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

“Now, as I was saying—” the officer took a pair of handcuffs from his belt, “—Anthony Coburn, you are under arrest for attempted murder, and harassment, for starters. Hands behind your back…now!”


For a moment, it seemed as if Tony was going to resist. Then, looking maliciously at Max, he complied with the officer’s orders. “This isn’t over,” Tony shouted at Max. “They can’t keep me in prison forever. When I get out…”


“You’ll be one hundred, if you’re lucky,” Detective Burns said as he came into the room. “This was premeditated, making it a first-degree attempted murder charge. Take him to the station house,” he told the officer. “Read him his rights then put him in a holding cell until I get there.”


The officer led Tony away as two more came into the room. At the same time, Art crossed to Max, who had collapsed on one of the desk chairs, his hand pressed against his side. “Get one of the EMTs in here,” Art ordered, then said to Max, “Let me take a look.”


Chapter 40