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Free Reads!! Wednesday Briefs – Innocence & Carnality Part 42

Welcome to the next part in my Wednesday Briefs flash fiction serial, Innocence & Carnality! Each chapter has to be between 500 and 1,000 words and this week I chose the to skip the prompt.

Welcome back to Delaga House, Nathan.

Click here to start from the beginning

Part 42

“What is this?” I asked in a near whisper. A solemn hush accompanied the unfamiliar hidden passage. Rother nudged me along, preventing my reluctance.

“The viewing hall,” Rother said.

Without gaslights, the ambient glow came from the row of interior windows. Their position would have to look into separate rooms rather than view the outdoors. Spaced equally, each had an unremarkable door as a companion. I realized the hallway’s path took us behind the floor’s apartments.

Not far away, one of the other bouncers peered into a window, judged the interior, and moved on to the next in a slow, methodical pattern. I glanced into the first portal, stiffening as I found myself staring into a debauched scene of Vivian on her knees entertaining a patron. I refused to turn my head, convinced Rother wouldn’t approve no matter how hard I blushed.

“Why would you have this?”

“To protect our interests and the staff.”

A sordid thought of Mr. Lorings came forward. “How often do customers get out of line?”

“Not often. But it happens. There’s always someone watching just in case.”

Rother’s touch to my waist signaled our continued trek. It didn’t require much to move me away from Vivian’s work. The next room had a man and woman engaged in more carnal interaction. I regarded the coupling, both staff and client laughing and grunting. Their cavalier attitude towards fornication both scandalized and enthralled me. Clearly unattached, they enjoyed each other’s company in a fashion reserved for passionate lovers. For a price.

“Do they know?”

“I imagine some of them suspect. The mirrors only work in one direction and the door is camouflaged as a closet. If we stay reasonably quiet, the illusion holds. We have a service to perform.”

The next room featured two men of differing age brackets. The gentleman was rugged, yet clean cut and he pounded into the younger male with a vigor to shame Blythe. The intensity and ecstasy etched on their faces threatened to arouse me.

“This rather virile man is our Head Constable. His wife stopped all physical intimacy between them after the rather difficult birth of their sixth child five years ago. A devoted family man, he came to me two years ago when all his attempts to repair that side of his marriage failed. Occasionally sating his needs here keeps him from seeking a mistress who would want more from him.”

Absorbing Rother’s words, I watched being reminded of walking in on Harston and Blythe. However, the officer held the boy bent over by the hips, yet worked for minimal contact during his rutting with his eyes closed.

“He’s trying to avoid intimacy.”

“Unleashing into the boy allows him to stay true to his wife.”

“I doubt his wife would see it the same.”

“She’s not my client and he believes this will keep his marriage from collapsing. I admit, it’s a fragile reasoning, but not my place to unravel.”

“So we provide physical pleasure without the risk of personal entanglement?”

“Among other scenarios, yes.”

“What other scenarios?”

Rother gestured to continue down the hall. We passed three more rooms, each with some variation of men and women engaged with one another. Having grown up where such freedom was denied me, I found the all-male groupings the most fascinating. I understood their need to act out their hedonism in a safe place away from the public. The more I saw, the more my pulse quickened.

Until arriving at Delaga House, I’d only seen myself undressed in the mirror and afterwards my exposure to nudity was limited. All this bare skin and voyeurism left an erratic charge under my skin

The next room, however, dampened my building ardor.

Decorated into some poor medical office with an examination table, desk and outdated equipment—no doubt to be used as props—an older man sat dressed in a child’s bonnet, brandishing a giant lollipop. A staff member dressed as a doctor pressed a listening device to the chest of the “child” without being in his ears.

“The gentleman is the Chief Magistrate. This is his escape from the rigors of his position. Some of us handle stress in different ways.”

The doctor had the “child” lay back removing the man-sized diaper as he performed his dubious medical examination, revealing a hairless groin topped by a stubby, hard penis. The man played his infantile role well, arms and legs flailing in the air, even as the doctor pulled out a salve and began stroking his stubby erection.

“Did your nanny ever treat you this way?” Rother asked.

“I refuse to entertain that suggestion.” My unimpressed tone proved I was not amused by Rother’s idea or the disturbing scenario of physician molestation playing out before us. “This man needs professional help.”

Rother’s normally stoic facade held back a smile. “Looks like he’s getting it.”

I stepped away from the scene before it could scar me further. The sense of revulsion became less as seconds passed without it in my view. I centered myself quicker than I would have expected. It was small comfort, but I accepted it. Even after, my hands continued to tremble, so I shoved them into my pockets and turned on my husband.

“Why are you showing me this?”

“So you understand our role is more than simply procuring sex for our customers. They give us their money and trust and we keep their secrets. Men who bury their hidden natures tend to self-destruct in spectacular ways. Not all of it’s pleasant, but it is necessary. It’s a beneficial position for both sides and critical to my success.” Rother’s sounded more like a cold tutor rather than a supportive husband, but I was determined to learn all I could. I had never been so horrified by a subject I wanted to absorb.

“And what do you do with this carnal knowledge?”

“We’ll get to that. But there’s more. This next encounter is one I specifically wanted you to see.”

Check back next Wednesday for the next installation… Be sure to take a read at the other briefers free reads this week here: Wednesday Briefs

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Before today, I wasn’t aware of Anzac Day, but since my publisher, Wayward Ink Publishing is based in Australia, it makes sense to honor the event. Want to know more? Read below:

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Free Reads!! Wednesday Briefs – Innocence & Carnality Part 41

Welcome to the next part in my Wednesday Briefs flash fiction serial, Innocence & Carnality! Each chapter has to be between 500 and 1,000 words and this week I chose the to skip the prompt.

Welcome back to Delaga House, Nathan.

Click here to start from the beginning

Part 41

“Nathan, we’re here.”

I opened my eyes a sliver to the gruff voice. Delaga House approached through the window. The late carriage ride had lulled me into a much needed sleep and I relished the warm, comfortable cushion beneath me. Firm with just the right yield, it was perfect. When the cushion inhaled and exhaled, I startled myself wide awake.

Blythe snickered at me as I sat up straight, trying to banish the sudden awkwardness. “Sleep well, princess?” He returned his arm to his side from its position from around my shoulder.

Lovely. As if Rother needed fresh fuel for his jealousy.

“Oh, do be quiet,” I hissed. As always, Blythe seemed nonplussed by my reaction.

It was still dark out with the first fringes of dawn creeping into the sky as Blythe paid the driver. It sped away and I forced myself to step forward. What waited for me indoors terrified me. Blythe nudged me along, or I might not have found the nerve to continue.

Delaga House was silent. No clients roamed the halls, having long since moved on. The only proper light left on came from the salon, where we found Rother, drink in hand.

Sprawled on the chaise, he followed our entrance with scrutiny. Hard creases marred his handsome face, drawing lines of exhaustion across him. Otherwise, he gave up nothing, leaving me with no reading of his mood, which I could likely guess.

“I found him easily enough. Unharmed and untouched,” Blythe said.

“Thank you, Blythe.”

I hated being spoken about instead of spoken to. “Rother—”

“Go to bed. I’ll deal with you later,” he said.

I wanted to talk, but could hear the finality in his voice. I’d wounded him by leaving, but in all fairness, he hurt me first. Despite the scorecard, any conversation would come tomorrow at the earliest. Hopefully.

Blythe followed me upstairs at Rother’s instruction until we reached the bedroom. “Thank you for coming for me. I don’t know what I was thinking.”

“It’s my job.” He shook his head, dismissing the idea. “Don’t worry. It’ll all work out.”

Rother didn’t come to our bed. He didn’t speak to me to the next morning or all afternoon once the house resumed its normal activity. I kept to myself, hoping he’d come to our bedroom so we could discuss our situation, to little avail. No one else came to visit either, not even Harston. Whether they were shunning me or following some vindictive edict of Rother’s, I had no idea.

In the early evening, I recognized the noise and bustle of Delaga House preparation. Tonight would line the house with clients and my husband’s pockets with coin. I had a decision to make. Would I stay here outside of the debauchery, or would I take my place alongside it as its co-host? I wasn’t sure I had a position with either option, but needed to do better than my ill-planned flight away. In the end, my duty to my husband cried out over all the indignities.

So I dressed myself to welcome guests into my home to do things I could barely approve of.

Holding my head high, I descended the stairs, drawing the staff’s gaze with each step. At the bottom, Rother’s conversation with Samantha came to a halt. Her approval came with her maternal smile. I wasn’t clear I had his, but I didn’t let that dissuade me.

“Am I to assume you don’t plan on walking out on me this evening?” Rother examined my clothing and manner with a casual air I knew was anything but.

“Am I to assume there won’t be any surprise entanglements?”

Rother cocked his head with a raised brow. “I hadn’t planned on it.”

“Good. Then maybe you can teach me my role here.”

Grinning wide, Samantha caught Rother’s arm. “I need to prepare for my session tonight. Have dinner with your husband before the guests start to arrive. Neither of you has eaten today.”

She sauntered to the stairwell, retracing my path. Rother turned and headed away in the other direction. After taking five steps, he paused and shot me a look.

“You heard the woman. Are you coming?”

I caught up quickly.

Dinner was a quiet affair shared alone on the screen porch so the staff could continue uninterrupted. I hadn’t realized how hungry I was and judging by how Rother devoured his meal, he was no better off.

We spoke little. Painful memories held my tongue. Eventually the bell rang, signaling the night’s beginning.

Rother stood, catching my eye. “We will talk later. For now, there’s business to be done.” I nodded, ready to be educated.

I stood by his side through the first wave of customers. For the next few hours, Rother choose who he greeted with care—most likely the wealthiest—and I politely offered my hospitality, following his lead. He often made veiled comments intended to make me blush, which his guests found adorable.

Our roles were simple, and if one took out the carnal transactions being dealt, it held a clear similarity of a Victorian ball. Easing into being host with its gentile pleasantries and polite exchanges was far easier than I expected. I felt appreciated and useful for the first time in ages.

My favorite part was how Rother and I appeared to set aside the grand issues between us, if only for a short while. I welcomed the distraction.

The evening had been well underway when Rother whispered to me near the stairs. “Come with me. There’s something I want to show you.”

Rother guided me to the third floor where the staff entertained clients. I’d spent almost no time here. He unlocked an unmarked door at the end of the hall—it couldn’t have been more than a closet—exposing a darkened passage. The unusual corridor made me leery, but I was determined to find a glimmer of trust in my husband.

With a gentle hand, he guided me inside.

Check back next Wednesday for the next installation… Be sure to take a read at the other briefers free reads this week here: Wednesday Briefs

Free Reads!! Wednesday Briefs – Innocence & Carnality Part 40

Welcome to the next part in my Wednesday Briefs flash fiction serial, Innocence & Carnality! Each chapter has to be between 500 and 1,000 words and this week I chose the to skip the prompt.

Nathan is rescued?

Click here to start from the beginning

Part 40

The vicar slouched, his eyes wide as Blythe lifted the flask to his nose. With a quick inhale, his normally hard stare turn into a fearsome glower.

“Fuck off, old man before I kick the shit out of you.”

The man scrambled off the bench and raced into the dark as if hell was biting at his heels.

“I wasn’t going to drink it.” I said. “It stank like my mother’s sleeping tonics, only ten times stronger. I was figuring out which of his knees was softest so I could dash away.”

Giving me a dirty look, Blythe emptied the bottle into a nearby shrub and placed it inside his own jacket. While I expected him to snatch me off the ground, he surprised me when he sat beside me and sighed. In relief? I looked forward with my hands in my lap, unsure if I wanted to see any possible judgement on his face.

“How did you find me?”

Blythe leaned back into the bench. “He didn’t snitch, but Harston’s a shit liar and Rother knows how to read people. Your stuff from home came today. It didn’t take much to figure you’d try to go back.”

“Rother sent you?”

“Yeah.”

“But didn’t come himself.”

“He’s busy.”

“Yes, with all things Delaga House.” Why I voiced the obvious wasn’t nearly as confusing as why it disappointed me.

“Samantha was worried and wanted to come, but she’s needed at the house with all the guests.”

“So you drew the lucky card, I see.”

I chanced a glance and found Blythe’s features harder than the shadows should have allowed.

“Are we really that hard to live with?” he asked.

A pang of guilt answered his question inside me, but he needed to know. “Born in Victoria, do you realize how difficult this is for me? Every day, I pray I’ve figured out how to fit in and something comes along that derails my every effort. I have no idea of how to behave or what to expect. I’m lost.”

“You just need to ask us more.”

“I’ve tried! I’m not exactly close to many people. I can ask you about life here. Samantha is endlessly busy, and Rother doesn’t tell me anything past what he thinks I need to know. Beyond that, the rest of the staff aren’t holding out their arms for me.”

“They think it’s all an act.”

“What’s an act?”

“That you’d marry Rother, and be so easily offended.”

I scoffed. “I bet Vivian had a hand in that. Francinian culture breaks a lot of Victorian society rules, but I doubt Delaga House’s standards are common for the entire country. And forgive me if while I was struggling to understand how to be a better Francinian, I didn’t anticipate needing to ask whether my jealous, possessive husband would be sharing the beds of the whores under his employ.”

“That was just business. You expect him to ask for references?”

Images of my husband with others assailed me, making me feel small and worthless. I closed my eyes, hoping Blythe wouldn’t see my weakness, even as I tried to make him comprehend.

“Before Rother, I’d never been so much as kissed. There were no courtships allowed for me and my only examples of wedded bliss were my dysfunctional parents and other socialites. I was taught to be my husband’s second hand and be a gracious host to his guests and business partners. I barely have any idea how to be anything else. Why does everyone expect me to already know what to do? It was all arranged, not a lengthy betrothal. Don’t they understand that?”

“How many whores did you know in high society?”

I shot a flat glare at Blythe. “In Victoria? You’re joking, of course.”

“And that’s it. They still see you as a snob looking down on them. And you still do.”

Air rushed out of my lungs, deflating me. “I don’t try to. I’ve been dropped into the most severe, contrary circumstances. It’s no wonder I’ve exploded so often.”

Blythe snickered. “Oh, they like that part. Shows them all you’re human.”

“It’s just not done in Victoria. And if you say one word about not being in Victoria anymore, I will rough up your boys in a way you won’t find enjoyable.”

Blythe burst out laughing. “See? That’s the spirit I know you have. You can survive this. If you can figure out how to relax, I think you can even find your place with us.”

“Do you really think so?”

“I do. You and Rother have your work cut out for you. But I’d like to think if they ever find out how much money Rother makes, you’d be able to rub your family’s nose in it and maybe make ‘em faint. And seriously, do you really want Vivian to get her way?”

I hated Blythe’s perceptiveness at times. Why couldn’t my bodyguard be a brainless thug? I could write off his ideas as idiocy and ignore them completely. But no, everything had to sound appealing.

“I assume if I refuse to come back, you’ll only throw me over your shoulder and make me anyways?”

Blythe turned to me, his dark eyes pleading. “Don’t make me have to.”

Why I held onto my ludicrous plan for the next few minutes, I couldn’t say. Old school defiance? Ultimately, I gave in with a resigned nod. We stood, Blythe’s hand at my back directing me away from the bench. I refused to admit my backside welcomed it.

“Come on. Getting a carriage back is going to be a chore. You couldn’t run away during the day?”

“And miss out on the chance of being kidnapped by a degenerate priest? Perish the thought.”

We began walking back, away from the light’s false security, yet next to Blythe, I felt safe.

“What you said before to the old man? You were wrong,” he grumbled.

“About which part?”

“About how no one would miss you if you were gone.”

Check back next Wednesday for the next installation… Be sure to take a read at the other briefers free reads this week here: Wednesday Briefs

Free Reads!! Wednesday Briefs – Innocence & Carnality Part 39

Welcome to the next part in my Wednesday Briefs flash fiction serial, Innocence & Carnality! Each chapter has to be between 500 and 1,000 words and this week I chose the to skip the prompt.

Nathan debates his next move, waiting in the dark.

Click here to start from the beginning

Part 39

I told them all I wanted to walk through the garden to clear my head. Everyone knew it was my favorite place in Delaga House, and after the scene in the office, no one questioned it. Lost in the trees and flowers, I watched the sun begin to dip. Not one person came out, or spied on me from the window. The coming activity kept them all distracted. With the chaotic pre-business preparation in progress, I followed along the property’s edge, hiding behind the foliage, until I found the street, apparently unnoticed.

With hurried steps, I made some distance. A few questions to passersby put me in the right direction, but it didn’t take long to realize with my poor knowledge of the area, I would soon be lost. I managed to hire a carriage to keep me moving. The slick driver most likely charged me more than what the ride was worth, but I was in no position to haggle.

Now, I’d sat for several hours in the dark under the streetlight, on a bench in front of the airship dock. With no plan in mind, I’d arrived after hours and would have to wait until morning to travel. Afraid to lose my way, I decided to stay here for the duration.

Far away from Delaga House, in a still unfamiliar city, I didn’t feel I’d really escaped anything.

I checked my pocket watch at regular intervals. It was in the wee hours of the night. Two hours, twenty-five minutes ago, a young couple walked arm in arm across the street, giggling and whispering to one another. Their happiness stabbed me, filling me with jealousy. Why couldn’t their portrait of effortless joy be my marriage? Why did it have to be so difficult?

I hated feeling so childish. Even in Victoria, I never acted out so explosively, so often. Every time I felt my grasp on being part of my new life was becoming secure, something snatched the line out of my hand, sending me adrift. As many new and wonderful things I’d experienced since Rother appeared, just as many shook me to my core. Now, I’d taken a stand and made a choice. I needed to follow through with, didn’t I?

But I didn’t have a clue of what to do next.

I could travel back to Victoria easily enough, but what kind of reception would I have? Could I really convince my father to aid me to avoid the whispers of society? The maneuver would be quite manipulative, and I wasn’t sure I had it in me. Even if my father deserved whatever came his way.

“Listen to yourself,” I whispered to no one as I scrubbed my hands through my hair. “What in the world are you doing, Nathan? Are you ready to trade one life of drama for another?”

Anxiety pricked at me, keeping me wide awake. The last hour alone kept me hearing things in the empty shadows. It did nothing to calm the sensation of eyes upon me. Eventually, the distant noise of shoes scuffing the cobblestones drifted to me, growing slowly louder as they approached.

“Evening, young man.”

Deep lines etched his face, the harsh lamplight making it more severe. Wearing a simple coat, the icons on his scarf and brimless hat marked him as clergy. Stepping slow and weary, he motioned to the bench. “Mind if I sit?”

I nodded. The frail older man took a seat at the far end of the bench. I was thankful for the distance. Francinians often held little regard for personal proximity. I kept watch from my vision’s edge, but he stayed politely to himself. We sat in silence for so long, his next comment nearly startled me.

“You’ve been out here for over three hours.”

“Have I? I hadn’t noticed.” I took my hand from my pocket, leaving my watch inside.

“If you don’t mind me saying, it’s not normal for a boy to be out this late in front of the airship dock. Looks like you’re trying to get away?”

“I suppose so.”

“That bad at home?”

I sighed, trying to release my tension. “Sometimes, no. Others… worse than I ever imagined.”

The man was so unlike the vicars in Victoria with their condescension and animosity. His voice was gentle, despite the rumble from his age, and his thin frame lacked intimidation. Perhaps, with my frayed nerves and weakened resolve, it was the reason I began to answer his questions. Or I needed to hear the voice of someone completely removed from my situation.

“If you go, you sure no one’ll miss you?”

“I doubt it. They’d likely not forgive me for leaving.”

“That’s a shame.” The vicar grunted, titling his head as he assessed me. “Don’t sound like you’re from around here.”

“No. I haven’t been here long.”

“Trying to get out?”

My eyes stung as I shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“Probably should before you do something you can’t take back.”

“It might already be too late.” The crisp night air caused me to shiver. If only in my haste I’d thought of a way to bring a jacket.

“You don’t think there’s a way to mend the fence?”

“I’m not sure. We may have both gone too far this time.”

“You never know.” Reaching into his inside breast pocket, the vicar pulled out a flask. Unscrewing the cap, he held it out. “Here. Have a sip.”

“What is it?” I accepted his unusual offer, peering into the bottle.

“Just a little whiskey. Calm your nerves and warm you a bit.”

I took a sniff. Among the cheap liquor’s vapors was a scent I found all too familiar and it alarmed me. As I decided on how best to refuse the drink and leave, a large hand reached over my shoulder from behind and palmed the flask. His wild scent rolled over me, confirming the fleeting suspicion I’d harbored for the last hour.

“Hello, Blythe.”

Check back next Wednesday for the next installation… Be sure to take a read at the other briefers free reads this week here: Wednesday Briefs

Blog Tour – Home by Donna McIntosh #lgbt #mmromance #excerpt

Author: Donna McIntosh

Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Gay Romance

Length: Novel

Publisher: Wayward Ink Publishing

Synopsis

LAPD Detective Sean Hennessey has one person he’s repeatedly tried to arrest and bring to justice: his nemesis, Mitchell Yates.

Yates has been in and out of trouble for years, always skating around the edges of LA’s underbelly; however, Sean can never pin anything on him.

But one night all of that changes.

Caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, instead of arresting Yates, Sean is rescued by him and taken to Yates’ home—a satellite high above Earth. There, Sean discovers a world he thought possible only in Science Fiction.

Everything he believed he knew about Yates is turned upside down, and Sean must make a decision: to remain with the LAPD or join Yates and work toward intergalactic peace.

Buy Links

WIP: http://www.waywardinkpublishing.com/product/home-by-donna-mcintosh/

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

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Excerpt

At home, Sean carried in his groceries and stored them, before starting his Saturday chores of laundry and cleaning. He ate dinner out. Once back in his apartment, he fixed himself a drink and put on some soft jazz. He needed to sit and think.

His entire world had been turned upside down. He had seen and experienced things he thought were impossible. He had spent time with someone he’d thought of as an enemy and found to be a friend; maybe more than a friend. He stood and paced when he thought of the kiss they’d shared. How could that have happened? Hadn’t he known Yana for years and years? Apparently not. He knew Mitchell Yates, not Yana.

“Yana.” Sean said the name out loud.

Why does the mere thought of him scramble my mind? How can just thinking about him bring such excitement? When I think of Mitchell Yates, I feel nothing. Yet the name “Yana” is a whole different story. It’s like they are two different people! And where did all these strange feelings come from? Haven’t I always preferred the brainless blond, beach boy, Jimmy-types for a few hours’ fun? And anything more serious than that I’d already decided long ago was not in the cards for me.

Sean couldn’t make sense of any of it. How could the green-eyed creature with the thick sable hair capture him so fast and so completely? Was it the tall, lean body, the long legs, or maybe the crooked smile? And what did he see in those eyes that had never been there before?

He went to bed and fell asleep thinking about the kiss, and the delicious mouth that delivered it.

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About the Author

DONNA McINTOSH was born in Elmira, New York, grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, married a Texan and has lived all over Texas for the last thirty-plus years. Donna has four children, ran a Day Care Center for many years and has written fan fiction since she was thirteen.

Donna loves long walks so her mind can ramble. She loves reading and her tastes run from Historical novels, to Sci-Fi, Westerns, Classics, all the way to WWII and biographies. In short, anything that catches her eye.

Donna loves total quiet, very little TV, occasional movies, wildlife, beaches, birds, cats, newborn babies, flowers, and great big smiles. Oh, and hugs!

She hates flying, total darkness, people who talk endlessly about themselves, intolerance, and bigotry.

Donna’s biggest asset?  Her wild and endless imagination.

Her biggest flaw? She’s a Libran and simply cannot make a decision!

DONNA McINTOSH can be found at her website: http://donnamcintosh.weebly.com/

Free Reads!! Wednesday Briefs – Innocence & Carnality Part 38

Welcome to the next part in my Wednesday Briefs flash fiction serial, Innocence & Carnality! Each chapter has to be between 500 and 1,000 words and this week I chose the to skip the prompt.

Nathan comes to a decision.

Click here to start from the beginning

Part 38

I stormed upstairs refusing to catch anyone’s eye. Thankfully, the bedroom was clear when I arrived and I couldn’t close the rest of Delaga House out fast enough.

Seething, I paced about the room, stopping myself short of breaking anything I found within my reach. Everything from my personal clockwork tools to the gaslights to the ornate dressing mirror near the bed was at risk. A maelstrom of emotions left me vibrating and I spun in the center, awash in rage. While I was furious at my husband for his lack of respect, I was equally upset at myself for being so colossally stupid.

Here I was, a newly wed nobleman in a foreign country and somehow I imagined that while I worked to indoctrinate myself into the culture, the culture would shift to allow me in. Expecting it all to step aside so one can merge in, was pure vanity. And the fantasy of my brothel-owning spouse living a virtuous life simply because he wed a virgin? I now understood the definition of idiocy. The sad part is I had to give Rother credit for not trying to disguise his indiscretions. There was a strange honor in his honesty, no matter how misplaced.

I’d told myself Rother’s past didn’t matter. With our age difference, there would be a gap in our experiences, but to no end? I didn’t want to picture my husband with potentially so many others. What would I, a man with no prior carnal knowledge, have to offer in comparison? Could my relative innocence make him happy?

My lessons carved the way. My duty was to support my husband in all ways and I’d held to it with conviction. Deep down, I knew our marriage was not a act of equality. I knew I didn’t hold the same power as Rother.

But it didn’t have to be proven to me this way. Even scandal ridden houses in Victoria managed to find a quiet dignity amongst the aristocratic facades. Their dramas did not play out in front of everyone.

My thoughts continued to whirl, caught between reliving the whole office debacle, and the decision I’d come to from the moment I opened the door to find my husband being pleasured by someone else. It was the only device I had to wound my husband’s pride in an equal fashion.

A persistent knock interrupted my self-recriminations, refusing to stop in spite of my attempts to ignore it. In the end, I opened the door because only one person in this house would respect my right to privacy and refuse to barge in.

“I heard what happened. Are you all right?” Harston asked.

I urged him inside and closed the door behind him. “How did you hear?”

“Vivian wouldn’t stop squawking about it until Samantha snatched her away. Remind me to never upset that woman. I can’t believe you slapped Vivian.”

“I’m not proud of how I lost my temper. No matter how malicious she was being. I’ve never raised my hand to a woman.”

While I felt vindicated Samantha was on my side, my reaction to Vivian’s game left me hollow. The two of us were of similar size, but there was something inherently wrong in how I responded. It’s how I was raised. No matter how many Victorian habits I tried to shed, some would never fade.

“I gather she pushed awfully hard.”

“Of course she did. What else was she born to do? Not that it’s any excuse.”

“You’ve done far worse to your brothers in the past. I dare say she earned it.”

“I appreciate you trying to make me feel better, but can we move the conversation on?”

“Is it true about how you found Rother? Indisposed?”

The ethics of striking Vivian became more enticing, but this topic could hardly be avoided. I could only nod. Anger and humiliation were married far better than I and they stole my tongue.

“What will you do?” he asked.

I drew a deep breath and lowered my voice. “I’m leaving tonight. I can’t face the people of this house after this. I refuse to live the rest of my days as the foolish little boy that Rother married.”

“Where will you go?”

“It’s not much of a choice, but it’s all I have.” I eyed the opened crates still sitting in the center of the room. “Home.”

There would be a scandal with my unannounced arrival, but I wanted to believe my family, even my father, would be willing to help me. Perhaps even annul the marriage to prevent the truth spreading to the other houses. It was all I had to hope for, even if the thought of doing so made me nauseous. I wasn’t sure how I could do this. My confidence forged from shame was welded with a weak torch.

“But what about your possessions? They just arrived.”

“They’re only things. I’ll only take what I absolutely need. I can buy the rest. Will you come with me?”

Hartson almost looked affronted. “Of course. How could you think you even need to ask? I have no intention of abandoning you. Does Rother know?”

“No. And I intend to keep it that way.”

Brow creased, Harston rubbed his chin in thought. “If I’m not there tonight, they may suspect. I can cover for you. They’ll never believe you left without your valet. Go tonight and I’ll follow tomorrow morning before the main staff wakes up.”

“You’re right.” I swept Harston up in a hug. I’d never been so grateful for his presence. “Thank you, Harston. I’d say you’ve become my only friend, but I think you always were whether I realized it or not.”

He hugged me back, his hands shaking as if he didn’t know what to do with them. This was unbroken ground after all. “Stop. I’ll get all weepy.” Pulling apart, Harston stepped to the door with misty eyes and a restrained smile. “Be careful, Nathan. I’ll see you soon.”

Check back next Wednesday for the next installation… Be sure to take a read at the other briefers free reads this week here: Wednesday Briefs

Mini Blog Tour – Mix ‘N’ Match, A Wayward Ink Publishing Anthology

Title: Mix ‘N’ Match

Authors: Layla Dorine, Eddy LeFey, Eric Gober, Asta Idonea, Kevin Caucher, Alina Popescu, A Lusch, Lily Velden, Kassandra Lea, Dale Cameron Lowry

Genre: Gay Romance, Interracial, LGBT

Length: Anthology/Novel-length

Publisher: Wayward Ink Publishing

Synopsis

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Race…

Culture…

Creed…

Become little more than words in the dictionary when the heart sets its sights on its desire.

Join our authors as they explore interracial themes ranging from the challenges of loving someone from another culture to fighting for the right to love at all.

MIX ‘N’ MATCH

Celebrate diversity with us.

Buy Links

Don’t miss the March Sale! All Wayward Ink Titles are 35% off on the WIP website and 30% off on AllRomance, and 30% off on Amazon.

WIP: http://www.waywardinkpublishing.com/product/mix-n-match-a-wayward-ink-publishing-anthology/

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CYM24GE/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01CYM24GE/

Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01CYM24GE/

Amazon DE: http://www.amazon.de/dp/B01CYM24GE/

ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-mix039n039matchawaywardinkpublishinganthology-2000013-166.html

Book trailer

Stories Included

Forbidden

LAYLA DORINE

Sage never imagined a trip down south would lead to so many discoveries.

He also never expected to meet Eugene, who is as different from Sage as north from south.

Two young men from different backgrounds.

Can they find friendship and love while surrounded by those who consider their desires to be forbidden?

Through The Front Door

EDDY LEFEY

A front door could be many things:

Hope, fear, a fresh start, a cold expanse of nothingness.

What will Thomas Ng’s front door mean for Daniel Grimm?

Deceptive Histories

ERIC GOBER

When Miguel falls for Van, he gets caught in the crosshairs of an angry spirit.

A spirit who cursed Van’s family long ago.

Can Miguel and Van break the curse?

Or will their lives end in ruin?

Meschianza Meetings

ASTA IDONEA

Philadelphia, 1778

Lieutenant Penton has two problems: dealing with society functions and hiding his passion for Isaac, a slave.

When invited to assist with preparations for the Meschianza, he sees it as a brief escape from both.

However, the night will prove to have more to offer than he ever would have dreamed possible.

A Hopeless Mirage

KEVIN CAUCHER

After hearing “no rice” enough times, Guy decided to swear off dating apps and men, only to find himself falling for his best friend’s boyfriend.

A Touch of Paradise

ALINA POPESCU

Hauled to work in Hawaii, Tudor has little time to enjoy the island paradise.

His obnoxious friend Radu has it much easier, using his free time to set Tudor up, dangling a willing Hawaiian beauty in front of him.

Having been burned by long-distance relationships before, Tudor stubbornly resists Kahoni’s advances.

But can Tudor be worn down enough to enjoy a touch of paradise?

A Surprising Service

A LUSCH

It’s another frustrating chore in Nick’s day: getting the boiler serviced.

But when Prince walks through the door, it’s not just the heating that gets hot.

Belong

LILY VELDEN

Sent by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to curb an outbreak of influenza in an Australian outback aboriginal community, Dr. Dan is ready for anything.

Except Tommy…

A half-caste aboriginal who feels he doesn’t belong…

Anywhere.

Kiss of the South

KASSANDRA LEA

The north and south have been divided by war. But love has other plans for Joseph Calder and Ephraim Pickett.

Home

DALE CAMERON LOWRY

What if the man you thought you could never have was waiting for you all along?

Giveaway

Prize: $10 WIP Gift Card

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Release Day Link – Home by Donna McIntosh

LAPD Detective Sean Hennessey has one person he’s repeatedly tried to arrest and bring to justice: his nemesis, Mitchell Yates.

Yates has been in and out of trouble for years, always skating around the edges of LA’s underbelly; however, Sean can never pin anything on him.

But one night all of that changes.

Caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, instead of arresting Yates, Sean is rescued by him and taken to Yates’ home—a satellite high above Earth. There, Sean discovers a world he thought possible only in Science Fiction.

Everything he believed he knew about Yates is turned upside down, and Sean must make a decision: to remain with the LAPD or join Yates and work toward intergalactic peace.

Buy Links

Don’t miss the March Sale! All Wayward Ink Titles, including pre-orders, are 35% off on the WIP website and 30% off on AllRomance, and 30% off on Amazon.

On Easter Weekend, the discount goes up to 50% on the WIP website.

WIP: http://www.waywardinkpublishing.com/product/home-by-donna-mcintosh/

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

Amazon DE: http://www.amazon.de/dp/B01D2CSRN4/

ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-home-2000695-145.html

Book Trailer

Excerpt

Sean stood with a groan, confusion warring with disbelief that they could possibly be safe just because bullets had stopped flying in their direction.What the hell happened?

“Come on. Let’s get that taken care of.” Yates led him down the hall into another room, apparently a medical facility of some kind, with an examination table, and cabinets against one wall.

“What’s going on here, Yates? Where are we and how did we get here?”

A tall, slender, gray-haired man walked through the doorway. “Yana, I was told you were back and in need of Medical,” he said as he approached.

“I’m back, but it’s not me in need of care; it’s Sean Hennessey.” He nodded to Sean. “This is Noel. He’s a healer… a doctor.”

Noel looked toward Sean. “Yes, I see. Over here, please.” He motioned to the examining table and helped Hennessey remove his jacket.

Sean grimaced in pain as he undid his tie and unbuttoned his shirt, exposing the wound. The bullet had. Not a severe injury, but a bloody oneNoel took some gauze squares from a container in the cupboard and held them to the wounapplying pressure for some time. Sean felt warmth in the area, and the raw pain eased. He was filled with a feeling of peace and serenity. When Noel removed the gauze, the wound had closed and only a reddish pucker remained.

Stunned, Sean wondered aloud, “I don’t know how you did that, but thank you.” He slipped his shirt and jacket back on.

“You’re most welcome, Mr. Hennessey. The shoulder will be a little sore for a day or two, but you should be fine.” With a smile, and a brief hug for Yates, Noel left the room.

About the Author

DONNA McINTOSH was born in Elmira, New York, grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, married a Texan and has lived all over Texas for the last thirty-plus years. Donna has four children, ran a Day Care Center for many years and has written fan fiction since she was thirteen.

Donna loves long walks so her mind can ramble. She loves reading and her tastes run from Historical novels, to Sci-Fi, Westerns, Classics, all the way to WWII and biographies. In short, anything that catches her eye.

Donna loves total quiet, very little TV, occasional movies, wildlife, beaches, birds, cats, newborn babies, flowers, and great big smiles. Oh, and hugs!

She hates flying, total darkness, people who talk endlessly about themselves, intolerance, and bigotry.

Donna’s biggest asset?  Her wild and endless imagination.

Her biggest flaw? She’s a Libran and simply cannot make a decision!

DONNA McINTOSH can be found at her website: http://donnamcintosh.weebly.com/

Easter Sale @ Wayward Ink Publishing!!! #lgbtbooks #mmromance #sale

Holy Crap! 50% off on Wayward Ink Publishing website from March 25-28!

You can’t beat that.

Click here for my Wayward Ink page with all current selections

Find all of my ebooks and lots more at a fantastic bargain for a limited time!