George Martin and Mike Foster have been best friends since childhood, but recent events have brought them even closer together: Mike has moved into George’s house now that George’s unfaithful boyfriend has been kicked out. It puts Mike in a pinch, because he’s always loved George -- maybe more than a best friend should.<br><br>George doesn’t suspect Mike’s feelings, being wrapped up in his job as the youngest lieutenant in the Jacksonville sheriff’s office and investigating a series of murders. But it will all come to a head when George is stalked by a psycho and Mike steps in front of a bullet meant for George. George then realizes there’s much more to their relationship than he thought.

Bodies of Work

“That’s good news,” he said, “but I’ve got even better news.”


“Take that little card out of your wallet and call the number, babe. Our test results are back.”


“I’m clean, and there’s no doubt in my mind that you are too.”


He did so, and I took the card from my billfold. I called the number, and a mechanical voice told me to punch in the code that was written on the card. I punched the numbers as requested, and there was a pause. A live voice said, “George Martin?”


“Your tests were negative for all STDs.”


I called Mike and said, “No condoms tonight, babe.”


I plowed back into the paperwork. I even sent out for a sandwich and ate it at my desk while I worked. By the end of the day, I was absolutely certain that I would be caught up by noon on Friday.


Chapter 49