Twelve years ago, Max Harman survived a vicious attack by his ex-lover Tony. It severed their relationship and landed Tony in prison.<br><br>When Tony’s released from jail, Max’s nephew Jack fears the man may seek revenge on his uncle. Wanting to buy a gun for protection, he visits Deacon Young's shop. Deacon convinces him to bring Max by to do the same. Despite his misgivings, Max gets a gun for security, too.<br><br>When Jack’s fears prove to be correct and Tony starts to stalk Max, Deacon steps in to try to protect him. Can Max's growing interest in Deacon -- and vice versa -- survive Tony's escalating reign of terror?

Protecting Max

During the drive to the restaurant, Max found himself checking the rearview mirror. I’m getting paranoid before I have to. Probably because setting the security reminds me there’s a reason we have it. In less than a week, we’ll find out if we really need it.That thought sent a shiver down his spine.


He pasted a smile on his face as he walked from the parking lot to the restaurant. It became a real one the moment he saw Deacon standing at the entrance, waiting for him. Damn, he looks good. Deacon was also wearing slacks and a button-down shirt—a green one in his case—with his jacket slung over one shoulder.


“You clean up nicely,” Deacon said, as soon as Max was within earshot.


“Thanks. You look pretty good, too.”


Chapter 11