It’s 1955, Las Vegas is swinging, and David Lonergan has the chance of a lifetime when he accompanies his cousin to be the headlining act at the Thunderbird Casino. A pianist who cut his teeth in the jazz clubs of Chicago, David is a dazzled by the lights, the music, and the “anything goes” attitude of Las Vegas. But he’s not knocked off his feet until he meets Vincent “Shorty” Accardo.<br><br>Vincent is a full-time bodyguard and sometimes hitman for the mob-controlled casino. He doesn’t indulge his interest in men very often, but there’s something different about David from the moment they meet. He’s attracted to David’s talent, his surprising innocence, and his easy smile.<br><br.There are a million reasons to stay away from the young piano player, but Vincent can’t help himself. Even when there are lives at risk.

The Bad and the Beautiful

Vincent let himself out of the suite and immediately began working on the list of tasks Jimmy gave him. He didn’t know if he agreed about Rossellini’s involvement, but he also knew he wasn’t the best judge in this situation. His only real concern was for David’s safety. He wished he had killed the bastards when he had the chance, but the part of him that was always aware of David stopped him from delivering the killing blows. He didn’t want the other man to see him like that. He didn’t understand that, either.


Chapter 15