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

Hayley rolled her eyes. “He couldn’t if he tried. He’s totally a big brother and they don’t ‘baby,’ they push. Or so I’ve been told.”


“He’ll push hard when he thinks it’s necessary,” Ez said. “Like now. Just to let you know, in case I haven’t said it already, I think you’re a great addition to the team, Ben. We all have our limitations. If we didn’t, we’d be working solo. For now, why don’t we go get dinner? Then you and Hayley can come back here and,” he snickered, “discuss the plight of the dodo while Zach and I play super spies.”


Ben nodded as he stood. “I apologize for blowing up. I’ll try not to do it again.”


Zach shrugged casually. “As we keep saying, we’re a team. We’ll have our differences but when we do, we’ll work them out. It comes with the territory.”


“So deal,” Hayley said as she headed to the door. “And move it. I’m starving.”


Chapter 27