Retired secret agent Ben Smith will do anything for his husband. So when Simon's brother calls from London to say he's being blackmailed, Ben and Simon pack up and head to the glittering world of English aristocratic younger sons and parties and incriminating photographs. The mission itself isn't complicated -- but it's a reminder of the past, even as Ben's been trying to move on.<br><br>Simon Ashley adores his husband, and loathes most of his family ... except for the older brother who once gave him a home. He's here because Stephen needs help, but being back in the family house stirs up too many memories, none of them pleasant.<br><br>In London, Ben and Simon will confront a blackmailer, face the past, and find comfort in each other ... with some leather and tea, of course.

Leather and Tea in London

“What is it? I promise I don’t have naked photos stashed at any ex’s place, honestly. It wouldn’t be out of the realm of things I might’ve done, mind you, but I never actually did anything involving pictures or video. Which surprises me, now that I’m thinking of it.”


“Not that. She’s in London. She’s coming here. Or I’m pretty sure.”


“Well,” Simon said, impressively calm about it, “we’ll have to find her photos fast. How’s your technological magic?”


“Just a few more seconds. Bedroom, do you think?”


“Possibly? More private, and also, well…if she likes my brother naked…”


“Don’t make me think about that!”


The bedroom held even more pink. And black. Walls, furniture, tasseled pillows. And an elaborately mirrored ceiling. Simon peeked up at himself. “I might understand the appeal. I could watch us that way, while I’m on my back…”


“We are not putting in a mirrored ceiling!”


“Perhaps I’ll buy a big mirror for near the bed, then. I’m running out of places to look.”


Chapter 18