When Jesse Reid needs emergency surgery, he calls his neighbor to come pick him up instead of one of his many family members. As the youngest of nine, Jesse is used to feeling like a leftover, and he doesn’t need their coddling.<br><br>Holden McRae is a big, beautiful man, everything Jesse wants. But Holden has made it clear he doesn’t want Jesse as a submissive.<br><br>Under the influence of Holden’s care, Jesse becomes bolder and makes Holden see what he’s been missing. The two men’s interests line up, and the attraction that has always been there is something they can finally act on. As Jesse heals, he shares parts of his life with Holden, and Holden helps him see he’s so much more than #9. Their love might not be the most conventional, but maybe it’s exactly what both men need.

Forever Nine

“And physically?” He gave me a stern look as I opened my mouth. “The truth, boy.”


I laughed, because lying to him never occurred to me. “A little sore. My stomach hurts, but not badly. Just…like I overdid it a little. I’m fine. Really.”


Holden nodded. “Okay, good. Are you hungry?”


“What can I get you?” He tapped my hip and moved me to the second chair. I missed his touch and warmth immediately.


“I can get—” I stopped abruptly at his hard stare and changed tack. “Um. A scrambled egg? With cheese and toast.”


“You got it.” He stood and crossed the kitchen. He seemed to know where I kept my frying pan, and didn’t hesitate to rummage in the fridge. He’d clearly gone snooping. Part of me thought I should be offended. But I wasn’t. I was glad he felt comfortable enough in my home to help himself to anything he wanted.


Chapter 20