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The Professor's Assistant

by Bren Christopher

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Erotica/Romance

Atlantic Bridge

www.atlanticbridge.net

Copyright ©2011 by Bren Christopher

First published in 2011

NOTICE: This work is copyrighted. It is licensed only for use by the original purchaser. Making copies of this work or

distributing it to any unauthorized person by any means, including without limit email, floppy disk, file transfer, paper print out, or
any other method constitutes a violation of International copyright law and subjects the violator to severe fines or imprisonment.

CONTENTS

Blurb

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

* * * *

Published by Liquid Silver Books, Imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509 Sedgegrass

Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana. Copyright 2011, Bren Christopher. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the
authors.

This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the

author's imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or
persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental.

Blurb

Lured by rumors of a momentous invention, Agent Julian Blake steps into the New York Gate

and emerges outside London. It is the same year, 1885, but an Earth parallel to his own. The two
timelines are almost identical, but the slight variation is enough to threaten his mission as it
includes an attitude toward same-sex attraction that is less than accepting.

He never expected that difference to pose a problem. Julian has an important mission to

complete; a mission with far-reaching consequences not only across the alternate Earths, but into
their pasts. For the momentous invention is a working time machine. And the inventor's assistant
is a beautiful, auburn-haired young man named Daniel who causes Julian to disregard the
Department rules he has lived by for so long.

But there are others interested in the professor's new invention, and when tragedy strikes, the

professor's lovely assistant might just be the only person left alive with the knowledge to recreate
the device.

Now Daniel is a target, and Julian is in a race to protect him and retrieve the knowledge of the

time machine from those who would misuse it.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter One

The little black pony pranced gracefully in a circle in front of the fascinated crowd. But when

the movements became slower and more hesitant, and then finally stopped altogether, the
elegantly clad men and women drifted away to another exhibition. The student responsible for the
finely crafted automaton reached for the horse's arched neck and began winding the key. The little
horse sprang back into life and a new crowd gathered.

Although Julian had arrived early, the Institute grounds were already crowded with gentlemen

in frock coats and ladies sporting feathered and flowered hats against the rare occurrence of a
bright and sunny spring day in London. The annual graduation exhibition seemed a popular event,
not only for the representatives of government and industry seeking the young scientists for
employment, but also for those citizens who simply held some scientific curiosity.

Swinging his brass-tipped mahogany cane, Julian strolled the landscaped grounds of the

Institute for Electro-Mechanical Sciences, trying to spot any new invention which might be the
source of the rumor responsible for bringing him here, to this parallel Earth of 1885.

According to the briefing he'd received at HQ prior to his departure, this London was a 98.9

percent match to the one in his own timeline. He felt a deceptive sense of familiarity with his
surroundings. In some ways it was better to travel further, to parallel dimensions that had
diverged more radically from the home world. It kept an agent alert rather than being lulled into a
false sense of confidence by the similarity to one's own timeline.

As they liked to point out back home at the Department, “It's the one percent that'll kill you.”
Julian had arrived the previous day, materializing outside town. The transition had felt rough,

and the familiar nausea and dizziness more severe than he usually experienced. He had leaned one
hand against a sturdy oak tree for some time, catching his breath and waiting for his stomach to
settle.

The improved Parallel Gate in New York allowed travel to other locations as well as to

parallel Earths. He had volunteered to be one of the first to try it, thereby saving himself a three-
day airship journey from New York to the London Gate. However, it seemed there was still some
recalibration to be done.

Finally he had straightened his clothing and retrieved his bowler and cane. The spring air was

invigorating—still cool enough to call for the knee-length topcoat he'd shrugged on. Dressed as a
gentleman and armed with a hard luck story regarding the loss of his horse in a card game, Julian
had no problem finding a ride into town with a farmer carrying a load of grain to market.

From his high vantage point atop the cart's wooden bench seat, he had observed the

surrounding traffic with great curiosity. The new steam-powered cars and two-wheeled vehicles
passed them, crowding the horses and eliciting curses from their riders as the noise spooked the
ponies, and making an already bumpy ride on the farmer's cart even rougher.

The traffic had grown even heavier as they entered the city gates. A busy place, the London of

this timeline—a city full of possibilities. Perhaps the rumor he chased would have a grain of truth
to it after all.

After settling at an inn, he had purchased a horse and begun his enquiries at various

establishments around town. It hadn't taken long to determine the Institute was the most likely
source of any new inventions in the area.

Looking around now at the various displays of scientific accomplishment, he found it difficult

to know where to begin, as he had not a hint regarding the nature of the new invention he was
obliged to track down. Was it mechanical? Students demonstrated a steam-powered horse
proposed to assist in the plowing of fields. Was it electrical? There was a display of the new
lighting already taking the place of the gaslight used in homes and street lamps. Was it chemical
in nature? Small explosions blasted a field removed from the majority of the crowd, while men in
uniform watched intently from a safe distance.

Julian wandered to a circle surrounding a fanciful mechanical dragon. The machine easily

stood five feet tall and measured twice as long. Wanting a closer view, he wove his way through
the crowd to find a spot at the very front. As the dragon moved its many-jointed limbs, gyros
whirred and gears clicked. Students with rolled-up sleeves oiled its joints and stoked the coal in
its belly. They closed the hatch and stood back. One pulled a lever and the dragon opened its
mouth and roared fire.

It was an impressive display until the fire did not cease, but instead increased in intensity. The

onlookers began to fall back with growing alarm. Julian remained, fascinated. Students ran about,
shouting and adding to the general chaos.

The young man who had pulled the lever ran frantically toward the dragon, trying to reach the

hatch to rake out the coal and relieve the pressure. He yelled, “Daniel, Daniel! It's going to
explode!”

“I told you it was too much, Stephen. You've got to pay more attention to the pressure

gauges.” Another, slightly older youth joined the first. He popped open the hatch with a metal
rod, letting out smoke and steam. With a loud whoosh, the dragon collapsed, throwing soot into
the air to rain down upon the unfortunate Stephen and the red-haired young man who had tamed
the dragon.

Julian hardly noticed. Daniel, he thought. Daniel. For one brief moment he felt frozen,

suspended in time. The red-haired youth approached him and spoke but Julian could only stare at
him helplessly.

“I said, are you quite all right, sir?” The lad—Daniel, Julian repeated to himself yet again—

wiped at the soot on his face, smearing the black marks across his cheek, and then swiped his
hands on his previously white linen shirt. Long, stray auburn strands escaped from the short black
ribbon holding the hair back from the most adorable heart-shaped face Julian had ever seen.

He took in a deep breath and then let it out slowly. Interest in the same sex was not as

accepted here as in his timeline. Definitely part of the 1.1 percent difference that might get him
into difficulty if he weren't careful.

He smiled brightly. “Yes, quite all right. A bit messy I suppose.” He looked down at his own

shirt ruefully. “Still, nothing that won't wash off, right?”

The two young men appeared relieved he wasn't making more of a fuss. Daniel turned to the

other man. “The gauges are blown. You'll have to get some lads to help you drag it back to the
workshop.” Stephen, looking crestfallen, went to find some helpers.

Daniel turned back to Julian. “You're an American, sir, from your accent? Surely you haven't

come all this way to attend our demonstrations?”

“I'm very interested.” Julian held out his hand. “Julian Blake. Pleased to make your

acquaintance.”

“Daniel Sinclair.” Daniel started to hold out his hand and then looked at the soot covering it

and stopped. “Perhaps we'd best forego shaking hands. Shall I show you to the lavatory?”

“Of course, you're quite correct.” Julian smiled at him and added, “That would be most

appreciated.”

But Julian didn't move and Daniel gave him a polite smile in return. They were almost the

same height with the youth being more fine-boned and slender. Their eyes met and Daniel's polite
smile turned uncertain as a faint flush colored his cheeks under the streaks of soot.

Julian couldn't take his gaze from the hazel eyes, a light brown shining with tiny green flecks.

He felt his face grow warm. One percent, remember? Oh, Julian, you are in so much trouble.

Daniel blinked and looked away. “It's this way.”
They walked toward one of the many large red brick buildings which made up the campus.

Julian felt a strong need to make conversation, to keep Daniel's attention. “So the dragon wasn't
your experiment? Are you one of the graduating students?”

“No. I graduated from this level two years ago. I'm in Advanced Studies and sometimes tutor

the younger students. I thought I'd help Stephen today with his dragon. I don't normally work with
the mechanicals any longer.”

He looked so young. Julian wondered if he dared ask Daniel his age. Surely if he had already

graduated, it wouldn't be robbing the cradle? Julian stopped himself. It didn't matter; he had a
mission to complete.

Daniel showed him the wet towels and they wiped soot from their skin.
“Here,” Julian said, “you've still got a little on your face.” Without thinking, he reached out

with the wet rag to wipe the soot off Daniel's cheek. He hesitated when he realized what he was
doing but the young man showed no sign of pulling away. He just stared at him with his wide
hazel eyes.

Julian finished, running one thumb along the man's cheekbone to be sure all the soot was

gone, and then stepped back. “Better. I think we got it all.” He wiped at his own shirt, pulling his
coat closer to hide the streaks on the white linen. “I think that is the best we can do. Do I look
presentable? I intended to talk to your administrator—Dr. Barrington, isn't it? Do you think he is
available for a quick chat today?”

“Yes.” Daniel seemed a little dazed. Julian winced, regretting the impulse that had made him

reach out to the younger man. But then Daniel's face cleared and he stepped back, frowning.
“May I ask your business, sir? You never really told me why you are here.”

“Why, the same as all your other visitors, I imagine. This is truly a wonderful place. There are

so many new inventions, so many new ideas. I am a representative of the American Seaboard
Trading Company in New York. We might be interested in investing in some of these new
mechanicals and the other marvels I have seen here today.”

Now Daniel appeared positively suspicious, his former dazed aspect replaced by a spark of

anger. “A businessman.”

Julian raised his eyebrows. “Have I said something wrong? I would think an investor would

be welcomed by the Institute administration.”

“You are quite correct. They will welcome you. They need the funding. But men of business

and men of war want only to take our inventions and turn them to profit or to battle, not caring
who is injured along the way.” He sounded bitter.

Julian protested. “That is not always true. If you had more funds for the steam-powered horse,

for example, it could be developed and in use before the new planting season. Think of the
potential food production. Such an investment would benefit all—the Institute, the farmers, the
people—and the company would still make a profit.”

“You have made a pretty speech, but I have been here long enough to know no good can

come of business investing in our inventions. You will always try to dictate the course of
development.” With that, he turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Julian to find the
administrator's office on his own.

At least the young man's pique put an end to any possibility of further acquaintance. Julian

knew that was just as well, even while he eyed Daniel's very fine buttocks as the young scientist
retreated.

Daniel strode away from the company man, as angry at himself as at the stranger. He had felt

a strong attraction the minute he gazed into those cool grey eyes, along with a sudden urge to run
his fingers through the wavy black hair. And then the man had actually reached out and touched
his face! It had felt so nice, so warm, that Daniel had been unable to move. His attraction had
certainly lessened once he knew the businessman's intentions.

But he was still conscious of Julian looking at his bottom as he left. Could the man be any

more obvious? He was going to get them both into trouble.

The crowds were beginning to thin, and Daniel wondered how many of the graduating

scientists had been hired by the military and by the major trading companies.

He checked in on Stephen to make sure the boy hadn't blown up the workroom or himself, but

everything appeared to be under control. The afternoon was wearing on and the professor was
expecting him.

The workshop where Daniel spent the majority of his time was located in a small stone

structure some distance from the main buildings.

“Almost suppertime, boy. Where have you been all day?” Dr. Hadley sounded peeved.
“Today is the graduation exhibition, remember, Dr. Hadley? I had to help the students with

their demonstrations,” he reminded the professor gently.

The old man looked confused for a moment. Despite his age and his occasional bouts of

forgetfulness, Dr. Hadley remained a brilliant man and Daniel felt privileged to act as his
assistant. He spent most of his time constructing complicated machinery under the close direction
of the professor. When not actively building their machine, he was looking over the professor's
shoulder, trying to follow along as Hadley performed the most intricate mathematical calculations
by hand. Only occasionally did the professor resort to the calculating engine which covered most
of one wall of the workshop.

Dr. Hadley brightened. “I've been working on the new equations, boy. Come and take a look.”
Daniel sat at the work table. They spent the next couple of hours modifying the calculations

they'd been working on for months.

Then Daniel rose and began reconnecting the India-rubber covered copper wiring trailing

from the spherical metallic generator to the archway, reconfiguring the input of the power supply.

A small brass globe spun in the center of the archway. Light gleamed from the copper spines

protruding around its circumference. Each spike was tipped with a highly magnetic alloy designed
to interact with the surrounding ferrous arch. A large dial clung to one side of the arch, numbers
in increments of five placed around the edges. A single long silver rod, like one hand of a
chronometer, pointed directly to the zero at the top of the dial.

They worked late into the night, supper forgotten, until at last Daniel stopped the old man.

“We need to get something to eat, Professor, and we need to rest.”

The old man looked weary but mutinous. “We're so close, boy. Only one more calculation and

we can do the second test.”

“First thing in the morning, sir, I promise. As tired as we are, we're bound to make a mistake

if we try it tonight. And then what will happen to poor little Oscar?” Daniel patted the top of the
cage which held the unfortunate field mouse. He had survived the first experiment two days
before and had grown quite fat from all the cheese and grain they had fed him as they readied for
the next test.

The professor grumbled, but finally acquiesced.
Weariness threatened to close his eyes, but Daniel's work was not quite done for the evening.

In his room, he retrieved the latest journal from his desk drawer and began making notations of
the day's work. This was another of his duties as the professor's assistant. Daniel had already
filled one thick journal and was well into the second.

He fell asleep with his head on the book and a half-eaten apple in his hand.
Waking early with a cramp in his neck, Daniel washed and then visited the Institute's dining

hall, crowded and noisy at this time of the morning. There were two days left in the term, and
soon the hall would echo with silence instead of laughter as most students returned home for the
summer break. Daniel would remain, as he always did, using the time to further his studies.

He smiled to himself. There were compensations for remaining on the grounds when only a

few other students and staff were present. He had the library to himself and the leisure to enjoy it.
He would also have more time to visit the stables, to share a meal and have conversations with his
friend regarding matters he could discuss with no one else. And—his grin widened—those
discussions often turned into something else. No, remaining on the Institute grounds when others
had gone home to their families was not so terrible.

He was back in the isolated workshop, jacket off and sleeves rolled up, when he heard a

carriage approach.

He paused in his preparations and asked the professor, “Dr. Hadley, did you invite anyone for

the test? I thought we were going wait to demonstrate the device.”

Dr. Hadley frowned. “No, no. I'm sure I didn't.”
Daniel went to the door to find Dr. Barrington there, along with the American businessman,

Julian Blake. Julian looked at Daniel in evident surprise.

“Ah, Sinclair, my boy, are you busy?” The Institute Director strode into the workshop. Julian

lingered a moment, his gaze meeting Daniel's. Daniel felt a little thrill of the same attraction that
had struck him the first time he had met those fine grey eyes, framed by long lashes the same
deep black as the thick, wavy hair. His face warmed a little and he looked away, resolutely trying
to ignore his own reaction.

“Yes, we are a bit.” Daniel answered the administrator. “Can I help you, sir?”
“Splendid, splendid.” Barrington wandered the room, Julian following him, attention caught

by all of the equipment.

Barrington introduced Julian to Dr. Hadley, emphasizing the fact that Julian's company was

interested in making a sizeable investment. “Professor, Mr. Blake is most interested in any new
inventions currently in progress and of course I thought of your splendid invention, your most
marvelous machine. Would you care to tell him a little about it, show him around your workshop
a bit?”

Daniel protested. “Sir, we wanted to be more prepared before showing it to anyone. Anyway,

I don't think Mr. Blake would be interested in an invention not yet ready.”

Julian smiled at him. “Not at all, Daniel. I assure you I am most interested. Please show me

around, will you?”

“I'll leave you to it, then. I have another appointment, but do stop by my office when you are

done here, Mr. Blake.” Barrington departed, leaving Julian to his tour.

The professor promptly sat at his work table again and proceeded to ignore the visitor in favor

of his calculations.

The young scientist stood with arms crossed, glaring.
Julian moved closer and said in a low voice, “You don't have to be so concerned. I am not

some sort of shark, only out to make a profit at the expense of the little people.”

Daniel bit his lower lip in uncertainty as he tried to decide how much to say. He noticed Julian

staring at his mouth and looked away, flustered.

Julian walked around the lab. The large, hollow metal sphere caught his eye. “A Van de

Graaff generator! How many megavolts do you produce?”

Impressed at the businessman's unexpected display of scientific knowledge, Daniel let his

natural enthusiasm come to the fore and began telling him about the equipment in the workroom.
Julian appeared fascinated by the small brass globe spinning at the center of the arch.

“But what does it do, Daniel? You haven't yet told me what this intriguing machine actually

does.”

Daniel smiled mysteriously, his eyes lighting with excitement. “You'll see. Be patient while

the professor completes his review of the final calculations.”

They walked to the research area and Daniel pointed out some of the more esoteric books and

papers, gathered with the assistance of other scientists from all over the world. Julian reached past
him and pulled out a book, his body pressing against Daniel's back for a moment, breath warm
against his neck.

Unable to hide his reaction, Daniel gave a small gasp and shivered. He didn't look at Julian

but felt the man's hand move slowly up the back of his shirt to rest against his neck. Trembling,
Daniel closed his eyes as the warm fingers gently stroked his nape.

“Daniel,” Julian moved closer, whispering, lips brushing against his ear. “Daniel, I...”

“Stop, please.” He looked anxiously toward the professor, who was still immersed in his

work. “It's not wise.”

Daniel forced himself to move away, back to the arch. Trying to find a distraction, he spoke to

the professor. “Are we ready for the next test, sir? The new connections have been created and the
gauges have been recalibrated according to the results from the calculating engine. Is there
anything else to be done?”

“Are the capacitors fully charged?”
“Yes, sir”
“Then we are ready.” The professor sounded excited.
Daniel sliced a small piece of cheese from the round on the table and picked up the cage

containing the mouse. Then he simply stood, staring at the mouse expectantly.

Julian, looking puzzled, started to ask for an explanation when suddenly the mouse vanished.

Julian's mouth fell open in astonishment and Daniel grinned.

Placing the cheese inside the cage, Daniel moved hastily to the archway and rested the cage

on the floor.

“Excellent, excellent,” the professor exclaimed. “It seems two of the same beings cannot exist

in the same time and space. Little Oscar disappeared, so we must have accomplished our
experiment.” Despite his excitement, Daniel couldn't help wondering how the professor could
remember the mouse's name but not that of his own assistant.

Almost immediately, Oscar reappeared under the archway, and spotting the cheese in the

cage, went straight in. Daniel closed the cage door and then looked at the large intricate timepiece
on the wall. “Three more minutes, Professor.”

They waited in silence. Daniel could see Julian was bursting with questions but didn't want to

interrupt their work.

The timepiece ticked off the remaining three minutes and Daniel retrieved the now somnolent

mouse from his cage and placed him under the archway. He then reached for the long silver rod
on the large dial set into the side of the arch, and using both hands, pulled it down until a loud
click indicated it was settled properly into position under the number five.

The brass globe immediately began to revolve. They stared in fascination as it picked up

speed, the small spines around its circumference becoming a blur. Finally a loud popping noise
echoed in the workshop and the capacitors discharged in a flash of light.

The mouse disappeared, only to immediately reappear in its cage.
Daniel exclaimed, “You did it, Professor. The new calculations are perfect—exactly five

minutes this time.”

“But so many questions still unanswered, boy. So much yet to learn. But progress, yes,

definitely progress.”

Julian looked amazed. “Five minutes ... you're saying five minutes... How did the mouse

appear before you sent him?” His eyes widened in disbelief. He stepped forward, his voice
slightly raised. “You're trying to tell me you actually sent the mouse back in time five minutes?”

Daniel was still smiling. Not even the thought of sharing these secrets with a company man

could keep him from savoring the triumph of a successful experiment. “A time machine—yes,
exactly. The professor's calculations are truly a breakthrough in mathematics and the rare
magnetic alloys used to tip the protrusions on the globe are a key element.”

“But... That's not possible. Our scientists have been trying for years...” Julian stopped

abruptly.

“You have company scientists who have been working on time travel? Why?”
“Purely for purposes of study—the same motivations you have. We are well aware changing

the past could have catastrophic effects on our present.”

Daniel was impressed with Julian's perceptive answer, but Dr. Hadley interjected, “Perhaps it

would, but we don't know it for a fact. There are so many questions still to be answered. For

example, where did the mouse go in the brief time when he was gone from the cage, but before he
appeared in the machine? Did he exist at all?”

“Or did he exist in some other dimension, a fifth dimension outside of our common

universe?” Daniel was full of speculation.

The professor continued. “As to whether the present could be changed by a traveler to the

past, how can we ever know for certain? Why, there has been a theory for years that there could
be other worlds similar to ours; a new one created each time a major decision is made, to exist in
parallel with ours.”

“And if true,” Daniel added, “then perhaps the mouse spent a brief moment in a parallel earth,

as it may not be possible for two of the same being to exist in the same world. And if a traveler
did go back in time to change events, our world might remain unaffected; instead, a new, parallel
earth could be created.”

Julian appeared pale. Daniel said, “Julian? You don't look well. Are you all right? Do you

want to sit?”

“Perhaps so.” Julian's voice sounded shaky as he moved to sit at the work table.
Daniel continued. “Sending a mouse back five minutes is a very long way from sending a man

back in time. It will be years before we are ready to do any tests with humans. You see that, don't
you?” His anxiety about the company taking over and trying to direct the research surfaced.

Julian turned to look at the archway with its small globe, quiescent now. Daniel couldn't tell

what he was thinking, but he did not seem as excited as it seemed he should have been upon
seeing such a major new invention. In fact, he almost seemed frightened.

Julian replied, “Yes, I understand. You're quite right. Much more research needs to be done.

And you were also correct, Daniel, to be wary of telling me about this invention. I should be very
careful of mentioning it to anyone else.”

The professor frowned. “Scientific discovery cannot be accomplished in the dark. How will

scientists collaborate if there are such secrets? How will we generate interest in scientific
education within the common man if we do not advertise our accomplishments? It is his interest
which allows us to obtain the funding for work to proceed.”

His aspect softened when he looked at Daniel. He said in a kindly tone, “You are young and

full of idealism, my boy, and that is proper. But reality will someday show that for all your
enthusiasm, you cannot accomplish your endeavors without the patronage of those who have an
interest, such as Mr. Blake here, and such as the lovely young couple of means whom I met
recently when at the tavern for dinner. It is their benefaction that truly allows serious work to be
accomplished.”

Daniel bit his lip, knowing any reply he might give would only wound the old man who had

taught him so much. He struggled not to say anything about ivory towers and the complete
disregard for the applications to which such scientific invention was subject once it left the realm
of theory and moved into the practical world.

Julian asked, “Professor, of what couple do you speak? Perhaps I should make their

acquaintance if we share similar interests.”

Dr. Hadley looked pleased, but admitted, “I confess I do not recall their names. But the

woman was very cultured and had the loveliest raven black hair. I told them to contact Dr.
Barrington to discover what assistance they could be to the Institute.”

“Then I shall ask him. Oh, and what is the name of the tavern where you met them?”
“The Inn of the Golden Lion. I always go there when I don't wish to have dinner in my

rooms.”

Julian stood to take his leave. “Thank you, sir. And thank you so much for this fascinating

opportunity to see your work. It is quite amazing.”

Daniel walked him to the door as the professor returned to studying his papers. Julian stopped

in the doorway and did not move until Daniel looked at him.

“Can I see you tonight?” Julian asked. “Dr. Barrington has invited me to stay in guest quarters

here on the Institute grounds. We could meet for dinner and some further discussion of the
experiment. I still have many questions.”

Daniel hesitated. He wanted very much to be with Julian and to feel those strong hands

stroking his skin once more. But if they were seen together, it would mean trouble for the
businessman. Despite his discretion, many at the Institute already knew where Daniel's
preferences lay and held him in contempt for it, as his family had done. It was best not to get
involved, especially as Julian would be leaving soon to return to New York.

At any rate, Daniel had his own friend to visit tonight. Perhaps a long talk and then something

more than talk would help him put this tall grey-eyed man out of his mind.

He looked down, not meeting Julian's bold gaze. “I think it best not to meet, sir. I will be

happy to answer your questions if you come back tomorrow, when the professor is here.” He
dared a quick look up. Julian appeared disappointed but departed quietly.

Daniel thought that attitudes must be more liberal in New York, for the man to be so forward.

Perhaps, he thought wistfully, I will journey there one day.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Two

Julian felt grateful for the long walk back to the administrative offices of the Institute. He was

not a violent man, so the sudden urge to find a lead pipe and smash the machine to bits had been
shocking in its intensity. These people were playing with fire. Although the scientists of his 1885
had not succeeded in creating a working time machine, at least they had some concept of time and
its intricacies. They knew parallel earths existed and how important it was to tread very lightly or
face far-reaching and possibly catastrophic consequences.

Even if he were to destroy the machine and all of the professor's papers, the knowledge would

still reside within the scientists, and harming the innocent red-haired young man was the last thing
he could envision. He had barely been able to hide the evidence of his arousal. The memory of
warm skin under his fingers sent a shiver through him and he felt a wave of desire.

Daniel had looked so young when he would not meet Julian's eyes. Julian sighed. It wasn't

only the age. It was the experience. Same-sex attraction, while not strictly forbidden by law, was
definitely frowned upon and its practitioners stigmatized in this timeline. Even if Daniel were
interested in trying such a relationship, it would only do harm to introduce him to such pleasure
and then leave him at the end of the mission.

He entered the administration building, intending to find a way to inquire about the couple of

means who had spoken to Hadley at his tavern.

As it happened, luck was with him. Barrington's secretary showed him into the Director's

office but the man had company. An attractive woman perched on the edge of a chintz-covered
chair. Her French-blue dress displayed her striking raven hair to great advantage.

Barrington rose from behind the massive oak desk to greet him. “Ah, Mr. Blake, splendid. We

were hoping you would stop by on your way back from your tour. May I introduce you to others
with a similar interest in scientific inquiry?”

A tall, slim blond man of military bearing stood and offered his hand to Julian. “Kenneth

Blanchard, Mr. Blake. Very pleased to meet a fellow scientific enthusiast.” Julian shook his hand.
“And this is my lovely wife, Theresa.”

Julian bowed over the woman's soft hand. “Lovely indeed. My pleasure, madam.”
She returned his smile. Barrington called for tea, and after all were served, Theresa Blanchard

inquired as to the nature of his tour. He told her a little of what he had seen, neglecting to mention
the time experiment he had witnessed.

“We met Professor Hadley at dinner at the Golden Lion, where we are staying. He was full of

interesting talk regarding a new invention, but seemed rather vague on the details. Did you
happen to see him today, or have the opportunity to visit his laboratory?”

Julian couldn't very well say no with Dr. Barrington present. But he took his time answering,

helping himself to more tea and taking a selection of the small sandwiches.

“Yes, Mrs. Blanchard, I did visit Dr. Hadley in his workshop. There are quite a few

fascinating mechanisms in the process of being completed but I confess I was unable to discern
their true purpose.”

“Fascinating, sir. I should like to see this workshop.” She turned her charming smile on Dr.

Barrington. “Do you think that would be possible, Director?”

“Of course, madam, of course. Tomorrow, if you are available?”
Julian felt a sudden uneasiness. There was something about the interest the Blanchards were

showing in the professor's work that did not ring true. Had mere coincidence led them to take
rooms at the same inn which the professor often frequented?

Barrington said, “Splendid, yes, we'll arrange it. Oh, and I must invite all of you to the dance

tomorrow night. Very good food, I daresay, and most enjoyable music. For the graduates, you
know, end of the year party.”

They all accepted, and then began a pleasant discussion of the latest in scientific

breakthroughs as they finished their tea. After confirming their tour for the following afternoon,
the Blanchards departed.

Julian hung back for a moment before following the couple. The large building which served

as a machine shop and garage for the steam-powered vehicles stood along the road to the stables,
but not so near the noise of the engines would spook the horses. The couple strolled past the
garage and continued toward the spacious, white-washed building housing the animals. They had
apparently arrived in a horse and carriage.

Julian ducked inside the machine shop to avoid being sighted on the off chance the two would

turn to look behind. At this time of day, the building was half empty of vehicles as many were in
use. Even so, the place buzzed with activity as students took apart engines, cleaned boilers, and
welded copper tubing. Buckets of water and bins of Franklin coal lined the walls. The students
gave him only cursory glances, being occupied with their tasks. He nodded at them politely as he
wandered to a steam-powered cycle.

Smiling, he ran a hand along the bars and thought of his own two-wheeled vehicle at home.

Still only used for weekend tinkering in his timeline, the vehicles seemed much more common
here. He bent to eye the water in the sight glass, and then held a hand near the boiler without
touching it. Still warm. The vehicles saw frequent use.

When he deemed sufficient time had passed for the Blanchards to retrieve their carriage and

be on their way back to the inn, he left the garage and made his way to the stables, slipping in by
a side door typically used only by the stable hands.

The large, dark-skinned stable master had allowed him to look over the well-kept building

when he first moved to the guest room on the Institute grounds and brought his horse in for
stabling. The master had proved a reticent fellow, but had been impressed with his little Astrid
when he had brought her in the previous day. “She's got some spirit, for a little thing, no?”

“She does, but she obeys well and is much stronger than she looks.” Julian had given the mare

a carrot from his pocket to help ease her anxieties about being stabled in a new place. Although
he'd only bought her a few days ago for convenient transportation around town, he'd quickly
grown fond of the little filly.

Hasim had seen his concern, for he smiled reassuringly. “Don't worry, Mr. Blake, we'll take

good care of your girl.”

“I'm sure of it,” he had replied.

Now the stable master had spotted him entering rather surreptitiously. “Mr. Blake? Is there

something we can help you with, sir?”

Julian decided to be forthright. “Hasim, you have caught me out. I was trying to avoid the

couple who came in a moment ago to take their carriage. Have you seen them?”

“Aye, the Blanchards. They are gone, and none too soon if you ask me.”
Julian looked at him in surprise. “Were they objectionable, then? They seemed rather pleasant

to me.”

“Not unpleasant, no. They took their carriage and went on their way. But their man... I did not

care for him.”

“Their man? I did not see anyone with them. What did he look like?”
Hasim shrugged his large shoulders. “A big man, tall with light hair. A surly fellow. He

stayed with the carriage and would not let my boys give the horses water. He insisted he do it
himself.” Hasim sounded annoyed through his thick accent. “Does he think my boys do not know
what they are doing?”

“You didn't happen to catch his name, did you?”
“No.” Hasim raised an eyebrow. “You are very curious about people you are trying to avoid,

sir.”

Julian hesitated. Hasim seemed like a good man. He had already provided valuable

information, and honesty might go further toward making him an ally than an obvious deception.
“I cannot go into details but I suspect those three are more interested in one of the experiments
than they should be. I thought it would not hurt to discover a little more about them.”

Hasim was frowning now. “Do you think they mean harm to the Institute? That cannot be

allowed.”

“I don't know, but I intend to find out.”
Julian took his time riding to the Golden Lion, wanting to be sure the couple had time to settle

into their rooms and become hungry for supper.

Making his way to the West End, he wandered along Piccadilly, noting more similarities than

differences with his own world. The clothiers sold similar fashions, and the milliners were
crowded with ladies in tight corsets and large feathered hats. The airships were busy overhead as
the larger zeppelins made their overseas flights to the great cities of Europe and the American
continents. Smaller dirigibles crowded the lower altitudes; perhaps personal vessels of the rich or
local transportation to Edinburgh or Dublin.

Finally deciding enough time had passed, he headed for the inn.
He entered the dining area boldly. If the couple were having supper, he would join them and

perhaps further conversation would prove enlightening. He looked around but they were not
present at any of the tables. Approaching the busy innkeeper, he inquired after the Blanchards.
The man peered through his pince-nez, checking his ledger, and agreed they were staying there,
along with their man, Farnsworth. But he thought he had seen them leave for the evening a half
hour earlier.

Julian feigned disappointment. “I have a note for them from my employer, the Lady

Marguerite. I shall slip it under the door, if you will tell me the room where they are staying?'

The innkeeper obliged. Julian made short work of the basic lock and was soon rifling through

the Blanchard's belongings. Clothing, perfume bottles, hairbrushes and ribbons all seemed
ordinary, as did the few books scattered on the small desk. He carefully replaced all items exactly
where he found them. He was about to leave when a large hatbox tucked under the bed caught his
eye.

He knelt and retrieved it, opening the lid only to stop and stare in astonishment. A small,

intricate mechanism lay nestled within the thick pink satin lining. He did not touch it, but bent
over to study it as closely as possible. It resembled nothing so much as a small, black metal
typewriter; as small as a telegraph machine but with tiny keys arranged alphabetically, the letters

painted in white. He spotted no roller, nor anywhere to insert carbon paper. Insulated copper
wires coiled around the machine with the ends exposed. Waiting to be connected to a power
source? More of a telegraph than a typewriter then.

Definitely some sort of communications device.
Definitely not from this timeline.
Julian closed the lid and replaced the box under the bed, then withdrew. Retrieving his horse

from the inn stables, he took his time returning to the Institute grounds.

Reluctantly, he considered the fact he could not keep an eye on the professor's work and

simultaneously follow the Blanchards.

Agents of the Department of Parallel Earth Investigations were trained to handle almost any

eventuality. And he was not simply an agent; he had been training agents for three years and had
lately been considering a position with even more responsibility. But an agent also knew when to
call for help, and this was one of those times. The implications of the time machine falling into
the wrong hands were simply too far-reaching.

Not wanting to wake the stable hands, he dismounted outside and led Astrid into the Institute

stables. Despite the lateness of the hour, lantern light illuminated the stalls and he had no trouble
finding the one to which Astrid had been assigned.

But he paused midstride, startled by the low voices and faint laughter coming from the hay

loft above him. Realizing he must have interrupted one of the stable hands in a tryst, he tried to
move as quietly as possible to the stall.

The low whispers stopped and Julian knew he had been detected. He heard a familiar voice

say, “No, it's all right. I know him.”

A red head popped up over the edge of the hay loft to grin down at him. Long, loose hair

cascaded over a bare white shoulder. “Good evening, Mr. Blake. You're in late.”

Julian could only stare, speechless in his surprise. Daniel sat up and reached for a shirt as

Hasim climbed down the ladder from the loft, massive chest bare, fastening his pants.

Julian found his voice. “Sorry ... so sorry ... didn't mean to interrupt...”
Hasim took the reins from Julian's numb fingers. “My Danny says you are a good man, Mr.

Blake. You will not get him into trouble over this?”

Julian blinked, still stunned, as his perception of Daniel as an innocent young man went up in

flames. “What? No. No, of course not.”

Daniel climbed down the ladder to stand next to Hasim, straightening his own clothes. “Julian

won't say anything to the administrators, Hasim. Don't worry.” He embraced the big man.

Hasim returned the hug and stroked Daniel's hair for a moment. “As you say, my friend. Sleep

well.”

And then Julian stood alone with Daniel, feeling as awkward as he ever had in his life.
He apologized again. “I am sorry to interrupt, Daniel. I didn't know you ... you two...” Hasim

had called Daniel „friend'; did that mean they were not serious? Julian's heart hammered in his
chest at the unexpectedly strong fear that the young man's heart already belonged to someone
else.

Daniel took pity on him. “You're heading back to your room? I'll walk with you.”
They walked without speaking until they came to a small stone bench illuminated by bright

moonlight and the nearby gas lights. Daniel sat, and Julian sat next to him.

“Daniel...” Julian started, “Is he ... do you...”
“Hasim is a good friend. Probably the only real friend I have in this place. We keep each other

company sometimes.”

“Oh.” Julian felt relief. Noticing the hay stalks caught throughout Daniel's loose hair, he

reached up and began absently plucking them out. “How did you meet him? He is from far away,
isn't he?”

“Yes, from the Moorish lands. They treated him badly there. I'm not sure why. He found his

way here a few years ago and was hired as a stable hand. He spoke very little English. I taught
him what I could of our language and our people and he taught me—other things.” Daniel grinned
again; that wide devilish grin that showed only rarely. Julian discovered he loved that grin and
wanted to make it appear as often as possible.

Julian used both hands to comb through the auburn hair. Daniel's eyes drifted closed. “He's

done well then, moving up to stable master. You helped him.”

“I suppose.” Daniel opened his eyes. He appeared puzzled. “It seems I was wrong about you.”

At Julian's enquiring look, he continued in a low voice. “I thought you wanted me. It appears I
was mistaken.”

Julian drew back in astonishment. “Why do you say that? I thought it quite obvious I want

you very much.”

“You are not resentful or angry I have been with someone else. In fact, you almost seem

glad.”

Julian relaxed, smiling. “I know it seems I should be jealous, but in truth I am much relieved.”
Daniel appeared puzzled again and then his eyes widened in sudden comprehension. “You

thought me some young innocent? You were afraid you were going to seduce me.” He started
laughing while Julian blushed furiously.

Daniel sobered quickly, apologizing. “Never mind. It was sweet of you to be so concerned. I

know I look younger than I am, but I have recently turned twenty-three. For that matter, Hasim is
not the only lover I have had.”

“Oh. You do look younger. Still, I am seven years older than you.”
“That's not so much.” Daniel stood. “I have an early day tomorrow. Time for bed.” At Julian's

hopeful look, Daniel added, “Alone.”

Julian sighed. “Just as well, I suppose. Hasim would be a hard act to follow.”
It was Daniel's turn to blush.
Early the next morning, Julian composed the message to send to HQ. It had to be very short

and to the point, as the stored energy in the communications device was sufficient for only a brief
burst of radio waves across the timelines.

He retrieved the silver pocket watch from his vest pocket, rubbing his thumb over the intricate

dragon engraved on the cover. He had carried the small machine in the field for nine years and the
etching was beginning to wear away. How much longer did he want to carry it?

Julian popped it open and pressed the center of the crystal. A small crackle sounded as the

tiny internal capacitor began to discharge. He didn't have much time. He pried off the watch
crystal and set it aside. When he pressed the pointed end of the larger hand, it clicked loudly. The
carrier wave that cut across the dimensions began emitting. He clicked the hands of the clock in a
complicated code, sending his message to ride on the carrier wave across the parallel timelines
until it reached its destination on the home earth.

There was no need to code the short message as urgent; it was automatically understood that if

an agent in the field called for help, it must be of utmost importance.

TIME MACHINE INVENTED NEED ORDERS SEND CASS

There would be no reply. The power required to send messages and personnel across all the

earths in between the home timeline and this one was enormous. He could not know how long it
would take the administrators back home to discuss the problem, come to a decision, find the
agent he had requested, brief her, and then send her to this timeline. He would simply have to do
his best until Cassandra arrived.

At least he knew where the Blanchards would be this afternoon. Julian could think of no

means by which to prevent them from visiting the workshop without completely losing the trust
he had gained from both the scientists and the administration of the Institute. But he could at least
give Daniel a warning.

Even though he had expected Daniel to answer the door when he knocked, he was still struck

momentarily speechless at the site of the young man smiling at him, his white sleeves rolled up
and stray hairs escaping from the ribbon.

Julian cleared his throat. “Good day, Daniel. I hope I'm not interrupting. Are you terribly

busy?”

“No. We are waiting for the capacitors to recharge. Can't do another test quite yet.”
“Perhaps you have time for lunch?”
Daniel hesitated. He moved forward to be sure the professor would not hear and said in a low

voice, “It will not do your reputation any good to be seen with me, Julian. There are some here
who know of my preference and others who suspect it.”

“Surely a benefactor and a young scientist having lunch together is not so untoward?”
“Then you will have to stop looking at me like that.”
“Like what?”
“As if you want to eat me alive.”
“But I do... Oh, all right then. I shall be more discreet, I promise. Now will you have lunch

with me?”

Daniel seemed a little exasperated with him. Then he smiled. “I know what we can do.” He

turned to ask over his shoulder, “Professor, I'm going to lunch. Do you need anything?”

“No. My man packed me quite a repast this morning. You go ahead, my boy.”
Daniel retrieved his jacket and they began walking together toward the dining hall. But

instead of entering, they went around the back to the kitchen.

“Wait here,” he told Julian, and disappeared inside. Several minutes passed before he re-

emerged carrying a basket.

Julian smiled. “A picnic? What a wonderful idea, and a lovely day for it. Where shall we go?”
“I know a place. A bit of a walk but it's still early.”
They walked quietly together for some time, going deeper into the grounds until they came to

an area of scattered woods. Daniel said, “I like it back here. It's peaceful. I used to come here a lot
but it doesn't seem as if I've had the time lately.”

He retrieved a thin cotton sheet from the basket and spread it on the ground under a large oak

tree. They removed their jackets and sat, not yet moving to unpack the basket.

Julian relaxed as he gazed around the woods. This far from the school buildings, only the

singing of birds and some faint rustling in the undergrowth disturbed the silence.

“This is beautiful. And private.” He tentatively draped an arm around the young man,

wondering if he would object. He felt ridiculously nervous, as if he were a schoolboy with his
first infatuation. When Daniel did not move away, Julian pulled him closer. Daniel closed his
eyes and leaned into him. Julian stroked his deep red hair gently and then slipped the ribbon loose
and pressed his face against the soft strands, breathing deeply. The faint scent of soap mixed with
Daniel's unique smell lit a fire deep in his belly. He brushed his lips up the young man's neck to
lightly nip his earlobe and felt Daniel shiver. He cupped the younger man's face, turning him so
they looked at each other. Daniel's eyes were wide and dark, his cheeks slightly flushed.

Julian brushed a thumb across the pretty mouth and Daniel's lips parted in response. Julian

couldn't wait any longer; he pressed his lips against Daniel's, softly at first and then more deeply
as he felt the young man respond. He slid his tongue in along Daniel's and heard a faint moan as
the long kiss became more passionate. Daniel's arms circled him tightly. Julian's stroked the red
hair, stroked Daniel's lovely chest and ran a thumb over his nipples through the thin linen shirt,
feeling him arch his back in response.

When they finally parted, both were flushed and breathing hard. Daniel stared at him, eyes

wide, for such a long time Julian began to think something was wrong. “Danny? What is it?”

Daniel pulled Julian close and murmured into his ear. “I've never had anyone kiss me like

that. Most men just want to ... you know ... not waste any time.”

Julian stroked his back. “Their loss. You're a great kisser.”
Daniel smiled and pulled away. “We'd better eat some of this lunch before it gets warm.”
They ate a simple meal of cheese and bread and apples in companionable silence. Then they

repacked the basket and reclined together, stretching out under the oak. Julian lay close but he
didn't touch Daniel. He wanted the other man to make the first move this time. He wanted to be
sure the attraction was mutual. Julian wasn't usually so aggressive about pursuit, but it seemed
whenever Daniel was near all the Department rules he had lived by for so long became
unimportant.

Daniel rolled onto his side facing Julian and propped his head on his hand, staring down into

Julian's face. “You're not like any businessman I've ever known.”

“Isn't that a good thing?”
“Yes, it is. Just strange, that's all.” He leaned forward and kissed Julian, a long sweet kiss that

left Julian wanting more. But Daniel said, “I have to get back soon. The professor will be
wondering where I am.”

Julian tried to hide his disappointment. “Will you be at the graduation dance tonight?

Barrington invited me.”

Daniel nodded and stood to tie his hair back again and pull on his jacket. Julian thought he

detected a note of warning in Daniel's voice as he said, “Be careful tonight. You don't want
people to get the wrong impression about you. It will hurt your business dealings in London, I
assure you.”

As they began the long walk back, Julian told him about his meeting in the Director's office

with the Blanchards. “They appear to be wealthy investors, and will be visiting your workshop
this afternoon.”

Daniel looked annoyed. “How are we to get any work done with all of these visitors sticking

their noses in our work?” He stared at Julian rather pointedly but Julian only grinned.

Then he stopped on the path and took Daniel's arm. “I know I don't have any right to ask you

this. But these two, these Blanchards—they strike me as odd. I have a bad feeling about them. I
am afraid they will take your invention before it is ready and try to use it for ill.”

“So different from you and your company, then?”
“Yes. Very different, I assure you. We will not try to change events that have already

happened. We do not interfere or make judgments. The consequences are too unknown.”

Daniel appeared suspicious. “It is a very odd sort of company you work for.”
Julian sighed in frustration. “I am sorry I'm being so cryptic. I can only ask you to trust me

when I say you should tell these Blanchards as little as possible. And please, Danny, please—do
not give them a demonstration if you can avoid it.”

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Three

Daniel felt confused and more than a little angry when he returned to the workshop. Every

time he relaxed and gave in to the strong attraction he felt for Julian, the man said something to
put him off again.

What gave him the right to tell Daniel what he should or shouldn't say to anyone? Especially

when the others were investors like the businessman. It seemed positively hypocritical. Or
perhaps he was using Daniel to get closer to the invention? The thought sent a little jolt of dismay
through his chest.

Daniel took a deep breath. He was beginning to care too much about a man who was only

here for a brief time; a man who probably just wanted to use him for a while and then return home
to his family. He wouldn't be the first, thought Daniel bitterly.

Before long, he heard the expected carriage pull up outside. At least the visit had not taken

him by surprise. He had Julian to thank for that much.

Dr. Barrington entered and introduced the Blanchards to the scientists. Professor Hadley

seemed pleased to meet the enchanting Theresa once again.

The Institute director stayed with the investors this time, no doubt to enjoy Theresa's

company, and because she could not be expected to walk back to his office afterwards, as Julian
had done.

The couple toured the workshop. The professor seemed only too happy to tell them everything

about the machine. Daniel gritted his teeth. Even without Julian's warning, his natural inclination
had always been to tell non-scientists as little as possible about their work. But he had no choice
in the matter, as they disregarded him in favor of the professor's instruction.

At least until Theresa asked for a demonstration. Then Daniel told them truthfully that there

could be no test today. The experiment took a huge amount of energy and the capacitors were not
yet fully recharged.

Theresa pouted and turned her emerald gaze on Daniel. She stood a little closer to him than

strictly necessary. “You're the professor's assistant, are you not, Daniel?” She smiled and reached
out to stroke his arm. “Surely there is enough power to give a small demonstration of this
wondrous machine?”

Daniel stepped back slightly. “I'm sorry. It simply cannot be done today.”
For an instant, he thought he saw anger flash in her eyes; anger out of proportion to the simple

disappointment the denial of such a request should have engendered.

But she quickly had her expression under control. “Well, then perhaps you can tell us a few of

the details of the earlier tests?” She looked at him expectantly. He found himself reluctant to
impart those details. But when he didn't answer, the professor once again interjected, telling them
about the test the previous day.

When Hadley mentioned Julian Blake had been present, James Blanchard looked up sharply.

He had said very little up to this point, but now he asked, “Mr. Blake was here during the test?
Are you certain? He did not mention anything of the sort when he had tea with us. It seems he
should have been most excited to talk about it.”

“He was here, I assure you, sir. Perhaps it simply slipped his mind,” the professor replied.
The Blanchards looked doubtful, but did not say anything else.
When they finally departed, Daniel breathed a sigh of relief. He might not completely trust

Julian Blake, but he trusted the Blanchards not at all. He had no specific reason, and perhaps he
was being unfair. They were really no different than the other business and military
representatives who displayed an interest in the research.

He took his leave of the professor and returned to his rooms to add the day's brief entry to his

journal. Then he bathed, carefully washing the long hair of which Julian appeared so fond and
tying it back with a dark green ribbon. Dressing in his best formal output as befitted the evening,
he carefully did up the buttons of his waistcoat and pulled on the formal frock coat he wore only
this one time of the year.

Straightening his cuffs, he couldn't help smiling ruefully at his own careful preparations. But

there was no denying his anticipation at seeing Julian again. Something about the man's touch
sent warmth straight through him, and when he looked into those fine grey eyes, Julian's
employment in a trading company no longer mattered at all. And that kiss! He very much wanted
another of those deep, lingering kisses.

The ballroom shone brightly with the newest in electric lighting. The string quartet played a

minuet, although few people danced this early in the evening. The room was beginning to fill with
graduates and their families. Daniel had helped tutor many of the students graduating today, and
he nodded and spoke briefly to each as he congratulated them. They nodded back politely, but he
had never become close to any of them.

A lavish buffet stretched along one side of the massive room. Wine flowed freely. Daniel

allowed a liveried servant to hand him a glass, and he sipped it as he wandered about, not
admitting to himself that he actually searched for Julian. But when Daniel finally spotted him, the
businessman appeared deeply involved in conversation with Dr. Barrington and the Blanchards,
and he started to withdraw. He did not want to be in the middle of that conversation, and he could
always catch Julian later.

He wasn't quick enough. The Director spotted him before he could escape and motioned him

over. Julian's eyes lit up when he saw Daniel, although he quickly hid it; hopefully before anyone
else noticed. Daniel felt exasperated at the man's inability to hide his feelings, and yet flattered at
the same time.

As he neared the group, Theresa gave him her most charming smile. “Daniel, good to see you

again. We were discussing your professor's marvelous invention. We were hoping to talk to Dr.
Hadley. Have you seen him?”

“No, madam. I know he always enjoys the graduation dance, so I'm sure he'll be along. But it

is still early, and I recall that in previous years the professor has attended later in the evening.”

They chatted politely for several more minutes until Julian took his leave and headed for the

buffet. Daniel waited a few moments, and then also bade the group good evening. He went to the
buffet, selected some fruit and cheese, and joined Julian, already seated at a quiet table in the far
corner of the patio.

Julian looked up with a teasing smile and asked in a low voice, “You're sure you want to sit

with me? What if someone sees us?”

Daniel snorted. “It's probably too late to worry about that. You're still looking at me like a cat

staring at a mouse.”

“Oh. Sorry. I don't usually show all my emotions.” He leaned forward and said quietly, “But

since we first met, I've wanted to be close to you. I tell myself it's not wise, like you said, but...”
His voice trailed off and he looked down at his plate.

“It's all right, Julian, I know what you mean. I tell myself you will leave me to go back to

New York so I should not get involved. And yet, here I am.”

Julian smiled at him happily and said, “Yes, here you are.” But he didn't deny the fact he

would leave. Daniel bit his lip and then resolved to simply enjoy what he could, while he could.
He noticed Julian staring at his mouth again and couldn't help smiling. They picked at their food
for a while, and then Julian went for more wine, bringing them each back a glass.

“Oh, that's a classic. You think you can get me drunk so easily, and then I'll do whatever you

want?” Daniel asked, eyebrows raised.

“I don't know. Will it work?”
Darkness had fallen while they ate and flirted. Their small corner of the patio was hidden in

shadow. Music drifted on the night air—a slow waltz. Couples danced inside the ballroom.

Julian reached for Daniel's hand where it rested on the table, stroking the back of it and then

turning it over to stroke the tender inside of the wrist. Daniel couldn't help his quick intake of
breath as the gentle warmth of those fingers sent a surge of warmth along his skin and straight to
his groin.

“Oh,” he murmured, “Julian...”
“Dance with me. Here, in the corner. No one will see. Please.”
Daniel frowned at him. “Dance? Do you think I'm a girl? Men don't dance with each other.”
“You're pretty enough. But no, obviously I know you're not a girl, or I wouldn't be interested

in you, would I? And where I come from, men who care about each other do dance together
sometimes, just to be close.” Julian stood up, holding out his hand.

Daniel looked at the hand doubtfully, then shrugged and took it, standing up. He had warned

the man several times now and if he refused to listen, he must take the consequences when his

reputation suffered. “I had not thought New York to be so very different than London, that men
can be seen to dance with each other in public.”

They moved together into deeper shadow and Julian put his arms around Daniel. Daniel

leaned against him, feeling that tall, hard body pressed against his. They moved together, not
really dancing, just swaying in time to the music. Daniel gradually relaxed, his head resting on
Julian's shoulder as Julian reached up to pull the ribbon out of his hair. He stroked gently, running
his fingers through the thick, smooth strands.

Daniel let the music move through him and thought how nice it felt to hold someone so close.

Especially when Julian began to give him little kisses, starting with the sensitive spot under his
ear, and then working his way around Daniel's neck to the hollow of his throat. Daniel couldn't
stop the little moan that escaped him, or the shiver that went straight down his spine. “Oh,” he
gasped quietly. “Oh ... my...”

“Mmm ... you like that, my dear?”
Almost incoherent, Daniel arched his neck to expose more of his throat to those sweet kisses.

“Oh ... Julian...”

Julian continued to let his lips and tongue wander over Daniel's neck and then planted little

kisses all over his face, finally making his way back to press his firm, sculpted lips against
Daniel's. His breathing came faster as Julian took his mouth, kissing him deeply and letting their
tongues slide together. The kiss started gently but grew in passion until Daniel gasped for air, his
whole body on fire.

Julian drew back a little. “You're shaking, my darling. Is everything all right?”
The concern and the endearments made Daniel melt inside. He pushed his face into Julian's

shoulder. Who was this man? He was like no one Daniel had ever met. If he could turn Daniel to
jelly with a kiss, what would he be like in bed? Daniel very much wanted to find out.

“Now here is a surprise.” Theresa Blanchard sounded rather annoyed. Startled, Daniel jerked

back to gape at her. “The professor's faithful assistant. Perhaps this is why you were being so
uncooperative during our visit, Daniel? Mr. Blake has told you we were not to be trusted?” She
moved closer, looking back and forth between the two. “And you think he is? You know he is not
from this place. He will be returning to his home soon, so what do you think he wants from you?”

“I know what he wants,” said Daniel, his voice harsher than he had intended. “And if I am

willing to give it to him, what business is it of yours?”

Julian looked shocked. “Daniel, you don't think that's all...”
Theresa interrupted him. “That's not what I'm talking about, and you know it. What do you

think he will do with this marvelous new machine once he has seduced all the secrets of its
invention from you?”

Daniel stepped away from Julian, staring at her and then at Julian. “Julian ... is this true? You

really are only interested in the machine?”

Julian answered, “I think I've made it quite clear how I feel about you. Believe me; if all I

wanted was the machine, with no regard for anything else, I am perfectly capable of taking it.
No,” he continued, “better to ask Mrs. Blanchard what her interest is, for she is not from this
place either.” He stepped toward her. “Tell me, what would you do with the device if you had it?”

Daniel stood frozen, staring between the two of them and feeling there was much more going

on than he understood; levels of context within the conversation beyond his current
understanding.

Theresa said, “I would use it to save lives. Thousands of lives that are being lost for no good

reason. I would save them. Is that so terrible an ambition?”

“You would change the past. That cannot be allowed. You do not know the consequences.”
“Who do you think you are, to make judgments from on high that the rest of us have to live

with every day?”

“I might ask who you are, Mrs. Blanchard, and where you are from?”

She ignored his question and turned to look at Daniel, who had been backing away, intending

to make his escape as soon as possible. He didn't understand the conversation, but felt it should
not involve him. Especially when his mind was already clouded with wine.

“Daniel,” Theresa said, “if you had the chance to do a great deal of good with this time

machine you and the professor have invented, would you not take that opportunity?”

Daniel continued to back away. “I don't know you, madam.” He looked at Julian. “I don't

know either of you.” He turned and fled.

Julian could not imagine what Daniel was thinking, hearing that conversation and not

understanding half of it. No wonder he was so suspicious.

He had wanted to question Theresa Blanchard further, but as soon as Daniel left, she had

turned on her heel and rejoined the crowds inside the ballroom, leaving Julian alone and
frustrated. It was obvious she knew he was not from this timeline, as she was not. How did she
know so much? How had she gotten here?

The woman wanted the same thing she had claimed for Julian; Daniel's cooperation in using

the machine for her own purposes. And if she could not obtain his cooperation voluntarily? To
what lengths would she go?

Worried now, and distressed over Daniel's distrust of him, Julian began walking toward

Daniel's room. He wanted to be sure Daniel had made it safely to his quarters. But when he had
almost reached the building, he came to the bench where they had stopped the previous night;
where Julian had combed the hay out of Daniel's hair. The thought made him smile, as did the
sight of Daniel sitting on that bench now.

Julian sat next to him.
After a moment, Daniel said, “Could you really take it? If you wanted to, I mean.”
“Anyone could. It's not like you have guards posted.”
“There are guards. You've seen them at the gates and patrolling the grounds.”
Julian just looked at him.
Daniel grimaced. “Oh, all right. I guess they are not so formidable.”
“There is no doubt now that Mrs. Blanchard is here for the time machine. To what use she

would put it, I don't know. But I'm sure it would be easier for her if she had your cooperation, or
the professor's. I know you are suspicious I want the same thing, but it's not true. Not exactly. I
have told you before—the machine scares me. Frankly, if it were up to me, I would take a
crowbar to the whole thing.”

“The professor has poured years into that research. It's his life's work! You mustn't even think

about destroying it.”

Julian didn't reply, just looked grim.
Daniel took a deep breath. “You said ... if it were up to you ... but it's not. And you're no

businessman, Julian Blake. Who are you? Some sort of government agent? An American spy?”

“Something like that,” Julian prevaricated. “I work for a Department in the government that

keeps track of new inventions. We want to make sure they do not fall into the hands of those who
would not use them wisely.”

“Military,” Daniel said angrily. “Even worse than business.”
“No, not military, I promise. We do not make war.”
Daniel snorted in disbelief.
Julian said gently, “Tell me, Daniel.”
“Tell you what?”
“Tell me what happened to make you so angry—so mistrustful. Even before Theresa

Blanchard's comments tonight, you were suspicious of me. Did you really think I was only
interested in you because of your knowledge of the time machine? Or perhaps just because you
are beautiful?”

Daniel didn't reply; he only stared down at the ground. Julian hesitantly placed an arm around

Daniel's shoulders. When the young man did not move away, Julian pulled him close and
murmured into his ear, “Who was he? Tell me.”

Daniel released a long, shaky breath. “Oh, Julian, I...” He stopped. “Have I been taking it out

on you?”

Daniel leaned into him and murmured into his neck. “There was someone. Another student.

He was smart and funny, and handsome, and I loved him. I thought he loved me. We were
together for two years and I thought we would be together forever here at the Institute. A college
is the best place for us, you know. They are more liberal here, more willing to overlook our ...
flaws ... if we are smart and creative and good teachers. I like it here, and I thought he did. But
when he graduated, he said...” Daniel swallowed hard. Julian's arm tightened around him. “He
said he was going to work for the Edinburgh Trading Company. They started him out at a high
salary and gave him his own laboratory. He couldn't say no. And he said it was time for him to
grow up and behave like an adult. Time to marry the girl his parents had chosen for him.”

Daniel looked at Julian a little wildly. “Time to grow up. That's what he said, as if what we

had was only a childhood crush. As if we were playing, for two years.”

Julian felt an aching sadness for the young man's broken heart. He gave what comfort he

could as he stroked Daniel's back and ran soothing fingers through his hair. “I'm so sorry, my
dear.”

Daniel buried his face in Julian's neck again. “I was helping him pass the time, that's all. Just

something to amuse himself with until he graduated... I was such an idiot...”

“He was the idiot, not to see what he had. But fortunate for me, wasn't it? I was so afraid

when we first met that your heart would already belong to another. I thought, how could someone
not already have claimed him?”

Daniel smiled at him, suspicions seeming temporarily forgotten. “Do you really think I'm

beautiful?”

“Oh yes,” Julian breathed. “Very beautiful.” His heart hammered as he realized he hadn't

totally lost his chance with this lovely, intelligent young man. He cupped Daniel's face and pulled
him in for a kiss. Daniel responded, returning the kiss with passion. “Please come to my room. Or
yours? Please.” Julian was ready to beg, the kiss had lit such a fire deep within him he thought he
would barely be able to walk.

“Yours will be more private.”
Julian jumped up and grabbed Daniel's hand, tugging him up from the bench.
They reached Julian's quarters and took a quick look around but there was no one to see them

enter his room together. Most residents and visitors were still at the party. Julian opened his door,
pulled Daniel inside and then pushed him hard against the wall, slamming the door shut. He
covered Daniel's mouth with his and began tugging at his clothes, hands shaking in his haste.

“What's the hurry?” Daniel asked, laughing at Julian as he fumbled with the stubborn silk-

covered buttons of Daniel's waistcoat.

“Don't be a tease. You know how I've wanted you since we first met.” Then Julian stopped

abruptly as he remembered Daniel's comment: 'I know what he wants...' in that harsh tone.

“What's wrong, Julian?”
Julian rested his hands on each side of Daniel's face and ran his thumbs along his cheekbones.

Daniel smiled and pressed his face into Julian's hands. Julian thought about reassuring him;
saying something that would let him know he would be wanted for more than one night. But in all
honesty, Julian did not have those reassurances to give.

Instead he whispered, “My darling,” and pulled him to the bed, trying to show him with his

actions what he could not promise in words. He wanted nothing more than to push Daniel to the
bed and take him quickly, but he forced himself to slow down, removing their clothing slowly
and stroking Daniel's now bare chest and stomach. Muscles firmed by the hard work of building

machinery in the professor's laboratory played under smooth skin covered by a light dusting of
copper hair. Daniel lay on the bed and Julian knelt next to him, running his hands over the man's
nude form.

“Oh, Daniel,” he whispered. “You are even more lovely than I had thought possible.”
Daniel gave him the shy smile that had misled Julian into thinking him an innocent. Julian

now realized it only reflected the young man's natural modesty and pleasure any time he received
a complement. He wondered if the boyfriend of two years had ever told Daniel how beautiful he
was. He suspected not.

Daniel tugged on his arm, pulling him on top and wrapping his arms around Julian tightly.

They kissed again; bodies stretched full length, hips beginning to thrust as their urgency built.
Julian reached down and took Daniel's cock in his hand, stroking it. Feeling the young man
squirm and push under him was more than he could take. He moaned, and felt Daniel's hands
moving almost frantically over his back, stroking him and trying to pull him closer.

Julian slid down Daniel's body to engulf that lovely cock in his mouth and stroke those perfect

balls with his hand. He continued to work his mouth on the smooth, thick cock, licking and
sucking until he heard an almost constant moan from Daniel. Julian's finger moved further back
to stroke the crease and then penetrated that secret place as Daniel's legs spread wide to give him
greater access.

“Oh yes, but I'm not going to last if you keep doing that, and I do so want you inside of me.”
With that invitation, Julian reached for the small bottle of massage oil on the little table by the

bed. He coated his fingers and pressed one deep inside Daniel, then followed it with a second,
pressing past the firm ring of muscle and feeling it give as Daniel opened for him.

“More,” Daniel murmured, hips thrusting down onto Julian's fingers. Julian smiled and added

a third finger, then reached deep inside to find the little gland. He stroked it gently with his
fingers and Daniel practically shot off the bed.

“Oh! Oh, please, I can't wait any more.”
Julian withdrew his fingers as Daniel whimpered in protest at the loss. Using his coated

fingers to lubricate his own cock, he then spread Daniel's legs wide, holding them up behind the
knees. Staring down at the sweet ass, open and waiting for him, he thought he would burst
without ever penetrating the young man.

Poised to enter, he looked up at Daniel, pausing for a moment to take in his lovely face, the

hazel eyes darkened and the cheeks flushed with passion. Then Julian thrust smoothly and deeply,
burying himself to the root. He held still for one long moment to allow Daniel time to adjust to
the sensations.

“Move,” Daniel demanded again, thrusting upward. “Move, Julian.”
Julian raised his eyebrows in amusement. It hadn't taken long for his young lover to become

impatient. He hooked one arm under Daniel's knee to brace them as he began a slow, steady
rhythm. He tangled his fingers into Daniel's long hair as he leaned forward to kiss him, moaning
into Daniel's mouth as he thrust deeply into the tight, warm channel.

“Gorgeous,” he whispered into Daniel's mouth. “Oh, you have a gorgeous ass.” Daniel's

mouth was open and panting. “And a gorgeous mouth.” Julian licked those full, plump lips and
began another long kiss as he increased the pace, thrusting more vigorously. He reached one hand
down to grip Daniel's cock and began stroking it in time with his thrusts.

Daniel gripped his shoulders, the fingers digging into his skin with a force that would surely

leave some interesting bruises. Julian smiled at the thought. The youth was surprisingly strong
considering the slenderness of his build.

Daniel pulled his mouth away from Julian's and let his head fall to the pillow and his back

arch. Julian held their bodies together as tightly as he could—so tightly he could barely keep his
grip on Daniel's slick, burning shaft. He closed his eyes and buried his face against Daniel's neck,
feeling the rapid, strong heartbeat pulsing against his cheek.

As he breathed in the scent of sweat and Daniel, he realized he had made a terrible mistake if

he had ever thought he would be able to walk away from this beautiful, passionate youth.

Raising his head, he sought Daniel's lips again as he shifted, trying to find exactly the right

angle. A louder, almost desperate moan from Daniel let him know he had found the sweet spot.
Julian thrust with increasing urgency.

Suddenly, Daniel cried out into his mouth, moaning Julian's name, and Julian felt the warm

spill of fluid over his hand. Daniel's muscles clamped down as he came and the tight contraction
pushed Julian over the edge. He left his mouth on Daniel's, kissing him and moaning into his
mouth throughout the intense orgasm, feeling as if his heart would burst; not only from the
physical sensations, but from the unnamed emotion that welled so strongly within his chest as he
stared into Daniel's wide, shining eyes. He feels it too, Julian thought, to look like that. He must.

Julian withdrew and collapsed next to Daniel, reaching for him and hoping he liked to be held

close. He seemed like he would, but you never really knew until afterwards. Daniel pressed his
face into Julian's neck and nuzzled, kissing his throat sleepily.

Julian closed his eyes, feeling the warm lips against his skin and the soft, languorous stroking

of Daniel's hands as they wandered over his back. He's perfect. What am I going to do? He's just
perfect.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Four

Julian woke shortly after dawn with Daniel's back warm and tight against his chest as Julian

spooned him. Julian murmured into his hair and started to stroke his smooth chest, when he
realized they were not alone in the room.

“Well, isn't this sweet.”
Julian sat up quickly, then relaxed when he recognized the lovely blonde woman seated

comfortably in the small armchair, her hand resting on the handle of her parasol as she stared at
him with huge blue eyes. “Cassandra.”

Daniel sat up and pushed back against the headboard, half-asleep and panicky. “Julian? What

... who is this?”

Julian's arms went around him, his voice soothing as he said, “It's all right, Daniel. She's a

friend.”

Daniel's eyes narrowed. “A friend? Why is she in your room?”
Julian's mouth fell open and then he had to hide the ridiculous smile that threatened to break

out when he realized Daniel was actually jealous. He didn't think he should feel so pleased, but he
did.

Cassandra ignored the youth, looking at Julian. “I must say I'm a bit surprised at you, Jules—

always such a stickler for the rules, and here you are breaking at least a half a dozen.”

“I know, Cassie. Can we talk about this later, please?”
He turned to Daniel. “Daniel, this is Cassandra Smyth. She works with me. I asked her to

come. I thought it might be useful to have someone else help keep an eye on the Blanchards.”

Cassandra added, “Quite urgent, I believe your message said. I even took the new ...method of

travel...” Julian knew she meant the Parallel Gate in New York. “...and I did not enjoy it.”
Cassandra looked down her pert nose at them. “But I must say, none of this looks terribly urgent
to me, if you have time for this sort of shenanigans.”

“I'm glad to see you too, Cassie. Now, if you don't mind, there is coffee and tea in the dining

room downstairs. Can you wait there so we can get dressed?”

“Nothing I haven't seen before.” She made no effort to leave. Julian waited, raising his

eyebrows. “Oh, piffle. As you wish.”

She stood and looked Daniel over. “He is a pretty thing, at least. I just hope you didn't use

Department funds.” She grinned a sudden wide grin and swept out the door, leaving Daniel
gasping in outrage while Julian tried to reassure him she was joking, even as he did his best to
hold back his laughter.

After dressing, Julian stopped Daniel before he opened the door and put his arms around the

younger man. Daniel stared down at the floor, not moving. “Danny, look at me.”

Daniel looked up a little reluctantly.
Julian said, “My dear, I don't know what the future holds. I don't want to make promises I

can't keep, but I do know I am going to do everything I can to be with you again.” He paused for
a moment. “If that's what you want. You haven't actually said... Do you want to see me again?”

A smile lit Daniel's face like the sun coming out. “Oh yes. I do. I've never met anyone like

you.”

“Good.” Julian pulled him close and gave him another one of those long, searing kisses that

always left Daniel looking a little dazed.

Downstairs, Daniel swept past Cassandra, frowning at her on his way out. Julian chuckled as

he sat down at her table, pouring himself a cup of coffee from the elegant blue-flowered china set.
The small guest dining room was almost deserted. Most revelers were either still in bed, or, if the
families had come to fetch their young students home for the summer break, they were already on
the road.

“You look like the cat that ate the canary. Who is he?”
“Daniel Sinclair. He is the assistant to Dr. Hadley, the professor who invented the machine.”
“How fortuitous. A lovely assistant who is just your type. Does it really help to sleep with

your informants?” Cassandra sounded angry, as if Daniel needed defending from the big bad
wolf.

Julian glared at her. “It's not like that. I met him before I even knew he worked as the

professor's assistant. And yes, I know I shouldn't be involved, but...” Julian looked down at his
coffee and said in a low voice, “But whenever he is around, all the rules go right out the window.
Nothing else matters.” He didn't dare look up. He felt certain Cassie would be laughing at him.

Cassandra didn't say anything. Finally he looked at her. She was examining him closely, and

he felt himself flush a little under her scrutiny. Then she said, “You really like him, don't you?
I've never heard you talk like this.”

“I do, Cassie. And I don't know what to do about it.” Julian sounded almost desperate.
“I don't either. There's nothing in the Department policy manual that can help, as far as I

know.” She changed the subject. “Now tell me what's going on. What do you need me to do?”

After looking around to be sure no one would see him sneaking a woman into his room—if

anybody was watching, they would certainly be confused by all the comings and goings—he and
Cassandra settled into the privacy of his quarters and he proceeded to brief her on all that had
happened since he had arrived in this alternate 1885.

“But it's amazing,” Cassandra exclaimed. “A working time machine. How have they done it?”
Julian shook his head. “The calculations are beyond me. I think Dr. Hadley, and possibly

Daniel, are the only ones who understand how it works. That's why I want to keep an eye on
them, and why I need you to get close to the Blanchards and find who they are and what they
want.”

Cassandra stood and paced around the small room. “When we received your message at HQ,

everyone thought there must be some misunderstanding and perhaps the message did not convey
what you really meant to say. What if it were true, and there really was a working time machine?
I would have been here even sooner, but you said in your message that you wanted orders. The
debate seemed endless.”

“So you do have orders?”

“Yes.” She sat down again. “As you know, once a thing is invented it cannot be un-invented.

It will appear again somewhere across the timelines. So there is no point in destroying the
invention in the here and now. What we need is the information. We need to know how it was
created if we are to effectively combat those who would misuse it.”

Julian felt relieved. “Good, as I expected. I feared they were going to want it destroyed, and

that would have been all right with me—the thing scares me—but what about Daniel and Dr.
Hadley?”

“They've never given orders to harm someone like that. Not innocent civilians.”
“I know, but this invention is so momentous, I thought the paper pushers at HQ might become

too fearful to think rationally. It wouldn't be the first time they've made a decision I disagreed
with.”

Cassandra was laughing.
“What's so funny?” he asked, already suspecting the answer.
“You, Julian. What are you doing here, anyway? You're not a field agent anymore. You've

been in charge of the trainees for the last few years and now I hear you're up for another
promotion. Soon, you're going to be one of those paper pushers.”

Julian grimaced. “I know, I know. But I needed one more field mission to decide whether a

desk job is what I really want.”

Cassandra sobered. “I know it doesn't seem glamorous, but remember, those paper pushers are

the ones who make all the decisions that affect us field agents. Decisions that affect people like
your Daniel. It's an important job and you could do a lot of good there.”

“I suppose.” Julian remained unconvinced.
“Well, I'm off to the Golden Lion.” Cassandra stood. “I have a carriage with my steamer trunk

waiting in the stables. I'll get a room and conveniently run into the Blanchards. It's one of the
better inns, is it not? Perhaps they will be open to an invitation to bridge or some other game in
the parlor. I'll be in touch.”

Well, she was very pretty, with blonde hair falling in little ringlets down her back and those

big blue eyes, Daniel thought to himself. And certainly very bold, entering Julian's room as if she
belonged there. Just friends, the man had said, and Daniel couldn't help thinking of his own
“friendship” with Hasim, the stable master. He resolved to ask Julian if she were the same sort of
friend the first chance he got.

And then he stopped, right in the middle of the path on the way back to his room. When had

he become so possessive? It was a rather disturbing turn of events. Julian wasn't even interested in
women; or so he'd said. But Daniel had known a few men who'd said the same thing, and then
turned right around to go back to their wives and children.

He spent the morning in quiet study time, enjoying the peace of the library with no other

students whispering to each other at the oak tables. After lunch, he judged the professor would be
up and about after what was no doubt a late night for him. Daniel walked to the workshop to see
what assistance he could render for the afternoon.

Dr. Hadley had made some new calculations which required rewiring some of the connections

to the generator. Supposedly this would give them the capability to go further back in time than
five minutes. Daniel moved more slowly than usual, following the professor's direction but
thinking of the debate he had heard the previous night. He had always agreed in principle with
Julian's position—any interference in the past was too dangerous to contemplate. But if thousands
of lives could really be saved... Perhaps things were not as clear-cut as he had always thought.

“Boy! Are you listening to me?”
Daniel was startled out of his reverie by the professor.
“I said, it's well past suppertime and I'm starved. But I don't want to stop at this point. Do you

want to fetch us something from the kitchen?”

Daniel stepped outside, surprised to see evening had already fallen. He paused for a moment

in the doorway as he listened to the first sounds of the night. Insects and frogs stirred and began
their chirping and croaking. The light breeze cooled his skin. He took his time on the long walk to
the kitchen, but increased his pace on the way back. The smell of the chicken pies he had gotten
from the cook made his belly rumble in anticipation.

He slowed as he reached the front porch of the small building. The door stood ajar. Surely he

hadn't left it that way. Concerned for the professor, he hurried inside. The old man was not in the
best of health. “Professor? Is everything all right? Why is the door—”

He barely saw the tall, dark figure that stepped out of the shadows and grabbed his arm.

Before he could say anything, the man had shoved him further into the building, slamming the
door closed. Daniel tried to shove back, to get past him and out the door, but the man drew back a
fist and struck him hard across the face. Pain lanced through his head and he found himself
suddenly on the floor, all of the strength gone from his limbs.

Vaguely, he heard a deep voice saying “...hurt him, you idiot! We need him now. You're

supposed to question them, not kill them.”

Fear lanced through Daniel as he thought of these ruffians questioning the old professor. He

had already experienced their methods. Struggling to regain his strength, he tried to open his eyes
but his body was not yet cooperating.

The taller man who had hit him answered, “How was I supposed to know the old man was in

such poor health? Hell, I barely looked at him when his heart gave out—that's not my fault.”

“Bag the device, and any papers you can find. Maybe we can still salvage enough to recreate

the machine.”

Through a haze of shock and dizziness, Daniel wondered if he had correctly understood what

they were saying about Dr. Hadley. Was the old man dead? Or unconscious and in need of
medical attention? He might be all right if Daniel could get him to the infirmary.

Daniel struggled to sit up, pushing himself off the floor and searching wildly for the professor.

As soon as he made a move, a hand gripped his arm, hauling him to his feet and then shoving him
into a chair. Blinking, he tasted blood and felt it trickle down his chin. They twisted his arms
behind the chair, binding his hands together with rope.

Daniel spotted Dr. Hadley slumped in another chair and said urgently to the men, “Let me go

to him. Maybe he is just ill, maybe we can help him...”

“Believe me, Mr. Sinclair, I wish that were the case,” said the man with the deeper voice. He

appeared to be in charge. A large, muscular fellow, he wore dark clothes. A little taller, but
slighter in build, the second man dressed much the same. Both men wore dark masks over their
faces.

“No,” the man in charge continued, “I'm sorry, but the professor is dead. It was unintentional,

I assure you. But that leaves us with you, Mr. Sinclair, as the only person left who might be able
to help us build this machine again elsewhere.”

“No,” Daniel shook his head. “No, I'm only an assistant. I pull wires and build things, strictly

under the professor's close direction. He did all the calculations; all the mathematics that made the
machine operate. I can't help you with those.”

As Daniel spoke, the one who had hit him disconnected the small brass globe from the

archway. He placed it in a sack and then shoved the papers from the professor's desk into another
bag.

Daniel could only stare at the professor, still hoping for some sign of life; a twitch of the lips

or a shallow breath. But there was nothing.

“Let's move,” said the larger man impatiently. “Have you got everything?”
Just then footsteps sounded on the porch. A voice called out, “Daniel? Is everything...”
Daniel yelled, “No! Julian, get away...”

The tall man hit him a second time; a hard slap across the mouth intended to silence him.

From far away he heard the door burst open and he groaned faintly, “No ... Julian...”

He forced his eyes open in time to see a sparkle of light hit the tall man in the chest, causing

him to collapse. Blinking, Daniel saw another wire leap out from the brass tip of Julian's cane to
graze the arm of the man in charge, who cursed and clutched at his sleeve.

The first man was already recovering as the second retrieved the sack containing the globe.

They ran from the building, Julian pursuing them. But he quickly returned.

“They had horses hidden in the trees.” Julian went first to the professor and checked his pulse.

Looking to Daniel, he gave him a mournful look and shook his head. Daniel felt like crying.

Julian knelt to untie his hands and said, “I'm so sorry, my dear. Are you all right?” He rubbed

Daniel's chafed wrists, trying to restore the feeling. “You're shaking. You may have a
concussion.”

He tilted Daniel's chin up to look in his eyes and examine the bruises on his face. “Those

bastards,” he cursed. “We'll find them, and we'll get the globe. We won't let them get away with
stealing the professor's work.”

Daniel jerked away, springing to his feet. “His work—what do I care any longer about his

work? The whole thing was a mistake from the beginning. It got him killed!”

“Danny, please, calm down.” Julian wrapped the young man in his arms, trying to give

comfort and reassurance, but Daniel broke away in a rage. He looked around wildly for
something, anything, to help relieve the anger and frustration welling up inside of him.

“It was never worth his life, or all the lives that might be ruined. If we had only realized...”

Daniel found a length of heavy pipe and leapt at the archway, furiously smashing it. He swung the
pipe again and again until the structure collapsed.

Julian did not try to stop him. Instead, he moved to disconnect the generator and make sure

everything was powered down so Daniel would not hurt himself. Then he simply stood and
waited as Daniel accomplished the act which Julian had talked about doing only the previous
evening. Daniel attacked the calculating engine, shattering it into a hundred pieces. “Damn this
machine and all the harm it's caused!”

His rage spent, Daniel dropped the pipe and collapsed in the middle of the debris. He looked

around at the destruction and then buried his face in his hands, tears of grief and rage flowing
through his fingers.

Julian knelt next to him and once again wrapped his arms around him, leaning his cheek

against Daniel's and murmuring his name. Daniel released a deep breath and buried his face
tightly against Julian's shoulder.

They stayed that way for a long moment until Julian said, “I'm sorry, but we have to go.”
Daniel drew back to stare at him, his vision sill blurred with grief. “Go? What do you mean?”
“You heard those men. They have the device and some of the professor's papers, but the work

of rebuilding the archway and programming another calculating engine would go much faster if
they had you. I fear it will not be long before they attempt to take you from me. And I cannot let
that happen.”

He smiled at Daniel gently. “No, I cannot let that happen for so very many reasons.”
Julian continued. “So we have to leave. Now. I am bound by duty to go after them and

retrieve the device. And I have to protect you from them. So we have to leave, together, even
though that means I may be taking you even closer to them. I cannot leave you alone.”

Daniel looked at the professor's body. “What about...?”
“His man will come looking for him soon, will he not?”
“Yes. And when they don't find me, what will they think? That I am dead? Or kidnapped? Or

that I am responsible?”

Julian shook his head, apparently having no answer. Daniel stood, taking a last look around

the devastated workroom where he had spent so many hours and learned so much. He took a

closer look at the professor's work table. Most of the papers were gone, shoved into the thieves‟
bag.

As if reading his mind, Julian asked, “What was on the table?”
“Just scribbled notes and partial calculations. I'll be surprised if they can make anything of it.

I could not read his writing half the time, nor understand what I was reading even when I could
decipher it.” Daniel looked through the remaining scraps of paper littering the floor. “The
correspondence is gone.”

“The professor wrote to other scientists about his work?”
“Yes, scientists from all over the world. Most he consulted on specific aspects. There were

only a few who knew what he was really working on.”

“Do you remember their names?”
At Daniel's nod, Julian said, “That might give us a clue as to where to begin the search. But

right now, we have to go.”

Daniel left the workshop. “I need to stop by my room and get a few things.”
“I'll go with you.”
“You said we were in a hurry. Hasim will help us. Ask him to go to the garage and get two of

the steam cycles ready. Once they start looking for us, we'll need all the speed we can muster to
get through the gates.”

“Won't it take too long to get the boilers going?”
“Heated coals and water are always ready, and Hasim is the best at getting the steam up to

pressure. You can ride one?”

“Yes, but—
Disregarding Julian's protest, Daniel veered off, moving toward his own room. He heard

Julian pause for a moment and then head for the guest quarters to gather his own belongings.
Daniel breathed a sigh of relief. He didn't need Julian's observant eyes watching him as he hastily
threw certain items into his small bag.

It was late and the stables were quiet when Julian slipped in the side door. The stable master

appeared almost immediately. Did the man ever leave his stables?

“Hasim, we need your help. Something terrible has happened. Thieves broke into Dr. Hadley's

lab and stole his invention. The professor had a heart attack.”

Hasim looked shocked. “Dr. Hadley is dead? What about my Daniel?”
“He is on his way here. I'm afraid these criminals will come after him. He might be the only

person left who understands the invention. We need to get away. He has asked you to help me
prepare two of the steam cycles. He will meet us in the garage.”

“Are you sure he wants to go with you?” Hasim sounded suspicious. “There was no trouble

before you came.”

“I didn't do this.” Julian moved closer, staring earnestly up into Hasim's dark, skeptical gaze.

“Please believe me—I care about Daniel a great deal. I'm only trying to protect him. He can tell
you himself when he meets us. But we should be ready to go.” Then he hesitated, glancing over at
his filly's stall. “Will you take care of my Astrid?”

Hasim's hard face seemed to soften a little at Julian's concern. He gave a short nod. “We will

treat her well. The students will keep her busy and content.”

They headed for the garage. Hasim went to work and steam was quickly hissing from the rear

pipes.

Daniel appeared, carrying a small sack. “They've found the professor.” he said grimly. “I

heard people shouting about the workshop being destroyed. They're starting a search of the
grounds. They will be here soon.”

Hasim took the sack and secured it behind the seat. Then he turned to Daniel. “Are you

certain you must leave?”

“Yes. It's hard to explain everything, but the people who stole the professor's invention can do

a lot of harm. We have to try and get it back.”

Daniel reached up to place his hands on either side of Hasim's face. “I don't know where this

road will lead, or when I'll return. You've been such a good friend, Hasim. I don't know what I
would have done these last couple of years if I hadn't had you.” He pulled Hasim's head down and
gave him a long, gentle kiss. “Thank you for everything.”

Hasim turned away and blinked, trying to hide the wetness in his eyes. Then he looked at

Julian. “You take good care of my Daniel.”

“I will,” Julian promised.
Hasim handed each of them a pair of the brass-rimmed goggles intended to protect their eyes

from the gravel and other flying debris that would be kicked up by their wheels. Julian settled the
leather nose piece and then tightened the band securely around his head. He looked over at
Daniel.

Daniel gave him a nod. He was ready. Moving almost simultaneously, they opened the

throttles and steam poured out with an angry hiss. Julian took off down the dirt and gravel road
leading to the gate. Daniel followed close behind, veering to the side to avoid being enveloped in
the cloud of steam following Julian's cycle.

The guards at the gate were distracted by the commotion on campus, and late in closing the

gates. Taking a deep breath, Julian opened the throttle wide and sped past the men, barely making
it through the gates as they began to swing shut. Shouted instructions to stop followed him, barely
audible over the rushing of wind past his ears.

A pang of fear lanced through him as for a moment he thought that Daniel hadn't made it.

Risking a quick look behind, he saw the other man speed near him. Crouched low over the
handlebars, Daniel clung to his position behind and slightly to the right of Julian's cycle.

Dirt kicked up from the wheels stung Julian's face, and he was grateful for the goggles. They

fled though the city until Julian decided they were drawing more attention than they were
avoiding as they moved into a busier area. They slowed, balancing brake and throttle until they
had achieved a more sedate pace.

Daniel called to him. “Where are we going?”
Pulling to the side of the road, Julian let one foot fall to the ground as he steadied the cycle

and took a moment to answer. “I'm worried about Cassandra. And I would like to know where the
Blanchards were tonight.”

“You think they were behind this?”
“I don't know. But it seems a possibility. I want to go to the Golden Lion and find Cassie. She

sent me a message earlier today; she planned to play cards with them this evening. She also told
me the location of her room.”

They took off again, weaving carefully around the horses and other vehicles sharing the road

in this increasingly commercial area. Arriving at the inn, they left their steam cycles hidden in a
dark, quiet corner of the stables.

The innkeeper had stepped away from the desk and they slipped past and up the stairs to

Cassandra's room on the second floor.

Julian knocked lightly but there was no reply. He knocked louder and then tried the knob. It

was locked. He retrieved a small pick from his inside jacket pocket and proceeded to work the
lock, ignoring Daniel's raised eyebrows.

Entering the room, they saw a single candle on the table by the window, burned down to a

stub. They stood for a moment, eyes adjusting to the darkness. The soft, regular sounds of
breathing came from the direction of the bed.

Hearing no other noises nor seeing any movement, Julian said, “Daniel, can you light the

lamps?”

Daniel moved to do so and Julian went to the bed. “Cassandra.” He touched her shoulder,

being careful to move slowly. He knew from personal experience she kept several small but very
lethal objects about her person to use on those who were foolish enough to startle her awake.

The lights added sudden illumination to the room and he blinked. Daniel joined him and they

stared down at her.

“She doesn't look well,” Daniel observed. “And she's fully dressed.”
Cassandra lay on her back, her face pale, but her breathing regular if somewhat shallow.

Julian picked up her wrist and felt a strong pulse. “Drugged,” he said. “I think she will be all right
but there is no telling how long she will sleep. We will need to watch her to make sure she doesn't
take a turn for the worse. But I would very much like to know if the Blanchards are still here.”

“I will watch her. You go find out what you need to know.”
Julian hesitated. Daniel moved closer and reached up a hand to stroke the dark-haired man's

face. “You're worried about me?” At Julian's nod, Daniel said, “I'll lock the door behind you. For
all the good that seems to do. But if anyone tries to pick it like you did, I'll go out the window. I'll
have to leave Cassandra, but I think if they had wanted to hurt her, they would have done that
already.”

“Very well. I'll be quick.” Impulsively, Julian slipped his arms around Daniel and brought him

in for what was supposed to be a quick kiss. But he should have known he could never give
Daniel just a quick kiss. Once he felt those full lips against his, he wanted to savor them and make
it last.

Julian released the kiss, but still held him close. “Oh, my Daniel,” he whispered. “I was so

afraid for you today. I haven't had a chance to tell you and there's no time now but... When I
walked into the workshop and saw you bound with the blood on your face...” He stopped and
buried his face tightly against Daniel's neck.

Daniel stroked his back. “I'm fine, Julian. Now go.”
When Julian searched their room two days before, the Blanchards had been staying on the

third floor, one landing above Cassandra's. He moved up the old wooden stairs, wincing every
time he made an unavoidably loud creak.

Standing outside the Blanchards‟ room, he listened intently for any sound from within. Were

they gone? Or fast asleep?

Pressing his ear to the door, he heard nothing: no snores, no sleepy murmurs. The knob turned

easily. It was not locked. Slipping inside, he closed the door silently and stood for another
moment, listening. Moonlight streamed in through the window to cast shadows on the walls. As
his eyes adjusted, Julian saw that the room appeared empty.

He let his breath go in a silent release of tension and went to light the lamp on the desk.

Someone had made the bed, but a few items were scattered and out of place—a newspaper left on
a chair, a lamp moved from its usual place. Julian thought the Blanchards must have left that
evening and the hotel staff had not yet had time to clean the room for the next guests.

He began a search for any clue to the Blanchards‟ intentions or their next destination. Very

little of use remained in the room, but the waste bins had not yet been emptied. They were mostly
filled with old newspapers. He sorted through the papers until he found a possible clue; an airship
schedule. He examined it carefully. All scheduled departures from the South London Dirigible
Port were listed—airships flying to such great cities as Berlin, Paris, and New York. But as hard
as he looked, he saw no mark, no tell-tale tick of the pen next to any of the destinations.

After one last search, he returned to Cassandra's room and Daniel let him in. He went to stand

over Cassandra.

Daniel said, “She has not moved, but her color seems better.”
Julian nodded. “The Blanchards are gone. I feel certain now that they were behind the attack

today. But there is nothing to be done tonight and we need to rest. There are extra blankets. Can
you sleep on the floor?”

“Right now, I could sleep standing on my feet.”
Out of respect for whatever little surprises Cassandra might have hidden about her person,

Julian decided not to undress her completely. He removed her shoes and then asked Daniel to
help hold her while he loosened her dress and released her whalebone corset so she could breathe
more easily. Fortunately, she was in one of her more casual dresses, wearing only a single soft
petticoat. He pulled a blanket over her and then sat for a moment, holding her hand and feeling
her pulse again.

He became aware of Daniel staring at him with narrowed eyes. He stood and took the young

man in his arms. “I told you—she's a good friend. That's all.”

Daniel sniffed. “Hasim and I are good friends.”
Julian tried to hold back a laugh. “We're not friends in the same way you two are. When I say

friends, I mean just that. You know I'm not interested in women that way. I never have been. Why
are you acting like this?”

Daniel shrugged, looking down at the floor. “I don't know.” There was a pause. “It's just... I

just found you and I'm afraid... I don't want anything to threaten what we might have together.”

“Oh...” Julian held him closer. “My love,” he whispered. “I feel the same way. Believe me; I

want us to be together as much as you do. Maybe more.” He hesitated. He had laughed about it
but it did still bother him, a bit. “If anyone should be jealous, it's me. Hasim is quite a man.”
There was an unspoken question in his voice.

Daniel looked at him seriously. “I promise you, I have not been with him since you

discovered us in the stables. He is still my friend but I have not wanted him since I have been
with you.”

Smiling in relief, Julian gave him a kiss. Then they laid out several blankets on the chilly

wooden floor, stripped to their long drawers and extinguished the lamps.

Pulling one of the blankets over both of them, Julian reached for Daniel, pulling him close.

Sighing, Daniel pressed against his side, tangling their legs together.

“This is not how I meant to win your affection,” Julian murmured.
“Oh, you had a plan?” There was a lightness to Daniel's voice that Julian was pleased to hear,

given the traumatic events of the day.

“Yes, indeed. We were to dine this evening at the very best restaurant in London. Then we

would be off for a carriage ride around the park, where we would display the most untoward
affection for each other, giving the carriage driver and anyone else within sight quite an eyeful.”
He could feel Daniel smiling against his neck, so he went on, “Then I would take you dancing.”

“What?” Daniel scoffed. “Where would we go?”
“Oh, anywhere. You quite enjoyed it the other day, when we danced at the graduation party. I

know you did. It's not illegal here, is it?”

“No, but it's quite shocking. I don't care to have people staring at me like that. Anyway, just

because it's not illegal doesn't make it safe. Men have been killed for less overt displays.”

“Killed? For dancing together? Who would do such a thing?”
He felt Daniel shrug. “Religious zealots, or men who feel threatened by those who are not like

themselves. A lot of people are frightened of anyone who is different.”

Julian was dismayed. Not shocked; he had traveled to many worlds with different mores than

his. But he had not grown so jaded as to be undisturbed by gratuitous violence.

“Julian? I'm sorry I mentioned that. You were trying to make me feel better and I ruined it.”
“Oh, my love, you don't have to apologize for anything. It makes me sad, that's all. You

deserve so much better than this place.”

Julian stroked his face and lifted it for a long, deep kiss. Daniel pressed against him. Julian's

hands moved down to stroke his back, cupping his buttocks, squeezing and rubbing them. Daniel
took in a quick breath and pushed against him, his muscles flexing as he pushed the bulge in the
front of his pants against Julian's hard cock. They ground together tightly for a moment, breathing

hard, and then Julian began to kiss Daniel's neck, knowing how he liked it. He kissed the hollow
of Daniel's throat and heard a quiet whimper, then kissed down his chest. He stopped to pull off
Daniel's undergarments and his own.

He started where he had left off, kissing and then lightly scraping Daniel's nipples with his

teeth. Daniel gasped and arched his back. So Julian did it again and was rewarded with a moan as
Daniel's groin gave an involuntary thrust upward against the coverings. Taking this as an
invitation, Julian moved his head lower, disappearing under the blanket.

“What if Cassandra wakes up?” Daniel managed to gasp out.
“Knowing her, she'll want to join in. But I'll tell her to find her own man. I'm not sharing.”
Daniel stifled his shocked laughter and then his hips jerked upwards again as Julian engulfed

his hard cock. Julian sucked him in to the balls and began working him with lips and tongue,
stroking the underside of the head, tasting the precum already leaking. He fondled Daniel's balls
and stroked his crease, slipping one finger inside the warm opening. Daniel began thrusting in
earnest, breath coming faster and Julian tightened his lips, head bobbing. Daniel had his hands
cupped over his own mouth to stifle his cries.

Julian smiled around the smooth, thick cock in his mouth. He thought of Daniel in his own

bed, at home in his little house. He wondered how loud the young man would be if he didn't have
to restrain himself all the time. Julian badly wanted to find out.

Daniel gave a final thrust and a muffled cry. The warm, salty fluid spilled into Julian's mouth

as he continued sucking until Daniel shuddered with the intensity of the sensations. Withdrawing
his mouth slowly, Julian moved up to lie next to him and they clung together for a moment.
Daniel gradually started kissing Julian's face, then his neck as he worked his way downward.

“You don't have to.” Julian's voice was low and practically shaking with need. “I know you're

tired.”

After reaching down to feel Julian's burning cock, hard as iron, Daniel gave a little snort and

didn't bother to answer. He kept stroking with his hand as he settled himself between Julian's legs
under the blanket. He pushed open the Julian's thighs and licked his balls, eliciting a shudder. He
nipped and licked all around his cock: the balls, the sweet spot behind the balls, inside the thighs,
the lovely hollow at the base of Julian's belly, until Julian was thrusting and his breath came in
gasps.

Julian wove his fingers through Daniel's hair, wordlessly urging, begging for the feel of that

warm wet mouth on his cock. Daniel took him in gradually, inch by inch, as Julian squirmed and
thrust, trying to get more heat, more friction.

Daniel's lips tightened around him and Julian began a steady, hard rhythm. In a matter of

moments, he had to stifle his own cry as the hot pleasure burst from him.

In a daze, he felt Daniel clean him with his tongue and then settle next to him, arms wrapping

around him and face resting on Julian's chest.

After a moment, Julian whispered, “I think you almost killed me that time. And it's only our

second time together. I'm not sure I'm going to survive this relationship.”

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Five

The sun slanted through the small window, falling in a pool of warmth across Daniel's bare

back. The covers had slipped down to make a tangle of rough cloth wrapped around their hips. He
pushed into the warmth of the man next to him and Julian's arms went around him. Daniel took
comfort in the presence of the other man, as his eyes burned with renewed grief over the events of
the previous evening. The professor had always treated him so kindly, and had certainly not

deserved the ending he had received. Daniel pressed his face against the still sleeping form of
Julian as he fought to hold back the tears welling from his eyes.

Distracted by the sounds of movement in the room, he blinked away the slight wetness that

had escaped, and took a deep breath. Cassandra sat on edge of the bed, elbows leaning on her
knees and head in her hands. She peered at him through her fingers, and then looked down at her
disheveled clothing.

“It looks like there was a party and I slept through it. Did I at least have a good time?”
Julian chuckled next to him. “Your head probably feels like it.” He sat up. “Do you know

what they gave you?”

Cassandra shook her head. “Something they slipped into my port while we were in the parlor,

chatting about the Queen and trying to find a fourth for bridge. Did they bring me here or did
you?”

“They did, and they're long gone. We've got a lot to tell you, but we all need some breakfast.

Daniel and I will get dressed and then we'll meet you in the dining room.”

They were being served a large breakfast when Cassandra joined them, looking refreshed but

still with a little pinch between her eyebrows that spoke of a headache.

“It's better,” she insisted. “I just need coffee. Now tell me how you two ended up naked on the

floor of my room. I miss all the fun.”

Julian smiled, and then told her everything that had happened the previous day. Daniel

listened closely. It was a different perspective as Julian focused on how the men had known what
to take and when to attack.

Julian asked, “How did they come to suspect you, Cassie??”
“I like to think I am not such a poor actress. In fact, we had barely begun our conversation and

were on the very first glass of port when I felt ill. I truly do not understand how they knew.”

Julian shook his head, puzzled. “And I wonder why Theresa Blanchard approached me at the

graduation party, and began immediately speaking of all the good she would do with the
professor's invention.”

They were silent for a moment while Daniel stared back and forth between them. He voiced

the conclusion first. “So you are betrayed,” he said calmly. “There is someone working with the
Blanchards who knows you, or at least knows of you.”

Cassandra nodded. “You're no idiot, are you, Daniel? Yes, that is the only answer. But who? I

cannot even begin to speculate. Jules?”

“No one in the Department could do this. We take our duties very seriously, or we would

never make it through training.” Then he added, “But we must assume they know who we are,
and now we know who they are. But they don't know our next move.”

Daniel looked concerned. “Are you reporting back to New York? Perhaps by telegraph?

Could someone there be passing along information?”

“No.” Julian denied it. “We are not in contact with our headquarters and have not been since

before Cassie arrived. So now we must decide—what is our next move? Daniel, you mentioned
scientific correspondence. Are any of these scientists capable of recreating Dr. Hadley's
machine?”

“It would be difficult,” Daniel answered thoughtfully. “But with the notes and the globe

which is the heart of the machine, the Blanchards have enough information to believe it is at least
possible. And if they read the letters of Professor Armand Dubois, they may receive the
impression he could do it.”

At Julian's questioning look, Daniel explained, “Dr. Dubois is a professor at the Institut des

Sciences in Paris, an institution much like our own. He and Dr. Hadley corresponded regularly, as
he is very strong in engineering skills while Dr. Hadley was more proficient in the theoretical
calculations.”

Julian nodded. “Then we have a plan. We will find this Dubois.”

Daniel peered at the English Channel through the brass-trimmed porthole of the airship. He

had never had much occasion to travel and found the view from above an amazing sight, as well
as a slightly dizzying one.

The journey from London to Paris was brief. The three of them had found the passenger

lounge and Cassandra rested in a nearby chaise with her eyes closed, while Daniel and Julian
gazed out of the porthole and discussed the airship's velocity relative to the pressure in her bags
and speculated on the weight she was carrying. There were few passengers in the lounge.

Julian had his hands tucked deep within his coat pockets while he talked, and Daniel had to

hide a smile from him. He could see how badly the man wanted to wrap Daniel in his arms while
they looked out of the porthole together.

Casually, Daniel reached up and drew the ribbon out of his hair, running the strands through

his fingers. He murmured an explanation. “It's falling out. Need to tie it tighter.” But instead of
tying it right away, he ran his fingers through its length, smoothing it, and then draping the
auburn waterfall over one shoulder.

He heard a choked, “Daniel...”
“Hmm? Is there a problem, Julian?” He tilted his head, exposing his neck and biting his lower

lip.

“Yes, there's a problem,” Julian hissed. “If you don't stop, I'm going to find a closet and drag

you in, and to hell with it if we are discovered.”

Daniel chuckled and tied his hair back again. “Sorry, but you are so transparent. It is a wonder

you are successful as a ... at your job.”

“I'm very good at what I do. It's you, Danny. It's just you. I've been enchanted since we first

met, that day when the mechanical dragon nearly exploded. I am in such difficulty; if I don't think
of denying it at all times, my arms will go of their own volition to wrap around you and hold you
tightly. What am I going to do?”

“Well, you can stop talking like that, first of all, or I will be the one dragging you into the

closet.” Daniel took a deep breath, trying to damp down the fire that had flared deep within him at
Julian's words; at the warmth of the man standing so close.

A scent of lavender, and Cassandra stood nearby, her approach unnoticed. Straightening the

lace ruffles at her cuffs, she sniffed. “Are you adolescents? Surely you have more control. You're
going to get us all into trouble if you continue this sort of behavior.”

They were saved from a reply by the close approach of land and then the airship port. The

crew tossed mooring cables and the ground crew ran to secure them. They disembarked into a
beautiful late Paris evening.

There was nothing to be done at this late hour but secure two rooms at a respectable inn near

the Institute. Julian and Cassandra posed as man and wife traveling with their cousin. After dining
together, they retired to their respective rooms. Daniel waited in anticipation for the expected
knock on the door.

When it came at last, he put his hand on the knob, then paused before opening it to hear a

whispered, “It's me.”

He opened it, saying, “I was becoming worried...” but had no chance to complete his sentence

as Julian pushed him into the room and closed the door behind himself with his foot, somehow
managing not to slam it.

“Oh,” Daniel gasped as Julian's arms tightened around him and his mouth came down hard,

his tongue sliding in for a long, passionate kiss that left Daniel flushed and shaking.

Julian murmured, “I've been waiting for this. It's time for you to follow through after all the

teasing you did on the airship.”

“Julian! I was only...” Daniel didn't get a chance to finish before he was shoved against the

wall, the full length of Julian's body pressing hard against his as Julian reached one hand into
Daniel's hair, pulling out the ribbon and then twisting the thick strands tightly in his fist. He was

kissed again, deeply and thoroughly, until he moaned into Julian's mouth. Pressing his hips
forward, he moved one leg up to hook around Julian's waist and draw him even closer.

When Julian let him go, Daniel leaned back against the wall, his legs barely able to support

him. He felt he had never been so thoroughly kissed or so passionately desired. He looked into
Julian's face, still so close to his own. The grey eyes were dark with passion and something else,
something he couldn't quite name, and for a moment there was a strange feeling in his chest; a
small jolt as if his heart had missed a beat.

“Julian...” he whispered, his voice shaking.
“I know. I feel it too, my love.” Julian drew him to the bed and held him again for a moment;

his lips against Daniel's neck as kissed under his ear and then down his throat. Daniel shivered as
he always did when Julian kissed his neck, his reaction seemingly an involuntary response to the
warmth and the strength of the man holding him.

Wanting more, Daniel pushed Julian's jacket off his shoulders and then began on his shirt

buttons as Julian did the same with Daniel's clothes, pulling and unbuttoning until they were
naked together in a tight embrace on the bed.

Julian rolled Daniel under him, kissing him again and pressing the full lengths of their bodies

together as their cocks slid against one another. Daniel's hips bucked up, thrusting. He burned for
more contact, more friction. Julian's ass flexed as he met Daniel's thrust, moaning. He pushed his
knees between Daniel's, spreading his legs and sitting back between them so he could look for a
moment at his young lover.

He ran his hands down Daniel's stomach, stroking his skin and then brushing his cock to

Daniel's moaned response. He pressed against Daniel's thighs, spreading them even wider. The
sight of Julian bending over him, holding his thighs open and gazing down at his exposed
entrance so ... possessively ... made Daniel shake with an arousal like nothing he had ever
experienced.

“Julian ... please...” he groaned when Julian did nothing more than continue to gaze at him,

stroking his thighs and running a finger down his crease to press against his opening.

The man had the audacity to grin while Daniel was going out of his mind with need.
“I love to hear you plead.” Julian reached for the oil on the bedside table. “And I really love

your ass. Turn around.”

Daniel obeyed immediately, turning to his stomach and then lifting up slightly with his arms

underneath him as he drew his knees up to thrust his buttocks into the air and expose himself . He
wanted to look as tempting as possible; Julian was taking far too long, in his opinion.

It seemed to be working as he heard a slight moan behind him and felt Julian's hands on his

butt cheeks again, rubbing and slapping lightly. Daniel pushed his face into the pillow to muffle
his load moans as he thrust backward, silently begging for more. Two more slaps on each cheek,
harder this time, and Daniel squirmed under the strength of those hands.

The slick finger finally penetrated him and he gasped, bucking backwards. A second followed

it, and then a third. The fingers moved in and out, loosening him, and then one reached in and
gently stroked the gland. Electricity shot through him and he wondered if he would come without
ever having his cock touched.

“Julian, please...” If begging was what Julian wanted, then Daniel would oblige, if it would

encourage the man to mount him.

The fingers withdrew and then the warm hands were on his hips, pulling him up and holding

him firmly as Julian's thick cock penetrated Daniel's slick hole with one quick, deep thrust,
drawing gasps of pleasure from both men.

On elbows and knees now, Daniel was stretched to his fullest as Julian penetrated him deeply,

but the burn quickly faded as Julian changed his angle slightly to find his gland and begin hitting
it with a steady, pounding rhythm. Daniel bit the pillow, trying to muffle his loud cries of

pleasure. Then he pushed himself up to lean on one hand as he used the other to reach for own
burning cock.

“No.” Julian paused in his rhythm and pushed away Daniel's hand.
“Oh, but...”
“No. Place both of your hands on the headboard and don't move them.”
Daniel hesitated.
“Do it, my love.”
Julian's commanding voice sent a shiver through him and he complied once again, locking his

hands around the slats of the headboard. Not until he obeyed did Julian resume his pounding
rhythm. Holding the headboard gave Daniel little leverage to hold himself off the bed or to push
backwards, but he did not need to. Julian had a tight grasp on his hips, lifting his ass and pulling it
back hard to meet his cock again and again.

As the pounding continued, Daniel turned to look dazedly over his shoulder, peering through

his hair, to see Julian up on his knees as he pulled Daniel's hips up to meet himself. Julian's full
lips were parted as he gasped for breath and sweat matted his dark hair to his face as more trickles
of sweat trailed downward through the crisp black hairs covering his firm chest. Daniel moaned,
wanting badly to taste that sweat-slicked chest. Julian's gaze had been focused downward,
watching his steady penetration of Daniel's hole, but now he looked up. Their eyes met, and for a
moment there were no barriers between them; just raw emotion and a deep, intimate connection.

Julian leaned forward and wrapped his arms around Daniel's chest, pulling him up and then

turning his head to cradle it gently and give him a long, deep kiss. With one arm still holding
Daniel's back tightly against his chest, he wrapped his other hand around Daniel's cock and began
a firm stroking. Daniel's back arched as he was rocked forward and back, the sensations from ass
and cock overwhelming, and the pleasure building until his back arched one final time and he
cried out, the hot fluid shooting from him as Julian's hand continued to pump until he was drained
of every ounce of pleasure.

A moment later, Julian's body stiffened, and Daniel felt the unexpected aftershocks of more

pleasure as heat flooded him deep inside.

They collapsed together, Julian's sweat-slicked chest covering Daniel's back. Julian pulled out

his softening cock and lay on the bed, reaching out his arms in invitation. Daniel slipped inside
those arms and laid his head on Julian's shoulder, one hand moving up to stroke that firm chest
while Julian caressed his hair. They were silent, both of them drained and lethargic.

They drifted for a while, napping, until Daniel felt Julian stir next to him in the dark. “Julian,”

he whispered. “What are we going to do?”

Julian seemed to know he wasn't talking about the device, or any of their other problems. He

was only asking about one thing.

“I don't know yet. I know we've only just met, but I love you like I've never loved anyone, and

if there is a way for us to be together when this mess is done, I'll find it. If that's what you want.”

“It is. You must know it is. I love you too.”
“Tell me about your family. You did not go home for the summer break as the other students

did.”

Daniel was silent for a long moment. He didn't care to talk about his family, or his childhood.

“I am from the north of England. They are not even as tolerant there of those with our
predisposition as they are in the city. They sent me away to school when I was sixteen and they
realized what my lack of interest in the girls of the surrounding estates must mean. I was not very
upset about it, truthfully. I never felt I belonged there. I have one brother, who will inherit the
estate. Whether he will continue to send my stipend, I don't know, but I intend to be fully
employed at the Institute or some similar college before that happens.”

Julian played his fingers through Daniel's hair. “And have you seen them since you went

away to school?”

“No.” He turned to look at Julian in the dim light. “What of you? Any family?”
He felt, more than saw, Julian nod his head. “My mother is still very much with us, and I have

a brother as well. He is married to a wonderful woman and they have two amazing and exhausting
little ones.”

Daniel smiled at the affection in the man's voice, although he felt a bit envious. “Are they in

New York?”

There was an odd hesitation, and then Julian answered, “Yes.”
Daniel frowned and started to ask for clarification when he felt a hand creeping down his

stomach to rest on his cock, stroking it into life. Julian's mouth came down hard on his and any
thoughts of further enquiry quickly fled.

Long hair tickled his nose and trailed over his cheek as warm lips traced their way down

Julian's chest. He was reluctant to open his eyes fully to the sun shining in the window, being
entirely too warm and comfortable to move.

Tongue and lips trailed down his abdomen and he groaned, “My dear, I am willing but after

our exertions of last night, I do not believe I am capable...”

Indeed, last night had been memorable. After sleeping a short while, they had awakened to

make love again, to talk and laugh quietly, to sleep and then wake to repeat the sequence; how
many times, Julian could not say. All he knew was that it had been the best night of his life.

And now, when he thought he could not sustain another lovemaking session, a warm, wet

mouth proved him wrong. Daniel's lips tightened around him and his head began to bob as Julian
gazed down at him in wonder. He never seemed to tire and his enthusiasm was contagious. Julian
reached down to cup Daniel's head and began plunging into that wet heat as his urgency built. He
gave a final thrust and cried out Daniel's name as the rush of pleasure spilled from him.

Daniel settled next to him to nuzzle against his neck and Julian wrapped his arms around the

young man with an almost desperate feeling of need. He never wanted to let go.

After a long moment spent catching his breath, Julian reached a hand down to stroke him.

Daniel pushed into Julian's hand. Julian started to kiss his way down his sweet, slim chest,
pausing to lick the little brown nubs.

Daniel's back arched and he groaned, but he stopped Julian with a whispered, “No, my love, I

want you to kiss me some more. Will you use your hand?”

“If that's what you want. Anything you want.” Julian reached for the massage oil by the bed

and poured a few drops into his hand. Then he stretched out next to Daniel and began a long deep
kiss while his hand played with Daniel's balls, fondling them, and then moved to stroke behind
the balls. Grasping Daniel's shaft, he lightly rubbed under the head and brushed over the dripping
slit as he savored the little moans Daniel made into his mouth.

Breaking off the kiss, Daniel dropped his head back, exposing his neck. Julian knew what he

wanted and began the little kisses that drove Daniel wild, starting with the tender spot under his
ear and working his way around the lovely neck, kissing, licking, and sucking. He tasted uniquely
Daniel, sweet and salty at the same time, and Julian loved the taste of him.

Daniel's hips moved frantically, and a steady moan came from him as he reached for his

climax. Suddenly, Julian bit down hard at the juncture of neck and shoulder, marking Daniel as
his. The youth cried out, his hips thrusting one final time as he pumped out his pleasure into
Julian's still stroking hand.

A final kiss and they drifted off for a few moments, resting, until Julian sighed. “Cassie will

be wondering where we are.”

“Will she?” Daniel sounded amused.
“No, you're right. She knows exactly where we are and what we're doing. But she will be

getting impatient.” Julian sat up. “I could happily stay in bed all day with you. But we need to
find this Professor Dubois.”

They washed and shaved, using the straight razor Julian carried in his pack. As he finished

rinsing the last of the shaving soap from his face, Julian said, “I fear we were too late even before
we landed yesterday. The Blanchards have a long lead on us. If they do have Dubois, how long do
you think it would take to rebuild the machine?”

Daniel had been searching through his pack for clean clothes but was now sitting on the edge

of the bed, holding a book.

“Danny? What have you got there?”
Daniel looked at him, his hazel eyes troubled. “Perhaps I should have told you sooner.” He

opened the small leather-bound journal.

Julian took it and sat next to him. He studied the mathematical formulae, the diagrams and

cryptic notations. Each entry was dated, going back two years. He flipped through it. The book
was full, the last date several months ago. “Is this your writing? Is there another journal?”

“Yes, in my pack. The professor was a brilliant man but terrible at keeping notes of what he

had done. Every day we worked together, I made an entry in the journal before I went to bed.”

Julian gazed down at the journals for a long moment. “Why...?”
Daniel seemed to wince at the hurt in his voice. He stood up, moving restlessly around the

room. “I'm sorry. I didn't trust you, and if I am to be honest, I am still not sure I trust you entirely
with this information.”

Daniel sat by him again and took his hand. “Don't misunderstand. I said I love you and I mean

it. I believe you think you are acting in the best interests of everyone. But I still don't know who
you are or what you plan to do. First you are a businessman, and then you are an American spy.
After seeing that cane weapon of yours, I have doubts even that is true. You say you are from
New York but you are hesitant to discuss it. Not to mention you seem to have a traitor in your
midst.”

Julian felt a sinking in his heart. He had wanted more than anything for Daniel to believe in

him, to trust him, but how could he fault the young man for his misgivings when they were quite
justified? “If you have so many doubts, why have you decided to tell me now?”

“Because I have come to realize you are a good man, with honorable intentions. And because

I wanted you to see the complexities of the machine and of the calculations that allow even the
briefest foray through time.”

Julian frowned at him, not understanding.
Daniel shook his head. “You are concerned about finding Professor Dubois before he can

recreate the machine. I am concerned about finding him before they realize it simply is not
possible and kill him for his inevitable failure.”

“Are you certain? He cannot do it?”
“He is an engineer, and a brilliant one. But he is not a mathematician and even if he were, it

would take months, perhaps years, to create the theoretical framework necessary for the machine
to function.”

“This does nothing to reassure me. Quite the opposite, in fact, as it leaves you as the most

capable person to perform the work. When they realize Dubois has failed, they will come hunting
you with a vengeance.”

Julian stood and finished dressing. “At any rate, we are getting ahead of ourselves. Perhaps

we will find Monsieur Dubois safely in his laboratory at the Paris Institute.” But he did not sound
as if he believed it, not even to himself. He added, “Why don't you put the journals into the hotel
safe? I will get Cassie. We'll meet you in the dining room.”

Cassandra sounded annoyed as she opened her door. “It's about time. I hope it was worth it.

Where's your little friend?”

He wasn't in the mood. “He's meeting us in the dining room.”
“Oh ... I was just teasing, Julian. It really didn't go so well?”
“It was fine.”

And in fact it had been more than fine; it had been wonderful. They had been so close all

night. No barriers had existed between them. And now ... mistrust had reared its ugly head and
suddenly a wall existed where there had been none.

But who was to blame? he thought miserably. They had both been keeping secrets. Daniel had

at least revealed his, while Julian still dissembled.

The Paris Institute was awash in greenery and beautifully blossoming cherry trees in the

lovely spring morning. Upon enquiring after Monsieur Dubois at the Administrative offices, they
were directed to the machine shop he shared with several other instructors and students.

A large man greeted them at the entrance. “I am Gerard. How can I help you?” He spoke in

heavily accented English. Julian introduced them and explained that they were seeking Professor
Dubois in order to confer regarding an experiment.

Gerard lifted his hands and raised his eyebrows in an expressive Gallic shrug. “Je ne sais

pas.” He looked out at the sun shining through the wide garage doors. “It is a beautiful morning.
He is probably at his house in the country.”

Julian eyed him curiously. “Is it usual for the professor to leave without telling anyone?”
Gerard repeated slowly, as if speaking to an imbecile, “It is a beautiful morning.” Apparently

that was reason enough to leave the grounds.

Julian sighed and began to question him further when Cassandra intervened.
Turning the full force of her smile on the Frenchman, she asked, “Perhaps you can tell us

where to search for him? It is a matter of some urgency.”

Gerard blinked and then smiled back at her. “As you wish. He also has an appartement in

town, in Le Marais. Perhaps he is there.” He took her hand. “But madam, you cannot search for
him in an uncomfortable carriage. You must allow me.”

“Allow you ... what?” Cassandra asked rather cautiously.
The Frenchman grinned. “Why, to provide a swift means of transportation of course, so you

may accomplish your task with all possible comfort and speed.”

He then led them to a far corner of the garage where he gestured with pride toward a large and

elaborate steam-powered automobile. The area suddenly buzzed with activity as Gerard shouted
for the students to get the engine powered.

Refined coal filled the small bin in the rear of the conveyance. Daniel walked around the

vehicle, seemingly fascinated by the engine. His eyes widened as he examined the vents. Julian
smiled to see him so excited.

But the young man did not return his smile and Julian couldn't help feeling a bit slighted.

Instead, Daniel spoke to Gerard, not looking at Julian. “It's very advanced. The ceramic filters for
the exhaust are quite impressive, sir. And the suspension looks as if it will give a smooth ride—
smoother than anything we have at the Institute in London.”

Cassandra ran her hands over the brass-trimmed velvet benches. “Truly luxurious, my dear

Monsieur Gerard. Thank you.”

The Frenchman beamed at her. He took a moment to explain the controls, and then Julian

settled into the driver's seat with Daniel beside him.

Julian pulled the throttle and engaged the engine. Steam hissed from the coal-fired engine as it

escaped through the vents. The hissing quieted as the vehicle moved forward. Manipulating the
steering levers, Julian took them out to the street and they began their search.

Despite the marvel of their conveyance, their spirits soon flagged as they spent a long,

fruitless day searching for Professor Dubois. For upon reaching the flat in Le Marais, they found
it deserted.

Julian's French was rusty but Daniel was fluent, as any well-educated English gentlemen must

be, and Cassandra also spoke quite passably. Questioning the neighbors only brought another
suggestion—the Professor might be residing at a small cottage just outside of Paris where he
often went in the spring and summer months.

A soft rain fell in the afternoon, turning the streets muddy while accentuating the vibrant

green of new spring growth and the fragrance of early blooming roses.

Julian sighed in frustration. The gray clouds seemed to reflect the dimming of their spirits the

hunt led nowhere. The awkwardness between himself and Daniel did nothing to lighten their
moods. It troubled him, but he could not address it that afternoon. They must continue searching.

It was very late in the evening when they returned from their long drive to the cottage with the

fragrant rose garden that Dubois kept outside of the city. It had also proven a useless journey, as
the caretaker thought the professor was in residence at the Institute.

After returning their conveyance to the garage, they took the short walk back to their hotel in

thoughtful silence. They were disconsolate as they realized they had been correct; the Blanchards
must have taken Dubois. But where?

They speculated on the possibilities over dinner that evening. Daniel wondered if they had

taken Dubois back to their home. He asked, “Where do you think the Blanchards are from? I
thought they were English, from their accents, but now I am not so sure.”

There was an awkward silence.
“Still keeping secrets?” Daniel's voice was sharp, his expression full of resentment.
Julian started to reach for his hand but stopped himself. Instead, he leaned forward to plead in

a low voice, “I promise there is a reason for our hesitation and it is not lack of trust in you. I know
it is a lot to ask, but you must believe we are acting in the best interest of everyone as we try to
find the machine and keep it safe.”

Before Daniel could answer, a cool voice replied, “Keep it safe from whom, Mr. Blake? And

who are you to decide what is in the best interest of everyone?”

Theresa Blanchard calmly seated herself at their table as if she were an invited guest. Julian

looked around quickly. Yes, Kenneth Blanchard was by the door, standing as if at guard.

Daniel slammed his hand down on the table and leapt to his feet, drawing curious glances

from the other diners. “How dare you show yourself, you ... you ... murderer! You and your
henchmen. I should call the gendarmes right now, I should...” Daniel's face was flushed and
furious.

Julian rested his hand on Daniel's arm and tried to draw him back into his chair. “Quietly, my

dear. We will get to the bottom of this, I promise.”

Daniel pulled his arm away, but settled back into the seat, glaring at the raven-haired woman.

“You'll pay for what you did to the professor.”

Her green eyes were sincere. “I am so sorry, Daniel. It's what I came here to tell you. No one

ever intended any harm to the professor. We just wanted answers to a few questions. My friends
tell me they were not rough with him at all. They never struck him and did not even tie him up,
did they?”

“You had no right to frighten him so. He was an old man.”
Cassandra interjected, “Indeed, Daniel's complaint against you does make mine seem

insignificant—merely drugging me before I even had a chance to finish my port.”

Theresa did not look at her, still focusing on Daniel. “I can only say again how sorry I am. But

his heart gave out and that was no fault of ours. On the other hand, I know my colleagues did
strike you and I apologize for that as well.”

“What, no apology for me? You are giving them out so freely.” Cassandra didn't like being

ignored.

Theresa finally looked at her. “We did what we must. You understand, even if you don't

agree, but I don't think Daniel does.”

Daniel looked at the three of them and asked, “What do you mean?”
Theresa spoke to him as if the other two did not exist. “I asked you once before, Daniel. What

would you do if you were given the rare opportunity to save thousands of lives? Women and
children, innocent victims of a war they had no part in starting. People living like animals because

the never-ending battles have ravaged their farmlands; people dying of hunger and of diseases
which should be easily curable. If there were a way to prevent such a horror, would you not help
if you could?”

Daniel stared at her, eyes wide with dismay at her words.
Julian said to him, “I know how tempting it is to try and help these people. But any change

could potentially affect hundreds of thousands more. It simply is not a risk anyone can take.”

Theresa replied with bitterness. “And what would you do with the machine? Take it back to

your ivory tower, observe but don't do anything, leave people to rot when you could do so much
good?”

“Or so much harm. We are not gods, to make those kinds of decisions.”
Theresa turned to Daniel again. “And what will he do with you, when he has what he wants?

Do you think he will have any more need of you once he has learned all your secrets?”

Daniel was pale and trembling. Julian could see he was overwhelmed by the debate and the

undercurrents he could sense but not understand.

Julian said, “That's enough. You sit here and say you mean no harm but Professor Dubois is

missing and we can only assume you have coerced him into helping you, as you would have
forced Dr. Hadley if you could. Where is he?”

“We have coerced no one. I know you have been searching for him and I wish to set your

minds at ease. We have explained our situation to the good professor and he is helping us quite
willingly.”

There was a moment of shocked silence. Then Julian said, “If that is true, then we wish to

speak to him. Again, where is he?”

Theresa Blanchard stood. “I'm afraid I cannot tell you. But I assure you, he is well.”
Julian started to reply, but she raised one elegantly gloved hand. “I must go. Perhaps we will

speak about this again. And please, do not attempt to follow me. I have more than one colleague
and all are quite well-armed.”

Julian walked with Daniel to his room while Cassandra made her way to her own. He paused

outside the door. “I will be back in a few minutes, my love. I need a word with Cassandra.”

Daniel did not look at him, just nodded. Julian laid a palm against Daniel's cheek. “Theresa

Blanchard would say anything to help her cause.”

Daniel answered stiffly, “I have no intention of helping them, if that's what you're worried

about. Not after what they have done.”

“That is not my only concern, as you are well aware. Surely you must know by now how I

truly feel about you.”

Daniel bit his lip, and then sighed. “I do know, Julian. I just... It's very confusing.”
Julian kissed him. “Give me a few moments. When I come back we will talk about all of

this.”

Cassandra had a glass of whisky ready for him.
“Your private stash, Cassie?”
“Of course. One has to be prepared.”
“One drink, and then I have to get back to Daniel. He's upset. I'm afraid Mrs. Blanchard may

be affecting him.”

“He would have to be made of stone not to be moved by her story. But do you think he will

help her?”

“I don't believe so. But he is unsettled—I'm afraid as much by her comments about my

motives as her plea for assistance.”

“Then we must talk quickly so you can reassure him. The plan for tomorrow?”
“Continue looking for the professor. What else can we do?”
They discussed the possible avenues of investigation and then Julian returned to Daniel's

room. He entered and then came to a halt. Only a silent, deserted room greeted him.

Daniel was gone.

[Back to Table of Contents]

Chapter Six

Cool night air blew through the cracks in the poorly sealed windows, bringing with it the

damp smell of the Seine. The Auberge du pecheur was a far cry from the luxury of the hotel
where he had been staying. But Daniel wanted to lose himself on the streets of Paris. He had
rushed through the narrow alleys with no particular destination in mind, and as his funds were
limited, his wanderings had ended at this small, ramshackle inn near the river.

He sat on the narrow cot, absently rubbing his thumb over the rough leather of the journal. It

had not been an easy decision to flee. He already missed Julian, and would miss him even more
when the time came to extinguish the lamp and sink into his cold bed.

Staring at the books, he thought of the two years he had spent with the professor working on

the machine, and the many years of work the professor had given to the invention before Daniel
had become his assistant. These journals represented Dr. Hadley's life work; his legacy.

In an agony of indecision and loneliness, he dropped the books back into his pack and sank on

to the bed. Wrapping his arms around himself, he thought of Julian and almost returned to the
hotel to give him one more chance to explain where he was from and what he really wanted.

Perhaps in the morning. He would decide then. Curling under the worn blanket, he thought of

the previous night's lovemaking and eventually fell into a fitful sleep.

The hard pressure of a calloused hand across his mouth woke him with a jolt. He tried to fight

upright on the bed, but found himself shoved back down and then flipped to his stomach so
quickly he could hardly understand what was happening.

A low voice said, “Be still, Mr. Sinclair, and you won't be harmed.” The cold, round muzzle

of a pistol pressed briefly against his temple as if to emphasize the threat, and then his assailant
tied a rag around his mouth. After binding Daniel's hands behind his back, the big man roughly
pulled him to his feet.

Blinking, Daniel could barely make out a second, slimmer shadow by the door. “Hurry it up,

man, before someone hears.”

“In this place? If these rats hear anything, they'll just take another swig to drown it out. Have

you got all of his things?”

The large man who had bound him dragged him out the door. Daniel stumbled, but the grip on

his arm never loosened. Despite his hammering heart, Daniel tried to force himself to think. He
knew these two; they were the same thugs who had attacked him and Dr. Hadley.

And if they had his pack, then they had the journals.
Daniel cursed himself for a fool. He should never have listened to that manipulative woman.

He had played right into her hands. He suspected Julian had understood her purpose; that she had
been trying to drive a wedge between them and make Daniel flee Julian's protection. And it had
worked, he thought, angry at himself. Julian had tried to warn him, but he hadn't listened.

Once outside, he jerked away from the hand gripping his arm. If he could only get to the main

street, someone would see him and help.

But the man tightened his grip until Daniel winced, and said in that deep voice, “I told you—

you won't be harmed unless you fight. Be still.”

They threw him into a carriage, covering him entirely with a blanket. Daniel crouched under it

for the whole long, miserable ride. His arm felt bruised from the painful grip, his shoulders ached
from the strain of his arms being pulled tightly behind his back, and he had difficulty breathing
through the gag and the blanket that smothered him.

The carriage finally came to a halt and the blanket was removed. Blinking in the early dawn

light, he saw they were in the country, in front of a large barn in poor repair.

They entered and Daniel looked around in surprise. The outside had given no hint of the

spacious, sophisticated workshop within. Copper tubing and metal pipes ran throughout the barn.
Electrical wire lay in coils in the corners and a large orrery hung suspended over the spacious
work table. A coal-fired steam generator provided power to the equipment in the workshop.
Surely this had not all been built in only a few days?

“Farnsworth, be so good as to remove his gag. And he can hardly be of any use to us bound as

he is?” Theresa Blanchard gave Daniel her most charming smile while he glared at her.

But it was a relief to have his hands untied. As he stood trying to rub some feeling back into

his arms, he looked curiously at the profusion of metal tubes and glass containers until his eye
came to rest on a familiar iron archway at the far end of the barn. The brass globe spun slowly in
the center as a blond, mustachioed man completed the connections to the silver dial set into the
side of the arch.

Theresa said, “I am disappointed, Daniel. I thought you understood our cause and would help

us willingly. Instead, you tried to flee. Or perhaps it was only Julian you were fleeing?” She
looked at him closely. “A lover's quarrel?”

Farnsworth frowned. Now that he had removed his mask, Daniel could see that the man with

the deep voice was handsome and well-built, with light hair flowing to his shoulders.

“You didn't tell me he was Julian's lover, Theresa.”
“Does it matter? No doubt Julian was only trying to get close to him for his knowledge of the

machine.” She turned to Daniel again. “Did you finally realize it, and that is why you fled?”

“I don't trust him, and I don't trust you, either. All I want is to get away from all of you. I can't

help you. Why don't you leave me alone?”

“Perhaps this is why he decided to leave.” Kenneth Blanchard had removed his mask and was

searching Daniel's small pack. Retrieving the journals, he straightened and held the books for
them to see.

Farnsworth took the journals. He examined them briefly, and a broad grin crossed his face. He

spoke to Daniel. “Exactly what we need. Professor Dubois will be happy to have your assistance.”

“I should have destroyed them when I had the chance.”
Armand Dubois, the blond man, shook his hand and they sat together at the work table.

Farnsworth handed them the journals and then departed, saying, “We will expect a working
prototype very soon.”

“I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Hadley,” Dubois said in English with a slight accent. “It is a

great loss to all of the scientific community but especially difficult for you, I am sure, Monsieur
Sinclair.”

“You know who I am?”
“Oui, of course. Dr. Hadley wrote to me of his brilliant assistant. He said frequently that he

had accomplished more in the last two years than in the previous ten, because of your help.”

“Oh.” Surprised and touched, Daniel had to look away to hide the wetness that briefly welled

up in his eyes.

Dubois opened the journals and said in a low voice, “Do you think there is any hope of

rescue?”

“Mrs. Blanchard indicated you were helping them of your own free will.”
“I was sympathetic to their story, yes. You know it? About the war in their country?”
Daniel nodded.
“But when I told them I did not have enough knowledge to recreate the machine, they forced

me from my rooms at the Institute and brought me here, to my private workshop. I had made the
mistake of telling them I assisted Dr. Hadley with certain components of the machine.”

“So you are a prisoner as much as I.”

“Will anyone be searching for you? Who is this Julian?”
“He and his colleague, Cassandra, are government agents. But I ran from them, trying to

protect the journals. They will not know where to look for me.”

Theresa called to them from another table laden with fruit and croissants. “Breakfast,

gentlemen. You will eat and then you will get to work.”

After a quick meal, Daniel began to enter numbers into the calculating engine. When

Farnsworth complained about their lack of progress later that afternoon, Daniel pointed out that
the engine was smaller than the one he had used in London, and the controls unfamiliar.

He added, “As I have said before, I was only Hadley's assistant. I may not be able to recreate

his work, and even if I can, it will not be quick or easy.”

They spent that evening and most of the next day running cable to connect the machine to the

generator and studying the journals.

Late the afternoon of the second day, Daniel sat at the long table studying the calculations as

he prepared to add another calculation into the engine.

Farnsworth settled next to him, and asked, “Do you not believe these people need help? Or do

you believe as Julian does, that we are always to study, not assist when we are able to do so?”

“What you call assisting, he would call interfering. And the truth is that I don't believe or trust

any of you. None of you have ever named this unfortunate country. Surely I would have read of
such atrocities in the newspapers.”

“It is far away. You would not know it.”
Daniel snorted. He was tired of the unanswered questions.
Farnsworth smiled at his reaction. “I can see why Julian likes you. You are quite perceptive as

well as attractive.”

“You speak as if you know him.”
“We have met. But it was a very long time ago.” Farnsworth stood. “I'll let you continue with

your work.”

Later in the evening, Farnsworth approached them with his pistol drawn and motioned for

them to sit at the work table. Kenneth Blanchard bound them to the chairs and tied their hands in
front of them.

“What is this?” Dubois demanded, his accent becoming more pronounced. “We are

cooperating. We can do no more.”

“I apologize for this mistreatment,” said Theresa, taking a seat nearby and drawing her small

pistol from her skirts. “I assure you it is only for a short time. Kenneth and Farnsworth have an
errand to run and you will be freed as soon as they return. You can continue to study the journals
while you are so inconvenienced.”

“Inconvenienced!” Dubois was indignant.
Daniel felt a sudden misgiving. “Where did they go?”
“That is not your concern,” Theresa answered. “Please return to your work.”
Dubois was surreptitiously testing his ropes, but they were secure. Daniel felt admiration for

the handsome Frenchman. He had been a prisoner longer than Daniel, but was still trying to find a
way to thwart their captors.

“I assure you, gentlemen, I know how to use this pistol and will not hesitate to do so.”

Theresa watched them closely.

Daniel gazed at the open journal, the equations a blur as he tried to fight hopelessness.
Eventually, the rattle of a carriage broke the silence of the workshop. The barn door was

thrown open as Farnsworth and Blanchard dragged in two struggling figures and flung them to
the floor.

Farnsworth pulled one of them upright. “We thought you might need a little incentive,” he

said as he held the pistol to Julian's head.

Daniel tried to hide his terrified reaction at seeing Julian and Cassandra in such danger. “Why

did you bring them here? Did you forget I ran away from them? I don't care what happens to
either of them.”

Farnsworth did not believe him. “Do not doubt I will call your bluff, Daniel. I was Julian's

first partner many years ago, and I know him well. I can see how much he cares for you. I don't
doubt you feel the same.”

Julian said to Farnsworth, “You taught me a lot when I was a new agent, including the

philosophy of the Department. And now you are violating the very ethics you thought were so
important.”

“There comes a time when you have to take a stand. I have seen too much suffering, too much

horror, while the paper pushers make their rules without knowing the consequences of their
decisions.”

“But how do you know...” Julian began to argue when Farnsworth interrupted him.
“Enough. We can debate this later.” Farnsworth turned to the Blanchards. “Untie Sinclair and

Dubois so they can get back to work.”

Farnsworth settled at the table, speaking to Julian and Cassandra in his low voice.
“I wish I could hear them,” Daniel muttered to Dubois. He had missed Julian greatly, but

found himself unable to meet the man's eyes. Julian must hate him for running off—for not
trusting him.

“Indeed. I would like to hear that beautiful woman's voice. She must sound like an angel.”
Daniel looked at the Frenchman in astonishment, but he was staring at Cassandra.
“Who is she?” Dubois whispered. “You know her, don't you?”
Daniel told Dubois what little he knew about Cassandra.
“A government agent? She must be intelligent as well as beautiful.” Dubois was impressed,

and then outraged. “And to treat her so!”

The Blanchards returned with food. Daniel still avoided looking at Julian, although he sat next

to him at the table.

Julian stroked Daniel's fingers with his own bound hands. “It's all right, my dear. I know you

were trying to protect Dr. Hadley's work. But I was frantic, searching for you these last few days.
It wasn't easy for you to leave me, was it?”

Daniel felt a tremendous relief. “No. Oh, Julian, no, I didn't want to leave you.” He bowed his

head, trying to hide the tears that had sprung up in his eyes, but Julian grasped his chin and
brought him in for a long, tender kiss.

“It's all right,” Julian whispered again. Daniel slipped his arms around Julian, holding him

tightly, feeling the warmth and strength he had missed so much.

Taking a deep breath, Daniel straightened and looked anxiously at Dubois, not knowing how

the man would react to the display of affection. He need not have been concerned; Dubois seemed
far too busy assisting Cassandra with her meal as he poured wine and held a quiet conversation.

Daniel smiled. “I think Cassie has an admirer.”
“Good.” Farnsworth had approached unnoticed. “Perhaps you will both be more motivated to

finish the machine tomorrow.”

Dubois seemed worried as he glanced at Cassandra. Seeing that Farnsworth's words might

have the desired effect, Julian appeared to make a decision.

He spoke to Daniel and Dubois. “The best thing you can do for us is to stop working on the

machine. We cannot allow them to use it to change history, even if it should cost us our lives.”
Cassandra nodded in agreement while Daniel and Dubois looked at them, distraught. Julian
continued, “The changes will affect not only their world but all the worlds closest to theirs. They
have no right to make that decision.”

“Julian, you can't—” Farnsworth tried to stop him.

Julian looked at him calmly. “Daniel has a right to know the truth, and to know the possible

consequences of his actions. You made your decision with the facts in hand. Does he not deserve
the same?”

Daniel caught on quickly. “Worlds? You're saying parallel worlds do exist? That Dr.

Hadley...”

“Yes, I remember your conjecture regarding the disappearance of the mouse as it traveled

backward through time. I think you were correct, Daniel; you and the professor. The mouse spent
a few moments on a parallel earth before it appeared in the past. That is why the travel was not
instantaneous.”

“And you ... all of you ... you're from some other timeline? An earth parallel to ours.” He

stared back and forth between them. “But from different timelines?”

“Yes,” Julian said, ignoring Farnsworth's glare. “My people discovered the method of

traveling between parallel earths long ago. We set up a Department of the government to ensure
this ability would not be misused.”

“Misused!” Theresa Blanchard had joined them. “Is it wrong to want to save my people?”
“No, Theresa,” Julian replied gently. “I would probably do the same in your place. But it is

my job to protect the greater good. You have my sympathies.”

“I don't want your sympathies.” She looked at Daniel and Dubois. “I want you to get back to

work.”

Daniel finished the meal in silence, his mind reeling from the possibilities this new knowledge

presented. Then he said, “I need the journals and some paper and a pen to finish the equations.
Then I will be ready to enter the final program into the calculating engine.”

Relief sounding in her voice, Theresa said, “You do understand, then. You will help us?”
“I understand. If it were my world, I would do whatever I could to save it.” And he did

understand, although he agreed in principle with Julian. But to face the decision in reality; could
he condemn so many to a death that might be prevented?

At least the man was no longer keeping secrets from him.
Julian looked at him in dismay, “Daniel, please...”
But Daniel ignored him. He had an idea.
Julian gazed at Daniel's shining red hair as the young scientist bent over the journals. He

longed to loosen it from its ribbon and run it through his fingers. Could Daniel really be thinking
of complying with the wishes of Farnsworth and the Blanchards?

Julian was still in shock at this turn of events. He had known Farnsworth as Steven Tillman,

one of the best investigators in the Department. Steven had worked with him years ago, when
Julian was still a rookie—had watched out for him as he learned his trade.

Daniel and Dubois worked late into the night, the French professor following Daniel's

direction as they made sure the power from the steam engine was channeled properly to the
archway. Daniel finished programming the calculating engine and then calibrated the silver dial.
When they could work no more, they were allowed to rest.

Julian stretched out next to Daniel on the blankets and pulled the tired young man into his

arms while Dubois tried to make Cassandra comfortable. They fell into an exhausted sleep.

Theresa brought them coffee and croissants the next morning. Farnsworth ordered Kenneth

Blanchard to stand guard outside to make sure there would be no interruptions. Blanchard
checked his pistol, and then pulled a cheroot out of his pocket, lighting it as soon as he left the
barn.

A few final calibrations, and there could be no more delay.
Farnsworth said, “It's time.” He pulled Julian to his feet. “And just to make sure you've done

what you are supposed to do, we will send Julian through the archway first. Set it to deliver him
five minutes into the past.”

“No.” Daniel protested. “We use a mouse first in the test, not a person.”

“Are you saying you are trying to trick us? That you have not calibrated the machine

properly?”

“That's not what I'm saying...”
“Good. Julian will enter the archway. Now.”
Farnsworth pushed Julian toward the machine, and then stopped to look around expectantly.

“Should we not see him appear if he has been sent back in the past? And the Julian here
disappears. Is that not what happened in your first prototype? So something did not or will not
work correctly.”

Daniel replied, “I still hope to persuade you not to use Julian. Perhaps you change your mind,

or something else happened to change the experiment. Who knows what effect our disagreement
will have? Or has had? We know so little.”

“My point exactly,” Julian muttered.
Farnsworth growled impatiently. “We'll find out.” He pushed Julian into the archway and held

his gun on them. “Activate the machine.

Daniel adjusted Julian's stance, making sure he was positioned properly in the center of the

arch. He leaned close and Julian felt a small metal object slip into his pocket.

Daniel whispered, “Be ready, my love.” And before Julian had time to wonder what he meant,

Daniel pulled the lever on the silver dial.

Julian felt a tingling throughout his limbs and then a surprisingly familiar, gut-wrenching

sensation. The world swirled around him: glimpses of the barn as it existed in this time and place;
of the barn full of the smell of fresh paint and horses; of the trees outside, verdant in the spring
and then barren in the winter; of the stand of trees outside, and then of plowed land instead of
trees.

The dizzying journey finally ended and he bent double, leaning against an oak tree and

fighting nausea as he experienced the strangest sensation of deja vu. The hands bound in front of
him were the only difference between now and his arrival into this world. Straightening, he
groped for the small knife Daniel had slipped into his pocket and cut though the bindings. Still
leaning against the oak, he peered around the thick trunk to see the barn and Kenneth Blanchard
leaning outside the door, smoking a cheroot.

With a shock, Julian realized the truth—he hadn't actually traveled backward through time at

all. Hiding behind the large oak, Julian sank to the ground, stunned. Clever, he thought, clever,
clever boy.

All Daniel had needed was the absolute knowledge parallel earths did in fact exist. That

knowledge allowed him to change the equations, sending Julian across the timelines to end on the
same earth, but at a location a hundred feet away. Like the re-engineered New York Gate, poking
a hole across the parallel worlds to end in a different location in a parallel earth. Only this time,
Julian's journey had ended in the same world where he had begun.

What had taken the Department scientists years to perfect, Daniel had done in less than a day.
Julian took a deep breath, steadying himself, and put his mind to the task of overpowering

Blanchard. The armed man appeared alert, keeping a close watch on his surroundings. Julian
would have preferred to wait until the cover of night but feared Farnsworth would not be so
patient. When the ex-agent saw no results from the experiment, he might grow violent.

Moving through the trees, Julian came to the point nearest the barn and paused, trying to think

of a distraction. He decided to take the risk and attempt to lure Blanchard into the trees. Even if
Blanchard called Farnsworth to come outside, at least he would be away from Daniel and
Cassandra.

Julian found a heavy tree limb. Then he deliberately stepped on a branch, the snapping loud in

the afternoon silence. Blanchard looked his way, hand resting on the pistol inside his coat, but did
not shift his position. Julian moved five paces to the right and stepped on another branch.
Blanchard drew his gun and walked cautiously toward the trees. Silently, Julian circled around,

angling for the best position for an ambush. As Blanchard drew close, Julian moved quickly to
swing the branch against the man's head. Blanchard went down, shaking his head, dazed but not
unconscious. He pulled out the gun but his movements were slow. Julian snatched it from him
and held it against his head.

“Quiet, now,” Julian murmured. “I've got nothing to lose by shooting you.”
Blanchard stilled. Julian tied and gagged him, then left him hidden in the trees.
Julian circled the barn, looking for a hidden way in. The barn was old; some of the boards

were rotting. He found a weak area and pulled gently on one board. It loosened easily and he
peered through a heap of cogs and bits of metal piping abandoned in a corner of the barn. He
listened for a moment; Farnsworth's voice demanding an explanation was the only sound.
Carefully, he removed enough of the rotting boards to slip inside, still hidden behind the pile of
abandoned equipment.

Julian saw that Cassandra faced him while Farnsworth and Theresa focused on Daniel,

arguing. If he could catch Cassandra's eye...

He succeeded, poking his head up briefly. Her expression did not change but she began to

maneuver closer to Farnsworth and Theresa, preparing to provide a distraction when he gave her
the signal.

When she was as close as she could manage, he gave her a nod and she let out a sudden,

ripping scream, designed to make everyone freeze in shock. It had the desired effect as
Farnsworth hesitated for an instant before reaching for his pistol. Cassandra knocked his arm.
Shoving her aside, the ex-agent had his pistol out and lifted when both Daniel and Dubois tackled
him to the ground, Daniel knocking the gun out of his hand.

Then Julian was there, holding his gun on them as Dubois helped Cassandra to her feet and

cut her bonds. Julian tied Theresa and Farnsworth, and then went outside to bring in Kenneth
Blanchard. He made sure all were secure, then breathed a sigh of relief.

Seeing that Cassandra appeared unharmed and in good hands with her admirer, he reached for

Daniel. “You're not injured?”

“No,” Daniel answered, sounding a bit sad. “I'm well enough. Just tired. What will happen to

them?” He nodded at Farnsworth and the Blanchards.

“We will take them back with us, to our timeline. The Blanchards will eventually be returned

to their world. But Tillman—Farnsworth, as you know him—will be judged by our courts. I have
no idea of the outcome. The Department has existed for over fifty years and we have never had
such a betrayal. I still cannot believe it.”

Julian lifted a hand to stroke Daniel's face, run a finger down his cheekbone. “You can't stay

here. Others will come and try to get the secret of time travel from you. Come with us,” he urged.
“You will have much to learn of my world, but much to teach also. You are brilliant. Everyone
will welcome you.”

Daniel leaned into his hand. “But what of the professor's work? It is dangerous; you said so

yourself.”

“The choice is yours. If you trust us to use it wisely, we will bring the globe and the journals

with us. If you do not, we will destroy them now.”

Cassandra started to protest. Julian raised his hand to quiet her. “The professor's legacy is his

to do with as he thinks best.”

Daniel answered slowly, “You were willing to die, both of you, rather than see this invention

fall into the hands of those who would misuse it. You must have a lot of faith in your people to
trust them with this.”

“Yes,” said Julian, and Cassandra nodded. She still held the French professor's hand. He

wondered if she was even aware of it.

Daniel said, “You have to assure me I will be involved in whatever project is created to

explore this invention. I will not simply hand over the work and then go away. Can you make
such a promise?”

Julian was smiling. He looked at Cassandra, who said, “It seems you will be taking the

promotion after all, Jules. That will give you quite a bit of say in the project.”

“Yes, it seems so. In fact, I see a potential new branch under the Department, patrolling

history to guard against the misuse of time travel. As you have pointed out, Cassie, we are only
delaying matters. The machine will be invented again, but when it is, we will be ready.”

Cassandra suggested, “Professor Dubois could be in danger if others from the Blanchards‟

timeline think he knows the secrets of the time machine. Perhaps I should stay for a bit, to remove
the information from the calculating engine and keep an eye on things here?”

Julian grinned at the way the French professor's eyes lit up at the thought of spending time

with the lovely Cassandra.

“Just for a bit, then,” he said. “I will need your help eventually to begin this new branch of the

Department.” He couldn't help adding, “Planning on breaking a few rules of your own, Cassie?”

She at least had the grace to blush, even as she held the Frenchman's hand more tightly.
Julian reached for Daniel again, this time slipping his arms around the young scientist and

pulling him in for a kiss. “What do you say, Daniel? Will you come with us?”

“Your methods are very persuasive,” Daniel murmured against his mouth. “But I haven't yet

heard your most convincing argument.”

Julian drew back, puzzled. Cassandra was looking at him now as if he were an idiot. Daniel

appeared to be waiting for something. The answer finally dawned on Julian.

“Oh, my love,” Julian said, cupping Daniel's face with his hands. “Don't you yet know how I

feel about you? Of course you will stay with me. I have the prettiest little cottage on the outskirts
of the city. It is small but there is room for two and there is a large shed we could turn into a
workroom for you and...”

Smiling, Daniel shut him up with a kiss. “That is all I wanted to hear. I will come with you.”

The End

About the Author:

I've lived in Florida most of my life and have a hard time imagining living anywhere it gets

below freezing and actually stays there. Fortunately, I have a husband and two cats to keep me
warm. Not to mention the steamy romances I enjoy reading so much that the stories often
continue in my head long after the book is finished. When I finally decided to start writing my
own stories, I found that writing is just as much work as I always suspected it would be, but I also
discovered I enjoy it more than I ever thought I would. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as
I enjoy writing them. Visit me at brenchristopher.com

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