Joseph R.G. DeMarco

Disgraced cop Doyle McCann and former undercover cop Kord Verlangen are forced to partner on a cold case which they must solve or lose their jobs. Doyle is gay and out; Kord says he's straight. Both harbor secrets they never want revealed.<br><br>The case, involving a series of gay bashings two years earlier, takes them through the underbelly of Philadelphia's gay nightlife, and Doyle has reason to believe the Mafia may also be involved.<br><br>Following years' old leads is hard enough. But working together proves even more difficult as the sexual tension between Doyle and Kord rises and begins to overwhelm their focus. As they come closer to solving the case, their team is split down the middle, threatening to destroy any chance for them to keep their jobs. What will it take to get them working again and keep them on track?

Family Bashings

Turning back to his bedroom, Doyle wanted a hot shower. Maybe that would help make things more clear.


The hot water streaming over his body did help, but couldn’t take away the sharp sting of Kord’s absence. The night before was still palpable for Doyle. He could feel Kord’s body against his under the water. The taste and smell of the undercover cop lingered in his mind, still making his head spin with desire.


Toweling himself dry, Doyle felt Kord’s hands on him. The man could be surprisingly gentle, affectionate, and attentive when he wanted.


Kord had seemed happy, even content. Then why had he left?


Doyle was determined to find out. He decided that he wouldn’t make a scene, wouldn’t be clingy or demanding. He just wanted to know what had gone wrong.


Only O’Brien and Pulaski were at their desks. The rest of the squad room was empty and quiet


“Anybody see Verlangen this morning?”


Chapter 44