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

“Where are you going?” Irene asked when Ben got up.


“I can’t find my phone.” He patted his pants pockets. “Let me check your car. It may have fallen out when I was getting in.”


She smiled, rubbing his arm. “You really need one of those cases that clip onto your belt.”


“I know, I know.” He bent to kiss her forehead. “If you’ve told me once…”


“Now I know what I’m getting you for your birthday.”


Chuckling, he replied, “I’ll be back in a sec.”


He was almost to the stairs when his phone vibrated. Waiting until he was on them, he checked it and saw, Are you setting yourself up?


Ben could visualize Zach flipping him off as he replied, It’s almost dark. He could be anywhere out there, waiting. Give me five to get in position.


Can’t. He’ll be expecting me out there any second now.


Chapter 42