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

After they’d stepped inside the apartment, Harris had quickly noticed how shaky Jude was. He’d poured him a glass of wine but that had been a mistake. Jude was exhausted and the wine had only made his fatigue worse.


After a few quiet words, Harris had led Jude to his bed and minutes later, Jude had fallen asleep against him. Inside his arms. And that had been better than sex. To hold Jude while he slept, to breathe into his hair and feel his heart beat against his chest, had filled him with strength. With Jude at his side, he could do anything, be anyone.


Now Harris stared at Jude’s face on the pillow, making silent promises to him. He wouldn’t mess this up. He’d be a better man. He’d take care of Jude. Treat him like a king. A powerful feeling of protectiveness came over him and he carefully touched Jude’s cheek.


Jude opened his eyes but didn’t look directly at him. “No,” he mumbled. “No way.”


“What?” Harris asked, surprised. “I wasn’t doing anything.I only touched your face.”


Chapter 35