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

Deacon grabbed his hand before Max could pull the knife out, at the same time taking his phone from his pocket. When his call was answered, he said, “I want to report a threat to a friend of mine.” He told the person, who Max was certain was a 911 dispatcher, what had happened, ending with, “Mr. Harman has a restraining order against Mr.…” He glanced at Max, mouthing “Full name?”


“Against Mr. Anthony Coburn,” Deacon told the dispatcher. He nodded, gave them the address, and hung up. “She said it would be a few minutes until patrol officers got here. Let’s wait in the car.”


“I’m not sure I can sit still,” Max replied, leaving the porch to pace restlessly up and down the sidewalk. “How can we prove Tony did that?” He gestured toward the door.


“The officers should have a fingerprint kit with them,” Deacon replied.


Chapter 19