Todd and Nick Ruger are on the run after narrowly escaping the war in New Colorado, where they were implicated in the assassination of Chancellor Shaffer. Todd is gravely ill and Nick has serious injuries, but that's the least of their problems. They're alone with dwindling supplies and facing the harsh winter bearing down on them far north in Yellowknife Protectorate. Just when it seems they're trapped between the proverbial rock and hard place, they are offered refuge with a doctor in the isolated town of Elk's Ridge. As they heal, they're offered a fresh start in Elk's Ridge. But just as they begin to rebuild their lives, tragedy strikes. Victor Raleigh, the new Vice-Chancellor of New Colorado, knows all about Nick's psychic abilities, and he'll settle for nothing less than total control over Nick. He's aligned himself with a vicious creature, a type of psychic vampire capable of wielding control over individuals such as Nick. When Nick is betrayed and captured, Todd sees no alternative but to head back into the war zone to rescue him. Will Nick be the same man Todd loves after Raleigh's pet psychic vampire is through with him? Can Nick accept the fact Todd can love him after what Raleigh forces him to do, or will his guilt consume and destroy him?

Chained Hearts

The café they’d found and frequented was near the center of town. Nick was not only permitted to sit on the chairs, but it was encouraged. The other owner, Margaret’s business partner, was also a slave owner and recognized how much slaves became family members. He wanted everyone treated as such. After their experiences in West Caldera and the Governor’s Estate, this town was a refreshing change of pace, and Nick loved it. He desperately wanted to stay but accepted the fact if Todd felt threatened, they’d be moving on again. Todd had warmed considerably to this town; Nick was fairly certain they’d stay and he knew Dr. Porter hoped they would also.


Breakfast wasn’t rushed they had ample time before the library opened. Once finished, they rode the short distance to the library. Nick responded to Todd’s stern warning to watch the time with a soft kiss to his master’s cheek.


Chapter 36