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

Zach took her hand, half expecting her to pull it away. When she didn’t, he said, “This could be dangerous for you, if he decides to teach youa lesson for ignoring him and starting to see another man.”


She nodded; her expression a mix of fear and determination. “As long as I know you’re going to stop him before that happens.”


“We’ll be with you every step of the way, although I’ll stay well out of sight,” Ben told her.


“Then let’s do it,” she said resolutely as she got up.


“Give me five to get down there and pick a spot,” Ben said as she started toward the door. “Go to the main restaurant, Zach, not the one where we ate breakfast. I’d stand out like a sore thumb there.”


“You’d stand out anywhere with your hair and beard so how about we switch roles.”


When Ben hesitated, Irene said, “He’s right. So you’ll be my—” she grinned, “—afternoon delight.”


“Good lord,” Ben muttered. “All right, since both of you insist, get moving, Zach. We’ll be down there in ten.”


Chapter 39