In the advertising business, Harris Desmond is notorious for his bad boy attitude, but behind that arrogant front hides a sensitive soul. Weeks away from launching his first perfume for men, Erebus, Harris dreams of success and finally emerging from his painful past. Weeks before the launch party, Harris's friend suggests he contact an escort agency to hire a date for his big night. Of course, Harris has his reservations about the idea, but the last years of casual encounters and failed relationships have left him feeling lonely. He secretly longs for someone special who'd understand him and all of his faults. When the agency sends him his date, Pallas, Harris gets a lot more than he paid for. Sweet and vulnerable, Pallas cuts through Harris's heart like a clean blade. But Pallas is chasing a dream, running on empty and caught in a downward spiral. He wants to give Harris his heart, yet after years of seeing the ugly side of people, he fears there's nothing left of it to give. But Harris knows the secret of scents, and he and Pallas are the perfect accord.

Cling to Me

Jude was talking with Mineau, obviously catering to Mineau’s ego. They chatted by a fake marble statue of an Oneroi, on which were reflected erotic images of men kissing.


“You are hooked on him,” Reshone added with a smirk.


Harris couldn’t keep his eyes off Jude. “Is it that obvious?”


“When I took that picture of you two, the one I sent to Charon, well, I couldn’t believe how good you two looked together. You make a very attractive and powerful couple. You’re like those Greek myths or something.”


“Yeah, like Apollo and Hyacinth…”


“None of the myths do.” He took the last gulp of his drink and felt the alcohol hit him. Had to be careful with that tonight.


“Did you tell him?” Reshone spoke quietly, holding his arm. “Did you share your feelings with him at all?”


Chapter 29