After seeing his father’s profligate ways almost destroy the family business, Ransom Burke has instituted a firm policy of no work fraternization. When his longtime lover leaves him for a woman, Ransom vows never again to let anyone get close to him. He informs all future lovers he’ll shower them with gifts as long as they remain monogamous. However, at the first sign of straying, they’ll receive a bouquet of white roses tipped with gold and the affair will be over. Man after man chooses straying over Ransom until the day the very appealing Parrish Rutledge comes to work for him. That means Parrish will forever be out of his reach. Parrish has been alone since he was sixteen, having been tossed out when his older brother discovered he was gay. He’s immediately attracted to his new boss, but even though he dreams of Ransom, he knows, due to the company policy, it can’t go anywhere. But in the aftermath of the office Christmas party, things change between them, and Parrish is given a choice: keep his job and know he can never again see Ransom as anything other than his boss, or quit and become his lover. The one is unthinkable, and as for the other, Ransom is a serial monogamist who doesn’t have the best track record. Parrish’s choice will either lead to a Christmas Day where once again he’ll be alone, or the best present ever will be under his tree.

The Best

“Believe me, Coll. I’ve never meant anything more.” She picked up her Dolce and Gabbana handbag and walked out.”


She ignored his shout, her heart pounding so hard she couldn’t quite catch her breath. She paused outside the door of her husband’s room, her fist pressed against her chest, and drew in a few breaths.


“Are you okay, Mrs. Burke?” The evening nurse who’d been assigned to Collin looked concerned. “Can I get you anything?”


“I’m…” She rubbed her left arm and caught her breath. “I’m fine. Thank you. I’ll be down in the cafeteria if my sons should inquire.” Although she doubted they would. She and Collin had made a fine hash of it. She straightened and walked down the corridor to the elevator. 18


Chapter 49