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

“Meaning I’m old?” Gideon replied with a grin.


Sitting on the edge of the bed, Cole shook his head. “No. Meaning it’s perfect…like you.” He arched an eyebrow. “I thought you were going to change into something more comfortable.”


“Well, I’m definitely getting out of what I’m wearing,” Gideon said, beginning to unbutton his dress shirt.


Cole watched, a burst of lust inflaming him. Not unexpected. He knew why they were here and he had no objections. None at all.


When Gideon had his shirt off, he looked at Cole. “Your turn.”


“I’m enjoying watching you strip,” Cole said with a sly grin.


“Colten,” Gideon growled, although he seemed more amused than anything else by Cole’s words.


“If your shirt isn’t off in ten seconds or less…”


“Well, in that case.” As fast as possible, Cole took it off, tossing it on a chair by the balcony doors. “Better?”


Chapter 38