“After everything Callum had told him, Hector needed a drink. And a good one. He got up, opened his cabinet and took out his bottle of Highland Club. He poured a generous splash into a heavy crystal tumbler. “Sorry,” he told Callum. “But you’re not allowed any.” Callum gave a genuine laugh. “Knock yourself out. After all I’ve put on you tonight, I reckon you’re welcome to drink the whole bottle.” “I won’t argue with that.” Hector took a generous sip, letting the liquor sit on the back of his tongue before it slid gently down his throat. The warm, relaxing effect was almost instant. He sighed and took another sip, savouring it further. “You know, I can’t quite believe the way tonight has turned out. From a lousy date to being on the run from gangsters.” “I’m so sorry.” “Hey, the second half of the night turned out to be more fun than the first.” He laughed. “I’m not sure if fun is the right word, but it’s certainly been something.” “Callum’s eyes glistened in the gentle light. Hector was stunned once again by how handsome he was. Too hot. Too smouldering. Too wrong. You shouldn’t fancy him. This man was in trouble. He needed Hector’s help. Not his lust. At a loss with what to say next, Hector took another drink. The whiskey had a wonderful effect, unspooling the knot of tension inside him. Callum stood. His eyes never left contact with Hector’s. “I should go home. This has been a lot. But if you’re interested, I’d really like to see you again. Without all the drama.” Hector gripped his whiskey glass as something inside him wobbled. Callum liked him too. This wasn’t a one side attraction. All in his imagination. “It…hasn’t been the best start, I suppose.” “Callum came nearer. It was extraordinary the way that his smile changed his face completely. It was as if a light turned on inside him. From sad and serious, he was joyously attractive. Hector’s eyes roamed over his body. His fitness was apparent in every inch of him. The way he filled his clothes. How the cotton of his T-shirt clung to his torso. The swell of his thighs in his jeans. Hector’s mouth was dry. The floor seemed unsteady beneath his feet. Callum stepped closer. “Am I reading this situation right?” All Hector could do was nod.” “Thank God for that. At least something in life is going my way.” So close. Hector could smell him. Could feel the heat emanating from his body. Callum reached out. He took Hector’s hand in his. His touch was dry. Strong. He lifted his hand to his mouth and brushed his lips across his knuckles. Hector couldn’t resist. He raised his other hand and ran it down the side of Callum’s head, his hair, his ear, his lean jawline. Callum leaned into his touch and gave another of those dynamite smiles. Hector’s heart fluttered. “I’m glad you made the effort to talk to me.” “I’m glad I did too.”

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