DeVore lost the love of his life ten years ago, left his seven-figure career with a huge financial firm, and became a recluse. He now indulges a hobby of photography which has become his new vocation. At one of the few social functions he attends, he meets an amazing young man. Can he find new life and new love? The game of hearts is always risky, but what if a part of your first love now lives in another body?<br><br>Tim was a preemie and always frail. Later, an organ transplant was the only thing that could save him. Now grown, he still struggles to break restrictive family ties and find a purpose. It’s a thrill to meet the charismatic DeVore, an idol whose powerful photographs move many. But is this attraction his own, or coming from the stranger’s heart now beating in his chest?

A Game of Hearts

They sat in companionable silence for the short ride back to the hotel. Tim again tipped the driver generously before he turned to see DeVore waited for him at the door. Surprised but pleased, he hastened over, his head beginning to clear with a few breaths of muggy—though cooler—air.


Inside, DeVore halted. “I expect you need to go home and pack. Much as I hate to see a pleasant evening end, I should say goodnight here and send you on your way.”


Tim hesitated, drew a breath, and exhaled slowly. “I-I hope I’m not pushing you into anything you’d really rather not do—taking me home with you and assuming at least partial responsibility for a poorly socialized young misfit…”


Chapter 9