Three times burned, Br’er Harris swears off efforts to find love. He still has needs, though, which he satisfies by becoming a paid escort. Widower Ray Cunningham wants to explore the feelings of attraction to men he’s had most of his life but has kept hidden for fear of rejection from his ultra-conservative family. Ray doesn’t want a relationship with a man; he just wants to satisfy his urges with no-strings hook-ups. And the easiest way to achieve this is to hire an escort. Ray’s first encounter is with Br’er, and they’re instantly and powerfully drawn to each other. The attraction is so powerful and disturbing, each privately vows to never see the other again. However, their feelings will not be denied. Br’er accepts a second meeting, which leads to a third, then a fourth. Despite his previous history with relationships, Br’er knows Ray is the one for him. Unfortunately, Ray’s fear of being outed to his family keeps him from being able to offer more than clandestine meetings in out of town hotel rooms. Br’er says it’s enough, but Ray knows he deserves better. Ray is faced with a decision. Can he let Br’er go to find the love he deserves, or will he be able to throw open the closet door and live openly with the man he’s hardwired to love?

Hardwired for Love

__ Platonic only; no physical interaction.


__ Light intimacy: hugging, cuddling, kissing.


__ Casual sexual contact: massage, manual sex.


__ Intercourse __Top __Bottom __ Versatile


Br’er thought for a moment and then checked every box. He felt that if he were versatile, he’d be more likely to get the job.


At the very bottom was a disclaimer. Antonio’s does not offer services in the areas of domination, or sadomasochism. The liability is too great. Should a client request this, decline and report this request. Such clients will be denied service in the future and referred to other agencies. If that is your predilection you must not suggest or go along with any such activity.


No problem, Br’er thought. Not my thing.


He was looking over his answers when the receptionist said, “Br’er, Antonio will see you now.” She pointed to a set of large, oak doors.


Chapter 5