Leather Jackets

Wynn DeRocher's talent and ambition catapulted his band to the top of the charts, but he paid a steep price to achieve success. He needs a flesh and blood man, one who understands the demands of his music. He needs the man he let get away - Jude Thatcher.

Wynn pitches a proposal to Jude - a lucrative job modeling the band's new line of signature logo'd clothing. Jude accepts but both men know it'll take more than fancy dinners and limo rides to convince him to risk his heart again.

To covet might be a sin, but Jude needs a gesture of good faith. And he wants Wynn's leather jacket as much as he wants Wynn. Almost.

* * * * *

Wynn held the hip-length coat for me as I slipped my arms into the sleeves, then he let the weight of it come to rest on my shoulders. The jacket was light, but incredibly warm. I flipped open the left side to check the lining.

"Don't bother. You'd have to cut the cloth to see what the insulating layer is."

I stretched my arms out in front of my chest. The jacket moved with me, giving just enough to remain comfortable.

"This is a nice jacket. I see why you liked. Does he make bombers?"

Wynn reached in the closet and pulled out a black bomber complete with silver studs and chains. He caressed a front panel. "This is so you, Jude. Take it."

For a moment, I was tempted. "I can't accept this. It's hand-stitched so I'm sure it was expensive."

"Nine large. But take it. Call it a signing bonus."

"Wynn, I don't know the first thing about modeling. You need a professional, or better yet, model this yourself. Your fans will go wild."

His fingers trailed down my leather-clad arm until they found mine. He hesitated, then stroked his thumb over my knuckles. His voice was so low I had to strain to hear it.

"I knew you were here, Jude. I came back to Marionville to find you."