Sex can be a dangerous business. So can love. On the worst day of his life, Wren Gallagher wants oblivion when he steps into Tricks for a drink. When a mysterious stranger steps up to pay his tab, he offers Wren the key to fulfilling his dreams of prosperity and true love. But appearances are not always what they seem. His savior owns the escort agency ? Louer, and he wants the young and handsome Wren as part of his stable of men-for-hire. Down on his luck, Wren figures, why not? He needs the money. When he joins, though, he doesn't count on meeting Rufus, another escort with whom he falls hopelessly in love. But their love story will have to overcome the obstacles of not only trading love for money, but ? Louer's dark -- and deadly -- secrets.

A Dangerous Game

Or should I just call in sick? Will one more day really make much difference? I mean, I really do feel sick.


It doesn’t take much to convince me. My limbs feel as if they’re weighted down as I get up to grab my cell and tap my boss’s direct line on its screen. I picture her: a black woman in her thirties with three kids, a mortgage, and no sense of humor. Great for someone who’s in charge of copy for a big ad agency. After I hear her crisp, no-nonsense message, I mumble wearily into the phone, “Hi, this is Rufus. I’m not feeling well. I won’t be in today. Call me at home if you need anything.” I feel like adding, but I don’t, “I’ll be awake watching movies until about one. After one I’ll be in a restless sleep on the couch, that cat curled up in the crook of my bent knees.”


Chapter 42