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

Less than ten minutes later, Max’s cell chimed. The officer’s name came up, so Max answered


“Tell me what’s going on,” Officer Stern said—so Max did. When he finished, Stern asked if there was somewhere they could meet, other than the house or the police station.


“Do you know Young’s Gun Emporium?”


“No, but I can find it. I presume the Mr. Young who was with you last night it the owner?”


“He is. I’ll let him know we’re coming.”


“I can be there in half an hour,” Stern said before hanging up.


At soon as Deacon answered the phone, Max said, “We’re on our way over. I did what we should have done this morning and called Officer Stern. He’s meeting us at the shop.”


“All right. Hopefully not in uniform,” Deacon replied.


“I think he’s smart enough to wear civilian clothes.” 9


Chapter 36