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

What was he trying to say with this piece? He was hoping to evoke a sense of dread in people. This chair, with its menacing back, was threatening, though it was only a seat. Pain was everywhere. Hurt was a possibility in everything. This chair, this Throne of Hurts, was his soul speaking out loud.


The garage door was open and from where he sat, Jude could see the narrow street descending the steep hill. Around him were mansions. Houses worth ten, twenty, sometimes fifty million dollars.


Charlie, an-ex client of his, an actor, had offered to let Jude use his garage. The man was never home. Jude supposed he’d taken pity on him. Sometimes Charlie blew through town and would ask Jude up to his house. A few drinks in the steam room and a blow job. That was the extent of it.


Chapter 41