Gideon Monahan is a man dedicated to what he does -- recovering stolen art -- to the exclusion of anything else, including a personal life. There's a reason for that, something that happened in his past that he can't forget.<br><br>Cole Newell is an archaeologist with a problem. He needs to find out who looted a dig he worked the previous summer, after one of the artifacts shows up at his gallery. Cole calls on Gideon to lend his expertise, which, much against his better judgment, Gideon does.<br><br>When one of the looters is murdered, they set out to find answers, with the help of Detective Quint Hawk. In the process, Cole realizes he's attracted to Gideon, even though he's certain the man is straight. After he helps Gideon open up about -- and accept -- his past, can the two men become more than friends? Both Gideon and Cole hope so, once they overcome the myriad problems facing them.

It Takes an Archaeologist

“Never is,” Cole replied. “When I eat here, I always ask for a booth back there—” he pointed, “—so I can hear myself think.”


Cole repressed a shiver of desire when Gideon’s breath tickled his ear. He moved a step away, earning a lifted eyebrow and a knowing smile from Gideon. Thankfully, Gideon left it at that, without comment.


They remained quiet, people watching, until a waitress brought their bagged-up dinners. The drive to Cole’s house took ten minutes. Once they were inside, Cole set out plates and silverware on the table. Gideon opened the bags, distributing their food, then they began eating.


“You were right. The burgers are great. At least, mine is,” Gideon commented.


Chapter 25