Monday, January 30, 2023

Monday's Musical Melody: Secretly Mine by Colette Davison



Summary:

Offbeat Shifters #1
I’m being paid to spend a month on tour with Jesse Steele, to keep him safe and protect his image. Simple.

The first rule of being a bodyguard is never get involved with your client. It should have been easy to follow, but Jesse Steele is a beautiful, kind omega, who’s far more down to earth than a pop star has any right to be.

Someone discovering our tryst becomes the least of our worries when it becomes clear Jesse has a stalker.

Can I love Jesse and protect him, or will my emotions cloud my judgement and put him in danger?

Secretly Mine is an m/m paranormal romance with a protective tiger shifter, a sweet monkey shifter, lots of cuddles, secret kisses, and piggy back rides. Whilst it is set in an alternate universe where omegas give birth, there are no pregnancy or birth scenes in this book.

Trigger warning for mentions of infertility.



There was always a moment when I willed my body to shift that I regretted it. It was excruciating. For the few seconds it took for the transformation to take place, I saw nothing but white-hot fire. Felt nothing but searing heat as every molecule in my body rearranged itself. I heard nothing but my own pitiful sobs. Smelt nothing.

Then it was over, and I was considerably smaller and buried in a pile of my own clothes. The advantage of shifting to a smaller form was that I didn’t need to undress first. Unlike Isaac. He was still in his human form, staring down at me. I danced from foot to foot, impatiently chittering at him. I was desperate to climb up into the trees and swing from branch to branch.

“Turn around,” he said.

Rather than turning around, I put my tiny hands over my large eyes. I was good and didn’t peek as Isaac undressed, even though it was tempting. While he shifted, he didn’t sob, as I had done, but he did let out a wretched moan which morphed into a growl. Only then did I lower my hands. His tiger form was huge. He padded over and stared down at me. His incisors were easily as big as my head, and I realised that if he gave in completely to his animal side, he’d eat me up for breakfast. He turned his head to the side in a swift gesture, which I took as permission to go.

I scrambled up into the trees, my hands and feet deftly gripping the trunk. I paused and studied Isaac’s tiger form. Now that his teeth and claws were well away from me, it was easier to appreciate how stunning he was. He was long and sleek, with thick black stripes breaking up his rusty orange fur. He looked up at me, his pale green eyes searching mine. He had to be wondering why I’d stopped to stare at him. Did he know how beautiful he was?

I let out an excited screech and tore off through the foliage. My long tail provided balance as I scampered along branches and then leapt from one tree to the next. Isaac ran along beneath me—beautiful, powerful, and graceful. He easily kept pace with my aerial antics.

My tiny heart beat wildly, and I felt completely and utterly free. It was so much better than being stuck on the bus. But it had to come to an end.

We reached the edge of the wood. I clung on to a fine branch at the top of the final tree, staring at the farmhouse opposite. Far beneath me, Isaac let out a short, sharp chuff, drawing my attention to him. He gestured with his head again, telling me it was time to go back. I nodded to show that I’d understood and then leapt through the treetops, back the way we’d come, until I spied our clothes exactly where we’d left them.

I scurried down to mine. I shifted back and got dressed just before Isaac caught up with me. Given how easily he’d kept up before, I decided he’d let me get ahead this time so I could get into my clothes without having him as an audience. He sat on his haunches and gave me a look that might have meant he wanted to eat me for dinner. I gulped and backed away a little. I was nowhere near as fearless in my human form as when I was a monkey.





Author Bio:
Colette's personal love story began at university, where she met her future husband. An evening of flirting, in the shadow of Lancaster castle, eventually led to a fairytale wedding. Several years later, she’s enjoying her own ‘happy ever after’ in the north of England with her husband, two beautiful children and her writing.

Ever since she could hold a pen, Colette has been writing stories. Always an avid reader and lover of the arts, Colette graduated in Theatre Studies from Lancaster University in 1999, and in English Literature from the Open University in 2010. After studying for a P.G.C.E. in secondary education, and subsequently teaching english and drama for six years, Colette chose to become a stay at home mum and to focus on her writing.

Colette's first M/M romance, Why I Left You, was published in November 2017. Since then she has continued to write books that are sweet, sexy, and heartwarming.





Secretly Mine #1

Series


🎭Week at a Glance🎭: 1/23/23 - 1/29/23






















Sunday, January 29, 2023

Sunday's Sport Stats: Bending the Rules by Brigham Vaughn



Summary:

Rules of the Game #2
Rule #1: Never give up on love.

Hockey is Noah Boucher's life. He even walked away from a chance at a relationship for a career as a star goaltender. But when an injury sidelines him and he crosses paths with the man he left behind, everything changes.

Noah is determined to have it all: a return to the ice, one final season to lead the Toronto Fisher Cats to the Cup—and a future with Simon Lawrence.

Simon is stunned to see Noah again, and all of his old feelings come rushing back, along with off-the charts chemistry. But Simon has been burned by relationships in the past, and his own career as a photographer and gallery owner is at a turning point. Trusting Noah to put him first—even while struggling to reconnect with his team and dealing with media scrutiny—is a tall order.

When catastrophe strikes just as the playoffs are heating up, Noah will have to make a choice: risk the man he loves or bend the rules to prove this time, Simon comes first.



PROLOGUE 
TWELVE YEARS AGO 
Sweaty from hauling his belongings up to his dorm room, Noah Boucher picked up his caddy and grabbed a towel. He was halfway to the communal showers when he spotted a dark-haired woman standing in the doorway to one of the rooms, speaking to someone inside. 

“Be safe, sweetie!” she said cheerfully. “I tucked condoms into your bag. I know there are a lot of cute boys here in Toronto, but I expect you to make good choices.” 

A pained male groan came from inside the room and Noah slowed to a stop, intrigued. Another bi or gay guy on his floor? Interesting. 

“Mom, stop it. You’re being embarrassing. Please go.” 

She laughed and leaned forward. “Bye. Love you, Simon.” 

“Love you too, Mom.” The guy, Simon, sounded both exasperated and fond.

After she left, Noah hung back for a moment before he continued down the hall. Simon still stood in the door as Noah passed and he let out another pained little sound. “You heard all of that, didn’t you?” 

Noah nodded, trying to suppress his smile. 

“God, can I just die now?” Simon’s pale cheeks flushed a bright red, and he brushed his black hair off his forehead with a bashful duck of his chin. He peered at Noah through his thick lashes as he wet his lips. “That was seriously embarrassing.” 

“Hey, no, it’s cool,” Noah said with a grin, trying to reassure him. “Well, not cool, but all moms are like that, I swear. You just missed mine being super awkward earlier. And my dad’s Quebecois, so he was embarrassing in two languages. Only it was my parents telling me that there were lots of cute girls and guys, so I need to be careful with both.” 

Simon laughed, the tension in his shoulders easing as he tilted his head and studied Noah. “You’re bi?” 

“Yep. Bilingual and bisexual.” 

Simon laughed again, even louder this time. “And you’re out about it?” 

“Sure. I told the team last year when I joined. Couldn’t have fooled the other French-Canadian players if I tried though. They knew I was bilingual right away.” Noah winked. 

Simon shook his head, his cheeks still a little pink, his expression amused. “I meant—”

“I know what you meant,” Noah said teasingly. “I was just playing. Yeah, I’m out to everyone on the team.” 

“The … team?” 

“Uh, hockey. I play for the university.” 

“Cool. You had any issues with it? Being out, I mean.” 

Noah shrugged. “There are always a few assholes, eh? But for the most part, it’s not too bad.” 

Simon looked him up and down. “What position do you play?” 

“Goaltender.” 

“You any good?” 

Noah grinned. “I’m not bad.” 

He was more than ‘not bad.’ He’d been drafted by the new expansion team here in Toronto—the Fisher Cats—bringing a second team to the center of the hockey world—but his parents wanted him to finish his degree first. It was smarter, he knew that, but God he wanted to play now. 

Three more years, he promised himself.

Truthfully, he was surprised Simon hadn’t heard of him, but his accent sounded more American than Canadian, so maybe that was it. It had been big news here—the new team starting and immediately going for the local star. 

Noah had been born and raised in a small town in Quebec, but once it became clear how talented he was, his parents had moved the entire family to the outskirts of Toronto so he could join a highly regarded AAA travel team. He’d spent most of his youth living in and playing for Toronto, so the idea of the local NHL team being enthusiastic to sign him had been a dream come true. 

Playing for the university had pushed his skills to another level and given him some great experience in high intensity games that he hoped would serve him well when he joined the active Fishers roster. 

But right now, he was very, very glad he’d gone to college since it meant there were cute gay boys living just down the hall from him. 

Simon gave him a small smile. “Maybe I’ll have to go to a game sometime and see just how good you are.” 

“I’d like that.” Noah leaned against the wall, studying Simon. He was dressed in jeans and a nondescript hoodie so it was impossible to tell what he was into. He could have been a musician, a jock, or pre-med, or any combination of those things, plus a million others. Whatever he was, he was damn pretty. “So, what do you do?” 

“Do?” Simon tilted his head with an inquisitive look.

“Like … what are you into? Sports? Hobbies? What’s your major?” 

“I’m a photographer. I’m taking business classes too, but photography is what I really love.” 

“Oh cool. I’d love to see some of your work sometime.” 

“Yeah, that would be great. I’d love to show you.” Simon’s gaze flicked up and down Noah’s body before a frown creased his forehead. “I’m sorry, you were probably on your way to take a shower, weren’t you? I should let you get to that.” 

“Uhh, yeah,” Noah admitted. “Guess I should. I’m enjoying talking to you though.” 

“We could grab dinner together later or something,” Simon offered, licking his lips. 

Heat stirred low in Noah’s stomach. Simon had these high cheekbones and pretty dark eyes, and he was tall—nearly as tall as Noah was—and rangy. He was probably half his width. There wasn’t an ounce of fat on him. Gorgeous. The more Noah looked at him, the more he liked him. 

Noah grinned and nodded. “Yeah, I’d like that. Meet you back here at six?” 

“Six it is.” 

“Awesome, see you then.” Noah gave Simon another grin, then mentally facepalmed. He’d never introduced himself. “I’m Noah Boucher by the way.” 

Simon laughed, his cheeks flushing again, his palm warm and a little damp when their hands pressed together. “Simon Lawrence.”

“Very nice to meet you, Simon Lawrence,” Noah said with a slow grin and a wink before he headed for the showers, whistling under his breath. At worst, it looked like he might have made a friend. At best … well, they’d just have to wait and see. 

But when Noah arrived at Simon’s door a few minutes before six, Simon’s roommate was there too. Brad followed them to the cafeteria, clearly unaware that this was supposed to have been a date. As Noah swiped his key card and a couple of guys from the team waved at him and walked over, he stifled a groan and glanced at Simon, expecting him to have an equally annoyed expression on his face. But he was deep in conversation with his roommate. A flicker of doubt went through Noah. 

Did Simon not intend this to be a date? 

Despite Noah’s annoyance and confusion, dinner that night was entertaining. Some people from their floor joined them along with a few of Noah’s teammates and it was a loud, fun group. He tried to get to know Simon better when he could, and he figured there would be another chance to ask him on a date—for real—in the future. 

But dinners with friends became a regular thing, and no matter how many times Noah tried to get Simon alone by inviting him to the movies or out for a drink, it never seemed to happen. There was always someone tagging along. Noah was glad they’d made friends with new people but Jesus, it was impossible to actually get some alone time with Simon. And within a few weeks, Simon started dating a guy from one of his classes and Noah had missed his opportunity. Admitting defeat, Noah finally said yes to the girl on the floor downstairs who had invited him to a couple of parties.

Though they became close friends, Noah continued to wonder what it would be like to kiss Simon. Touch him. Make him his. 

Noah had missed his opportunity. 


TWO YEARS LATER 
“That was fun. I needed that,” Simon said as he and Noah left Randall’s Pizzeria where they’d been hanging out with their friends. 

“Me too. I’ve been studying like crazy.” 

Simon snuck a glance at Noah. Noah’s cheeks were pink, and his blue eyes were bright. Simon had enjoyed a couple of drinks, but Noah had only had one. They had finals tomorrow, so they’d cut out early from the celebration with the excuse they needed to get some sleep. Though Simon had also wondered if Noah was hoping to spend some time alone with him. He hoped so. 

“Sometimes it’s nice to just get away from the hockey team,” Noah continued with a sigh. 

Simon snorted. “They’re entertaining.” 

“Sure. You only say that because I was the one they were giving shit to about being single.” 

“Like I said, entertaining.”

“Hey. Rude.” Noah playfully bumped his shoulder. “Sorry your boyfriend couldn’t make it.” 

Noah didn’t sound very sorry. And the truth was, Simon wasn’t either. They wouldn’t be walking back to the dorms like this together if Dave had come to the bar with them. And Simon really, really liked spending time with Noah. Probably more than he should. 

Simon shrugged. “We’re … I don’t know. Not sure we’re going to last much longer.” He bit his lip and shot Noah a sidelong glance. 

“Why’s that?” 

Noah looked oddly happy at that news, which made Simon’s stomach flutter. 

In the two years they’d been friends, Simon had always wondered if something would happen with Noah. The chemistry was there, but the timing had never worked out. If one of them was single, the other wasn’t. But Simon had dreamed about what it would be like to run his fingers through Noah’s red-gold hair and kiss his full lips. He’d spent so many mornings in the shower thinking about what Noah’s body would look like under his clothes. Wondering how he’d smell. How he’d taste. 

Sometimes he even imagined being with Noah when he was in bed with Dave, though he’d never admit that aloud. 

“I don’t know,” Simon admitted. “Dave seems like he’s kinda restless. He keeps talking about seeing other people. Not like, breaking up, but at the same time.” He shrugged. 

“That’s not your thing?”

“No.” Simon chewed at his lip. “Is that weird?” 

“No. I mean, whatever makes people happy, I guess, but I don’t think I’d want that either.” 

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah. I mean, for one, between hockey and school, I don’t have that much time. It’s cool if it’s casual or whatever, but trying to seriously date multiple people at a time sounds exhausting, eh?” 

“Sure.” 

“Besides.” Noah bumped Simon’s shoulder again, this time more softly. “If I’m serious about someone, I like being focused on just them. The one person I’m really, really into is all I’d need.” 

“Is there someone?” 

“Someone I’m really, really into?” 

“Yeah.” Simon held his breath. “Yeah, there is,” Noah said, his voice a little raspy. “Um, there’s this guy who lives on my floor in the dorms. He’s gorgeous and so smart and really talented. I’ve had a crush on him for a couple of years.” 

“He sounds amazing. If things don’t work out, you’ll have to introduce me to him,” Simon teased, desperately hoping he was the one Noah was talking about. 

Noah stopped dead in his tracks and gently grabbed Simon’s arm. “It’s you, Simon.”

“I know.” Simon let out an awkward little laugh. “I mean, I hoped that’s what you meant. Because I”—he licked his lips—“I feel it too. I just don’t know what to do about it.” 

“Isn’t it obvious?” Noah stepped closer. 

The air was so cold Simon could see the white steam flow from Noah’s lips and mingle with the puffs of air he let out. 

“What?” 

“You and me.” Noah slid his hand along the back of Simon’s parka, pulling him closer. “We’ve been dancing around this for two years, Simon. We’re not fooling anyone.” 

Simon’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?” 

“Haven’t you heard people talking? My friends are always harassing me about when I’m going to ask you out.” 

“What do you tell them?” 

“When the time is right.” He pressed his forehead to Simon’s. 

“I have a boyfriend.” But Simon slid his hands, covered with mittens, up the front of Noah’s parka, grabbing his lapels. “The time isn’t right.” 

“I know,” Noah admitted. “That's why I’m not kissing you right now.”

“You want to?” 

“Oh fuck, Simon, I’m dying to.” The rasp of Noah’s voice sent a shiver through Simon’s body. “I want to lick my way between your lips and kiss you until you know you’re mine.” 

Heat crawled across Simon’s skin at those words, his entire body trembling with need. 

“I feel like a horrible person saying this, but … break up with him, Simon,” Noah said. 

Simon sighed, pulling back to look Noah in the eye. “I don’t wanna be a jerk to Dave. He’s not a bad guy.” 

“I know. Doesn’t mean he’s right for you though,” Noah argued. “Look, I don’t want to pressure you. If you’re happy with Dave, I’ll back off. But it doesn’t sound like you are. And if you’re not, why are you with him? Whatever happens between us, don’t waste your time being miserable, Simon. And don’t do what Dave wants if it isn’t what makes you happy.” 

“Okay.” Simon wet his lips, heart beating fast. “Yeah, um, I’ll talk to Dave.” 

“Good.” 

They walked back to the dorm in silence. When they reached Simon’s room, Noah kept walking, heading to his own door. But the look he gave Simon was filled with so much heat that Simon promised himself he’d talk to Dave soon.

******

The following morning, Noah skidded into Simon’s dorm room, socks sliding on the slippery floors. “Holy shit, Simon, you’re never going to believe this!” 

“Believe what?” Simon rose to his feet. 

Noah’s heart thundered as he tried to wrap his brain around the news he’d just gotten. “I got a call. They … I’m playing an NHL game tonight.” 

“What?” 

“The Fisher Cats need me. You know I’ve been signed with them for a while and had planned to report to the team after I was done playing for the university.” Simon nodded. “In the meantime, I was on their roster as an emergency backup goaltender, but I never thought it would actually happen. Just got a call from my agent though.” 

“What did he say?” 

“You know how Townsend has been out with a lower body injury this past week?” Townsend was the Fishers’ starting goalie. 

“Yeah.”

“Well, Koskinen—their backup—is out now too. Concussion during practice this morning. Some weird fluke thing, I guess, but he’s out for a few games.” 

“Shit.” Simon was wide-eyed. 

“So they want me.” That was the part Noah was having trouble wrapping his brain around. 

A frown furrowed Simon’s brow. “Wouldn’t they just bring up a guy from the AHL team?” 

“Cap space problem. They can’t afford it.” 

“Wow. So, this means …” 

“I—I’m leaving in like twenty minutes to play pro hockey. I just had to tell you first.” 

“Wow,” Simon said softly. “That’s amazing, Noah.” 

Noah stepped closer. “It’s crazy. I’m so excited.” He couldn’t stop the grin that stretched across his face. Simon was the first person he’d told. The only one—other than his family—who he wanted to share that news with. 

“You should be! This is a dream come true for you.” 

“Watch the game tonight?” Noah reached out and grabbed the front of Simon’s hoodie, pulling him a little closer. “If I know you’re watching, I’ll play better.”

“I always watch your games,” Simon said with a small smile. “I just wish I could see this one in person.” 

“Maybe someday.” Noah grinned. “When I’m on the ice wearing a Toronto Fisher Cats jersey for real.” 

“It won’t be long. I know it.” 

Simon’s faith in him warmed Noah clear down to his toes. “Wish me luck tonight?” 

“Good luck,” Simon said, his eyes filled with pride. “But you don’t need it. You’re going to be amazing either way. I know you are.” 

“Thank you.” Noah hugged him, the excited tension in him unwinding a little at the feel of Simon in his arms. He stepped back, smiling as he wrapped his hand around the back of Simon’s neck. “And when I get back, I’m taking you on a date, Simon Lawrence.” 

“You promise?” 

Noah grinned, even more widely this time. It was like he couldn’t stop. “I promise.” Impulsively, he leaned forward and kissed Simon’s forehead. 

“Guess I better have that talk with Dave then,” Simon said quietly when Noah drew back. 

Hope lit him up inside, making an already great day even better. “Guess you better.”

******

Simon’s pulse raced and his short nails dug half-moons into his palms when he clenched his fists. “C’mon, Noah,” he chanted under his breath, watching with his heart in his throat while Detroit’s forward sped toward the goal. “You’ve got this.” 

He almost couldn’t watch while Noah smoothly slid into the splits, reaching with his blocker and batting the puck back onto the ice, right in front of one of the Fishers’ players who snagged it and raced toward Detroit’s goal. 

“Yesss,” Simon hissed, relief making him fall limply back onto the beanbag with a sigh. “Fuck yes, Noah.” 

By the time the game was over, and Toronto had pulled off a 3-2 win, Simon was as exhausted and sweaty as if he’d been the one playing the game. Well, maybe not as sweaty. The camera had panned across a drenched but triumphant Noah Boucher a few minutes ago, his red hair soaked with sweat and the water he’d dumped over his head. Simon’s heart raced at the sight of him. Already, he looked different. Older, more mature. Was that really the guy he’d seen this morning who’d promised to take him on a date? The one who’d kissed his forehead and looked at him with such tenderness and affection that Simon could still feel the warmth of it in his chest? 

A flicker of worry worked through Simon. Noah had played his first NHL game—and blown everyone away—but Simon knew it wouldn’t be his last. He was too good. No one had expected a college-level emergency backup goaltender to accomplish much but Noah had killed it tonight. What did that mean for their future? 

“Simon?” 

He glanced up to see his boyfriend Dave staring at him, holding out a hand. He let Dave pull him to his feet, mentally rehearsing how he was going to break up with him. Shit, he felt like an asshole. But this thing with Noah, it was too big to ignore, and even if Noah wasn’t in the picture, it was clear Dave wasn’t the guy for him. 

“You want to head back to your room or mine?” Dave asked, sliding a hand around Simon’s waist and pressing close, nuzzling against his neck. They’d been watching the game with a few guys on the floor. 

Simon tried not to flinch at the touch. “Uhh, mine is okay. Brad’s out tonight.” 

But when Simon shut the door behind them and Dave leaned in for a kiss, Simon placed his hand in the center of Dave’s chest. “Look, we should talk.” 

Dave sighed and stepped back. “Let me guess, you’re breaking up with me?” 

“Yeah.” Simon grimaced. “To be honest, it’s felt like neither of us are super into this.” 

“I like you, Simon.”

“I like you too, but …” But there was no spark. There was no racing heart like he had every time he looked at Noah. He liked spending time with Dave, and they had fun, but even the hottest sex with Dave paled in comparison to just spending time with Noah. 

“But you’re in love with Boucher.” Dave jammed his hands in his pockets. 

“What?” Simon blinked. 

“Oh, come on, you’re not fooling anyone. I get it. He’s hot. I’d do him too. Just don’t expect him to stick around for long.” Dave let out a little snort. “You saw the game. He’s got a pro hockey career in his future. He’s not going to wait around for you.” 

******

“Simon?” Noah peered through the open door of Simon’s room, still flying high from the game the night before. He’d snatched a few hours of sleep but the buzz inside him hadn’t fully faded. 

“Noah. You’re back!” Simon rose to his feet. “I watched your game. It was amazing.” 

Noah rubbed the back of his neck. “Thanks.” 

He still didn’t know how he’d pulled it off. Toronto had won. A lot of it was due to the rest of the team, of course. They had a strong offense this year and their D-men had kept the puck away from Noah’s goal for most of the game. But he’d had some incredible saves too, and there had been real, genuine appreciation on the guys’ faces after the game when they’d congratulated him. No one had expected much of an emergency backup goaltender but Noah had proved them wrong. 

The press was going nuts with the story and Noah had gotten a crash course in pro-level media relations. 

Sitting there in the Toronto Fishers’ dressing room, Noah had felt like one of the team. And the call he’d gotten from his agent a few minutes ago … 

Simon stepped forward. “I broke up with Dave.” 

“I …” Noah swallowed hard. “I’m not going to be able to take you on that date, Simon.” 

Simon’s expression fell. “Why’s that?” 

“They want to sign me. They’re desperate for goaltenders and I did so well last night. Last night I signed a one-day amateur try-out contract but they … they’ve offered me an actual entry-level contract. My parents and I are meeting with my agent and some reps from the Fishers this afternoon so we can hammer out some final details, but … it’s pretty much a done deal.” 

“Wow. You’ll be playing for the Fishers for real then?” 

“Yeah, I’m heading straight up to them. No stop in the AHL. It’s crazy. Shit like this pretty much never happens but …” Noah couldn’t say it out loud, but they’d told him he was one of the best prospects they’d seen in years. He’d killed it on the ice for the university this season and after his performance in his first pro game last night, no one could deny he was ready.

His parents were a little wary—they wanted him to finish college—but even they couldn’t deny that this step made sense. How could he turn down a shot like this? It was like the fates had aligned just right. In the history of the NHL, only a few EBUGs had ever gotten ice time. Usually, they just dressed for the game and warmed the bench. Even then the team usually knew there was a high chance of losing but it had been like magic last night. Time had seemed to slow down, and Noah was there, ready to block the shots fired his way that had snuck by Toronto’s defense. 

All the pieces had lined up just right to give Noah this opportunity to go after his dream. But damn, leaving school was going to be hard, and leaving Simon even harder. 

“Well, I’m happy for you.” Simon’s tone was firm like he was trying to mean it, but his expression turned sad. “I guess it’s still not the right time for us, huh?” His sigh was heartfelt, and an answering twinge went through Noah. 

“I guess not.” Noah reached out and took Simon’s hand, then pressed his lips to his forehead, letting the kiss linger. “Maybe someday.” 

“Yeah, maybe.” The ache in Simon’s voice was unmistakable. 

“A part of me wants to turn the offer down,” Noah blurted out as he stepped back. He didn’t let go of Simon’s hand. “To stay here. To be with you.” 

Simon opened his mouth, but Noah shook his head. “No, let me get this out, please. But I know I can’t. This offer is life changing. So few guys get this opportunity, and I need to chase my dream.”

“I know that,” Simon said thickly. “I really do. You deserve this, Noah. You’re an incredible goalie. I’d never want to get in the way of that.” 

“I’m excited about my future, but … I don’t want to lose you,” Noah whispered. 

“I don’t want to lose you either.” 

Noah squeezed his upper arm. “I wish I could ask you to wait for me.” 

Simon nodded. 

“Or that we could try to make it work anyway. But the truth is, a pro career is hard. You want to go to New York someday and open a gallery. I’m going to be traveling with Toronto but God knows how many times I’ll get traded in my career. I want to ask you to wait for me, but it wouldn’t be fair. I want you, but I don’t want to start something I know won’t last. I don’t want to promise you things I’m not sure I can follow through on.” Noah dragged the side of his thumb down Simon’s cheek, more conflicted than he’d ever been in his life. He was being offered everything he’d ever wanted—a pro hockey career—but he had to lose Simon to get it. “Because if I had you, I’d never want to let you go.” 

Simon smiled, but his eyes remained sad. “I understand, Noah.” 

Noah let out a shaky sigh. “It seems impossible that I can miss you this much already. We never even ...” 

“I know.” Simon stepped close again and Noah wrapped his arms tightly around him, aching with loss already.

He and Simon had never dated. Never so much as kissed. But that glimmer of the future they could have had burned in his chest. “I’m excited about my future, Simon,” Noah murmured. “I just wish you could be in it.” 

“I know. Me too.” Simon hugged him tight, then pressed a kiss to Noah’s cheek. “Good luck, Noah. I know you’re going to be amazing.” 

Noah gave him a tremulous smile, then turned and walked away to pack, wondering why it felt like he was leaving his future behind.



Sunday Sport Stats

Curious about the reading order for Rules of the Game? There are two series within the Rules of the Game universe, following two hockey teams. This is the chronological reading order:

Road Rules (Evanston River Otters) - Coming March 31, 2023
Bending the Rules (Toronto Fisher Cats) - Available Now
Changing the Rules (Evanston River Otters) - Available Now
Unwritten Rules (Evanston River Otters) - Available Now
Rules of Engagement (Evanston River Otters) - Available Now
Breaking the Rules (Evanston River Otters) - Available Now


Author Bio:
Brigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga.  She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.

Her books range from short stories to novellas. They explore gay, lesbian, and polyamorous romance in contemporary settings.

To stay up to date on her latest releases, sign up for the Coles & Vaughn Newsletter.


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Bending the Rules #2



Saturday, January 28, 2023

Saturday's Series Spotlight: The Breakfast Club by Felice Stevens Part 1



Beyond the Surface #1
Summary:
When Julian’s world takes an unexpected turn, it’s Nick who helps him regain perspective on what matters most in life.

On 9/11, firefighter Nick Fletcher’s world changed forever. He's unable to rid himself of survivor’s guilt, made worse by the secret he hides from his family and co-workers. Nick's life is centered around helping burn victims, until he is reunited with the man he’d once loved but pushed away. Now he has a second chance at a love he thought lost forever.

For fashion designer Julian Cornell, appearances mean everything. His love affairs are strictly casual, and the only thing he cares about is making his clothing line a success. A chance encounter with the man he loved long ago has Julian thinking for the first time in years there may be more to life than being seen at the best parties and what designer labels to wear.

When Julian’s world takes an unexpected turn, it's Nick who helps him regain perspective on what matters most in life. Julian, in turn, helps Nick accept who he is and understand he isn’t responsible for tragedies he couldn't prevent. Lost love found can be even sweeter the second time around and after all the years apart, both men learn to look beyond the surface to find the men they are inside.



Betting on Forever #2
Summary:
After a split-second decision with tragic results ends his twenty-year police career at the same time as his relationship falls apart, Sam Stein is drifting through life.

A weekend fling in Atlantic City couldn’t be more out of socially shy Zach Cohen’s comfort zone, but a bet with his best friends forces him to put aside the humiliation he’s hidden for years, stepping away from behind his computer screens and on line world. When he meets Sam Stein, despite their spark, Zach expects nothing more than a night of passion and a kiss goodbye. Yet weeks later, he can’t keep the man out of his head.

After a split second decision with tragic results ends his twenty year police career at the same time his relationship falls apart, Sam Stein is drifting through life. At his best friend’s urging he agrees to a trip to Atlantic City to clear his head. What Sam doesn’t plan on is meeting Zach Cohen, whose sweet nature and honesty has him thinking maybe he could move forward, until Zach leaves him without explanation, reinforcing Sam’s belief that people can’t be trusted.

Well-meaning friends refuse to let Zach and Sam hide from each other, forcing them to realize their weekend is much more than a one night stand. Before that can happen, Zach must come to terms with his past and stand up for his own independence, while Sam has to learn to take a chance and believe in himself and people again. All bets are off when dreams become reality and forever doesn’t seem to be long enough.



Second to None #3
Summary:
Flirting with the customers for tips is easy, but resisting the dark and sexy Marcus is becoming harder to do with each passing day.

Nightclub owner Marcus Feldman never met a man he didn’t love, at least for the night. Although his best friends have all found love, Marcus shuns their advice to commit to one man and settle down. His past has taught him monogamy and marriage is for fools, and Marcus is anything but a fool.

Tyler Reiss’s dream of dancing professionally is unexpectedly cut short and replaced by a different kind of love. He trades in his ballet slippers for go go boots, and spends his nights dancing at the hottest gay club in the city. Flirting with the customers for tips is easy, but resisting the dark and sexy Marcus is becoming harder to do with each passing day.

Unforeseen circumstances bring Marcus and Tyler closer and though they give in to their mutual passion, both still struggle to guard their hearts. When crises threaten, Tyler and Marcus find their strength in each other rather than falling apart. Tyler must choose to either run, or stay and fight for the life he wants, while Marcus realizes that love doesn’t mean losing himself and opens his heart, making him a better man in the end.


What Lies Between Us #4
Summary:
Sam is ready to settle in for the perfect life with Zach but years of bad habits have come back to haunt him.

Now that he’s living with Sam Stein, Zach Cohen is finally ready to move on from his unhappy past. His days are filled with wedding preparations, yet he still finds time to make plans and decisions without consulting Sam and his mother, firmly believing he knows best.

Sam is ready to settle in for the perfect life with Zach but years of bad habits have come back to haunt him. Struggling to accept himself and his future, he chooses not to share his fears, unwilling to look weak in Zach’s eyes.

Real life gets in the way of the best intentions and when their secrets explode, the aftermath challenges the foundation of a relationship both believed unshakeable. Falling in love is the easy part, and Zach and Sam discover that only with honesty can they overcome what threatens to tear them apart.



Beyond the Surface #1
Original Review August 2015:
Simply put, Felice Stevens has done it again.  Second chance stories can often leave readers feeling unsure whether one or both characters actually deserve the second chance so they can be difficult to accomplish.  Miss Stevens has done just that for Nick and Julian, you want to wrap them up and take them home so you can guarantee they see what is in front of them.  Tragedies can lead you to harden your heart so you don't ever experience that heartache again but sometimes when you find that special someone to show you that the risk to your heart can far outweigh the potential loss, you have to never let go of that person.  Nick and Julian's journey the second time around is beautifully written and you just might find something out about yourself as well as enjoy a great story.



Betting on Forever #2
Original Review December 2015:
Miss Stevens has done it again.  In her second book of The Breakfast Club we get to know Zach and Sam.  Separately they have their past full of pains but together they have a weekend that is off the charts.  Once the weekend is over their story takes us on a roller coaster of emotions that will leave the reader feeling, well just "WOW!", there is no other way to say it better.  Thank God for meddling friends because they may be tiresome at times they also can make us see what is right there in front of us.  Sometimes I have trouble with a series when it bases each story on a different couple, mostly because I am just not ready to let go of the previous pair so when an author can make me love each series entry as much as the others than that is a real win in my book and that is exactly what Felice Stevens has done with The Breakfast Club.



Second to None #3
Original Review February 2016:
Second to None is brilliant!  Okay, I know you want more so here it goes.  No amount of good intentions can make Marcus see what his friends tell and show him, love and commitment is not a death sentence for your soul's ability to experience fun, life, and freedom.  Some things just have to happen for certain people to truly believe, and happen it does well eventually anyway.  Life may not be exactly where Tyler envisioned for himself but that doesn't mean he isn't exactly where he needs to be.  When these two cross paths, it is explosive, at least it was for this reader.  Sometimes when couples meet and their chemistry is off the charts, for the reader at least even when the characters don't feel it yet, their journey can peak early and fall a little flat or remain status quo for the rest of the book but not this time.  Felice Stevens brings us another great couple with this entry in The Breakfast Club.



What Lies Between Us #4
Original Review January 2017:
How did I forget to read this one for a whole year? In this wonderful novella installment of The Breakfast Club we get to see Zach and Sam again, who's love story we saw unfold in book 2, Betting on Forever.  As we see them get ready for the next leg in their journey, and as in life, happily ever after doesn't come easy.  I won't say too much, I'm afraid once I start I won't be able to shut my fingers up.  I will say that you just might walk away from What Lies Between Us learning a thing or two about yourself as well as being completely and fully entertained.  That's not saying the author is teaching a lesson with What Lies, but when you can learn something about yourself when you've reached the final page of a tale of fiction, it only goes to further show the talent of the author and that's exactly what Miss Stevens has done.  Her talent is endless and I can't wait to see what she brings us in 2017.

RATING:



Beyond the Surface #1
Julian was in the kitchen, sitting on one of the stools by the counter. He had a glass in front of him filled with what Nick presumed was vodka, having spied the Grey Goose bottle.
   
“Would you like a drink? I have beer, wine…anything you’d like.”
   
Nick shook his head, regret piercing his heart as he watched the hope drain from Julian’s eyes.
   
“I don’t think so. I’m going to head home. I want you to know how much I appreciate what you did for Jamal tonight.”
   
Julian stood abruptly, kicking the stool away from his feet.
   
“Don’t treat me like I’m some fucking stranger, Nicky. You owe me. It’s been eighteen years; you think I’m going to let you walk out on me again like you did before? After what just happened between us? After you fell apart? No fucking way. I’m not that same person and neither are you, obviously.”
   
Taken aback by Julian’s anger, Nick remained mute.
   
“What the hell is going on with you? One minute you’re tongue fucking me into the next century and the next you’re freaking out. I know I’m a damn good kisser, but this isn’t about us, is it? It has nothing to do with our past and everything to do with you and the shit that’s floating around in your head.”
   
Julian stepped closer to him and Nick, who normally couldn’t stand people near him, was rooted to the floor, unable to move.
   
“Talk to me, Nicky. Tell me what happened to you.”
   
He was so tired of holding himself together, feeling like at any moment he’d shatter into a million tiny pieces, leaving nothing behind but a pile of dust.
   
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
   
The words poured out of him, flowing unchecked this time. “It should’ve been me. We all went to the Towers to save them. It was my day off, but I went anyway. I heard and couldn’t stay home; I had a duty to help, you know? But I lived and they all died. Why, Julian? Why did I live and they didn’t?”
   
“Oh, Nick.” Julian held him close. “I don’t have the answers for you. No one does. But I’m going to be completely selfish and say I’m so thankful you did make it and we’re here together after all these years.”
   
Unflinching green eyes gazed back at him. Clever, beautiful eyes that Nick could never stop dreaming of. Eyes that at one time had held the promise of forever, until Nick ruined everything with his cowardice and shame. Unable to maintain Julian’s scrutiny, Nick broke away and ran to the elevator, his chest heaving, eyes stinging with tears.

“Let me out. I need to leave here. NOW.”





Betting on Forever #2
I could be a totally new Zach. Someone who wasn’t afraid to take risks; someone willing to have fun and be daring.” He looked down at his lap. “Someone people would notice.”

None of this made sense to Sam. “But why? You’re a young, incredibly rich, good-looking guy. Why do you think you need to pretend? Any guy would be lucky to be with you.”

The compliment didn’t bring a smile of thanks or even a blush of self-awareness. Zach’s expression grew gloomier, and he stood, then walked to the windows.

“Perceptions rarely mirror truths. What you see isn’t how I see it, and it isn’t how most people have seen me all my life. I’ve never been confident about anything, except my abilities in school. And when you’re ten and never picked for sports or thirteen and never invited to any parties, a pattern is set for the adult you’ll be. The one on the sidelines; always there but never seen. When you’re an invisible kid, you tend to grow up to be an invisible adult.”

How wrong he’d been about Zach from the beginning. And knowing how sweet and kind a soul he was, Sam hurt for the young boy Zach had been and the sad and lonely man who stood before him.

“Is that how you see yourself—invisible?” Sam followed him to the window and placed a hand on his shoulder but made no other move.

“It’s how I’ve always been. Marcus always tried to include me, but—”

“You know what?” Sam slid his arm around Zach, turning him so that they faced each other. “You think too much about Marcus.” Sam took Zach’s glasses off and placed them carefully on the table. “You talk too much about him too. Want to know what I see?”

Zach blinked and nodded.

“I see a guy who’s kind, smart, and tenacious. A man who isn’t afraid to search out what he wants and go after it.” Sam leaned down and brushed Zach’s lips with his own, smiling at the sigh of pleasure from Zach. He pulled off his tee shirt and unbuttoned Zach’s shirt so their bare chests pressed against each other. Sam pushed Zach’s shirt off his shoulders so it fell to the floor, then slid his hand up Zach’s back, as warm and soft as he remembered. His fingers splayed out against skin, muscles, and bones, and he held Zach close. It was as if his hands were made to touch Zach. The feel of his skin was everything right and perfect.

“Don’t ever pretend with me; there’s no reason to. I’m not interested in someone who hangs out at the clubs and parties all night.” He buried his lips in Zach’s hair, his hands smoothing down the curvature of Zach’s spine until he dipped his fingers to gently touch below the waistband of Zach’s jeans.





Second to None #3
“This wasn’t a permanent arrangement; you knew that.” Tyler leaned against the wall. “I can’t impose on you any longer. I’m sure you want your bedroom and your life back.”

“I didn’t mind it last night.” He walked over to Tyler and placed a hand on his neck, stroking him. This he could do. He had no qualms about seducing Tyler to stay with him. The troubling reason why he wanted him there so badly, Marcus pushed to the side for now. Instead, he pulled Tyler close, settling their hips in line, and his cock thickened in his pants. “I’d tell you if I did. Please, come with me to brunch, and we can talk.”

Doubt clouded Tyler’s eyes. “I don’t belong there. Those are your friends, the people you’re closest with.”

“I had my dick inside you twice last night, Tyler. How much closer could we get?”

It took Marcus many minutes of deep, persuasive kisses to rid Tyler of his confusion. When he pulled away though, the ground under his feet reeled, and Marcus needed a moment to compose himself.

They remained standing close; Tyler’s hands rested on his shoulders while he clasped Tyler around his hips. He nuzzled Tyler’s ear, then pleaded with him.

“Come on; you have to help me out here. They’re all coupled up, and the last thing I want is to listen to them be all disgustingly loving and happy.”

An amused glint lit Taylor’s eyes. “And you hate that, huh?”

“Bet that sweet ass of yours I do.” He gave Tyler’s ass a squeeze for effect, and the light in Tyler’s eyes smoldered.

“If you want me to come, you’d better get your hands off my ass.”

Marcus’s lips curved up in a grin as he popped open the button of Tyler’s jeans and drew them down.

“I definitely want you to come; in every way possible,” he said, and sank to his knees, uncaring of how late he might be to meet Zach and Julian.





What Lies Between Us #4
Now that he’s living with Sam Stein, Zach Cohen is finally ready to move on from his unhappy past. His days are filled with wedding preparations, yet he still finds time to make plans and decisions without consulting Sam and his mother, firmly believing he knows best.

Sam is ready to settle in for the perfect life with Zach but years of bad habits have come back to haunt him. Struggling to accept himself and his future, he chooses not to share his fears, unwilling to look weak in Zach’s eyes.

Real life gets in the way of the best intentions and when their secrets explode, the aftermath challenges the foundation of a relationship both believed unshakeable. Falling in love is the easy part, and Zach and Sam discover that only with honesty can they overcome what threatens to tear them apart.




Author Bio:
Felice Stevens has always been a romantic at heart. She believes that while life is tough, there is always a happy ending around the corner. Her characters have to work for it, because just like life in NYC, nothing comes easy and that includes love.

Felice is the 2020 Lambda Literary Award winning author in best Gay Romance. She lives in New York City and has way too much black in her wardrobe. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her watching reality TV or procrastinating on FB in her reader group, Felice's Breakfast Club.


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Beyond the Surface #1
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Betting on Forever #2
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Second to None #3

What Lies Between Us #4
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Series
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Breakfast Club Collection
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