A Fix in Time

A Fix in Time A novella of erotic romance by

Jade Falconer

Published by Phaze Books Also by Jade Falconer Around the World Back to the Past Cold Hands, Warm... Once in a Lifetime I Can’t Drive 55 Wicked Game Escape Eye of the Beholder Ghost of a Chance Sex Type Thing Time Again Girls on Film Unexpected Connections Santa Please Savior Love Bites Making Magic Morning Star Murder by Death Binary Stars 7: Light My Fire Binary Stars 9: Prelude And more...

This is an explicit and erotic novel intended for the enjoyment of adult readers. Please keep out of the hands of children.

www.Phaze.com

A Fix in Time Copyright © 2011 by Jade Falconer ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Edited by Kathryn Lively Cover Art © 2011 by Niki Browning First Edition October 2011 ISBN-13: 978-1-60659-634-0

Published by: Phaze Books An imprint of Mundania Press LLC 6457 Glenway Ave., #109 Cincinnati, OH 4521 All rights reserved under the International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher, Mundania Press LLC, 6457 Glenway Ave., #109, Cincinnati, OH 4521, [email protected]. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental. The publisher does not have any control over and does not assume any responsibility for author or third-party websites or their content. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means, electronic or print, without permission from Mundania Press LLC. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/). Please purchase only authorized electronic or print editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Your support of the author’s rights and livelihood is appreciated.

Chapter One Most people dreaded the end of their vacations, but Luke Martin wasn’t like most people. He bounded into the high-ceilinged control room, grinning from ear to ear. “I’m back!” he announced. “I know you all missed me desperately.” Two or three people glanced up from their displays, but everyone else ignored Luke. They were used to his antics. “No love? I’m wounded,” Luke said, with mock sadness, and flopped down onto the lap of the nearest technician, placing himself between the readout and her face. “What did I miss, Rina?” “The world stopped without you,” Rina said, pushing Luke away. She was a short blonde woman, just on the edge of plump, but with a very pretty face. “Now get off, you’re crushing me.” Luke pretended to look affronted, but got up. He was slender and not very tall—he obviously wasn’t really crushing her. “Fine,” he sighed dramatically, and walked over to the man seated next to her. “No,” the man said, scooting his chair up so that Luke had no chance to sit in his lap. “I’m working on a calculation and you’ll mess me up.” Luke stood in the center of the office, hands on hips, and grinning. “I should have stayed away!” His multicolored hair hung in his face on one side, almost wholly obscuring it. Today it was blond in front and brown on the rest of his head. For him, it was sedate. The man who had refused to let Luke sit in his lap answered without looking up, “You’re not due back for three more days.” He had long, ink black hair tied back in a neat braid—evidence of his Native American heritage. “But I missed you so much, Carl!” Luke said. “Actually, the boss told me we might have something big coming up, that he needed my particular expertise for.” Carl rolled his eyes. “That’s what I’m trying to work on. Albert said you were to go to his office as soon as you got in.” Luke glanced around the room. “Must be serious, then.” Now that he noticed, there were more techs in the room than usual. Monitors flashed rows of numbers and colored graphs that meant little to him. He was a different kind of tech.

He made his way over to the corner of the large room, where a glass door stood open. He leaned his upper body into the doorway and looked in. “Albert, I’m here! The world is a safe place again!” Albert, a large man with close-cropped white hair, looked up from several flat panels he was studying. He looked serious, but then he always did. “Luke. I’m glad you’re here.” Luke’s eyebrows rose. “You’re never glad to see me. This really is bad.” He sat down in a chair, which immediately conformed to his body, and leaned forward. “What’s going on?” He absently-mindedly slapped away the arm of the chair—he hated the things. Albert leaned forward and rubbed his temples. “Someone’s messing with the timelines again, but this time way back. We’re not sure what they’re trying to do yet, or what to do about it. Meeting in ten.” Luke liked to think of himself as a detective. His formal title, like everyone else’s, was “Technician.” There wasn’t a lot of crime in the world these days. At least, not overtly. But, criminals would be criminals, and as technology progressed so did the intricacy of crime. As soon as time travel became a viable science, the government had tried to regulate it. At the time, they still weren’t sure about the effects time travel could have, whether paradoxes could exist, and whether someone could really do damage to the future or the past. They still didn’t have all the answers. Scientists were still working on a unified theory of time travel. But, as with all scientific discoveries, people started using it before it was completely understood. Of course, there were people who quickly figured out how to use it for personal gain. So time travel was strictly regulated, which meant the formation of a whole new branch of the government, purely for enforcing those regulations. Once in a while, someone unauthorized would go back in time. Usually it was something easily sorted out, but the ramifications were hard to predict. The Time Travel Enforcement Department—TTED for short, or just TED—was formed to stop people from changing the past, or repairing the damage that had been done. The problem, of course, was knowing what to fix and when to do it. Over the years some of the most brilliant scientific minds had written a computer program to model what would happen if an element in the past was changed. It was good, but not foolproof, and it was all they had. So far, between the program and human intuition they’d averted disaster. Luke worked for the branch of TED dedicated to stopping the past from being changed, hopefully before any damage was done. There were

only a handful of people authorized to go into the past, and Luke counted himself lucky to be one of them. Now six people sat around an oblong table in the main conference room: Luke, Albert, Carl, Rina and two other specialists. The main screen showed a number of charts and tables, and Albert was explaining their importance. Luke didn’t talk, just listened, absorbing everything. He soaked up all the information, some of it seemingly unrelated, and from there he usually came to the right conclusion. This time, however, the answer wasn’t coming to him. He’d have to go back in time—that much was clear—to 1832 England, a period about which he had absolutely no clue. He specialized in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, and felt absolutely in his element there. He’d even learned to play a musical instrument, the guitar, as part of one of his missions, and to his astonishment he’d been really good at it. He’d also picked up his hairstyle there. The nineteenth century? It was pretty much a complete mystery to him. But, he was good at what he did, and he knew he could pull off this job. Language, after all, hadn’t changed all that much. He would study all the information they had on the era, and pretend to be from another country to explain any odd behavior or accents. It had worked every time before. It would work now. The meeting wrapped up, and Albert pulled him aside. “Luke. Are you sure about this? We can get someone else to do it.” Luke flashed Albert his trademark brilliant smile. “You wanted the best and you got the best. I can do it, Al.” “Don’t call me that,” the older man said automatically, with the air of someone who’s said the same thing many times before. “I promised your parents—” “That you’d look out for me. Yeah, yeah, I know.” Luke patted Albert on the back. “But, they’re somewhere in Borneo or some damn place. Give me a shot. I can do this. I want to.” He realized he really did. He wanted to prove that he could do something outside his usual area of expertise, to extrapolate his knowledge and display how well he could bullshit, to make it simpler. Albert sighed. “Fine. Go home. Get some rest. You’re gonna need it.” **** After a long evening poring over all the documents provided for him, Luke had a headache.

He had always been impulsive, but he was also brilliant, so most times he was able to figure a way out of the fixes he tended to get himself into. If he couldn’t, he used his natural charm and dry humor to talk his way out of danger. He always had friends, and moved about in a group at school, but on the inside he was a loner. His parents were busy scientists who always brought their work home. Luke would sit and listen to them discuss their work on time travel research. By the time he was seventeen he knew more about the physics of time travel than most Ph.D.s. It was natural that he went into university to study physics, and do his graduate work in the subfield of time travel. Luke’s problem, though, was his impulsiveness and a certain lack of respect for the rules. He never got top grades because he was always a little careless with his equations. He’d take a shortcut, skip a step, and though he almost always got the answer correct, his professors noticed it. He couldn’t help it. His mind moved too fast, and he was already thinking about the next problem while he worked on the previous one. He also couldn’t sit at a desk all day. He knew his parents wanted him to follow in their footsteps, but that meant basically being at a computer all day, every day. He knew he’d go mad. He went through the motions only because his parents expected it of him, and he did enjoy the research. Time travel technology was well guarded by the government, but if the technology existed, others were going to build time machines, too. So, there had to be a team of people keeping the danger in check. Most people, if they were going to go back in time illegally, would try to profit from it: manipulate the stock market in some way, or plant some information in order to make money. Luckily, it took a great deal of money and talent to master the technology, so problems had pretty much been nipped in the bud before they could become catastrophes. TED was fairly a new organization, and as soon as Luke had heard of its existence from his parents, he’d known that this was what he wanted to do with his life. Finally, a way to combine his knowledge with a job that didn’t keep him tied to a lab! His parents warned him not to get his hopes up, but he wouldn’t even consider the possibility of not being accepted into the team. Fresh out of graduate school, he became a federal employee just like his parents. His friends thought he was crazy—they had all gone on to high-paying jobs with private agencies, but Luke had never regretted it. He was damn good at what he did, and he enjoyed putting things to rights, back how they should be. He never told anyone that, though. It sounded silly even to him.

Not that there were many people to tell. Luke had had a few boyfriends and girlfriends, mostly in college, but he never felt the instant attraction that people talked about, or was portrayed in movies. He wanted it, though, wanted to be wanted that way. Wanted the kind of relationship that made you ache if you weren’t with the other person. He wanted to be on fire for someone. Now he was thirty years old, and had been working for TED for almost five years. His work took up most of his time. It wasn’t just a nine to five job, and that suited him fine. He finally closed his laptop and got up to stretch. He wandered over to a huge window in his living room that took up an entire wall. He’d had it installed himself; it hadn’t been part of the apartment originally. Luke had a thing about having a view. He’d paid more to have an apartment with an exterior wall just so he could have this window. Most people were satisfied with a viewscreen that could show any view they wanted at any time, but Luke wanted to see what was really there. It was late now, so all he could see were sodium-yellow lights that went on until they reached the water’s edge. Off on the ocean there was the occasional bobbing light that meant there were boats out there. The water was a few miles away, so they were probably large ships holding thousands of people or tons of cargo. In the silence of his room he tried to imagine the people on those ships and the lives they led. He sighed and finally went to bed. His mind was full of the past, and tomorrow things would seem a little clearer. His subconscious had a way of sifting through information while he was asleep, getting ideas that seemed like magic to other people. It wasn’t anything special to Luke, it was just how he worked. He slid into bed, wishing briefly that there was someone here with him. Not just for sex—he could get that whenever he wanted, in whatever flavor he wanted, real or virtual. Again, Luke was an anachronism. He preferred real people and real emotions. Maybe that was why he was still alone. Or maybe he just hadn’t found the right person.

Chapter Two “Fucking barbaric,” Luke muttered to himself. He was actually in his office today, a place he usually avoided like a twentieth century plague. He scanned over more information on social behavior of the 1800s. He expected society to be strict and unforgiving, but this was ridiculous. What rankled him the most was that though the word didn’t even exist yet, homosexuality was punishable by life imprisonment and often death. Luke was more accustomed to the twentieth century, where same-sex relations hadn’t been wholly accepted. At least then it wasn’t a crime in most places. As if the authorities could regulate a person’s sexuality. Of course, people were still going to have sex. They just had to risk more for it. Luke felt a flash of sympathy for all the people over the years who had to hide who they really were just to function in society. He was truly lucky. Luke never knew, going in, whether the research team had missed something vital, some detail that meant he’d stick out like a sore thumb. There was always a risk, and several times he’d had to abort before the mission really began. That was why he had an emergency call-back button hidden in a back tooth. If he had to use it, he usually tried to get out of sight, but it was better to seemingly disappear in front of someone’s eyes than alter time unknowingly. People had a way of explaining away, in their own minds, things they couldn’t accept. **** It was time for the initial jump. Luke made his way to the control room. Most of Luke’s jobs placed him in the late twentieth century, an era about which he was especially knowledgeable. Now, he was going a hundred and fifty years earlier. He’d never gone this far into the past. Others had, but not often. This was shaping up to be much more important than anyone had guessed. Their computers forecast huge, spreading ripples in the timeline, ones that could tear holes in the fabric of their present reality. Luke didn’t work on that end of things, but apparently there hadn’t been an alert like this in, well, ever. Luke had built a reputation for being reliable and very good at insinuating himself with

people. So here he was, decked out in the most uncomfortable clothes he’d ever worn. “Why so many layers?” complained Luke to the room in general. “I’m sweating already.” He also lamented the loss of his long bangs, which he’d really liked. Now his hair was cut short and dyed a uniform brown color. He felt decidedly plain. At least it would grow back. From the research he read, it was acceptable for noblemen to have long hair, but only in back. In case somebody discovered the anachronisms, he would pretend to be from another country, France, where men kept their hair short, apparently. Luke stood on the platform, carrying nothing but a few local coins and an invitation to the party he was to attend. The invitation was printed on thick, stiff parchment and written in letters so flowery that it was nearly illegible to him. This was a sort of reconnaissance mission—a short duration to be sure they’d pinpointed the correct time, and to get a feel for things. The Duke of Wellington was having a party, where Luke could mingle and figure out a plan. He would materialize in an alley not far from the residence, but there was no way to tell if anyone might be about. One way to find out. “Ready.” Luke nodded with a deep breath, and the countdown began. He’d done this so many times that he found having his lungs full of air made the pain of transition hurt less. It did hurt, that was to be expected. Luke wasn’t sure what went on at a molecular level during time travel, for he wasn’t knowledgeable about that very specialized part of the science. It always felt, to him, like every part of his body, every cell, stretched apart just a little. He was surrounded by blackness, then with a snap there was sound and light again. He staggered a little and stood up straight. He was staring at a grimy brick wall, and a pale glow flickered from somewhere behind him. He spun around as quickly as he could. The transition usually made him a bit nauseous, and this had been a big one. He stood in an alley, as planned. Luckily, he was alone. So far, so good. He walked toward the source of the light at the end, slowly, to be sure no one would witness his exit and think he was doing something shifty. No one was about so, with a quick glance to orient himself, he recognized the street from the computer reconstruction he’d memorized before he left. The Duke’s home should be just on the left. He walked quickly toward the house. Even though he’d seen the 3D model, it seemed smaller than it should have been. Then again, this was a

palatial residence for the time and this city. He walked up to the front door, hoping he was as prepared as possible. The door opened at his knock. A tall, stern man who had butler written all over him stood there, bowing formally. Luke gave his name and presented his invitation, hoping the research team had gotten the details right. His clothing in general would likely pass muster, but fashions changed so quickly even then that he could easily have something wrong. The foyer was suitably impressive—marble flooring, plush tapestries and tasteful art screamed wealth. “Welcome,” said a voice. “I beg your forgiveness, but I don’t think we are acquainted.” Luke turned quickly from studying his surroundings to set eyes upon the most beautiful man he’d ever seen, past or future. Long, shining, gorgeous black hair hung in loose curls over his shoulders, and pale creamy skin and huge brown eyes threatened to make him forget why he was here. But, he was good at his job because he was quick on his feet, so he didn’t even miss a beat. Luke stepped closer and bowed deeply, trying to remind himself that hitting on other men wasn’t acceptable in this era. “We are not acquainted, sadly,” Luke said when he straightened up. “My name is Lucian Martin. I have just arrived from Paris for this momentous occasion.” His real name actually was Lucian, but he had gone by Luke since he was a small boy. Lucian seemed more appropriate to the time, though. He had his background memorized, of course, but he doubted such things as lineage were volunteered, until asked. “The pleasure is all mine, I can assure you. The butler will be happy to take your cloak. Oh, how rude of me. I am Edwin Wright, His Grace’s secretary. If there’s anything you require, please don’t hesitate to approach me.” “Mr. Wright,” Luke replied, smiling genuinely and hoping he was getting the mode of address right. “I shall surely do that.” What he required, or at least wanted, from this man would likely get him thrown into prison in this era. “The Duke has a lovely home. My compliments to his decorators.” He reminded himself he was not here to flirt. With a glance around he could see that, so far, he didn’t look too awfully out of place. Most minor discrepancies could be explained by his foreign nationality. Edwin blushed slightly and Luke found it incredibly appealing. “Would you care for a drink or something to eat? There’s a buffet laid out in the dining room.”

Luke knew he shouldn’t be doing this, but his job was to infiltrate the inner circle, and this man was certainly part of that. The fact that he was quite easy on the eyes didn’t enter into it, did it? Well, Mr. Wright was friendly, and he could be of use in Luke’s information gathering. “Only if you will join me,” Luke said, his gaze flicking over the man’s body in what he hoped was an unobtrusive manner. Edwin looked slender but fit under those layers of velvet. “I must confess I am somewhat out of place here,” he said in a massive understatement. “I would hope you’d be so kind as to, ah, help me fit in a little better? Point out the people to whom I must never be rude?” He smiled, making the statement lighter, more in jest. Edwin’s full lips curved into a smile and he arched one eyebrow. “It would be unforgivable to allow a guest in our fine country to stumble about without guidance,” he purred. He said a few quick words to the butler about fetching him the moment there was any word of the king’s arrival, and turned back to Luke. “Right through here, Mr. Martin,” he said smoothly, indicating the doorway to the dining room. Luke’s body reacted to that purr—it hadn’t been there before, he was sure of it. His heart pounded a bit more quickly as he considered. If he’d been in his own time, or even a time he was familiar with, he would read Edwin’s reaction as definite interest. Here, he remembered the warnings and tried to stave off his desire. But, Edwin was incredible. “You are truly a kind host, Mr. Wright,” he said, walking in the direction indicated. He moved slightly closer, as close as he dared, unable to help himself a slight flirtation. “You must call me Lucian.” Edwin bit his bottom lip. “Such informality would be inexcusable...in front of others,” he said, leaning closer and dropping his voice so only Luke could hear him. “However, should we be speaking privately, you must also call me Edwin. Lucian.” He led Luke into the dining room and poured him a glass of wine from a decanter on the sideboard, and poured one for himself. Luke accepted the glass graciously, looking around the room to keep from gazing too obviously at Edwin. He was already treading in dangerous territory. He’d been tempted before, but he never dallied with anyone from the past. Such things were forbidden, of course, for obvious reasons. The main one, however—the danger of fathering a child in the past—wouldn’t apply here, naturally. A romantic involvement could be almost as messy, but what would an innocent bit of flirtation hurt? Edwin clearly had all the information he needed to plan his mission, and seemed friendly. So, without looking directly at the other man, he sipped his wine and said, “I do hope I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity to address you as such, then.”

Edwin glanced sideways at him. “I’m almost certain you shall,” he said softly. Then he glanced around the room, nodding towards various people. “The Countess de Mountbank. She prefers to be flattered almost ceaselessly, and will quickly lose interest in those who do not indulge her.” He nodded towards another man. “Admiral Tompkins. Just back from the West Indies, and they say he stumbled upon a pirate’s treasure that he has yet to inform the Crown about. That over there, of course, is our host, the Duke of Wellington, my uncle by marriage. Of course, you must know him already...” Luke nodded, recognizing the man from reproductions of portraits he’d studied. “My Grand-mère introduced us when I was but a child,” he answered. “Of course, His Grace would not remember. My Grand-mère was always trying to get me more interested in politics, and it was her wish that brought me here today.” He hoped that would be vague enough. The other tidbits of information he stored away in his brain. Edwin was proving as useful as he was beautiful. Edwin seemed to accept the explanation and moved on, pointing out various important personages and supplying small pieces of information, more social than political in nature. After exhausting the dining room of points of interest, he said quietly, “Perhaps you’d care for some fresh air out on the terrace?” Luke’s eyes widened just a fraction, but there was no way he could refuse. A thrill ran through him, and he nodded. “It is indeed rather warm in here,” he said quietly. He doubted that being alone with Edwin would cool him off at all, but he wasn’t going to argue. “Please, lead the way.” He might hope for a few more admiring glances at the man’s body. This was what he got for being alone so long. Instant lust. Edwin led him through another door and another until they were in a quiet, unoccupied library, then finally through a glass-paned door onto a balcony. It overlooked a small, but impeccably kept garden. He walked out and turned, leaning back against a concrete railing. “Are you staying in London long, Mr. Martin?” he asked, pushing his curls back over his shoulders. Edwin looked even better in the moonlight, and Luke told himself he’d only spend a few moments out here with him. He leaned against the railing, as near as he dared, and said, “I’d not thought to stay long, actually, but I find the sights to be much more appealing than I thought they might be. I feel compelled to make my visit a longer one.” He gazed into Edwin’s eyes, mesmerized. He could still be wrong. He could still be reading the other man incorrectly, but he didn’t think so.

Edwin smirked a little. “Aren’t you the bold one,” he said, his voice taking on a breathy quality. “What are you here for, really? Surely not to placate dear old Grandmum with renewing your acquaintance with the Duke. If that were the case you’d be speaking to him, not me.” Luke smiled, noting the change in Edwin’s tone and the informality of his words. “That is partially why I’m here, actually,” he said, drawing just a bit nearer. “Mainly, it was to get away. My father is insisting I marry, settle down, carry on the family name and all that. It sounds dreadful, and I wish to postpone it as long as possible,” he confided. He didn’t know where all this was coming from—perhaps he was getting too far into his role. But, he really couldn’t help himself. Edwin’s grin turned devilish. “Perhaps you’ll prefer a good English girl to those available in France. I would be happy to point you in the right direction of the single ladies that might be appropriate.” He gazed back at Luke questioningly, as though he was reasonably sure he already knew the answer. This dance was lovely. Not that Luke condoned the primitive laws that caused men like Edwin to act in such a roundabout manner, but the result was a great deal of fun, really. Like cat and mouse. He smiled more widely, and looked straight into Edwin’s eyes after a lingering glance down his body. “Perhaps what I’m looking for is somewhat less appropriate, then.” Edwin clearly reacted to that glance and he licked his lips. He reached into the pocket of his fitted sapphire blue coat and pulled out a small card on vellum, holding it out to Luke. “Lest you be tempted to further shameful indiscretion, you’ll find my address on this card. I have a small townhouse two blocks down from here. I would be more than happy to show you around, ah, town.” He straightened up, then placed his hand lightly on Luke’s upper arm, leaning close to his ear. “I shall likely be free of this party in three hours’ time,” he whispered. Then he pulled away again. “I really must return to the entrance hall for the king’s arrival. I trust you can make your way around?” He walked towards the door and stopped for a moment, turning back to wink at Luke. “I look forward to renewing our acquaintance soon, Mr. Martin.” Then he slipped through the door and disappeared back into the party. Luke stood still for a full minute, breathing in the lingering scent of the beautiful man and getting his body under control. He clutched the small card and glanced down at it. In the moonlight he could just make out the address. He slipped it carefully into a pocket, and took another deep breath of the cool night air. He had to focus. He was here to do a job.

Nothing more. He also knew full well that he’d be visiting Edwin later. Nothing was going to stop him. After a few moments, Luke made his way out to the party again. He drank another glass of wine, ate some fruit, and spoke to a few of the guests. The Countess de Mountbank was indeed as susceptible to flattery as Edwin had indicated, and she was quite a useful source of information herself when suitably inclined. Once in a while, he’d catch a glimpse of Edwin across the room and his breath would catch. The time seemed to drag on. The king arrived, but Luke stayed on the sidelines, observing and attempting to attune himself to the atmosphere of the time. He really was good at it, and he enjoyed it. Finally, the revelers began to wind down, the king met with a few people and then departed for another engagement, and Luke was able to excuse himself. Edwin was nowhere to be seen, and he hoped the gorgeous man awaited him. He walked quickly down the dark street, glancing at the houses, searching for his goal. There it was: a small yet well-kept house, surrounded by neatly trimmed hedges. He stepped up to the door and knocked, heart pounding. He hadn’t let himself think about it too much until now. He hoped he hadn’t misread Edwin’s signals. He knew he shouldn’t be doing this, and that made it all the sweeter. He told himself he was just there to get more information, but he knew that was a lie. He wanted Edwin. Wanted to be near him, to learn more about him. To touch him. His body knew what it wanted, and he was already half-aroused. Edwin opened the door after a moment. He had obviously freshened up his appearance, removing the confining formal coat in favor of a simple white shirt and black britches. His shining hair hung in loose curls over his shoulders. He stood aside to allow Luke entrance. “Mr. Martin. What a pleasant surprise,” he purred. As soon as the door was closed, however, he leaned back against it with a sultry smile. “I hoped you’d come,” he said softly. “Tell me I’m not wrong.” Luke’s breath caught at how gorgeous he looked. “How could I stay away when such beauty awaits me?” he whispered. He glanced around him and asked, “May I assume we are alone, Edwin?” A few feet separated them, but he could feel the tension as if they were connected. “Quite alone,” he whispered. He licked his lips then held out his hand, beckoning Luke forward. “Tis been a while since anyone called me beautiful.” Luke reached out and took Edwin’s hand. “That in itself is a crime,” he murmured, bringing the man’s hand to his lips, kissing it softly. “A

creature such as yourself should be informed of his beauty daily, if not more frequently.” He couldn’t help the words that spilled from his mouth. His body was taking over from his brain, and he was intoxicated. Edwin pulled his hand free of Luke’s and slid it around the back of his neck, pulling him close and kissing him. “Tell me without words,” he whispered against Luke’s lips. Luke moaned at the quick move, and suddenly he had Edwin in his arms. He automatically put his hands on the other man’s back, and all he could do was kiss him. The world around them seemed to go away as he pressed his lips more firmly against Edwin’s. Their chests were flush together but not their hips. Luke wasn’t sure how far or how fast Edwin wanted to go. He would assume nothing. He wasn’t supposed to be doing this at all. A small voice in his head reprimanded him for ignoring the rules, but the voice that told him how wonderful, how perfect, Edwin felt in his arms was much louder. Edwin moaned into Luke’s mouth, opening for him and exploring boldly. He slid his arms around Luke’s neck and pressed his hips forward. Luke couldn’t believe how Edwin opened to him. There was no way he could stop his tongue from sparring with the other man’s, or keep his hips from grinding against his. Edwin was as aroused as he, which just heightened his desire. He’d wanted this from the first moment he saw Edwin, and now he had him just where he wanted him—as if they were meant to be, meant to connect this way. He let his hands move lower to cup Edwin’s buttocks, pulling him even closer. He’d definitely been alone too long. Edwin whimpered. “Mm, yes,” he whispered. “Let’s go to bed.” He rocked his hips back and forth seductively, kissing Luke’s neck hungrily, sucking and biting. Luke moaned loudly, trying his best to keep what was left of his wits about him. There was a reason he couldn’t do this. He couldn’t go to bed with the lovely Edwin. Shouldn’t even have come here. A glance at the clock told him what he feared; his time was running out and he had to return to his own time within a half an hour. The first excursions were always limited to a maximum of six hours. “Edwin...I can’t,” he panted, trying desperately to pull back. He’d let it go too far, but he ached for Edwin. Edwin stilled and looked at him. “Can’t? Why not?” he asked, leaning back. Luke looked down at Edwin, still breathing hard. “I...” He couldn’t think of a good reason right now, not one that he could tell him. “We’ve just met. I’m not accustomed to, well, shouldn’t we get to know each other

better?” He knew it sounded awkward, ridiculous, but it was all he could think of. He prayed he hadn’t let his desire ruin the mission already. Edwin looked at him suspiciously. “You’re not going to arrest me or anything, are you?” he asked, his voice soft. “God, no,” Luke blurted. Poor Edwin, to have to live under such conditions. “Beautiful Edwin,” he said more softly, running one hand through his long dark hair. “Fear nothing from me, but foolish desire.” Edwin frowned. “So, you honestly want to leave? You only just arrived. I’m not a tease, if that’s what concerns you. I’m inviting you to my bed.” “You misunderstand,” Luke whispered. “I do not wish to leave. I wish to stay, far too much.” The idea of Edwin’s bed made him even harder. “I should not have come, and I do not wish to place you in any danger.” “There’s no danger here. If you wish to stay, you can stay the whole night if you like. Please don’t go,” he whispered. “I won’t tell anyone, not that I know any connections of yours that would be disturbed. Why must you leave?” He looked into Luke’s eyes, his full lips parted, still breathing a little too fast. “I did not come here for this,” Luke said, eyes fixed longingly on Edwin’s pretty face. “My family would have my head if they knew,” he said almost truthfully. Edwin was almost begging, and Luke had a weakness for that. “Please believe me, Edwin. I did not intend for this to happen, but your beauty...it entranced me.” Edwin frowned. “Well, I shan’t keep you then. Good evening, Mr. Martin,” he said frostily, stepping back from the door and turning the handle. Luke sighed. Edwin was upset because he hadn’t slept with him? The man was almost as fickle as a woman! “Please, Edwin, don’t be angry with me,” he pleaded, putting his hand over Edwin’s on the door. “I just don’t want to take advantage of you.” Edwin rolled his eyes. “Oh yes. That’s perfectly understandable. I’m sure your intention in coming over here was to form a lifelong bond, perhaps planning out a lifetime of domestic bliss with someone you’ve met just a few hours ago. If you don’t want to fuck me, just say so. I’m not a whore, you know. I’m not waiting for payment. You can be on your bloody way if that’s what you like.” How had he messed up so badly? Luke stepped back, needing to stay and fix this, but knowing he had to leave. Now. “I’m so sorry, Edwin. I hope you’ll forgive me. Someday.” He looked at him once more, then he was gone.

He managed to stumble back to the alley where he’d materialized before the time travel effect seized him again, and he landed in a miserable heap back in his own time.

Chapter Three The debriefing helped Luke collect his thoughts. He was a bit shaky, but he passed it off as effects of a large time jump. No one seemed to question it much. Luke, after all, was one of the more seasoned travelers. He decontaminated, changed out of the restrictive clothes, ran through a medical check and was pronounced fit. Afterward he sat at a glass and chrome table with the rest of the staff, going over the latest computer predictions. He always found the first hour or so back in the future disconcerting. “We have a better idea of the problem now,” Albert began. “So who’s behind it? Any of the usual suspects?” Luke asked. There were a few bad guys he hadn’t caught, not for lack of trying. “We don’t know yet,” Rina replied. “In our timeline, the Duke of Wellington wasn’t successful in swaying the people against Earl Grey. The Reform Act passed, and though it was a far cry from giving the vote to everyone, it was a step in the right direction.” Carl continued the explanation. “The cause of the disturbance is clear. Someone swayed the vote so the Reform Act didn’t pass. The effects took a while to propagate through the intervening years, but we were able to pick up the ripples as they spread through time. At first we were just able to pinpoint when and where the disturbance had taken place. We were able to infer the major event that was going on at the time. While you were gone, though, we managed to tighten the prediction, and come up with more accurate models.” Rina took up the narrative again. “So The Reform Act didn’t pass, and the right to vote was kept from the citizens for at least another decade. During that time, more taxes and laws were passed that caused unrest. We don’t know any more just yet, except that the effects are big, possibly catastrophic. Carl thinks there might have been a major civil war in Britain, thus killing off many people who were meant to grow older and reproduce, giving birth to many ancestors of people in their time. The computers still aren’t sure of the magnitude, but we haven’t come across such a significant threat, ever.” “So you need to go back to the past, armed with this information, and find out who is manipulating things, and why. Even you can’t find out why, you have to stop them,” Carl said solemnly.

Albert handed Luke a pad with a list of names and descriptions of the key players. “This is serious. Possibly the largest scale threat we’ve ever faced.” Luke scanned the list, but there was no mention of an Edwin Wright. He didn’t know if that was good or bad, but he didn’t dare ask specifically about him. He’d do some research on his own. “And if I fail? Which I won’t, by the way.” “Then there may not be a future to come back to,” Albert said, and in the face of his seriousness even Luke decided not to joke further. “I won’t fail.” **** Luke walked toward the massive Parliament building. He was back now, for as long as it took to figure out his strategy, since his initial insertion had gone well. Well, from the standpoint of the mission, of course. He’d met several key players, and raised no suspicions. From a personal standpoint, of course, things hadn’t gone as well. He still thought of Edwin every few moments, and though he was ostensibly here to listen to the Duke address Parliament, his real goal was to see Edwin again. There he was. Luke knew the instant he saw the slim, black-haired form on the steps. Luke hurried forward, toward Edwin. His heart pounded. Edwin looked incredible once again. He headed straight for him, and Edwin looked up as he approached. “We meet again, Mr. Martin,” he said, voice cold as ice. “Mr. Wright,” Luke said, trying to keep the longing out of his voice. “I was hoping I would run into you.” Hoping didn’t really cover it. Dreaming, obsessing, longing, fantasizing... “You’re looking well.” There were people nearby, so he couldn’t say what he really wanted to. Not that Edwin looked like he wanted to hear it. “How kind of you to say. If you’ll excuse me, I was just on my way to Bond Street on an errand for the Duke, and I must be back here with all haste.” He pushed past him, heading for the curb. Edwin’s brusqueness hurt, but Luke knew he deserved it. He followed behind. There were still no cabs in sight. “I’ve always wanted to see Bond Street,” he said quietly. “Would you like some company?” He expected to be brushed off, but he needed to make things right with Edwin. Plus, the more he saw of the city the better. Edwin stood on the curb, glancing down the street in irritation. “Surely you’ve got somewhere more pressing you need to be. Someplace

to rush off to? Hm? I wouldn’t want to delay you. I know you must be a very busy man.” Luke looked down. “I wish I could change what happened,” he said softly. No one was around for the moment. “I’m so sorry. I was frightened. I wish you’d give me a chance to make it up to you, Edwin.” Not that he could make it up to him in the way he really wanted to. Edwin looked at Luke directly for the first time. He sighed. “A second chance is all you get,” he said evenly, just as a cab pulled up. “You may come to Bond Street with me, but I must get right back, so you won’t see very much of it.” He gave the driver the address and climbed inside. Luke couldn’t contain his happiness as he slid into the back of the cab, next to Edwin. “Thank you,” he whispered. He told himself he was only doing his job, and he wasn’t going to fuck up again. The back of the cab was small, so he had to sit quite close to the other man. Their thighs touched when they hit a bump, and Luke could smell Edwin. Edwin closed the window on his side, then reached over and closed Luke’s so the driver couldn’t hear their conversation. “What exactly is it that you want from me, Mr. Martin?” he asked, point blank. Everything, Luke wanted to reply, and his automatic response startled him. It was almost as if he was falling in love with the other man, but that wasn’t possible. Luke knew how to keep his private and professional life separate. At least, he had until now. After a glance out the window, Luke spoke. “More than I should,” he admitted, looking down at his own hands. He tried to remind himself of the mission, and the rules he was breaking already. Edwin glanced at him sharply as they rumbled along the cobblestone street. “That’s hardly an answer. I don’t know how they do things in Paris, but I’m not accustomed to being turned down so abruptly. Finding someone similarly inclined is rather rare here, at least for me. I’m rather busy, and if this is going to be some long, drawn out affair in which I have to woo you somehow, well, I haven’t got time for that.” The carriage pulled to a stop in front of a solicitor’s office. “Bond Street. Look your fill until I come back out of that building or you can find your own way back.” With that he alighted, and asked the driver to wait for him. Luke was stunned by that, and he didn’t have a chance to reply before Edwin was gone. He watched the man’s slender form disappear from view, then remembered he had a job to do. He got out of the cab and wandered around a bit, noting the people and how they were dressed, making mental notes on the era. He tried to think about what to say to Edwin but he failed. He wanted Edwin. There was no doubt. Edwin wanted him as well. It should be simple, and if Luke was who he was pretending be, it would be.

A discreet meeting to relieve their need, and they’d go on their way. Of course, it couldn’t be that way. Having relationships with people in the past was strictly against the rules. Not that they weren’t broken from time to time. Luke had never broken that particular rule, because deep down inside he was a hopeless romantic. It was one of the reasons he’d been alone so long. In Luke’s era, there were no sexually transmitted diseases, and unwanted pregnancies were a thing of the past. Sexual encounters were brief, and usually conducted without romantic entanglements. Lately, Luke had found that so empty that he’d avoided any contact at all. There was something about Edwin that just made him melt inside. He didn’t know what to say. Maybe he should just sleep with him, but he was afraid he’d get even more distracted from his mission. A few minutes later, Edwin emerged from the building. He walked briskly up to the cab. “Ready to go back?” he asked. Luke nodded, and his clear thoughts evaporated when he was face to face with Edwin again. He knew he was behaving like an idiot, but he was helpless to stop it. They climbed into the cab, and Luke knew he didn’t have a long time. “Edwin, I owe you an apology,” he began. “I behaved badly, and I let my desires get the better of me. You are a very attractive man, and I do want to be with you. But...” He took a deep breath, and tried to think of a way to put this. Edwin frowned at the but. “But...you’re not going to be?” he provided, arching an eyebrow. “I don’t suppose you have a reasonable explanation for that, hm?” Luke opened his mouth, then closed it. He had a reasonable explanation, of course, but not one he could tell Edwin. He couldn’t think of a single thing to say that would ease the situation. Even telling himself that he’d never see Edwin again after this mission was over only made him feel worse. Then something inside him shifted. He’d been lonely too long. He ached for a touch, even if it was only one night. Maybe he could get it out of his system. Maybe. He made a decision. Luke looked up at Edwin and said quietly, “If you truly mean to give me another chance, I assure you that I will not leave until morning.” He’d never wanted anyone like he wanted Edwin. Edwin’s expression softened slightly. He watched Luke for a long moment. “If you wish to pay a call on me this evening, I shall be at home. Alone,” he said carefully. “If you do not, I shall assume you found something else more to your liking.”

“I shall be there,” promised Luke, and it felt right. He smiled at Edwin almost shyly. He still didn’t like the idea of such a planned encounter, but he wanted this too much to care. Edwin was beautiful, and he wanted to touch his warmth, even if it was just once. He wanted to make Edwin happy, and this was what the man seemed to want. They pulled up to the steps of Parliament again, and Edwin paid the driver. Once on the curb again, he turned to Luke. “I must attend to His Grace. He’s giving a speech shortly in front of the Lords. Perhaps I’ll see you later, Mr. Martin.” He was obviously skeptical about whether or not Luke would actually show up. “You shall,” Luke said. “I will be watching the speech and counting the moments until tonight, Mr. Wright.” He bowed slightly, meaning every word though he knew Edwin doubted him. Luke watched Edwin go, then shook himself out of his reverie. He had a job to do. He made his way inside the Parliament building. The public was occasionally allowed to watch the speeches, and he found a balcony where he could observe. Luke listened carefully to the Duke’s speech, and observed the people’s reaction. It was clear that something had to happen soon that would result in the Duke getting more support than he should have gotten, because the people seemed mixed, with no clear consensus at the moment. Something was going to happen to change that, according to the computer models. Something was going to change history, something he had to prevent. All he could think of was Edwin, and catching a glimpse of his raven hair. If he’d been going by the book, he’d return to the future right now and have someone else assigned to the case. Someone impartial. But, he wasn’t. He was going to do his job, and he was going to see Edwin tonight. He was going to make it work somehow. Luke had found a small hotel for lodgings, and after the speech he went back there to write up a few notes and freshen up. He found it extremely hard to concentrate, though. He kept glancing at the time, counting the moments. He was too nervous to even be aroused. It wasn’t that he was breaking the rules, it was more than that. Finally, dusk began to fall and he made his way over the short distance to Edwin’s home. He’d picked up a bottle of wine and some flowers on the way, and though he felt silly carrying them, he didn’t want to arrive empty-handed. That seemed so cold, as if he had come for one thing. Which was almost certainly all Edwin wanted, but Luke would take whatever he offered.

He knocked on the door again, trying not to fidget. The door opened after a noticeable pause, and Edwin stood there, looking delicious. He dressed much as he had the other night. Tight black britches, a loose linen shirt, although not quite as open as it had been the last time. Luke’s cock rose to the occasion. Edwin’s lips twitched a little and he stood back for Luke to enter, closing the door behind him. “I see you decided to accept the invitation after all.” “I said I would,” Luke replied, and held out the flowers and wine to Edwin. He hoped he hadn’t made some sort of embarrassing social gaffe already. “You look lovely,” he breathed, awed by Edwin’s sheer male beauty. No one he’d ever met moved him this way. Just his luck that there could never be anything serious between them. He pushed that thought aside, wanting to enjoy the night. Edwin accepted the bottle and the flowers. “How charming,” he said with a soft smile. “Please, have a seat wherever you like. I shall put these in some water.” He wandered off to the back of the house and came back with a vase and arranged the bouquet in it on the dining table. He returned to the front room after a moment. “Have you eaten? I had dinner prepared for us, if you’d like.” Luke suddenly realized he’d forgotten all about dinner. He tended to do that sometimes when he was really distracted. “I haven’t eaten,” he admitted. “I sort of forgot.” He smiled self-consciously. “All I could think of was being here with you.” He had to stop talking, right now. He was going to make a bigger fool of himself. Edwin probably laughed at him inside. Edwin swallowed, and didn’t laugh. He smiled and reached out to take Luke’s hand. “Come along then. Clearly someone needs to look after you.” He tugged him towards the dining room. Luke smiled back, and let himself be led. He knew he was falling for this man, and that it wasn’t a good thing. He couldn’t stop himself. The dining room was small and intimate, clearly designed for only a few people. The table was set for two. He pulled Edwin closer, needing to feel him in his arms again. Edwin’s breath hitched when Luke embraced him. He slid his arms around Luke’s neck and looked into his eyes. His gaze flicked down to his lips for a moment, and back up. “Don’t leave me this time,” he whispered. “I won’t,” promised Luke, just drinking in the warmth of another body against his. It had been so long since he’d let himself get this close to someone, both physically and emotionally. He bent his head to kiss Edwin, undemanding. He just had to taste him. Edwin melted against him. He

parted his lips and stroked his tongue out gently, pressing closer up against Luke’s body. Luke whimpered low in his throat, opening to Edwin, lost in the kiss. To think he’d almost rejected this, almost ruined his chances to touch this beautiful creature. Something that felt so good couldn’t be wrong. He forgot to breathe and finally pulled back. “Perhaps we should eat dinner before I lose all reason,” he whispered. Edwin was panting as well, and he nodded. “Yes, probably so,” he said softly. He took his place at the head of the small table. “I hope it’s not gone cold.” He uncovered a few dishes and started to serve. “You’ll have to forgive the lack of servants. I thought it would be better this way.” “All I will see or taste is you, so fear not for my enjoyment,” Luke replied, staring at Edwin in the candlelight. The past was getting to him, making poetry flow from his mouth. He couldn’t stop it. Or maybe it was just the man he was going to be with tonight. Edwin’s eyes widened. “Good heavens, I’m sure I haven’t blushed since I was tugging on my mother’s skirts for attention,” he said, pouring the wine. “You flatter me, Lucian.” He held up his wine glass. “To a perfect night,” he said softly. Luke held up his glass, too, gratified to see the color on Edwin’s cheeks. “A perfect night,” he agreed. “You inspire me.” He sipped the wine, and tried to eat some of the admittedly delicious food, but he really only had eyes for Edwin. It was as if everything else went away, and nothing existed but the two of them. Edwin ate very little as well, and soon he sat back in his chair, just sipping his wine, gazing at Luke. “You’re not going to tell me why you left last time, are you?” Luke hadn’t expected that question, then again everything about Edwin seemed destined to unsettle him. He looked down into his wine and murmured, “I’m not really sure.” He couldn’t tell him, of course, that he was from the future; but he really didn’t know if it was that, or that he’d just been frightened by how much he ached for Edwin. “I was a fool, though.” He looked up at Edwin again, hoping there would be no more awkward questions. Edwin narrowed his eyes, running his finger along the top of his glass in a lazy circle. “So many secrets. You’re like a riddle that I’m to work out or else suffer some horrible fate. Will I ever know your secrets?” “If you knew all my secrets you’d be terribly bored,” Luke replied, licking his lips. The tension in the room seemed to have increased, and he started to get aroused again. He did want to tell Edwin his secrets, all of them. He wanted to open up to the other man and never let him go. It was

a dangerous thing, he knew. Edwin would think him mad. Best to keep it physical, which was no hardship at all. Edwin smiled slowly. He pushed his chair back and rose with cat-like grace, moving closer to Luke and lowering himself onto his lap, sliding his arms around his neck. “You’ll forgive me if I find that very hard to believe.” “Oh, God,” whispered Luke as Edwin sat on his lap. He was suddenly fully hard, and Edwin would know it, pressed as he was against his arousal. He put his trembling hands on Edwin’s hips and said, “I want you so much, Edwin. I burn for you. I’ve never felt anything like this.” “You can have me,” he said, stroking the back of Luke’s neck with delicate fingers. “I want you, too. From the moment I saw you. I could tell, from the look you gave me, that you wanted me, too. I’ve never felt that kind of instant connection.” He leaned down and kissed Luke again, deep and hungry. Luke held nothing back this time, just let the fire of need consume him. He swept his tongue into Edwin’s mouth, possessing it like he wanted to possess his body. He pulled Edwin more firmly against his arousal, and moved one hand to his thigh. He moved his hand up, slowly, wanting to touch but loving the anticipation. Edwin was his, if only for the night, and he intended to make the most of it. Edwin whimpered, wriggling against him. He covered Luke’s hand with his own and moved it the rest of the way up, pressing it against his cock. Luke’s fingers closed around the bulge in Edwin’s trousers and squeezed. Feeling Edwin’s desire for him made it more real and he pulled back, looking up at the beautiful man. “Perhaps we should go to the bedroom, or I may lose control right here and bend you over the dining table.” “I’d have quite a time explaining that mess,” Edwin said breathlessly with a grin. He stood up and held out his hand to Luke, leading him to the stairway and up to the bedroom. The room, like those in the rest of the house, was not very large, but it was impeccably decorated with the richest appointments and hangings. The bed was dark wood, and broad, and the spread was of a deep purple velvet. Edwin stepped inside, tugging Luke along. He stopped beside the bed and released his hand. Then he started to slowly undress, watching Luke’s eyes. Luke leaned against the closed door, watching intently. If Edwin wanted an attentive audience, he had it. He needed to watch every bit of pale flesh revealed to him, wanted to savor every moment. He didn’t move

except for his eyes, and those were glued to Edwin’s every move. “You’re beautiful, Edwin. Want to see all of you.” Edwin smiled wickedly. “Oh, you will, Lucian,” he purred as he slid his trousers down over his slender hips. In a moment he was standing gloriously naked. He held out his arms. “Come here,” he said softly. Luke hesitated a moment, just drinking in the sight of Edwin. His skin was pale and perfect, almost hairless, with just the right amount of lean muscle. His long hair settled in waves over his shoulders, framing his face perfectly. Luke didn’t even have words for how gorgeous Edwin was, so he hoped it showed in his eyes as he made his way closer. He reached out and slid one hand down Edwin’s chest and stomach, just needing to touch him. His other hand went to Edwin’s back, pulling him close. Edwin gasped softly. “Lucian,” he whispered. “I want to give you everything. Everything I have to give.” He leaned close and drew Luke’s bottom lip between his teeth, sucking on it. Luke moaned, his cock pulsing in his trousers. “Oh, Edwin, I want all of you, want to touch you all over, kiss you, claim you...” He moved his hand lower, and ghosted his fingers down Edwin’s cleft. He never liked to assume, but the way Edwin was acting, offering himself, he was fairly sure how he wanted it. “Want to be inside you...” Edwin whimpered, pressing his hips back and coaxing Luke’s hand farther. “Yes,” he hissed. “Want you to fuck me. Lucian, I need you.” He slid his arms around Luke’s neck again, leaning up a little to whisper in his ear. “On the table beside the bed, there’s a crystal bottle with oil...” Luke’s gaze went to the table, seeing the bottle, and his need rose even higher. Somehow the oil made it more real. He was going to fuck Edwin. Edwin was going to spread his beautiful thighs for him and let him claim his body. “Need you so much, Edwin,” he moaned. He let his fingers just brush over the man’s entrance and his breath caught. “Go get on the bed,” he whispered. Edwin smiled, a soft, sultry smile, his eyes full of lust. Then he climbed up on the bed on his hands and knees, spreading his knees far apart and arching his back, exposing everything to Luke’s view. His cock hung between his legs, stiff as Luke’s. He braced his weight on his hands, drawing a shaky breath. “I can’t wait for you to fuck me, Lucian. I can’t wait to feel the full length of you pounding into me,” he murmured. There was nothing Luke could do but whimper; the sight of Edwin displayed for him and those words brought him close to release already. He walked closer, standing next to him, and ran his hand down Edwin’s back and over his ass. “You’re going to get it, Edwin, I’m going to pound

into you as hard as you can take it.” He reluctantly removed his hand and started to undress. Edwin turned his head to watch Luke undress. “Mm, you’re as beautiful as I imagined,” he breathed as Luke shed his layers of clothes. Luke stood still for a moment, unable to believe such a beauty as Edwin could find him desirable at all. He was so aroused, and so was Edwin. He couldn’t think any more. He was about to climb onto the bed behind Edwin when he paused. Edwin was incredibly hot on his hands and knees, but he wanted something else. “Edwin,” he whispered. “I want you on your back. Want to see your face. Please.” Edwin’s eyes widened. “Like this?” he whispered hoarsely as he rearranged himself. “Yes,” breathed Luke, just drinking him in. “Perfect. Thank you.” Then he joined Edwin on the bed, lying next to him and pressing close. He gathered Edwin in his arms and pulled their bodies flush together. “God, Edwin, you’re incredible.” Edwin relaxed in Luke’s embrace. “I’m not, really,” he whispered. Luke wanted to argue, but Edwin kissed him and his naked body, drowning out all of his thoughts. He pressed forward, pinning Edwin to the bed underneath him, sliding one thigh between Edwin’s legs as he went. He buried one hand in the man’s glorious long hair as they kissed. Edwin wriggled his legs apart, pulling them up around Luke’s hips. The way Edwin responded was like nothing Luke had ever experienced. He rocked his hips forward, lining up their cocks, and let his hands caress Edwin everywhere. He could drown in Edwin, and wanted to. Edwin squeezed Luke’s shoulders and pulled his mouth away. “Please, Lucian, please take me. I need you,” he pleaded breathlessly. Luke looked down at Edwin, so needy and so beautiful. “Patience,” he whispered. “We have all night.” He didn’t know if he’d ever get another night with Edwin, and he wanted to remember it always. He wanted to take his time, but Edwin seemed to have other ideas. Edwin whimpered and rocked his hips under Luke anxiously. “That doesn’t mean the first time has to take all night,” he whispered, panting. “Please, I want you so badly. I need you inside me.” Luke had never been begged like that before, and it set him on fire. “Want you, too, Edwin,” he moaned. “You’re so...” He couldn’t stand it. Though he wanted to draw it out, Edwin was too sexy. He reached for the bottle of oil and opened it with shaking hands. Edwin pulled his knees up and as far apart as he could manage, watching Luke intently. His cock leaked against his belly, rock hard.

Luke locked eyes with Edwin, and moved his hand slowly between them. He traced his fingers down Edwin’s cleft and circled his fingers over his entrance. “Can’t wait to be in you,” he breathed. “It’s been a long time.” Edwin drew a sharp breath. “For me, as well,” he whispered. “I don’t, I’m not...” When he felt the first finger slide inside him, he moaned, eyes drifting closed for a moment. “Feels so good...” Luke moved his finger in and out gently. “Tell me if I’m hurting you,” he said softly. He ached, but he wouldn’t hurt Edwin. But, that interrupted sentence bothered Luke. “You’re not what?” he asked. Edwin swallowed hard and bit his bottom lip. “I’m not as promiscuous as I might appear. You’re not hurting me, though,” he whispered. Luke added another finger, his hands on automatic as he looked into Edwin’s huge brown eyes. “I never said you were,” he said, hoping he hadn’t offended the pretty man in some way. All he wanted was to make him moan. And Edwin did moan. He arched up, trying to drive him deeper. “Oh, God.” He gasped. “Please, Lucian. You won’t hurt me. Please...” Luke took a shuddering breath, trying to keep control. No one had ever made him feel this way before, so desperate. He added a third finger, twisting them to seek out Edwin’s prostate. He wanted Edwin to burn for him, too. Edwin choked back a cry when Luke stroked against that spot. “Please f-fuck me, please, oh God please...” Luke knew he could never get enough of Edwin’s sweet voice begging him, and he deliberately brushed his prostate again before withdrawing his fingers. “Just a moment longer,” he promised, slicking his cock with more of the oil and positioning it. Edwin whimpered again. “I want you to fuck me. Please, Lucian. Please...” He reached up and clamped one hand on the back of Luke’s neck, pulling him down. Luke whimpered and kissed Edwin hard, just as he started to enter him. He went as slowly as he could, but he thought he was going to lose his mind from the tight heat of Edwin’s body. It was better than he could have even imagined. Edwin moaned brokenly into Luke’s mouth. His legs wrapped around Luke’s body again, and he held onto him tightly. Luke broke the kiss because he absolutely could not keep from gasping loudly at the exquisite feel of Edwin’s body. “You feel so good,

Edwin...” he panted, as he slid into Edwin and claimed his body with his cock. “Lucian...More. I’m n-not going to break,” he panted. “So good.” Luke liked it rough, too, but for some reason he wanted to be careful. There was much more emotion in the air than Luke was used to. He thrust deeper, harder, but he made sure he didn’t use his full strength. This was going to be over far too quickly, anyway. He could already feel his climax approaching, and he held fast to what control he had. Edwin whimpered and gripped Luke’s shoulders tightly. “Ohh, I’m, oh God...” Then he came hard. Edwin’s release took Luke by surprise, and as Edwin tightened even more around him he shuddered and lost control. He thrust hard, twice more, deep into Edwin and climaxed as well. He heard himself cry out Edwin’s name, as his world dissolved into excruciating pleasure. He thought he might die from it. Edwin stared up at Luke, panting hard for long minutes afterwards. “That was incredible,” he said breathlessly. Luke slipped out of Edwin reluctantly, and collapsed next to him. He wanted to gather Edwin in his arms, but he wasn’t sure how that would be received. “It was...” he searched for a word, fruitlessly. “You’re amazing, Edwin.” He moved just a bit closer, wanting to stave off the emptiness he knew would hit him soon. Edwin moved closer, turning on his side to face Luke, and slid his arm around him, resting his head on Luke’s shoulder. “All I did was lie there,” he said, chuckling breathlessly. Luke sighed happily as Edwin moved closer. He pulled the other man against him and smiled, “I think you did a bit more than that,” he whispered. “You drove me absolutely crazy with that sweet body of yours, and that face.” He felt more content than he had a right to. This was still a one-night stand. He was breaking the rules, but it just felt so right. “That was the most amazing...I’ve never felt anything like that,” he whispered, nuzzling into Luke’s neck. Luke sighed happily. He wanted to believe it. He really did. Edwin felt perfect in his arms and he could almost believe nothing else mattered outside this room. “I hope I can see you again,” he ventured, hoping he wouldn’t get kicked out now. Edwin felt relaxed and languid in Luke’s arms. “Mmm, how long are you in England?” he asked in a husky purr. “Another week or so,” Luke said, snuggling closer yet. He really wasn’t sure how long he’d be here. He needed to find out how things

changed before he could stop it. He wasn’t due to report in for three days. He never wanted to move. “Where are you staying?” He pressed his lips against Luke’s neck. “Have you relations in town?” “Above the Lion’s Head pub,” Luke answered. “It’s small but quite clean. I’m not there much.” He wondered what Edwin was getting at. Those lips on his neck were not helping him think properly. “Perhaps you could stay here. I’ve got an extra room, and I doubt anyone would think anything of it for such a short time.” Luke’s eyes widened. Stay here with Edwin? His heart wanted to say yes immediately, but he wanted to be sure. “Would I have to sleep in the other room?” he whispered, Edwin’s proximity threatening to arouse him again. His hands wandered down Edwin’s back as if of their own accord. Edwin grinned up at him. “As far as the housekeeper is concerned, that’s where you’d be sleeping. In reality, highly doubtful.” He wriggled closer, shifting so he was partially on top of Luke, nuzzling under his jaw. “I think it’s more than just doubtful,” moaned Luke, sliding his hands lower. “Unless, of course, I’ve displeased you. In that case, I demand the opportunity to convince you otherwise.” He arched up—he couldn’t remember ever getting aroused so quickly after having sex, but he was half hard and rising fast. “Oh, yes. Bitterly disappointed. It might take you an entire week to sway my opinion.” Luke felt Edwin harden against him, and that made him fully aroused. Edwin apparently made him insatiable, and he wasn’t a bit sorry. “I shall do my very best to,” and he squeezed Edwin’s buttocks, “Prove to you that my intentions are only the best.” Edwin smiled and kissed Luke’s chin, rocking back and forth against his hip. “My mystery man. What is it about you that makes me crave your secrets?” he whispered. He gazed into Luke’s eyes and kissed him lightly on the lips. Luke kissed back, parting his lips slightly, hoping Edwin didn’t push for more secrets. He buried one hand in the man’s long hair, moaning as the need built up again. He was getting attached already; this wasn’t a good thing at all. But, he didn’t want to stop. Edwin invaded his mouth sweetly, lapping at his tongue, stroking his hands over Luke’s skin everywhere he could reach. Luke was attracted to visual beauty in his lovers, but his preferences ran more to males. Edwin was perfect, and he’d never met anyone like him. He was sure he could never get enough of Edwin, but he knew he had

a very limited time. He shouldn’t even be here. Which made it even sweeter, more forbidden. Edwin pulled back. “What’s wrong?” Luke asked, concerned. “Nothing. Just wait a moment,” Edwin said, putting his fingers over Luke’s lips before he stood. He disappeared for a moment then came back with a damp cloth. Edwin cleaned him off, then tended to himself. He set the cloth aside and straddled Luke again. Edwin kissed over Luke’s chin and down his throat, wriggling down his body slowly. He took his time, tasting every inch of skin with open-mouthed kisses. Luke lay back, enjoying Edwin’s talented mouth on him, already burning for him again. The ache was less desperate, however, because he knew it would be satisfied tonight. He suddenly realized what Edwin was doing, where he was heading, and why he’d cleaned him up. He looked down, watching the progress of that sensuous mouth down his body. Edwin smiled up at him as he swirled his tongue around one nipple. He continued down, sucking his way down Luke’s chest and belly. He maneuvered himself between his knees and hovered for a moment over Luke’s cock, gazing up at his face. Then he leaned in and pressed his lips against the slick head. Luke moaned deeply, trying his best to hold still. That gorgeous mouth, on his cock. Edwin’s hair hung around his face and brushed Luke’s thighs and Luke thought he was going to die right then. “Oh, God. Yes, please, Edwin. Do it,” he begged hoarsely. The way Edwin was looking up at him was one of the best things. Edwin made a soft humming sound of assent and slowly sucked Luke’s cock into his mouth. His hands slid up Luke’s thighs and his thumbs gently caressed his balls in lazy circles as he started to bob his head up and down, drawing pressure, gradually increasing the pull and speed. Luke was lost, completely submerged in the pleasure Edwin gave him. He clutched handfuls of the bed sheets in an effort not to buck up into that hot mouth. He moaned Edwin’s name constantly, eyes fixed on the beautiful man. He’d had this done to him before, but never with such skill or from someone so absolutely desirable. Edwin stroked with fingers and tongue, letting him slide partway down his throat and moaning against the stiff flesh. Luke never had an encounter like this, so full of desperation and passion that the rest of the world didn’t matter. He knew it was only their first night together, but Luke was falling fast. “Oh, Edwin.” He gasped,

barely able to form words. “I’m going to...” He wanted to warn the pretty man, but it was all he could do to breathe. Edwin didn’t let up for a moment. He continued to suck and lick until Luke began his climax. He slowed his movements, but didn’t stop, swallowing him down and helping him ride through it, finally licking him clean and letting him slip from his mouth. He stretched his body up alongside Luke’s again, giving him a cat-like smile. Luke could only lie there and pant, trying to gather his wits enough to speak. “Edwin,” he whispered, pulling him close. There were no other words, though, as his body trembled with the aftereffects of his release. He vowed that just as soon as he could move, he would make Edwin feel just as good. Edwin cuddled against Luke’s body. Slowly, Luke came back to his senses, and Edwin in his arms felt so good he thought sure it must be a dream. But, the beautiful man must be frustrated, and Luke meant to do something about that. “Edwin,” he whispered, tilting his chin up for a kiss. As he explored Edwin’s mouth lazily, he let his hand trail all over his sleek body. Edwin relaxed even more, opening to the kiss, coaxing Luke’s tongue inside. He moaned quietly, running his hand up Luke’s arm to his shoulder. He arched his body a little closer to Luke’s, pressing up against his side. Edwin’s body felt incredible under his hand, and Luke wanted to touch more, to map every part of Edwin’s body with his hands and his mouth. Gently, he pushed Edwin back onto his back, moving to kiss his neck. Edwin’s long hair spread out around him on the pillow, and he tipped his chin up, giving Luke better access to his neck. He panted and his eyes drifted closed as he moaned. Luke kissed and bit gently at Edwin’s neck, worshipping his warm skin. Then he moved lower, teasing Edwin’s nipples and kissing his flat belly. He could feel Edwin hard underneath him and he made sure to brush against his cock as much as possible. Edwin gasped. “W-what are you doing?” he whispered. “Oh, ohhh...” Luke lifted his head and grinned up at Edwin. “What does it look like I’m doing?” He moved a little lower, and now he faced Edwin’s very hard cock. “I want to make you feel good, Edwin.” He whimpered and gripped the bed sheets. “Lucian...” he moaned. “No one has ever...” “Never?” Luke was shocked. No one had worshipped this gorgeous creature in this way? There was something about giving someone that

much pleasure that he really liked. “You’re going to love this, then,” he assured Edwin, and licked a long slow line up the length of him. Edwin whimpered again, panting hard. “Yes, I can s-see that. Although, I don’t think it’s going to take very long.” His voice trailed off in a shuddering moan. Luke smiled evilly, and licked once more. Then he purred, “Lie back and enjoy, Edwin. This is all for you.” Then he wrapped his hand around Edwin’s cock, bringing it to his mouth, and slid the whole thing into his mouth. If Edwin wasn’t going to last long, Luke wanted to be sure that he enjoyed every second to the fullest. He took Edwin as deep into his mouth as he could, then pulled back to the tip, swirling his tongue around it. Then he moved in a rapid rhythm, bobbing his head up and down. Edwin cried out, his hips bucking up before he could stop himself. “Oh, fuck,” he hissed. “Lucian...” Luke couldn’t answer as his mouth was full, but he kept up his motions. He loved the sounds that Edwin made, and was inspired to make him moan more. He hummed softly as he slid Edwin’s cock in and out of his mouth. Edwin was already on the brink, and tumbling over fast. He shivered and gasped. “Oh, God, Lucian, I’m, ohhhuuuhhhnnnnnn...” He pulsed into Luke’s mouth. Luke was ready for it, and swallowed happily. He’d given Edwin something no one else ever had. He wanted Edwin to remember him always. He saddened for a moment when he thought that soon he’d have to go back to his own time. He licked Edwin clean, then crawled back up the bed to hold him. He craved Edwin’s warmth. Edwin cuddled up against him. “Thank you,” he whispered, looking into Luke’s eyes. “That was beautiful.” Luke smiled and kissed Edwin’s temple. “You’re beautiful,” he responded. “It was an honor to do that.” He sighed. It just figured that when he finally found someone he connected with immediately, he couldn’t have him. Edwin reached up and touched his face lightly. “Is something wrong?” he asked softly, looking into his eyes. Luke looked down at Edwin and had the wild urge to tell him everything. The whole truth. Who he was and why he was here. But, he couldn’t. Edwin would never believe him, and if he did, he’d do an unforeseen amount of damage to the timeline. So he just smiled and said, “How could anything be wrong when I’m holding the most beautiful man in the world, naked in my arms?”

Edwin chuckled. “You don’t have to flatter me anymore, you know. You’ve got me in bed. In fact, I nearly had to drag you into it.” He kissed Luke’s cheek. “You deserve to be told every day how beautiful you are,” replied Luke. “It’s not flattery. It’s the truth.” Luke always tended to get overemotional after sex, and the effect was even more pronounced now. Edwin swallowed hard. “I’ve never met anyone like you, Lucian.” That made Luke laugh. Truer words had never been spoken. “Well, I’ve never met anyone like you, either, Edwin, but I’m incredibly grateful I did.” He closed his eyes, trying to keep his mouth from letting out all the foolish romantic thoughts he was having. If he told Edwin he was falling in love with him after just one night, the man would throw him out. Edwin settled in, resting his cheek against Luke’s shoulder. His own eyes drifted closed, and as he started to drift off to sleep he whispered, “I’m grateful I found you, too.” Luke couldn’t believe that Edwin trusted him so much as to fall asleep on him like this. He was overwhelmed by the urge to protect Edwin and watch over him. No one had ever made him feel this way before. Eventually, he drifted off to sleep, basking in Edwin’s warmth.

Chapter Four When morning came Edwin stretched languidly, Luke’s arms still wrapped around him. “Good morning,” he purred, a slight rasp in his voice. Luke opened his eyes quickly, trying to sort out where he was. “Morning,” he whispered, as last night’s events came back to him. He’d never felt quite this relaxed. He looked down to see Edwin’s face, surrounded by sleep-mussed hair, and he smiled. He was breaking so many rules right now, but he didn’t care. “I’m afraid I must kick you out of my bed in about half an hour. My housekeeper shall be along to make breakfast.” He nuzzled under Luke’s chin, breathing in his scent. “And you need to collect your belongings from wherever it is you were staying.” He pressed his lips against Luke’s neck, fingers gently exploring his chest and shoulder. Luke moaned softly, unable to stop his body from reacting to Edwin’s touches. “Pity we only have half an hour,” he said, hands drifting over Edwin’s body. He loved sex in the morning, and Edwin was incredibly enticing. “Mmm, not enough time?” he asked drowsily. Edwin was already half-hard. He slid his knee up over Luke’s thigh, nudging a little against his cock. That small touch was enough to bring Luke to full arousal, and he moaned softly. “I’m certain that we could be quick,” he replied, arching up just a little. He stroked Edwin’s hair and let his hand move lower under the covers to his ass. “You feel so good...” “I want you,” he whispered against Luke’s neck. He nuzzled up higher, behind Luke’s ear. “Take me.” His own erection pressed against Luke’s hip and he ground it against him with a breathy moan. “Oh, Edwin,” moaned Luke, suddenly desperate for him, as if they’d never touched. He didn’t hesitate, just reached for the bottle of oil as he pushed Edwin onto his back. He slicked his cock, then slid two fingers inside Edwin. He didn’t want to wait, but he also didn’t want to hurt Edwin. Edwin pulled his knees up high and wide and looked up at Luke’s face. His expression was intent. He was already gasping with need. “I’m

ready. Please, Lucian.” He reached up and curled his fingers around the back of Luke’s neck, staring into his eyes. Luke could only nod and he removed his fingers, replacing them with his cock. He trembled slightly as he pushed inside Edwin. The hot tightness enveloped him and he moaned, eyes fixed on Edwin’s. He couldn’t help but think there was more here than lust. Some deeper connection. Edwin slid his legs around Luke’s body, arching up to him, moaning his name in an endless litany. Edwin’s fingers tightened in Luke’s hair and he held on tightly. Luke stopped thinking as he drove into Edwin. He forgot that he didn’t belong in this time, in this bed, that he was breaking the rules by being here. He only felt pleasure, and need, and the overwhelming urge to make Edwin scream for him. It seemed to go on forever, but only a few moments passed before he was close to climax. He moved his hand between them, seeking out Edwin’s arousal, and stroked it as evenly as possible. When Luke began to touch him it was only a minute before it was all over and Edwin cried out his name, arching up beneath him as he came over Luke’s fingers. His body trembled violently with the force of the orgasm and every muscle tensed as he rode through it. Luke’s breath hitched as he watched Edwin find his release, and he held off his own just so he could watch the pretty face twist with pleasure he’d given him. Then he let himself go, pulsing over and over as he emptied his passion inside Edwin. As his breathing slowed, Edwin’s lips curved up into a brilliant smile. “Mmmm, see? I knew we could do it,” he whispered. Luke blushed. “I hope some time I’ll get to prove to you that I can last more than a few moments,” he said softly. He pulled out and kissed Edwin gently, knowing he had to go very soon. “You’re just so amazing.” “Perhaps tonight,” Edwin purred. “I shall be out all day. However, I’ll tell Mrs. Fitzhugh that you’ll be staying here and she’ll let you in whenever you return with your belongings. Have you any social engagements this evening?” he asked. Luke had to think about that. He had a job to do, and he needed to focus on it, but he knew no one to have a social engagement with, other than Edwin. “Only with you,” he smiled, getting up reluctantly. “If you’re free of course.” He had to do a bit more research, talking to people, but that was best done during the day at Parliament. Edwin sat up slowly. “I can be. Unless you’d like to accompany me to a soiree this evening. Or I can be afflicted very suddenly with a minor

illness.” He wriggled out of bed and went to the wash basin, cleaning himself up. Luke gathered his clothes and started to put them on. “I would, of course, desire your undivided attention if possible,” he said, fastening his trousers. “But, I wouldn’t want to keep you from your obligations.” Well, yes, he would, but as long as he knew he’d have Edwin all to himself afterward he could manage it. Plus, perhaps he could gather more information. “I would accompany you if you wished it.” Edwin ran a brush through his hair as he opened his wardrobe to choose something to wear. He seemed completely content to stand around without clothing on, and took his time. “It will, no doubt, be a somewhat tedious affair. However, His Grace will be there if you should wish to renew your acquaintance.” “Perhaps I can make it less tedious for you,” Luke said, gazing at Edwin’s body. He came up behind Edwin, fully clothed, and ran his hands over the other man. “I fear I will never be able to get my fill of you, Edwin...” Despite their multiple encounters, he knew within a few moments he’d be ready for more. Edwin tossed his hair back and looked at Luke over his shoulder, laughing a little. “Now, now, it wouldn’t do to be discovered.” Despite his words, he turned around and gave Luke a sweet, lingering kiss. He pulled away and said softly, “If you let me dress I shall put the kettle on before she arrives.” “I think you should go about like that, actually,” laughed Luke, but he stepped back and released Edwin. He had a moment of sorrow that this beautiful man had to hide his true nature, for fear of imprisonment. He had had no idea that the Dark Ages had lasted this long, at least with respect to homosexuality. If Edwin lived in Luke’s time, they could kiss on the street and there would be no issues whatsoever. It wasn’t fair. Edwin chose a pair of dark blue trousers and a matching short coat, and dressed himself. He pulled on a pair of hose and boots, and pulled his hair back, tying it in a thin piece of black satin ribbon. He turned to Luke with a soft smile. “Tea?” With that, he headed downstairs to the kitchen. Luke followed him, and reminded himself that from then until this evening when they were alone, he must act as if he had no feelings toward Edwin other than friendship. It wasn’t going to be easy. He’d never fallen for anyone like this, even when he was a teenager. Never just had the urge to gaze at someone just because they were making tea. Putting some distance between them helped Luke to focus on what he was really there for.

“The Duke is certainly dead set against the Reform Act,” he ventured, as if ignorant. “I don’t understand the fuss about it.” Edwin arched an eyebrow and turned to the table with the two cups and saucers. “It’s not the Reform Act itself, you know. I don’t think he’s as passionately opposed to it as some think. For it to pass the Lords as Earl Grey would want, the king would have to raise more Whigs to the peerage. That’s really the crux of the problem. He’s doing it for the king, I mean reforming the Tory parliament.” He poured out two cups of tea and took a seat at the kitchen table. “A defeat of the Reform Act would be seen as a defeat of the Whigs, and then there could be some sort of mandate for the Duke in Parliament, and things could go back to normal.” Luke nodded, sipping the tea. “But, to the people, who are not so well-informed as you, it must seem as if the Tories are trying to keep the vote from them.” That was what it had seemed to him at first. It wasn’t until later he realized that even though the act had passed, still only a very small, moneyed percentage of men were able to vote. Edwin shrugged and sipped his tea. “To the common man it will always seem as though those in power are keeping them down. The actual impact of the Reform Act would be relatively small, but I suppose it might be the nose of the camel. The fact remains that we serve the monarch as we’ve always done. To change the minds of the Tories currently in Parliament, at least in the House of Lords, is a losing battle. They’re scared to death of the common man. Therefore, the only path remaining is to defeat the act soundly and restore some stability.” Luke felt as if he was getting a better handle on the facts in this mission. Which, after all, was why he was here. “What do you think will happen if the act does pass?” He wanted to see what a person might see as an advantage in influencing the vote. The computer models still weren’t sure just what the defeat of the act had caused to happen. Edwin thought about that for a moment. “I suspect the King will feel pressured to cater more to the Whigs. They were where his initial loyalties lay until they wanted titles, despite the fact that His Grace managed to prevent us all from having to learn French. Oh...no offense intended, of course.” “None taken,” Luke replied, “though my Grand-mere might say differently.” He thought a moment. “How confident are you of victory? Are there many on the Duke’s side, other than his party?” The Tories, of course, would back the Duke, but he was looking for anyone else who might be trying to interfere. Edwin sighed. “Honestly, I’m not even sure of all of the Tories. I don’t know what they think will happen, but if they don’t support His

Grace they’ll get the Earl and the Reform Act shoved down their throats. One of the important ones that we’re attempting to seduce, so to speak, will be at this soiree this evening. Hopefully we can keep Count Warren from undoing whatever progress we may make.” “Count Warren?” Luke asked. He didn’t know the names of the minor players yet, and he made a note of that name. “Why do you think he’ll be a problem?” They still didn’t know who was trying to change history, so at this point, anyone could be a suspect. Faking a past wasn’t difficult. “Count Warren is a Tory down to the bone, and he goes far beyond the call of duty to make sure everyone knows it. He rather makes us look bad, to tell the truth. Which is horrid to say, but it’s true. What he lacks in subtlety he makes up for in rudeness.” Edwin wrinkled his nose. “We just have to steer him away from anyone whose opinion we actually want to change.” Luke nodded. “I know the sort.” Well, this Count Warren seemed to be very much in favor of the Reform Act not passing, so he bore further scrutiny. When he checked back in next, he’d be sure to pass along that information. “So, tell me about the person you’re trying to seduce tonight. I do hope you don’t mean that literally...” He smiled at Edwin across the small table. Edwin smirked. “That’s a risky business, but I can’t say I haven’t been tempted before when a politically advantageous gentleman has been so inclined. But, no, I don’t believe Sir Robert Peel shares our sensibilities.” Just then the kitchen door rattled and a flustered, middle-aged woman rushed in. “Oh, dear, I’m sorry I’m late, Mr. Wright,” she stuttered when she saw the second man sitting at the table. “Oh, and look, ye’ve ’ad teh make your own tea as well. Oh, I’m so sorry.” Edwin smiled at her. “It’s quite all right, Mrs. Fitzhugh. This is Mr. Martin. He’s a friend who’s just come in from out of town. He’ll be staying in the second bedroom for the week. He’s just got to collect his things from the inn where he’s been staying.” With that he gulped down the rest of his tea. “I’m afraid I must be off. I trust you can find your way around, Lucian?” he asked with a coy little smile. “I can indeed, Edwin,” Luke said, smiling back at the other man. “Thank you again for your kind hospitality.” He was amazed he was able to get that out without smirking. Then he stood, bowing slightly at the housekeeper, and said, “It’s lovely to make your acquaintance, Mrs. Fitzhugh. I shall be back later this afternoon with my things.” “Come along then, Martin, we can share a cab,” Edwin said briskly, nodding a farewell to his housekeeper. He walked back through the house

to the front door, and held it open for Luke. When they were on the other side of it, he snickered. Luke laughed. “Why do I feel like a teenager again, sneaking around?” he asked, looking over at Edwin. The illicitness of what they were doing certainly added to its appeal, though. Not to mention that Edwin was still the sexiest man he’d ever seen. “You mean to tell me she doesn’t suspect a thing?” Edwin shrugged as he started off towards the corner. “She’s only been working for me for two years. It’s not as though I’ve had a lot of ‘visitors’ in that time. I don’t think I’ve had any, actually.” The next street over was a more crowded thoroughfare, and a better spot to engage a cab. Luke followed along, digesting that information. He could tell that Edwin had had experience. But, he’d also said that it had been a long while since he’d been taken. He hoped that Edwin wouldn’t be “entertaining” anyone else while he was around. He didn’t think he’d like to see that. He was feeling rather possessive of the other man. Edwin found a cab that would drop him at Parliament and return Luke to his rented room. They climbed in, and he immediately closed the shutters on both sides. As they started rumbling down the street, he leaned close and kissed Luke full on the mouth, pressing between his lips insistently. Luke gasped at the sudden move, allowing Edwin’s tongue access, and he kissed back instinctively. His body responded, and he moved closer to Edwin, putting a hand behind the other man’s head to fit them closer together. The idea of what they were doing, practically out in public in an era that was not accepting at all, was exciting. After an all too brief moment, Edwin pulled back. “I didn’t get to tell you what a wonderful time I had last night, and this morning,” he murmured, “and I wanted you to be thinking about me all day.” Luke whimpered. “There’s little chance of me thinking of anything else,” he whispered. He was aroused once again, with no relief in sight until late this evening. “I had a wonderful time, too, Edwin. I hope we will get to do it again. Very soon.” He put his hand on Edwin’s thigh. Edwin gave him a sultry smile. “Mmm. Be around Parliament about lunchtime,” he purred as the carriage slowed. “Meet me at the front steps.” He leaned close and gave Luke a quick kiss before pulling away again and pushing the shade up. They were pulling up to the curb. He gave Luke a quick wink. “See you later.” Then he opened the door and got out. “Until then,” Luke nodded, taking a deep breath before leaning out to tell the driver where his room was. He watched Edwin go up the stairs as

the cab pulled away. He knew full well he’d be there waiting for Edwin at noon. He couldn’t stay away.

Chapter Five Luke spent the remainder of the morning settling his account at the inn, then moving his things to Edwin’s house. All around him, he heard talk of politics and the Reform Act—clearly this was a big issue. He listened as intently as possible, but gleaned no new information. He made his way back to Parliament at noon, looking about as people drifted out onto the steps. Edwin was a few minutes late. He started down the steps when he caught sight of Luke. “Mr. Martin. So glad you could make it. If you’ll be good enough to follow me,” he said, his voice clear and formal, betraying nothing of his intentions. “Of course,” Luke replied, falling into step beside Edwin, resisting the urge to gaze at him. Surely Edwin couldn’t be planning a romantic moment right here at Parliament? His body nevertheless anticipated it, and his heart beat faster. Edwin went back up the stairs and into the building, leading Luke through the labyrinthine corridors. He went through a door to another corridor leading deeper into the building, then another door and another, until they were inside what looked like a small study. It had a desk with two chairs before it, a small fireplace, and two tall, shuttered windows overlooking a courtyard. Edwin locked the door and walked across to close the shutters, then leaned back against the desk. “Hello there...” Luke’s body went from on guard to instantly aroused. Edwin was really serious. Luke knew they wouldn’t have much time, so he didn’t waste any of it. He stepped closer, taking Edwin into his arms and pressing him back against the solid bulk of the desk, before kissing him hard and insistently. Edwin whimpered into Luke’s mouth, his palms flattening to his chest then sliding down. “I think you know what I want,” he whispered when they parted briefly to take a gulp of air. Apparently, Luke’s lust for Edwin had only increased by their night together. He burned for Edwin as he ground against him, making sure the other man knew just how much he wanted him. “Tell me, Edwin, I want to hear the words,” he said, voice low and rough with desire. Edwin’s hands slid slowly around Luke’s hips and he pulled him even more tightly to him. “I want you to fuck me,” he purred. “Hard and fast

and wickedly improper, over this desk behind me, so that every time I sit down for the rest of the day I’ll be thinking about you.” Luke gasped. Edwin asking for it that way was unbearably hot. He’d never been this aroused, this fast. “Turn around and drop your pants, then, Edwin, because I’m going to give you everything you want. Hard and fast. I will make you feel it for days.” He stepped back, unfastening his pants. “Spread those legs for me.” He hoped Edwin had brought some oil. Edwin whimpered and wriggled around, facing the desk. He unbuckled his belt and let his trousers fall. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a small vial of oil and handed it to Luke over his shoulder, then he bent over the desk and spread his legs. “Oh, God, Edwin,” moaned Luke, and he took the oil and spread some on his rock hard cock. He didn’t want to wait, so he pressed into Edwin as slowly as he could. It hadn’t been all that long since he’d taken Edwin that morning, but he didn’t want to hurt him. “You’re perfect...” He gripped Edwin’s slim hips as he slid into him. Edwin gasped quietly, then moaned and strained back towards him. “So good, like you were made to fit inside me...” Luke moaned more loudly, Edwin’s words as well as his body urging him on. “And you were made for my cock, Edwin...” He pushed deep inside before pulling out again. He sped up just a bit, knowing they couldn’t take very long. Edwin bit his and gripped the desk, holding on. “Yess, oh yes, Lucian. Harder,” he hissed softly. “Don’t h-hold back.” Groaning, Luke gave Edwin what he wanted, building up speed and force. Soon he was pounding into Edwin, the desk rocking from the strength of his thrusts. He panted now, and he reached forward and grabbed Edwin’s long ponytail, pulling on it as he fucked the beautiful man. Edwin whimpered loudly, his head jerking back a little. “Oh, I’m going to...” His body tightened around Luke and he gasped again as he came, trembling almost violently. Luke couldn’t get over how Edwin threw himself into everything, including passion. He felt everything to the fullest, and he made Luke feel everything, too. Edwin tightened around him and Luke thrust once more into him before he went over the edge as well. Exquisite pleasure washed over him as he pulsed inside Edwin. Edwin rested against the desk, panting. Slowly he raised his head a little and rested on his elbows. “I can’t think of a lovelier lunch date,” he said groggily.

Luke whimpered as he pulled out of Edwin. “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered, pulling Edwin into his arms. He was quickly becoming addicted to this man. Edwin leaned back against him for a moment, tipping his head back against Luke’s shoulder. “Mmm, I liked it when you pulled my hair. We’ll have to do more of that this evening,” he said softly. He reached down and pulled his trousers half-way up and pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket, wiping himself and the desk off before adjusting his clothing again. Then he turned to face Luke and slid his arms around his neck. “Time to go, I’m afraid,” he whispered. Luke pulled Edwin close and kissed him deeply, then released him reluctantly. “Thank you,” he whispered, fixing his clothing. “It will seem like an eternity until I get to touch you again.” He couldn’t seem to stop smiling. “Just half a day and one long, boring party to get through,” he said, smiling softly. He patted Luke’s ass affectionately. “Now, run along and get all settled in, and I’ll be home to change in four hours or so.” “Yes, Mother,” joked Luke. He had a few things he wanted to look into anyway, in the interim. They parted, making their way separately back upstairs. **** For the rest of the day Luke talked to people, gathering as much information as he could. He was still no closer to determining who was behind the tampering. As far as he could tell, there were no other foreigners evident who were in a position to have any influence on the outcome of the vote. He began to worry that he wasn’t going to solve this mystery until it was too late. He arrived back at Edwin’s house before his host, and was warmly welcomed by the housekeeper. She insisted upon supplying him with cup after cup of tea and plates of biscuits, and asking him endless questions about Paris. By six o’clock, Edwin returned home. Edwin made his way to the kitchen and leaned in the doorway, folding his arms over his chest. “Having a pleasant visit?” he asked with a smirk. Luke looked up from his tea and smiled widely at Edwin. “Yes, we were, as a matter of fact. How was your day?” he asked, trying not to smirk too much. Edwin took a seat at the table and rubbed his forehead. “Tedious. Aggravating. Tea, please, Mrs. Fitzhugh?”

The housekeeper quickly fetched a cup and saucer and poured him out some tea. Edwin thanked her and looked at Luke. “Would you care to discuss the engagement this evening while I go over my correspondence in my room?” he asked pointedly. “Certainly,” Luke replied, trying not to look too eager. He bowed at the housekeeper, and said, “I greatly enjoyed our chat, Mrs. Fitzhugh. If you’re ever in Paris, you must look me up.” The housekeeper beamed at him. “Thank you, Mr. Martin. If I’m ever there, I certainly will!” And then she shuffled off to get the table set for dinner. Edwin carried his tea up the stairs, and Luke had a lovely view of his ass. When they reached his room, he opened the door and waited for Luke to enter before closing it firmly. “It seems you’ve made a new friend,” he said with a soft chuckle. “Yes, she seems quite enamored of Paris in general,” Luke agreed. He looked at Edwin across the room. “I missed you,” he said softly, not approaching just yet. The tension was delicious. Edwin took another sip of his tea and put the cup down on the desk. Then he walked slowly towards Luke. “Did you?” he asked. “Did you think about me coming to visit you in Paris as you regaled poor Mrs. Fitzhugh with tales of your homeland?” Luke nodded, though that made him feel a pang of guilt for deceiving Edwin. He pushed that out of his mind for the moment. “There is nothing I’d like more,” he responded, “though it would be no easier for us than here.” If only Edwin lived in his time. They could be together openly, wherever they wanted. Edwin was almost close enough to touch now, and he held his breath. His body already reacted to the sexy man. Edwin stopped just short of touching Luke. “’Tis not that difficult to go undetected, is it?” he breathed. He gazed into Luke’s eyes and started unbuttoning his own jacket. Luke watched avidly as Edwin started to undress. “Not if one is discreet,” he whispered, pulse racing, “and if one wants it enough. I definitely want you, Edwin. More than anyone I’ve ever met.” “I feel the same,” he whispered. “I’ve never been so attracted to someone before, and I’ve never had so skilled and considerate a lover.” He raised his hand and let it rest on Luke’s cheek. Then he leaned in and kissed him, his lips soft and warm against Luke’s. Luke parted his lips, eager to taste Edwin again. He couldn’t seem to get enough of the other man. The fact that Edwin thought he was such a good lover made it even better. He wanted to please Edwin more than

anything. It almost scared him how much he craved this. He wrapped his arms around Edwin and brought their bodies flush against each other. Edwin slid his arms around Luke’s neck, leaning against him, then pulled back. “Mm, you’ll have to wait a short while longer,” he whispered. He stepped back and pulled his jacket off, draping it on the back of a chair. Luke whimpered, almost panting as he looked at Edwin. “I thought you said you weren’t a tease, Mr. Wright,” he growled, mostly joking. “You make me ache for you.” He knew why, of course. He just didn’t have to like it. Edwin arched an eyebrow. “Have you any doubt I’ll relieve your ache at my first opportunity?” he asked, sitting on the edge of the bed and pulling off his boots. “We must eat. You’re as thin as a rail, and you’ll need your strength later this evening.” He stood up again and stepped close to Luke. “Just until Mrs. Fitzhugh leaves,” he whispered. Luke pulled Edwin hard against himself so the other man could feel just how affected he was. “I’ll try to hold myself back,” he whispered in Edwin’s ear. Then he released him and stepped back. “Dinner, Mr. Martin?” he said, holding the door open for Luke. It was going to be a very long night. They ate dinner, though Luke was more preoccupied with watching Edwin. It was hell to keep his hands off the other man, but with Mrs. Fitzhugh hovering, there was little he could do but gaze at the other man. The food was delicious, though, and Luke knew he was going to be spoiled. Food in the past always did taste better for some reason. Finally, they had cake and coffee, and the housekeeper prepared to take her leave. She shuffled into the dining room. “The washing up is all done, Mr. Wright, and the kettle is full. If you happen tae be up and about before I get here in the morning again, you’ve only to put it on the fire. Now, you two young gentlemen don’t break all the young ladies’ hearts tonight.” She smiled and bustled off to the back of the house. When Edwin heard the back door shut he started to chuckle. “Yes, we’ll have to take care not to leave a string of feminine lament in our wake, to be sure.” He winked at Luke. “We don’t have to make an appearance until eleven or so.” Luke calculated. Two hours with getting ready and traveling time. Edwin smiled and raised his eyebrows questioningly. “Whatever shall we do to fill the time?” answered Luke, meeting Edwin’s eyes. He licked his lips. He still burned for Edwin, and couldn’t wait to feel his body under him once again. There was no way he was going to stop now, though he was breaking so many rules.

Edwin examined his fingernails incuriously for a moment, feigning indifference. “Oh, I don’t know. I suppose we could speak of the differences in our two nations’ political structures, or perhaps we could examine the library shelves for something edifying to read...” His eyes met Luke’s and a wicked smile curved his lips. “Or we could return to my room and fuck.” Luke moaned softly, eyes on those lips. “Such a crude word, but so very descriptive,” he murmured as he rose and slowly made his way around the table toward Edwin. “I should like nothing more than to fuck you into the mattress right now, Mr. Wright.” He stopped in front of him, his crotch at Edwin’s eye level, his arousal obvious. Edwin pushed his chair back and reached out, holding onto Luke’s hips to pull himself up to stand in front of him. When he faced him, he pressed his body up against Luke’s, making his own interest just as obvious. “What a coincidence,” he whispered. “I should very much like to feel your cock pounding into my ass right now, as well.” Luke groaned and wrapped his arms around Edwin, pulling him close. “How fortuitous it is that our interests are so well-aligned,” he whispered, before crushing his mouth to Edwin’s. He invaded the man’s mouth with his tongue, allowing himself to be even more forceful than before. Edwin brought it out in him. Edwin held onto Luke, their bodies pressed to each other as tightly as possible. After being thoroughly kissed for several minutes, Edwin shoved back against Luke, staring into his eyes. “Bed,” he whispered. “Now.” He took Luke’s hand and pulled him along to the narrow stairs, climbing them quickly with his lover in tow. Luke let himself be pulled, but as soon as the door shut behind them he took charge again, pressing Edwin back against the wall. He rocked his hips against Edwin’s, rubbing their aching arousals together, and stared into Edwin’s eyes. “Take your hair loose,” he commanded. Edwin reached up and pulled free the ribbon holding his hair back in a tidy bundle, and it tumbled around his shoulders. He smiled and pressed his hips forward. “Do you enjoy ordering me around?” “Very much,” agreed Luke, taking a handful of Edwin’s hair and tugging on it. He loved to pull hair. “Do you like following orders?” It had always been a kink of his. Dominance. He didn’t need it, but he liked it. Edwin’s eyes were heavy-lidded and he moaned again when Luke tugged on his hair. “Mm, oh yes. Very much. Tell me what else you want, Lucian,” he breathed. “I’ll do whatever you ask,” he whispered hoarsely. Edwin was perfect, Luke knew that now, and he fell even more for him. But, he couldn’t think of that now. There was only need. He pulled

harder on Edwin’s hair, forcing his head back, and bit lightly at his neck. “Want to be rough with you, Edwin. Want to tell you what to do, want to fuck you so hard you scream...” Edwin gasped. “Use me. However you want,” he whispered. “I’ll scream for you, Lucian.” Luke bit down harder on Edwin’s neck, trembling from sheer arousal. He’d never needed anything, or wanted anyone as badly as he craved Edwin. He wanted to do everything to him, with him, and he wanted to never leave Edwin. He stepped back and sat on the bed. “Strip for me, Edwin, make it good...” Edwin stood before Luke, looking meek and submissive as he tugged his loose white shirt free of his trousers and over his head. His hair settled around his shoulders, and he took half a step closer. He unfastened his pants and slid them down his hips to his knees until the dropped to the floor, and he stepped out of them. Luke took his time and let his gaze roam all over Edwin. He’d seen him naked before, but they both knew the dynamic was different now. Every look, every touch would feel different. Edwin was giving control over to Luke, and though it was a big responsibility, Luke had never wanted anything more. “No undergarments?” he said softly, smirking. Edwin smirked, too. “I find them constricting,” he said softly. Edwin was gorgeous, every lithe inch of him. “Put your hands on top of your head and turn around,” Luke breathed. “Want to see all of you.” He hadn’t even touched Edwin yet, and he was desperate for him. He’d never felt this level of need for anyone. Now he knew what had been missing in his life. Edwin trembled, put his hands on top of his head and slowly turned around. He was rock hard. He made his way back around, keeping his hands on his head, watching Luke watching him. Luke had thought he’d been aroused before, but that was nothing compared to how he felt now. He’d dabbled in these games before, and knew he had a few kinks, but Edwin submitting to him like this was beyond sexy. “So beautiful,” he breathed, looking at every inch of the other man. Edwin was giving himself over to him, and Luke knew he could never be satisfied with anyone else, ever again. He got up finally and walked closer to Edwin, circling him, still not touching. Edwin straightened just a little, stretching his spine, keeping his shoulders squared. Luke walked around Edwin and stopped behind him so Edwin couldn’t see him. He leaned forward and breathed in his ear, “How does it

feel? To be so exposed to my eyes? To be naked and defenseless and know I can do anything to you?” He still didn’t touch him. A shiver ran down Edwin’s spine. “It feels odd. I’ve never felt so much at the mercy of another man, and by my own will,” he whispered. The air in the room was cool, but Edwin’s skin radiated heat. “And it makes me want to beg you to touch me...” “I’d like it if you begged,” Luke whispered in Edwin’s ear, just letting him feel the heat of his body. He knew that Edwin would let him do anything to him right now. “Soon you’ll be begging me to fuck you. You want it so badly, don’t you?” Edwin’s head tipped back just a little and his eyes drifted closed on a moan. “Yes,” he hissed. “More than I ever have. Please. I ache for you.” Luke stepped closer, pressing against Edwin from behind, still fully clothed. He needed Edwin to want him more than any other. He craved it. “I’ve never wanted anyone like I want you,” he whispered finally, sliding his hands down his lover’s chest. Edwin leaned back against him, panting. “I’m yours to do with as you please,” he whispered. “I’ll do whatever you want.” He rocked his ass back and forth against Luke’s erection. Edwin’s words enflamed him once again, and Luke wrapped one hand around his cock as he stood behind him. He stroked slowly and bit at Edwin’s neck. “Want to fuck you hard, Edwin. Want to take you like this, bent over the bed.” He wanted so much more, but he didn’t think he could hold back. He wanted to dominate Edwin, to tie him down, to make him do all sorts of things... “Yes,” Edwin murmured. “Fuck me, please. Lucian. Hurt me. Use my body. I want it as badly as you do.” Luke groaned and pushed Edwin toward the bed. “Get the oil, then bend over and get ready,” he growled. He wanted Edwin to feel every thrust, so he wasn’t going to prep him. Just take him hard and fast. Edwin stumbled a little and caught himself. He found the bottle of oil by the bedside and put it on the bed, then leaned over next to it, bracing himself on his elbows on the high mattress. He spread his legs apart wide, arching his back to stick his ass in the air, completely open for Luke. Luke groaned, just looking at Edwin for a moment, all ready for him. Then he unfastened his trousers just enough to pull out his aching cock, covered it with oil, then stepped behind Edwin. On impulse he slapped him hard across the ass, just because he felt like it. Edwin gasped. He tipped his head forward and his hair cascaded down to the bed, hiding his face. “Lucian...” he murmured. “Feels nice.”

“You like that?” whispered Luke, and spanked him again. He loved the way it felt, the slight sting, the way Edwin’s smooth skin felt as it warmed to his touch. “Yes, oh yes,” he whimpered. “It makes me feel like you own me.” His voice was raspy and he rocked his hips back, seeking more contact. Luke wanted to own Edwin, body and soul and heart. He spanked once again, then spread Edwin open with both hands and plunged his cock deep into him in one stroke. He just couldn’t wait. He gasped as the heat gripped him. Edwin cried out and threw his head back as Luke impaled him, his hair spilling back over his back. “Fuck,” he hissed. Luke almost wept from the beauty of it, of Edwin and of what they were doing. He could never get enough, never be satisfied with less than an eternity with this beautiful man. Somehow. He drove in and out of Edwin, gripping his hips roughly, giving Edwin everything. It seemed to go on forever, but Luke knew it had to end too soon. He chanted Edwin’s name as he tried to hold back just a moment longer. He reached around to Edwin’s front and stroked him quickly. Edwin choked back a groan, and his fingers grasped the bed. “Ohhh...Lucian...” His body took over, clamping down hard around Luke’s cock as he pulsed over his fist without warning. “Fuck,” gasped Luke, and there was no way he could keep from following Edwin. He plunged once more into him and stilled, pumping him full of his seed. He had to keep his mouth closed or words he couldn’t say might spill from them. Edwin rested his forehead against the mattress, panting hard. He still trembled slightly, gripped in the afterglow. “Are you all right?” Luke whispered, pulling out gently and putting his hand on Edwin’s back. His leg muscles trembled, and he breathed hard. Edwin was just incredible. Edwin gasped and nodded his head. He straightened a little and climbed up onto the bed, falling forward and rolling onto his back. “Come here,” he rasped, holding out his hand. Luke complied, following Edwin onto the bed and pulling him into his arms. Edwin felt perfect there, and Luke never wanted to let him go. Edwin curled around him. “Every time is better than the last,” he whispered. “How shall I ever give you up?” he murmured, nuzzling into Luke’s neck. Luke sighed softly. “Maybe I won’t be able to give you up,” he whispered, unable to help himself.

Edwin looked up at Luke’s face. “We’ve got ourselves into quite a little spot, haven’t we?” he asked softly. “We have,” Luke agreed, wishing he could tell Edwin just what a spot they were in. “I did not mean to do this,” he said softly, “but I, oh, Edwin...” He bent to kiss him again, knowing he’d already said too much. Edwin wrapped his arms around Luke and relaxed into the kiss. All too soon they had to get cleaned up to go out for the evening. Luke didn’t want to leave Edwin’s embrace. Not now and not ever. He just hoped he could solve the problem he was here to solve before he was hopelessly in love. Then again, he suspected it was already too late. Edwin changed into one of his more impressive costumes, a dark blue coat and pure white trousers. He brushed out his hair until it shone, and pulled on his shiny black boots. “Do I look all right?” he asked. Luke had been ready for a while, and he was just watching Edwin because he was so beautiful. “You look far too good,” he said, sauntering closer. “I shall be burning for you all night.” Edwin smirked. “Good. After a few hours of recovering I should like very much to see what else you’d like to do to me when we return.” He stepped close to Luke and leaned up to kiss him on the lips. “Come along. The sooner we arrive, the sooner we can leave.” Luke sighed but followed Edwin. He reminded himself that he had a job to do and he could very well get some new information tonight. All he could think of was being alone with Edwin once again. Edwin summoned the carriage and they made their way to the evening’s engagement in good time. The duke was in attendance and was pleased to see Edwin arrive. Edwin presented Luke to the duke again, then they parted to mingle in the crowd for a while. Luke thought he’d made a fairly good account of himself, and he’d listened closely as Edwin talked about the various characters that surrounded them. Still, no one was standing out in his mind as someone who was actively trying to influence the vote. The duke came over to Edwin, and said, “Excuse me, my boy, could I have a private word?” Edwin glanced at Luke. “I have no secrets from Lucian, Your Grace.” The duke sighed and gave Luke a jaundiced look. “Very well. Edwin, you know I don’t usually pry into your private affairs,” he began. Edwin’s eyes widened and Luke wondered where the conversation was going. “I’d like very much if you would pay particular attention to Miss Georgiana Barnes. Her mother is the Countess of Ross, and a good friend

to the duchess. I think she would be an exemplary match for a young man such as yourself.” Edwin frowned. “I should be delighted to meet anyone you think I should, of course, Your Grace.” It was a less than enthusiastic response, and though Luke approved the sentiment, the duke was sure to notice. “I don’t want you to take this request lightly, Edwin. I’ve been thinking it’s high time you thought about getting a wife.” His expression was stern. Edwin lowered his voice. “You speak as if I take any request of yours lightly, Your Grace.” Luke watched Edwin out of the corner of his eye as he talked to the duke. He felt uncomfortable being a part of the conversation, but Edwin had included him. He certainly couldn’t add his opinion that he wanted Edwin all to himself. He was on the fringe of a group of people who were discussing the upcoming vote and he surreptitiously tried to listen to both conversations. As this was the duke’s engagement, the people were firmly of the Tory persuasion. Still, one of them could be involved, and he studied each person carefully for any hunches. Luke watched as Edwin was escorted over to the countess, where introductions were made. He smiled charmingly at the young lady in question, and bowed. To appease the duke, he requested a dance, and was immediately accepted. She was certainly pretty, and no doubt pristine in reputation and breeding if the duke recommended her. Pity Edwin prefers the company of men, Luke thought with a smirk. Luke couldn’t help but watch as Edwin danced with her. She was a lovely young woman, and though he knew full well that Edwin had no interest in her he felt a stab of jealousy anyway. He forced his attention back to the conversation at hand, but he couldn’t help glance toward the dance floor occasionally. Edwin was graceful and prettier than any of the women there, and Luke wished he could be the one dancing with him. In his time it would have been no scandal whatsoever, but here it would be enough to get them thrown in prison, if not worse. When the dance ended, Edwin returned the young lady to her mother’s side, thanking her politely. He made his way back across the crowd, stopping to speak to various acquaintances along the way. It was as if Luke could sense where Edwin was across the room, and he could feel him getting closer. He only chanced a glance once in a while, though, and as he felt Edwin approach he excused himself and wandered toward the food area. By the time Edwin managed to rejoin his companion he’d spoken to just about everyone he’d been required to speak to, and was more than

ready to make excuses to leave. He accepted a small crystal glass of sherry from one of the footmen stationed at the buffet. “Mr. Martin, would you be horribly disappointed if we vacated the premises?” he asked in a voice pitched for only Luke’s ears. Luke sipped at his own wine, and tried not to sound too eager as he said, “I was hoping you’d say that.” He wanted to grin and take Edwin in his arms, but he held himself back. There would be time for that later. “I think we can safely depart without causing offense,” he said primly, putting his empty glass down. He betrayed nothing in public. When they’d said their farewells and thanked the hostess and collected their coats, Edwin led Luke down the front steps. He started to walk up the block, scanning the rows of coaches clogging the street. “We shall have to walk to the high street to hire a cab,” he explained, “or we could walk back.” Luke looked around and shrugged. “It’s not far, is it? The night is rather mild, I don’t mind walking.” He thought perhaps he could pull Edwin into a dark alley for a quick, illicit kiss. He had a thing about outdoor sex. Any kind of sex, really, with Edwin. Edwin laughed. “Farther than most gentlemen are accustomed to walking, but no, not far. A mile, perhaps.” “As you may have surmised, I’m not really a gentleman,” Luke teased, wishing he could just pin Edwin against the wall. He was glad to be alone with him again. Soon they’d be back at Edwin’s house. He couldn’t stop smiling. Edwin laughed lightly. “On the contrary. You’re barely one step above a rake, Mr. Martin. The damage you’ve done to my pristine reputation cannot be reckoned.” He pushed an errant lock of hair that had escaped from its ribbon behind his ear. They were away from the busy street now, where it was darker and quieter. As they walked, they didn’t have to stay along the road. Luke moved a bit closer. They were still in public, though, and he was aware of that. “You object to the way I’ve sullied your reputation?” he grinned. “I recall no complaints at the time.” Out of the corner of his eye, he thought he saw movement in the bushes. A glance showed nothing. “Perhaps object is too harsh a term—” Whatever else Edwin was about to say, Luke never knew. Two men jumped from a break in the hedge and loomed before them. Luke gaped, immediately dropping into a defensive pose he’d learned from martial arts training, and interposed himself between Edwin and the men. It was an instinctual move.

The men froze momentarily, as if they hadn’t expected the move, or maybe it was Luke’s stance, which might have looked odd to them. Edwin spoke out behind him. “What is the meaning of this?” “Give us your valuables,” the taller of the two men rasped. His voice sounded like the croak of a frog, and what little light there was gleamed off a half-bald head. Luke couldn’t make out his features, but he could certainly smell him. The second man moved to the right and Luke shifted to track him. “Stay behind me,” he ordered Edwin, hoping the smaller man would comply. To the men he snapped, “Fuck off. You’ve picked the wrong targets.” Luke wasn’t heavily muscled, but to compensate he’d studied unarmed combat diligently. Of course, he couldn’t carry a weapon. “Piss off, little boy,” the second man scoffed. He ran too fat around the middle but he looked to be mostly solid muscle. “’and it over.” “Do you know who I am?” demanded Edwin, who at least had the sense to stay behind Luke. “A rich little pouf,” snickered the second man, “who’s not gonna be as rich soon.” He reached into his vest and pulled out a knife. “Shit,” Luke muttered, watching the knife while simultaneously trying to watch the other man. Adrenaline pumped through his veins and everything slowed down just a bit. He eyed the two men, wondering what his next move should be, when the choice was taken from him. The taller man moved as if to shove Luke out of the way while the other man moved closer to Edwin. The taller man still hadn’t shown a weapon, so Luke decided the knife was the primary threat. He sidestepped, ducking under the man’s big arm, and while he was crouched he shot out one leg, catching the knife wielder’s knee with a solid kick. He heard the sickening crunch of the cartilage just before the man started screaming. He didn’t drop the knife but he was definitely out of the fight, bent over and hopping on one leg as he howled in pain. Luke spared a glance at Edwin, who stared at the injured man wideeyed. “Get back,” he hissed, as the taller man came at him with a bellow. “Bastard! Both of ye are dead now!” Luke had just enough time to turn to face the man, and he reached out to grab the front of his coat. Then he dropped, bringing his leg up as he hit the ground, using the man’s momentum to propel him up and over Luke, and onto the pavement behind him. Luke turned and scrambled to his feet, not knowing if the throw had been enough to finish the man or not. It all depended on how the man had landed.

He needn’t have worried, though. There was a crunch, then all was quiet. Edwin stood over the man, a large brick in his hand which he’d just applied to the man’s head, knocking him out cold. The howling man ran away lopsidedly after seeing his comrade fall, and they were alone again. “He was about to get up again,” Edwin said by way of explanation, looking a bit shaken. “Nice work,” Luke said, brushing off his trousers as he approached the man on the ground. He peered down at him. “He’ll live. He’ll have a nasty headache, though.” Edwin looked at him, then at the bloodied brick in his hand. “I think they meant to do more than rob,” he whispered. He dropped the brick and stepped closer to Luke. “If you hadn’t been with me...” Luke frowned. Would the men have killed Edwin? Was he the crux of the time shift? That couldn’t be—Edwin’s name hadn’t even come up in the research. It seemed an odd coincidence, though. “But I was here, and all is well,” he assured him, wishing he could pull him into his arms. “We must alert the duke, and the authorities,” Edwin said decisively, brushing off his hands. He sounded more like himself by the moment. “I can’t believe the lawlessness, so close to the duke’s residence! The police should be ashamed.” In due course the police arrived, explanations were given, and the injured man was hauled off in a police carriage. Luke and Edwin were not detained—Edwin’s connection to the duke was enough to raise them above any suspicion. The interviews were conducted in the duke’s residences, and he kindly invited them to stay for the night, but Edwin demurred. “I’d rather be in my own bed, my Lord, if it’s all the same to you. Lucian here will make sure I get there safely.” A small smile played around Edwin’s lips and Luke knew that Edwin wanted more than a good night’s sleep. He himself couldn’t wait until they were alone again. In the end, the duke insisted that they take his own private carriage back, and Edwin agreed to that. The trip was brief, and soon they closed the door and firmly locked it behind them.

Chapter Six The next day, Edwin had more business to attend to, and Luke was on his own for the better part of the day. He had a feeling things were coming to a head, so he took the opportunity to return to his own time to check in. He needed to know if the team had any new information, and he might not get another chance. He made sure Mrs. Fitzhugh knew he was not to be disturbed in his room, and he activated the recall switch. The transition once again made him nauseous. This was nearly the longest time he’d spent in the past without returning, so maybe that was the reason it was affecting him so much. He sagged against the wall for a long moment before gathering his strength to go through the required medical scan. After he was cleared of all possible infectious or otherwise nasty bacteria or other objects, Luke went to see Albert. His normal clothes felt oddly loose and light to him. Albert welcomed him into his office after glancing at him curiously. “You look well,” he said noncommittally. Luke slumped into a chair. “What does that mean?” he asked warily. God, he missed Edwin already, even though he knew he’d be back. “Just that. Well. You look better than you usually do when you return.” Luke looked up at Albert, who sat ramrod-straight in his chair. But then, he always did. “Well, it’s not a bad time period. The food tastes like real food. I think I gained weight.” He patted his nonexistent belly. He sat up straighter, trying to push away thoughts of Edwin and why he was enjoying this assignment so much. “Unfortunately, I’ve got nothing yet but questions. Anything new for me?” Albert pulled a flat screen toward him and peered at it. “Actually, we thought we had something yesterday. A glitch in the timeline. It seemed like the disturbance we’d detected disappeared for a couple of minutes, and we thought you’d solved it. Then it came back, but slightly different, as if it took place slightly further along the timeline.” He slid the screen toward Luke for him to study. Luke picked it up and looked at the chart. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said, thinking hard.

“Did you do anything? Affect anything that might have caused this kind of reaction?” Luke paled slightly as he thought of just what he’d been doing. Surely he wasn’t affecting history by having sex. Then he thought about the attempted mugging. He’d quite possibly saved Edwin’s life just by being there. If Edwin had been walking home alone, the two assailants could easily have overpowered the smaller man. If Edwin had resisted... The two men hadn’t seemed averse to violence. Luke had bruises that he’d been able to explain away to the medtechs as the result of a fall from a horse. Of course, he hadn’t thought twice about protecting Edwin. It was automatic. But, what if? His brain wasn’t working fast enough. He’d have to think of this later. “No,” he finally answered. “I’ve just been observing.” He was doing more than observing. Interacting with people in the past wasn’t forbidden. Obviously in a case like this he had to insinuate himself. Albert shook his head, taking the screen back. “You’d better get back there and work on this,” he said. “We still don’t know what’s going to happen. I want you to check back in no more than forty-eight hours.” Luke nodded, getting up and turning to leave. He stopped when he heard Albert’s voice. “Be careful, Luke. This is a big one.” He grinned at the older man. “I’m on it, Al!” He turned to go, and as the door closed he heard: “Don’t call me Al.” Luke went out to talk to Rina. He’d given her a list of additional names that he thought might be important, and asked her to look into them. That had been the last time he’d checked in. He wanted to ask her if she’d come up with anything. Also, he’d slipped Edwin’s name onto the list. He wasn’t sure why. Just one of his hunches. “Luke,” Rina said, greeting him with a smile. “You only come talk to me when you want something.” Her tone was light. “That’s because you know more than anyone in the place,” Luke shot back easily. He’d known Rina for years. She was like a big sister to him. “You get anything on those names?” He didn’t want to rush her, but he really missed Edwin. It had only been a few hours, but he thought it was probably a bad sign that he couldn’t stop thinking of the other man. “I got jack and shit,” she said, shaking her head. “Nothing significant. Most of them, I can’t even find mention of. Which isn’t unusual, of course. Unless you were a big shot back then, you didn’t exist. Even then, you had to be someone who did something important, or got killed to warrant a mention.”

Luke sighed. “Okay. Thanks, babe. I owe you one.” “You always do,” Rina nodded solemnly before laughing. “Hey, you wanna grab some dinner before you head back?” “Nah, I wanna get going,” he said, thoughts going to Edwin. “Besides, you know what happened last time I jumped on a full stomach.” Her nose wrinkled. “Yeah, Tom goes on about it every time he has to work with you.” “It wasn’t my fault he doesn’t understand the meaning of ‘fire in the hole!’” Luke smirked. “I bought him a new pair of shoes.” “Get out of here,” laughed Rina, “and don’t barf on the Duke of Wellington.” “Yeah, yeah...” Luke didn’t bother to go home—he wanted to get back to the past. To Edwin, if he was being honest with himself. He went back into the travel ready room and donned the constricting clothes again, then went through the pre-travel checklist. When he was finished, he stepped into the travel room and checked the controls. There were two chronographs: one that showed the present time, and one that showed the time in the past. Approximately four hours had passed, both here and in Edwin’s time. Whenever possible, the TED team would sync the timelines, that is, time would pass at the same rate in both places. It simplified the equations. It was possible, of course, to jump back to the moment after he’d left, but that carried risks that they avoided as much as possible. Meeting your former self apparently had severe psychological effects that could be unpredictable. Luke waited for the okay, then pushed the button that would transport him back to Edwin. To the past. He couldn’t wait. He materialized just where he’d left, on the bed in Edwin’s guest room. The bed he’d never actually slept in. He glanced at the clock and saw he had just enough time to walk to Parliament to meet Edwin as he finished his errands. He freshened up quickly, and walked eagerly. He shouldn’t feel this happy—he was forming a dangerous attachment that he was going to soon regret. But, he couldn’t think of that now. He needed to see his lover. Edwin met him on the steps of the Parliament building. “The duke is quite incensed about the attack last night,” he said as they strolled along to a pub for an early dinner. Mrs. Fitzhugh had the night off. “He reckons the country’s going to hell. The common people can’t be trusted to vote if they can behave no better than animals.”

Edwin went on to explain that the duke planned to use the violent act as an example of why the Reform Act shouldn’t be passed. The already skittish Lords would be able to seize on it as a legitimate reason to reject it, and put pressure on the king not to increase their number. Luke wondered if the attack had happened in the original timeline, or if the criminals had already begun to change history. Perhaps he could get Rina to check on police records, if they went that far back. Edwin was busy most of the next day, making it easy for Luke to check in before his allotted time. He went directly to Albert’s office. “The time ripples are spreading,” was the older man’s greeting. “Centered on your location. Something definitely happened to change history. Right about at your past position. You’d better not stay here long.” The duke was set to give his speech to the House of Lords the next day—the speech which failed to rally the House of Lords into rejecting the act. “You can’t give me anything else to go on?” he asked desperately. Albert shook his head. “The timelines are too muddy. The simulations keep changing, and won’t resolve into a stable model. You’ve got to figure it out. Do whatever you have to. You’re the best we’ve got, Luke. We’re counting on you.” “No pressure or anything,” Luke replied dryly. Do whatever you have to. He was sure he’d never heard his boss say such a thing. Albert was a by-the-book kind of guy. Now he was giving him free rein. It was unprecedented. He stopped by Rina’s desk. He wanted to get back as quickly as possible but he needed to know if she’d found anything to help. “Hey, I was just looking for you,” she said as he approached. “I got something.” “Yeah?” Luke said eagerly, and perched on the edge of her desk. “Give it to me.” She rolled her eyes, but with a few keystrokes she brought up a document. “Got something on your Mr. Wright.” “Really?” Luke’s eyes widened. This could help. She nodded. “Well, it’s not much. But, you asked about him specifically. He dies. In fact...” She checked her display. “He should already be dead, in the correct history. Carriage accident.” “What?” Luke gasped. He stared at the display. “Yeah. Two days earlier than your present location. Did you know him?” Luke didn’t answer. He was already out the door on his way to the travel room.

“Fuck,” he muttered to himself. He’d changed history. He’d fucked up. Albert was gonna kill him. He changed quickly as his mind raced. Wait, an accident? The mugging had been no accident, and there was no way to make it look like one. Plus, the attack had happened three days ago. History had already been changed. There were theories that the timelines were self-correcting. If something was supposed to happen and it was prevented, events would unfold in such a way that they still happened, albeit in a different manner, but the end result was the same. Luke didn’t buy it, though. This was far too specific a change. Just in case there was some force that wanted Edwin dead, natural or human, Luke needed to get back there. Because the thought of Edwin dead chilled him so much that Luke knew it was far too late. He was in love. Edwin was too minor a player to affect a change in history. Rina had had a hard time finding anything about him. Accident or not, he’d been destined to die and Luke had saved him. He might have fucked things up even worse, but at the moment he didn’t care.

Chapter Seven Luke jumped back to the past, barely noticing the nausea in his rush to find his lover. He was rushing out the door when he nearly bowled him over. “There you are!” Edwin smiled, taking off his coat as Luke gaped at him, his own coat half on. “The duke sent me home early as I was nodding off at the desk. Someone’s been keeping me up nights, you know...” Luke pulled Edwin into his arms and held him tight. “I’m so glad to see you,” he whispered, his words thick with emotion. The news that Edwin would die had shaken him, though it clearly wasn’t the case. Edwin, though clearly surprised, didn’t pull back from the embrace. “I’m pleased to see you as well! Are you all right, Lucian? You seem troubled.” “I...” He wanted to tell him, but he couldn’t. “I’m better now. I was just worried about another attack.” “In broad daylight? No one would be so bold,” Edwin replied, patting Luke’s back. He pulled back and pressed a kiss to Luke’s lips. “Come, let’s have a cup of tea, then you can welcome me properly.” Edwin bustled around the kitchen, making tea as Luke watched him. He saw him in a new light now. The jolt he’d felt when he’d learned Edwin was supposed to be dead proved to him that he had strong feelings for him. More than sexual feelings. Did Edwin feel the same about him? Or was this just a lark? A diversion? What would Edwin’s continued existence mean for the timeline? Luke couldn’t see a way that Edwin’s manner of death could have affected history. He’d still be dead, whether by a carriage accident or by a mugging turned deadly. Changing the way Edwin died didn’t make much sense. There had to be something else. The speech tomorrow had to be the key. Something would happen to turn the House of Lords against Earl Grey and put their support behind the duke. Something catastrophic. “Lucian.” Edwin’s voice held impatience. “You haven’t been listening to a word I’ve said, have you?” Luke blinked. “Um. You were talking about tea?”

Edwin frowned. “No. I was suggesting that once the current session of Parliament has adjourned, I thought I might have a short holiday. In Paris.” Luke gazed at him blankly. “That sounds nice,” he said, wondering what the appropriate response would be. “Do I have to spell it out?” Edwin sighed, setting two china cups down on the table. “Spell what out?” Luke asked, bemused. Edwin sat down in the chair huffily. “You’re a bit thick, aren’t you? I’d like to see you again, Lucian. But, perhaps you don’t want to see me?” Luke gaped. He’d been so deep in thought about the mission that he’d forgotten his back story. He was supposed to be from Paris. “Oh. Of course I want to see you again!” he said hastily. Edwin still looked skeptical. “I rather expected a more enthusiastic response,” he said a little stiffly. Luke blinked. He’d clearly made a mistake he’d have to make up for. He stood up and walked around the small table to stand behind Edwin. He ran his hands through the man’s long hair, freeing it from its fastenings and tugging on it. “I believe I can exhibit a great deal of enthusiasm, Mr. Wright.” Edwin made a low purring sound and his lips parted. “Perhaps you can show me this enthusiasm after we drink our tea.” Luke pulled harder on Edwin’s hair. “Perhaps the tea could wait,” he suggested. Edwin chucked lowly. “Now I know for certain you are no Englishman.” He stood and moved into Luke’s arms. “You are very demanding, Mr. Martin.” Luke grinned as he slid his hands down Edwin’s body. “Is that a complaint?” He knew time was short, so he wanted to grab every bit of happiness he could. “I don’t believe I used the word complaint in reference to you,” Edwin replied. He looked at Luke innocently but the hard line in his trousers belied his need. “Good,” Luke said. “Because I believe I require your body again.” “As you are my guest, I must strive to fulfill your requirements,” Edwin nodded, eyes half lidded. Luke settled his hands on Edwin’s firm ass and groped. “Now,” he panted. This man just stole his reason.

Chapter Eight The next morning, Edwin and Luke were having breakfast when there came a sharp knock at the door, followed almost immediately by louder banging. Edwin frowned and headed for the door. “Such impatience,” he snapped, unlatching the door as Luke came up behind him, wary of another attack. It was the duke’s manservant. “Mr. Wright! There’s been...” The usually calm man was visibly agitated, red-faced and sweaty. “You must come immediately!” Edwin glanced at Luke, eyebrows raised. “Let me get my coat and we’ll go. Is the duke ill?” “No, but he bids you come straight away!” Luke grabbed his own coat and followed closely. He hoped no one would mind, but he didn’t think it was a good idea to let Edwin out of his sight. The manservant had a carriage waiting, and when they arrived at the duke’s residence they found chaos. The place was crawling with police and quite a crowd of onlookers. The police kept them back, but it was still unnerving to push past the crowd to enter the house. Immediately Edwin entered and was approached by several people, all talking animatedly and gesturing. Luke faded into the background, figuring he’d be in the way, and if no one noticed him, he would be able to observe things. The problem was, he was more interested in observing Edwin than anyone else. In fact, he had a real problem keeping his gaze off of him. He wondered if his mission was already hopelessly compromised. He really should remove himself from the situation now, but he wouldn’t. After a few moments, Edwin made his way back to where Luke stood. When Luke inquired, Edwin explained the evening’s events. “He woke to see a man standing over him with a knife!” Edwin exclaimed. “If he wasn’t so enamored of his hound as to let the beast sleep in his bedroom...the dog woke and barked loud enough to wake the dead! His Grace scrambled off the bed and the would-be murderer made good his exit. The duke tried to follow but he couldn’t fit out the window like

the man had.” Edwin shook his head. “I cannot believe the gall of criminals these days.” “Well, we were threatened, too,” Luke began. “That was different. That was out on the streets! This was in the duke’s very home!” Luke nodded, wondering if this attack was related to the time criminals. It had to be. Again, history made no mention of the incident, so once again time had been altered. He could only hope to limit the damage. “Will he postpone his speech?” Luke wondered. Edwin shook his head emphatically. “Not at all. In fact, His Grace is more determined than ever to stop the Reform Act! The vote will go on, so must the duke’s speech.” Luke sighed. This was going down, and it was going down now. He had no backup and no plan, but it was all up to him to react and judge the threat fast enough to eliminate it. He had to think fast. The culprits had to have more up their sleeves. There was no sure-fire way to affect the vote, short of making a drastic change that would have unforeseen ramifications. For example, they could kill Earl Grey. But, no one of note had been killed, that much Rina and the team had been able to judge. This plan was more complex than that. Something had happened, or would happen, that hadn’t been deemed major enough to include in the written histories. Luke had a feeling the event involved the earl. They’d had a go at the duke already. He had to find a way to get closer to Earl Grey. It would be difficult; even though he knew just where the earl would be today, there would be hundreds of other people around. The earl was a celebrity of his time, as was the duke. He had to be careful, so as not to cast suspicion on himself. The duke bustled around, ordering people about, and to Luke he seemed aglow from within, burning with a renewed fervor for his cause. Previously, the man had seemed slightly downtrodden by the resistance he’d met. It seemed the attempt on his life had given the duke a renewed purpose. It had to be significant. There was no time for anything else; the duke was due to give his arguments, and they all bustled off toward Parliament. Edwin was to ride with the duke in his carriage, of course, and Luke managed to insinuate himself as well. His hunches were usually right, and this one was telling him to stick close to Earl Grey. When they arrived at Parliament, Edwin made a quick apology and rushed off in the duke’s wake. That suited Luke just fine, because it left

him free to do what he needed to do. Though he was headed for the earl’s offices, he still kept his eyes and ears open for anything that seemed out of place. When he saw what he was looking for, he didn’t even realize it at first. He was a trained observer, yet some things are so ingrained in the consciousness that it look a long moment before he realized what was out of place. Just a glint of metal out of the corner of his eye—it could have been a watch chain, but there was something about it that just didn’t seem right. He turned to study the crowd, now congregated by the door to the balcony. Nothing unusual presented itself, and Luke began to doubt himself. Until a man separated from the crowd and walked toward a stairwell. Luke’s gaze followed him, wondering where he was going. Those stairs led to the Lords’ private offices, and though the man could easily have business there, Luke couldn’t help but watch him anyway. Luke moved through the crowd, keeping the man in sight while trying not to attract attention to himself. He kept watching the man, who walked nonchalantly, as if he had nothing in the world to hide. As the man raised his hand to grip the banister and climb the stairs, he saw it. His sleeve fell back an inch or two and there was the gleam of metal Luke had seen. Around his wrist the man wore a band, one that every person wore in Luke’s time, and Luke himself wore when he wasn’t time traveling. He was so used to wearing it that several times he’d almost forgotten to remove it before a jump, but TED’s system had built-in safeguards. The wristband was an ID of sorts, allowing people to enter their homes and offices without a key, access services, and any number of things that someone of Luke’s time took for granted. Children were fitted with one at age two or so; the band was made of an organic/metallic hybrid alloy that adapted to the person and grew with them. It wasn’t easy to take it off, indeed it was discouraged. Luke had special dispensation, of course, due to his job. In general, everyone had them so they weren’t noticed. Which was why it hadn’t immediately hit Luke what he was seeing. What he was seeing was another man from the future. Undoubtedly, the man he was after, who was clearly up to no good. All the waiting and wondering came to a head. Luke wouldn’t admit it, but he never felt more alive when he was in the thick of a mission. It wasn’t that he didn’t take his work seriously; but his adrenaline pumped now and he felt good.

The key was to follow the man without alerting him, so he could find out his plan. If he grabbed him too soon, he might miss an important component that had already been set in motion. He needed to catch him in the act, then question him. He especially needed to know if he was working alone. Luke couldn’t imagine there could be too many rogue time travelers—the cost of the equipment was astronomical, not to mention the power drain of actually using the equipment. The costs kept most criminals away from messing with the timeline. Luke followed at a distance as the man walked quickly up the steps. He had to hand it to him, he was good. The man gave no indication of stealth or subterfuge. If it hadn’t been for the wrist band Luke would never have noticed he didn’t belong. It was always tricky to follow someone, especially if that person had reason to avoid detection. Luckily, Luke had studied the plans of this building so he knew the general layout. So when the man took a left turn down a particular corridor, Luke immediately knew that the only offices down that hall were the earl’s. So he hung back for a moment, knowing he couldn’t lose him, then crept forward. He realized that he probably looked more suspicious than the criminal himself, but there was no help for that. Luke turned a final corner, in time to see the man burst into the office, hand in his pocket. “Shit,” Luke muttered, launching himself along the hallway, all pretense of subtlety gone. He’d wanted to catch the man before he’d gone in so he wouldn’t have to explain anything to the earl, but it was too late. He would settle for disrupting whatever plans the man had. He slid into the doorway, only to literally run into the man coming out. “Get out of my way,” the man growled, clearly discomfited, and Luke took in the office behind him. It was empty. Luke grinned. The man had finally made a miscalculation, and the earl was not in his office. “No,” he said, and pushed him back into the office. The man was clearly startled by the move and caught off guard, so by the time he’d recovered his balance, Luke had the door shut and was ready for him. The man came at Luke with a wide swing, but Luke saw it coming and ducked under easily. Unfortunately, the man then followed with a roundhouse kick that connected solidly with Luke’s side. “Fuck,” Luke grunted, managing to kick back and sweep the man’s feet from under him. The man went sideways, catching the back of a chair and sending it clattering against a bookshelf. He regained his feet but it was obvious he was in some pain.

“Give up,” Luke said, breathing faster. “I know who you are now, and what you’re doing here. It’s over.” He watched the man warily, certain he wouldn’t give up that easily. “And be locked away in some ‘humane’ prison for the rest of my life, undergoing ‘rehabilitation’?” the man scoffed, spitting out the words as if they were poison. “I’d rather die.” With that, he rushed Luke. It took everything Luke had to keep the man from hurting him. Indeed, the man seemed intent on murder or at least serious injury. Luke blocked almost every vicious punch and kick, but it wasn’t easy and a few of them slipped through. The man was a match for him, that was clear, and he fought like a man possessed, who had nothing to lose. Both of the men began to tire, though, and Luke got lucky with a punch to the face, and he heard a satisfying crunch as the man’s nose broke. The man staggered back, stunned, and Luke took advantage of the moment and kicked him squarely in the balls. No time for a fair fight. The man went down like a rock, curled around his injured portions, groaning. Luke paused for a moment, breathing hard, and wished he had his magnetic cuffs so he could immobilize the man. He looked around for anything with which to tie him up—the office held few possibilities. He only had seconds until the man recovered enough to attack again, and Luke didn’t honestly know if he could beat him. Better to take the chance now. He looked around and finally spotted it. The curtains were held back on each side by a piece of what looked like silken rope. It wasn’t ideal, but it was all he had. He just hoped it wasn’t too slippery to hold a knot. He yanked each piece out—they were only wrapped around a nail behind the curtain and came free relatively easily. The man was beginning to stir now and Luke rushed back to his side. He managed to get the man’s hands tied before he struggled too much. Luke was quite adept at tying, and though the man tried hard, he couldn’t free his hands. Luckily, Luke managed to secure the man’s feet before he remembered he could use them as a weapon, too. Then the man was essentially hogtied, and Luke stood over him, panting. The man glared up at him balefully. “You ready to have a conversation?” Luke said, hands on hips. He wanted to get some information, and make sure the man was secure, because he couldn’t jump them both back without warning the control room. The jump had to be calibrated for the correct mass, or things might go wrong. He’d have to jump forward then back again. It would be hell on him, but if was right, he’d just solved the problem. The man had clearly been after the earl, and he’d missed him. Hopefully, he’d foiled his plans.

“Fuck you,” the man grunted. Well, that was a good start. Luke tried again, in a more reasonable tone. “Look, you know I’m gonna drag you back, and then they’ll pump you full of all sorts of drugs and you’ll spill even your grandma’s deepest darkest secrets. You may as well tell me now and save some time: what the hell were you trying to accomplish?” The man just glared at him, mouth pressed into a line. Luke sighed inwardly. He was no good at interrogation, at least the humane methods, and if he hurt this guy any more he’d be in trouble with his bosses. The guy probably already had enough for a complaint against him. Luke shrugged. “Oh well, you’ve failed anyway. Whatever you were going to do with the earl, you missed him.” “You don’t know if I failed,” the man finally snarled. “You don’t even know what I was doing!” Luke noted the singular pronoun. Either the man really was alone in the past, or he was careful. “Sure we do,” he nodded, assaying a casual stance, though he was still keenly observing the man to make sure he was well tied. “You’re trying to get them to defeat the Reform Act, destabilize the country into a civil war.” He didn’t feel like letting on that he really hadn’t a clue why. A frown crossed the man’s face. “It’s not that simple,” he protested. “Of course not,” Luke said, trying a conciliatory tone he thought might coax more out of the man. “It didn’t go as planned, though?” “Everything was going perfectly until—” the man began to retort, then caught himself and fell silent. Luke sighed. Well, interrogation wasn’t his job. His job was to catch the man, and he’d done that. Now he had to get him back where he belonged, and hope he’d fixed things. He eyed the man, who struggled minutely but didn’t seem to get anywhere. He circled the man and tugged at his makeshift restraints, tightening a bit, then stood up. “Right. You just sit tight for a minute, sunshine. Don’t try anything.” It was a risk, but one that was unavoidable. He hit the recall button and braced himself. As soon as the jump room materialized, Luke moved. “I’ve got him,” he said urgently. He was pleased to see that Albert was there, too. “Recalibrate for a double, he’s probably about thirty pounds heavier than me.” The technician’s hands flew over the controls. “Is he restrained?” she asked. “Yes, tied, but not to anything. He’s on the floor,” Luke explained.

Rina’s voice came over the intercom. “The disturbance is clearing,” she said, her excitement evident even over the speaker. “You got him, Luke?” Luke grinned as he took his position again. It looked like there was only the one traveler. “Guess I did,” he said. “Send me back, let’s do this!” He loved it when things went right. The tech counted down and as he jumped, Luke realized he hadn’t even felt nauseous that time. The grin was still on his face as the earl’s office resolved around him, and he saw the man was still on the floor where he’d left him. Unfortunately, standing over him was Edwin. Who looked up just as Luke appeared out of thin air. Edwin went white as a sheet and took a step back. His eyes opened wide and his mouth formed an “O.” His hand went to his neck and he shook his head. “Lucian?” he croaked. “Fuck,” Luke said, with feeling. “Edwin. I...” Luke had never been caught jumping before. The rule books said to jump back immediately and not try to explain. The human mind had a great capacity to convince itself that if something was impossible, perhaps it didn’t really happen. This was different. This was Edwin, whom he’d made love to and almost certainly was in love with. He couldn’t just leave. “Lucian. What’s going on?” Edwin asked, a rising note of panic in his voice as he backed toward the door, which stood open. Luke moved fast, closing the door, as Edwin went on. “I was looking for you, someone said they saw you go this way, I wanted to tell you the Act passed after all, and the duke is furious...” Edwin was rambling now, shocked. “Edwin,” he said firmly, stepping toward him. “I can explain everything.” He took him by the shoulders and looked into his eyes. His heart pounded. He realized that since he’d likely solved the case he might not see him again and it was like a knife though his heart. Edwin gazed back, calming somewhat. “One moment you weren’t there and the next moment you were,” he breathed, running his hands down Luke’s chest as if to convince himself that he was real. Luke’s mind raced. Edwin was set to die in this timeline. He wouldn’t affect the future any further. “Look, Edwin. I know this is hard for you, but...” He glanced at the man on the floor. “This is the man who tried to kill us, and the duke. He was after the earl, and I caught him. That’s why I’m here. I’ve got to get him to the proper authorities.” Edwin’s eyes widened. “Are you with Scotland Yard?” Luke shook his head. “No, but I am a policeman of sorts. Now, can you trust me for a minute?”

Edwin bit his lip and nodded. “I don’t understand,” he said a bit plaintively. “I’ll explain it. I promise. Just give me a minute, okay?” He stepped back and stood next to the man on the floor, taking hold of his arm firmly. “Don’t move. I promise I’ll be right back.” Edwin nodded, and Luke activated the jump button. **** “What took you so damn long?” bellowed Albert as Luke materialized, the bound man on the floor next to him. Two big men stepped forward to grab him. “I’ll explain later,” Luke said hastily, then told the tech, “I need to jump back, then recalibrate for another double, this time the person’s about my size.” “There’s another one?” demanded Albert, stepping close. “You didn’t tell us—” “No time!” Luke interrupted, letting the misconception ride. He was going to be in so much trouble... “Jump NOW!” The tech nodded, and Luke was back in the earl’s office, and he staggered a little. Jumping so often was getting to him. Edwin was still there, looking anxious. “Where did you go, Lucian? What’s going on?” he asked, when he saw Luke. “I’ll explain in a moment,” Luke said, pulling Edwin into his arms. “Do you trust me?” he asked. “Yes,” Edwin said after a moment. “What are you, Lucian? Who are you?” “I’ll show you,” Luke said, and they jumped.

Chapter Nine Edwin slumped against him as the jump room materialized around him. “Lucian! What—” “Edwin. Just lean on me, it will pass,” Luke reassured him, holding him upright. “Luke! What the HELL? Who is this?” Albert stood there, rage clear on his face. “Al, I can explain,” Luke began, as he helped Edwin off the dais. Edwin raised his head and looked around him. He gasped sharply and his hand tightened around Luke’s arm. “What manner of place is this?” Luke could imagine what the control room must look like to Edwin. Incomprehensible. “Al—” “Don’t call me Al.” “Sorry. Look. I’ll explain. I just need some time, okay?” He gave Albert his most pleading look. “Trust me. Please. Give me an hour.” The big man’s eyes narrowed and he sighed. “One hour. Then you damn well better be in my office with a really good explanation.” “I will be.” He tightened his arms around Edwin. “Don’t leave the clean area,” Albert warned, and Luke nodded. He appreciated his boss’ unusual tact. They didn’t know what sort of germs Edwin might harbor, and everyone who came in and out had to go through a sterilization procedure. Edwin was eerily silent as Luke led him down a corridor. Luke had a small office here, though he rarely used it. They could at least be alone. He closed the door behind them, and Edwin jumped as it slid closed. As if the closing of the door had unlocked his voice, Edwin began to speak. “What is this place? What is happening? Where are we? Am I dead? Why was that man tied up? Where did he go?” Luke waited until Edwin quieted, then said, “If you let me speak I’ll explain.” Edwin opened his mouth, then closed it again. He nodded once, then looked at Luke expectantly. Luke took a deep breath. “Okay. So, it’s the year 1832, right?” Edwin nodded, frowning, and Luke went on. “Actually, now it’s the year 2259.” He watched Edwin’s reaction closely.

Edwin spoke softly. “My first impulse, of course, is to ask if you’ve quite taken leave of your senses. But,” and now we looked around the room, “it appears as if I’m the one who’s gone round the bend.” He shook his head. “You’re not imagining anything, Edwin,” Luke assured him, glad he seemed to be taking it calmly. “This is all real.” He wondered if H.G. Wells had written his Time Machine yet. It would be easier to explain then. He didn’t think so. “You’ve traveled in time. To the future.” Edwin shook his head as if to clear it. “That, that’s not possible,” he said, but without much conviction. “Not in 1832, no. In 2259 it is.” Luke spread his arms. “This is real. You’re here.” Edwin stepped closer. “I must be dreaming.” He reached out to touch Luke’s arm tentatively. “You’re not. It’s real. I’m real.” He pulled Edwin into his arms and held him tight. “Doesn’t this feel real?” “Yes,” Edwin admitted, pressing against Luke in a way that threatened to distract him from the issue at hand. “Please, explain.” Luke began to explain the Reform Act situation. He saw no need to hold back anything; after all, Edwin was now out of the timeline and couldn’t go back. Unless, they wiped his memory. “So the Reform Act was supposed to pass, and this person was trying to stop it,” Edwin summarized, looking shaky but calmer. Luke nodded. “It seemed he—or they, because he had to have others helping him—wasn’t averse to killing to do it.” Edwin frowned. “Were we supposed to die, then?” “Yes. Well, you were,” Luke said. He wasn’t going to tell Edwin he had been meant to die regardless. The man must have hired some local thugs to do his bidding. “I think he only meant to frighten the duke, to further inspire him against the act.” “So what was he doing in the earl’s office?” “I believe he had planned to delay him, so he’d miss his speech and the duke would have no one to rebut him. He couldn’t have killed either the duke or the earl, because that would have changed history too much.” Edwin hesitated. “But, he was willing to have me killed.” Oops. Edwin was quick. “Yes, well, as you were unlikely to father any children...” Edwin interrupted. “Why aren’t you changing history by bringing me here?” Luke sighed. “I wasn’t going to tell you this.” Edwin crossed his arms. “I think you’d better.”

“You were meant to die. At least, in our history. A carriage accident. We think the man knew that, and wanted to make your death more dramatic to the duke by making it a mugging using hired help. The manner of your death could be manipulated, as long as you weren’t in the timeline.” Luke watched as Edwin paled. “I should be dead?” he whispered. “Yes. You should have been, and you would have been, had I not come back in time.” Luke nodded. “So I fucked up, and changed history by saving you.” Edwin was silent for a long moment. “Did you know that before we— ” “No,” Luke assured him. “I didn’t know until much later, when I jumped back and had them run your name. I don’t know what ramifications your survival might have had. Certainly not as much as if the act had not passed.” Edwin sat down in a chair, then jumped up again as it tried to conform to his body. “The chair moved!” Luke grinned. “Yeah, I hate that, too. Hang on.” He reached down and pushed a button. “There. I deactivated it. Try it now.” Edwin sat down gingerly, and when the chair didn’t react he relaxed fractionally. He looked up at Luke. “This is what you do as your profession?” “Yeah. I go back in time and fix shit,” Luke grinned. “And is part of that job bedding the locals?” Edwin’s tone had gone cold. Luke’s mouth dropped open. “Of course not! We’re not supposed to get involved at all! Why do you think I ran away that first night?” Edwin’s eyes narrowed. “Hmm. You did seem reluctant. But, you came back, and pursued me again.” Nodding, Luke replied, “Yeah. Totally against the rules. I’m gonna be in deep shit.” Edwin raised an eyebrow. “I assume ‘deep shit’ is not a good thing.” “Yeah. Sorry. Figure of speech.” Now that Luke was back in his own time, he had dropped back into his usual vernacular. Edwin sat back and appeared to consider. “So what happens now?” “Well. We’ll have a briefing. First priority is whether or not I fixed the timeline. If I did, and didn’t change anything else by bringing you back, then things won’t be too bad. I hope.” “Well, that answers the next question I was about to ask,” Edwin said dryly. “What?” Luke asked, feeling a bit confused.

“If you make it a habit of finding some lonely man—or woman,” he added, looking sideways at Luke. “Bedding them, then bringing them home with you.” “If I made it a habit I’d be out of a job,” Luke replied. “Despite what it may look like, I am pretty good at what I do.” Edwin appeared to consider. “I suppose you’re right, about being out of a job. As for the rest, well, we don’t know if it worked yet, do we?” Edwin’s tone lightened just a bit. Luke tried a small smile. “You’re taking this all rather well.” Edwin shrugged. “In my position, one has to be practical.” He looked around. “It is clear that what I see around me is not possible in my time. So, either I have traveled forward in time, or I have taken leave of my senses. In which case it doesn’t matter, does it?” Luke’s smile widened. “Eminently practical, Mr. Wright.” He stepped closer. “I’ve met people before whom I know are destined to die, Edwin. I always feel bad, but I know I can’t do anything about it. It’s hard, but I’ve never met anyone like you. Never met anyone I, well, felt I couldn’t live without.” Edwin blinked. “What if I was meant to live?” he asked softly. “What would you have done then, if you had had to leave me there?” “I would have spent as much time as possible with you,” Luke said sadly. “Then I would have come home with a broken heart.” Edwin bit his lip. “You certainly do have a way with words, Mr. Martin,” he sighed. “I suppose that’s why I find you so irresistible.” Luke grinned and leaned down, putting one hand on either arm of Edwin’s chair. “Does that mean you forgive me?” Edwin assayed a small pout, and looked up at him. “Perhaps. What I don’t forgive you for is making me fall in love with you.” Luke’s delighted smile and his response were interrupted by the chime of the intercom. “Martin, get your skinny ass in here now. And bring our guest.” “On the way,” Luke replied, then sighed. “Al always has the worst timing.” He straightened. “Showtime.” Luke led the way to Albert’s office, and out of the corner of his eye he watched Edwin take everything in. He could appreciate what it all looked like to the nineteenth-century man. It often looked weird to him when he returned from an extended time in the past, and he was trained to observe and look at things objectively. He admired Edwin even more for staying so calm in the face of something that must seem incomprehensible to him.

Luke stopped in front of the door, and reached out to grab Edwin’s hand. “Whatever happens, they won’t send you back. They can’t. Al is an asshole sometimes, but he’s fair. I’ll be in some trouble but nothing major. I love you.” That last had slipped out much more easily than he’d imagined it would. He smiled. Edwin nodded and smiled back, albeit wanly. “I’m as ready as I ever will be.” Luke took a deep breath and pressed his palm on the door. It slid open, and he let Edwin enter before him. Albert sat behind his desk, and Rina stood beside him. Her eyes went from Luke to Edwin and back again, then she smirked. Luke gave her a dirty look. Albert seemed oblivious to the subtext. “Well, you’re either really good or really lucky,” Albert said without preamble. “I prefer good,” Luke answered, and Rina snickered. “Well, be that as it may,” Albert continued, “you did it. The timeline is fixed. The ripples have disappeared. Everything is back to normal.” Luke glanced at Rina, who smiled. “That’s great!” He glanced at Edwin. “See, I told you it would be fine.” Albert looked pained. “Yes, it appears your judgment, even concerning Mr. Wright here, was right on.” Luke let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. “So he can stay.” “You know damn well we don’t have a choice,” his boss growled. “He needed to be out of the timeline, and the way you did it, though unorthodox, accomplished that.” His eyes narrowed. “You’re the luckiest man I’ve ever met.” “It’s not luck, it’s skill.” Luke grinned. Albert grimaced. “Whatever it is, yes, he can stay. There’s a shitload of paperwork, but when did you ever care about that?” “That’s why they pay you the big bucks,” Luke said happily. He glanced at Edwin, who stayed silent. “He can stay with me, one less thing for you to worry about. I’ll be his sponsor.” “I was just about to ask if you would be.” Albert nodded. He finally focused on Edwin. “Mr. Wright. I assume Luke has explained the situation?” Edwin nodded. “Yes, sir. I’m still a bit confused, but I understand it’s the year 2259 and I thank you for allowing me to stay. And live.” He bowed slightly. Albert’s expression softened. “This situation is not unprecedented. We do have programs in place to help you acclimatize to this time. But,

we find that having a sponsor, someone who will guide you, helps enormously. Luke is volunteering to be your sponsor, but you are under no obligation to accept. We can assign someone else, and find you another place to stay.” Luke kept his mouth shut with effort. Edwin looked at him with amusement in his eyes. “I think he’ll do,” he said finally. “Oh, thanks,” muttered Luke, and Rina grinned. “Right, it’s settled then,” Albert said, shuffling some papers in front of him. “Luke, I’ll need your reports ASAP—” “You’ll get them, but after that I’m taking a week off,” he announced, and his boss’ eyes snapped to him. “You just took a holiday,” he snapped. “I still have, like, two thousand days saved up,” Luke replied, “and I want to be able to fully, um, sponsor Edwin here.” He barely kept a straight face. “You’re terrible,” Rina spoke up. “No, I’m goooood,” Luke shot back, and they both laughed. Edwin smirked, and Albert sighed. “Get the fuck out of my office, Martin.” Luke took Edwin’s arm and led him out of the office before his boss changed his mind. When they were in the corridor together, Edwin turned to Luke. “So that’s it? It’s all over and I can stay? It seems too simple.” “Well, like Al said, there’s paperwork. There will be a hearing for you, but that’s mostly a formality. There are a few meetings you’ll have to go to, some medical tests. You’ll have to stay with me until those are completed. After that, you can do whatever you want.” Luke hoped what he wanted was Luke, but... “Whatever I want?” Edwin asked, and Luke began to guide him down a corridor. “What about money? I don’t have a job...” “There’s a fund set up, to provide for people who get stranded out of their time. My parents actually helped set it up,” Luke said proudly. “You can work if you want to, and we can help you find a job.” Edwin blinked. “It’s so much to take in,” he said softly. “I know. Don’t take it all in yet. Let’s go to my place and I’ll fix you some dinner and we can rest, okay?” Edwin smiled. “You can cook?” Luke nodded. “Yes. I love to cook. I’m good at it, believe it or not!” “Sounds lovely,” Edwin said. “So, let’s go.” “Okay. We just have to go through a couple of screens before we get out. Detox, that kind of thing. Kill the germs.”

“Germs?” Edwin wondered. “It won’t hurt, I promise,” Luke said, and soon they were through. They both wore TED-issued jumpsuits, and Edwin peered down at himself. “I’m not sure about this,” he said dubiously. “Is this what you wear? It’s not very stylish.” Luke laughed. “It’s just temporary. You can wear whatever you want, though you may find the styles a bit odd at first. We’ll get you some clothes tomorrow. Or we can have some made, in whatever style you like.” Edwin began to yawn, then covered his mouth. “Yes, tomorrow. It’s been rather a busy day.” He smiled at Luke. “Just a bit.” Luke’s apartment was a short distance from TED’s offices, and they arrived there within ten minutes. There wasn’t much to see on the walkways, but he couldn’t wait to show Edwin the view from his window. For his part, Edwin seemed to take everything in silently. Luke palmed open the door, and bowed slightly. “May I welcome you to my humble abode, Mr. Wright?” Edwin smiled slightly and stepped in, eyes wide. Luke brought up the lights while Edwin looked around. He stepped to the window and looked out. The sun was just beginning to set over the Pacific Ocean, sending orange-gold streamers across the lightly clouded sky. The urban sprawl of the Los Angeles area spread out in the distance, barely visible and therefore not as ugly as usual. “We’re not in England,” he said, bemused. “Nope. California. The west coast of America.” California hadn’t been a state in 1832, and Luke wasn’t sure if Edwin would be familiar with it. Edwin turned to face Luke. “Well, at least you’re not really French,” he joked. Luke laughed. “I do have some French on my mother’s side, way back.” “I think I can forgive that,” Edwin said, stepping closer. “Lucian. I don’t know where this leaves us.” Luke felt a surge of emotion toward Edwin. “I know where I’d like us to be.” He pulled Edwin gently into his arms. “Where?” Edwin asked, tilting his head up to look into Luke’s eyes. “In bed?” His tone was lightly teasing, but Luke could sense the seriousness underneath. This was a man who had been ripped from everything he knew, everyone he knew, in an instant. Edwin was coping remarkably well considering the circumstances. Luke wanted to take care of him.

“Well, there’s that,” Luke acknowledged. “You’re still the sexiest man I’ve ever met. Do you realize we can go anywhere we want, hold hands, kiss in public! We never have to hide who we are.” Edwin gazed at him wonderingly. “That’s incredible.” “More than that,” Luke went on, “I love you, Edwin Wright. I want to be with you. In every sense of the word. Live together. Get married. All of it.” Edwin’s eyes widened. “We can get married? Truly?” His cheeks turned an attractive shade of pink. “If you want,” Luke nodded. “What do you want, Edwin?” Edwin snuggled into Luke’s arms, relaxing. “Just you.” “Easily arranged.” Luke grinned. He tightened his embrace, savoring the feeling of Edwin’s body against his. They fit together so well. He rubbed Edwin’s back gently, and Edwin burrowed deeper into his arms. The embrace was comfortable, but despite—or maybe because of— the tension of the day, his body began to react to Edwin’s. Edwin was the most attractive man he’d ever met. Edwin clearly felt Luke’s desire, because he pressed closer, his movements changing subtly. He pressed his lips against Luke’s neck, breathing hotly. Luke moaned, his hands slipping lower, to the curve of Edwin’s ass. “I want you so much,” Luke groaned, rocking his hips slightly. “I know,” Edwin whispered, and Luke gasped as he felt the other man’s hand insinuate itself between their bodies. Edwin rubbed the heel of his hand against Luke’s stiffening cock. “Do you have a sturdy bed, Mr. Martin? Big enough for two?” “Oh yeah,” Luke panted. “Why? Do you need to be taken hard, Mr. Wright?” He pressed against Edwin’s hand, cock already aching. “I do believe,” Edwin said, in a tone that he might have used to discuss the weather, which made it all the more sexy in Luke’s opinion, “that I need to be fucked into the mattress.” With a groan, Luke reached up and unfastened Edwin’s long hair, then got a good grip on it, making Edwin moan. “Then we are in perfect agreement.” He led Edwin through the apartment, never letting go of his hair, until they reached the bedroom. The lights came on automatically, illuminating the spacious bedroom. The bed was indeed quite large, and covered in a black and gold silky cover; the rest of the décor followed that color scheme. Neither man noticed much of their surroundings, though. Luke pulled Edwin to him and they kissed, hard, tongues sparring as they tried to get as close as possible. It was still hard for Luke to believe that he had Edwin

here, in his home, in his time. It almost seemed like a dream, but a very real one. Edwin pulled back, panting. “Get these clothes off me, quickly.” Luke nodded. “I can do that.” He unfastened the jumpsuit and had Edwin out of it within seconds. “You’ve done that before,” Edwin said, smirking. “A time or two,” admitted Luke, shedding his own clothes. “I’ll only disrobe you from now on.” Edwin grinned. “You’d better not. Now come here.” Luke resumed his position, pressed against Edwin, and pushed him toward the bed. “Soft,” Edwin said approvingly, as Luke eased him back onto it. Luke nodded. “All the better to fuck you hard.” “So poetic,” Edwin responded. “Less talk, more cock.” With a delighted laugh, Luke pinned Edwin to the bed. Edwin played at struggling, but Luke could tell it was only so their bodies would rub together more. “Need you so much,” Luke panted as their cocks generated friction. “You have me. Any time you want,” Edwin moaned, spreading his legs. “This is no time for puns,” Luke scolded him breathlessly as he reached for a tube. Edwin laughed in exasperation. “It was unintentional!” Then he gasped. “What are you doing?” “Sorry, the lube is a little cold at first,” Luke said apologetically as he slipped another finger inside Edwin. “Oil is warm,” Edwin pouted, wriggling. “But this works so much better,” insisted Luke, demonstrating how easily three fingers slid in. “And lasts longer.” “I’ll take your, mmm, word for it,” Edwin whimpered as Luke stroked his prostate. “Trust me,” Luke purred, trying not to wince as he smoothed the cool gel on his aching cock. It was quite cold. Edwin bit his lip as he looked up at him. “I do trust you,” he said quietly. “Completely.” All joking gone, Luke breathed, “I love you,” then kissed Edwin as he eased inside him. The two men moaned together as their mouths and bodies joined. Luke slid all the way inside Edwin, claiming him once again, the tight heat stealing his breath. They kissed desperately as they moved together, spurring their heated bodies toward climax. Deeper, faster, harder. Edwin clung to Luke as he

pounded in and out. Every thrust felt better, every stroke took them higher. Sweat dampened the sheets as muscles worked toward pleasure. Luke knew he was only seconds from his release, so he reached between them to palm Edwin’s surging cock. Edwin’s cry preceded his climax, but just barely, and Luke succumbed as well when he felt Edwin’s body contract around him. “Wow,” Luke breathed when he remembered how to speak. He lay beside Edwin, both of them panting and blissed out. “Mmm, yes, I agree,” Edwin mumbled, rolling so that he cuddled up to Luke. “Can we stay here for a week?” “Of course we can,” Luke sighed. “We have all the time in the world.” He giggled at his pun, and Edwin punched him weakly.

Epilogue “I should never have brought you back,” Luke said, shaking his head as he stood in the doorway of the office. Edwin’s office. “Just a minute,” Edwin waved one hand vaguely at him. “I want to finish these notes.” “It’s eight thirty. You promised me dinner.” Edwin finally looked over the monitor at Luke and smiled. “I’m sorry, love. I lost track of the time.” A few curls had escaped Edwin’s hair tie and Luke thought he looked adorable. “I just wanted to be prepared for tomorrow.” “I know,” Luke smiled fondly, walking closer. “You’re just too dedicated.” In the few short months since Edwin had joined Luke in the future, things had happened quickly. The man Luke had captured in the past had initially refused to speak, but when faced with the prospect of life in jail, he’d given up his cohorts in crime. The plan had been revealed very nearly as Luke had imagined it: the men, four of them, were a group of anarchists who had dearly believed that by changing the past they’d destabilize it enough to change the future into what they craved. Somehow the group, fiercely dedicated to abolishing all authority, had managed to work together to set their complex plan in motion. They might have nearly succeeded in their goal— with the uncertainty of the time stream, no one knew for sure. What they did know was that the simulations were clear again, and they’d shut down the makeshift lab the men had been working from. The setup had been so unstable that it was a wonder that they’d been able to jump at all, and had only been able to manage the one jump. Therefore, the man had been resigned to stay in the past, and would have continued to try to sabotage the government at every turn, even if this plan hadn’t worked. It was a good thing Luke had found him in time. All four men were now safely locked away for varying lengths of time. Hopefully they’d come out rehabilitated, but Luke doubted it. In the course of the investigation, Edwin had proven himself so useful as an advisor that he’d been offered a permanent position with TED. Luke felt so proud of his lover. He had something that was all his own.

As for the two of them, they were to be married the next day; Edwin and Luke had planned the ceremony for weeks, but Edwin was meticulous in his part of the planning. That was a trait he brought to nearly every task, a painstaking attention to detail that had served him well as the duke’s secretary and even better as an advisor to current missions. But it also meant that Luke often waited for Edwin to finish at the end of the day. Luke, however, had had to travel through time to find his true love. He didn’t mind waiting a little while longer.

About the Author Inspired by the important things in life: beauty, love, and passion, Jade Falconer has spent several years writing erotic fiction. The forbidden nature of homoeroticism has been the basis for many megabytes of fiction that has delighted a wide circle of online readers.