A Brighter, Darker Art - Halli Starling

A chance meeting at a bar.

An instant connection.

But that connection turns from a spark into all business. For the moment.

And it's a really bad idea to date the boss...

Raphael (Raf) Lutz, is under immense stress with the opening of his fifth art gallery in a few months. He's mentally and physically exhausted, and given his perfectionist nature, deeply concerned that this gallery won't stack up to the rest. His best friend, Ambrose and Ambrose's boyfriend, Barrett, have trusted Raf with a very special set of illustrations belonging to Barrett's deceased friend. Raf is making the illustrations a highlight of the gallery's opening, and it has to be just right. Perfect. But he's drowning and he needs a marketing manager yesterday.

On the other side of town, Silvan Diedrich has just been downsized from the marketing firm he helped build, and drowning his sorrows in a few drinks and maybe some company sounds about right. The man who takes the stool beside him is dangerously handsome with a clear flair for the dramatic. Company, indeed. But as he and Raf talk, Raf offers him the one thing Silvan hadn't been expecting - an interview.

Which he passes with flying colors.

But close proximity to Raf, day after day, is far too much temptation. Raf doesn't need any more complications. Silvan's not been with anyone in a long time, as he's been the primary parent for his now college-aged daughter.

So they make a deal. Hands off, for now.

Sticking to that deal proves to be rather difficult for both of them.

The companion to Ask Me For Fire , but can stand alone.