Ben Mercer is an ex-cop, lamed, framed, and thrown off the force for a crime his partner committed. Now homeless, he has no expectations for a better life until he's recruited by Durand, head of Vanguard Security, to join a team that deals with problems the police can't or won't touch. All Ben needs is the approval of the team leader, Zach Turner.<br><br>To get it, Ben has to prove to Zach that he still retains his skills as a sniper, and that he can handle any job thrown at him, despite the still painful damage to his knee. He does, and is immediately pulled into a job with the team, rescuing a kidnap victim.<br><br>Ben had one big secret, or did have until Durand drew it out of him. Before his life was drastically changed he had denied, even to himself, that he was gay. Now that he's accepted it, and learned that Zach is as well, can the two men forge a bond beyond that of being teammates and friends? It will take several more jobs before Ben gets his answer.

A Second Chance

“Not exactly what you were used to, I’m sure,” Ray said once Ben had looked around.


“Let’s put it this way,” Ben replied. “Compared to how I’ve been living recently, it’s a palace. Compared to what I had before the shit hit the fan, yeah, it’s not great, but right now I’m not complaining.”


“There are clean linens and towels in the closet between the bath and bedroom, and we keep the kitchen stocked with basics.”


“What, no filets mignons and champagne?” Ben kidded.


Ray laughed. “Not on our dime. The laundry room is down the hall, right past the elevator. Oh.” He took a phone from his messenger bag, handing it to Ben. “It’s a burner with three hours’ worth of minutes. Durand’s and my phone numbers are already programmed in. Even though it’s untraceable, I suggest you don’t call your old friends.”


“Yeah, right. Like I’ve got any now.” Ben pocketed the phone then went to look out the window opposite the bookcase. “Great view, if you don’t mind rooftops.”


Chapter 5