Doren was born with a powerful gift -- a gift he's managed to use to put him well on his way to becoming a star. But there is more to that gift than just musical talent, and as careful as Doren is to hide that fact, there are some who know of the power behind the sound, and all the ways they could abuse it.<br><br>August's goal in life is simple: make an impact in the music industry. An opportunity to work as the personal assistant to Doren seems to be exactly the kind of break he needs to accomplish that goal.<br><br>But all too often in life, simple becomes just another complication, especially when there are people whose goal is even simpler: destroy and dominate.

The Gift

Doren flopped onto his back and stared at the ceiling, while August waited, silent, in the awkward, too-quiet moment. He wanted to be bold, wanted to reach out and run his fingers over Doren’s chest—test the feel of the muscles that shone with sweat—but he couldn’t bring himself to do it.


August turned to look directly at him. “Tell you what?”


“Be serious.” Doren turned to do the same. Face to face, Doren began undoing the buttons of August’s soiled shirt. “I wouldn’t have pressured you so hard if I knew you were…well, you know.”


Traces of electric excitement lit August’s skin when the fabric was brushed aside. “Liar.”


“All right, maybe,” Doren agreed with a grin. He leaned forward to press a kiss on the soft spot between August’s shoulder and collarbone. “But I would have pressured nicely.” Doren dragged his hand down he spoke, trailing his fingertips over August’s torso.


Chapter 38