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

“Can I get you something to drink?” he said instead. He crossed to the bar and poured himself a finger of scotch. “Or we could get some dinner sent up if you’re hungry.”


“I’m not hungry, but I could use a drink. Or two.”


It wasn’t until he was reaching for the second glass that he realized he’d asked out of habit, but this was the first time Vince had ever actually accepted. He glanced back, trying to read Vince’s face, but as usual, it was calm and closed, if a little tired. The only time David had seen that particular mask slip had been the night of Moulin Rouge, both at the other casino and here in David’s suite. Still, something was wrong for Vince to ask for alcohol, and David couldn’t just ignore it to placate his own feelings of guilt.


“Kate says you’ve been busy,” he said when he handed Vince the drink. He took a careful seat on the couch next to him, with enough distance to encourage conversation rather than contact


Chapter 27