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 hurried past him in the hallway, going straight for his white tennis shoes in the entrance. He never made eye contact with Harris, and Harris knew the reasons why. Jude was embarrassed. Maybe even ashamed.


He wouldn’t make things worse for him. “Be careful,” he whispered, stepping up to Jude in the entrance. “Don’t take shit from anyone. Call me as soon as you’re done. As soon as you step out.” Jude finally looked at him. In his eyes, Harris could see torment and doubt. And it hurt him. “I’m proud of you, Jude. I’m proud of who you are, regardless of what you do today.”


“Oh, Harris,” Jude gasped, shaking his head. “That’s so kind. The things you say sometimes. Wow.” Then he was gone, out the door.


Harris stared at the close door for a moment, overwhelmed with painful emotions. He could have punched the wall. Destroyed every bottle or flask in his lab. He could have wept. But after a few seconds, he forced himself to move away from that door and find something healthy to do.


Chapter 45