gavin loved to submit.

They both agreed that Jack needed to be handled with kid gloves, that James and Keegan were sexy but too annoying for anyone other than each other and Rory, and that Ian would in time get his ass handed to him, and not in a good way.

As Aidan looked in on his partner sleeping in their bed, he realized how much he liked having Gavin in his home—his sanctuary—and it scared him. Thoughts of permanence and a real relationship had no place in a mission workup, yet Aidan continued to tell himself they needed this kind of bone-deep trust to be convincing. He spoke the truth, but he also worried, because a larger part of him secretly hoped their connection might continue after the job wrapped up.

If he didn’t get them both killed because he couldn’t think past his lover.

God, so many times he’d had to stop himself from hugging or kissing Gavin better. Pushing Gavin past his limits was simultaneously rewarding and frightening. He learned more control himself because he didn’t want to hurt his sub. They’d spent the past twenty-four hours fully immersed in the lifestyle. Gavin no longer hesitated when Aidan told him what to do. The blue-eyed wonder boy had gotten himself off riding a dildo and pleasuring himself at Aidan’s command. Granted, he’d blushed while doing it, but he hadn’t questioned the order. He sucked like a dream, and it felt like his ass had been made with Aidan in mind.

Such a tight fucking fit. Aidan adjusted himself in his pajama pants, feeling like a moron for standing around with a woody when his boy could have relieved him. But that would mean giving in to his own desire, and he shouldn’t need Gavin this much. A good Master didn’t cave to anything. He held on to his discipline and didn’t let anger or petty desires sway him from seeing to his sub. Aidan’s sub needed rest. He’d been ridden hard, had come more than he had in months. Hell, a year, to hear Gavin tell it.

Or think it.

Though his boy could still maintain a psychic shield, the moment they touched, his ability to withstand Aidan’s telepathy went out the window. And since they’d been fucking a lot, they had constant contact. To his bewilderment, he felt a strange contentment just being around Gavin. When Gavin stroked him in those rare moments at rest, Aidan’s heart did funny things.

He experienced odd butterflies in his stomach, a racing pulse, dry mouth, nerves where he had never in his life been nervous—well, not since leaving home. An excited form of anticipation filled him when he looked into Gavin’s sky-blue eyes, and he had to suppress the joy while feeling like a moron. He was letting Gavin’s gooey emotions stir him to think impossible things.

Things Gavin might no longer think he felt after tomorrow. Aidan didn’t like it, but it had to be done. He couldn’t afford to feel this way. It might cost them their lives on this mission, and he knew for a fact that if he allowed himself to love Gavin, it would break Aidan’s heart when it ended. Men didn’t love Aidan. They lusted after him or wanted to be him—the man they thought they knew. No one wanted to know the real Aidan Marshall.

A small part of him whispered back, Gavin does. And that strange quiver of excitement hit him again. Because what if Gavin didn’t hate what they had to do, but wanted to experience all of it? What if he didn’t fly away when it was all over?

What then?

* * *

The following afternoon in his darkened basement, Aidan watched as Gavin studied Aidan’s buff, sexy friend Mike. Trepidation lit his boy’s eyes, and his body had yet to relax. Of course, the chains holding his wrists and ankles in place might have had something to do with his tension.

A sinking sensation had Aidan’s stomach roiling, but he held fast.

Gavin wore nothing but the smooth skin God had given him. No chest hair, all muscle and sinew, and a cock that wouldn’t quit. Even now, alarmed and no doubt embarrassed to be naked in front of a stranger, he was long and thick.

“Nice. He’s big.” Mike wore a pair of leather chaps and nothing else. He was fully shaved, his cock and ass nicely framed by black leather. He had an inch on Aidan in height, though he wasn’t as large in muscle mass. But Mike knew his way around a dungeon. He gave Aidan what he needed—physical enjoyment, a mutual respect, and nothing more. Just the way Aidan preferred his relationships.

Mike had muscle and bravado and a handsome cock. He also had looks, which had first snared Aidan’s interest. A face too beautiful for a man on a build no one would find anything but threatening. His darker skin tone hinted at a Middle Eastern or South American influence. Aidan didn’t know his background and didn’t care. He and Mike helped each other out and played together when needed. And Mike knew all about being safe, which Aidan demanded of his sexual partners.

“Sir?” Gavin croaked when Mike cupped him.

A sense of jealousy and possession consumed him, but Aidan also felt pride watching his partner fill out under Mike’s touch. Gavin was so fucking beautiful, so damn sexy. And he would flourish under Mike’s tutelage. Aidan could sense it, and he didn’t like it.

Gavin didn’t have a chance to reject Mike, not with his restraints. The small platform upon which they stood took away any pain from overextension on Gavin’s shoulders. But he couldn’t move, not unless Aidan lengthened or freed his bonds.

“You remember your safe word?” Aidan asked. A word Gavin had chosen days ago, before Aidan would even think of playing around with D/s shit. Not that he had gone whole hog with Gavin, but he’d toyed with role-play enough to know his little sub would embrace a more serious lifestyle.

Gavin nodded.

“Say it.”

“Gingerbread.”

Aidan didn’t want there to be any confusion. He for sure didn’t want to hurt Gavin more than necessary. He’d never been into pain or humiliation. He just liked control. And the bondage thing… Hell, Gavin looked incredible in chains. Aidan intended to put a collar on him before they left for California. The thought of his boy wearing Aidan’s ownership would have turned him rock hard if he hadn’t already been aroused seeing Gavin naked and bound.

Aidan knew today had to happen. Tomorrow they’d attend a kink party using their fake names among sadistic criminals. If Gavin couldn’t handle exhibition, it would be better to know now. Aidan hated the thought, but if he had to choose between getting Gavin killed or hurting Gavin’s chances to recover from a mission gone wrong, he’d ruin Gavin’s livelihood before letting him get killed. No question.

“Do you like his touch?” Aidan asked, his voice light. He joined Mike on the other side of Gavin’s upright body and put a hand on his boy’s hip to reinforce the connection. “Mike has big hands. Nice, fat fingers for stretching out a tight ass. Tell me, boy. Tell the truth.”

Gavin closed his eyes while Mike masturbated him. If anything, Gavin grew more aroused. His breathing was choppy, the tip of his cock wet, and when Aidan reached under him, he felt two stiff, tight balls signaling his lover’s climb toward orgasm. Motherfucker, but he wanted to screw Gavin so hard right now. To claim that ass and show Mike where Gavin belonged.

So he let Gavin go and stepped back, trying to watch with a clinical detachment.

To Aidan’s discomfort, the notion of loss and confusion sat foremost in Gavin’s mind. Then his sexual urgency returned, and he rocked into Mike’s grip, humping that rough hand. Gavin might not like Mike there, but he wanted him.

“Yes,” Gavin whispered.

“What? I can’t hear you.” Aidan moved close to jerk Gavin’s chin up, surprised at the anger there. “Talk, boy. Tell me what you like.”

“I like him touching me.” Defiance flashed in his gaze. “Sir.”

Aidan liked the bite of Gavin’s fury as much as he regretted seeing it. Something else he’d feared might happen—that he’d open a sensual doorway through which Gavin would disappear. A man like Mike could definitely satisfy Gavin’s needs; he didn’t have half the issues Aidan did, he was hot, and he knew how to fuck. Why the hell would Gavin stay with Aidan when the mission ended if he had Mike as an option?

Gavin continued without being told to speak. “I like him touching me…because you can see it. And it makes you so hard, Sir.”

As evidenced by the tight-fitting black leather clinging to Aidan’s hard-on. A thick zipper was all that stood between fucking Gavin himself and keeping it together. He’d donned the sporty gear to remind himself that tonight was a means to an end, not another scene to further his new relationship with Gavin.

Mike chuckled. “I like your boy.” He leaned closer and nipped Gavin’s earlobe while still rubbing his cock. “He’s getting bigger. And he’s wet.” Mike pulled a groan out of Gavin, then stilled his hand. “I bet he’d love to watch me suck you off. That gets you hard too.”

Gavin jerked, and the fury on his face made Aidan’s heart leap. Christ, Gavin was jealous. Ecstatic and wishing he felt nothing but a zeal for the job, Aidan tried to ignore what his heart kept telling him—that Gavin wasn’t in love with the idea of what Aidan represented; he loved Aidan.

Not possible. Just a few days ago, Gavin had looked at him as if he loathed him. And hell, Aidan wasn’t all that lovable. It had to be that Gavin, the poor guy, simply couldn’t understand the difference between sex and affection. Which explained why Gavin had been so different the past few days. Why he’d been all over himself to submit, or why he kept sharing parts of himself Aidan wished he hadn’t.

Why the hell should Aidan care that Gavin’s dad had died and that it had crushed him? Or that Gavin loved spending the holidays with his mother and that they baked cookies together? Fucking gingerbread men. The guy was a walking greeting card. Those soft eyes when he looked at Aidan made Aidan think of home and hearth, a future he’d never once considered for himself.

But Gavin wasn’t so soft now, was he? Not so caring with the thought of Mike’s hands or mouth all over his partner. He apparently didn’t like the idea of Mike and Aidan fucking. Aidan tucked away his regret about what he had to do. This would help them both center on the mission again.

He had to clear his throat to speak. “Good idea, Mike. Your lips are enough to get a eunuch hard.” He nodded to the leather flogger by Mike’s side. To Gavin he said, “We’re going to play with you. You’ll do what you’re told. No matter what you’re ordered to do.” He gripped Gavin by the hair and yanked his head back. “Do you understand, boy?”

Gavin answered through gritted teeth, “Yes, Sir.” You son of a bitch. You’re going to pay for this.

Aidan smiled. He’d anticipated his little sub would break sooner rather than later. No way Gavin could maintain all the cuddly shit without being himself once more. To Aidan’s surprise, he preferred this firecracker to the tender submissive he’d dealt with.

The passion and rage gave Gavin a beauty Aidan had rarely seen in most men. He was so fucking real, so true. What Gavin thought, he allowed to show on his face. No lies, but a mess of carnal need Aidan could more than satisfy. It was the emotional stuff that bogged him down.

Aidan stepped off the platform and centered himself in front of his boy. “Mike, come here.”

Fucking asshole. Always in charge. But you’re mine, not his.

Gavin’s response inflamed him. So much for remaining detached.

Aidan made sure to keep himself and Mike in Gavin’s view, so that Gavin could watch them in profile. Every kiss, touch, and thrust would be visible. Without asking, Mike dropped to his knees and took Aidan’s cock out of his tight black pants. The long zipper provided access to his balls as well, and Aidan spread his feet wide to give Mike all the room he needed.

While his buddy started sucking him off, Aidan kept his gaze on Gavin. “Watch, boy, while I fuck his mouth. The way I fuck yours.” Aidan was on fire, loving Gavin’s flash of envy, needing that connection to deepen on a level he wasn’t comfortable with but heedless to deny.

Gavin hated Mike there as much as he loved watching his Master get blown. The sheer lust in his boy made Aidan’s knees weak, and he reminded himself that he was in charge. He eased his fingers through Mike’s soft hair and thrust into his mouth with short jabs, taking back control. Except in his mind’s eye, it wasn’t Mike he fucked but Gavin. He shoved harder, to the back of Mike’s throat, and pinned Mike against his pelvis. Mike, used to such play, didn’t flinch. He gagged once and relaxed, not protesting the sudden loss of breath.

Panting with pleasure, Aidan said to Gavin, “See how he accepts me? No fighting. No upset that he can’t breathe.” Aidan released his tight hold and eased Mike back, turned on to hear him wheezing. “He knows I’ll take care of him.”

You shouldn’t be touching him. You’re only supposed to make love to me.

Aidan shook his head. Again with the love. He hated that he longed to hold on to that emotion with every fiber of his being. Gavin scared the shit out of him, and he worked to keep his tone even as he replied, “Your Master likes fucking Mike’s mouth. And if that makes me happy, shouldn’t that make you happy?”

A well of shame flooded Gavin. He settled back into his role and nodded. “Yes, Sir.”

“You want to see Mike make me come, don’t you, boy?”

Gavin’s eyes glittered. “Yes, Sir.” He licked his lips and stared at Aidan’s cock. “Very much, Sir.”

“Mike, make me come.” Aidan stared at Gavin as Mike blew him like a pro. “Good. Now I’m going to show my little sub what he’s missing. Open up.” Aidan withdrew, then groaned as he spent into Mike’s open mouth, over that talented tongue.

Oh fuck. That’s so hot. I want to swallow that load. In me.

Aidan knew a sense of peace. The orgasm meant so much more than a physical release because Gavin was there. He pulled back, his dick wet and semihard. He didn’t tuck himself back in either but left himself out for Gavin to see.

“It’s sex, plain and simple.” I wish it were that easy with you. “He did what I told him to. And he’s convincing. You can tell he and I have played before, can’t you?”

“Yes, Sir.” Gavin understood. Finally.

“So if I tell Mike to fuck you, you’ll welcome it. If I tell you to suck him off, you’ll do it without question. If he flogs you and comes all over your back, you’ll thank me for letting him. Do you see how this works? It’s not going to be just you and me tomorrow. When we’re hundreds of miles away on the coast, surrounded by strangers, I’ll keep you tight by my side and be the possessive Dom. But you’ll have to do things to prove I control you.”

“Yes, Sir.”

Hoping he’d made his point, Aidan stepped up onto the platform, released Gavin’s wrists from his cuffs, and lengthened the chain holding down his legs. After rubbing his lover’s arms to restore circulation, he pulled a waist-high padded bench closer. “Lean over this.”

With his feet spread wide and his chest now flush against the bench, Gavin’s fine ass was on display.

“You’re going to blow Mike until I tell you to stop. And you’ll treat him as if he were me. Kiss that fat dick; suck his cum. Eat him up like the good boy I know you can be. Can you do that?”

“Yes, Sir.” Gavin flushed and bit his lower lip. “Whatever you want, Sir.”

Mike walked onto the platform and waited, rock hard and thick. “I like him bent over. So when do I get to fuck his fine ass?”

Aidan didn’t like the notion of sharing Gavin, and that bothered him. If they hadn’t needed to go to that stupid party, he doubted he’d have done this. Except his boy’s cock remained hard, and he had a feeling Gavin secretly wanted to play.

“I’ll have to think about that,” he said in response to Mike’s request. “It all depends on my boy. Does he deserve to be fucked? Should I let him come? We’ll see.”

Aidan stepped behind Mike and wrapped his hand around Mike’s thick shaft. Then he guided Mike into Gavin’s open mouth.

Mike groaned as Gavin worked him, and those rosy lips hugging a darker cock aroused Aidan all over again. While he watched Gavin sucking off his friend, Aidan noted how he clenched his hands by his side, how he humped the air behind the bench, eager to fuck.

Gavin could protest all he wanted, but he liked this. Not that Aidan could blame him. Mike had a hell of a body. His cock was a thing of beauty, but not better than Gavin’s, in Aidan’s opinion.

He let his boy pleasure Mike and circled behind him. Taking a tube of lube out of the nearby dresser, he greased up two fingers. When he touched Gavin’s lower back, Gavin started, but he didn’t stop blowing Mike.

“God, he sucks like a dream.” Mike groaned. “Where you been hiding, boy? I could use a cocksucker like you in my club.”

Just what Aidan didn’t need to hear. As far as Mike knew, tonight was all about playing with Aidan’s new sub, nothing more serious than some fun in group dynamics.

“Fuck, I need to come.”

“Hold it. Not yet,” Aidan ordered.

Mike grimaced but nodded, and Aidan squeezed the lube over his fingers. He parted Gavin’s ass cheeks and rimmed his hole with a finger, loving the shudders and moans Gavin made, his mouth stuffed full with Mike. Aidan inched his finger inside, then added a second. He took his time stretching Gavin, preparing him for something bigger.

Despite the vast amount of sex they’d had the last few days, Gavin remained tight. He wasn’t used to so much activity, and Aidan had to force himself to stop being so damn happy about that fact. A more experienced sub would be easier to train. Aidan would feel more confident with a man who knew the score, so that when they played games around Kerr, he wouldn’t worry so much. But instead he couldn’t stop reveling in being Gavin’s only lover right now. Hence the need for Mike.

Mike was breathing hard, his face a study in agony. “Fuck, Aidan. I’m gonna come if he doesn’t ease off.”

“Boy, release Mike’s cock.”

Gavin eased off and licked his lips.

“Put on a condom, Mike.” He watched Mike grab one from a stash in the dresser and handed his buddy the lube. “Grease up.” He turned to Gavin. “Watch him. See how big you made him? Now that poker is going in your ass. And while he fucks you, you’re going to know I’m watching you. Every expression, every thought in that head. I’m going to know what you’re feeling.”

Gavin’s forehead was covered in sweat.

“But first you need some attention. Straighten up.”

Gavin rose unsteadily but caught his balance. His cock was beautiful. Flushed, engorged, and wet.

“You look tasty. I bet you’d like to come.”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Wrong answer.”

Gavin blinked. “Sir?”

“Mike?”

Mike shook his head and positioned himself behind Gavin. “You want only to make your Master happy. If it pleases him. All of your answers should be, ‘If it pleases you, Sir.’” He smacked Gavin on the ass. “Got it?”

“Y-yes, Sir.”

“Good boy.” Mike rubbed his flank. “Nice marks. He holds it well. I see a bit of bruising here.”

“I know.” But Aidan was more curious about Gavin’s pert nipples than his ass right then. He moved the bench out of the way and leaned forward to take Gavin’s nipple between his teeth. Gavin’s reaction pleased him.

His boy groaned and stood up on tiptoe while Aidan worried the hard nub. Then Aidan sucked hard and pinched his other nipple.

“Please, Sir,” Gavin rasped. “You have to stop.”

“Why?”

“I’m going to come.”

“Nice. Sensitive there, eh?” Mike grinned and rubbed more lube over himself. “I bet he’d look so pretty with clamps.”

Aidan agreed. “A cock ring too. You said you’ve tried the clamps before, yes?” he asked Gavin.

Gavin nodded.

“What?”

“Yes, Sir.” His husky voice and pearling cock spoke for him.

So fucking beautiful. “Stand tall. I’m going to dress you up.” Aidan found a pair of gold clamps attached by a thin chain that he’d set out earlier. He sucked Gavin’s nipple, then fastened the clip on using a lighter tension. Gavin’s hiss of pleasure and rocking pelvis were too much for Mike.

“Christ. Let me get inside him.”

Aidan shook his head. “Not yet.” He applied the other clip and gave the chain a tug.

A small spurt of precum jetted from Gavin’s tip. Aidan leaned down to lick it off, and Gavin begged him for mercy.

“How pretty. He’s so polite.” Mike hugged Gavin, rubbing against his ass, and Gavin leaned his head back, his mouth parted on another moan.

Aidan heard his mental cries for release. The clamps were his key. The man had a major sensitivity about his chest.

“Take him, Mike. Not too hard. He’s tight.” And he’s mine. But just for the mission. “Lean over and grab on to me, boy. Hold me while Mike fucks you. At no time are you allowed to look away from my eyes.”

Gavin swallowed hard. “Yes, S-sir.”

Aidan watched as a good Dom should, taking note of his sub’s expressions. Mike’s intrusion hurt, because Gavin winced. But Mike obeyed. He slowly inched into Gavin’s ass, his own forehead wrinkled with concentration as he did his best to be careful.

“You feel full?” Aidan asked Gavin.

“Yes, Sir. Oh God. Yes.”

Aidan grinned. Gavin’s soft breaths warmed his chest, and the unfocused glaze in his eyes gave Aidan more joy than he’d imagined he might receive. Watching Gavin take his pleasure made all of this right. A good boy, Gavin did exactly as ordered. He stared at Aidan while Mike took him.

The jerky motions of his body, the sway of the gold chain between his nipples, his parted lips and little moans—all of it signaled he’d reached his end. And not once had he come, though Aidan could hear how much he struggled against it.

“Come hard, Mike.” Aidan watched Mike fuck Gavin with a greater zeal, and knowing how much Gavin needed it, he initiated deeper contact. He tilted Gavin’s chin up. “Kiss me, baby,” he murmured, and nearly lost it when Gavin yanked him closer and kissed him with so much passion, Aidan was surprised they didn’t combust.

Mike swore and groaned, pumping inside Gavin like crazy. Gavin thrust his tongue inside Aidan, practically raping his mouth as he did his best not to come. Aidan loved his desperation, saw that he’d pushed Gavin as hard as he could go, and prodded him to release. He tugged at Gavin’s chain and nipped his way to Gavin’s ear. “Come, boy. All over your Master.” Aidan slid his hand over Gavin’s cock and squeezed.

Gavin cried out and came like a waterfall. Jets of seed hit Aidan’s belly while Gavin moaned his name over and over.

Mike just stood behind him, lost in climax. His hands tightly gripped Gavin’s waist, his entire body locked into the delightful sub who had finally followed orders.

“You make me happy, boy,” Aidan murmured as he allowed Gavin to come down.

He shared a grin with Mike. But when he looked down at Gavin, he didn’t expect to see tears, or that they’d get to him in a place he’d thought long dead.

Chapter Seven

Gavin felt like a complete pussy, but he couldn’t stop himself. Coming so hard after being that aroused hurt, but not as much as accepting how much he cared for Aidan. He knew he shouldn’t be acting this way, but he couldn’t stop himself. The clamps, another man fucking him while Aidan watched, and then having Aidan call him baby—it all reminded him that Aidan could be his if only the big man would take a chance.

Not the best time for matters of the heart to come crashing down, but hell, when was a good time? They were getting more and more dangerous jobs, thanks to Stallbridge. And who knew if their mission would be a success, or if one of them would die trying to succeed? Gavin couldn’t imagine being without Aidan by his side, and he had a terrible feeling if he didn’t fetch that book back, he’d be on a one-way trip out of Bend.

Oddly enough, he had a feeling Aidan wanted the same thing: a connection with Gavin that would continue past this mission.

He’d seen Aidan looking at him when he didn’t think Gavin was watching. He’d felt the subtle pets, the gentle strokes over his heart that pierced his soul. Aidan could read minds, but he refused to read emotions. Kitty had nailed it.

The thing was, Gavin had liked being handled by another man while Aidan watched. But only because Aidan watched. As much as Aidan pretended not to care, he’d looked way too possessive, even for a man only supposed to be a pretend Master.

Aidan scowled, and Gavin didn’t bother hiding his thoughts. You want me more than you like.

“More than is healthy,” Aidan corrected in a growl.

Mike slowly withdrew from Gavin’s ass, and Gavin shivered, sensitive and still coming down off his endorphin rush.

“Give us a few minutes, Mike.”

Mike nodded at Aidan. “I’ll go clean up and be back in five.”

They waited in silence until Mike left. His footsteps sounded loud going up the stairs.

“You’re not playing your part.” Aidan crossed his arms over his chest.

To Gavin’s delight, his lover’s cock was more than hard again. And some of it was covered in Gavin’s semen. “Sure I am. I’m a defiant sub who needs his Master’s discipline.” He smiled at Aidan, aware that every time he did, an almost hunted expression crept over the blond’s face.

Just like it did now. Gavin caught a glimpse of the man he wanted to belong to. Aidan wanted him, but he didn’t know how to admit or accept it. Gavin might be a PWP screwup, but he knew human emotion. Sitting on the sidelines ensured he’d seen it all. And Kitty’s input helped him understand why his lover refused to bend.

“You do need discipline,” Aidan muttered and ran a hand through his blond hair. “What’s with the tears?” Even as he growled the question, he wiped Gavin’s cheeks, the touch soothing and soft.

“I don’t know. You tell me.”

Aidan huffed out a breath. “It’s not like Mike pounded you into subspace. You shouldn’t be experiencing such a big release.”

“You’re not reading my mind.”

“Sex is an intimacy that should tell me what I need to know. I’ve been reading your body. I’m trying not to read your mind, because when we’re in California, I’ll be focused on the bad guys. You need to be on my same page. I can’t worry about you when we’re there.”

“But you will.”

Aidan flushed—the first time Gavin could recall seeing the man turn red. “I will not.”

Aidan cared, though he didn’t want to. But that was enough to satisfy Gavin. “I’m sorry I cried.”

“So am I.” Aidan looked torn, but then he leaned close and kissed Gavin. The comforting gesture filled that void in Gavin’s heart, and he wanted to cry all over again, ecstatic because Aidan couldn’t help himself. He jerked when his leg chains tightened around his ankles.

“Shit. You can’t be doing that tomorrow.” Aidan was suddenly eye level, and Gavin realized he’d levitated.

“Sorry. I promise I won’t do it tomorrow. This sex and bondage stuff is tiring, you know?”

Aidan laughed. “Yeah, especially when you have to train a bratty, sexy new boy.” His grin left him. “Mike didn’t hurt you.” Not a question, but Aidan paused, as if needing an answer.

“No.”

“He likes you. He came hard up your ass.”

Gavin shrugged. “Yeah, and he sucked your cock and looked more than happy doing it.”

They regarded each other with frowns.

Aidan took the cowardly way out. “You should be calling me Sir.”

“And you shouldn’t be so jealous.” Gavin wanted to shout with happiness when Aidan colored. Again. “I’m attracted to him. But you’re the one I want to go down on. You’re the one I want to sleep with, the one I want fucking me, filling me up.” He glanced down and reached for Aidan without asking. “You’re the one I want to swallow, Master.”

Aidan rasped, “Damn it. I’m in charge here.”

“Tell me what to do, Sir. Let me please you. It makes me so happy to serve you.”

Aidan closed his eyes and clenched his jaw tight, but he didn’t move away from Gavin’s hands. Gavin wasn’t sure what Aidan might have done if they hadn’t heard Mike’s footsteps.

Aidan pulled away and glared. Then he unlocked Gavin’s ankles and hefted him over his shoulder.

Gavin let out an oomph, shocked anew that Aidan could carry him with such ease. He felt like a rag doll in the arms of a blond grizzly.

“Oh, that’s a picture. Especially with your dick like a fucking pike.” Mike snickered.

“Shut up and get that fat dildo. The one that’s wider than my dick.” Aidan dumped Gavin onto the bed in the corner of his dungeon. “I want to watch my boy ride it while he sucks us both off.”

“Oh, nice. What about the flogger and the cock ring?”

Aidan’s mean grin made Gavin’s cock twitch. God, he loved the man, and the delight he felt in the knowledge allowed him to brick up his mental shield and hold it tight. Just what Aidan had wanted him to achieve, and knowing he’d make Aidan proud only made his shield that much stronger.

“Good.” Aidan nodded. “The flogger and cock ring? Get them. Time to see what my boy is really made of.”

Hours later, after Mike had come twice more and departed, Gavin lay on his belly like a limp noodle in the middle of the mattress. Toys and devices lay on the tables on either side of the bed. His wrists and ankles were sore from the manacles used on him earlier, and his ass felt like he’d been forced to sit on hot coals. The flogger had given him an amazing rush, and though he’d exploded when Aidan had spanked him while Mike sucked him dry, his ass hurt, not used to such beatings.

He hissed when Aidan ran a cool rag over his buttocks.

“Shh. Easy, baby. That’s good.” Aidan finished wiping him up, then put a soothing gel on his flesh. “You bruise easily. You’ll look well used when we show up tomorrow.”

“Yeah?” Did Aidan ever think about anything other than the mission?

“Sometimes.”

It took Gavin a moment to realize Aidan had answered his unasked question. Since their time on the bed earlier, Aidan had refused to read him.

“What do you think about?” Gavin asked quietly. He turned his head over his crossed arms. The dim lighting in the basement lent a romantic feel to the room, despite the various chains and discipline equipment. “Why are you so alone, Aidan? You have a great sense of humor—when you’re not making fun of me.”

Aidan snorted.

“You’re smart and sexy. Hell, Mike would take you on permanently in a heartbeat. I could see it.” And that annoyed the hell out of him.

Aidan sat on the bed next to him. “Mike’s a good fuck buddy. But that’s it.”

“Why?”

“Because I’m not normal. I don’t have normal relationships.”

Gavin remained quiet and hopeful, aware Aidan was opening up when he’d never done so before.

“I read minds.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.”

Aidan sighed. “I don’t normally pry. I don’t like knowing what other people think. It’s better not to know. People who know what I can do are usually cautious around me. They fear my ability. They hate it.”

They hate me, Gavin all but heard him say.

“Jack keeps me on because I get results. The team deals with me because I’m a peer. We’re not friends.” Aidan lay down on his side, leaned on his elbow, and rested his head on his hand. “Are we friends?”

“No. We’re more than that.”

Aidan nodded. “Partners.”

“Lovers.”

Aidan frowned. “Well, yeah, but because—”

“Tell me something from your childhood. Something no one else knows.”

Aidan’s face went blank.

“Don’t hide from me.” Where Gavin’s sudden sense of confidence came from, he couldn’t say, but he knew he needed to talk to Aidan about something more meaningful than sex or the mission. He wanted to know Aidan, the whole man. Not just bits and pieces of his PWP résumé. So he continued to hold that shield inside him tight. “Can you read my mind now?”

Aidan frowned. “No. You’re doing really well. I could probably push into your thoughts, but it’s not easy.”

“Good. That session with Mike was hard for me. It seemed easy, because you were there. But I’m kind of a shy person.”

Aidan didn’t respond.

“I know I sound like a pussy, but knowing more about you makes this easier to bear. Like, we’re in it together, you know?”

“I guess.”

Gavin nodded. “Now it’s your turn. Tell me something you’ve kept secret.”

Aidan blinked at him. “I’m not that interesting. Really.”

“Why are you so scared? You know all about me.”

Aidan grunted. He reached out and rested a hand on Gavin’s lower back. “Because you won’t shut up.”

Gavin huffed and would have rolled over when Aidan held him fast.

“Fine. My mother died when I was four. I lived with my father and his drug habit until I was ten. Then I ran away. Happy now?”

Gavin stanched the pity he could see Aidan expected and didn’t want. “Did your dad know you could read minds?”

“Oh yeah. He used me to keep us ahead of creditors, junkies, and dealers. Until I turned it against him.” Aidan’s face twisted into a sneer. “I told his dealer my old man was holding out on him, about the stash of drugs he’d stolen, and that my father was a snitch. Then I left. Never heard from the old man again. I’m a hell of a son, eh?”

Gavin forced himself to show little emotion. “That sucks. No gingerbread men for you, I guess.”

Aidan snorted. “Hell, no.” Aidan removed his hand from Gavin’s back, so Gavin reached out to link their fingers together.

“I like you.”

“Bullshit. Your body likes mine. We’re on a mission together, one that requires us to be tight. Adrenaline and need, dude. That’s it. Five days ago, you couldn’t stand me.”

“You were always making fun of me. Why should I have liked you?”

“Exactly.”

“But that’s not the case now, and you know it.” Gavin scooted closer and kissed Aidan’s mouth, his chin, then his cheeks. “Does this happen on all your assignments?”

“Hell no.” Aidan took a deep breath and let it slowly release. He returned Gavin’s kiss with a sweetness that brought tears to Gavin’s eyes. “But we can’t let this get complicated. We have to focus on the mission. Jack needs us to concentrate on finding that book.”

“Success.” Gavin kissed Aidan again, and before he knew it, Aidan had rolled onto his back and pulled Gavin on top of him.

Gavin laid his head on Aidan’s chest and heard his lover’s heart racing. He smiled to himself.

“I can feel you grinning. What the hell is so funny?”

“I’m happy.”

“Why?” Aidan sounded genuinely puzzled. “I don’t get the joy. I know you feel it. I can hear you laughing like a loon in your mind. But I don’t know why.”

Gavin snuggled closer. Aidan was like a furnace, all fiery heat and angry denial. “Tell you what. After we make it out of Mendocino in one piece—with the book—I’ll tell you.”

Aidan sighed. “Sure. Fine. Piece of cake.”

Gavin drifted off to sleep, but he heard Aidan’s quiet reassurance as the man hugged him tight and kissed the top of his head. “We’ll make good on this together. I promise I won’t let anything happen to you.”

* * *

The next day came earlier than he’d wanted. Gavin barely had time for a cup of coffee before he and Aidan packed up and left on a private plane. They touched down in Santa Rosa, and Gavin drove them in a rental the rest of the way. Three hours in the car next to a control freak stretched his nerves to the breaking point.

He refused to move through the next stoplight. “We’re not in a scene now. I swear, if you tell me one more time how to drive, I’m going to run us off the road and personally strangle you.”

Aidan just looked at him. Mr. Sexy, all dark and brooding. He wore black jeans, a black silk shirt, and a black leather jacket over the ensemble. His shoulder-length hair looked windblown, and his dark eyes were questioning. “Pitching a fit? You’re so cute when you’re angry.”

Gavin swore as Aidan laughed.

“Yeah, those blue eyes are shooting sparks at me. Gets me hard, baby.”

“Shut up, you big freak.” Gavin tried not to smile.

“I’m just trying to get your mind off your worries. You look strung out enough to snap. Don’t worry. We’ll play our parts, and this will go off without a hitch. Just remember. Call me Sir, and only speak when spoken to. That way you’ll have less chance of fucking up.”

“Gee, thanks for the pep talk, Aidan.”

“No problem, boy.” Aidan grinned when they started driving again.

Half an hour later, they reached Kerr’s huge estate on the coast. His house overlooked the ocean, a secluded spot half a mile from his neighbors on either side. Gavin and Aidan had fully reconnoitered the area using the aerial photos and blueprints Jack had given them in the files they’d left at home. They didn’t want to chance anyone finding their notes during the party.

“Just remember. It’s two days of intense play. I pretend to be a high roller who likes to play rough. You do what you’re told, period.” Aidan cleared his throat, and Gavin glanced at him before turning his gaze back to the road. “You look good in that collar. I like it.”

Gavin fingered the leather collar Aidan had fastened around his throat before he’d gotten into the car. The leather matched the vest he wore beneath his coat. He wore tight leather pants as well, white ones lined with buttons on the sides for easy access. There was no fly either, just that tight leather hugging his naked body. He felt aroused and prickly, with only the leather keeping him from Aidan.

“This is a lot of leather.”

“Yeah, but I can’t wait to rip those pants off you.” Aidan’s smile was there in his voice. “And I brought the clamps for your pert little nipples. Next time when you come like a geyser, everyone will be complimenting me on how pretty my sub is.”

“Shut up.”

Aidan laughed. “Just keep that irritation fixed on me, and you’ll do fine. We’ll get the book and hotfoot it out of here. No way in hell Kerr will touch you without me breaking off a hand. The more I read about him, the more I realize we need to be in and out ASAP. I plan for us to be gone by Sunday.”

“Yeah, well, I’m not the only one who needs to be careful. What if Kerr decides he doesn’t want me? He wants the blond god I’m with.”

“‘God.’ I like that.”

“Don’t be an idiot. You know you’re hot.” Gavin didn’t look at his partner as he clenched his hands around the wheel.

“I’m glad you think I’m sexy. The only thing my old man ever did for me, I guess. Tall, blond, and good-looking.” He shrugged, sounding less arrogant than simply stating a fact. “But I’m not Kerr’s type. He likes them pretty, not rugged. Soft and vulnerable, not hard and unemotional. He wants a slight boy he can break. He looks at me the wrong way, I’ll snap him in half.”

“You snap him in half, and we’re not getting in and out without drawing too much attention to ourselves,” Gavin muttered. “Hell. Look at that fence.”

“The security is tight, but we knew to expect that.” They pulled up next to a gate with a guard.

Gavin rolled down the window and announced, “Mr. Aidan Castle.”

The guard looked at him. “ID?”

Aidan handed Gavin the false license, and Gavin handed it over to the guard.

The guard studied the picture, then Aidan, and nodded. “Mr. Castle. And your guest?”

“Gavin Shelton. But he doesn’t have a name this weekend. He’s mine.” Aidan tugged back Gavin’s jacket and showed the guard Gavin’s collar. “Tagged and bagged. We’re here for the party.”

A Bentley pulled up behind them. The guard noted their vehicle, checked his list again, and nodded. “Shelton’s on the list. Go on in. Someone will meet you at the door for your bags.” The guard stepped back and released the gate, which rolled back to allow them entry.

Gavin drove them through. “Oh man. This is going to be a long weekend.”

“No, it won’t. I only need just enough time to look through the fucker’s mind and find that book. Then you check the book over, and we’re gone. Mission accomplished.” Aidan sounded excited, the adrenaline junkie no doubt getting off on the danger.

To Gavin’s surprise, he wasn’t as thrilled about being on the mission as he’d thought he’d be. Oh, he loved being with Aidan. That he liked far more than all this intrigue. Truth be told, he’d rather be back in the gym, making sure Ian hadn’t screwed with his spreadsheets, and that stunned him.

“You okay?” Aidan frowned at him.

“Good. Great. Let’s do this.” Gavin parked the car at the front of the mansion, where a valet waited next to two enormous men armed with automatic weapons.

In a low voice, Aidan reminded, “Just remember. I lead. You follow. Keep your head down, and say nothing unless I allow you. And keep your mind open to me, Gavin. I’m going to be with you the whole time. It’ll be okay.”

Gavin felt a measure of safety in Aidan’s words, because Aidan meant them. Suddenly his partner looked as hard and unforgiving as Gavin had always imagined him to be. No longer his lover he couldn’t get enough of, now Aidan reminded him of a Viking gone raiding.

The hard look on Aidan’s face couldn’t be mistaken for anything but dangerous. “Follow my lead,” he sent telepathically.

Gavin didn’t respond except to lower his head as he got out of the car. Aidan exited as well and shut the door behind him.

“Nice digs,” he said to the largest man near him.

“Mr. Castle.” One of the guards nodded for Aidan to prepare for a weapons check. “Standard security.”

“No problem.” Aidan lifted his hands and accepted the thorough pat-down with ease.

“He’s clean.” The guard motioned for Gavin to join them. “You too.”

Gavin waited for Aidan to nod before moving. He stood next to Aidan and put his hands in the air.

The guard gave him the same impersonal search. “They’re good to go.” He nodded to Aidan. “Enjoy your stay, Mr. Castle.”

Aidan tugged Gavin by the arm. “Thanks. I intend to.”

They walked to the front door, where a chatty young man welcomed them and led them through the grand mansion. Hardwood floors gave way to marble tile. Antiques and grand paintings lined the cream-colored walls, while overhead, crystal chandeliers and gilded wall sconces provided a dramatic and rich flair to the home.

“Built back in 1948 for an oil baron,” Chuck, their host, informed them. “Mr. Kerr purchased it a few years ago. It’s his favorite residence.”

Which was what they were counting on. Aidan’s sources had told him the book would be here and not back in Kerr’s New York penthouse. The job hinged on that book being here.

“Beautiful,” Aidan murmured.

Gavin said nothing, following quietly.

“Well, here’s your room. Get settled in. Your bags will be brought shortly. You can freshen up, but feel free to go downstairs at any time. There’s a minimap on the dresser. The party has already started.”

Chuck winked at Gavin, who caught the gesture out of the corner of his eyes. “Oh, he’s cute.”

“I know.” Aidan chuckled.

“Love that mouth. Collagen?” Chuck asked.

“Nope. Just pure sin.” Aidan smiled and pulled Gavin closer by the arm. “My boy only speaks when told, and I’m saving his tongue for more enjoyable pursuits later on.”

Chuck tittered. “Of course, Mr. Castle. We’ll see you downstairs, then.” He turned and opened the door just as another large man stood there holding two bags. “Perfect. Everything you need will be provided for you downstairs. Slaves are to be undressed at all times.”

“No problem.” Aidan nodded at Gavin to strip.

Gavin hadn’t realized they’d start right away, but he didn’t falter. He kept his gaze down as he removed his jacket and shirt, then started on his pants.

Chuck left while the large man put their bags on the bed. He lingered, his stare heavy on Gavin.

“Pretty, isn’t he?” Aidan said. He moved close and pinched Gavin’s nipple. “And sensitive.”

The guard chuckled. “Welcome to the fun, Mr. Castle. Mr. Kerr is looking forward to meeting you.” He left without closing the door behind him.

“All of it, boy. I want to see that pretty cock.” “We’re likely being monitored. Don’t let down your guard.”

“I won’t.” “Yes, Sir.” Hell. This was going to be a long two days.

When Aidan grinned and fished a set of clamps and a cock ring from his bag, Gavin inwardly groaned. His entire body flushed with embarrassment as he finished stripping and waited while Aidan put the clamps and cock ring on him.

“What a pretty pink you are,” Aidan murmured as he stroked Gavin’s cock.

As usual, Gavin grew stiff from just a whiff of the man. The feel of Aidan’s large hand around him, despite or perhaps because of the thought of being seen by others, enhanced his already large erection.

Aidan took off his jacket and shirt and donned a leather vest to go with his leather pants. After they both used the bathroom and freshened up following their long trip, Aidan stood and studied Gavin.

“Hmm. I think you’re missing something important.” He chuckled and fished in his bag. He withdrew something he hadn’t mentioned he’d be bringing. A chain leash.

“I am not a dog.”

“You’re whatever the fuck I say you are, boy. Remember that.”

Gavin took a deep breath and accepted the twist of excitement and fear as Aidan approached. “Yes, Sir.”

“Damn straight.” Aidan fitted the chain to the loop on Gavin’s collar. “Damn, you look good.”

This was definitely the weekend from hell.

Chapter Eight

Aidan kept his eye and hand on Gavin’s leash. As he’d expected, they weren’t the only Dom and sub in the dungeon, though they were the tamest. And as anticipated, Kerr couldn’t take his lecherous gaze from Gavin’s fine cock.

“My, what a large boy.”

The man’s fingers itched to hold that pretty shaft, still tight and hard thanks to Aidan’s petting and Gavin’s cock ring. Aidan played his part, pretending to like showing off his sub to the others in the room. Introductions had been made. He recognized a few names among the scum sitting around. Most had men with them, but a few had women attached to chains, much like Gavin’s.

Personally, Aidan liked the sight of Gavin in his grip. The collar was hot all by itself, but the leash added to that primitive sense of ownership Aidan had been feeling since Jack had first assigned Gavin to him.

Gavin played his part well. He looked adorable and innocent around so many predators. His smooth skin, marred only by the bruises on his ass, gleamed with good health. His lips were rosy, and his hands by his sides remained loose, signaling trust in his Master.

“What does he do?” Kerr asked.

As if Gavin were a trick pony. “He’s a good little cocksucker. He excels with bondage, and he’s a wonder to watch when he comes. Lots of spunk in this one.”

Kerr licked his lips while he ignored his own slaves. Three of them sat around him, naked and scarred. All looked glassy-eyed, as if they’d been drugged. They’d been pleasuring various people in the dungeon while Kerr circulated.

Now that the man had found Aidan, he seemed in no hurry to move on.

“So you’re the businessman I’ve heard so much about,” Kerr drawled, his accent hard to place.

“Maybe.” Aidan gave Kerr a cool glance. He had to work hard to get through Kerr’s shields, but he managed. The bastard wanted Gavin—no surprise. He also liked what he saw in Aidan. That whole comparison to Vikings thing worked in Aidan’s favor, because Kerr had a thing for big blond men. Someone named Samson kept circulating through Kerr’s mind. Oh, right, Samson Ruelle, Kerr’s right-hand man.

The crime lord was smaller than Aidan had thought he’d be, but he resonated with a toughness that suggested their mission wouldn’t be as easy as he’d hoped. Flashes of the book didn’t appear anywhere near the lascivious needs of their host. Aidan would have to look for it, moving things around in Carl’s brain. That would take time and concentration he couldn’t spare, not here surrounded by so many untrustworthy souls. And not when he had Gavin to protect.

He’d have to bide his time until he could get Kerr alone.

“So you control western Canada and the waters. I could use a man like you for support.”

“And I could use a powerful connection like yours to get things into the country easier.” Aidan nodded. “I like your sense of style.”

Kerr grinned. He was a handsome man empowered with his own sense of infallibility. Half the things Aidan could see in his mind made him want to retch. Killing and hurting others was a huge turn-on for Kerr. Sadism ran rampant through his tastes, and the things he wanted to do to Gavin… Aidan seriously considered killing him after they retrieved the book. He’d been toying with Ian’s idea of getting rid of Kerr, but after seeing what the man did for pleasure, Aidan knew ridding the world of this piece of shit would be doing society a favor.

“And I like your sense of style as well.” Kerr smiled at Aidan, lingering over the leather vest that exposed his chest and the tight black pants that didn’t allow room to hide much. “Tyler,” he said to the large, quiet man who remained close but not too close. “Fetch Samson, would you?”

Tyler nodded and left.

“Please, Aidan, have a seat.” Kerr sat on a leather sofa and waited for Aidan to sit with him.

Aidan joined him and urged Gavin to sit on his knees on the floor between Aidan’s splayed legs. “Good boy.”

Gavin remained passive, and his thoughts were quiet, for which Aidan was thankful. Keeping his concentration on Kerr was hard enough, made even more difficult by his current position. On the couch against the far wall, they could see most of the activities going on around them. It was a sexual free-for-all while men masturbated their masters, naughty boys were whipped until they bled, and several others engaged in oral sex while they talked, as if getting a shoe shine during business hours. Condoms, lube, and dildos lay on every table, provided for everyone’s amusement. What a considerate host.

“Eroticism at its best, hmm?” Kerr palmed one of his slaves’ heads. “Jimmy, I want you to suck off your playmate while Billy fucks you.”

Aidan and Kerr watched while his slaves played with each other, fucking and sucking being a favorite pastime in Kerr’s underground dungeon. A shriek interrupted them, and Aidan glanced to his right to see a heavily muscled, masked man, wearing only a pair of pants, use a whip to bloody a man tied to a freestanding St. Andrew’s cross. Next to them another guy smacked a young man over a spanking bench.

“I have plenty of games we can play.” Kerr watched as his sexual slaves climbed toward orgasm. But they didn’t come, and he didn’t let them.

Aidan, for all his fascination with voyeurism and oral sex, had a hard time remaining unaffected by the blatant hedonism surrounding them. Yet he didn’t find Kerr sexually exciting in the least. His boys looked tired and almost scared, and Aidan felt a surprising empathy for them.

“Ah, there’s Samson. Okay, boys, come.”

As they made a mess over themselves, a giant of a man, who surprisingly reminded Aidan of himself, approached. He had blond hair and blue eyes that missed nothing. And like Kerr, his thoughts were contained.

“Samson, this is Aidan Castle, our friend with Canadian ties. Aidan, my number one adviser, Samson Ruelle.”

Samson nodded, and Aidan caught a flare of interest.

“Samson. A pleasure.”

Samson looked down at Gavin. “Pretty pet you have there, Mr. Castle.”

“Call me Aidan.” Aidan gave him a pleasant smile. “I’m impressed with everything your boss has accomplished over the years. I’m just happy to be invited.”

Kerr considered him over steepled fingers. “Funny we haven’t met before now.”

Aidan didn’t need to be a mind reader to sense Kerr’s subtle suspicion. “I’ve kept a low profile while many of my competitors have been busted. You probably heard about the large smuggling ring that went down a month ago. Fucking DEA in upper Washington blew up a lot of good business.”

Kerr nodded. “Yes. I lost a few sources, thanks to meddling cops. I hadn’t heard of your involvement in the matter, though.”

“Exactly.” Aidan waited.

“But your exploits speak for themselves. The money you wired is good, and the guns you had dropped at my private wharf look to be just what I need.”

Thank God for Jack and his contacts.

Kerr stared at him for a moment. “Meeting new friends is always a treat. So what do you and your slave like to do for fun? Anything we’d care to see? You did seem eager to participate in the party. Or was that just an angle to talk business?”

Aidan knew to answer yes would get his ass thrown out in a heartbeat. Kerr had plenty of resources at his disposal. He picked and chose whom he worked with, and he liked men with common interests. His clear lust made him easy to read, at least, when it came to sex. Kerr expected a show, as did Samson.

Doubt weighed on his and Gavin’s ability to be convincing.

Pay or play time. Samson had taken root next to his boss and wouldn’t be moving anytime soon. The spent submissives by Carl’s feet didn’t receive more than his nod to go away. Kerr’s attention centered on him and Gavin, who thankfully remained mute and ready to obey at the drop of a hat. Perhaps Aidan could prod about the book while Kerr was distracted. The idea had merit.

“My boy and I like to fuck for an audience. He’s particularly good at sucking me off.” The thought of it had Aidan needing release. “What about you, Mr. Kerr?”

“Oh, call me Carl.”

“Carl.” Aidan ran a hand through Gavin’s soft hair. “What are your kinks?”

“I like to watch.” Carl’s wink and look at Gavin told Aidan what the man wanted. “Looks like our friendship is starting off on the right foot.”

Aidan shoved a hard thought into Carl’s mind, searching for Chronicles.

Carl rubbed his forehead.

“Boy, unzip me,” Aidan ordered Gavin and tugged on the collar. He felt Samson’s interest as well, but he kept his focus on Carl. “Gavin, I need to look into his mind for the book. Distract him for me. He wants to watch.”

Gavin timidly turned around, still on his knees, and moved to Aidan’s zipper. “Yes, Sir.” “God, I hope I can do this.” “Thank you, Sir.”

“You can. You like this. Forget about them and focus on me and my pleasure. Make your Master come, baby.”

“What nice manners,” Carl murmured. “Don’t you think, Samson?”

The bruiser nodded, but his hot gaze didn’t stray from Aidan’s face.

Aidan lifted his hips while Gavin pulled down his trousers. The tight fit hadn’t done much to conceal his growing erection, but now he was hard and out for all to see. Hard for Gavin’s clever fingers and talented mouth.

“You’re a big one yourself,” Samson said and licked his lips, his gaze now focused on Aidan’s cock.

“Yeah. I like sex, and I like games. This party is just what I needed.” He tugged on the chain in his fist. “Suck me, boy.”

He spread his legs wider, totally turned on by Gavin and the fact others watched his boy pleasuring him. They saw Gavin as Aidan saw him, the chain wrapped around Aidan’s fist as Gavin put his lips over the head of his cock and sucked.

“What a nice mouth.” Carl sat up and leaned closer, his erection visible. “Samson, some ease.”

Samson blinked, and Aidan caught the notion the bigger man didn’t normally pleasure the boss in that way. Then Samson’s thoughts turned mercenary. He intended to get Carl off while tempting Aidan at the same time. Eventually he’d make his move on Kerr and steal the business. A man as big and tough as Aidan’s planted background suggested was a partner Samson could use.

Aidan had a sudden thought—that’s if our cover holds.

Gavin teased his balls and sucked harder, startling a groan out of him.

“Good boy,” he said, his voice thick. “That’s it. Lick my sac. You hard, boy? You want to come?”

Gavin groaned, his hunger apparent in the hard sucks and mental need pouring through him.

While he struggled not to come, Aidan pushed again at Carl’s barriers. He saw the cracks and vulnerabilities and shoved sections of those mental walls aside. He could make out the spine of an older book, a treasure Carl wanted kept close. It was the means to an end. A way to ensure Stallbridge kept his nose out of Carl’s business as well as tethering the powerful man until Carl could find a way to use and exploit him in the best way possible.

Carl moaned as Samson’s large fist worked in the man’s lap. Aidan made out little of what actually transpired, since Samson’s hand covered most of Carl’s dick, but he could see Carl getting off on the open pleasure.

“That’s good, Samson.” Carl panted, his gaze not on Samson’s hand, but on Gavin’s hollowed cheeks. “I love an orgy. We’ll have to have a free-for-all later tonight. Won’t that be fun?” Carl reached out to stroke Gavin when Aidan intercepted and squeezed his hand tight.

“No one touches what’s mine,” Aidan growled.

Carl groaned. “Yes, that’s good. Squeeze me harder.”

Aidan wasn’t sure if he meant his comment for Aidan or Samson, but no one interfered, and Aidan quickly released him. Then Samson did something that had Carl cry out and throw his head back.

Aidan settled his fingers over the back of Gavin’s head. Fuck if he could think past the arousal rushing through him. Gavin’s hot mouth, Samson’s narrowed gaze, the danger, sex, and pleasure all around…

“Swallow me. That’s good. Oh fuck.” Aidan shot into Gavin’s mouth, covering his boy’s tongue and the back of his throat with a mouthful of seed. As he came, he heard Samson make a mental note to watch more closely next time, when he didn’t have the boss distracting him.

Aidan couldn’t help a shiver as Gavin licked him clean and waited for permission to scoot back.

“Enough,” he said, nearly breathless. “Tuck me back in.”

Gavin released him and put his cock back inside his pants, then zipped him back up.

“Now stand. Show our host how much you liked what you did. Come for him, but don’t look at him. Remember who you belong to.” “You can do this. I can’t take my eyes from you, and neither can Carl. It’s working. I’m positive he has the book here.”

Gavin nodded. “Yes, Sir.” He stood, closed his eyes, and gripped his large cock.

“Seeing you like this is turning me on all over again. Fuck, Gavin, you’re sexy as hell.”

Gavin groaned as he stroked, faster and faster, primed to explode.

“I want to see it,” Carl whispered, seemingly mesmerized. “A big mess all over the floor.”

Gavin grunted and tensed, his thighs tight as he neared his end. With only a small sigh, he released large streams of cum for all to see. His orgasm was massive, and Carl and Samson seemed to be riveted by the sight of it. Gavin had a real thing for exhibitionism. Aidan had thought his boy’s increased arousal yesterday had been due to his attraction for Mike, but apparently he just liked being watched.

A tool Aidan could use, even as he wondered at the hidden depths to his sub. Aidan liked that Gavin had kinks and needs not just any man could satisfy. It would take a special partner to please Gavin. A man like Aidan…

Fuck. Think, you idiot. Remember why you’re here. He grabbed the opportunity to delve deep again and pushed inside Carl’s head. He had the sense of Chronicles, a book giving details about oral sex, tantric loving, and forced seduction. Sex by Johann Stallbridge described in flowing, ridiculously poetic words. The book sat on an ornate desk in a masculine room, near walls of bookcases. Carl’s private study, down several halls behind those large oak-and-walnut double doors framed with golden detail from the—

His information stopped midsentence.

A cell phone buzzed. Carl checked the number and nodded. Death screamed out from Carl’s mind, something related to the phone call. Not good.

Carl stood on shaky feet while Samson assisted him. “I have something to attend to, but I’ll return shortly. Then the three of us can talk business and play some more. Enjoy yourselves while I’m gone.” He walked away with Samson by his side.

Aidan sat there, breathing hard, watching Gavin stroke the remaining cum from his cock. “Damn, you are pretty when you come.”

Gavin just blinked down at him.

“Well, boy, what shall we do now? Perhaps a few spankings, since the bench is open?” “A little more time down here before we go. I need to regroup, but not so it’s obvious. I read him, Gavin. The book is in his study. We find it; then we get the fuck out of here. I have a bad feeling not everyone in this dungeon will survive tonight’s fun, and I don’t want you here for that.” Gavin should only see the good parts of a D/s relationship. Aidan wanted to spare him the ugly side of dominance gone wrong. And hell, just being around half these people made Aidan consider a lobotomy. Sick fuckers, the most depraved having just walked away from the couch.

“Whatever your pleasure, Sir,” Gavin answered in a husky voice.

“You just gave me a heaping of it.” Aidan leaned close and kissed Gavin on the mouth, determined to protect Gavin from harm. They’d get the book and fly. Well, not literally. But if it came down to it, would he risk Gavin’s life for the mission? Or would he sacrifice all he’d built over the years for his blue-eyed, rosy-lipped boy? God help him, he wasn’t sure as he stared into a face becoming more important to him by the minute.

“OH MY GOD. I jacked off in front of other people. In front of that psycho. And I blew you too.”

Gavin had a hard time believing he’d actually done that, yet he couldn’t deny how hard he’d been going down on Aidan, knowing others watched. Here, around so many naked people fucking all over the place, he hadn’t minded his own nudity. But blowing Aidan with an audience? It had been good with Mike the other day, but they’d all participated. He never would have imagined how aroused being center stage would make him. Then again, he’d swallowed Aidan, his gorgeous, golden partner. It wasn’t just about sex with a stranger.

And speaking of hard… “This cock ring fucking hurts. Can you take it off me now?”

“As soon as you’re totally soft. Hard to get them off when you’re still erect. God, what a beautiful cock. You came hard, baby. You liked it, didn’t you?”

“Not because of Kerr and his goon. But it was a turn-on, doing you in front of them. All of them,” he said, looking out at the others watching them with interest. He sighed. “Does that make me a freak?”

“Hell yeah. My freak. I came just as hard. Right into that perfect mouth.” Aidan grinned down at him and stroked his hair. Out loud, he said, “Come, boy. Let’s play a bit.”

They took their time, getting their second wind, and fooled around with a few spankings. Gavin and Aidan watched a man on his knees suck off two men at the same time while they dueled inside his mouth.

An image of Aidan and Mike taking him like that gave Gavin some naughty ideas.

“Yeah. We’ll have to try that at home,” Aidan murmured and jerked his leash. “I know a guy who’d love to get his dick inside your mouth. And I know how much you’ll like it, you little slut.” “You wear my collar well, baby. See how everyone’s looking at you, wishing they owned you?”

Gavin had at first hated the collar and leash, but now it felt too damn good. He liked Aidan having control, and the proof of that lay in the chain lead. He wanted the cock ring off, because his erection had returned, and his engorged shaft made the hurt too good for his peace of mind. He needed to concentrate on their real reason for being here, but good Lord, this full-blown nest of sin was as arousing as hell. He wasn’t sure if he liked knowing Aidan could read how much he liked it.

“Easy, Gavin. I’m not judging. We’re supposed to be into this. You’re doing a hell of a job. Go with it.” Aidan pulled him closer and ordered him to stand with his back to the wall. “Just wait until I take you to Mike’s club. Christ, it’s like sex on crack, totally hot, and totally addicting.”

The notion Aidan wanted to take Gavin anywhere after the mission ended eased something inside him, even as his arousal increased.

A slender man with his companion crawling behind him stopped in front of them. The man in charge wore a brief black jockstrap. His slave was naked save for the rope tied around his throat, knotted to the length in his Master’s hand. “I noticed your play with Carl earlier. I’m John. I like your pretty slave. I’d like to see him come up close. May I?” John nodded to his companion, now kneeling by his side.

“Hands only.” Aidan crossed his arms over his chest.

“Certainly. Slave, jack him off.” John handed his slave a small vial.

“Yes, Sir.” The slave oiled up his hand and masturbated Gavin without pause. As if it were natural to publicly jerk off in front of anyone who wandered by. While Aidan and John made small talk, discussing business and arms dealings, Gavin remained aware of everything and everyone around him.

God. This guy was good. Slow and easy, his grip firm.

“My slave is new. Tight. I bought him from a friend of mine who caters to virgin ass,” he heard John say.

“Nice.” Aidan nodded. “Mine is still in training too. Found him at a club in Portland.”

They watched for a few moments, and Gavin felt himself begin to falter. His balls grew tight; his cock was aching. The cock ring restricted enough blood flow that he looked enormous and flushed.

“Come when you can’t hold back anymore,” Aidan ordered. “For John’s pleasure. And mine.”

John excused himself from Aidan and moved behind his slave. He propped the talented man up on his hands and knees. After releasing a greased hard-on from the leather jock holding him fast, he rammed himself inside his slave’s ass, fucking while watching Gavin with greedy eyes.

Gavin moaned in ecstasy, his orgasm perilously close. The slave’s fist moved faster, but it was Aidan’s hot gaze that nearly brought Gavin to his knees.

Aidan growled, “I said I want to see you come, boy. Spurt hard. Let’s see that hot load.”

Gavin cried out as he came, shocked when the slave moved in and sucked him, swallowing much of his cum while he laved him with a hot tongue.

John jerked him back just as Aidan readied to do the same. Aidan said something in a low voice, which had John nodding. He continued to fuck and said, “I’ll take care of it.”

Aidan didn’t respond. He dragged Gavin out of the dungeon and down the hallway. Once away from the masses, Aidan stopped him and removed the cock ring. He tossed it to the floor. “Let’s get you clean. I don’t like the thought of that fucker’s mouth on what’s mine.”

He didn’t sound angry, but Gavin thought he detected fury beneath the calm.

Nut that he was, it excited him. Aidan was acting a lot more territorial than Gavin might have thought he would. But why? He didn’t need to. He’d already established the appearance of ownership. So why the macho display in a hallway away from the others? Unless Aidan knew of some hidden cameras and wanted to add another layer to their cover.

Gavin obeyed, docile, as Aidan led him back up the stairs and past several staff toward their room. Once inside, Gavin waited in place while Aidan ran the shower.

To his surprise, Aidan returned, stripped down to nothing.

“Stay,” Aidan commanded.

As if Gavin were a dog. Gavin frowned but said nothing, aware of a potential audience.

Aidan removed the leash but not the collar. He pushed Gavin toward the bathroom and the shower. They both stepped inside the glass-walled stall.

While Gavin let the hot water rush over him, Aidan’s soapy hands ran over his body. His Master washed every part of him clean, especially his cock.

But before Gavin could return the favor, he found himself pushed face-first against the wall, his hips pulled back and his feet spread apart.

“Don’t move,” Aidan growled.

A glance over his shoulder showed Aidan smearing something on his cock. The water would have washed it away if Aidan hadn’t moved the showerhead. And then Aidan was there, in Gavin’s ass, shoving himself deep.

“Need to fuck you. Take it, you little slut. Take my cock.”

The rough possession was shocking, because the usually calm Aidan seemed out of control. He pounded into Gavin with ferocity. His large cock stroked and shoved, hammering a painful climax out of Gavin when he’d thought himself too tired to come again.

As he messed the glass wall, he felt Aidan jerk. Rough hands gripped Gavin hard while Aidan came inside him.

“Shit, yeah. Oh man. That’s it. Let me coat you. All inside you, boy. All mine.” Aidan pumped a few more times before stilling. They remained connected for a few moments, the water running in a steady rhythm, only the sounds of their labored breathing contributing to the rhythmic waterfall in the room. Then Aidan pulled out. “Now clean me up. Take care of your Master.”

“Yes, Sir.” Gavin hurried to obey, loving this feeling of belonging. Aidan had staked a claim clearly knowing others might watch. They had no idea if the bathroom was bugged, but the bedroom definitely had a few cameras. Still, Gavin didn’t get the sense Aidan played for an audience. He’d wanted to mark Gavin for himself. Or so Gavin wanted to think.

After he’d cleaned Aidan and again himself, at Aidan’s insistence, Aidan forced him to his knees. “Suck me. I want you to feel me with that mouth. Know me.”

Gavin knelt before his Master and closed his eyes, loving the familiarity of Aidan all around him. Spent, Aidan remained soft. But neither of them seemed to care.

After some time, Aidan started to grow hard again. But he tapped Gavin’s shoulder. “Enough.” He turned off the water. “Stay here.”

Aidan left the shower, grabbed a towel, and returned to dry Gavin off. Then he did the same for himself. “Go lie down on the bed. I have a few things to do. Wait for me.”

Gavin did as ordered, wondering what came next.

Aidan sent, “I have to find that room. We need to leave tonight. I have a bad feeling something’s wrong. That scene with John… He’d been told to delay us. To test us. I don’t like it.”

“Sir?” Gavin flushed but remained passive on the bed, chilled and starting to shake. “I mean, Aidan? Say that again.”

“Cover up. I can feel you’re cold.” Aidan sounded irritated. “Carl paid John to delay us with sex. And there was something that bastard Samson was thinking about before they left, about a coup. The more I think about it, the more I think this party is more than entertainment for Carl. Something’s off. Let’s get the book and get out. Time for evasive maneuvers.”

Gavin trusted Aidan’s instinct, even if he didn’t see anything all that unusual about tonight. Hell, all of it had been surreal. But leaving sounded like a terrific idea. Just as soon as Gavin’s legs could move again. Good Christ, but Aidan had worn him out. “Your call. Just tell me what to do.”

“Stay here, boy. I need to go talk to Mr. Kerr about something. Allow no one inside. No sex for you but what I give you. If I’m not back by midnight, find Mr. Kerr. Is that understood?” Aidan re-dressed in his leather pants and vest. Like before, he wore no underwear, just socks and boots to complete the outfit.

Gavin found that incredibly sexy. Aidan looked so buff and brawny, his biceps and chest huge under that skimpy black vest. He cleared his throat and his mind. “Yes, Sir.” He walked Aidan to the door. “You can bet your sexy ass I’ll come after you if you don’t come back.”

“Lock up behind me. And if I hear one word about you sucking anyone off or letting anyone else touch that ass, I’ll beat the shit out of you. You won’t sit for a week, you little slut.”

“No, Sir.”

“GOOD.” AIDAN STEPPED outside and shut the door behind him, relieved when he heard the door lock. Now to find that fucking book and leave. He kept thinking about the way Samson had looked at him, as if he knew something. And for John to maneuver him like that… He didn’t like it.

It wasn’t impossible to find other psychics outside the PWP. Hell, look at the Cannons. A family of mind benders in Bend, Oregon, of all places. Maybe Samson had read something Aidan hadn’t intended. Or the cover Jack had given them had failed. He hadn’t sensed that Carl was on to them, but Samson could have been. Aidan only knew something felt off, and his instincts had saved him more than once before.

Bad enough he’d nearly lost his mind when that fucking asshole had sucked Gavin’s cock. Playing with him was one thing, but no one used a mouth on Gavin without permission, and especially not some deviant slave with ties to a gangbanger from Detroit.

Cleaning, then fucking Gavin, had cemented his position as Master, as one in control. No more jealousy, no more ridiculous fear for his partner. Gavin had been unnerved about the incident, though he hadn’t thought as much. But Aidan had caught a tendril of Gavin’s unease about that asshole blowing him, and he’d nearly gone ballistic. Stupid, and so unnecessary. Yet he couldn’t help it. He was taking this Dom shit seriously; Gavin belonged to him.

He shot down the hallway like a man possessed, digging into minds as he passed, searching for Carl’s study. Though he’d caught glimpses of it in Carl’s head, every hallway around here looked the same. He wished to hell he didn’t have to be so close to read minds. If something happened to Gavin while he was gone, Aidan wouldn’t know until he returned to his lover’s—partner’s—side. Christ, he had to stop thinking about Gavin in a personal sense. They were on a job. A mission. Success meant everything.

Yet part of him realized it paled next to Gavin being safe and happy. Next to another tomorrow spent with Gavin in his arms.

He grimaced and finally struck pay dirt when he came upon another man currently getting blown against the wall by a guard.

Turning in another direction, Aidan walked away from the wing where the guests were staying and moved toward a corridor guarded on either side by large men with guns.

“Stop, please.” They moved to meet him.

He thought quickly. “I need to speak with Mr. Kerr. It’s urgent.” Aidan lowered his voice and looked around. “There’s an undercover federal agent downstairs. I recognized him from the last time my cousin was busted. We need to fix that. Pronto.”

The guards didn’t blink. One of them quickly radioed Samson to explain the situation. “Yes, Sir. I understand. Yes. But I agree with Mr. Castle. This is urgent.” After a moment, he signed off and turned to Aidan. “Sir, please come with me.”

Time to find that book and leave. Aidan felt a chill pass over him and resolved to hurry. He couldn’t let anything happen to Gavin. He wouldn’t let anything happen. Life without Gavin didn’t bear thinking about.

Chapter Nine

Gavin dressed himself in a pair of loose-fitting lounge pants and paced. He lay down. He sat up. He tried to pass the time by watching TV, but the only thing he could see on the closed-circuit television was the party in the dungeon. A live feed. Oh hell, he’d been broadcast to anyone and everyone who’d wanted to watch.

He should have been embarrassed. Before Aidan, he would have been. Now, whenever he wanted to hide from his needs, he recalled Aidan telling him not to be ashamed. And he was right. Gavin wasn’t hurting anyone. He didn’t ask for others to watch him, but if they did, he enjoyed it. So he had a thing about exhibitionism. And submission. And bondage…

Aidan would shrug it off as no big deal. And that approval forced Gavin to reevaluate his need to please. Why did he care what everyone else thought, as long as he, and the man he was afraid he loved, accepted him?

He had to admit Aidan played a huge part in his wants and needs. He’d had a crush—from a purely physical perspective—on the blond giant for years. Even though he’d thought of Aidan as a dickhead and brutish asshole, he couldn’t deny he liked the look of him. So to find out he’d been wrong about the man under all that muscle turned Gavin inside out.

Aidan liked domination. He read books, fiction and nonfiction, and had an extensive art collection. The image he projected—a large thug with little more on his mind than the job—wasn’t the real man at all.

Though their conversations had been few, they’d been deep. Gavin knew enough about Aidan from what he didn’t say to know what made the man tick. He needed affection; he just didn’t know how to ask for it. Lying on Aidan’s chest while they rested or readied to play, Gavin had felt Aidan stroking him. The almost incessant need for contact told Gavin that Aidan wanted a tight connection, even if he wouldn’t say it out loud.

His obvious possessiveness had to be more about their relationship than the job. It had to.

Gavin continued to think about the impossible dream of a future with Aidan beyond this case while the minutes slipped into an hour. Then two hours. Worried when Aidan still hadn’t returned, he unlocked and opened his door, only to find two men standing outside. With guns.

One of them growled, “Mr. Castle will return shortly. Mr. Kerr suggests that for your own safety, you remain inside.”

Gavin swallowed. “Okay. Thanks.” He quickly closed the door and locked it again. Then he tried to decide what to do. Aidan had mentioned the possibility they’d be separated, and if that happened, to wait it out. Best case, Aidan would get Gavin a message. Either by note or thought, if the shit hit the fan. And so far, Gavin had heard nothing. Worst case, if Gavin went more than four hours without hearing from Aidan, he was supposed to leave Aidan behind and get the hell out of Dodge. He’d pretend to be nothing more than Aidan’s pawn and tough out his stay at the mansion if he couldn’t escape.

Aidan gone wasn’t an option.

Gavin refused to panic. Panic had caused him to be booted out of the program years ago. Aidan depended on him.

He forced himself to sit down and watch the television, thinking he might catch a glimpse of something useful if he stared long enough. At first the sexual acts and lusty lack of inhibition turned him on, but after a while, all the fucking blended together. As he waited for Aidan to return, he realized the case wasn’t what he’d thought it would be.

It came as a shock to understand that he actually preferred sitting in his office at the gym. He’d spent months trying to get back into fieldwork, and now that he’d arrived, he wanted nothing better than the safety of his computer and calculator. And Aidan.

Gavin looked inside himself, honestly considering the notion that what he’d been searching for wasn’t a better job or more exciting career. Sex with Aidan had given him a connection and a confidence he’d been wanting for a long time. But it was more than Aidan. Gavin sat half-naked on a strange bed, in the home of a man with ties to organized crime. Hell, guards with guns stood right outside the room. And he’d just attended his first orgy, where he’d had sex in front of people he didn’t know.

But he wasn’t freaking out. He could handle this.

And now he knew it.

Things would probably get worse tonight before they got better, but Gavin refused to desert his partner. He wouldn’t lose his composure or flake out on the job. For too long he’d doubted himself, and it had robbed him of the pleasure his real work actually afforded.

He liked making the numbers fit. He liked keeping Jack in the black. Getting the business tax breaks and figuring out the bottom line, then stretching it to make ends meet, gave him a satisfaction this field job couldn’t. Because Gavin understood he wasn’t the best man for action. Aidan was.

Being dominated by Aidan was enough of a thrill. Finishing this case would be hard work, but he knew they could do it. Just so long as Aidan returns in one piece. Gavin let the worry wash over him, accepted it, and owned it. He refused to let it rule him. None of this could possibly be scarier than trying to convince Aidan to give their relationship a chance when the mission ended.

Gavin sighed. He still hadn’t found the right way to broach the subject. Aidan would obviously deny their connection had been anything more than a necessary evil to accomplish the mission. Despite the fact they fit like a lock and key, Aidan would distance himself. Gavin just knew it. But how to make Aidan see them as a couple?

And would any of this matter if Aidan lay nearly dead while Gavin mooned over the big guy? Gavin glanced at the bedside clock and made a decision. He had one more hour before he’d been ordered to leave Aidan behind. And no way he’d do that.

After putting on a shirt and shoes, he opened the door and looked at one of the guards. “Excuse me. But my Master told me if I hadn’t heard from him by eleven, I was supposed to ask for Mr. Kerr.” A small lie, but Gavin didn’t want to wait another second.

The guards looked at each other; then the one Gavin had addressed nodded. “Come with me.”

Gavin kept his head down as he followed the guy around several bends and farther into a nearly empty hallway guarded on either side by large, armed men. The place looked beyond creepy. Dark, sterile, and deserted, the hallway could have been the backdrop for an upscale mental ward. A muffled roar and thud sounded out of place in the quiet calm. He moved with the guards closer to the noise and then stopped.

“Go in there.” The guard nodded to a large set of double doors. Then he walked away, leaving the entrance to the grand hallway, a good forty feet away, still secured by Carl’s guards.

Gavin took a deep breath, then let it out. Remembering to play his role, he opened the door and entered into a lavish office. The ceilings were a good twenty feet high, with a few chandeliers providing more than adequate lighting. Except they remained lowly lit, ghosting the room with shadows and dark patterns. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases crammed with books dominated the side walls. And behind the large desk at the back of the room sat Carl Kerr, his hands clasped behind his head as he leaned back in an overlarge leather chair.

“Please, come closer, Gavin, and shut the doors behind you.”

Gavin swallowed hard. He hadn’t been introduced by an actual name to Kerr, not that he recalled, although the guard had taken the fake name Aidan had given. Turning, he closed the doors and noticed two grand oil paintings on either side of the entry. On one side a beautiful man with white wings lay bent and broken before a horde of sexually aroused demons. The other painting portrayed much the same, except in that one, the angel grimaced in pain as a well of seed shot from his cock into the open mouth of a fanged creature.

Lovely art, he thought with a touch of hysteria. Then he forced himself to remember Aidan and assumed a mien of subservience. He turned around and nodded to Kerr. The prick looked way too pleased with himself. His shirt was partially open, and what looked like a smear of blood matted his cheek.

Gavin bit his lip, praying that blood didn’t belong to Aidan. “I’m sorry for intruding, Sir,” he said in a low voice. “But my Master told me to look for you if he didn’t return within a few hours.”

“And good boy that you are, you obeyed.”

Since he didn’t seem to be asking a question, Gavin didn’t respond.

Kerr stood and rounded the desk. He approached Gavin on quiet feet, and Gavin noted the man wore no shoes. Odd. Odder still, a part of the bookcase to Gavin’s right suddenly opened, revealing a pair of suspicious dark blue eyes.

“It’s okay, Samson. I have this.”

A grunt, and then the door closed.

Gavin had a terrible feeling Aidan wasn’t far away.

“Tell me, Gavin. What do you know about your Master?”

Gavin swallowed hard, not having to project any nervousness. Carl Kerr made him feel dirty just by standing too near. Apparently the man sensed it, because his smile widened as he drew closer.

“M-my Master is a generous man,” Gavin said quickly. He met Kerr’s gaze and hurried to look away, wanting the man to feel empowered.

“Yes. What else?”

“I—he found me two weeks ago at a bondage club in Portland. A place I was visiting, hoping to find a new Master. My old one moved away.” The cover he and Aidan had practiced on their trip South.

“And?”

“Sir?” Gavin asked.

“What did your Master tell you about himself?”

“That he’s a successful businessman who has to take a lot of trips. So when we do see each other, we need to make the most of our time.” He nodded and gave Kerr a slow smile. “My Master is very good to me. He invited me on this trip because I aced my last history final.”

“Oh?” Kerr moved behind him and ran a hand over Gavin’s shoulder. He squeezed when Gavin flinched, and Gavin froze.

“Sir?” He hated that his voice sounded shrill, but he must have struck the right note, because Kerr smoothed his hand over Gavin’s shoulder and stroked softly down his back. When his hand reached Gavin’s ass, he squeezed. Not hard, but enough to show Kerr was in charge.

“Your Master is a business friend of mine. That’s why I invited him to our little party. You did an excellent job blowing him earlier.”

Gavin flushed. “Thank you, Sir.”

“You’re so polite. So sweet.” Kerr leaned close and nuzzled the side of Gavin’s neck. They stood at the same height, but Kerr had a bit more mass on his frame. Not much, but enough that Gavin might have a hard time subduing him if Kerr practiced any form of martial art with skill. “And I do love a college boy. You’re all so lively and fun.”

“S-sir? Where’s my Master?”

Kerr gripped his ass and rubbed between his cheeks, seeking Gavin’s asshole with hard fingers. “I want inside you, boy. Your Master said you’re a little slut. I want to see my dick in that ass and that mouth. What do you say?”

A hard cry that sounded a lot like it came from Aidan pierced the sudden silence.

“Is that my Master?”

“Do you expect me to believe you’re that innocent? That you aren’t part of Aidan’s plan to steal from me?”

Gavin frowned and pulled away, surprised Kerr let him. He did his best to assume an innocent expression. “Sir? My Master would never steal from you. He brought me to pleasure him, so that I might pleasure you as well. He told me this weekend was important, that you’re a very rich man with business ties that can help him. He wanted nothing to hurt his chances to do business with you. You’re too powerful to alienate. That’s exactly what he told me.”

Kerr didn’t blink. “Your eyes don’t lie. And those ripe lips are begging me to believe.” He sighed. “Let’s ask your Master what he thinks I should do.”

Yanking him by the arm, Kerr pulled Gavin with him to the bookcase. He tapped a book, and the door hissed open. Kerr opened it fully, and they stepped through into a nasty chamber full of whips, chains, and sharp objects meant to inflict pain. The walls were bare and spotted with torn, faded wallpaper, the floors made of cold stone.

Aidan stood against a wall, like a human T. His arms were outstretched, his wrists manacled to the wall. He wore only his leather pants, and welts and gouges turned his chest into a bloody canvas. Before him stood Samson and Tyler, both holding weapons. In Tyler’s hand, a studded club matched the marks on Aidan’s left side. Samson fondled a large knife with care, adding another cut along Aidan’s ribs while Gavin watched in horror as the blood dripped down his side.

“We’re engaging in a little blood play, aren’t we, Aidan?” Kerr dragged Gavin by that damn loop in his collar all the way into the room and shut the door behind him. Where an opening had been, now a blank wall remained. Only a faint line showed where the door would open, and if Gavin hadn’t walked through it, he wouldn’t have known where to look.

All around him, bright spotlights highlighted the harsh reality of a torture chamber. Stone floors, textured walls, and marbled tables couldn’t disguise the purpose for the many objects taking up space in the various armoires placed around the room. Floggers, whips, spears, canes. Metal teeth and chains. Dildos of many sizes, gags, and leathers promised pain in a variety of ways.

What the hell had happened in the three hours Aidan had been gone? Even the fact that Aidan remained partially clothed didn’t lessen Gavin’s upset.

Aidan snarled, “Fuck you, Kerr. I told you before, and I’ll tell you again. I don’t know what the hell this is supposed to prove, but I have no idea what you’re talking about. Of course I know who Owen Stallbridge is. He was on the cover of Money Now and five other newspapers this month. He’s a millionaire, in the public eye, and he’s everywhere in the Northwest. But I’m not working for him.” Aidan managed a snort. “If I was, I sure the hell wouldn’t be here with you. And I would have admitted it long before now. My ribs fucking hurt.” He glared at Samson through a swollen eye.

“Maybe, maybe not. I think you like it when I hurt you,” Samson said in a low voice. He nodded to the crumpled men near the far wall Gavin hadn’t noticed before. “And you’re a lot more than an independent arms guy. You took those three out like it was nothing.”

“Until you tased me. Asshole.”

Samson chuckled. Tyler stood back, his club at the ready.

“Holy hell. What happened?” Gavin thought as hard as he could.

“Somehow, they found out about me. The phone call Carl took before was some damning info. But they know nothing about you. You have to get the hell out of here and warn Jack. I think Samson might have tracked me back to the gym.”

Gavin shook, not acting at all. “Mr. Kerr? What’s going on?”

“Your Master has been telling lies. He works for a man I’d like to go away—forever.” Kerr smiled through his teeth. “Apparently, my opponent has a few aces in the hole. Did you know Aidan Castle is really Aidan Marshall, a man who claims to be telepathic?”

“What?” Oh shit.

“I never claimed anything at all, Kerr,” Aidan denied through a hiss when Samson grabbed his balls and held tight. “I thought I was here to do some business with you, but after tonight, you can forget it. In fact, you’d better let me out of here right the hell now. And then you can start sweetening any deal we might have made, ’cause no way I’m not after some payback after this shit.” He snorted. “Telepathy? Dickhead, if I could read your mind, I wouldn’t have walked in here with you and been beaten down by your lapdogs.”

Tyler frowned and nudged Samson away. Then he swung the club at Aidan’s thigh. The sharp impact had Gavin flinching back—into Kerr’s arms.

“Shh. It’s okay, Gavin. I’ll protect you from the big bad men.” He laughed. Samson and Tyler snickered. But through it all, Aidan glared at Kerr and didn’t make a sound. Kerr continued, “I can’t figure out if Gavin is part of your plan or an innocent bystander.” He wrapped his arms around Gavin’s stiff body. “What should we do with him?”

Aidan clenched his fists, unable to move because of his restraints. “I don’t give a shit. Keep him. Fuck him. Who cares? I want out of here. Now. And I want a fucker of an apology.”

Gavin blinked, feeling betrayed, though he recognized Aidan was acting. “But, Master—”

“Shut up, you little slut. I saw you eyeing him earlier tonight.” Aidan growled, “You just want someone to coddle you through life. You think I didn’t see you looking for a sugar daddy two weeks ago? If that ass wasn’t so tight and those lips so soft, I would have fucked you and dumped you days ago. Hell, Kerr. You want him? Take him. But get me the fuck down.”

“I thought you wanted the book.” Kerr hugged Gavin tighter.

Though Gavin knew Aidan didn’t mean what he said, a part of him felt the truth like a shocking blow. Gavin did want to be taken care of. He did like others watching him get off.

“The book is in the other room, in the bottom drawer of his desk, hidden. There’s a button under the left side of the middle drawer. You push it to access the bottom drawer. Get it and go. Then warn the team.”

“Okay.” Gavin wanted to ease Aidan’s worry, so he agreed, though he had no intention of leaving without Aidan. But first he’d grab that stupid book. He let some tears fall, worried about Aidan and nervous about Kerr. “Mr. Kerr? I don’t understand any of this.” He cried harder. “I just wanted my Master to love me.”

“It’s okay. Come with me. You can show me how innocent you really are.” Kerr grabbed Gavin’s crotch and rubbed. “Not hard yet. But that’s okay. I’m hard enough for both of us.” He shoved himself against Gavin’s ass, and Gavin more than felt his erection.

“Fucker likes the sight of blood,” Aidan whispered in his mind. “Go, Gavin. I’ll distract these two. You can take Kerr. Then hustle the hell out of here. You need to get to safety. Don’t wait for anything. Just go.”

Gavin let Carl lead him away.

Over his shoulder, Carl ordered, “Don’t kill him yet. You can play with him, though. Soften him up some. Still too much piss and vinegar in our blond spy.”

“No problem, boss.” Samson sounded way too happy about the command.

Gavin walked through to the office again, hating the slaps, pounding, and groans indicating Aidan’s abuse. Kerr left the door open between his office and the other room, no doubt to hear the pain better.

“Now, Gavin. I’m going to sit down, and you’re going to suck me off. Just the way you did your old Master. And if you please me, I’ll treat you like the treasure you are. That beautiful skin, those deep blue eyes.” Kerr sighed and dragged Gavin with him to his large chair…right behind his desk.

He pulled the chair out, sat, and turned it to give Gavin access. Then he spread his legs wide and waited.

Gavin bit his lip. “Please don’t hurt me, Sir.”

“I won’t unless I have to. Take off your clothes.” Kerr studied Gavin through shuttered lids. “I want to see that cock again.”

Gavin knew he had to make his move soon. This was turning into a nightmare. Kerr was a freak of the first order, and his monsters in the other room were having way too much fun beating on Aidan.

As he eased out of his shirt and toed off his shoes, he hesitated at the waistband of his pants. He leaned forward slightly, his hands on his waist. “Sir, can I ask you something?”

Kerr shrugged. “I don’t care. But ease those trousers down, slow.” Gavin nudged one side of his pants down while he readied to spring.

“It’s just, I don’t understand—”

He shot forward and used the flat of his hand to chop Kerr in the throat. While Kerr gagged and grabbed at his neck, Gavin continued to talk and pressed down hard, choking the man. “I don’t know how my Master could have lied to me like that.” He mentioned how they’d met and how special Aidan had made him feel while pushing down on the pressure points in Kerr’s neck.

Once Kerr went limp, Gavin hustled to find the hidden button on the desk Aidan had mentioned. He found it and pressed. A little snick, and then he reached for the bottom drawer on the left-hand side of the desk and opened it. Way in the back, past some hanging files, he felt a piece of wood jutting up. He moved it and accessed a deeper, hidden bottom. He withdrew the book he’d held in his hands just three short weeks ago.

Thank God. He quickly leafed through it, content this was the same volume he’d nearly bought before it had been sold out from under him. Then he looked down at Kerr.

Gavin continued the one-sided conversation, just in case anyone was listening. After unplugging a nearby lamp and using the cord to tie Kerr’s hands together, he shoved his shirt in the man’s mouth, thankful Carl had yet to awake. Unfortunately, he had a pulse. As much as Gavin wanted to kill him for what he’d done to Aidan, Gavin couldn’t in good conscience commit murder.

He heard a low groan, recognized it as Aidan’s, and hustled to the door, the book in hand.

Just as he opened the door wider, he came face-to-face with Tyler.

Shit. “Mr. Tyler? Mr. Kerr fainted. I was coming to get you.” His voice shook. When Tyler moved past him, Gavin turned and slugged him in the head with the book. Tyler dropped the club he’d been holding, and Gavin tossed the book and hurried to grab the club. But Tyler was faster. He fought with Gavin for it and managed a kidney shot that hurt like hell.

As they grappled, the larger, tougher man got the upper hand and rolled over Gavin, pinning Gavin to the floor on his back. Tyler grabbed the club and raised it over his head, the promise of death in his eyes.

Gavin instinctively cried out to Aidan in his mind.

And then to Gavin’s shock, Tyler’s eyes rolled back in his head, and he seized, falling flat onto Gavin’s chest.

With a grunt, Gavin tried to catch his breath and pushed the dead weight from his body. What the hell? He didn’t have time to worry about Tyler, though, not with Aidan still at Samson’s mercy.

Gavin ignored his aches, picked up the book, and raced into the room, where he saw Aidan sagging in his chains, a mass of bloodied bruises. Scared and furious at the scumbag still pounding on his partner, Gavin didn’t think. He reacted. He knocked into Samson hard, shoving the bigger man aside. Before Samson could retaliate, Gavin shot into the air, his energy revving to be let go.

“Holy shit.” Samson stared, wide-eyed, at Gavin floating high above him. The expansive ceiling provided some respite, but Gavin would need to find a way to disarm Samson before he hurt Aidan again.

Then Samson grabbed a smaller knife from the small of his back and waved it. “You’re a real treat, aren’t you, boy?” He laughed, and Gavin wondered how he’d ever thought Samson and Aidan were alike, even physically. “I thought Kerr was off his rocker, but I guess there’s something to Stallbridge sending freaks to do his dirty work. You, I get. But no way in hell is your Master a telepath. Though I’m impressed he’s held out as long as he has. He’ll make a fun fuck toy, that’s for sure.”

Before Gavin could react, Samson threw the knife. Gavin tried to dodge, but the knife lodged in his shoulder, and he fumbled the book. The pain interrupted his concentration, and he dropped like a stone. He hit the stone floor hard, fucking up his knee. But at least the fall managed to dislodge the knife when he rolled.

Samson was on him in a heartbeat. But like Tyler before, he too twitched and fell forward. He didn’t pass out, but he didn’t attack either. It was like he was frozen, staring at something only he could see.

“Hurry. Can’t…hold him…much…longer…” Aidan’s weak summons spurred Gavin to action. An image of keys in Samson’s pants flashed in his mind’s eye, and he followed Aidan’s instructions, fetching the keys and crawling to his partner. But after he’d freed Aidan from his restraints and stood, Gavin encountered yet another problem.

He hobbled like a lame horse, and Aidan didn’t move from the wall.

“Aidan, you’re going to have to help me.” Gavin stumbled over to the book lying on the floor and grabbed it, then returned to Aidan.

“Hard to move. Tie Samson up. Gimme a minute.”

“Shit. You’re slurring.” Gavin knew he’d lost a lot of blood, but it was Aidan’s mind that had taken a hit. Somehow his lover had felled both Tyler and Sampson with mind powers he wasn’t supposed to have. “It’s okay, partner. We’ll work our way out. Somehow.” Gavin wondered what the hell to do now. Guards were still posted outside in the hall, and who knew when Kerr, Samson, or Tyler might revive?

“Samson. Tie him up.”

Gavin nodded and found some duct tape—surprise, surprise—that he used to tie up the creep on the floor. He put a generous amount over Samson’s mouth as well, knowing how much it would hurt to be ripped off.

“Go out this door to the left,” Aidan whispered, his voice hoarse. “There’s another hallway leading to an underground tunnel, one that wasn’t on the blueprints.”

“Aidan?” Gavin touched his shoulder and felt a huge wave of relief when Aidan opened his eyes. “I’m not leaving without you.”

“Stubborn boy. No discipline.” Aidan blew out a shaky breath. “You’ll have to help me. I used up a lot of my reserves already. But I looked into Samson before he started in on me. I know exactly how we’ll get gone.” Aidan grinned, and Gavin joined him, but inside, he wanted to cry.

Chapter Ten

Aidan didn’t recall much about their escape, only that he’d instructed Gavin on where to go when prodded. Somehow Gavin had found them a car and a cell phone, and now, two days later, Aidan lay in Dr. Cannon’s clinic, safe and warm. He felt awash in a dreamy lassitude that made perfect sense with Gavin nearby. Time seemed suspended when his lover neared, love and serenity so close, he could almost touch it. Visions from his past rose to haunt him, but then Gavin would touch him or talk to him, and the bad things vanished.

Unfortunately, someone continued to intrude on his calm. The woman standing in front of him refused to go away, no matter how many times he closed his eyes or turned his head. She just wouldn’t shut up.

“Damn it. You have to eat, you big dunderhead. Gavin will be back in another hour. He’s fine. Relax.”

He grimaced. “Aren’t you supposed to be empathic?” Gazing at the worried redhead with his good eye, he felt a psychic rush of relief settle his nerves. Normally he didn’t like anyone tampering with his psyche, but Kitty sometimes unconsciously employed her empathy to keep the peace. She wanted him at ease.

Kitty frowned. “I feel your pain, literally. So yeah, I’m empathic. Take your meds and eat, idiot. I know you’re worried about Gavin, but—”

He forced a laugh. “I’m not worried about the pencil pusher. From what I hear, he saved the day.” Two days ago, when he’d risen to consciousness the first time, he’d let Jack know everything about their escape—well, everything except how he’d manipulated minds—giving credit where credit was due.

“No. You both did. Gavin told us how, without you, he’d never have gotten the book or escaped. Good work.”

Pleased with her praise, Aidan nevertheless wanted to make sure Gavin took his fair share of recognition for a job well done. “Yeah, well, if Gavin hadn’t come to find me when he did, I’d be a trophy on Kerr’s wall.” Of torture. He shivered inside, recalling how dark the place had been. The menace and evil thoughts pouring through Tyler, Samson, and Carl had been brutal, to say the least.

He glanced up when Jack entered the room. The small clinic, run by Julia Cannon, catered to anyone needing medical attention. Cost was no object. But she also specifically helped out people like him—those with psychic abilities who had certain anomalies regular hospitals would notice. Aidan, though hurt, would heal three times as fast as a normal guy getting sliced and diced. Already his swollen eye had nearly faded, and he’d only been back for forty-eight hours.

To Jack, Aidan asked, “Any word on them yet?”

“No. That story you made up about an undercover agent at the house turned out to actually be true. Feds have been circling Kerr for months. We just happened to be in the right place at the wrong time, I guess. They bagged Tyler Barnes. A real piece of crap, by all accounts. He’s wanted in several states for killing and torturing police officers. Weird fucker—ah, guy.” He amended with a side glance at Kitty.

“My ears are burning. I’m leaving him with you,” she said to Jack. “I have my own problems to deal with.”

Jack frowned. “That guy at the gym bothering you again?”

“What guy?” Aidan asked. Kitty brought out the protector in all of them. Pretty, funny, and genuinely nice, she had a bevy of friends. Yet to Aidan, used to solitude, she always seemed kind of alone. Then again, what the hell did he know?

“It’s not the guy that’s the problem. It’s his sister and her fiancé.” Kitty blew out a breath. “Nothing I can’t handle. It’s not a big deal.”

“Let me know if it is,” Jack ordered. “And that’s not a request.”

Kitty rolled her eyes. Not many fucked with Jack, but she tested him on a regular basis. And she was the only one Jack seemed to tolerate.

“Yes, master.” She winked at Aidan. “Sorry, didn’t mean to bring up any bad memories.”

“Witch.”

She laughed and left him with Jack. Oh joy.

Jack turned and stared down at him, his muscles bursting from his clothes.

“Are you getting bigger?” Aidan hadn’t thought that could be possible.

Jack let out a breath. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“It was our intel that was compromised. No way they should’ve known who you were, but somehow they piggybacked on to that fifty grand we gave you.”

“So they tracked the money to Stallbridge. Now I get it.”

“We’re fixing the problem as we speak.” Jack grimaced, and Aidan was just glad he hadn’t been responsible for the financial mistake. “As far as the others… No word yet on Kerr or Ruelle. They rounded up the other dickheads at the party. Nearly half of them had outstanding warrants.”

“Good.”

“Feds took them away. The others went free, unfortunately. I’m bothered about Kerr and this Samson character. Samson Ruelle doesn’t exist, that we can find.”

“I was afraid of that.”

“Yeah, well, I have a bad feeling you haven’t seen the last of him either. Avery told me to put someone on you.” Avery, the clairvoyant. “Gavin’s your shadow until this is done.”

“Wait. What?” Aidan sat up and groaned when his body protested. Vehemently. “Gavin isn’t the bodyguard type.”

“He saved your ass.”

Aidan swore. “Yeah, okay. He did. But he can’t handle a guy like Samson. Fucker is as big as me. And Samson’s not right in the head. Seriously.”

Jack looked behind him and, seeing no one there, leaned closer to Aidan. “You’re right; he’s not. Avery had a vision of the guy tagging Gavin. Shot him with a tranq. Now would you rather that asshole just met with Gavin alone, or would you like to be around when it goes down?”

Aidan blinked. “Seriously?”

“Yeah. I’m not dicking with you for my health. I want Gavin watched. He’s feeling good that he succeeded, and I want to foster that. I don’t want him to leave the team.”

“Leave?” His voice grew louder, and he didn’t like Jack’s expression. “What’s so fucking funny?”

“Nothing.” Jack sighed. “You people give me a headache, you know that? I meant what I said. Gavin wants a place on this team. He earned it. Hell, he’s had it since we got here. Little shit is a genius with our books. But he wants fieldwork to make him happy?” Jack shrugged. “He’s got it. He’s your new detail.”

“Christ.” Aidan needed to get on the mend, pronto.

“And just to keep things running smoothly, I’ll have Justin and Kyle Cannon keeping an extra eye on things. The Cannons owe me a favor. They can provide some extra security, since most of the rest of the team is tapped. You and Gavin are taking time off to heal. I assume you’ll be out at your place, in that secluded area near the mountains.”

“Yeah.” Aidan knew that look. “Hell. You want us to draw them out. We’re bait.”

Jack didn’t say anything.

“That’s fucked up, Jack. Gavin could get seriously hurt.”

“Oh?”

“Come on. Say what you want, but Gavin’s not like the rest of us. He needs time to grow. He’s not…” How to say it without insulting Gavin. He didn’t want to ruin Gavin’s dream of being a heavy hitter, but honestly, Gavin was soft and sweet. Just the way Aidan liked him.

“I know. But he won’t hear it. He did good with you on that op. So use him now and get him up to speed. If he wants fieldwork, it’s his.”

“I’m telling him the truth.”

“Tell him whatever you want. The feds are all over Kerr, but they’re not as concerned with Samson Ruelle. I am. I want this Ruelle character dealt with. I don’t like threats close to home.” Jack frowned. “I have to get back to the gym. With Kitty distracted and Avery and Nathan on a break, we’re shorthanded.”

“Put Ian to work.” The pained look on Jack’s face made Aidan chuckle. “Yeah, I know. But he can be charming when he wants to be. And he’ll occupy Keegan.” Jack’s other nightmare—a huge-ass Texan with a chip on his shoulder when it came to the boss. The pair seemed to be in a constant struggle to prove who was top dog. Keegan didn’t seem to realize Jack would never bow to anyone. Even Aidan had enough sense to know that.

“Good point.” Jack smiled, and for a moment, the heavy shadows that constantly lingered over him faded away. Good Christ, the man was hot. Not as sexy as Gavin, but still. Then Jack’s lips thinned again. “Now get some rest. Your boy should be back soon.”

Hot or not, only one man meant the world to him. Aidan forced himself to ignore the flush on his face.

“Hell. I’m done sending you guys out on ops. Every time a pair goes out, you come back a couple. Or worse, a threesome.” Jack snorted, no doubt referring to Keegan, James, and Rory, his biggest pains. “So the undercover work. You handled it?”

“Yeah. You want details?” he challenged, more than ready to defend his time with Gavin, especially if his boss thought he could malign Gavin and get away with it.

“Hell no. Collars and whips aren’t my thing. You just take care of your boy, you hear me?”

“It was just an op, Jack. Everything’s back to normal now.”

“Yeah, okay. Well, I have other things to do than pamper your sorry ass. Get up, get dressed, and get the hell out of here.”

Aidan thought he heard his boss say something about him being a dumb shit as he left the room.

Then Dr. Cannon walked in. “Aidan, why are you almost out of bed?”

Busted. “Ah, sorry, Doc. I have orders to go. I really can’t stay here.”

Gavin entered, looking fresh and innocent. He had a fading bruise on his left cheek, but other than that, he appeared fine.

Dr. Cannon shook her head. “You people are great for business. You come, I fix you up, and you leave. Bam. Then you’re back again.”

“You’re leaving?” Gavin scowled. “He’s not healed yet. Look at him.”

Aidan felt underdressed in his pajama pants. God, he wanted to get home and into his own bed.

“No, he’s not.” Dr. Cannon shut the door. She was an older woman in her fifties, beautiful, with a grace and dedication to her profession that did her proud. But a look at her eyes told Aidan the underlying truth. The woman had power, a lot of it.

He felt itchy, ready to leave. “It’s okay, Doc. Gavin’s going to watch out for me while I heal. Jack’s orders,” he said to Gavin.

He tried to ignore his pleasure when Gavin brightened.

Gavin nodded. “I passed him on the way. I’ll make sure he gets rest and fluids, Dr. Cannon.”

“Only the good kind,” Aidan sent him, attaching an image of Gavin’s cock in his mouth.

“Cut it out.”

“Okay, you two. Stop talking. I need to concentrate.”

How the doctor could know they communicated telepathically was a mystery, but Aidan had a bigger problem to worry about. He didn’t like her getting so intense on him. “Really, Doc. I’m good.”

“Shut up, Aidan. Let her heal you.”

And then it was too late. Doctor Cannon put her hands over his chest and pushed. Not with her hands, but with her mind. Energy splintered through his rib cage, where most of the damage had been done.

Aidan sucked in a breath as pure fire washed over his wounds. “Fuck.”

“Hold on. Just a little more,” she said, breathless, her eyes closed.

Gavin hovered protectively, but he was no more than a blur as more heat traveled down Aidan’s side to his leg, where that asshole Tyler had belted him.

Aidan groaned as the pain slowly leached away. “M-much better.”

“Wow. That was incredible,” Gavin said excitedly. “His bruises and cuts healed while I watched. That’s amazing.”

“And draining.” Doctor Cannon straightened and cracked her back. “But worth it. You’ll be just about healed all the way in a few days, Aidan. You’ll have some tenderness in your ribs, but the breaks and infection that started are gone. No rough stuff for at least a week. I mean it.”

Aidan was impressed with her mean voice. “No problem. I owe you, Doc.”

“No. Your boss paid us in full. I like that man. He’s sweet.”

Aidan and Gavin just looked at each other; then Aidan turned back to her. “Uh, are you talking about Jack? Jack Keiser?”

“Of course.” She beamed and patted him on the cheek. “Now you and Gavin can recuperate. And Gavin, remember what I said when we talked earlier. Don’t let him overdo.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She looked back at Aidan. “And if my boys are a problem, you let me know.” She left the room, humming under her breath.

“Her boys?”

Aidan eased his way out of bed and stood without pain. “Amazing.”

“Ahem. Her boys?” Gavin asked again.

“Oh. Jack is using Justin and Kyle Cannon as added security at my place.”

“Why?” Gavin looked so cute in his jeans and flannel shirt. Like a young academic ready to go back to school. Hell, he even had reading glasses tucked into his front shirt pocket.

“Get me my clothes, would you?” Aidan stepped out of his pajama pants and took the sweats from Gavin. He slowly put them on while explaining what Jack had just told him.

Gavin frowned. “So we’re basically bait for Samson.”

“Seems like.”

“Great.” Gavin looked unhappy. “He had a weird way of looking at you, Aidan. It wasn’t me he wanted. It was you.”

“Good to know.” Aidan still felt sore, but the majority of his pain no longer existed. “That woman is a miracle.” He glanced at Gavin. “You look fine. No other bruises?” He looked pointedly at Gavin’s cheek.

“None. I had an issue with my midsection, but she lifted it. I’m not sore anywhere.”

“Nowhere at all?” Aidan pointedly looked at his ass.

Gavin flushed, and Aidan wanted badly to kiss him.

So he didn’t. Jack could think all he wanted, but the mission was basically over. The client had the book. The bad guys had—mostly—been taken care of. There was no reason for Aidan and Gavin to play more sexual games. So they’d hang out, and Aidan would watch Gavin’s back. A good way to ease back into normalcy. For both of them.

“Aidan?”

“So we’re good.” He cleared his throat and looked for his shoes.

“I’ll do it. You need to baby that abdomen.” Gavin knelt by his feet and put his socks and shoes on. Kneeling before him, subservient yet not.

Aidan couldn’t look away. “So, ah, we’ll be staying at my place. Better security system there, and it’s away from civilians. When Samson makes his move, we’ll be ready. You and me are holing up together. Jack wants this to be our priority.”

Gavin finished tying his shoe and stood. “Okay.”

“No problems with that? I know you want to get right back into the field.”

“The field, right.” Gavin paused. “But even that’s a waiting game. We only have so many cases right now. I think Ian was working on something, and James has been gone for a few days. But that’s it. The gym is still pretty much the majority of our time.”

“True.” But to guys like Aidan, it was all about training. Sure he helped men and women get fit. But he focused more on making sure his body was honed into a weapon, so that his mind could function as it was meant to. The harder his muscles strained, the easier it was for him to control his telepathy. And that other part of him, the darkness that had seeped out at the mansion…that he could also contain with enough discipline.

“Let’s go,” Gavin said, waiting.

Aidan wanted to lean on him and didn’t. He shook his head when Gavin offered an arm. “I’m good. Have to get used to being on my feet again.” He’d been in bed for two days, and he didn’t like lazing about, even if he hadn’t been fully functional.

“I’ll just get your things, then,” Gavin said quietly. “I brought my car.”

They left the clinic, and Gavin drove his Outback to his place, where he hurriedly packed a bag. Then they resumed course for Aidan’s home. Once there, Aidan did a thorough check of the house and property. Finding it secure, he reset the house alarms once they were inside. Then he allowed himself to drop.

“I’m hitting the bed. You can put your stuff in the guest room. I’ll talk to you when my brain’s not so fuzzy.” To his relief, Gavin didn’t seem surprised or upset about them not sharing a room. And on that relief came a hint of annoyance. Shouldn’t his boy have felt something about being denied his Master?

“Sounds good.” Gavin smiled. “I made sure you were all stocked up on groceries while you were laid up. I’m just going to watch a movie and have some popcorn. It’s late, and you need rest.”

“Yes, Doctor.” Aidan muttered to himself about undeserving subs as he stomped into the hallway and into his bedroom. Then he slowly stripped off his clothes and slid between the sheets. The last thought he had was of Gavin and how much he missed the little geek lying next to him.

GAVIN LET OUT the breath he’d been holding when Aidan finally drifted off. He’d been waiting outside his room, ready to help in case Aidan needed it. But just seconds after Aidan’s head hit the pillow, he slept. Dr. Cannon had warned him Aidan would need some recovery time, not just for his body, but his mind as well. She had sons who were telepaths, and her healing often left them mentally drained.

Good to know. He peeked in and saw Aidan looking all alone in that big bed.

Well, I called it. The second we’re back in town, he’s relegating me to a platonic partner. All about the job, my ass. Gavin would have been more upset if he hadn’t known what to expect. While Aidan had been in recovery, he’d had a few enlightening conversations with Kitty. Apparently, when Aidan had been in and out of it in the clinic, he’d been frantic to make sure Gavin was okay. And he’d wasted no time in telling Jack just how helpful and terrific Gavin had been.

While Gavin loved being the hero, he knew he’d been only half of a successful team, and he’d explained the situation to Kitty, who’d passed it on to Jack. Stallbridge was ecstatic to have the book back. A big plus for the PowerUp! team. And that happiness had enabled Gavin’s story of what had really happened in Kerr’s home to remain a secret. Kitty knew he hadn’t told the whole truth, but she respected his wishes to keep it under wraps. For now.

Gavin needed to talk to Aidan about that seizure thing he’d done to Tyler and Samson. Both men had recovered, but hell. What a weapon for Aidan to have…and not talk about. Keegan could crush cars with his mind. James could incinerate half the town. Other psychics on their team had life-threatening abilities. Taking apart and controlling a man’s mind definitely counted, but Aidan hadn’t, to Gavin’s knowledge, shared that information with anyone else. So Gavin wouldn’t either.

He left his lover asleep in his bedroom and watched a spy thriller on television. The popcorn tasted like ash on his tongue, so he left the bowl alone. After the movie ended, he wandered Aidan’s home, seeing so many details—and a lack of details—that gave him insight into the man he intended to woo.

No family pictures. Nothing personal. The home could have belonged to anyone who liked martial-arts movies, nature photography, and modern art. Glass sculptures and contemporary prints decorated much of the house. Understated but rich furnishings added to the classy comfort of Aidan’s environment. Gavin knew Aidan had money, and it appeared he poured much of it into his house. He drove a three-year-old SUV, didn’t have a snowmobile, motorcycle, or boat. No man toys, just financial investments and his home.

And the man liked good food. Not chips and dip, but gourmet cheeses and crackers, fine wines, and Angus steak. All organic veggies and fruits, which cost a pretty penny, because Gavin had restocked for Aidan using his own money. He’d simply replaced the stuff Aidan normally ordered from a local grocer.

After looking through the spare room and office for more details on the man’s life, he moved into Aidan’s bedroom and flicked on the lamp on the side table. Aidan slept deeply, so Gavin didn’t worry he’d be found snooping. As he looked around the room, his gaze continued to stray to the bed. It seemed odd to him that he’d only been intimate with Aidan for a few days. Their connection seemed so much deeper.

For example, he knew exactly how pissed off Aidan would be to catch him looking around. He felt a measure of guilt for doing so, then dismissed it. Gavin wanted a future with the big lout. Anything that would give him additional information on the man would be worth the risk.

He drew the line at digging through Aidan’s drawers and opening boxes in the closet, though. But anything left out in plain sight, Gavin considered fair game. He broke his own rule not more than ten minutes later, frustrated and determined to find something personal of Aidan’s.

Smarting over finding nothing, he opened Aidan’s nightstand and saw a few books, some condoms—typical—and behind that, a photograph. Bingo. Gavin pulled it out and studied it. A pretty blonde woman held a baby. Wind blew her long hair, and in the background, he could see the Golden Gate Bridge. The photograph looked old and worn, as though it had been handled a lot. Gavin felt a lump in his throat when he stared at it, seeing the resemblance of the woman’s face in Aidan’s features. Aidan had only spoken of his mother once, when he’d mentioned she’d died before he’d run away from his father.

The woman in the picture looked so happy grinning at the camera, her baby held snugly in her arms. Gavin tucked the photo back where he’d found it and turned to study Aidan once more.

He had to handle Aidan just right. Not too pushy, or Mr. Bossy would shut him down and walk away. But not too giving, or Aidan would take what he wanted and still push Gavin away. Gavin had a head for numbers and probabilities. Statistically speaking, he and Aidan were a match made in heaven. Their sexual chemistry was off the charts, and their personalities meshed. But emotionally, they came from opposite ends of the spectrum. Gavin felt confident expressing love. He knew what he wanted and didn’t want to settle for less. Aidan seemed to have had an unstable childhood. He had commitment issues and didn’t seem to date for more than sexual gratification, from what little Gavin knew of his personal life. And that was a major problem.

Gavin needed to find a way to get Aidan to trust him. Not leaving Aidan behind on the mission was a great start. Now to convince the blond ball breaker to unbend and allow Gavin another peek at his warm, affectionate soul.

Aidan murmured in his sleep, and Gavin grinned, making up his mind. After getting naked, he crept into the bed with Aidan, wanting to moan at how warm the man was. Aidan turned and tensed until Gavin murmured, “It’s just me. It’s okay.”

Then Aidan wrapped an arm around his waist and dragged him back into Aidan’s body, spooning and sighing into the hug. Like his own personal down comforter made of muscle, Gavin thought as he closed his eyes. Tomorrow would be a fight. He knew it. But for tonight, he’d enjoy his lover’s strong arms and be content that no matter what Aidan said, he liked holding Gavin tight. Right next to his heart.

Chapter Eleven

Aidan felt so fucking good. He was holding perfection, a slender, toned body that continued to gyrate against him, rubbing his cock with long, lingering strokes.

“Oh yeah.”

He didn’t hurt anywhere, those aches and pains he’d been dealing with all but gone, except for the one between his legs.

“Hmm. Harder, baby. That’s it, boy. Let me feel you.” He sighed as warm lips closed around his nipple, and he humped into a hard cock and firm belly. He gripped himself and his lover, grinding together, seeking the ultimate high.

Gavin’s mouth turned to his other nipple and teased, nipping and licking. Aidan knew how much Gavin liked it, but he hadn’t considered himself particularly sensitive there. Until Gavin showed him what he’d been missing.

He groaned and arched into that touch, pumping into his own hand, and then Gavin’s sandwiched between them. Feeling his lover’s slick cock against him only weighed down his need to come. And then Gavin shimmied down his body and took Aidan’s shaft deep into his mouth.

“Fuck. I’m going to come, baby. Suck me down. All of it. Oh, yeah,” he groaned as he lost control and released. Gavin sucked harder, swallowing a lot of cum. Good boy that he was, he didn’t stop sucking until Aidan gently nudged him away.

Replete yet wanting Gavin to have the same rush, he pulled Gavin up to straddle his waist, still caught between a dream and reality. He blinked up to see Gavin’s thick cock wet at his slit, his balls tight and ripe. And Aidan wanted a bite.

“Turn around. Face my feet, and bring that sac down to my mouth. Come over me while I suck you.”

“Aidan,” Gavin moaned. He turned around and scooted back, then lowered his balls into Aidan’s waiting mouth. While Aidan sucked and fondled him, Gavin jerked himself off. That big cock on Gavin’s smaller frame was such a shock, especially when he came all over the place. It turned Aidan on, big-time. And though he wanted to watch Gavin lose it, he wanted to feel his lover tense as he spewed. He continued to lick and suck, loving the breathy cries and firming flesh that warned of Gavin’s climax.

And then Gavin cried out when Aidan nicked his balls with his teeth. Hot seed hit Aidan’s belly, energizing him again. Gavin eased up out of his mouth and knelt there, panting. Then he left the bed and returned with a warm washcloth. He cleaned them both up, being careful around Aidan’s fading wounds.

“What a way to wake up,” Aidan said with a smile before he remembered he’d told Gavin to sleep in the other room. They weren’t Master and sub any longer. There was no more mission workup. No reason for them to remain together.

Gavin grinned knowingly. “Before you say it, my stuff is in the other room. Last night you were moaning, so I laid down with you for comfort. But I fell asleep. Sorry.”

Embarrassed he’d made any noise at all, Aidan shrugged away the blame. “I, ah, okay.”

“You seduced me this morning with little effort. I was dreaming, and there was this huge cock rubbing against me. So I turned over, and then this sexy voice was telling me what to do.”

Hell. Aidan had only himself to blame.

“Don’t worry. I don’t mind the sex.” Gavin winked. “It felt great. But I won’t burden you by trying to take up where we left off. The D/s stuff is over. I know that. I just want to help nab Samson and Carl. That’s it. No pressure for relationships and all the emotional nonsense you were afraid I’d hit you with. Okay?”

Aidan didn’t know what to say. Gavin had addressed the issues Aidan feared they’d have to face. He’d said all the right words. But Aidan didn’t like any of them.

“Right. Sure.”

“I’m going to shower first. I’ll be quick.” Gavin waved and left him alone.

Aidan stared down at himself naked, the comforter at his feet, and wondered what the fuck he’d woken up to. Or was he still dreaming?

An hour later, he sat across the kitchen island and watched a peppy Gavin Caldwell munching on his bacon with gusto. “Great coffee, Aidan. I’ll have to try that blend.”

“Yeah.” He sipped his black brew and just stared at his lover.

“So what’s up for today?”

Aidan didn’t know what to do. “A write-up for Jack, I guess.”

“I did it the day after we got back. You were pretty messed up.”

Aidan drank more coffee, wondering how to bring up what he dreaded talking about.

Gavin beat him to it. “Just so you know, I didn’t say anything about what you did to those guys. You know, when they were trying to kill me.”

“Oh?”

“I know you did something to their minds. But you never talked about being able to do that, so I didn’t mention it. I think it’s fair for me to ask you, though. Exactly what did you do?”

“Hell if I know.” He wished he did; then maybe he’d have better luck not doing it again.

Gavin blinked and said nothing. Aidan had been good about staying out of Gavin’s head lately, but he wanted to know what Gavin thought. When he tried to look, to his surprise, he found himself blocked. The little geek had learned something after all.

Gavin grinned. “I felt that. Thank yourself for teaching me that nifty trick.”

“Christ, Gavin. I can’t tell you the last time I heard the word ‘nifty.’ Maybe in a forties flick?”

“Yeah, well, I grew up with my grandfather. He lived with us after my dad died. And he used words like nifty and hell’s bells and golly a lot.” Gavin’s dimple made him seem so much younger than he was. “Get used to it, Blondie.”

“Idiot.” Aidan snorted but couldn’t help his grin. He liked Gavin’s verve. For someone who used to feel bullied, Gavin seemed to have adapted to Aidan pretty quickly. Then again, he’d put his trust in Aidan not too long ago. It was probably still fresh. “Gavin, I have to say something.”

“Speak, freak, and speak freely.”

He frowned. “You’re a lot cuter with your mouth closed.” Or around my cock immediately came to mind. “About what happened in Mendocino. I’m sorry you walked in on that. I should have been there for you, not the other way around.”

“Huh?”

“It’s just, I was supposed to be in charge, and they took me by surprise. Then you had to deal with Kerr and his dickheads while my sorry ass was chained to a fucking wall.”

“It could as easily been my sorry ass.” Gavin shrugged, playing off his part in their rescue with a maturity and ease that surprised him. After all the shit Gavin had taken about screwing up, he should have been rubbing Aidan’s nose in his success.

“But it wasn’t. You saved the day. You didn’t screw up. I did.”

“Actually, Jack screwed up. The bad guys followed the money, because our financial data wasn’t secured the way it should have been. But Jack’s cleaned that up already.”

Aidan stared at him with new respect. “You’re going to make me say it, aren’t you?”

“Say what?”

“I’m sorry for thinking what I did about you. You’re a stand-up guy, Gavin.”

Gavin flushed.

My boy needs praise. Gavin looked damn good getting it. “So I was thinking,” Aidan continued.

“Big mistake.”

He glared. “I was thinking we should continue your self-defense training. You did well against Kerr, but the other two had you by the balls. You just need to know where to hit them hardest.”

“The other two…the ones you took care of for me. Are we ever going to talk about that?”

Aidan sighed. “Yeah. Just not now, okay? Let me drink my coffee and get used to the fact I have time off. All those movies I was going to see and books I wanted to read—now I have time for them. I don’t know what to get to first.”

“You mean, while we wait for a psychotic killer who wants to drill you to show up,” Gavin added drily.

“Yeah. Exactly.”

“Great. I vote for the Shaolin collection you have in your cabinet.”

“I’ve seen those.” Aidan blinked. “But I suppose I could see them again.” Who knew Gavin liked martial-arts flicks?

They started talking entertainment. Movies, television, books, and before Aidan knew it, half the day had passed. They’d watched two movies back-to-back, then critiqued fighting styles. Which got Aidan thinking about a workout.

Gavin shook his head. “No way. Doc Cannon made me promise you wouldn’t be too active for a few days. You need to heal, Aidan. No training.”

Aidan fumed. “You’re not my nursemaid.”

“And I’m not your sub either. So quit bossing me around.”

That took Aidan aback. Had he been pushing Gavin in that way? “Sorry.”

Gavin shrugged. “Um, sure. You’re a domineering kind of guy. I get it. And it’s got to be killing you not to work out. You train every day, don’t you?”

“Yeah.” Even when he’d been working with Gavin before the mission, he’d spent at least a few hours lifting, running on the treadmill, or working on the heavy bag in his basement in the section not dedicated to his dungeon.

“You can’t do any of what you want to do.”

“How do you know what I want to do? You read minds, boy?” Aidan tacked on to tease. He loved watching Gavin’s cheeks turn red. And that thought brought his attention to Gavin’s tight ass.

“I don’t have to read yours to know what you’re thinking about right now. Not with that hard-on staring at me.”

Aidan chuckled. “You’ve gotten pretty good at shielding. What do you think about to hold it firm?” He’d been dying to know what Gavin used as a positive block to mental penetration. He had a feeling it wasn’t his mother.

“My secret. Just like you have secrets.”

Again with the veiled references to Aidan’s secret talent—scrambling people’s brains. “Come on, genius. Why don’t you do something constructive? Help me look over my financial portfolio.”

Gavin opened his mouth and closed it, like a fish out of water. “Oh man, I’d love to.”

* * *

They spent the next few days feeling each other out. There were no repeat performances of that morning in bed. All of Aidan’s hard-ons went untouched by Gavin’s delightful mouth. Gavin, for his part, had a blast with Aidan’s financials and made several recommendations to expand his investment strategy that Aidan found useful. He also proved to be an entertaining houseguest. He cleaned up after himself and generally kept out of Aidan’s way. After warning him just once more to go easy, Gavin agreed to work out with Aidan.

Aidan scaled it down but returned to his fighting stances and practiced strikes. He didn’t lift weights or box, though. Too much strain on his core too soon.

He watched Gavin fight, saw his boy’s—partner’s—weaknesses, and tried to correct them, which wasn’t easy without putting his hands on Gavin. But if he did, Aidan worried he’d fuck the shit out of his little sub.

No matter how many times he told himself that part of his relationship with Gavin had come to an end, his body refused to believe it. When Gavin bent over, when he opened his mouth, when he gripped a bottle in a tight fist, Aidan wanted to fuck him. Any way, anyhow. He had a constant erection that thankfully Gavin ignored.

A few hours after they’d finished training and had showered and dressed, he growled, “I’ll be back,” and left the couch. Gavin didn’t acknowledge him, engrossed in one of the newest spy movies streaming on the television.

Aidan cursed a blue streak under his breath and found his cell phone in his bedroom. He called Avery, skipping Jack altogether.

“Yeah?” Nathan, Avery’s lover, picked up. Damn. Aidan heard laughter and noise behind Nathan.

“I need to talk to Avery.”

“Is it important?”

“Of course it’s important, or I wouldn’t be calling.” Asshole. “Put Avery on. It’s Aidan.”

“Hmm. Aidan who? Have we met?” Nathan asked.

“Don’t be a dick. You know it’s me.” Aidan hated talking to Nathan sometimes. He was such a smart-ass. He heard Avery in the background shout something to Nathan, who shouted something obnoxious back.

“Hold on,” Nathan said, all sweetness and light.

“Jesus, Nathan,” Avery said between laughter. The phone must have dropped and was picked up again, because Aidan heard, “You are such an asshole. Gimme my damn phone.”

“You work too hard. Besides, it’s only Aidan.”

Aidan waited with forced patience for the sane member of the partnership to answer the phone.

“Man.” Avery. Finally. “Hey, Aidan. Sorry. Had to deal with a princess with her panties in a twist.”

Aidan liked Avery. The former US Marine had a no-nonsense attitude and took no prisoners. He was mission essential, and he knew how to get the job done. “You seen anything else on our blond dude? Anything timewise? Sitting around on my ass is killing me. I need to get back in action.”

“Sorry, my friend. But no one said you had to wait forever. Why not come on over to Hallihans for a beer? Bring Gavin and lighten up a little. There’s plenty of backup here, so you can let your hair down. Speaking of which, you ever think of getting it cut? It’s kind of long. Not great when your opponent can grab on and bring you down.”

“Since when the hell do you care about hair? Hell. You’re letting Nathan get to you.”

Avery sighed. “Yeah. He’s such a girl about style. Sorry I mentioned it. Though from a defensive perspective, it makes sense. Why the hell do you think the military gives its grunts buzz cuts?”

“Yeah, sure.” Aidan shook his head. “About the bar, maybe another time. I don’t want—”

“Hold on.” Avery’s tone changed. “Hey. Your guy. He’s a big blond, right?”

Aidan sat up straighter. “Yeah, why?”

“One of Chloe’s dudes is talking about some guy that recently went to his mom’s clinic.” Chloe was in a relationship with a set of sexy twins, Xavier and Josh Cannon.

“Mom’s clinic? We’re talking Doc Cannon, right?”

“Yeah. She wouldn’t tell him anything about you, but that he showed his face is telling. Sounds like Samson Ruelle is in the area, and he doesn’t care who knows.”

“Good.” Aidan’s blood hummed with the need to do violence. “No word about Carl Kerr, though, huh?”

“Nope.”

“Thanks, man.”

“Anytime.” Avery paused. “You know, you don’t have to live like a hermit all the time.”

“What?” Would Samson come straight at them or take his time? Probably feel out the surroundings, figure out where best to attack from.

“I’m just saying. Next to Jack, you’re the most antisocial guy on the team. It helps if you mingle a little, have fun.” He cleared his throat. “And yeah, that’s Nathan’s influence again. But you tell him I said that, and I’ll kick your ass back to DC. Later, Viking.” Avery disconnected.

Aidan stared at the phone as he put it down. He’d never seen himself as antisocial. If anything, he’d kept away because most members on the team didn’t like him. He’d never been the “make friends” type.

“What’s up?” Gavin asked from the bedroom doorway. “You look weird.”

“I just talked to Avery. Seems Samson showed up at Dr. Cannon’s clinic asking about me.”

“So he’s on the way. Good. Then we can get back to normal.”

Before Aidan could stop himself, he blurted, “But what is normal?”

“For me?” Gavin moved farther into the room. “Sitting in my office, making sure Ian doesn’t break the bank. For some stupid reason, Jack put him in charge of purchasing. That’s like putting the crazies in charge of the asylum.”

“I thought you wanted fieldwork.”

“I thought I did. But I don’t.”

“You’ve gotten a lot better with your hand-to-hand training.” Aidan didn’t understand. “You’re not afraid of getting back in, are you?” Maybe the case had lasting psychological effects he hadn’t realized. Something he’d need to fix, because no way did he want Gavin suffering any lasting harm from the op.

“Thanks. You’re actually a good trainer.” Gavin smiled. That grin was so sweet, so full of joy. He seemed unspoiled by life, and that brightness drew Aidan like nothing else. “I think I wanted fieldwork more because I was told no than that I actually liked it.”

“How’s that?”

“Well, when you can’t have something, you want it more, you know? They kicked me out of the program before I could tell if it suited me or not. Dalton should have plugged me right back in. But he was a jerk about it.”

Not in Aidan’s opinion.

“In any case, I proved to myself I could handle it.”

“You did.” Aidan felt a resounding pride in his partner, as if he himself had solved the problem.

“And now that I know I can do it, I can step back and take a good look at what I really want.” The intense look he gave Aidan put butterflies in his stomach.

What the hell was that? He coughed to hide his unaccountable nervousness and asked the tough question. “What do you want?”

“To be part of the team. People look at me differently now. You do.”

“Yeah, I guess.” I look at you like you belong to me, and that’s a problem.

“I think I just needed confidence. You helped with that, and I’m grateful.”

“I don’t want you to be grateful,” Aidan growled.

“Then what do you want?”

“This isn’t about me. We’re talking about you.”

Gavin scowled. “Fine. I want to be the team’s accountant. Back to the way it was. Simple. Except now I’m not the geek who fucked up. I’m the geek who fucked Aidan Marshall.” He crossed his arms over his chest and stared at Aidan with challenge.

“You—what?”

“Yeah, you heard me. Ian’s been telling everyone that I’m ‘the man’ because I managed to top Aidan Marshall. But no one tops you. No one gets to make love to you. Even Mike only comes when you call. You’ve barely allowed me into your little world.” Gavin’s voice gentled. “It’s all on your terms, your way. Why?”

Aidan didn’t understand how this conversation had turned so completely. And where the hell did Gavin get off trying to handle him?

“First of all, what’s with the soft voice? I’m not a scared fucking rabbit ready to bolt.”

“Aren’t you?”

Yes. “No. And second, no one fucks me, because it’s a personal preference. Like your thing for bondage and submission. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.” Not like the many bruises to his back. The stinging, the tearing of young, virgin flesh. All the blood, the pain. And going through it again and again until he just didn’t care anymore…

He didn’t realize he’d been so lost in the memory until Gavin’s arms wrapped around his middle. “It’s okay, Aidan. I just want to understand you. It’s okay.”

“I—You don’t—Fuck.” Aidan tore out of Gavin’s arms and stepped away, needing time to compose himself. He shouldn’t be surprised to go through this again. Samson had brought out familiar fears when he’d tied Aidan up and touched him without permission. The threat of rape got the big guy off, and he’d been toying with Aidan, inflicting small points of pain while getting a boner the size of Texas. Hell, had Gavin not arrived when he had, Aidan didn’t know what might have happened.

And he didn’t want to think about it. But he couldn’t seem to stop.

“Talk to me, Aidan.”

“Fuck off,” he said, wishing he sounded harder and less hoarse. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

“I wouldn’t press, but I know how things can fester.” Gavin quieted. After a moment, he said, “Have you ever talked to anyone about it?”

Aidan felt so angry he wanted to explode. He didn’t want Gavin seeing him like this. Hell, he didn’t want anyone to see him like this. But Gavin had to poke and pry. “You want to know? Do you really want to know why I don’t bottom?” he yelled and turned to face his lover.

“Yes.”

The quiet response irritated him all the more, because he saw compassion in those big blue eyes.

“When I was ten, my father sold me for drug money to some shithead pedophile who raped me, over and over, until I just couldn’t take it anymore. I made his brain explode. I killed the fucker and took off, but not before I told my old man’s pusher a bunch of lies that got him killed. Happy now?”

Aidan wanted to storm off, to leave and not look back. He hated the memories with a passion. He felt those hands on him, that sickeningly sweet smell of Old Spice and body odor clogging his nose. The unwelcome intrusion of a dirty, thick finger, and then more…

“I’m so sorry, Aidan. So sorry.” Gavin had tears in his eyes.

“I don’t want your pity. Get out.” He turned off the emotion, not able to let it in. His brain started bubbling, the need to destroy, to kill, like a drug. He saw Tyler and Samson in his mind’s eye, and he wanted them to burn.

Gavin turned to leave, and Aidan let himself shut down. He let all the rage and the pain and the grief go. The numbness worked, because it allowed him to exist, in control, strong and sure. No doubt or vulnerability. He had to be together and on guard for Samson when the prick returned.

God, he couldn’t wait to kill that asshole. And this time, he’d make sure to draw out the pain. He’d keep his mental energy under wraps while he filleted the guy with his own hunting knife.

Hands circling his waist shocked him. He would have pulled away but Gavin clung to his back like glue.

“Let go.” I don’t want to feel right now. “Fuck, Gavin. Get off.” His voice almost broke.

“No. I’m not leaving you.”

“Not now.” But you will later, because no one stays. “I can read your mind, boy. I know what you want, what you need. And it isn’t me. I’m not a daddy for you. Okay? We fucked, and it’s over. It was a mission, Gavin. That’s it.”

“Okay.” Gavin hugged him tighter.

He felt moisture against his back and sagged. “Christ. Tell me you’re not crying.” He blinked hard to dry his own eyes.

“I’m not crying.” Gavin sniffed.

“Hell.” Aidan didn’t want to move. He liked Gavin’s arms there. And that was the problem. He liked it too much.

“I love you, Aidan.”

He froze.

“I love you, and if you look deep, you’ll see why.”

“Let go. You don’t love me. You love the Dom you think is me.”

“You read minds. You manipulate them. And you nearly killed two guys with that oversize brain of yours. You like to protect me, because I’m smaller than you. And you like fucking me, because I’m good in bed.”

Aidan’s bark of laughter sounded like a sob, so he shut his mouth and clenched his jaw tight to keep from responding.

“I know you, Aidan. I really do. And I love you. I don’t care what some insane, pathetic loser did to you when you were ten. And I’m glad you killed the man who sold you to hell.”

“He was my father.”

“And he should have protected you.”

Aidan hadn’t meant to share telepathically, but Gavin was fucking him up. “You have no idea what I’m really like. I’m an asshole. I don’t know how to love someone. You said it yourself. I’m controlling. It’s my way or else. I don’t know how to love anyone, Gavin. And I don’t know any other way to be.”

“It’s okay. I know how to give you what you need. And you do love me. You just don’t know how to handle it.”

Panicking because Gavin seemed to be rejecting his excuses, Aidan struck fast and hard, needing to get out before Gavin tossed him to the curb. “I don’t love you.” It didn’t get more brutal than that, even if it was a bald-faced lie.

“Yes, you do.” Gavin moved faster than Aidan would have imagined. A swirl of power enveloped them both, and then they were in the air.

Aidan hadn’t prepared for it and felt off balance. Then before he could gather his center, Gavin shifted them in the air and moved higher, toward the vaulted ceiling.

“Shit. Gavin, let go.”

But when he did, everything went wrong. Aidan landed hard on the bed on his belly. And Gavin dropped like a dead weight onto his back.

“Gavin?”

He didn’t move.

A raspy chuckle came from the darkened corner of the room. Samson Ruelle stepped out, a gun in his hand. “Hello, boys. Miss me?”

Chapter Twelve

Samson stared at the pair with glee. The fuckheads outside had been more than obvious. He’d taken them out without expending much effort. Two shots with this gun, and an elephant would go down. He’d handled the one, and Tyler, now out on bail, had handled the other. Of course, it helped that Samson had brought plenty of backup. A dozen men on the payroll now followed him, because he’d taken charge. Kerr had taken one look at Samson and known it was his time to step down.

Samson hadn’t seen him since their escape from the feds a week ago in Mendocino.

Gavin Caldwell, the little twink, was adorable against Aidan’s back. From flight to fright. Terrific stuff.

“Like a fucking daytime drama. Your boyfriend cried for you, big guy. That’s a lot of love.”

Aidan didn’t speak, but his rage was a tangible thing. It made Samson jittery, and so fucking hard. “After all that talk about being in control, I bet it bugged the shit out of you when I had you tied up at my mercy.” He licked his lips, loving the sight of Aidan facedown on that giant bed, his long hair covering his face but not his left eye, which was trained on Samson with a hatred that burned.

“You’re so hot when you’re angry.” Samson walked into the light and aimed the gun at Aidan. “With one shot, I could knock you out. You’d wake up with me inside you, buried in that ass you won’t give to just anyone. Only for your dead daddy’s friends do you put out, huh?” He snickered. He loved this. He could see how much Aidan wanted to kill him, but the warrior on the bed was stuck in Samson’s sights.

“Why don’t you put the gun away and fight me like a real man?”

“Why? So you can do something to my mind again? Yeah, I get it. You’re some kind of mental freak. You did something to me and Ty. And he’s not happy about it, by the way.” Samson shook his head. “He’s out on bail. In fact, he’s outside right now, slitting the throats of the Boy Scouts who should have been watching out for you. Oh, and he’s not alone. I have more men waiting for my signal. They can’t wait to play with your little toy.”

Samson shook his head, having fun for the first time in days. “It wasn’t easy, tracking you down, but Stallbridge is sloppy. The money led right to your precious gym. And Ty couldn’t wait to help me out. It’s just you and me now.” Samson glanced at Gavin and shot him again, on principle.

“I’m going to kill you slow.” Menace dripped from the blond giant’s mouth like venom.

Before he could use any of that weird mental stuff, Samson shot Aidan once, in the thigh. “I’m going to fuck you slow,” he countered. “In a few seconds you’ll feel it. The burn of your muscles slowing, not responding. Then you’ll be paralyzed. Another shot will knock you out. I want you to feel me, though. We’re going to have so much fun, Aidan. Right here, in your own home. Won’t that be special?” He laughed. “I’m not going to kill you. We’re going to fuck for a while. Then you’ll bleed. A lot. And then we’ll go back to my place and play some more. You see, Carl is gone. I’m head of the syndicate now.”

“You ever quit running that mouth?” Aidan didn’t sound scared. Or angry, actually. He sounded bored.

“Tell you what. Want me quiet? Let’s hear some groaning and grunting while I shove inside you. Open your mouth.”

“Fuck off.” Aidan wriggled out from under Gavin.

Impressed he had that much mobility, Samson watched. Then he shrugged and tossed the gun. When was the last time he’d had this much of a challenge? “Why not? It’d be much more fun to take what I want.” He grinned, the thought of forcing Aidan to do what he wanted better than taking a drugged, sluggish ass.

“I thought maybe I could make this slow. But I don’t think I can.”

Perfect. His speech had started to slur. But then Aidan rose to his feet, still steady.

“Come on, sweetheart. Come and get it.” Samson gripped his erection, straining to feel the hot glove of Aidan’s ass all around him. Considering what he’d heard, he knew the big man didn’t let anyone do him. He’d be like a fist, so fucking tight. And he’d scream. A lot. Probably bleed too.

Samson took a step forward. Or he tried to. He couldn’t move.

“Yeah. You’re my puppet now, dickhead. How about you take that gun in your hand. That’s right. Shoot yourself twice. You know where.”

Though the words were hard to understand, and Aidan had to clutch at the bed to stand upright, Samson couldn’t stop himself from picking up the tranq gun and aiming at his own crotch.

Aidan slumped to the floor, but his eyes remained open. He watched as Samson squeezed the trigger, and two darts embedded themselves in his cock.

He screamed in pain, then worry as the drug started to invade his system.

“Not yet. You have more to do. Grab that knife you brought with you. That’s the one.”

Samson dragged the knife out of his jacket pocket, terror making it hard to think.

“Slit your throat.”

He mentally screamed as his knife sank like butter into his own skin. To his shock, he only felt the initial sting. The rest of the cut was painless, probably because he kept his knives super sharp. Coldness settled into his bones, the unfamiliar feel of failure weighing him down.

“No, no. Not yet. You have one more move to make. One final place to rest your knife.”

He stared into Aidan’s eyes, seeing death and hell waiting for him. The cold was worse than anything he’d ever experienced. He tried to scream, but his voice didn’t work. He could only choke and watch as his hand raised the knife, then plunged down once more…

AIDAN WATCHED WITH dark pleasure as Samson stabbed himself in the crotch and twisted the knife, his agony a joy Aidan would have a hard time forgetting in the future. If he had one. Samson had been easy enough to handle. Gavin remained safe, but Tyler and those others would have to be dealt with.

He couldn’t move, but with his mind, Aidan controlled the drug in his blood. He kept his brain clear of fuzziness, allowing his body to sag while his mind remained sharp. Gavin would be unconscious but okay. He hoped. With supreme effort, Aidan turned his head to allow himself to see who came through the door.

He’d noted two darts in Gavin’s shoulder. Aidan only had one in him—probably why he could still function.

He heard a door open and the rush of feet. He readied himself, no longer worried about losing control. The headaches that came after using his power like he had could be bad. After that first time with his abuser when he’d been a child, after scrambling the guy’s brain cells, Aidan had nearly seized to death. He hadn’t been able to handle that much overload.

Older and stronger, Aidan thought he could do it. He hadn’t killed Tyler or Samson at the mansion, after all. And just now he’d used Samson like a puppet. But with so many more threats coming, he would simply let go and hope he had enough juice to protect Gavin. He’d probably die, but what the hell. He could go, knowing he was loved.

Gavin seriously loved him. If that didn’t beat all, he didn’t know what did.

Tyler Barnes entered the bedroom, looking grim.

Aidan centered his power and attacked.

“Fuck. No. No, no, Aidan, it’s me,” Tyler rasped as he went down on his knees and clutched his head. Blood ran from his nose and eyes, but as Aidan watched, he started to change shape.

What the hell?

Avery rushed in behind “Tyler” with Nathan following. He took in the scene and raced to Aidan’s side while Nathan helped Tyler to the floor, trying to pin him in place while he thrashed.

“Aidan. It’s me. Hey, Aidan.”

While he watched, Tyler grew longer, broader, thicker. Until it was no longer Tyler but Jack Keiser splayed on the floor, twitching and groaning. Someone called for help, and Aidan pulled back on his power, astonished and suddenly too tired to do more than groan. Gavin was okay. It was all right to give in to exhaustion.

“Hey, man. You’re good. We’ve got it all under control. You guys are safe,” was the last thing he heard Avery say before he passed out.

* * *

The next thing he knew, he was blinking at a bright-white ceiling and familiar fluorescent lights. The smell of antiseptic hit him.

“I told you to take it easy, didn’t I?” Dr. Cannon sighed. “You men never listen to me. And trust me—I have a bone to pick with my sons about how they handled your security. Don’t worry. I’ll take them to task.”

It took a moment for Aidan to regain clarity, but when he did, he yelled for Gavin. Or tried to. All he managed was a cough.

“Easy.” Dr. Cannon brought him a cup of water. “That was some nasty stuff in those darts. Properties of monkshood and curare but without the deadly consequences, fortunately. Thus you have a paralytic without death. You managed to stave its effects well enough. Gavin is fine, just sleeping.” She nodded, and he turned his head to see Gavin sleeping in a bed on the other side of the room.

Gladdened and almost dizzy with relief to see Gavin okay, he drank the water as well as another cup she handed him. “Thanks. Is Jack okay?”

“He’s fine. I had to do some work with him, though. His brain trauma healed with some fancy footwork, if I do say so myself.” She smiled, but the look she gave him told him she knew he’d been responsible. “That’s some trick you have there. Might want to keep it tight to your chest, though.”

“Huh?”

“Exactly.” She nodded. “You have a few people wanting to see you.” Dr. Cannon had just pushed through the door when Aidan remembered to thank her.

“No problem. But really, Aidan. You’re becoming a repeat customer, and we don’t like to see our patients too much in any given month. Take a vacation.”

“Good idea.”

Before the door could close after her, Avery, Nathan, and Jack entered.

“You look like shit,” he said to Jack, whose left eye was bloodshot. The rest of him looked okay, though he seemed paler than he’d been the last time Aidan had seen him.

“Thanks, brainiac,” Jack said sarcastically. He glanced at Gavin and nodded. “Sleeping like a baby. Figures.”

“Hey. He took a hit.”

“Relax. I’m glad he’s fine. We have an audit coming up in few months. I need him back at work tomorrow.”

“Nice, Jack.” Nathan huffed. “I can’t believe you used the Cannons instead of us. Didn’t I tell you Avery and I were available?”

Jack stared at Nathan until Nathan muttered under his breath and finally left. Avery took a good look at Gavin and nodded. “Just the way I’d seen him. Good.” And by seen, he most likely meant in a vision. Then he followed Nathan out the door.

That left Jack and Aidan.

His boss just stared at him. “Nifty trick you used back there.”

“What’s with the word nifty?”

Jack raised a brow.

“Never mind. But hey, I could say the same. I know our psychic crap is weird, but hell, man, you’re off the charts.” How was it even possible to shift your bones and skin to literally change shape?

“Tell you what, Aidan. You shut your mouth about me, I keep quiet about you. And don’t worry about Avery and Nathan. They saw and know nothing.”

If Jack said it, Aidan trusted he meant it. “Okay. So that’s your thing, huh? Shape-changing?”

“And being a royal pain in the ass, yeah.”

Aidan grinned, and then Jack went and ruined his mood by saying, “That mind thing. You never mentioned you could do that.”

“Because I can’t.” Didn’t want to be able to do it. “I did it once by accident. It just…happened this time.”

Jack glanced at Gavin, still sleeping soundly. “I see.” He rubbed his eyes, and Aidan felt badly that he’d nearly killed the guy. “Look. I really don’t like getting involved in my team’s personal lives. You have no idea how much I hate this, but with Kitty gone, I—”

“Gone? What happened?”

“She’s on a case. And no, I didn’t want her on it. It just happened. Shut up and let me finish. Christ.” Jack swore under his breath before continuing. “Look. It’s no secret you and Gavin click. I’ve seen it since day one, and hell, he’s probably the only guy on the team that can handle your ego.”

“My ego? What about Nathan?”

“He’s taken.”

“Not what I meant,” Aidan growled.

“I’m just saying you and Gavin make a good team. Our CPA thinks I don’t know how he cracked a few secure servers to get his intel.” Jack snorted. “Right. I admit, I’m impressed. He’s a good source to go to for insider info, especially since our other source crashed and burned.”

Aidan didn’t think it was his place, but he wanted to ease Jack into the truth for Gavin’s sake. “I don’t think he likes fieldwork so much.”

“I didn’t think so.”

“Smug doesn’t become you, Jack.”

His boss snorted. “You should talk. Anyway, you and Gavin have some mandatory time off. No question. I don’t want to see either of you until next Wednesday, at which point, numbnuts over there owes me overtime. I can’t believe how fucked up our paperwork is now.”

“It’s Ian.”

“I know.” Jack cursed again. “I need Gavin back. I need you on the floor. And I need you available for missions, and more than just work for Stallbridge. I might have a few independent contracts coming our way.”

“Outstanding.” Aidan liked the thought of real-world operations. But this time, for something more than a stupid book. “So that book we got back. It’s that important?”

A closed look came over Jack’s face. His eyes flashed with something Aidan couldn’t read. “So I’ve heard. Look, I gotta get back. Hurry up and heal, fix your pathetic private life, and I’ll see you Wednesday morning, sharp.”

Jack left without another word.

“My life’s pathetic? He should talk,” Aidan murmured. He glanced at Gavin, so at peace, and sighed. Hell. He loves the unlovable—me. And I think—hell, I know—I love him. Where the hell do we go from here?

GAVIN WOKE UP with a doozy of a headache. He blinked up at the ceiling in Aidan’s bedroom, not sure what the hell had happened. One minute he’d been floating with Aidan in the air, in his arms. He remembered a lot of talk about love, and how Aidan couldn’t feel that particular emotion for anyone. Then Gavin had put his foot in his mouth and told Aidan how he felt.

Stupid, stupid, stupid.

He didn’t know why he thought he had all the answers. Hell, he’d gotten lucky on a case, had a little too much confidence, and suddenly, he knew everything. He groaned, praying Aidan wouldn’t kick him out for either his arrogance or for dropping them both. He still wasn’t sure how he’d gotten down, naked, and into bed.

“Good. You’re awake.”

A glance at the doorway showed Aidan, dressed as usual in jeans and a button-up shirt that accentuated his broad chest. He smiled, a brilliant grin that took Gavin’s breath away.

“Uh, yeah.” Gavin cleared his throat and tried to build a wall, so Aidan wouldn’t know how pathetically in love he was.

“You took two darts, and we weren’t sure how long you’d be out. But Doc Cannon said the drugs weren’t harmful, just put you to sleep.”

“Huh?” Gavin sat up, and the sheets fell to his waist. He felt uncomfortable and vulnerable, especially since Aidan had no problem staring. “I need to piss.”

“Lovely.” Aidan shook his head. “The bathroom is open. Use whatever you need. I’ll wait.”

Gavin shot out of bed and used the facilities. Then he took a long, hot shower, soothing aching muscles he hadn’t known he had. After drying off, he brushed his teeth, feeling like himself again. He didn’t have clothes with him, but he didn’t want to leave wearing only a towel. He was already at a disadvantage when it came to Aidan. Being half-naked wouldn’t help. When he spied Aidan’s dark blue robe, he had his answer.

He exited and found Aidan waiting for him, sitting on the edge of the bed.

Aidan turned at the sound of Gavin’s feet slapping on the hardwood floor. He stared, and the hint of a grin turned him from dark and sexy to beautiful. Gavin swallowed hard. “Can I have some clothes? My bag should be in the other room.”

“No.”

“No, it’s not in the other room? Or no, I can’t have any clothes?” When Aidan just kept staring with that odd smile on his face, Gavin lost his patience. “What the hell is your problem?” He felt a blush creeping across his cheeks and stopped in his tracks.

“You’re hot. You know that?” Aidan laughed when Gavin blushed harder.

“Shut up.”

“And so damn cute.”

Aidan smiled at him again, and Gavin wondered if he’d fallen into another dimension, where the impossible happened on a regular basis. Aidan complimenting him and smiling weren’t normal. Appreciated, but not normal.

“You don’t remember anything, do you?”

“About what? We were in the air, and then nothing.” And I was telling you how much you love me. I’m such a dumb-ass.

Aidan shook his head. “You missed all the fun. Samson Ruelle was here, in the bedroom.”

“You’re kidding.”

“Wish I was. Fucker knocked you out and tried to down me. Then, ah, we kind of got into it. I nailed him just as Jack and the others came barreling in. Samson had a dozen buddies with him surrounding the house, who are now in custody. Samson, unfortunately, didn’t make it.” The flat meanness in Aidan’s eyes spoke volumes.

“Don’t ask me to be sorry about that. Because I’m not.” Gavin clearly remembered how that freakish giant had been all over Aidan. And the abuse Aidan had suffered at his hands still made Gavin want to pound him.

A softening on Aidan’s face warned him to hold his mental shields tight. “You’re not reading me again, are you?”

Aidan coughed. “Ah, no. Not really. I mean, I’m not trying to, but you’re kind of broadcasting. Loudly.”

“Shit.”

Aidan chuckled. “Hearing you curse is too funny. You look so sweet, and then that mouth opens up.”

“Fuck you.”

Aidan laughed harder.

Gavin didn’t know what to make of this man. Aidan seemed so open, so, well, friendly. He watched with longing, wishing he could keep his lover like this all the time.

Aidan tapered off and sighed. “You’re going to make me say it. I know you. You like making me verbalize.”

“Big word, Blondie.”

Aidan shot him the finger. Finally. Some normalcy.

“I remember everything you said to me, and what I said to you.” Aidan’s voice grew deeper. “It’s hard for me to open up. I’ve never shared as much with anyone as I have with you. The others, they don’t know the circumstances around my father. And the other stuff.” The abuse.

“I’m not going to say anything. I’d never tell.”

“I know.” Aidan looked at him with the deepest, brownest eyes, and in them, Gavin thought he saw love. “You didn’t mention my mind-warping abilities, for which I’m thankful. But Jack knows. And Ian hinted a time or two.”

“How does Jack know?” Gavin narrowed his gaze. “You used it to kill Samson, didn’t you?”

“In a way. Actually, I manipulated his mind. I don’t normally do that, as it takes a lot of energy. And frankly, I don’t want anyone looking at me like I’m a total freak.”

Gavin grinned. “Too late.”

“Dick.” But Aidan’s smile removed the bite, because he knew Gavin considered him no such thing. “Look, you can’t tell anyone what I just told you, or what I’m about to tell you. I was sworn to secrecy on this.”

Yet he would share with Gavin? Pleased and making no effort to hide it, Gavin nodded and took a seat next to Aidan on the bed. He leaned forward. “What?”

“Well, when Jack rushed into the room, he looked like Tyler, Kerr’s other right-hand man. I mean, the guy wasn’t in disguise. He was Tyler. I thought he was going to kill you, so I did what I had to do. Except it wasn’t Tyler, as I found out when Jack literally shifted shape right there in front of me.”

“Holy crap. Jack can change his appearance?”

“Apparently.” Aidan let out a breath. “But you can’t mention it.”

“I won’t.” His mind buzzed. “Damn. That’s incredible.” Then something Aidan said penetrated. “Wait. You were afraid Tyler would kill me? What about you?”

Aidan shrugged and glanced away. “I pretty much figured it didn’t matter. I was flaming out, so why not go out with a bang?” He glanced back at Gavin, and to Gavin’s shock, his eyes had filled with tears. “Knowing you loved me made it all worthwhile.”

“Jesus, Aidan.” Gavin moved closer and cupped Aidan’s face in his hands. He wiped away a tear that trickled over that smooth, stubborn cheek. “Don’t cry. I love you. It’s unconditional.” He smiled, knowing how to get to his lover. “I mean, if I can love you when you’re an arrogant dickhead who’s always telling me what to do, then I can pretty much love you all the time, you know?”

Aidan’s snort of laughter was a balm to that part of him that hated seeing Aidan hurt. Gavin knew it would take time before Aidan could come to feel the same for him, but he was a patient man. He could wait.

“When we touch, I read you, especially when you want me to,” Aidan said quietly as he stared into Gavin’s eyes. “I don’t need time, not to tell you how I feel.”

Gavin’s heart raced, and he slowly removed his hands from Aidan’s face. But Aidan caught them and placed them against his heart. “I’m not an easy man. I like things done a certain way, and yeah, I get off on being in charge in bed.”

Gavin could feel Aidan’s nervousness and just stared, amazed Aidan might be going where Gavin desperately wanted him to go.

“I felt so much more for you than I should have, right from the beginning. You deserve more than me. You’re smart, intelligent, handsome, and let’s face it, you’re hung like a horse.”

“I prefer stallion.” Gavin smiled.

Aidan let out a breath, as if annoyed, but Gavin read his amusement. “Thing is, I never meant to let myself fall for you. I kept telling myself it was the case, that we had to trust each other because of the nature of our undercover work. But I feel for you, Gavin. You worked your way inside me, and you won’t go away.” Aidan frowned. “I tried, believe me. And I know it hasn’t been that long since we’ve been together. But I—” He paused, and Gavin waited. No way in hell he’d rush this. “I want you to move in here. I want us to be together. I mean, sleeping, eating, everything. I’m not an easy person to get along with, but I think you and I fit.”

“And?” Gavin tried to tamper his amusement. Aidan looked alarmed, but he wouldn’t release Gavin’s hands against his chest.

“Fuck.”

“I want you to say it.”

“Can’t you hear it?” “I love you, damn it.”

“Out loud, please.” Gavin wanted to jump up and down, exuberant that what he’d always been hoping for was almost his for the taking. “They’re just words, Aidan.”

“Not to me they’re not. Only one person has ever said this to me in my life. And she died a very long time ago.” Aidan’s breath hitched. “I love you.”

“You are absolutely beautiful when you’re scared. Never thought I’d say that.”

Aidan burst out laughing. “You’re such a little shit. No wonder I love you.”

“It gets easier every time you say it. Watch. I love you back, Aidan Marshall.”

Aidan leaned in for a kiss, and Gavin never wanted this moment to end.

When they parted for breath, Aidan added, “There’s just one more thing.”

“Yeah?”

“I want you to do something for me. You don’t have to, but I think it would help.”

“Anything.” And he meant that with his whole heart. “Aidan, I’d do anything for you.”

But holy hell, he’d never imagined what his lover would want him to do. Not in a million years.

Chapter Thirteen

Gavin stared down at the most bitable ass he’d ever seen. Aidan lay naked on his stomach, his legs and arms splayed, his body Gavin’s for the taking. Every one of those glorious muscles was taut, Aidan’s unease obvious.

“We don’t have to do this. I love you no matter what. And I like when you boss me around in bed.”

“Don’t worry. This is kind of a one-shot deal. I think.” Aidan’s voice sounded gravelly. “I just need to know I can handle this. Samson messed me up, Gavin. I haven’t been able to get him out of my head. I mean, I’ve handled plenty of cases dealing with scum, but none of them centered on me the way he did.”

Gavin stroked his back, not liking the way Aidan shivered. This was too soon, especially after Aidan’s confession. He would do his best to get Aidan into therapy, but he knew that would be an uphill battle. But there were things he could do that would ease his partner into relaxing and being at peace.

“I hear you, you know.” Aidan sounded amused. “I’m not that thickheaded.”

“Please. Next to the word ‘brick’ in the dictionary is a picture of your face.”

“Boy, don’t push me.”

Gavin snickered. “That’s rich. Right now, you’re the boy.” Gavin stroked his lover’s back and buttocks, loving the feel of such hard, firm flesh. “But I can’t do what you want. I won’t fuck you, Aidan. It’s not what you need right now. I’m not a mind reader, but I know there’s no fast and hard cure—no pun intended—for getting you over that trauma. I don’t want to add to it. But,” he said quickly to forestall Aidan’s arguments, “there are some things we could do to ease you into relaxing. I love your ass, and I’ve been wanting a taste forever.”

“Yeah?”

Gavin liked the hint of excitement he heard. “Yeah. So you just lay here and let me make you feel good. All for my Master.”

“Damn. You know that gets me hard. Are you wearing the collar?”

“Look.”

Aidan turned his head and saw the black collar he’d put aside for Gavin to wear. Not the one Gavin had used in California, but one Aidan told him he’d been saving for the right man. “You look sexy in it.” Aidan’s gaze moved to Gavin’s thick erection. “So fucking hot.”

He squirmed against the bed, and Gavin reached under him, not surprised to find Aidan huge and hard. “You too.” Gavin leaned down over Aidan’s back. “Now relax. I’m not going to fuck you. I’m going to make love to you with my mouth. Nothing but my tongue, okay?”

Aidan’s muscles relaxed. “You sure? I don’t care if you want to fuck me. Really. I love you.”

Gavin planted kisses on Aidan’s shoulders. “I know. You don’t have to prove it to me. I get it.”

“I won’t be a ball of joy to live with. I’m just warning you.”

Aidan had been telling him the same thing for several minutes, the worry there that Gavin would no doubt leave him soon. That Aidan would offer himself sexually just to keep Gavin around made Gavin hurt for him.

“I don’t need your fucking pity,” Aidan growled. “If that’s all you have to—fuck.”

Gavin’s fingers stroked along Aidan’s crack as he kissed his way down that broad back. “Easy. It’s not pity I’m feeling. God. I need you to feel what I’m feeling. Then I need you to fuck me hard.”

“Sure, baby.” Aidan groaned when Gavin’s mouth found his ass. “Whatever you want.”

“I want you,” Gavin sent him loudly enough to be heard.

“You have me. All of me.” Aidan ground his pelvis against the bed while Gavin nipped his ass, leaving stinging little bites all over that firm body. As he kissed and licked his way between Aidan’s cheeks, he reminded himself to take it slowly. He wanted Aidan to never forget today, and he wanted his lover to see how deeply Gavin felt.

“Tell me if any of it’s too much. I want you to feel so good, Master.”

Aidan liked “Master” even better than “Sir.” And Gavin wanted to do whatever he could to please his selfless partner. Knowing Aidan would have given his life to protect Gavin, just happy to be loved, moved him to be thorough, to show Aidan he deserved every bit of Gavin’s affection.

Gavin kissed him, then pried Aidan’s ass cheeks wider, exposing that pretty little hole. He licked, loving the taste of the man. Soap and musk and Aidan, all wrapped up in one sexy, adorable package.

“Not…adorable…” Aidan moaned as Gavin rimmed him with pleasure. “God, that’s fucking good.”

As Gavin continued to learn his lover, he stroked his tongue deeper, penetrating with short thrusts, careful to keep his mind free of anything but the love and desire he felt for Aidan.

Aidan’s breathy moans and gasps were more frequent while Gavin put more of his tongue inside. He stroked gently, purposefully slow, to build Aidan’s desire.

“I want you. I want to fuck that tight hole. I want to fuck your mouth,” Aidan rasped. “Shit, you’re good.”

Gavin smiled and continued to eat his lover, wanting to make it unforgettable. He ran his hands up and down the insides of Aidan’s thighs while he worked Aidan with his tongue. And when he grazed Aidan’s balls, Aidan shoved forcibly into the bed.

Gavin wasn’t unaffected either. He was so hard, his slit wet. But he felt no urge to fuck Aidan. He hadn’t been lying. He wasn’t a top. He wanted a hard cock inside him, to ride him while he took his own pleasure from the orgasm building in his Master.

“That’s enough,” Aidan growled. “Get over here on your back. I need to love you.”

Not fuck you. Gavin eased up and found himself on his back, his legs spread and Aidan’s mouth over him in seconds.

“Oh, yeah. Master, please.”

Aidan was ravenous. He licked and sucked, devouring Gavin with need. “Come for me baby. Show me how much you love me.”

The orgasm hit Gavin hard, and he cried out as he gave himself to Aidan without thought, instinctively surrendering to his lover. To his love.

Aidan swallowed him, sucking every bit of cum from Gavin’s cock. Then he left Gavin on the bed while he rummaged through his drawer. He found lubrication and smoothed it all over himself.

“You’re huge,” Gavin croaked, staring dazedly at that monster in Aidan’s hand.

“You made me that way.” Aidan finished and wiped the rest of the lube on Gavin’s belly. “Now watch me come inside you.” Aidan tilted Gavin’s hips and eased inside his ass. He moved slowly, watching Gavin’s face while he joined them mind to mind and flesh to flesh. “You’re a part of me, baby. I can’t let you go.”

“Then don’t.” Gavin reached for Aidan and held on to his forearms on either side of him while Aidan rocked in and out of him. “Fill me up, Master. If it pleases you.”

“Oh, it pleases me.” Aidan’s forehead was beaded with sweat. “You’re so good for me, boy. So damn perfect.” Aidan continued to fuck him and leaned down to kiss Gavin. He lingered, thrusting with his tongue every time he pushed with his cock.

Gavin was lost in the ecstasy of his lover, his Master. Being taken, being given all that love and protection, the desire and affection balled inside his heart and refused to leave.

“Gonna come. Gonna fill that ass, my ass,” Aidan groaned and rotated his hips. “I love you, Gavin. You’re mine.”

“Yours.” Gavin’s erection returned as he watched Aidan take him—love him. His blond lover was so beautiful it made him ache, and knowing how much Aidan wanted him, how far he’d been willing to go to prove that, turned him inside out.

“Touch yourself. I want to see you come again.”

“I don’t know if I can…”

Aidan changed his angle of penetration and hit Gavin’s prostate.

“Do it.” Aidan glared down at him, and that dominating tone did the trick.

“Yes, Sir.” He rubbed himself off while Aidan finished fucking him. When Aidan thrust hard one final time and shuddered, Gavin knew he watched, waiting.

“Let me see.” Aidan’s hoarse voice shook him to the core.

“Yes, yes,” Gavin moaned and came, clamping tightly around Aidan.

Aidan sighed. “Fuck, that is so hot. I love watching you come. Squeeze me. Oh yeah.”

They finished and remained joined. “You’re mine now. Only mine, unless I decide to share you,” Aidan murmured. He brushed a hank of hair out of Gavin’s eyes. “I know how much you liked Mike watching. And how much you liked servicing us both.”

“I, uh…” Gavin didn’t know what to say. “Is that okay?”

“Hell, yeah.” Aidan grinned at him. “I told you, I love watching you get off. And you have a few kinks I share.” Aidan’s smile faded. “I always want you to be honest with me. And I swear, I won’t read your mind. I won’t try to, at least.”

“I know.” Gavin reached up and pulled Aidan down for a kiss full of love and tenderness. Belonging. “I have nothing to hide. Well, I’ll have some secrets, of course, because that’s normal in a relationship.”

They both grinned at the word normal.

“Yeah, I get it.” Aidan pinched his nipple and laughed when Gavin crossed his eyes. “Now quit lazing in bed. We need to clean up; then we need to talk about you moving in here with me. Today.”

Gavin missed Aidan the moment he withdrew, but then the idiot yanked him over his shoulder and carried him into the bathroom like a caveman. “Put me down, you bully.”

“Easy, there, sexy. I just didn’t want you making a mess all over my pristine floor. There’s a lot of cum in that ass.” Aidan set Gavin on his feet and smirked.

“Yeah? Well, I figure by the end of the day, there’ll be more in your mouth than in my ass.” Gavin dared.

“Oh, challenge on, boy.”

“Yes, Sir.” Gavin smiled at him. “But we really do need to talk about this move, because no way in hell I’m giving up my couch for that leather crap in your living room.”

“Our living room.” Aidan frowned. “Leather crap? That thing cost three thousand dollars.”

Gavin sighed. “And we need to go over your figures again, because hoss, I can buy and sell you three times over. So when it comes to money matters and home stuff, I think I’m in charge.”

Aidan stopped fiddling with the shower and stared at him, and Gavin wondered if he’d gone too far. They were still new to each other and this whole love bomb. Maybe the reality…

Aidan’s smile was so wide and elated, Gavin wanted to cry at the beauty of it. “Whatever you want. That’s my job, you know. To do what pleases you. You have the power.”

“That goes both ways. What pleases me is loving you.” Gavin blinked hard not to cry.

“It’s okay.” Aidan hugged him tight. “You can shed those tears. I already think you’re a pussy, remember?”

Gavin laughed and socked him on the arm.

“But you’re my pussy.” Aidan kissed him again and winked. “Now get in the shower and clean your Master. Then I’ll cook you one hell of an omelet. That’s if you’re a good boy. I think I have another shot left in me.” He nodded down at the start of another erection. “Yeah, you’re going to get plenty of workouts at home, I can tell.”

Gavin stepped into the shower with Aidan and reached for the soap, content that although living together wouldn’t come without challenges, nothing in life worth having was ever easy. Aidan practically came with a difficult warning. “Sure thing, Sir. Just so long as you know who’s really in charge.”

A charged pause followed before they said at the same time, “You, boy.” “You, Sir.”

“Us, then. I like that. We’re a team, and don’t you ever forget it,” Aidan said before Gavin got busy with the soap. “One thing I’ve gotta know, though. Where did you learn to do that thing with your tongue?”

Gavin smiled and continued to lather. He needed to please his Master.

And then he did.

Content

Flight of Fancy
PowerUp! - 5
by
Marie Harte

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen