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

Harris entered the sunny apartment and was pleased to see it was tidy and colorfully painted. As a matter of fact, every wall was painted in warm tones of red and orange, with a touch of blue or that Chartreuse green he’d seen behind Jude’s ear that night. He was surprised at the cheeriness of the apartment. This was indeed the home of an artist, full of original and mismatched furniture—charming and bold. “This place is wonderful,” he said, fastening his eyes to the most beautiful thing in the room—Jude’s face.


“It’s not much, but it’s home.” Jude stood near him, nervous, but smiling. He was dressed in dark blue skinny jeans and wore a navy-blue checkered shirt over a red T-shirt.


“I’d forgotten just how beautiful you are,” Harris whispered, completely smitten by Jude’s eyes. “And you look younger, happier, more like yourself in this home, if that makes any sense. I love the colors on you.”


Chapter 58