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

“Like always,” Doyle said. “Why don’t you join me?” He had no idea why he said that. He’d been looking forward to being alone, mulling over the case, and bemoaning Kord’s behavior. But this would be better. It had to be.


In response, Mick stood, picked up his coffee cup, and sat at Doyle’s table.


“Thanks,” Mick said, his voice seductive. “I hate eating alone. Which is funny because I do it so much.”


“I know what you mean. I prefer company—especially when it’s someone like you.” Doyle smiled and felt a wisp of hope.


“Well, thank you,” Mick said. “I know it’s all blarney but it’s nice to hear.”


Doyle shrugged. “You tending bar tonight?”


Chapter 49