FLIRT

Pilot James uses flirting and sleeping with guys as his therapy. He likes variety and quantity when it comes to the bedroom. He doesn’t trust people, and the only way he really knows how to relate to others is through sex.

Cabe Evans is the complete opposite of his best friend and roommate, Pilot. He likes things safe and predictable. In fact, he’s been with his girlfriend, Lydia, since high school. But lately life is a little too bland, even for him, as things begin to fizzle in the bedroom.

When Lydia starts pushing for Cabe to move in with her, both men realize the feelings they have for each other might actually go way beyond simple friendship. But will Pilot’s fear of intimacy, and Cabe’s rejection of anything that deviates from his perfect life plan, destroy any chance they might have at happiness?

EXCERPT:

I’ve always loved to flirt.

Luring a guy in makes me feel powerful. Desired. In control. Plus I don’t like to get too attached to people. Casual sex is a great way to have a little fun, without all the entanglements of messy emotions. You can’t really trust feelings. They’re fickle.

It wouldn’t take years of therapy to figure out why I am the way I am. I’ll admit I have major trust issues. Cue violins, right? I basically shut down emotionally when I turned seventeen because my dad beat the shit out of me and kicked me out of his home. I’d thought my dad loved me. He’d always told me what a great kid I was growing up and that he was proud of me. He’d seen to it that we did manly things together when I was younger: fishing and hunting. I’m sure I was a disappointment because I’d sucked at all of it. I’d barely been able to bait a hook, and I’d puked the first time I shot a rabbit. But I’d tried because I’d wanted to please him.

Then I got a crush on a boy in high school, and it was like my dad decided he hated me overnight. The teachers had always drilled tolerance into our adolescent brains. I’d stupidly thought that the world was the way my Social Studies teacher, Mrs. Cleo, told me it was. I woke up real fast the day I came out to my dad.

The sad part is, I’m now twenty-three years old and I still haven’t gotten over that traumatic experience. It’s just that when you trust someone loves you, and it turns out they must not have, it’s scarring. I was lucky because I didn’t end up on the streets like some of the kids I’d heard about. My best friend Cabe’s family took me in. I still remember that humid night six years ago when, bloody and scared, I ended up on Cabe’s front porch. Cabe and his parents had always been there for me, and that night was no exception.

“Are you working or napping?” My trip down memory lane ended abruptly as Cabe waved his hand in front of my nose. His dark blue eyes were curious.

I laughed while grabbing a towel and wiping the bar distractedly. “Sorry. I didn’t notice you come in.”

“I’ve been sitting here almost five minutes,” Cabe grumbled. He leaned his chin on his palm and sighed loudly. “You’re going to get fired.”

“No way. They love me here.”

“We’ll see.”

“Relax.” I popped the lid off of a cold beer and pushed it across the bar toward him. “This one’s on me.”

“Thanks. But you don’t have to do that.”

“I know.”

He took a sip and then bumped the bottle down with a sigh. “Jesus, what a day.”

“Work problems?”

“Work. Lydia. Life. Everything sucks right now.” He loosened his paisley tie.

“What’s wrong with Lydia this time?” I pushed some buttons on the cash terminal and swiped the credit card of another patron.

“She’s pressuring me to move in with her.”

I frowned. “Fuck that. I don’t want to have to find a new roomie.”

He laughed. “Yes, and I make all my life decisions based on what you want.”

“Look, she’s a nice girl and all, but you two fight too much already. I can’t even imagine what would happen if you moved in with her.” I shook my head.

“I know. I know.”

“I’m telling you, if you shack up next she’ll want a ring.” I studied his blank face. “Do you want to marry her?”

He shrugged. “I guess.”

I bugged my eyes. “Since when?”

“I don’t know. We’ve been dating since high school so I might as well marry her. I’m not interested in any other girls.” He sucked on his beer, looking miserable.

“Be sure you phrase your proposal just like that. That will be super flattering to her.” I laughed.

“It’s not funny.”

“Trust me, I know.” I leaned on my elbow and studied my friend. “So you’re actually ready for the whole marriage and babies thing?”

He seemed to slump even more. “Oh, God. Babies.”

“Well, if you move in with her or marry her, you know that’s coming, right?” I bit my lower lip. “Do you want that with her?” I felt weird at the idea of him settling into domestic bliss with Lydia. It just seemed off.

“Shouldn’t I? I’m not eighteen. Isn’t marriage and a family kind of the next step? Shouldn’t I be looking forward to that?”

I straightened, an odd churning in my gut. “You either are or you’re not. I don’t think you can force that shit.”

“Seems like I should be ready.” His voice was soft and he had a deep line between his dark brows.

I snorted and stuffed down the uneasiness that had invaded me. “Personally, I think you should break up with Lydia, bang some other chicks, and not take things so seriously.”

He narrowed his gaze. “I just told you, I’m not interested in any other girls.”

I shook my head. “Lydia’s the only girl you’ve ever screwed. How would you know if you’re interested in something else or not?”

He looked around, embarrassed. “Shut the fuck up, Pilot. Jesus.”

I held up my hands. “I’m just trying to help.”

“What should I do? Fuck anything that walks, like you?” His mouth was hard.

I didn’t show that his words hit home. Instead, I plastered on a big fake smile. “I have my standards.”

“Right.” He followed my gaze toward a guy at the other end of the bar. I’d been flirting with him earlier and Cabe must have noticed. “Is he tonight’s conquest?”

The guy down the way was watching us. He had blond hair, big brown eyes and a naive, sexy vibe I liked. “Oh, yeah.”

“God.” Cabe rolled his eyes. “You know, you’re the same age as me. You need to be thinking about having a real, grown-up relationship too.”

I cringed. “Don’t even jest.”

“I’m serious, dude.”

“Not interested.” I sighed and moved toward Blondie. “Don’t wait up, mom.”

“Don’t be a jerk, Pilot.” Cabe’s voice was rough as he called after me.

I just waved him off and slipped the receipt in front of my intended victim. “Hey.” I made sure my smile was my most seductive.

The guy swallowed and smiled back. “Hey yourself.”

“I’m off in an hour.”

He laughed nervously. “Okay.”

I leaned on the bar and pinned my gaze on his mouth. “What’s your name?” I already knew his name from his credit card, but I didn’t want to look like a creeper.

“Tom.”

I held out my hand. “My name’s Pilot.”

He took my fingers and the heat of his skin sank into mine. “Like in the Bible?”

Shaking my head I said, “No. Like the airplane. My mom thought it was cool so I got stuck with it.”

He shrugged. “It’s unusual, but not in a bad way.”

“Thanks.”

He looked around the bar. “My blind date never showed.”

I pouted my lips. “Aw. What a terrible shame.”

He frowned. “You don’t suppose he took one look at me and split, do you?”

I ran my gaze over his body. “If he did, he’s an idiot.” I licked my lips for good measure. I could tell it had the effect I wanted because the pulse at the base of his throat began to beat swiftly.

He finished off his beer and sighed. “God I hate the dating scene.” He pulled out his wallet and set his credit card on top of the receipt I’d set down.

“Where’d you find this guy?”

His cheeks turned a lovely shade of pink. “Grindr.”

I smirked. “Honestly, if you just want to get laid that’s the app for you. But if you’re looking for a relationship, you might want to try something like Match.com.”

He arched one brow. “Did I say I was looking for a relationship?”

“Pfft. You have it written all over your adorable baby face.” He didn’t look like a player. The more I thought about it, the more I wondered if maybe I shouldn’t be bothering with him. He was obviously inexperienced. But damn he was cute, and I knew I’d enjoy fucking him.

I took his credit card and moved toward the register. I could feel him checking out my ass. I always wore my tightest skinny jeans when I was in the mood to pick up a dude at the end of my shift. I’d been wearing them a lot lately. I wasn’t sure if I was horny because it was spring, or if I was depressed and sex cheered me up a little.

Cabe leaned toward me waving his empty bottle. “Any luck trying to get in Blondie’s pants?”

I met his gaze, trying to keep mine blank. “Why? You want me all to yourself?”

He rolled his eyes. “Nope. I just feel sorry for the guy. You’re going to chew him up and spit him out and he won’t even know what happened.”

I handed Cabe another beer. “You’re just jealous because I can fuck anybody I want and you only get to have sex with Lydia.”

His shoulders slumped and he sipped his beer. “We haven’t slept together in ages.”

I frowned. “Why? Does she have a headache?”

He laughed. “She’s in the mood. I’m not.” He peered down at his crotch. “Mr. Wiggles doesn’t want to come out and play lately.”

I grinned at the nickname he’d given his cock when we were kids. “I did notice she hasn’t slept over in a while. Maybe you should see if you can get some blue pills.”

Scowling, he shook his head. “Fuck that. Who the hell uses those damn pills at my age? Those are for older guys.”

I glanced over my shoulder at Tom. “I can’t really worry about your limp dick right now. I have someone who makes mine nice and hard waiting for me at the end of the bar.”

“Fine. Go break the poor guy’s heart. I should leave soon anyway. Lydia’s cooking dinner for me.” He straightened. “Wait, she’s making dinner at our place. Is that going to be a problem with you bringing home Blondie?”

“Only if you mind hearing him scream with pleasure while you and Lydia eat your num nums.”

He snorted. “God, you’re such a jerk sometimes.”

I hesitated and studied Cabe’s face. “I bring guys home all the time. I’m not sure why tonight would be different.”

His gaze flickered. “Yeah. I know.” He shrugged. “Never mind. I’m just in a weird mood.”

I could tell something was bugging him. Maybe he really did need some alone time with Lydia. “I’ll see if we can go to his place.”

He laughed sheepishly. “I’m feeling a lot of pressure from her on the sexual front. Maybe I’m having performance anxiety.” He peered down at Tom, and he frowned. “Not something you ever seem to have a problem with, I notice. I was wondering if maybe we should install a revolving door in the house.”

“Very funny.”

“I’m only half kidding. You’ve been seeing a lot of guys the last few months. I don’t think I’ve seen the same one twice.”

“Nothing new about that.”

“True.”

I shrugged. “I’ve been thinking about my dad a lot lately and I’d rather not.” I avoided his gaze, not wanting to seem pathetic.

“Fucking a shitload of guys helps you not think about your late father?”

I laughed snidely. “Not exactly. But it cheers me up because it’s the ultimate fuck you to him.” I flipped the ceiling the bird. “I’m gay and there’s nothing he can do about it.”

“Got it.” He nodded. He tipped his beer and his throat muscles bobbed up and down in his tanned throat.

A funny little shiver worked through me as I ran my gaze along his stubbly chin and full lips. I pulled my eyes away, uncertain of what those strange feelings were. Cabe was straight and I’d never once thought about him in a sexual way. I swallowed hard and ran a hand through my hair. It had to be all the weird feelings my dad was bringing up in me. It made me feel unsettled and nervous.

“What’s wrong?” When I looked up Cabe was watching me intently. “You okay?”

I nodded and turned to face Tom. “Wish me luck.”

“Good luck.” Cabe obliged.

I cleared my throat. “I’ll see if going to his place is cool. You need to screw that woman of yours before your dick falls off from disuse.”

“You have such a way with words.”

I ignored him and headed back toward Tom. He took his card from me and our fingers brushed. He squirmed in his seat and looked up at me. “Were you flirting with me earlier?” He sounded breathless.

I smiled. “Yeah.”

He wiped his palms on his jeans. “I never do this kind of thing.”

“What kind of thing?”

He laughed awkwardly. “Casual sex.”

His innocent act was kind of a turn-on. But I felt a pang of conscience when Cabe’s speech about me using him up and spitting him out reverberated in my head. I looked down toward Cabe and found him watching us with a funny look on his face. When I turned back to Tom he looked so hopeful I decided to ignore Cabe. Tom was a big boy. I wasn’t forcing him to do anything he didn’t want to do.

“Are you interested?” I asked quietly.

“Where would we do it?” Tom’s voice wobbled.

I smiled. “We could go to your place if you want?”

He frowned and ran a finger under his collar. “We could but um… I live with my mom.”

I laughed, having second thoughts. “How old are you?”

“Twenty-one.”

At least he was legal. “Hmm.” When I looked back toward Cabe he was gone. His absence left me with a strange hollow feeling in the pit of my stomach.

“I’m not a baby.” Tom’s indignant voice jogged me back to the moment.

I turned my attention to him as I lifted one brow. “Sure about that?”

He sighed and muttered, “Jesus. I’m never going to get laid if I don’t move out of my mom’s house.”

“Well, I definitely prefer guys who have their own place. A roommate is one thing, but living with your mom is kind of a major cock block.”

He surprised me when he grinned. “I know. Seriously though, I have a good job and I’m only staying with her temporarily while I save money to buy a place of my own. I have a plan. I’m not an emotionally stunted guy living in his mom’s basement. I swear.”

His sincerity got through to me. “So you work?”

“Yes. God.” His eyes were wide. “I definitely work.”

I smirked. “It’s not just like a paper route, right? You don’t ride around on a bike and toss papers on people’s porches?”

“No. It’s a real job.” He laughed.

“Okay. Good.”

“Is there some reason we can’t go to your place?” He narrowed his eyes while smiling. “You don’t live with your mom, do you?”

I chuckled. “No. I live with my best friend. We have a two-bedroom house over on the west side.”

“Ooh, la la.” He waggled his brows. “A house, not an apartment.”

“The thing is he has his girlfriend over tonight.”

He nodded as if he understood. “But you have your own room, right?” He tucked his credit card and receipt into his wallet.

“Of course.”

He twisted his lips as he watched me. “So what’s the problem?”

My mouth twitched. “Maybe there isn’t one?”

“This night’s pretty much sucked. The one exception has been meeting you.” He sighed. “Getting laid would soften the blow of being stood up.”

I grinned. “That’s very analytical.”

He smiled. “I’m a software engineer.”

“Makes sense.” I poured a glass of wine for another customer as I held Tom’s gaze. I served the other patron and returned to Tom. He looked nervous as he fidgeted in his seat. “I’m not looking for anything serious.”

He nodded. “Okay.” He swallowed. “So this would just be a hookup. I can do that.” He sounded like he was trying to convince himself.

I grinned. “You sure?”

“Yeah.” He leaned toward me, his gaze warm with arousal. “I’m nervous, but I want to go home with you.”

“Are you a top or a bottom?”

He cleared his throat. “I’m whatever you want me to be tonight.”

“Good answer.”

He pumped his fist. “Yes.”

I laughed out loud. “God, don’t do that.” I looked around but nobody was paying any attention. “You’re not a virgin, right?”

He shook his head, looking insulted. “Of course not.”

I wasn’t sure I believed him. Virgins were a lot of work. I grabbed a wine cooler and pushed it toward him. “Here, it’s on the house. I have a feeling you should be a little on the drunk side for later.”

He frowned. “I’m not a virgin.”

“Shhh.” I grinned.

He held up his fingers. “I’ve had sex with three guys and multiple times each.”

My lips twitched. “Okay. I believe you.”

He grabbed the wine cooler and took a long swig. Then he bumped the bottle down on the bar and grinned. “I’ll just be here waiting.”

“You do that.”

I thought about texting Cabe to warn him I was coming home after all. But then I decided that might be even weirder. We’d lived together a long time, and I’d brought plenty of guys home when he’d had Lydia there. I couldn’t understand why all of a sudden Cabe seemed uncomfortable with the idea. It wasn’t like I was gonna have sex in the front room.

I met Tom’s amorous stare and decided I didn’t really care why my best friend had a bug up his ass tonight. I wasn’t going to fuck some guy in my car or a public bathroom because Cabe was acting weird. Nope, I was getting laid in my own bed tonight. Whether Cabe liked it or not.

AMAZON

ARe

 

Cop and the Nosey Neighbor

Matt MacGregor is pissed at the world. All he ever wanted was to be a cop. But when he’s shot on the job, his confidence is rattled to the core. Sulky and drunk most of the time, the last thing he wants is to be bothered by anyone.
Berlin Rhodes just moved into the same apartment complex as Matt. He’s the complete opposite of Matt; he loves people and has a positive outlook on life.
When Berlin needs to use Matt’s phone because his power didn’t get turned on, an unlikely friendship begins between these two polar opposites. Berlin wants to do whatever he can to coax Matt back into the land of the living, but is Matt too prideful to make the leap?

EXCERPT:

I needed to forget the moment that asshole shot me.

Me. One of L.A. PD’s finest.

But because I couldn’t erase it from my brain without a little assistance, I was sprawled on my couch, covered in sweat and drunk off my ass.

Again.

My shoulder ached and throbbed as the scenario of the perp pulling his gun from under the seat swam in front of my eyes. Three weeks had passed but I could still feel the scorching, ripping agony of the bullet tearing through my flesh and muscle. A couple of inches up and I’d be dead. Shot through the head. A few inches down wouldn’t have been any better and I’d still have been in a body bag.

I was lucky.

That’s what everybody kept telling me. But I didn’t feel lucky. I felt like I had a bullseye on my back now. If this could happen once it could happen again. I was rattled. Fuck. I was so rattled. That wasn’t like me. Nothing scared me. I was the first one through the door in a dangerous situation. I’d wanted to be a cop since I was old enough to talk. My dad was a cop. My brother was a cop. I was fucking born to be a cop.

When the doorbell rang I ignored it. Go the hell away. Whoever you are, I don’t want any. But the asshole kept ringing the buzzer. I wiped my face and sat up slowly, the room spinning a little. I had my blinds drawn so maybe I could just wait them out. But the jarring sound was beginning to piss me off. Who rang a bell ten times? I set my whiskey glass on the coffee table and wobbled to my feet.

Staggering to the door I looked through the peep hole. Red hair and a plaid shirt were about all I could make out. What was the fucking point of peep holes when you could never really see a damn thing? The person could be holding a bazooka and I wouldn’t be able to tell.

The doorbell buzzed for the fifteenth time and I yanked open the door feeling like I wanted to rip someone’s head off. The guy standing there was medium build and about my age. He must have seen how angry I was because he took a step back and grimaced.

“Sorry.” His voice quivered. “I wasn’t sure if you were home or not.” His eyes were an odd brown: almost the color of honey. It was an unusual combination with his auburn hair.

Who cares what the he looks like? Why’s he here?

“What do you want?” My voice was like gravel. I guess no sleep and booze wasn’t great for the vocal cords.

“I just moved in to the apartment next to yours.” He pointed to the immediate right of my home. “They were supposed to turn on the power but it isn’t working.”

I stared at him wondering why this was my problem. I had my own difficulties. Protect and serve was not foremost in my heart at the moment.

He laughed nervously when I stayed quiet. “I was wondering…” He swallowed. “You know… like… maybe I could use your phone and call somebody?” A blue jay squawked in the wisteria vines above his head and he jumped.

I smirked.

He looked embarrassed, his cheeks flushed. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to spaz out but I don’t like birds,” He squinted upward. “They creep me out.”

For whatever reason his quirkiness made me curious. “Why?”

“They’re so fluttery. You never know what they’re going to do.” He scanned the shrubs suspiciously.

“I think you’re safe.” I’m sure I found him more amusing than usual because I was drunk. But I still didn’t want to invite him in. “Don’t you have a cell phone?” Everyone had a cell these days, right?

He sighed. “The battery’s dead. I was going to charge it when I finished moving my crap in, but they didn’t turn the God damned power on.”

His frustration was palpable and it hit the one soft spot I had left in my heart. I stepped back, unhooked the screen and opened it. “Fine. Come in.”

He slowly slipped through the door and brushed against me ever so slightly. “Sorry.”

“It’s fine.” I stepped back further, but not before noticing he smelled like lemons and cinnamon.

He turned to face me and his gaze fell to my bandaged shoulder and arm in the sling. “You hurt your arm?”

Flushing, I closed the door and didn’t acknowledge his question. “The phone’s in the kitchen.”

He nodded and headed toward the other room. “You’re apartment is the exact replica of mine, only reversed.”

I escaped back to my couch and lowered myself with a groan. It was time to take my pain meds, but I was stalling because I was inebriated. If I accidentally OD’d everyone would think I’d done it on purpose. I’d been a little depressed lately and not able to hide it.

He sounded agitated as he talked on the phone. I tried not to listen in, but I noticed he liberally sprinkled his conversation with curse words. After about fifteen minutes he came into the room looking flustered. “The power won’t be turned on until tomorrow.” His eyes were wide. “They fucked up and it’s my problem?”

I frowned. “Don’t they just flip a switch or something down at the office?”

“I’m not sure how they do it. All I know is the food in my fridge is going to spoil.” He surprised me when he sat in the chair across from me instead of leaving.

“Hmm.”

“I should sue them.” He chewed his lip. “Corporate America is out of control. How the hell do you just not turn on a person’s electricity? I really should take them to court.”

“Good luck with that.”

He pointed a slender finger at me. “And that is why they run rampant over us: that lackadaisical attitude.”

“I’m not lackadaisical.” I leaned toward him. “I’m realistic.”

“If you say so.”

I ignored his sarcastic tone. “Tomorrow they’ll have turned on your power, and you’ll have forgotten all about this inconvenience.”

He grinned and it lit his face. “You’re probably right. Besides I have plenty to do organizing my apartment. I don’t have time to fight Goliath.”

I studied his angular features. He was actually very attractive in an unusual sort of way; full lips, long lashes. Why the hell was I noticing this? “Well, don’t let me keep you.”

I expected him to leave. I wanted him to leave. But he sat there staring at me. His gaze took in the bottle of booze and empty glass on my table. “What happened to your arm?” His tone was hesitant.

I narrowed my gaze. “None of your business.”

“That’s not very neighborly.” He continued to study me intently. “What do you do for a living?”

“Also none of your business.” People always acted weird the minute they found out I was a cop. They seemed to think I could sense if they’d ever broken any laws.

Instead of looking insulted he crossed his legs and bobbed his foot up and down staring at me some more. “Can I guess?”

“What?” I frowned.

“Since you won’t tell me, how about I try and guess what your job is?”

“Why?”

He shrugged gazing around my apartment and taking in the Spartan décor. “Because it might be fun.”

“For who?”

“Me.” He grinned and I was surprised to feel an odd fluttery response to his dimples.

I was confused by my reaction to him. He really wasn’t my type at all. I preferred alpha males like myself. It had to be the booze. “Seems like a waste of time.” My tone was purposely flat.

“I’ve got all day.” He smiled pleasantly.

“Don’t you have moving stuff to take care of?”

He narrowed his gaze. “Stop trying to change the subject. Can I try and guess your job?”

“Go for it.” I figured he’d get it wrong and be on his merry way soon enough.

“Yeah?” He arched one brow. “Cool.” He rubbed his hands together scanning the area. “Let’s see… you’re definitely not an interior decorator.”

“Nope.”

He stood and began to wander the small room, fingering the few photos I had on the fireplace mantel. He pulled a pair of reading glasses from his pocket and he slipped them on. “Is this your family?” He held out a photo of me, my dad and brother. They were both in uniform, but I wasn’t.

I nodded.

“I can see a family resemblance. You’re all very macho.” He emphasized the last word.

Flushing I shook my head. “No.”

“The two dudes in uniform are.” He glanced at me. “Cops are macho. It’s not up for debate.” He set the photo down and continued examining my living room. There wasn’t much to see really. I had a medium sized TV on a side table, no art on the walls and the shabby blinds were the ones that came with the place. “Can I see your bedroom?”

The fuck? “No.”

He held up his hands as if surrendering. “Don’t bite my head off.”

“It won’t help your detective work any to see my bedroom. I have even less stuff in there.”

“Less?” He raised his brows. “What’s in there a coffin? Are you a vampire?”

Against my will my lips twitched. “Would I have opened the door on a sunny day like this if I were?”

“Good point.” He smiled and wandered back into the kitchen. I could hear him opening and closing cupboards. “You don’t have any food in here.”

“I hate to cook.”

“Really?” He poked his head around the corner. “I love to cook.”

“I have Dominos on speed dial.” I leaned back against the cushions with a sigh.

He came back into the room and stood over me with his hands on his hips. “That’s just sad.”

I frowned. “Pizza is food.”

He snorted. “Right.” He pulled off his glasses and slipped them into his pocket while repeating his earlier question. “What happened to your arm?”

I scowled. “I already told you, none of your business.” I avoided his piercing gaze.

He shifted as if impatient. But when he spoke he’d changed the subject. “It just occurred to me that I have a fridge full of spoiling food, and you have none. How about I cook you dinner?”

I’m sure my expression was horrified. I just wanted to be left alone. “Why?”

He shrugged. “As a thank you for letting me use your phone. Plus, I don’t want all that food to go to waste.”

“No. I don’t need a thank you, and I don’t want you to make me dinner.” I ignored the fact that my stomach growled at the idea of a home cooked meal. “I can take care of myself.”

He snapped his fingers. “I have a great idea; if I guess your occupation I get to make dinner for you.” He sounded excited at the prospect. I couldn’t understand why.

“Jesus, you’re pushy.”

“Is that as a yes?”

“Why do you want to cook for a complete stranger?” I frowned.

He sighed. “Well, as I told you I love to whip up delicious concoctions, plus I don’t relish the idea of spending all evening in a dark apartment with no power.”

Something about his vulnerable demeanor got through to me and I relented. “Fine. If you’re right about my job you can cook me a meal.” He’d probably get my occupation wrong anyway.

He looked pleased. “I just have a few more questions before I take my guess.” He tapped his stubbly chin. “Would you say you’ve always been this guarded, or is it because of your injury?”

“Maybe it’s because I like my privacy. Did you ever think of that?”

“I don’t believe that’s why at all.”

“Well, you’re the expert.”

He bit his lower lip and his gaze ran over my body. “You have a good build.” His strangely personal observation came out of nowhere.

“Okay, now this is just getting weird. You should go.” I struggled to my feet. I was at least a couple of inches taller than him, and far more buff. But he didn’t shrink from me, he instead grinned.

“I’m not hitting on you. I’m still investigating silly.” He shook his head and moved toward the door. “Do you have a side business in addition to your regular job?”

“Do I what?”

“You know, do you have like a pool cleaning service on the side or anything?”

“No.”

“All right. I think I’ve got it.” With his hand on the door he hesitated. “How does seven sound?”

I frowned. “For what?”

“Dinner.”

“You didn’t guess my job.” I moved closer to him, wondering if maybe he had a screw loose. Was he actually my neighbor, or had I let a crazy homeless nut into my house by mistake?

He laughed. “Oh, yeah. I forgot to tell you my guess.” He pointed to his head. “It’s in here and I thought I said it out loud.”

I scratched my head. “Are you okay? Is there someone I can call for you?”

His gaze softened. “You have a strong sense of duty. Even though you feel like shit you’re concerned for me.” He sighed. “Based on your independent spirt, your macho vibe and your responsible nature you must make a wonderful cop.”

I took a step back in shock. “What?”

“You’re a cop right?” He laughed. “It was either that or a fireman. But they all have side businesses and you said you didn’t. So you have to be a cop.”

Speechless, I simply stared at him amazed.

“Do you mind if I prepare the dinner over here? It might be a little difficult at my place with no power.” He cocked one brow.

I shook my head. “You don’t have to make me dinner.”

“But I really want to.” He squeezed my good shoulder and warm tingles rippled through my arm. He started to leave but then stopped. “My name’s Berlin, by the way.”

I stared at him in confusion and then I said slowly, “I’m Matt.”

“You’re not a vegetarian, are you Matt?”

“No.”

“Any food allergies I should know about? Everybody I know is gluten intolerant these days so I have to ask.”

“I eat wheat.” I ran a hand across the back of my neck.

“In that case, I’ll see you at seven sharp.” He winked and left.

Once he was gone I closed the door and leaned against it wondering what the hell had just happened.

AMAZON

ARe

KOBO

SEXY ANDROID M/M ROMANCE IS OUT!

I had an idea for a new Android M/M series called Arousing Androids. The first book in the series is Sloot and Eric’s story. Sloot is an android searching for somewhere he can call home, but being a sex bot, most of his owners aren’t interested in forever. 

Blurb:

I’d held out opening my gift as long as I could. But, after all, I’m only human.

Even if he isn’t.

Sabrina had a wicked sense of humor sending me this XP30 for my birthday. For a full week I just walked past the shipping crate, with the company name Arousing Androids stamped on, and pretended it wasn’t there. It might have worked too, except for the little bell that sounded every few days reminding me he needed to be activated.

Sabrina felt sorry for me because I’d ended things with my boyfriend Trae. A while ago, actually. We’d been fighting non-stop, and we’d finally decided being together was more painful than splitting. He’d packed his skinny jeans, and moved out, leaving me with a big empty loft to myself. That was twelve months ago, and I’d made no move to get back out on the social scene.

Loneliness, I could deal with. Or at least I thought so. It was the lack of sex that was getting to me. Sabrina knew I had zero interest in trolling bars for one-night stands, and I didn’t have the stomach for a relationship again. I was nowhere near ready for that.

But eventually my curiosity got the best of me, and I pulled the card off the big box and read the message from Sabrina again: Eric, dude. It’s been a year. You need to get laid. You’re welcome, Sabrina.

I tapped my chin, staring at the wooden box. It was eerily silent inside that monstrosity of a crate. Oh, what the hell. Just open the damn thing. I tugged at the big red bow that said Pull Here. When I yanked, the side of the crate snapped open, still attached to the bow. There was a bunch of bubble wrap that I assumed was there to protect my new friend. The packing materials tumbled to the floor, and that left one arm exposed.

It was a nice looking arm. Muscular, tanned with a light smattering of fine dark hairs. If I hadn’t known better I would have thought it was a human arm. But of course it wasn’t. The box contained an anatomically correct android, made for the sole purpose of being a sexual companion to humans. I continued to uncover him—it—whatever it was, and eventually had the thing more or less visible.

He was taller than me, dark hair and faint stubble on his angular jaw. That was a nice humanizing touch, giving him a five o clock shadow. His mouth was full, sexy, and his body was perfect. Not an ounce of fake fat anywhere. I’ll be honest; my cock stirred just looking at him. Fuck. It really had been too long when a manufactured piece of plastic could give me a woodie. I read the instructions and found a tiny flat pink circle under his arm. That was where I was supposed to attach the small charging disk that would activate him.

I stood for a good ten minutes, marveling at modern science, and sweating under my armpits while weighing whether or not this was a good idea. If I juiced the guy up I’d probably be stuck with him forever. It might be too hard to reject the poor thing once it started talking. Taking in his narrow hips and rippled abs, I couldn’t help but wonder what was under the smooth jean material that covered his crotch.

I swallowed hard, thinking about all the stories I’d heard about what exceptional lovers the XP30s were. I wiped my forehead and took a deep breath. Then I pressed the charging disk to the spot under his arm and stepped back. Nothing happened at first, and then I heard a faint buzzing sound and his eyes opened.

They were a brilliant green, sort of like that iridescent moss you sometimes find at night in swamps. He blinked a few times, and then met my gaze, which sent an odd thrill down my spine.

“I hope you don’t mind, but I’ve been in there a while and I need to pee.” His voice was husky, and the sound of it startled me.

“Oh, yes. Of course.” I moved aside hurriedly.

He grinned and it was beautiful, and warm. He even had dimples. That flash of perfection was not at all what I’d been expecting from a non-human smile. “I’m just teasing. I don’t actually urinate.”

My cheeks heated. “Oh, you’re one of those funny robots.”

First he nodded and then he frowned. “We prefer the term android. Robot seems so cold and unfriendly.” A little smile played around his mouth. “XP30s are very friendly.”

“Hmmm.” I crossed my arms.

Cocking his head, he held out his hand. “I’m Sloot. It’s a weird name, I know. It’s made up of a combination of the letters from the compounds used to build me. They give us names because they think it makes us seem more humanlike.”

“But you aren’t human.” I wasn’t sure why I felt the need to say that. He felt human. His flesh was heated and firm as it gripped mine.

“We have most of the good qualities.”

Although I wasn’t positive I agreed with him, I didn’t really want to argue with a robot. “Can I get you anything?” I knew it was an odd thing to ask, but I wasn’t sure how to act around him.

“I wouldn’t mind if you showed me where your bedroom is.” He winked.

“Oh.” I flushed.

He tilted his head again, and his unusual green gaze was pinned intently on my face. “Aren’t you familiar with XP30s skills?” He arched one smooth eyebrow.

“Vaguely. I know you’re a sex bot. But I’m afraid I’m not up on my detailed robot knowledge. I’ve never had an android before.” Of course I was impressed with the advances made in the field of robotics, but I hadn’t felt the urge to own an android.

“Let’s see, you’re probably familiar with rescue bots, and worker bots. But I’m a different class. XP30s are designed solely for the sexual enjoyment of humans.” He leaned toward me when he said that, as if we were sharing a dirty secret.

“Right. I’ve heard some good things about you…XP30s, I mean.” It would have been hard for this moment to be more awkward.

He smiled politely. “We do what we can to please.”

My cheeks felt warm. “Sounds good.”

Sounds good? When had I become a mumbling idiot?

“You’re cute.”

“No. Not…not really,” I stammered.

“Would you want to have sex now?” He used the same tone he might have if he was offering to take my coat.

Inhaling sharply I took a step back. “God, no. I…I don’t even know you.”

He laughed, and then he realized I was serious. “No one has ever said that to me before. Give me a moment while I access the situation.” He touched his index finger to his temple and closed his eyes.

“I’m not like that. I don’t just have sex with people…or robots… I just met.” Beads of sweat gathered on my upper lip, and my heart was beating quickly.

“Please hold while I continue to access the situation.”

“Um, you know what?” I ran my hand over my head, feeling flustered. “This was a mistake. I should never have activated you.”

His eyes flew open and for the first time his cool composure slipped. He held out his hand and grimaced. “Don’t switch me off,” he pleaded. “You’re not responding as expected.”

“This is just too weird.”

I’d always pictured androids as emotionless, but he was practically wringing his hands with worry. “I apologize profusely. Most men are waiting naked, with full on erections when I exit the box.”

Perching on the arm of the nearest chair, I watched him warily. “I’m not like that.”

“Yes. I see that now.”

“We literally just met.”

“It doesn’t usually matter. As I said most men…put me to work…um, right away.” He moved closer. “I should have been paying better attention to your signals. I’m really so sorry.”

I squinted at him. “Do you actually mean to tell me guys jump your bones the second they unwrap you?”

He grimaced. “One man actually fucked me when I was still inside the crate.”

My face contorted with disbelief. “That’s disgusting.”

Dropping his gaze to the ground he said softly, “It was rather unexpected.”

I crossed my arms, freaked out by the whole situation. This was so far out of my comfort zone I wasn’t sure what to do. “I don’t think this is for me.” I swallowed hard. “It’s nothing personal, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to return you.”

Wincing, he glanced back toward the crate, and his mouth drooped. “Please don’t make me go back in there.” He shivered. “Please.”

Amazon:

Evernight Publishing

ARe

COP AND THE GEEK BOOK 2 CAME OUT!

The sequel to the first Cop and the Geek book was released!

Here’s a link to the books:

EXCERPT FOR COP AND THE GEEK BOOK 2

 

“Paint ball?” I asked horrified. “That’s your big surprise?”

“It’ll be fun,” Scott said, braking to avoid running over an unobservant pedestrian blabbering away on her phone. “There will be four of us on each team so it won’t be too out of control.”

“Shit.” Did he not know I wasn’t the most athletic guy in the world? I mean I wasn’t a complete couch potato type, but I also wasn’t an Olympian. Playing League of Legends online didn’t exactly qualify me as sporty. “I’ll be on your team, right?”

He grinned, his dimples deep in his cheeks. “Of course.”

“Shit,” I repeated as I slid down in my seat and tried to suppress the anxiety bubbling in my gut.

He looked over at me and frowned. “Are you mad?”

I shook my head. “Oh, no, no. I’m not mad.” Terrified would be more accurate. Would the fact that I rode my bike a lot make any difference in my stamina? Maybe I wouldn’t completely embarrass myself by being an out of shape loser. I knew Scott and his macho cop buddies would no doubt be in way better physical condition than me.

He squeezed my neck affectionately. “I just thought it might be a less stressful way to meet my work friends.”

Less stressful for who? Them?

“I would have preferred large amounts of booze to be involved when I was first introduced to them.”

“Oh, there will be after we kick the other team’s ass. I hoped it could be a nice, informal way to break the ice.”

“It’s just…my favorite little book store is having a sale today. I was hoping to pick up a first edition of The Hobbit that I’ve had my eye on.” I nibbled at my cuticle.

“Come on, James. You have to meet my friends sometime.”

I stared glumly out the window at the shops and trendy coffeehouses we passed. Couples sat at tables with colorful umbrellas, and others walked hand in hand enjoying their lazy Saturday together. I’d give anything to go inhale a fresh butter croissant and huge cappuccino instead of playing paintball.

I’d been seeing Scott for a month now and everything was going great, especially considering how lame I was at relationships. We had a chemistry that could set the sheets on fire, and I was even really fond of his three-year-old son, Troy. But I’d stalled every time he tried to get me together with his friends from work. I didn’t care for cops since my old man had been one. Well, he’d been a cop and a colossal asshole so that might have colored my opinion of cops just a bit. I guess Scott had decided I’d put him off long enough and so he’d engineered this ‘surprise’ for me. Yay.

“I wish you’d warned me.” I glanced down at my skinny jeans and high top sneakers.

“You might have come up with an excuse again.” He gave me a pointed look.

I didn’t argue because he was right. I’d have definitely pulled a work meeting or maybe a great aunt’s funeral out of the air just to avoid this moment. I gestured toward my obviously inappropriate footwear. “I don’t have the right shoes.”

“Nice try.” He laughed and reached carefully behind my seat, while still keeping his focus on the road. “I bought you a pair of boots.”

“What? You bought me shoes?”

“Yep.”

“How do you know they’ll fit me?” I grumbled, taking the box from him and lifting the lid.

Cocking one smooth brow he said, “I’m a cop. I have amazing investigative skills.”

“What did you do? Hire a private investigator to figure out my shoe size?” I smirked.

“I went one better. I looked in your closet while you were in the shower.” He looked very pleased with himself.

I pulled out one boot and studied the brown leather. “These look expensive.”

“Not really. Besides I don’t want you running around in cheap boots that hurt your feet.” He sounded sincere and I couldn’t help but smile.

“You’re always so considerate.” My chest warmed at his kindness. “I don’t know why you like me.” That kind of popped out. I hadn’t actually meant to say that out loud. I mean I really did wonder, but it wasn’t my style to just spill my guts.

He shook his head and laughed. “You always say stuff like that and I don’t get it. You’re amazing.”

My cheeks warmed. “Hardly.”

The smoldering look he sent me had my stomach jangling. “I think you are.”

I cleared my throat and switched topics, because the last thing I needed was a hard on when I arrived to meet his friends. “So is Jack going to be there?” Jack was Scott’s partner and from the way Scott talked about him the two of them were pretty tight. I wasn’t really a jealous type of guy, but the way Scott said Jack’s name always kind of bugged me. There was a definite affection there.

“Of course.”

“Why ‘of course’?” I asked fiddling with the visor.

He was silent for a moment as he concentrated on getting on the freeway. “Because he’s my partner and you’re my boyfriend. Not counting Troy and Marie, you two are the closest people to me.”

There he went again just sharing his feelings as if that was the most normal thing. Well, it is for everyone but you, dummy.

“Let’s say Jack doesn’t like me?” I asked, turning to watch his reaction. “What would happen then?” I didn’t share with him my suspicion he would probably pick Jack over me. He’d known Jack longer. They shared a bond of trust our new relationship hadn’t had the time to create.

Scott’s jaw tensed. “I’m not worried.”

That makes one of us.

THE COP AND THE GEEK

My latest from Evernight Publishing is out! It’s a story about a computer geek who runs into a little trouble and the sexy cop who helps him out.

I think an excerpt might be in order:

“Officer, how many times do I have to tell you he hit me first?” I leaned forward, speaking through the mesh that separated me from the cop in the front seat. The cuffs were cutting into my wrists and I was nauseated with worry.

The cop’s honey brown gaze settled on me in the rear view mirror. He had nice eyes, I’d noticed that earlier. They seemed kind which struck me as odd considering he was a cop. “Then why does he have a bloody nose and you don’t have a scratch on you, sir?”

I glanced out the window at the tattooed thug sitting on the sidewalk. The guy held a tissue dotted with red spots up to his swollen nose. “I’m a purple belt in Taekwondo. Besides, he wasn’t really much of a challenge.”

The cop gave a little laugh. “Is that because you’re such a tough guy?”

I scowled. “No. It’s because he was drunk off his ass.” No one would ever mistake me for a he-man that was for sure. I was more on the scrawny side.

“And you’re sober?”

Lifting my chin, I sighed. “I had one Kahlua and cream. If you know anything about booze you must know those aren’t very strong.” And if you’re the kind of cop my old man was, you’ll know lots about booze. “Also, I’ve always been able to metabolize my alcohol very efficiently.”

“Fascinating,” Officer Brown murmured, punching things into his onboard computer.

“I know you’re being sarcastic but I actually do find it interesting.”

He shook his head. “What are you, a science geek?”

“Software geek by day, but I’m a science geek in my free time. And because of that I happen to know why I can hold my liquor.”

He snorted. “Okay, I’ll bite. Why?”

Being the nerd I am I didn’t even hesitate to respond. “Alcohol metabolism is controlled by genetic factors. There are variations in in the enzymes that break down alcohol in the body. That’s why some people can drink a ton and not get as blitzed as someone who drinks one drink.”

“Genetics huh? So you’ve essentially been bred to be a lush?” Officer Brown’s cheek curved in a smile. “That is fascinating.”

“You’re mocking me again.”

“Maybe a little.”

“I’m not making it up. It’s science.”

“I’m Irish, Scottish, French and Italian. What would your science have to say about that genetic combination?”

“Odds are you have extremely efficient alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes.”

“That’s a mouthful.”

My chest tightened at the sight of the cop’s pretty, white smile. I wasn’t usually into macho guys, but there was something different about Officer Brown. “Try saying it three times fast.”

He grunted in response.

“Am I going to jail?” I figured I should just come right out and ask.

“I haven’t decided.”

I studied the smooth nape of the officer’s neck and the silky blond locks that poked out from under his hat. A strange little buzzing started up in my stomach as I met his gaze in the mirror again. “Is the other guy going to jail?” I asked softly.

“Oh, yeah. I’ve arrested him for brawling at least three times already this year.” He swiveled in his seat. “You don’t look like the kind who’s usually involved in something like this.”

The intensity of his gaze had my pulse speeding up. “Well, he deserved that fist in the face.”

Officer Brown studied me. “And you say he hit you first?”

“Yes. He punched my shoulder.” Even though my hands were cuffed in front of me, I managed to rub the spot where the jerk had slammed me.

“Let me see.”

“What?” I asked breathlessly.

Officer Brown rolled his eyes. “It’s on your shoulder, right? I’m not asking you to drop your pants.”

“I know, but still.” For some reason the idea of opening my shirt in front of him had my stomach tumbling. He was attractive and I felt insecure. I knew it wasn’t like he wanted to see me without my shirt, but I still felt embarrassed. I had an okay build for a nerdy type, but I was a little on the thin side right now. He’s looking for evidence, not trying to date you.

“Mr…” he glanced at my license that was balanced on his laptop. “O’Brien, I’m not trying to make you uncomfortable. If you’d rather I can just have someone check you at the station?”

“Shit. So you are arresting me?”

“Well you did punch him.” He chewed his lip and then opened his door. “Let me go talk to Sam. He never misses anything that goes on in his bar.”

I watched Officer Brown walk gracefully around the front of his squad car toward the other cop. As he stood talking I had a great view of him. Seeing as I had nothing else to do I went ahead and took in every inch of the guy. He was tall, broad shoulders and his uniform fit him perfectly. He looked exactly like you want a cop to look; powerful, clean cut and intelligent. That familiar tingle started up in my gut again. He turned to look when the bleeding thug pointed in my direction, and I looked away quickly.

When I glanced up again after a few minutes Officer Brown wasn’t anywhere in sight. I assumed he’d gone inside the bar. Glancing around his vehicle I noticed it was immaculate. Not even a speck of dirt on the carpet or the console up front. He was probably one of those regimented ex-military types that seemed drawn to police work. I noticed he had a couple of photographs tucked in his visor. The one in front was of a blond child and another tucked behind was of a good looking, dark haired man holding the same blond kid. The guy was laughing toward someone off camera, and I wondered if it was Officer Brown who was making him look so happy. It was hard to tell from just meeting Brown if he was into girls or guys, but the glint in the eye of the man in the picture had a flirtatious sparkle.

There was a sharp rap on the window and, startled, I turned to see who it was. The door opened and Officer Brown took my elbow and helped me out of the car. A Hispanic guy with a white streak running down the center of his jet black hair stood watching me with his hands in his pockets.

“Yeah, that’s the kid,” the older man announced, nodding like one of those bobbing head statues in the rear window of a car.

My stomach dipped and I looked to Officer Brown for clarification. The cop twisted his lips and just stared at me. It was late evening and the butter yellow sun was sinking behind the buildings. The breeze was chilly, and when a little shiver ran through my body Officer Brown broke his silence.

“Sam agrees with your version of events.”

“He does?” My voice went up an octave like he’d told me he was giving me a free puppy. I was a little embarrassed at how excited I’d sounded, so I cleared my throat and spoke in a deeper tone. “That’s awesome.”

“You seem surprised.” Officer Brown’s lips twitched.

“Yeah, you’re starting to make me think I got it wrong.” Sam grinned and I noticed he had a golden front tooth. “I heard the guy ragging on you. He’s an asshole to everyone but he especially hates—” Sam shrugged and looked like he didn’t want to continue.

I swallowed and shifted nervously. “Gingers?”

Sam snorted as he took in my auburn hair. “Yeah, that too.” He turned to Officer Brown. “He was calling the kid names like faggot, and fudge packer. You know, the usual shit his ignorant type comes up with.” Sam turned to me. “Sorry kid, I’m just trying to make a point. I don’t agree with those terms.”

My face felt like a red neon sign. “It’s okay. I get it.”

Officer Brown cleared his throat. “And then he hit you?” His brown eyes were dark in the dimming light.

I nodded. “When he got up in my face I told him to fuck off, then he punched my shoulder. I think he was aiming for my face, but he was so drunk he missed.”

“Yep. That’s how it happened.” Sam agreed.

“Okay.” Officer Brown called to the other cop who was babysitting the thug, “Go ahead and book him.” Then he turned to me. “Since you don’t have any priors I think you’re off the hook Mr. O’Brien.”

Relief washed through me and I slumped. “Oh, thank God.”

Sam chuckled and patted my shoulder. “You’re lucky you got Officer Brown on this call. Most of the other cops would have taken you both in and asked questions later.” He shook Brown’s hand and ambled off toward his bar.

Officer Brown leaned behind me and held my wrists. His warm fingers felt amazing in the cold evening air, and my flesh tingled at his touch. He wiggled the key in the lock and the cuffs sprang open. I rubbed my sore skin and met his curious gaze.

“This doesn’t look like your kind of place.” He gestured toward Sam’s Bar. “Do you live near here or something?”

“No.” I pointed toward Al’s Automotive Repair across the street. “My piece of crap car’s been giving me trouble and someone recommended that place. When they told me it was going to be over three hours I came over here.”

He frowned. “You came to a bar to wait for your car to get fixed?”

I flushed. “I had one drink. I didn’t think one weak ass beverage in three hours would be a problem.”

“Still. It seems like an odd choice.”

“It was that or sit in the waiting room the entire time. The guy behind the counter made me uncomfortable.”

“In what way?”

I shrugged. “He was staring a lot and asking personal questions.”

“Why didn’t you call a friend or family member to come give you a ride home?” Officer Brown had a line between his brows. It was obvious he couldn’t conceive of a world where there weren’t people waiting in the wings to help you when you needed them.

“I don’t have any family in the area, and most of my friends ride the bus.” In fact I was the one usually giving them a lift places.

He looked at his watch. “When will your car be ready?”

I gave a glum look toward the dark repair shop. “My guess is tomorrow. They’re closed now.”

Brown snapped his head toward Al’s Automotive. “What? I thought you were waiting for your car?”

“I was. I’d already waited the three hours at Sam’s and was about to walk over and see if my hunk of junk was finished when tattoo guy stopped me.” I waved my hands toward the bar and the cop cars. “They must have closed up shop while all the drama was taking place.”

Officer Brown crossed his arms in front of his broad chest and studied me in silence. A female voice kept making announcements from the little radio attached to his shoulder, but I guess it wasn’t for him because he ignored it.

“This isn’t a good neighborhood.” Officer Brown spoke softly.

I sighed. “Yeah. I’m aware.”

“How are you getting home?” He seemed genuinely concerned.

“There’s a bus stop across the street.”

He frowned. “You missed the last bus an hour ago.” He gnawed the side of his pretty lower lip.

“Shit.” I ran a hand over my hair wondering what the hell I was going to do now. My bank account was pretty sad at the moment and the estimate for the car had basically wiped out anything I had in there anyway. Taxis weren’t cheap, but I figured I really had no choice. I would have to use what little room I had left on my credit card. It was either take a cab home, or sleep in the juniper bushes out front of Al’s Automotive. “I’ll call a taxi.”

“Where do you live?”

I wasn’t sure why he wanted to know that, but I answered anyway. “To the west, more toward Glendale.”

“So maybe forty-five minutes away?” He looked like he was calculating something in his head.

“Yeah.” I pulled my cell from my pocket glancing at the littered streets, and the graffiti sprayed on the walls. “Home isn’t exactly Beverly Hills but it definitely beats this place.”

“That’s an expensive cab ride. It could run you over a hundred bucks.”

I rubbed my face and gave a dry laugh. “Yeah, I know. But I sure as hell ain’t walking.”

He exhaled and gestured toward his squad car. “I’ll take you home.”

I grimaced, surprise radiating through me. “What? No, you don’t have to do that. I’ll be fine.” God, had I been giving off pathetic vibes or something? “I’m twenty-six years old, and more than capable of getting home.”

He frowned. “I know that.”

“Well, it’s a nice gesture and all, but I’d rather call a cab.” I didn’t know him at all and I couldn’t understand why he was offering to help me. Did he want something in return?

His mouth turned down at the corners in disapproval. “You’d rather call a cab? You’d rather pay over a hundred dollars just to get home instead of riding with me?” He pretended to sniff his underarm. “Is there something you’d like to tell me?”

My cheeks warmed and I avoided his confused gaze. “You’re a cop, not a taxi driver. You must have way more important things to do than cart my ass around town.”

“This was the last call of my shift. I’m not wasting taxpayer’s money if that’s what’s worrying you.” He shrugged. “The station’s five minutes from here. I can drop off my patrol car and run you home easily.”

I looked at the time on my phone to distract myself from his amiable gaze. The idea of paying over a hundred bucks just to get home did make me sick to my stomach. But I couldn’t figure out what his angle was and it made me wary. I mean, everybody has an angle.

“You’re not the first person I’ve given a ride to.” He laughed. “I don’t make a habit of it. But every now and then I run across someone like you. You seem like a nice guy who’s just having a rough day. I don’t see anything wrong with helping someone out. That’s why I became a cop after all.”

I didn’t share with him my opinion of most cops. He didn’t need to know I believed the majority of men who joined the force were power hungry bullies. Arrogant assholes like my dad. Officer Brown did seem different from the typical cop, but it was hard not to feel he must have ulterior motives for helping me. I’d grown up on stories of how my dad would use people who owed him. I wasn’t sure what to make of Officer Brown.

“You seem a little too good to be true. What’s in it for you?”

“I don’t understand.”

“What do you get out of giving me a ride?” I had to admit he looked surprised at my questions but that didn’t really mean anything in the long run. He could just be a good actor.

“Seriously?”

“I’m being completely serious. Why would you go out of your way like this for a total stranger?” I flushed under his irritated stare, and I began to feel stupid for being so suspicious.

He opened his mouth as if to speak and then shook his head and moved gracefully around the car to the driver’s side. “Have a good evening, Mr. O’Brien. I hope you get home safely.”

It was clear he was about to drive off and my stomach churned at the idea of being left here alone suddenly. It was almost dark and I glanced around at the homeless guy lying near the wall, and the empty beer bottles and cigarette butts on the sidewalk. “Wait.”

He hesitated and stared at me across the top of his vehicle.

“Sorry. I don’t mean to be insulting. I’m just trying to understand your reason for being so nice to me,” I managed to say, glancing around anxiously at the shabby buildings. “Please don’t leave me here.”

His hard expression softened slightly. “I’m not looking for money or a blowjob, or whatever it is that you’ve dreamed up in that head of yours.”

“Okay.” I looked away embarrassed. I believed him. If I really thought about it he didn’t need to drive an hour out of his way to get something. If he was a crooked cop there would be tons of guys he could hit up for a favor locally.

“The offer still stands but you’ll need to get your ass in the seat fast before I change my mind.” He climbed in his car as he spoke.

I slipped into the back of his unit watching him nervously through the screen that separated the two areas. He started the engine without speaking to me, and I slumped against the seat feeling humbled and relieved to be on my way home.

RAINBOW BLOG HOP EXTRAVAGANZA!

Love is inspiring! It’s so interesting how we meet people and that one person is the one you attach to. It’s impossible to even explain sometimes why one person just does it for you, and another person doesn’t. It isn’t even the most perfect person in the bunch that get’s the guy necessarily!

 

I have a little question for you. The answer that I like best has a free e-book from my backlist coming their way! Be sure to leave your answer in the comment section below, and DON’T FORGET YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS!

WHAT EQUALS REAL LOVE TO YOU?

 

KEEP HOPPING! Click on the link below for some more fun prizes!

http://dravenstjames.wordpress.com/team-taste-the-rainbow-blog-hop/

http://catblaine.com

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cat-Blaine/e/B00J23ZK10/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Unleash your naughty side with Evernight’s Executive Assistant anthology… These sizzling hot stories dare to explore the taboo world of office romance. From X-rated job interviews, controlling Doms, to the unprofessional use of office furniture—these twelves stories have it all. Our bestselling authors are determined to make you squirm. You may never see the office the same way again! Authors: Doris O’Connor, Leteisha Newton, S.J. Maylee Michelle Graham, Allyson Young, Lila Shaw Elodie Parkes, Chacelyn Pierce, Jean Maxwell Beth D. Carter, Jezebel Jorge Michelle Rhys Manlove Edition Unleash your naughty side with Evernight’s Executive Assistant: Manlove Edition anthology… These sizzling hot stories dare to explore the taboo world of office romance. From X-rated job interviews, controlling Doms, to the unprofessional use of office furniture—these seven stories have it all. Our bestselling authors are determined to make you squirm. You may never see the office the same way again! Authors: Cat Blaine, JC Holly, Xondra Day Nicola Cameron, Noelle Keaton Pelaam, Nikka Michaels Buy Links: Giveaway: $10 Evernight Gift Card Rafflecopter: a Rafflecopter giveaway

EXCERPT FROM THE OFFICE BOY:

Alec pushed his glasses up onto the bridge of his nose. That was better. Now he could see Dexter Allen clearly. His heart sped up at the sight of the older man. Dexter was so perfect with his silky black hair brushing his crisp white collar. He had muscular shoulders straining his fitted shirt, and Alec allowed his gaze to run over the man’s narrow waist, and hips. The lusty tour ended when it froze on Dexter’s crotch. Licking his lips, a warm flush wafted through Alec as he fantasized about Dexter’s smooth flesh hidden under the material of his clothing. What would it feel like under his hands? Would Dexter have fine black hairs dusting his body? Would he be ticklish if Alec licked a trail from his abs to his cock?

But there was one little problem with Alec’s obsession toward his boss: Dexter Allen didn’t know Alec existed. And that was depressing as hell.

“Alec, wake up.” Stella was standing over him glaring. Her lipstick was way too bright for her skin tone, and it gave her a clownish appearance. She was chubby, and the tight green sweater she was wearing looked as if the buttons were about to pop off from the strain of holding her huge chest in.

“Sorry,” Alec mumbled. She wasn’t his boss, but she sure acted like she thought she was.

“Mr. Allen needs these by tonight.” She dropped some files onto his desk with a loud thump. Then she pursed her lips and narrowed her gaze. “Why are you always watching Mr. Allen?”

Alec grimaced and didn’t answer. He instead stared at the pile, scrunching his face unhappily. “I’ll never get through all of those by five.”

“I hope for your sake you’re wrong,” she said ominously. “I hear there might be cutbacks on the horizon.”

Alec swallowed nervously. “Really?”

“That’s the word on the street. You’re also one of the newer guys so…” She made a throat cutting motion with her hand.

“Oh God.” Alec touched his neck hesitantly. “I hope not.”

“Good luck,” she said insincerely as she toddled away toward the break room.

Alec sighed and went back to staring at Dexter. It would be devastating to lose this job, not only financially but because he would miss being able to see Dexter every day. His boss was ten years older than him, but he found that sexy. Would Dexter be an excellent, experienced lover? Of course he would be. Alec bit his finger nail nervously. He hadn’t had many lovers. He wanted the expertise of an older man to show him how to be a better lover. Someone like Dexter would be perfect. But if he got fired his fantasy of Dexter would be ruined.

“Hey Glasses. What are you staring at?” Alec looked up into the bright blue eyes of Tam.

Tam worked in the kiosk downstairs in the lobby. He brought baked goods and coffee through the office daily. Alec looked forward to Tam dropping by each afternoon. Tam always smelled like cinnamon, and had the nicest smile too. Tam was another person Alec loved to fantasize about. Alec flared his nostrils and inhaled Tam’s delicious scent.

Alec noticed a little diamond stud in Tam’s earlobe, and he thought it was sexy as hell. He would love to nibble on Tam’s earlobe. “Is that new?”

Tam touched the little glistening stone. “Yeah, it was a gift.”

“Does it hurt when you do it?”

“God, I love it when you talk dirty.” Tam’s lips twitched as he held Alec’s gaze. “It gets me all hot and bothered when you talk about doing it.”

If you enjoy my style check out my other M/M books:
http://www.evernightpublishing.com/passionate-companions-by-cat-blaine/

My Most Recent

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/faking-it-by-cat-blaine/

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/the-dude-ranch-by-cat-blaine/

 

My newest from Evernight, The Dude Ranch, is out!

My latest M/M story The Dude Ranch is out today! Have any of you ever been to a dude ranch? Leave a comment and I’ll pick my favorite and send the winner a free e-book copy of The Dude Ranch.

I spent much of my youth around horses and ranches and I’ve always wanted to visit a dude ranch. I doubt my experience would be quite as rewarding as Tom’s, but it would still be fun!

 

FAKING IT By Cat Blaine

My second M/M book titled FAKING IT is out today! 

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/faking-it-by-cat-blaine/

Hart Vanter has been pretending his whole life. He’s the wealthy son of rich parents and on the surface his life should be perfect. But he’s hiding a secret. He’s gay and terrified to let anyone know. So he sleeps with women and does everything he can to keep the facade intact.

 When his regular bodyguard is promoted Josh Lang appears on the scene to take his place. Josh is self-assured, gorgeous and gay. And he seems to know Hart’s secret. Josh is there to protect Hart, but can he save Hart from himself?

EXCERPT FROM FAKING IT

His curious gaze met mine. “Do you have a dirty little secret?” his voice was velvety, and it sent little shock waves through me.

I could feel my cheeks warming and I dropped my gaze to my papers. “Doesn’t everyone?”

“Nah. I’m an open book.”

I snorted. “I’m not. And that’s the way I like it.” I buried my nose in my spreadsheets, hoping he’d drop it. I wasn’t going to come clean about myself to anyone, let alone a guy who could be gone in a week to his next assignment.

The rest of the hour long trip we were quiet. My gaze would occasionally meet his in the mirror and slide away awkwardly. I was trying to concentrate on my laptop, but I had trouble. My curiosity about him was seeping into my thoughts. What was it about his lifestyle that had his parent’s panties in a bunch?

We arrived at our destination and I was forced to put my curiosity on hold. We rode up in the elevator together and were greeted by Theo, the son of the CEO for Randall’s Brake Pads. He was about my age and height, but he was thicker and had short red hair and bright blue eyes. We’d always been friendly, in fact I’d taken him out for drinks on numerous occasions when in town. It had been less fun than it sounds like though, because when Theo drank he wanted pussy. And that pretty much meant, either I had to go along with it, or stand out like a sore, gay thumb.

“Hey, Hart.” He grabbed my hand in an exuberant shake. “Dad’s pretty pissed.” He grinned.

“Hence my timely arrival bearing hefty discounts, and gifts,” I said, as I held up a big bottle of aged whiskey. “We know we screwed up, and we want to make it right.”

“This should help.” He took the bottle and then looked curiously at Josh. “You’re new.”

“I am.”

“This is, Josh,” I said introducing them. “Frank got a promotion.”

“Oh, please. He was probably begging to get off your detail. Guarding you must be the most boring job in the state.” His smile softened his words.

I spent the next two hours there groveling and promising the moon. Theo’s father raked me over the coals for about a half hour, and then left me in his son’s capable hands. I personally reentered the next year’s orders to ensure everything would be correct. Josh sat patiently waiting for me to finish up. He didn’t seem antsy at all, which was a nice contrast from Frank’s impatient shifting in his chair.

“Okay, who’s ready to go get some drinks?” Theo asked, slapping his hands on his desk. A couple of the interns sitting in the room with us brightened visibly, apparently game, as they high fived each other and nodded.

This was going to be a long evening. I wanted nothing more than to go home and put my feet up. You couldn’t exactly call me the picture of the fun loving rich kid today. I resembled a senior citizen more. I was still wrestling with depression from the evening before, and in no mood to pretend I wasn’t who I was. God all I needed was a repeat performance of last night, as I struggled to hold an erection with some chick. I met Josh’s gaze and maybe the desperation I felt was showing, because his eyes narrowed as he studied me. He suddenly stepped forward and cleared his throat.

“Hey, boss. Did you forget about that thing you have this evening?” His dark earnest gaze met mine, and if I hadn’t known better, I’d have believed I had something to do this evening too. I hesitated only briefly before seizing on his offered lifeline.

“Oh shit, that’s right.” I grimaced and met Theo’s disappointed gaze. “It’s something my dad set up last month, and I don’t dare cancel. It took us six months to get the meeting.” Oh, God I was probably going to go to hell. The lies just seemed to be rolling off my tongue so easily.

“Maybe next time, then?” Theo said frowning as he shook my hand.

“Definitely.” I agreed.

Josh and I rode down in the big glass elevator in silence, and I waited until we were to the car before I grabbed his shoulder, squeezing him warmly. “Holy shit, thank you.”

His expression was odd for a split second before he gave in to an easy laugh. “No problem.”

“How did you know?” I asked, amazed I was happily getting to go home instead of out whoring on the town.

“I read people pretty well.” He dropped his gaze, and moved from my grasp to open my door for me. “I could tell you were tired.”

I was a little disappointed he’d moved away. I’d enjoyed the feel of his muscles under my hand. I climbed in the back and he got behind the wheel. “Holy crap, I owe you big time. Can I buy you dinner tonight?”

He squinted at me. “You don’t have to do that.”

“Believe me. I could kiss you right now I’m so happy.” I ran my hands over my face, partly because I was tired, and partly because I was a little embarrassed by what I’d just blurted out. I could kiss you either way actually, that’s the only thing that might make this night even better.

“Nah. You’re tired, that’s okay.” He responded as he deftly steered onto the highway.

“We have to eat and I don’t mean anything fancy. I know this little Italian place I love. It’s super quiet, and near home. What do you say?” I cajoled him. “Boss is buying.”

He laughed, and my heart twittered at the husky sound of it. “I do love Italian.”

“In fact, we can just go home and walk there. It’s that close.” I was suddenly in a happy mood. “That way you can have a little vino with your food.”

“Oh, I shouldn’t drink much on duty.” He frowned.

“Just have one glass. I’ll drink the rest.” I wiggled my brows. “I love me the red wine.”

He gave a heartfelt laugh, and my toes curled momentarily from the beautiful sound of it. What was going on with me? I barely knew the guy and I was in heaven because he was willing to have dinner with me? He works for you. Don’t forget that.

I knew I needed to be careful and not get too attached to him. But I was bursting with good feelings right now, and I needed that desperately. I’d been so down lately struggling with my little problem of being a huge fake. So I stared out at the purple dusk, and the charming little twinkling white and golden lights of the city we were leaving. I closed my eyes, listening to the hum of the engine and I allowed myself to enjoy this moment. This quiet, peaceful snippet in time where I could convince myself that there might be a happy future for me someday, even as a little voice in my head whispered; You’re a phony and a fake and you’ll be found out eventually.

It’s out!

Just wanted to say I’m so excited my first release with Evernight Publishing is live! It’s a little story about a vampire who is raised to be a courtesan to humans. And he is less than thrilled with that fact. But as luck would have it, the human who claims him is gorgeous and kind. It’s a sweet, sexy little love story for when you just want a quick read. Let me know what you think!

http://www.evernightpublishing.com/passionate-companions-by-cat-blaine/