The New Year of 2002 starts off with a literal bang, when Mark Vincent is called to WBIS headquarters and learns the Washington Bureau of Intelligence and Security has been disbanded. He's not happy with the situation, but he's ready to make his own way in the intelligence waters of DC. However, when Trevor Wallace, known as The Boss, requests he accept the CIA's offer of a job, Mark reluctantly agrees. He isn't surprised to find working for the CIA is exactly what he expected, with the Company not allowing him to do his job. Mark lets his resentment be known as he's partnered with one officer after another, with no success. As a result, he's determined to leave the CIA, in spite of his promise to the man whose opinion he valued so highly.<br><br>Quinton Mann is viewed as royalty in the intelligence community. He had a run-in with Mark Vincent a few years before, while Vincent was still senior special agent for the WBIS, and Quinn had developed a healthy respect for him. Now, however, it's his turn to partner with the man considered by the alphabet agencies to be a sociopath.<br><br>Quinn can see what the problem is, and he's aware Vincent might not remain CIA for long. Now, the year is drawing to a close. Will a drink on Christmas Eve change things for both men?

No One Should Be Alone

Paul stood for a moment studying the room’s amenities, then sauntered up to me and curled an arm around my neck. “Very nice, babe. Thanks.”


“You’re welcome.” I ran a palm over the firm curve of his butt. It would be enjoyable to spend the first hours of the New Year with him on such a luxurious bed, especially since Paul refused to accept money for his time; he deserved it.


We’d had an amazing breakfast—Paul had done the ordering, which was why we’d wound up having the Continental breakfast with viennoiserie, and herb and cheese omelets—then finished a third round of sex, and Paul cuddled up against my side.


“What time is it?” he asked drowsily. “Do we have time for more before we have to check out?” He licked a nipple, and I hummed with pleasure—the boy did have a talented mouth.


“Hold that thought, sunshine.” I leaned up on an elbow to peer at the clock on the night table near my side of the bed.


Chapter 4