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 soft brushing of fingers over his cheek then through his hair again drew his attention outward. Jah’lar’s soft voice was close to his ear. “There, there, Nick, your master won’t let anyone hurt you, will he?”


Nick’s breathing evened out, and his quaking insides settled. How Todd’s muscled chest felt under Nick’s cheek pushed away any thoughts of the kelbit. He leaned against the hand cupping his cheek and moaned softly.


“You sleep now, Nick. Your master will watch over you, protect you.”


The world crumbled away, and soft, kind blackness filled Nick’s mind. He and Todd were wrapped together, sleeping peacefully in the comfort of their bed. 9


Nick was staring at a wall. He blinked a few times and pulled in full, easy breaths, letting them out again slowly. Finally, his brain kicked in and let him know he was awake. Groaning softly, he rubbed his forehead. The soft chink of chains registered at the same time Nick realized his arm felt heavy and slightly weighted down.


Chapter 45