Psychiatrist Haleigh Hugo thinks he’s found the perfect setting for his experimental treatment plan -- an isolated home in the middle of a small lake in the high Sierras. Dr. Hugo’s office mate and life partner, Guy Sanford, is unconvinced that the benefits of the treatment plan outweigh the risks, but soon gives in to the charm and boundless enthusiasm of his lover.<br><br>Dr. Hugo’s subjects are six female patients who have failed to make what he considers significant progress in one-to-one therapy. They all share something in common: grief over the loss of a loved one, a psychological barrier that prevents them from moving on. Hilary Colbert lost her life partner to a serious illness; Jennie Travers no longer trusts her unfaithful husband; Meeda O’Connell’s infant son died in his crib; Vera Field wakes from a coma to learn her father has committed a senseless crime: Sarah/April Preston no longer knows who she is and suffers from a loss of identity; and Emily West has psychic abilities yet longs for a normal human existence.<br><br>The six patients, overseen by Dr. Hugo and Dr. Sanford, descend on Devonshire, a simple mountain home on the lake for a weekend of intense therapy. Yet within the walls of the home lies a terrible and painful secret that haunts anyone who comes near.

Too Long Among the Dead

“Mmm. Too late now. I can’t wait to sink my teeth into that fresh chocolaty dough. I’ll just ask Ms. Lansing if she’d care for—” Hal was almost to the door, his hand on the doorknob, when Guy pulled him back and led him over to the couch.


The Seth Thomas on a small table in the corner ticked away in unison to the muted sounds of Ms. Lansing’s keyboard tapping in reception.


“I thought you’d change your tune.”


“And you’ll tell me?” Guy asked. “I’m starved and practically salivating.”


“Yes, afterwards.” Hal grinned and pushed Guy back on the couch, gently. He unbuckled his lover’s belt. “You’ve been a very naughty boy, haven’t you?”


Guy’s erection began to grow within the confines of the silk fabric of his Pierre Cardin trousers. “Yes. I’ve been very bad indeed.” Then he kicked off his shoes and slid his pants and briefs down around his ankles. “I’ll do almost anything for one of those éclairs.”


Chapter 3