Even now, after all the time they'd spent together as partners and equals -- as lovers -- Damen could still not shake the memories that stirred as he quietly and carefully went about the business of unbuttoning Laurent's shirt further. At least this coat lacked those infernal laces.

'Does he know the truth about me?' he asked when finally he was able to part the thick fabric in full. He pressed his hand against Laurent's warm side, keeping him close as he considered the question. 'Or am I still your Akielon slave to him?'