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

After dinner, the trio took off in Deacon’s car to pick up Karen at her home. Jack went in, returning several minutes later with a very pretty young woman in tow.


“You probably don’t remember me,” Max said, getting out of the car to greet her. “I’m Max.”


“Honestly,” she replied, “I don’t. But Jack has told me all about you so I feel as if I know you.”


Max cocked his head. “Is that a good thing, or bad?”


“Oh boy,” Max replied as they got into the car.


Jack introduced her to Deacon, at which point she said, “You’re the man who’s keeping them safe.”


She shuddered. “Jack told me what’s happening. It’s hard to believe anyone could be that crazy, but I know it happens.” She smiled sweetly at Jack. “Remember that if you decide to break up with me.” Then she kissed his cheek. “Kidding. Kidding.”


“You’d better be,” Jack replied with a grin.


Chapter 29