PARIS, FRANCE

Drake McLeod felt his pulse quicken as he and his two fellow CIA officers in the nondescript van raced past Hôtel de Ville. Only a few more minutes before they arrived at Club Romantique, the hottest gay bar in the city.

His thoughts, which should have been hyper-focused on the mission, were split thanks to one of the men on his team—his ex, Chance Nicholls.

Things between them had been going great until Chance had given him an ultimatum. Chance had made it clear that he was ready for the next step in their relationship after both of them had received their dream assignments on Julie’s team.

“Let’s live together, Drake. We’ve been seeing each other for over a year now. It’s way past due.”

He hadn’t understood why it was so important to Chance that they move in together. He shouldn’t have been surprised. They were opposite in so many ways. Chance was carefree and always the life of the party, while he was serious and straightforward. Even their looks were reverse. Chance was blond and blue-eyed. Drake had dark hair and brown eyes. And he couldn’t keep track of how many times their points of view were in conflict. That’s what made it exciting to be with Chance. And the makeup sex was worth it all.

Still, Drake had been confused. Hadn’t they had a terrific thing going already? Even though Langley had no official policy about officers dating, it was frowned on. He and Chance had been able to navigate those murky waters, but Drake was concerned that if they cohabitated, there would be no keeping it quiet any longer. As it was already, too many of their fellow officers knew.

He’d tried to use logic with Chance. “We need to keep our own places and be discreet so that Julie won’t separate us.” Julie Hudson was the chief supervisor of their team Rainbow Knights, the CIA’s covert unit of highly skilled LGBT officers.

Logic had no impact on Chance. He’d argued that Julie had worked hard to recruit them on the team. “She won’t care. I bet she already knows.”

They’d fought all night long and come to a gridlock, neither willing to budge an inch. That’s when Chance had broken his heart.

“I want a future, a family, the whole package—the proverbial house with the picket fence. It’s clear you don’t want the same things. Drake, I’m done. I can’t do this anymore.”

That was one month ago and those words continued echoing in Drake’s mind. Longing to hold Chance in his arms at night and being with him on the job only added to his pain. It was sheer hell, but he knew he was right. Moving in together would expose their relationship, and Julie would have no choice but to reassign one of them to another team.

“Are both of your heads in the game?” Mick Kohler, who was behind the wheel, was one of those who knew about him and Chance. Mick didn’t believe in happily-ever-afters, and he’d promised to keep quiet. “This is RK’s first mission and I don’t want it fucked up because you two can’t work out your shit.”

“We’re professionals, Mick.” Chance’s tone was clipped. “Besides, this mission is a cakewalk. Drug the target and drag him out. No problem.”

“Hope you’re right,” Drake told his ex. “But always expect the unexpected.”

Chance looked at him with those big blue eyes. “Expectations? They can get you in trouble.”

His gut tightened.

Mick took a left at the next intersection. “I’ll say it again—keep your damn heads on this mission and your cocks in your pants.”

“What’s that supposed to mean, fellas?” Julie’s voice came through the hidden comms in their ears. “Is there a problem?”

Damn. How long had she been listening? She was running the entire operation from their safe house a few miles away.

“No problem, boss.” Drake tried to keep his tone casual. “Just the punch line of one of Mick’s bad jokes.”

“Cut the crap and focus.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the three of them said.

“Wiz and I have eyes into the club through their CCTV system.”

“Guys, our target just entered.” Wiz was Blake Stimpson’s nickname. Top of his class at MIT, he was in charge of Rainbow Knights IT.

“What’s your ETA?” Julie asked.

“Pulling up now.” Mick parked the van in the spot they’d picked out earlier that day. It was in an alley at the back of the club, making it easy to capture their target, Johan Kuusik, an international assassin.

Recent chatter on the dark web had tipped off CIA analysts about Kuusik’s arrival in Paris. It was believed that he’d been hired to take out a high-level diplomat at the upcoming international forum dealing with human trafficking.

As he, Chance, and Mick got out of the van, Drake’s total focus returned to the mission. The club’s pulsing music echoed in the streets, which became even louder when they got inside. The massive space was filled to the max with gay men of all shapes and colors, most quite handsome and sexy. Trying to find Kuusik in the crowd wasn’t going to be easy.

“I’ll head to the bar,” he said in a low tone, knowing Chance and Mick would be able to hear through their comms despite the noise in the club.

Chance nodded. “I’ll recon the dance floor.”

“I’ve got the bathrooms.” Mick grinned. “We’ll flush him out, no pun intended.”

After walking to the long marble-topped bar at the back of the club, Drake took a seat at an empty barstool and scanned everyone he passed. There was no sign of Kuusik, whose face he’d memorized from the photos in the dossier.

“Hey, handsome,” the man with the goatee at the counter said to him. “How about I buy you a drink?”

“Thanks, but I’m waiting on someone.”

“Could that be me?” another man behind him asked, shoving the barrel of a gun into his side. “I’m glad you waited for me, CIA. Don’t turn around or make a scene. There are lots of innocent people who will get hurt if you don’t do exactly what I say.”

“Hello, Kuusik,” he said, sending a message to the team through his comms. “Cool gun.”

Chance’s voice came in, “On my way to you now.”

“Me, too,” Mick said.

“How did you know I was coming?”

The killer laughed. “Nice try, but I know you’re not alone. And you’ll be the one answering the questions, not me.”

Julie’s voice came in next. “Be careful, Drake. Kuusik’s skills aren’t to be underestimated.”

“McLeod, where are your buddies Nicholls and Kohler now?”

“Fuck. The bastard was tipped off,” Mick said. “Kuusik even knows our names.”

The concern in Mick’s tone matched what Drake was feeling. Assessing the pressure of Kuusik’s gun barrel in his side, he was confident he could turn things around and relieve the assassin of his weapon. But before he could make a move, gunfire erupted in the club.

Kuusik hadn’t come alone.

As the entire place went into pandemonium, Drake heard something in his comms that made his blood chill.

“I’m hit, guys,” Chance said.

A protective rage exploded inside Drake. In a move he’d practiced a thousand times during his martial arts training, he leapt from the barstool, kicking the gun out of Kuusik’s hand.

The killer’s eyes were wide with shock when Mick came up behind him, grabbing him by the coat.

“Got him, boss,” Mick said.

More gunfire and screams. The panicked crowd ran for the exits. Some fell to the floor and were trampled.

“You and Drake get Kuusik out of there,” Julie ordered. “Chance, I can’t see you. You’re in one of the CCTV’s blind spots. What’s your status?”

When he didn’t answer her, dread filled Drake. “Julie, Mick can handle the package. I’ve got to find Chance.”

“Go.”

Drake turned to begin the search for Chance.

“Behind you, Drake,” Julie warned, too late.

The man who had just offered to buy him a drink tackled him to the ground. As he battled Kuusik’s accomplice, out of the corner of his eye he saw Mick get ambushed by another man. Kuusik got free, and two more thugs ushered him to the exit.

“How many of you fuckers are there?” Mick punched his attacker in the face, sending him to the floor.

Drake kicked Mr. Goatee in the gut, sending him gasping across the ground.

“Abort the mission,” Julie ordered. “Local authorities are on their way. Find Chance and get the hell out of there.”

He and Mick ran through the now nearly empty club. In a dark corner of the room, they found an injured and exhausted Chance pounding on three of Kuusik’s men. At his feet were two more thugs he’d already neutralized.

Drake was filled with relief. “He’s alive, Julie.”

He and Mick stepped up next to Chance, helping finish off the remaining thugs.

“We’ve got to go, Chance,” Drake said. “Are you okay?”

“I’m good. Just a flesh wound.” He pointed to his bloodied jacket and then his ear. “These bastards broke my comms.”

“We can debrief everything later,” Mick said, still holding on to Kuusik’s coat. “Let’s go before the police get here.”

They ran out the same exit Kuusik had escaped through.

As they made it to the van, the approaching sirens got louder. Mick drove out of the alley.

Drake looked at the increasing bloodstain on Chance’s jacket. “Let me see where you were hit.”

Chance nodded, opening his jacket, which revealed the scope of his injury.

“Oh my God, Chance. This is much more than a flesh wound.” Drake took off his shirt, wadded it up, and pressed it against the hole in Chance’s side to stop the bleeding.

Chance groaned and lost consciousness.

“Chance. Chance.” Drake checked his pulse, which was ragged. “He’s out, Mick. Hurry. He’s still losing blood.”

“I’ve already contacted Doc,” Julie said. “He’ll be here at the safe house waiting for you.”

“On our way.” Mick blasted through a traffic light. “Don’t worry, Drake. Chance is a tough SOB. I’ll get us there in time.”

“Hang on, sweetheart.” Drake had been on many battlefields and missions, but none had ever felt like this. Chance was his whole world.

Mick drove into the subterranean parking garage. What the locals were unaware of was the secret passage that was behind reserved spot number sixty-two.

Drake turned off his comms and kissed Chance lightly on the cheek. “I was wrong, sweetheart. I’ll move in with you. Just don’t leave me. I can’t lose you.”

Once the van was parked, he and Mick carried Chance to the hidden corridor that led to the team’s safe house.

Julie met them at the door. “Doc’s inside setting everything up.”

She led them to the makeshift operating room, where they found the team’s medical officer.

Doc looked like a surfer to most, long blond hair and sun-kissed skin. But Drake knew better. Even though he was only twenty-eight, he was uber-smart, having graduated from med school when he was only nineteen.

Doc pointed at the operating table. “Put him here, guys.”

Julie’s phone buzzed. She looked at the screen and her face tightened. “It’s Collins.”

Deputy Director Peter Collins was her immediate supervisor. He had adamantly opposed the formation of Rainbow Knights but had been overruled by the top person at the CIA and first woman director, Amanda Maddow. Even with Maddow’s initial blessing, the disaster of this first mission definitely put the fate of the team in jeopardy, which Drake was sure pleased Collins. Julie would have her work cut out for her.

“We’ve got this,” Doc told her. “Take your call.”

She left and he turned to Drake and Mick. “I’ll start the blood transfusion while you two scrub up.”

The request wasn’t unexpected, since every member of the team was required to go through EMT training. Julie wanted the Rainbow Knights to be self-sufficient in every situation.

“Drake, I know this must be difficult for you,” Doc said, making it clear he also knew about his relationship with Chance. “I want you on monitors. Mick, you’ll be assisting me.”

During the entire procedure, Drake silently recited the prayer his mother had taught him when he was a child. “Our Father, who art in heaven...”

“Vitals, Drake.”

“Blood pressure, seventy-seven over forty-eight. Pulse is 121. Respiratory rate, thirty-three.”

“Let’s continue,” Doc said. “Suction here, Mick.”

The sound of the pump sucking up Chance’s blood echoed in Drake’s ears.

“There’s the little bugger,” Doc said. “Gotcha.”

Drake heard the clink of the bullet hit the bottom of the metal bowl. “Is he gonna be okay, Doc?”

“Yes, I would say so. The shot was clean, missing all his vital organs. He’s going to be fine. Even though he’s lost a lot of blood, Chance is very strong.”

“You can say that again,” Mick said.

“I’ll stitch him up. Then we’ll monitor him until he wakes up, but I don’t expect any problems.”

Reassured that Chance was going to pull through this, Drake felt the tightness in his entire body suddenly release, causing him to lose his balance and almost stumble.

“Mick, get Drake a chair please.”

“I’m okay, Doc.” Drake steadied himself. “It’s just such good news. Thank you.”

“Nevertheless, sit down. That’s an order.”

He grinned. “I think I outrank you.”

“Not in here, you don’t. Sit.”

“Yes, sir.” He took a seat and kept watching the monitors as Doc finished the procedure.

Chance continued sleeping for another hour while they all kept close watch on him. Seeing his vitals improving let Drake breathe more easily.

Julie walked in. “How’s Chance doing?”

“He’s doing great,” Doc said. “He should be waking up shortly.”

As Doc continued filling her in on Chance’s status, Mick came up beside Drake. “Breathe, buddy. You’re holding your breath. Doc said he’s gonna be okay.”

“I know. It’s just seeing him this way is tough.”

Mick checked Chance’s IV and then turned to Julie. “How did it go with Collins?”

“Are you talking about the son of a bitch I was on the phone with? He’s the biggest asshole I’ve ever worked with in my life. There’s something about that man... I can’t put my finger on it, but one of these days I will. And when I do, he’s going to be out the door in a heartbeat.”

Mick smiled. “Tell us how you really feel, boss.”

“To win this battle, we have to get Kuusik, because Collins is out to destroy us.”

“How did Kuusik know we were coming?” Mick asked.

“That’s what I’m wondering,” she said. “How many knew about our operation? Me. You guys. Collins. Director Maddow. And two analysts. I’ll work every angle to figure out how the details got into Kuusik’s hands. In the meantime, we need to find him. The mission is still on.”

“We know Kuusik likes young men,” Drake said.

“Also dance clubs.” Mick stepped next to Julie. “There’s several besides Romantique that fit the bill.”

“We’ll start there,” she said.

Chance began stirring. “Drake?”

He jumped to the side of his bed. “I’m here.”

His eyes opened. “Did we get Kuusik?”

“Not yet, but we will. How are you feeling?”

“Like someone dug a bullet out of me. Are you here, Doc?”

“Right here, buddy.” Doc moved to the other side of the bed. “And yes, I got the bullet. You’re gonna be just fine if you follow my orders.”

“If you think I’m staying in this bed all day, you’re wrong.”

“As a matter of fact, I want you to get up in a couple of hours, but you aren’t leaving. That’s an order.”

“You and what army is going to stop me?”

Julie stepped next to Doc and leaned over. “This army, Chance. I didn’t recruit you for just one mission. So you need to follow Doc’s instructions to the letter and get back on your feet as soon as possible. Is. That. Clear?”

“Yes, ma’am.” Chance nodded. “Very clear.”

“We need to find Kuusik. Mick, you and Wiz are with me.” She turned to Drake. “You’re staying here with Chance.”

Drake’s jaw tightened. Why was she pulling him off the mission to watch Chance? Did she suspect that they had been in a relationship?

“Julie, he doesn’t have to stay here,” Chance said. “I’m in good hands with Doc. Besides, I can take care of myself.”

“Fine. Drake, you’re with us.”

Drake wondered if Chance was still angry with him about refusing to move in together. This wasn’t the place, especially not in front of Julie, to tell Chance that he’d had a complete change of heart. More than anything, he wanted him back in his life.

Chance looked at him. “You have a job to finish. Go get that fucker before he assassinates someone.”

Drake nodded and squeezed his hand.

“Wait a minute,” Mick said. “I left Kuusik’s jacket in the van. I know it’s a long shot but maybe we’ll find something in one of the pockets that can lead us to him.”

“Let’s go get it.” Drake rushed out the door with Mick to parking spot sixty-two.

They got to the van and Mick grabbed the jacket.

“You’re not going to believe this. Kuusik’s phone is in here.” Mick held up a sat phone. “I hope this is the break we’ve been needing.”

They ran back to the safe house, letting the rest know what they’d found.

Julie took the phone from Mick. “It’s locked.”

“If anyone can crack it, Wiz can,” Drake said.

“You’re right about that. He’s still in the control room. I’ll be right back.” She left with the phone.

Moments later, Julie returned with Wiz.

“That was fast,” Mick said. “Even for you, Wiz.”

“The arrogant idiot used assassin for his password.”

“We have to go now, guys,” Julie said. “He’s going to attempt to assassinate the French president at a ribbon cutting of the Hotel L’Gemme, which is in twenty minutes.”

Chance sat up. “It will take at least that much time to get there from here.”

“Not with him behind the wheel.” Drake pointed at Mick.

“Damn right,” Mick said. “Let’s go.”

“Get that bastard,” Chance said.

Everyone but Doc and Chance ran out.

As promised, Mick got them to the ribbon cutting just in time. They remained outside the barricades and couldn’t get closer because the French security in charge of protecting the president had blocked off the area.

Still, they could see there was a large crowd at the ceremony. The president sat with other dignitaries in chairs behind the podium. A speaker from the hotel chain was giving the introduction for the president.

“Circulez! Circulez!” one of the guards outside the blockade told them. “Il n’y a rien.”

“Oui, Officier,” Julie said in a nonthreatening tone.

The last thing she needed to do was draw attention to the team.

Drake and Mick walked one direction and Julie and Wiz walked the other, each duo scanning the area for any sign of Kuusik.

Knowing the killer would likely make the attempt when the president stepped up to the microphone, Drake prayed for a long introduction and looked for any spot where Kuusik could take his shot. There weren’t many choices since the authorities had likely cleared the area hours ago.

Luck was on Drake’s side when he saw light reflect off of the scope on Kuusik’s rifle. The assassin was leaning out a third-story window in an abandoned building more than a block away at an odd angle that would make getting off a shot very difficult.

As Drake raced there, he imagined it had gone unchecked by the sweep of the authorities. They probably marked it off their list as too far away. But he knew Kuusik’s reputation. He’d picked off an Asian general just last year on what most believed was an impossible shot.

“Kuusik is in that vacant building off to the south,” he panted out as he closed the distance. “Third floor, the fourth window from the left.”

“Copy that,” they all confirmed.

“On our way,” Julie said.

Behind him, Drake heard the applause that announced the president was moving to the podium. In front of him, Kuusik was about to fire.

Drake had no time to get closer for a better shot. He pulled out his gun and fired off every round at the third-floor window.

Hearing the pandemonium his gunfire had created, Drake saw the barrel of the rifle disappear. If he hadn’t hit the assassin, at least he’d blocked his attempt.

Mick caught up with him, and they ran into the vacant building.

“Status,” Julie ordered.

“Entering the building to apprehend Kuusik,” Mick answered.

“Abort. Get out of there. Local authorities are headed your way now.”

Drake didn’t stop. Couldn’t stop. The images of Chance bleeding in his arms and passing out kept playing over and over in his mind. Kuusik was the one responsible. Drake ran into the building, ready to make the fucker pay for what he’d done to Chance.

Just two steps behind, Mick grabbed him, turning off his comms. “What the hell are you doing, McLeod? You heard the orders.”

Drake reached up and muted his comms. “Fuck the orders. This is for Chance.”

“Okay. I’m game.”

As the sound of approaching police boots echoed off the pavement, Drake realized he was too late. “I’ll get him later. Let’s go.”

He and Mick ran into a bathroom, closing the door behind them in the nick of time before the police charged into the building. They escaped through a window, and luck was once again on Drake’s side. He and Mick landed in an empty alley.

Running the opposite direction of the army of police, they alerted Julie and Wiz which way they were headed. Moments later, they were safe, driving away from the scene in the van.

“That was a little too close,” Julie said. “But good job, team. The French president is safe.”

“Thanks to Drake’s quick thinking.” Mick slapped him on the shoulder.

His words cut Drake deep. He’d let his emotions jeopardize not just his freedom but Mick’s. One second later, they’d both have been carted away by the French authorities, their careers with the CIA over. The Agency would never claim them. That was the deal everyone who worked covert operations agreed to when they signed up. They were on foreign soil and would end up in a French prison, likely for the rest of their lives.

When Wiz parked in spot sixty-two, Drake was anxious to check on Chance, so he was the first out of the van.

Chance was sitting in a chair. Doc was standing next to him. They were watching the television, which was replaying footage of the events at the ribbon cutting.

Chance turned to Drake as the rest of the team came into the room. “Looks like the police took care of Kuusik for us.”

“What are you talking about?” Drake looked at Doc. “Is he still under the influence of the drugs?”

“Nope. We just saw it.” Doc pointed the remote at the TV.

The image of a young officer filled the screen. Under the image was the English closed caption.

“You are a hero,” the female reporter said.

“No, madam. Just doing my job. When I saw the killer aim for the president, I just reacted like any of my fellow officers would have. I fired.”

“And you were so far away on the street. You are an incredible marksman.”

The officer clumsily grabbed the microphone from her.

Drake shook his head. “That guy couldn’t fire his way out of a wet paper sack.”

“I fired several shots, hoping I would hit him.” The officer grinned. “Thankfully, I was successful.”

“Liar! That son of a bitch is taking credit for Drake’s shot,” Mick said.

Chance grinned. “So Drake is the one who got him, not this up-and-coming officer.”

“That’s at least one good thing. Leaves us out of it.” Julie was in her full-blown CIA supervisor mode. She liked missions that were neat and tidy, and this one was far from that. “Is Kuusik dead or in custody?”

“Neither,” Chance said.

Doc muted the sound. “The police did find blood at the scene, but no sign of Kuusik.”

Drake paced around the room. “No doubt he is already being slipped out of the country. The bastard got away. We failed.”

“This isn’t a failure, Drake, just a setback,” Julie said. “We’ll find Kuusik. I need to update Langley about the situation, and then I’m going back to the hotel.”

“I’ll drive you.” Mick grabbed the keys from Wiz. “I could use a shower.”

“Me, too.” Wiz smiled. “And I’m good with your driving. Are you coming, Drake?”

“No. I’m staying here with Chance.”

“Good,” Doc said. “I’m starving. Haven’t eaten all day. You can keep an eye on this difficult patient. I’ll be back soon.”

After everyone left and the coast was clear, Drake sat down next to Chance. “I’m so glad you’re okay, sweetheart.” He leaned over to give him a kiss, but Chance turned his head away.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing? Have you forgotten we’re no longer a couple? I told you I wasn’t taking your games anymore.”

“But, sweetheart, I—“

“Don’t ‘I’ me, Drake. We’re done. Over. Kaput.”

“Please, sweetheart. Just listen to—“

“I’m done listening. I’m done period.”

“So you don’t want to hear that I want to live with you for the rest of my life.”

“I don’t want to hear any... What?”

“I want to live with you for the rest of my life.”

Chance’s big blue eyes widened. “You do?”

“Oh, yes. I’ve been a dumb ass, Chance. I finally get what you’ve been trying to tell me. I get it now. God, what an idiot I’ve been. No more. You’re all that matters to me. I swear.” Drake sighed. “Such a damn jerk. You deserved so much better. A moron. An imbecile.“

Chance grinned. “Will you please just shut up and lean over and kiss me?”

Drake pressed his mouth to Chance’s lips. As the kiss deepened, he could feel red-hot passion for Chance building inside him. “I want you, sweetheart.”

“Honey, I wish I could but I can’t.”

“Don’t worry. I’ve got this.” He gently kissed his neck. “You just relax, enjoy, and let me take the pain away.”

“I’d like that.”

Drake got down on his knees in front of Chance, lifting his hospital gown, revealing his thick, long cock. “God, I’ve missed this.”

“So have I.”

Drake licked Chance’s dick, wrapping his hand around his heavy balls. “Is this okay, sweetheart? I’m not hurting you?”

“God, no.” Chance laughed. “Honey, you’re a better physician than Doc will ever be.”

“I’m going to be slow and careful, but if anything I do hurts you, tell me.”

“I will, you fool. Will you just stop talking and keep going?”

“What my patient wants, my patient gets.” Drake swirled his tongue around Chance’s tip, finding a little tasty drop that hinted at more hot passion to come.

Swallowing Chance felt like coming home. How he’d missed him, missed this.

“Damn, that feels so good. Don’t stop, honey. Don’t ever stop.”

He wasn’t planning on it. Squeezing his balls, he sucked hard, hollowing out his cheeks.

Chance moaned.

Instantly, he let go of him with his mouth and hands. “Are you okay?”

“I’m okay, but damn, you’re going to have to start all over.”

“My pleasure.” He slowly kissed Chance’s muscled thighs, working back to his hard dick and loaded balls.

He bathed every inch with his tongue, relishing the taste of the man he loved, the man he would spend the rest of his life with.

“Oh, yes. That’s it. Ahhh.”

His passionate tone thrilled Drake, driving him wild. But he knew he couldn’t unleash all his lust. He might hurt Chance. Gently, he resumed sucking on his cock. Up and down. Again and again.

“I’m coming, honey. I’m com... Ohhh!”

Drake sealed his lips around Chance’s shaft, not wanting a single drop to be wasted. When he felt cream hit the back of his throat, he drank like a man who’d been dying of thirst. That’s exactly what he had been doing since the breakup. Dying of thirst. Dying because of the breakup. Now that he was back with Chance, he would never feel that way again.

When Chance tugged on his hair, he asked, “You okay?”

“You don’t have to keep asking me that. I’m fine. I want one little taste of you. I know I can’t do more than that, but could I please have you in my mouth for just a little bit?”

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea in your current condition.”

“Please, honey. Just let me taste you. I have to taste you. It’s been so long.”

Unable to resist, Drake stood up. “Just a little bit.” He pointed at his own chest. “That’s this doctor’s orders, understand?”

“Yes. Yes. Okay. Unzip. Now, before I rip off those damn pants myself.”

He grinned, feeling his cock stiffen. Chance’s playfulness in bed was something he’d missed most of all. Pulling down the zipper, he released his cock and directed it to Chance’s hungry mouth.

“Mmm,” Chance’s lusty tone was the best music in the world.

“Okay. Okay. That’s all.”

“No. Just a little more.”

“More will come later. Much more.” Drake stepped back, holding on to his erect cock. “First, let’s focus on your recovery.”

Hearing the door to the room open behind him, Drake quickly stuffed his junk back into his pants.

“How’s my patient doing?” Doc asked.

Now fully zipped up, Drake turned around. “He’s doing great.”

“Yeah, Doc. I’m doing great. You left me in really good hands.”

“I knew you would be okay. Let me check your vitals.”

Drake winked at Chance, a silent sign that conveyed I think we pulled it off.

“Huh. Your blood pressure is elevated. I’m not sure why.”

“Uh... I just took a little walk around the room with Drake’s help.”

“A little walk.” He smiled. “I haven’t heard it called that before. It’s a little soon for...walking.”

* * *

INGLESIDE, VIRGINIA

Chance sat in the passenger seat of Drake’s car, waiting impatiently for him to get one more box of his things. Drake had been adamant that he wasn’t to lift a finger. Chance loved him for all his concern, but he really did feel great and capable.

He smiled. It hadn’t been that long ago when he’d thought their relationship was over for good. Now? They were talking about getting a bigger place, and Drake was trying to convince him to adopt a dog. How could he be any happier?

Chance’s phone rang. “Hey, Doc.”

“I called to let you know that all your tests came back perfect. So I’m going to release you to resume your life the way it was.” Doc chuckled. “You know, the walk you and Drake did back in Paris. Knock yourselves out. Run a marathon.”

“Thanks, Doc. I’ve been anxious to get more steps on my Fitbit.”

“I bet you have. I’ll also let Julie know you’re ready to resume your duty.”

Chance sighed. “Thanks, but we’re still benched.”

“Yeah, we are. Damn. I wonder how long Collins will drag out his witch hunt.”

“Too long, I bet.” He saw Drake approaching with a box. “Drake’s back, Doc. I can’t wait to tell him the good news. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

After placing the box in the trunk with his other boxes, Drake got behind the wheel.

“Honey, you’re going to love the news I have for you as much as I did.”

“We’re not benched anymore?”

“No. It’s better than that. It’s time for a celebration.”

Drake smiled. “That was Doc on the phone. He released you, didn’t he?”

Chance nodded and then leaned over and kissed him. “And I know just what we need to celebrate. That bottle of wine Emily bought me for my last birthday.”

“Your sister definitely knows how much you love Pinot Noir.”

“She knows we both love it.”

“How about we stop and get some takeout from Antonio’s Pizzeria?”

“After. I’ve been dying to make love to you since Paris. Let’s go home first.”

“You’ve always known how to pull a plan together. And you’re not the only one who’s been dying to make love.” Drake revved the engine. “Fasten your seat belt, sweetheart. We’re late for a very important date.”

As Drake raced down the road, Chance laughed. “You might want to slow down a little, because I’d like to get there in one piece.”

“You’re right. You just got me excited.”

When Drake merged onto the George Washington Memorial Highway, they saw a sea of brake lights in front of them.

“Damn,” Drake said. “There must be a wreck ahead.”

“It’s going to be at least twenty minutes before we get back to my...I mean our apartment.”

”I like that. Our apartment. Have you thought any more about looking for a new place for us? I really want a yard for the dog.”

“I’m good with a bigger place, but I’m not sure about adopting a dog. The team won’t be benched forever.”

“We will if Collins gets his way.”

Drake was right about that. Not only did Collins want to disband the Rainbow Knights, he believed there should never be any LGBT officers in the entire agency. What a bigot. Collins was taking advantage of Kuusik’s disappearance, using it to undermine Director Maddow. Chance didn’t care for Agency politics, but he knew that the team’s future was in jeopardy as long as Kuusik was free. There wasn’t anything he, Drake, Julie, or the others could do. Even their weapons would not be returned until Collin’s investigation about the Paris mission was complete. The bastard’s smug tone had infuriated Chance during their debriefing. “There is no doubt that a mole inside the Agency tipped off Kuusik. I believe my investigation, once complete, will prove that the leak came from inside Julie’s group of misfits.”

Drake kept one hand on the steering wheel while taking Chance’s hand with the other. “Sweetheart, Emily loves dogs. I’m sure she would be thrilled to puppy sit if we ever get to go on another assignment together again.”

“Just let me ask her first.”

“Confession. I already did, and she told me she would love to.” The rest of the trip home, Drake continued making his case for having a dog.

What a change Chance had seen in him. Before, Drake had been commitment shy about everything. It had been quite the undertaking to get him to exchange keys. Now, Drake was ready to jump in and start building their future together. It was a dream that had come true for Chance. Drake was his dream.

Once Drake parked the car, he jumped out, ran ahead, and yelled back, “We’ll get the boxes later. Come on.”

Chance laughed. “Oh, yeah. The plan.”

He ran after him.

They both got to the apartment at the same time, each with their keys out. Since the sun had already set and his porch light was off, it was difficult to see the lock.

Drake stepped back. “Go ahead.”

“No. You. This is your place too.”

“My place. Your place. Unlock the damn door before I take you right here on the steps.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“Oh, no?” He grinned wickedly. “Just try me.”

Feeling heat roll through his entire body, Chance used his key to unlock the door.

They rushed inside.

Drake pushed him against the wall, kissing his lips and stripping off his clothes.

“Oh, no you don’t. Paris was your turn. This is mine.” Chance turned the tables, ripping off Drake’s shirt, sending the buttons skating across the floor.

Now shirt free, they kissed each other hungrily as they made their way to the bedroom. They were full-throttle, blasting into sex from zero to a thousand in the blink of an eye.

Not taking the time to turn the lights on, they frantically peeled off the rest of their clothes and landed in the middle of the bed, caressing each other’s bodies.

Chance gazed at Drake’s big brown eyes, illuminated by the full moon’s rays coming in through the window.

“I love you so much, Chance.”

Hearing those words made him feel such overwhelming desire, such unrelenting want, and such primal energy. He opened his nightstand and retrieved some condoms and the bottle of lube.

“You’re mine, Drake McLeod. All mine.”

“Yes. I’m yours.”

“Forever.” Chance grabbed Drake and pulled him in close, devouring his mouth.

Drake parted his lips, inviting him to go deeper.

Chance sent his hungry tongue into his mouth as he reached down and wrapped his hand around Drake’s hard cock, another part of him he wanted to taste. But he couldn’t stop kissing him yet. As their tongues tangled together, he felt his pulse heat up inside his veins. God, his man knew how to kiss.

As his lips throbbed from the continued friction with Drake, Chance realized if he let himself go, this mind-blowing and body-igniting kiss would push him over the edge to release. He wasn’t going to let that happen. He had other plans for Drake. Wicked plans that would cause his man to demand more, which he would gladly deliver.

Inhaling his scent, Chance began slowly nuzzling his neck and tenderly nipping at his earlobe. Drake’s masculine aroma hypnotized him. How he’d missed his addiction, his smell of leather and spice. The more he inhaled Drake’s essence, the more greedy lust surged through him, but he reined in his own desire, determined to give Drake every pleasure and want he’d ever dreamed of with the two of them together.

“God, that feels so good, sweetheart.”

“You feel so good.” Chance tightened his hand around Drake’s cock while sliding down to dine on his chest, remembering how sensitive his nipples were.

“Mm.” Drake’s lusty moans were music to his ears, causing his own cock to throb and his balls to get heavy.

He tightened his lips around one of Drake’s nipples and was rewarded with a hot groan.

“Sweetheart, I’m not sure I can hold back much longer,” Drake panted out. “It’s been so long.”

“Take a deep breath, baby, because I have so much more to give you.”

“I’ll try.” He inhaled deeply. “Damn, Chance. You are my wild man.”

Keeping a tight hold on Drake’s cock, Chance swirled his tongue around his nipple and then began slowly kissing a trail down his frame, enjoying his rock-solid body and six-pack abs.

When he got between his legs, Chance kissed the head of his cock, bathing his own lips in Drake’s salty drop of pre-cum. Cuddling Drake’s balls with one hand and fisting his shaft with the other, Chance swallowed his man’s cock.

“Fuck. Your mouth is like heaven. Damn.” Drake tugged on his hair. “I can’t. Please, sweetheart. I’ve got to taste you.”

Loving the anxious excitement in his tone, Chance kept on sucking but spun around so that his cock was positioned next to Drake’s mouth.

When Drake’s lips slid down his dick, Chance felt something that went beyond anything he’d ever experienced before. He knew at this very moment they were one. He’d always felt connected to Drake, but this...this was on a level far stronger and permanent. Transcendent. Nothing would ever separate them again. Their love would last for the rest of their lives. Forever.

In complete synch, they thrust their dicks into each other’s thirsty mouths.

Chance sensed his man was getting as close as he was. He hollowed out his cheeks, taking every one of Drake’s eager lunges. The pleasure continued, ramping up and up, pushing him to the very edge.

Unable to hold back any longer, he grabbed Drake’s ass and gulped down every bit of him. In unison, they came, shooting cream down each other’s throat.

Breathing heavily, Chance flipped around, bringing his lips to Drake’s. He pressed gently at first, but then Drake parted his lips, demanding more, which was exactly what he wanted too. He could feel his cock hardening again as he sucked on Drake’s tongue.

“On your stomach, honey,” Chance ordered, grabbing a pillow to put under Drake so that his ass would jut up in the perfect position.

“Like I said before...” He grinned. “You’re my wild man.”

Drake flipped around, placing the pillow just right.

Chance squirted out a generous amount of lube from the bottle onto his hand. He circled Drake’s tight hole with his slicked fingers.

Drake began grinding into the mattress, heightening his own ravenous lust.

Chance slipped his index finger into Drake and was rewarded with a hot moan from him.

“Yes, sweetheart,” Drake breathed. “Yes. Yes.”

He added another finger to the first one and began thrusting into his ass, again and again, stretching Drake out and getting him ready to take more. When his man began thrusting back into his fingers, Chance slipped a condom down his dick.

Applying some lubricant, he fisted himself a few strokes and then got on top of Drake, positioning his cock between Drake’s ass cheeks. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Now get inside me. You’re driving me wild.”

“That’s the plan, baby.” Slowly, he pierced Drake’s body.

“That’s it.” Drake shifted his hips higher, trying to take more of him.

But Chance, despite his own insatiable desires, pulled back slightly. “No, you don’t, baby. I want to drive you mad with passion.”

“Please, Chance. Fuck me. I need more of you inside me.”

After teasing him to a point where neither of them could stand it anymore, Chance began thrusting hard and deep into Drake.

“Ohh. That’s the spot, Chance. Yes. Yes. Yes.”

“Take me, baby. All of me.” He drove even deeper, even harder, his thrusts coming faster and faster.

“I’m so...so...so close.”

Continuing to plunge into him, Chance leaned over Drake and felt his body’s tremors against his skin. “Now, baby. Let’s come together.”

His final thrust was met with Drake shoving his ass back into him, joining their bodies even tighter to one another.

Their simultaneous releases exploded like a volcano that ended with both of them groaning out a primal sound of satisfaction.

After a few breathless moments, they flipped on their sides, facing each other.

Drake smiled. “That was...was...amazing.”

“Yes, it was.”

“No. You don’t understand what I mean. You and I have made love many times and it was always great, but I’ve never experienced anything like what we just did. Ever. It was beyond wonderful, exciting, fabulous.” He shook his head. “I don’t know how to explain it to you. Did you feel it?”

Chance grinned. “Yes, honey. I felt it.”

“What’s different now? I’ve always loved you.”

“Yes, you have. But Drake, you know you were holding back. Now you’re not. Now you’re all in, completely committed to me. And I am completely committed to you. That’s the difference and that’s why it was so incredible.”

“You’re right. That’s it. It’s not just me. Or you. It’s now us.”

“God, I love you.”

Drake kissed him. “I love you too.”

Suddenly, the closet door flew open and Kuusik emerged, aiming a Glock at the duo. “I enjoyed the show but this is getting sickening.”

He and Drake sat up.

“Don’t move, gentlemen.”

“Hello, Kuusik.” Chance assessed the situation, which was far from optimal. He and Drake were naked, on the bed, and under the covers without any weapons. “We weren’t expecting you. Do you mind if we get some clothes on?”

“Nice try, CIA. Both of you stay right where you are and don’t make any sudden moves.”

“You’re obviously here for a reason.” Drake used his toe to tap out a Morse code message on Chance’s leg. Your gun?

“Of course I’m here for a reason.”

Chance tapped back: Nightstand.

Kuusik took a step closer to the bed but remained out of reach.

Drake sent the message: I’ll distract. “You’re pissed about Paris, aren’t you?”

“Pissed?” The killer laughed. “I don’t get pissed.”

As Kuusik continued talking, Chance began easing—slowly so as not to alert the killer of his movements—to his nightstand.

“I’m too practical for that, McLeod,” Kuusik said. “Besides, your lucky shot was only a flesh wound.”

“That is your reputation, but you must have lost a bundle after we stopped you from completing your contract to kill the French president.” Drake swung his legs off the bed.

“I said don’t move!” Kuusik took another step in Drake’s direction, which gave Chance his lucky break.

He grabbed his Smith & Wesson and fired off a nonlethal shot that hit Kuusik in the shoulder.

As he’d expected at this close range, Kuusik was knocked off his feet.

Chance and Drake pounced on top of him, forcing the gun out of the bastard’s hand.

“Get off me, motherfuckers.” Kuusik tried to break free of their hold but to no avail.

“Not happening, pervert,” Drake said. “You got cuffs, sweetheart?”

“I sure do.” Keeping his gun aimed at Kuusik, Chance returned to the nightstand and pulled out the handcuffs.

Using a belt to wrap around Kussik’s ankles and the handcuffs on his wrists behind his back, they secured the asshole to a chair.

“That was too easy,” Chance said, hoping to get under Kuusik’s skin. “Drake, you want to be good cop or bad cop?”

“Bad cop, of course.” Drake tossed him his jeans and turned on the light. “This motherfucker’s men shot you in Paris at the club. You could have died. I can’t wait to pound him into hamburger meat.”

Chance knew that Drake wasn’t lying, but he was professional. While he would love to rip Kuusik apart, he wouldn’t unless it was necessary.

Kuusik’s eyes widened. “You’re Americans. You have to follow the law.”

Drake leaned in close to him. “Americans? Yes. But we’re also CIA. Some laws don’t apply, especially to asshole assassins like you.”

“The orders are clear, honey. We can bring him in dead or alive. It’s your decision, Kuusik.”

The bastard squirmed in the chair, which was a clear indication that he and Drake were getting to him.

They were both trained in all kinds of interrogation methods. This was just one of them.

“Maybe we should both be bad cops tonight.” Chance pulled on his jeans. “I would really enjoy getting in some hits on your ugly face, but I’ll start out easy on you. How did you know this was my apartment?”

“I have my sources, CIA.”

Drake punched him in the throat, causing Kuusik to sputter and gasp. “If you’re evasive with your answers, this is going to be a very long night.”

Kuusik coughed and glared at him. “Fuck you.”

“Allow me, honey.” Chance punched him in the face, which felt so satisfying.

Kuusik spit out blood. “Fuck you too.”

They were getting nowhere. Chance knew they needed to change tactics but wasn’t sure how.

“We only ask because we already know how you tracked down this apartment.” Drake pulled his shirt off the floor and put it on, buttoning it up very slowly.

“Bullshit.”

Drake looked away from Kuusik to him and laughed, which Chance knew was all part of the game.

Chance returned the laugh. “He doesn’t know.”

Where was Drake going with this technique? Chance wasn’t sure but was following his lead, anxious to find out.

“Our team figured it out,” Drake said. “It was so easy to connect the dots. Paris. The French president’s assassination. Who would benefit the most? And then you coming to the US to track us down?”

Chance looked at Drake and realized he’d already put something together in his mind. This wasn’t a ruse. He’d actually connected the dots. What were they?

Drake continued, leaning in close to Kuusik once again. “That would take someone with a great deal of authority who could pull strings to get you in the country undetected.”

“You’re bluffing. You don’t know a damn thing.”

“No, Kuusik. You don’t know a damn thing. Collins is in custody.”

Kuusik’s nostrils flared, an obvious tell that Drake had hit the target.

Collins wasn’t in custody, but Drake had figured out he had to be the mole.

Chance kept the expression on his face flat, though he was reeling with the new information. It all made sense now. “We know everything, Kuusik. Collins has already confessed.”

Drake sent him a wink before turning back to their captive. “If you had succeeded in Paris, the relationship between the CIA and France’s DGSE would have been strained. Since Director Maddow has put so much weight into working with other agencies around the world, she would have been on thin ice with the current US president, giving Collins an opening to make a move to take her position. He also would have had the added benefit to discredit our team. But you didn’t succeed.”

The whole picture filled in for Chance. “That’s when Collins sent you here to take us out. He has benched our team. He’s the one with the grudge, not you. You’re too practical for that.”

“So, Kuusik, you have a choice.” Drake sat on the bed, tying his shoes. “Collins has given you up and there will be no more paydays for you. Easy or hard?” Drake looked at Chance and smiled. “Is that all right with you, sweetheart?”

“I really hope he chooses hard.” He slammed his fist into his hand. “I could go all night.”

“Okay. Okay.” Kuusik turned white with fear. “Fuck Collins. I’ll tell you everything. Just don’t hurt me.”

“That’s the right choice, though I am a bit disappointed.” Chance hit the record icon on his phone. “Start at the beginning.”

* * *

CIA HEADQUARTERS, LANGLEY, VIRGINIA

Chance sat in the conference room with Director Maddow, Julie, and Drake. The door opened and he saw the man they’d been waiting for walk in.

Collins had a stocky five-foot-eight frame, receding hairline, and thick eyebrows.

He frowned. “What’s going on, Amanda? You can’t reinstate Rainbow Knights until I finish my investigation. That’s protocol.”

“Please. Have a seat, Peter.” The director stood and motioned to the empty chair between him and Drake. “We have some new intel to share with you.”

Chance was impressed at how cool Maddow could be in this situation, but he wasn’t surprised. She’d come up through the ranks at the Agency, proving her skills again and again.

“Fine. But I have a meeting with Senators Samuels and Reed in forty-five minutes. Make it quick,” he said with blatant disrespect before taking his seat.

“I think you’ll find this very enlightening,” Julie said in a flat tone that kept her real motive hidden. If the director was cool, Julie was ice when necessary.

Maddow returned to her chair. “You’ve made it very clear to me and to your buddies on Capitol Hill how much you want to eliminate the Rainbow Knights team.”

“That’s common knowledge. Homosexuals have no place in the Agency. They are a liability.”

“I think you will find it interesting, Collins, that these two homosexuals brought in Kuusik.”

“What? When?”

“A few hours ago.”

Collins’s nostrils flared. “These two aren’t released for duty yet.”

“True, but I think we can make an exception since the assassin broke into their home.” She clicked the remote.

Kuusik’s image appeared on the large flat-screen in the room.

Per the plan, Drake remained seated while Chance stood and moved behind Collins. Both he and Drake reached for their guns.

“As you can see, they are interrogating him now, but we already know that Kuusik was working for you.”

Collins panicked, started to rise, and reached for his weapon inside his jacket.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Chance shoved his Glock’s barrel into the traitor’s back.

Drake easily retrieved Collins’ gun, slammed him into the chair, and cuffed his wrists. “There’s more you need to hear, asshole. Much more.”

“Officer McLeod is correct.” Julie smiled. “The State Department and the Swiss government have frozen the bank account you paid him from. We know the balance is ten million dollars.”

“Ten million dollars, Peter?” Maddow shook her head. “I’m sure when Julie’s team digs deep they’ll uncover all kinds of illegal activities you’ve been involved in.”

“Fuck you, bitch.”

“Actually, you’re the one who is fucked.” The director buzzed in the other officers, who immediately took Collins away.

The bastard’s rants and curses never stopped.

When the door closed, they returned to their seats.

“That was quite satisfying.” Maddow looked at Julie. “Now, about the other item we need to discuss with McLeod and Nicholls.”

“Other item?” Chance asked.

Julie slid two folders in front of them.

“I don’t have to open this, Julie. I know what it’s about already.” Drake stood. “I’ve decided that I’ll leave the field and take a desk job.”

“What are you talking about?” Chase and Julie said in unison.

“Let him speak,” Maddow told them. “Go on, McLeod.”

“It’s obvious that you both know about Chance and me, especially after reading the report where we apprehended Kuusik. Chance and I are together, and we are going to stay that way. So, I’ve made up my mind. Chance is great in the field. He’s the best the Agency has and deserves to remain with Rainbow Knights.”

“Hold on, Drake.” Chance stood and put his arm around him. “If anyone is going to take a desk job, it’s me. Not you.”

“Not either of you,” Julie said. “Do you think you were fooling anyone about your relationship?”

“I think they did, Julie.” Maddow smiled. “But may I remind you both that this is the place that uncovers secrets? We all knew.”

“You both knew.” Drake turned to Chance. “You were right.”

Chance smiled. “Yes, I was.”

“Sit back down, gentlemen,” Maddow said. “Let’s get to the actual item that we need to discuss.”

They took their seats one more time.

“Julie, go ahead.”

“Thank you. Guys, Director Maddow is promoting me to take Collins’s position as deputy director of covert ops.”

“Congratulations,” he and Drake said together.

She smiled. “That leaves my previous position open. Now if you both will please take a look at what’s in front of you, I think you’ll see where I’m going with this.”

Chance and Drake opened the folders and found something that thrilled them both.

“Two co-supervisors for the team?” Drake voiced his own question.

“Has that ever been done before at the Agency?”

“No,” Maddow said. “But neither was an exclusively LGBT covert ops team until just a few months ago. Everyone thought I was nuts to give Julie the green light for the Rainbow Knights. But look what you guys have already done. The French president is alive. A notorious international assassin is in custody. And a mole inside the Agency has been brought to light. And that was just your first mission.”

Julie’s pride showed through her broad smile. “So, officers, what do you say? Will you lead the Rainbow Knights?”

Chance looked at Drake and their eyes locked for a moment. This was so much more than they’d ever hoped for.

“I say yes. What do you say, Drake?”

“Oh, yeah. We’ve already proved we’re an unstoppable team. I have no doubt we’ll be even more formidable as co-supervisors. Definitely yes.”

“Congratulations, men,” Maddow said. “You will still be reporting to Julie.”

“Excellent,” Drake said. “When do we start?”

“Right now.” Julie stood. “I emailed you the files of the new recruits. You need to review them.”

“The team is expanding?” Chance asked.

Julie nodded. “With two supervisors and more men, Rainbow Knights will be able to handle more missions.”

The director’s assistant, a twenty-five-year-old man, entered the room. “I’m sorry to interrupt, but I have the French minister of defense on your secure line.”

“Thanks, Tim. Julie, this will be a good time to get your feet wet in your new job. Stay.” Maddow looked at Chance and Drake. “You did great work and I expect no less from you in your new positions. We all have work to do. Julie and I will circle back with you later today.”

As they walked out of the director’s office, Chance grabbed Drake and planted a big kiss on him. “This is better than we both thought.”

“That’s for sure, sweetheart. On the way home tonight let’s stop at Antonio’s for dinner to celebrate.”

“Well, that’s one way to celebrate.”

Drake laughed. “I like your plan better.”

* * *

Drake took one more glance at his tuxedo in the mirror.

Mick looked out the window at Director Maddow’s decked-out backyard, which was filled with CIA officers. “Quite the crowd you guys drew today.”

“The more people who come the more nervous I’m getting.”

Mick laughed. “Suck it up, McLeod. This is child’s play compared to what you’ve seen in the field.”

“Really? I don’t get nervous in the field. There’s no comparison. Besides, you’re the one who doesn’t believe in relationships, and I’m guessing that’s because you might actually be terrified of them.”

“This isn’t about me, Drake.” Mick’s tone sharpened for a moment. “This is your big day. And yes, I’m not a big believer in relationships—at least not for me. For you and Chance? You two are meant for each other.”

The band hit the opening chord.

“That’s your cue, buddy, to get into position.”

He nodded and they walked to the den’s double doors, which led to the backyard, and found Chance and Wiz.

“Sweetheart, you look incredible.” Drake took Chance’s hand.

“You just saw me last night, honey. I haven’t changed.” Chance had demanded they follow wedding protocol and not see each other until it was time to get married. “But I missed you so much. And you’re the one who looks incredible.”

“Yeah. Yeah.” Mick smiled. “You both look gorgeous. Pay attention. You’re up.”

The band started the wedding march and Wiz and Mick opened the double doors for them.

Drake and Chance walked hand in hand down the red carpet to the wedding arch covered with multicolored spring flowers. They stepped up to Julie, who was officiating the service.

“We are gathered here to witness a special occasion, the marriage of Drake McLeod and Chance Nicholls. They are two of the finest and bravest men I’ve ever known. Gentlemen, please take each other’s hand.”

As they clasped each other’s hand, Drake stared at the man he would spend the rest of his life with. He couldn’t remember ever being happier.

“Drake and Chance have written their own vows.” Julie turned to Chance. “Go ahead.”

Drake could feel the slight tremor in Chance’s hands, letting him know that he was nervous too. “You’ll do great,” he whispered to him.

“I can’t imagine a life without you in it. You’re the dream, Drake. My dream. Together we’ll build a life, a future. With you in my life, I have everything. No matter what comes our way, I promise to stand beside you. I love you, honey, and choose you to be my husband, and I offer myself in return.”

Drake was overcome with emotion at Chance’s words. “Hard act to follow, but I’ll try.”

Everyone laughed, including Chance.

“I almost blew it, sweetheart, and lost you for good. The luckiest day in my life was the day I met you. I remember thinking how gorgeous and sexy you were. I was right, but I didn’t realize then how amazing you are. I do now with all my heart and mind. I don’t deserve you, but I am happy as hell that I get to marry you. I swear, now that I have you I will never let you go. I love you, Chance. Now and forever.”

After the exchange of rings, Julie said, “By the power vested in me by the Commonwealth of Virginia, it gives me great honor to pronounce you, Drake McLeod, and you, Chance Nicholls, legally married.”

Drake and Chance kissed and everyone, including Director Maddow and their entire Rainbow Knights team, cheered.

Suddenly, several cell phones started buzzing simultaneously, which Drake knew could only mean one thing.

He looked at the secured text about the new risk in Asia and turned to his husband. “I love you but—“

“But our country needs us. The honeymoon has to wait,” Chance said. “I’ll call my sister to get her set up to watch the dog. You assemble the team.”