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

“Tell me what happened to you tonight. Did someone—”


“No, kiss me,” Jude said, cutting him off and tugging on his shirt collar. “Come here. Kiss me.”


Harris leaned away. “No…” The knot in his throat was getting tighter and tighter as anger and concern overwhelmed him. “Tell me what happened or I swear to God I’m gonna smash this bottle against the wall.”


“Don’t threaten me with a tantrum.” Jude looked away at the candles flickering on the coffee table in the living room. “Calm down, Hades.”


But Harris lost it. “Tell me!” He slapped the bar top, his own violent gesture surprising him. “If you give a flying fuck about me, about my feelings, then you’re gonna tell me why your hand is shaking!”


“I don’t wanna talk about it!” Jude shouted. “Can’t you understand that?” His eyes filled up. “Okay?”


“All right…Okay.” Reigning himself in, Harris slipped the glass out of Jude’s hand. “I’m sorry. Look, I’m sorry.”


Chapter 42