Monte’s sporting goods store is teetering on the edge of collapse due to the economic problems. The small conservative eastern California town he chose for his dream project is not welcoming, even though he keeps his gay lifestyle quiet. Then big trouble and a gorgeous package delivery driver fall into his world at the same time. Are they somehow connected?<br><br>Jeff, a special agent for Homeland Security, is working undercover to help bust a contraband and drug operation. Tracks lead to the small town of Cameron Creek, California. Who is the crime ring’s contact at this end? As a delivery driver, Jeff is scoping things out. When he meets Monte, he is smitten at once, but evidence begins to link this new friend to the case. Jeff has every reason not to pursue a relationship, but can he stop himself?

Special Delivery

“Good boy.” Barton dragged a Kong toy out of his pocket and handed it to the dog after the animal stepped back and sat down. “Good boy. You did well.” Sherlock took the toy and began to lick out the peanut butter filling through the larger hole. Barton lifted the box down. He fumbled in another pocket for a retractable razor knife. With a few deft slashes, he cut the tape.


Peering over his shoulder, Jed read the label. His heart sank. It was going to the Sportsman’s Stop.


Oh, shit, no. Damn it, no.But there was no denying the stark black lettering. Inside the box they found a jumble of things—packages of golf and tennis balls, a pair of bowling shoes, a couple of baseball gloves, some ski wax. Barton took the items out one after the other and set them on the floor until he reached the bottom. Then he halted, peering intently at the box. In a moment Jed noticed it, too. The inside depth seemed less than the height of the box from the floor to the top.


Chapter 11