Prologue
Syria - 1992
So, it’s finally come down ‘ta this. The doc said it would, but I hoped he was wrong.
With a heavy sigh, Captain Bruce Dutcher continued his thought: Hell, who am I kiddin,’ he’s never wrong. At least I don’t have ‘ta face it alone. I don’t think I could do this without Alan.
Bruce glanced back at his team, his best friends and brothers who waited on the helicopter. Pride washed over him as he looked at them, and pain at what they were about to go through. It was a shame events came to where they were, forcing them to give up their lives and disappear.
Ruefully shaking his head, he thought: The price of bein’ too successful.
Bruce began preparing his team for this inevitability months ago, but now that the moment was upon them, the men felt apprehensive about what path their lives would take and how they would live. However, they were soldiers, Navy SEALS, the best in the world, and would survive. Each of them had the utmost confidence in the doctor, but starting new lives away from the military and everything they knew was… well, daunting, to say the least. At least none of them had any family to grieve when the world thought them dead.
Bruce pushed aside his concerns to focus on the present; he needed to feel and appear confident to his men. They trusted him, and the doctor, and he knew they would follow him. Their loyalty ran deep, and he loved them for it.
Shouting over the noise of the rotors, Bruce said, “Doc, we’re ready! Let’s get this show on the road!”
Dr. Thomas knew Bruce could hear him despite the noise and in a normal tone of voice replied, “Very good, my boy. You all know what to do.”
Bruce asked, “Doc, are you sure you’ll be okay on your own!? I’d feel better if you came with me and Lt. Whetherson!”
Dr. Thomas grinned and said, “Rest assured, Bruce, I will be fine. I think the phrase you would use is, ‘This is not my first rodeo.’”
The doctor’s uncharacteristic grin was rare for him. He was a very positive man but rarely smiled. As Bruce and the others got closer to the doctor after working with him for a few years, they worried about him. Occasionally, when he let his guard down, a deep thread of sadness surfaced.
The doctor held up a small device, a trigger switch devised for that moment. Toggling the switch, the light turned on, and Bruce knew there was no turning back. Every bit of electronic information regarding each of them vanished with the flick of that button, and the doctor assured him hard-copy paper trails would soon follow. Bruce had no idea how the doctor could manage that, but he was sure it would happen. Oddly enough, Bruce felt relieved; there could be no more doubts and moving forward was the only option.
Bruce knew better than to argue, so he shook the doctor’s hand and hollered, “See you in a few months, Sir!”
Turning and ducking his head, Bruce trotted back to the waiting helicopter. He hopped on board the Sikorsky MH-53 and gave the pilot a thumbs-up for takeoff. As large as the craft was, it still bounced slightly from his weight. Bruce would miss the helicopter; it had been modified and designated for their use and held many memories of the past few years of his life. It held a distinct smell to his enhanced olfactory perceptions; a mix of fuel, saltwater, used equipment, and even the musky scent of their sweat from years of running missions. It was oddly comforting, and he was sorry the craft would be another casualty in securing their safety.
Flipping on his Commlink, Bruce said, “Alright, ladies, this is it. Switch ‘ta channel 5.”
The contemplative looks staring back at him told him everyone had the same thoughts, and an unusual quiet fell among them. Typically, there would be laughter and shit-talking amidst their usual banter.
With everyone on the secure channel, encrypted by one of the doctor’s devices, Bruce reviewed the plan one final time. As with any mission, each man had his role down pat and repeated it verbatim. If they were nervous, none of them showed it, and with the mission underway, he saw the same relief on their handsome faces; the fact that there was no turning back gave them a sense of freedom and direction. Jim’s mischievous grin was back and he winked to let Bruce know everything was going to be alright. One of them patted his shoulder as he often did to them, expressing their comfort and support.
The wind picked up, and the flight grew bumpy. As the ten men headed out to sea the sky darkened and scattered lightning periodically lit up the thick clouds. Bruce wasn’t sure why the thought occurred to him, but he realized stormy weather always seemed to accompany crucial times in their lives. He wasn’t a superstitious man and let the thought go, but with his enhanced perceptions, he felt the thunder inside him and sensed there was more going on than he could comprehend.
Snapping back to the present, Bruce asked, “Keith, are you good to go on the pilot?”
Keith responded with a crisp, “Yes, sir, Cap.”
In his Captain’s voice, Bruce said, “Alright, everybody! Suit up!”
In pairs, the men helped their partners change into scuba gear. Alan had prepped his and Bruce’s equipment and was changed and waiting for him. Alan couldn’t help but admire Bruce’s physique as he stripped off his flight suit. His body was perfect from head to toe, deeply tanned and heavily muscled. The genetic alterations induced in Bruce and the rest of the team transformed all of them into perfect physical specimens. On top of his body, Bruce always seemed so graceful and confident, like a statue in motion. He radiated a natural charisma, but at the same time he was one of the humblest men Alan had ever met. Ruggedly handsome, Bruce’s physical traits along with his personality made him perfect to Alan.
After he joined the program, Bruce, along with James, Keith, Paul, and Don, became far stronger than ordinary men, with their bone and muscle density over four times that of a typical fit adult male. All of them weighed in excess of 400 lbs. and were solid muscle, however, entirely proportioned to their height along with a low body-fat ratio. They looked like Greek statues or bulked-up fitness models with their frames covered in thick, lean muscle.
The changes also encompassed augmented physical abilities, including agility, speed, dexterity, and balance, as well as enhanced senses. Alan, Gary, Jim, Dan, and Fred didn’t have the increased muscle and bone density of their counterparts, but the doctor enhanced their minds in addition to their bodies, so they were smarter and more intuitive. They became empathic, allowing them to sense and induce emotional responses in ordinary humans. Between the mental and physical attributes of the men, they were the most formidable SEAL team that had ever existed, which is why they were also one of the most highly kept secrets in the US Government. Project Glass Hand was a name only a handful of government officials even heard of, off the books and above Top Secret.
The doctor designed each couple to be dependent on one another, one representing the body and one the mind, and whether it was the doctor or nature taking its course, the couples fell in love with one another shortly after meeting and training together. All of them were gay, which the doctor said was necessary from a genetic standpoint for optimal effectiveness of the procedure, but regardless, they formed intense emotional bonds and fell deeply in love with their partners after the initial changes.
Once everyone changed with their gear prepped and ready, Bruce gave the pilot a new set of coordinates for their drop, and then over the secure channel said, “Alright guys, let’s execute this like any other mission. If anyone’s got any questions or doubts, this is your last chance ‘ta bring ‘em up.”
No one said a word, and he didn’t expect them to.
The pilot flew below radar cover, and an hour later they hovered at the given coordinates. His voice came over the Commlink, “We’re here, Captain. In the middle of nowhere, but this is the spot.”
Bruce acknowledged, “Roger that,” and then nodded to Keith, who moved forward as he pulled out a special syringe prepared by the doctor. Keith caught the unsuspecting pilot off guard when he reached around and pulled off the pilot’s flight helmet and oxygen tube, putting him in a chokehold. The pilot panicked, especially from the sting of the needle that entered his neck, flailing his arms and legs as much as he could in the tight confines of the cockpit. Much stronger than the pilot, Keith easily held him until the serum took effect.
The pilot quickly calmed down, and Keith let him go. With a face void of emotion, he put the helicopter on autopilot and changed into a wetsuit Alan had prepped for him. While the pilot changed, Bruce went to the back of the aircraft and lowered the rear panel. The water below looked cold and dark, almost black, and he heard the crashing of the waves along with the thunder and lightning in the sky.
Turning his head back to the men, Bruce shouted, “Schrader! Shogren! You’re up! Let’s go!”
Bruce dropped the inflatable raft for the pilot to use once they got him down. The doctor said a nearby submarine would pick up the distress beacon, and Bruce had never known the doctor to be wrong, so he felt confident the pilot would be alright.
James and Dan pinched their noses, held their regulators, crossed their legs, and jumped. Bruce watched them splash down and saw James bob up first, giving a thumbs-up as soon as he cleared his mask.
Don and Jim were next, followed by Paul and Gary, and then Keith and Fred. While the others jumped, Alan made his way to the cockpit, connecting another of the doctor’s devices to the navigation system of the helicopter. Flipping the switch, the light started flickering, letting Alan know it was transmitting data.
Alan moved back and shouted to Bruce, “It’s plugged in and working! We have three minutes! Let’s get him down!”
The pilot had drop training and knew what to do, even if he wasn’t in control of himself mentally. The serum controlled his actions and prevented him from remembering anything that was currently happening. The pilot jumped, and Jim and Don got him safely onboard the inflated raft. Jim climbed in with him to double-check to make sure he was secure and wouldn’t fall out unless the raft capsized.
Bruce and Alan looked at one another and smiled. They had come so far together, neither could imagine a life apart. Placing a hand on Bruce’s solid shoulder, Alan squeezed firmly, putting the feelings running through him into the gesture. With his touch, Alan’s emotions pushed into his lover, causing Bruce’s breath to catch. Alan had the same response from Bruce’s reaction.
Bruce chuckled and swiped his eyes, saying, “You fucker.”
Alan said, “Well, Bruce, this is it. I’m glad it’s you and me.”
Bruce responded, “Me too, Alan. As long as we’re together, we’ll make it work.”
Alan steeled himself against the dark, frigid waters he was about to plunge into. He envied Bruce’s warmer body temperature but not his extra mass with the swim they were about to make. Even with the higher oxygen content in Bruce’s body to help with buoyancy, it would be a long swim.
Bruce said, “On three… one… two…”
The little kid grin Bruce sometimes got appeared as he pushed Alan off the platform one count too soon. He heard the beginning of “You fuckkerrrrrrrrr!!!” before the wind ripped Alan’s shout away even from Bruce’s exceptional hearing. Bruce chuckled to himself and jumped after his best friend and lover.
When Bruce surfaced and cleared his mask, the others had gathered and waited, hanging on the edge of the raft containing the unconscious pilot. A few seconds later, the helicopter moved and started to gain altitude. They watched until it was almost out of sight and then saw the ball of fire as it exploded, plummeting into the frigid depths of the Mediterranean.
Just as the ball of fire impacted the water, lightning ripped across the sky accompanied by heavy rain. Jim reached into the raft to activate the S.O.S. beacon, saying, “Sleep tight, fella. Hopefully, that submarine is close.”
The raft drifted away, helped by a solid push from Keith and Don. The ten men formed a circle, arms out and around each other’s shoulders while their sturdy legs kept them treading water.
Bruce looked at them and said, “Be careful, guys. We’ll see each other back in the States in a few months. Stick ‘ta the plan, and everythin’ll be fine.”
Grinning, right before he put his regulator back in his mouth, he said, “Remember, for a bunch of fuck-ups, you’re still the best.”
The rest of the men, including Alan, grinned back and flipped him off. With that gesture, they started swimming in pairs at slightly different angles, each heading towards the shore and leaving their old lives behind.
The doctor arranged for papers and money to get them out of Syria and back to the United States, and three months later the men arrived in pairs at predetermined rendezvous points. By the time they reached Atlanta, after taking a very scenic tour of the U.S. to ensure no one from the Government saw through their ‘accident’ and tried to trace them, the doctor had houses, vehicles, and new identities for them complete with background stories and family histories. He also acquired a facility for a new laboratory and had the building modified according to his needs. It was apparent he had been planning the changes for some time.
Sitting in the new lab, Bruce and Alan looked over their new identities. Bruce’s name was now Ken Habersham, and Alan’s was Brad Wilson.
The doctor had taken care of everything, and they started their new lives together.
Chapter One
18 Years Later – Atlanta, GA
Ken looked forward to getting home. After an intense workout at the lab with Bryan and Kevin, he could use a massage. With their new client, some up and coming rap singer, he expected a long night and wanted to get the kinks out of his back and shoulders before heading to work. Aside from the massage and alignment, Ken wanted to get home to his partner. He and Brad had been together nearly twenty years as best friends and lovers and were tighter than ever.
As Ken pulled into the garage and shut off the engine, Brad’s car was already there, and his handsome face broke into a smile. He knew the massage would lead to great sex and put a lid on his libido. His training ingrained the necessity to stay in control and alert at all times, and the only time he let his guard down was when the house was in ‘vault’ mode, or if he was with the doctor at the lab.
Closing the garage door with the remote, Ken entered the house through the laundry room and went into the kitchen. The first things he saw were Brad’s legs and the island covered with grocery bags. The top half of Brad’s body remained hidden behind the open refrigerator door while he put everything away. Brad wore shorts and sandals, allowing Ken a good view of his sturdy, muscled legs.
Calling out his usual “Hey, B!” greeting, Ken entered the kitchen and hung his keys by the security panel.
Brad’s typical “Hey, sissy!” response was slightly muffled with his head in the refrigerator. “What time do you need to head out tonight?”
Ken said, “Yeah, I don’t have ‘ta be downtown until 2100, so we have plenty ‘a time. In fact, I think we need ‘ta have a little fun before dinner. What’cha think?”
Brad’s face broke into a smile, and he replied, “Like I just won the lotto! Give me a couple of minutes to finish here, and I’ll head back. Is the garage secure?”
Ken nodded, “It is… I’m gonna’ flip the switch if you have everythin’ out of the car?”
“Yeah, I’m good. Go ahead.”
Ken opened a small panel by the door, and immediately after entering his code the air pressure changed as seals activated throughout the house. He felt and heard the slight ‘thunk’ as titanium bolts went into every exterior door and window sill in the house. Even after eighteen years, Ken still never wholly relaxed until he heard that noise.
While Brad put groceries in the fridge, Ken moved behind him, wrapping his arms around his lover and resting his chin on Brad’s shoulder, giving him a full-bodied hug. The warmth and strength of Ken’s body, coupled with their stubbled cheeks rubbing together and his hot breath in Brad’s ear, had the desired effect.
Brad relaxed into the embrace, inhaling deeply and taking in Ken’s scent. Ken had worked out, and even though he didn’t sweat much since the program unless he pushed himself, he still had a natural musky smell that Brad found intoxicating. Closing his eyes, Brad put his hands on Ken’s forearms wrapped around his waist.
Chuckling, he asked, “You know what you just did to me, right? You fucker.”
Grinning, Ken moved one hand down and cupped the front of Brad’s shorts, whispering his reply in Brad’s ear, “Yeah, I got an idea. Finish up quick.”
Ken pulled back and put his hands on Brad’s shoulders, giving him an affectionate squeeze and pat on the back. A quick peck on his cheek followed as Ken moved out from behind him, going through the den and down the hall to their bedroom.
When Ken came home, he often thought about how lucky he was to have Brad in his life. Not only was he an amazing man and head over heels in love with Ken, he was also a total stud and everything Ken ever dreamed about in a partner; stunningly handsome with a remarkable body and the soul of an angel.
Brad needed to be physically exceptional to be with Ken and worked hard to keep in shape, but the eye candy was still amazing and never got old. At 6’ 2’’, with golden blond hair and 245 lbs. of lean muscle, Brad was definitely a looker. Physically, everything about Brad turned Ken on, from his muscular physique to the hair patterns on his body, covered with a light dusting of the same blond hair on his head, and his eyes a crystal blue Ken frequently got lost in.
Beyond his looks, Brad was a remarkable man. He was fun to be around, although he tended to be the more serious of the two, kind, compassionate, good with group dynamics, and sensitive to the needs of people around him, often going out of his way to help others, even to his detriment and sometimes Ken’s. Brad was wise for his years, although none of them knew exactly how old they were anymore. Ken wasn’t sure if they stopped aging once the doctor changed them or if they just slowed down, but neither one of them looked or felt a day older than when they entered the program.
Ken was a looker, too. With no conceit or cockiness, he was aware of his looks. Dr. Thomas made him that way; he made all of them the way they were. The closest description he could think of was Steve Roger's transformation into Captain America. Ken and the other four men representing the body could bench press half a ton if they pushed themselves. There were other alterations besides strength, and according to Dr. Thomas the changes were ongoing, which is why Ken and the other guys continued working with him in secret. After faking their deaths and acquiring new identities, they were still together as friends and workmates, with Dr. Thomas as their mentor and surrogate father.
Ken thought Dr. Thomas somehow made them all fall in love with one another. With all of them gay, a fact the Navy wasn’t aware of at the time, being in the military forced them to suppress their preferences for men, and their outward demeanors were extraordinarily rugged and hyper-masculine.
The Black Ops team they formed was the most successful the Navy had ever seen; ultimately too successful. It was unfair to compare them with ordinary men, even ones as highly trained as other Navy SEALS or Army Rangers… again not out of arrogance or cockiness. With their genetic enhancements, ordinary men, regardless of how much training and conditioning they had, couldn’t compete.
There were serious ramifications to the program and the changes they underwent. The need for the partners was one, but with the bonds between them, none of the guys saw any of the reasons as a downside. Their pairings were for their safety and well-being, and the security and welfare of others.
The main reason was Ken, or the other four ‘bodies,’ could kill another man during sexual intercourse. The fact that he weighed 420 lbs. would be a shock, but he could keep his strength in check and not hurt another guy. The downside was in the case of fluid exchange during sex, as Ken’s DNA would overwrite theirs, and without immediate and proper treatment, that person would die a quick and painful death. Part of the alterations in Brad and the partner’s representing the mind were specific enzymes to prevent that from happening. In fact, their DNA was designed to be compatible with their partner’s so it couldn’t be overwritten. Brad and the other four ‘minds’ also received a temporary physical and metabolic boost from their partners after making out with them… nothing close to Ken’s scale, and it only lasted a short time, but it allowed for hours of incredible, fun-filled sex.
Other changes in the ‘bodies’ included substantially augmented senses, which were one of the more challenging changes to adapt to; eyesight, hearing, smell, and touch the most prominent. The modifications in Brad and his group were mental more than physical, with their changes being increased intelligence, intuition, and empathy. There was no telepathy, which Ken jokingly gave the doc shit about. Dr. Thomas never denied the possibility, saying it was intentional and ‘perhaps later.’ Ken could never tell if he was serious or joking when he said that.
Ken’s thoughts went through his mind as they occasionally did when he walked into the house and saw Brad. He realized how lucky he was to have such a remarkable man in his life, and memories of events that led up to that point in their lives together flashed quickly through his mind. He didn’t think of them consciously much anymore, but they were always present in the back of his mind. Their past was a comfort he cherished, and their future something he very much looked forward to. He could no longer imagine his life without Brad in it.
Ken turned his thoughts back to the present as he put his gym bag in the closet. Going to the bathroom, he took a leak and washed his hands but nothing else. He grinned, knowing Brad would want to smell him as he was. Ken always got a kick out of that. Taking off his shoes and socks, he kept his underwear and t-shirt on knowing Brad would want to finish undressing him.
Finished with the groceries, Brad came down the hall and as soon as he walked into their bedroom, he was struck by the sight of Ken standing there, his dream man from head to toe. Everything about Ken, every minute detail, put Brad’s libido into overdrive. Along with Ken’s extraordinarily handsome face, every aspect of his features and body were desirable. Even more amazing to him, and incredibly humbling, was Ken felt the same way about him. They shared a connection, probably part of their pairing from the program, but it didn’t matter. The important thing was he knew Ken felt the same way.
Unfortunately, Brad didn’t have the control over his body Ken did and became instantly hard again, which was easy to spot in the shorts he had on.
Brad walked over, and without saying a word, lifted Ken’s shirt up and over his head. He loved the motion of Ken’s muscles as he raised his arms, watching his chest thicken when his arms came back down. The heat from Ken’s body, along with his scent, was intoxicating. Removing his own shirt, Brad dropped it to the floor and closed the gap between them. Bringing his arms up, one around Ken’s shoulders and behind his neck and the other around his waist, he pulled them into a tight hug.
With the house in ‘vault’ mode, Ken let his defenses down and desire loose. He put his arms around Brad the same way, pulling him tight, but instead of kissing they rested their chins in the crux between the other’s neck and shoulder, relishing the touch of their bodies. Brad never tired of feeling Ken against him, and his hands started roaming. Ken brought one hand up between them, running it through Brad’s chest hair and found a nipple, and chuckled at the resulting shudder. Their erections, hard but still contained, pushed against one another through their shorts.
Snaking a hand down, Brad popped Ken’s ass, and Ken’s knowing grin indicated he knew what it meant.
“Okay stud, before I get lost in this Calgon moment, I need to put the brakes on and take care of you.”
Brad reluctantly pulled back, his arms falling to his sides. Ken’s eyebrows rose at the mention of being taken care of. It was an old joke but always made them smile.
The eyebrows didn’t go unnoticed, and Brad said, “You know what I mean, big guy. First, I get to rape your body with my hands, and then, when I have you at my mercy, I might decide to let you have a happy ending. If, and I mean, IF, you’re a good boy. You know the drill. Take off your underwear, or better yet, let me take it off.”
Brad pulled Ken’s underwear down and let it fall to the floor, leaving Ken completely naked.
“Arms out, feet apart.”
Ken knew the routine well, as they repeated it after every workout, and sometimes just for fun because it always led to great sex. Straightening his posture, he put his feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, and held his arms straight out at shoulder height. It was the Vitruvian Man pose the doctor taught them, saying it had a symbolic meaning. Oddly enough, even after years of working with him, he had yet to explain the significance.
Brad retrieved his tablet and calipers and started a thorough visual examination, measuring Ken’s body fat and the size of each muscle group. Dr. Thomas was very meticulous about wanting everything recorded, accepting no excuses for lack of data. Brad ran his hands over every inch of Ken’s body as if he were examining a thoroughbred horse, poking here and there and pressing on his abdomen and lower back.
On his knees, Brad glanced up with a grin and said, “I love my job. Have I ever told you that?”
Ken smirked and replied, “Only every time we do this.”
Touching Ken, even though it was clinical, always excited Brad. Ken enjoyed it as well, evident by the state of his erection. Ken was never a hardcore jock before the program and wasn’t used to being touched in such a manner, but after his transformation, it became a regular, almost daily activity.
He was no longer body-shy, but with his body, he didn’t have to be. Of course, at the moment, he was letting himself go, but when Dr. Thomas performed the exam or one of Brad’s counterparts, Ken didn’t have any problem keeping himself in check. However, Brad’s hands were the issue at the moment. Through his empathic ability, Brad’s love and tender care for him were evident with every touch and squeeze, and that turned him on far more than the physical act of touching.
“You pushed yourself today, didn’t you? In particular, your upper back and shoulders.”
“Mmm-hmmm.”
Brad chuckled as he asked, “Any particular reason? Trying to impress someone?”
With a grin, Ken replied, “Don’t be a douche. I did it for your benefit ‘ta see if you could figure it out without me spellin’ it out for you.”
“Well, the douche comment is going to cost you. Get in the chair.”
Moving to the massage chair in the corner of their bedroom, Ken draped his body comfortably, placing his face in the hole and his chest and arms on the pads. Brad pulled out a bottle of special oil that the doctor provided and started the massage.
Over the next hour, while Brad worked on Ken’s body, they talked as only best friends can, shooting the shit, cracking jokes, and hanging shit on one another. Sharing the same sense of humor, they could laugh at themselves or each other at the drop of a hat.
Ken’s muscles were so dense, it took significant effort to attain the deep tissue movement the doctor required, so by the time Brad finished he was breathing hard and sweating.
“Okay, time to get on the bed.”
Ken ignored him, acting like he fell asleep until he heard Brad rolling up a towel and knew his ass was about to get popped if he didn’t move. He knew Brad was smiling, and with an exaggerated groan, he moved to their king-sized bed. Brad already had the comforter pulled down and the pillows set, and Ken crawled to the middle of the bed, wiggling his butt at Brad before maneuvering onto his back. Brad finished undressing, then climbed on top of Ken, straddling his stomach. The sight and touch of their naked bodies caused a quickening of their breath and a renewed desire in the pit of their stomachs.
Ken put his hands behind his head as Brad gazed down at the physical perfection of the man in his bed —his man, his best friend, and his lover. Brad always went a little off record at that point in the massage and confessed the changes to Dr. Thomas years ago, and the doctor assured him it would make no difference in the outcome of the record-keeping.
Looking down, Brad stared into Ken’s piercing green eyes as he sensually continued the massage, starting with Ken’s chest and slowly moving up to his neck and shoulders. Closing his eyes with a sigh, Ken, relaxed and put himself in the care of his lover.
Fuck his hands feel good.
Leaning over, Brad kissed Ken’s forehead while running his fingers through Ken’s hair. Ken still kept his hair short, and Brad loved running his fingers through it. He also loved touching Ken’s strong, masculine face. Holding Ken’s head gently but firmly, Brad kissed his way across Ken’s forehead, down his nose, on each cheek, then moved to his neck and earlobes, moving slowly from side to side. While kissing him, Brad massaged Ken’s temples and gently rubbed his thumbs over Ken’s forehead. Ken became a little overwhelmed by the sensations Brad stirred in him, not only from the physical tenderness but emotionally from the love behind it. Brad’s feelings bled through his touch, and Ken felt them as tangibly as his hands.
With everything Brad stirred in him, Ken teared up, thinking to himself, “God, I love this man so much.”
After a few minutes Brad pulled back, saying, “Okay, stud, you’ve worn me out. I need a recharge, courtesy of Ken Jr.”
Staring at one another and smiling through their eyes, they sighed in pleasure as Ken slipped into his lover, joining their bodies in the most intimate way two men could connect. Their hands roamed as their passion built, each loving the feel of the other. It wasn’t just the touch of their muscled bodies; what they felt for each other went far more in-depth, augmenting the fires of their desire with the emotional intensity between them.
Ken was aware of the trembling in Brad’s body and knew it wasn’t only from passion. Brad always put more than one hundred percent of himself into the massages, and his arms were fatigued. It was part of his job as a trained physical technician to keep Ken’s body in top shape, and much of Brad’s own pleasure came from making Ken feel good while at the same time helping to maintain his body.
Everything about Brad turned Ken on, and with Brad on top of him, he had a perfect view of his muscular body. Ken caressed Brad appreciatively, almost worshiping him. Some of his touches were gentle, and others firm, gripping muscles and feeling the tightness of his lover’s body.
After a few minutes, Ken’s deep voice broke the silence as he said, “Hey B, let’s flip over. It’s time for me ‘ta take care of you.”
Sitting up, Ken put his arms around Brad’s back, and Brad moved his legs around Ken’s waist, locking his ankles together. Ken effortlessly flipped them, twisting in the air, so Brad landed on his back with Ken on top of him. Brad learned early on to brace himself for that maneuver because even though he was strong, Ken’s weight could take his breath away if it caught him by surprise. As soon as they stopped bouncing, Ken lifted himself by his arms to ease his weight and focused entirely on his lover.
In the midst of making love, Brad moaned, “Oh God, Ken… if you only knew how you make me feel…”
Brad’s comment sparked a memory in Ken. In recent months, he had thought about extending their physical connection, even mentioning his idea to Dr. Thomas. The doctor didn’t say much but didn’t try to talk him out of it either, so Ken went to the part of his mind where he controlled his physical abilities, visualizing their bodies merging, overlaying one over the other into a single body, holding the image and intent in his mind.
Brad immediately knew something had changed; he felt a brief sense of vertigo and began experiencing odd sensations. Ken realized something happened when a strange look crossed Brad’s face, and he stopped moving. Scared he might have hurt his best friend, Ken took Brad’s face in his hands, looking into his eyes for some type of reaction.
“B? Are you alright?”
Slightly disoriented, Brad answered, “Yeah… What did you do?”
“I was tryin’ somethin’ new…. When you said ‘if you only knew how you make me feel’… I wanted to see if I could do that.”
With a wry grin, Brad said, “Well, shit. How about a little warning next time, you bastard.”
Embarrassed, Ken said, “Sorry, B, I didn’t mean ‘ta ruin the mood. It was a bad idea.”
“Hell, no, I think it’s awesome, and now I know what you were trying, what I felt makes sense. Try again.”
“Are you sure? I’d never forgive myself if I hurt you.”
Chuckling, Brad said, “You couldn’t hurt me if you tried, Ken… apart from breaking my body in half without breaking a sweat.”
“Okay, here goes nothin’…”
Grinning, Ken went back to the place in his mind and started slowly thrusting again. This time, with both of them aware of what was happening, it seemed to work. The connection was weak in the first few seconds, but rapidly increased; it seemed as if their bodies were made to be together.
Their lovemaking took on an intensity that caught them both by surprise, and their movements became more frantic, almost uncontrolled, and Ken had to hold himself back so he wouldn’t hurt Brad. Brad always sweated more than Ken, but they were both drenched, and veins became visible across their bodies from their efforts.
With his arms around Ken’s shoulders, Brad hugged him as tightly as he could, pressing their cheeks together and whispering in Ken’s ear, “God, I love you, Ken… don’t stop….” With their new connection, Brad felt his own breath in Ken’s ear, and it turned him on even more.
The sensation of sharing each other’s pleasure drove them both over the edge. It wasn’t like each of them had his own orgasm; they shared the same orgasm. Their bodies, unable to withstand the pleasure, reached their climax simultaneously, and it seemed to go on for nearly a minute. Brad felt the heat of Ken’s discharge inside him, and as soon as his body absorbed Ken’s DNA, he felt invigorated as strength flooded into him.
Ken had never broken out in such a heavy sweat during sex, and the feel of his warm body coupled with his sweaty skin was a huge turn on to Brad. Holding tight to one another, they enjoyed the post-orgasmic euphoria, not wanting the feeling to end. The emotions in both men were more intense and gut-wrenching than ever before, and they didn’t want to separate.
After a few minutes both of them said, “Shit, that was incredible.”
Their shared comment brought a laugh as they hugged tighter, their bodies stuck together in the aftermath of their lovemaking. Once they stopped laughing, they lay still for a few moments, until Brad broke the silence when he quietly said, “I love you, Ken.”
Ken didn’t reply with words but rolled them over so Brad was on top, and started a kiss. They continued resting together, each lost in his thoughts, drifting and enjoying the after-sex intimacy.
Minutes later, Brad propped himself up on an elbow and said, “Hey, Ken, hold on tight for a sec. I want to try something.”
Wrapping his arms and legs around Ken, Brad flipped them over, copying Ken’s earlier maneuver, and the bed creaked loudly as they bounced to a stop.
Ken’s eyes widened, and he looked at Brad, asking, “Fuck B, how’d you do that?”
“I’m rushed right now, and a lot stronger. It’s never happened this fast or intensely before. I always feel charged up after you get off in me, but this time with that new trick it’s almost overwhelming, but in a good way.”
Brad re-engaged their lips, and after a long passionate kiss, he looked into Ken’s eyes. Remaining still for nearly a minute, they stared at each other, and both of them teared up. That was when Brad noticed a strange gleam in Ken’s eyes. Not a glow, but his eyes became lighter for a brief second, almost white, then returned to their usual green.
Ken, never one to let a serious situation go to waste, blurted out, “God, we’re pansies. Who ordered the waterworks?”
Brad couldn’t help but laugh and collapsed on Ken, holding and hugging him. After a few minutes Brad rolled on his side, and they repositioned themselves, facing one another so they could continue to look at each other. Both men had their heads propped up on one hand while their other hand roamed over the other’s body, caressing and taking each other in. They were intimately familiar with each other, and long ago gave carte blanche permission to touch the other as they did.
Breaking the silence, Brad said, “You know, we need to talk to the doc about this, probably sooner than later. I might call him and head to the lab after you leave for work. Speaking of work, I need to get you some dinner before you go, so as much as I want to lay here and have endless repeat performances of this new ability, we need to get moving. Let’s jump in the shower quick, and I’ll get dinner started while you get ready.”
“I don’t know about endless repeat performances, but you’re right. Damn, I’m hungry… In fact, I’m starvin’. That might ‘a taken a bit out of me.”
Brad sat up and pulled Ken up too, this time almost effortlessly with his increased strength.
With a concerned expression, Brad said, “Sit here and don’t move.”
He rarely used that tone of voice, so Ken didn’t move.
“What, B? I'm fine! That was the most awesome sex we’ve ever had, and it just took a little more outta me than usual. It’s all good.”
Brad grabbed a medical bag from the closet, pulling out a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope, taking Ken’s blood pressure and listening to his heart.
“Just humor me, and don’t fuck around, alright? What we did is new, and there might be side effects. You should probably get one of the other guys to cover for you tonight and go with me to see the doc.”
Pulling the stethoscope off he said, “Your vitals are okay, so if you’re just hungry, it’s probably fine. Let me check your blood sugar.”
Ken’s vital signs, unique to him, were normal, but the heavy sweating and his appetite, coupled with the brief lightening of his eye color, had Brad concerned. He didn’t mention the eye change to Ken, not wanting to worry him.
“There’s no way I’m callin’ in sick. I’m already coverin’ for Kev tonight, so I’ll look like a douche if I do that.”
“Well, you are a douche, so you need to come up with a better excuse.”
Grinning, Ken said, “Okay, fucker, you’re askin’ for it.”
Ken stood up quickly, catching Brad off guard and throwing him over his shoulder in a fireman’s carry, walking him to the bathroom. Laughing, Brad called Ken a variety of names while being manhandled by his best friend and lover. Ken also took the opportunity to cop a feel while Brad’s sculpted ass was over his shoulder and exposed.
They showered together, and although they each got hard, there wasn’t enough time to fool around, so they dried off and Brad threw on some shorts and headed to the kitchen while Ken got ready for work.
A few minutes later, Ken came down the hall in his black dress slacks and shiny black shoes with no shirt, looking like a stripper halfway through his act. His skin shone with an ultra-healthy glow from the massage oil, and veins on his upper body were still visible, which always turned Brad on. Watching Ken come down the hallway. Brad wished they had time for another round of sex before Ken had to leave for work.
Ken saw Brad staring and with a smirk said, “Don’t drool, B; it’s unbecomin.’ I thought you were a professional.”
Laughing, Brad retorted, “Well, I was expecting a fully dressed, drop-dead gorgeous, hi-powered private security agent, not a Chippendale stripper. Sorry, my bad!”
“I didn’t want to get any food on my shirt.”
“Dig in; there’s plenty. I warmed up the rice from last night since you said you were hungry and threw in another chicken breast.”
Brad filled his plate but mostly wanted to sit and watch Ken eat. He loved how the muscles in Ken’s jaw and temple flexed as he chewed and swallowed, especially after a massage when his skin glowed with health. Ken’s muscles danced under his skin even with the smallest movements, and Brad never tired of simply watching his masculine beauty. Ken noticed him staring and stopped mid-chew.
With his mouth full, he tried to say, “Wha’ the fuchh,” and started laughing.
Brad looked down at his plate as a tide of emotions unexpectedly surged to the surface of his mind, overwhelming him and catching him off guard.
“I don’t know, Ken. Fuck! I’m sorry...”
Squeezing his eyes shut, Brad fought back tears as his body trembled with the onset of the powerful emotions.
Seeing Brad’s reaction, Ken rushed to his side and knelt beside Brad’s chair, putting an arm around his shoulder in concern. Brad rarely lost control of himself, and it scared him.
“B, what’s wrong? Talk ‘ta me!”
It took a minute for Brad to get himself under control. Putting an arm around Ken, he rested his chin on Ken’s shoulder, and the warm solidity coupled with the simple act of being held helped calm him. To Brad, there was no safer feeling in the world than in Ken’s arms. Ken’s hands gave him comfort, one rubbing the back of his head and neck, while the other soothingly ran up and down his back.
Once he got himself under control, he said, “Damn, I don’t know why I’m crying. I was just sitting here looking at you, and these emotions just came up out of nowhere. It was overpowering and a bit jumbled. I’m already feeling better. Thanks, Ken, I didn’t mean to go all ‘big girl’ on you.”
Gripping Brad’s shoulders, Ken looked into his eyes, seeking an answer to what just happened and brushing the remaining tears away with his thumbs.
“Alright, maybe it was stupid ‘ta try. I shoulda’ known somethin’ like this might happen.”
“Don’t blame yourself, Ken; the doc all but said to try it.”
“Yeah, but it’s uncharted territory, and we know how that can lead to unforeseen consequences.”
“I think it’s just a temporary adjustment… I’m sure the doc can explain it better, but I think our nervous systems temporarily linked, and your hunger and this emotional thing with me are like little aftershocks.”
“Oh God, you just sounded intelligent, now I know somethin’s wrong.”
Brad couldn’t help but laugh.
“Fuck you. Alright, finish eating and go get dressed, or you’re going to be late.”
A few minutes later, while Brad put the plates in the dishwasher and cleaned up, Ken came down the hallway fully dressed.
As he pulled on his aviator sunglasses, Ken asked, “No jokes, how do I look?”
“Like a badass security agent. I pity the fool who wants to mess with your client with you on the job.”
“Now that’s what I wanted to hear. Why can’t you be this supportive all the time?”
Laughing, Ken dodged the wet dish towel that came flying his way.
“Okay, B, I gotta hit the road. I’m not sure when I’ll be home. The club our client wants to go to closes at 0400, and if she decides to stay, and then hit Waffle House or IHOP after, who knows how late, or early tomorrow, it could be.”
“Alright.”
Brad gave Ken a quick parting kiss and straightened his jacket more squarely on his shoulders.
He sniffed and said, “Damn, you smell great. Have a good night, and be careful. If the doc clears it, I want more of the best sex we’ve ever had tomorrow, so don’t wear yourself out.”
Ken flashed Brad his sexiest smile along with a double eyebrow raise in response to his comment.
Ken entered his code on the security panel, the air pressure changed, and Brad heard the familiar “thunk” of the door and window seals pulling back. Apparently, his strength wasn’t the only thing augmented by Ken’s new ability. As soon as the house was out of ‘vault’ mode, Brad noted the subtle shift in Ken’s posture, exuding a serious demeanor with a ‘don’t fuck with me’ attitude.
The kitchen door shut, and Brad was alone in the house.
He heard the garage door open and Ken’s Explorer pull out of the driveway.
<><><>
Brad texted a ‘711’ code to the doctor, which meant ‘it’s urgent to call back but not life-threatening,’ and his phone rang within seconds.
“Doc?”
“Yes, Bradford, what is it?”
Even after almost twenty years, the doctor still called the men by their formal names. It was another of his idiosyncrasies, like never using contractions when he spoke.
“Could we meet at the lab tonight? Something happened we need to discuss, and I think it should be sooner rather than later, if at all possible, sir.”
“Of course, my boy, of course. If I leave now, I can be there in half an hour. If you do not mind, could I beg a favor?”
Brad grinned, knowing exactly what the doctor’s ‘favor’ was.
“Yes, sir, of course. A Number Four Platter, add a chicken plank, extra fries, no slaw, and a large sweet tea?”
“You are a remarkable young man, Bradford!”
“It’s no problem, sir.”
With a smile Brad thought, not for the first time, that one of the reasons the doctor gave Brad and the mental partners perfect memories was to remember his food orders.
“Very good, Bradford. Please do not forget extra ketchup!”
“Never, sir.”
Still smiling, Brad grabbed his keys and headed out.
<><><>
Brad stopped to pick up the doctor’s food on his way to the lab. They called it the lab, but it was actually an old healthcare facility the doctor had renovated to suit their needs. The front of the building contained a medical testing business that was inaccessible from their side, so once inside the building there was complete privacy.
No one knew how he pulled it off, but an immense sub-basement comprised most of the facility they called the lab. Their entrance was at the rear of the building via a secure, reinforced steel door. The lab even had a specialized full-sized gymnasium for Ken and the other physically enhanced team members, as well as rooms on the medical side for sleeping or emergencies in case someone got hurt. The doctor could perform full-blown surgery if necessary.
Brad walked in and set the doctor’s food on the only open spot on his cluttered desk, then went to his own workstation to download Ken’s exam data from his tablet. The lab was networked, but typically wasn’t connected to the internet, as the doctor didn’t trust some pre-pubescent genius hacker not to break in. There was a hijacked satellite link to several top-secret government computer systems, but the doctor didn’t say much about that and only used it when necessary. Other than that, everyone had their own workstations, tablets, and smartphones. The doctor developed nearly all his own applications and databases for his research and was light years ahead of what even the US Military had at its disposal. During Brad’s time in the Navy, he had seen some large, sophisticated systems, but nothing to match what the doctor put together.
It wasn’t long before Brad heard the doctor come in and call out his name.
“Bradford!?”
Brad got up and went back to the doctor’s office.
“Good evening, sir. Thanks for meeting me on such short notice.”
“Not at all, Bradford, not at all. If you do not mind, I am famished so you can fill me in on what you wish to discuss while I eat.”
The two men settled themselves, and Brad started the conversation.
“Well, sir, Ken told me you two discussed this at some point, and while you didn’t encourage him to go through with it, he said you didn’t prohibit the attempt either. After his post-workout exam today, which you know usually leads to some extra-curricular activities, something happened.”
The edge of the doctor’s mouth rose almost imperceptibly in a knowing smile at the reference to his and Ken’s ‘extra-curricular’ activities.
“In the heat of the moment, I made a comment… ‘I wish you could feel what you’re doing to me.’ I felt dizzy, and Ken immediately sensed my disorientation. He stopped whatever he tried, thinking he might have hurt me. When I asked him what he had done, he said he tried a new technique, wanting us to share our physical sensations. Once I knew what he attempted, I realized what I felt and told him to try again. Sir, it was the most fantastic sex either of us has ever had. After we finished, I noticed something odd, and there were a few side effects in both of us; Ken’s in his body and emotional in me.
“Ken commented that whatever he did must have taken a lot out of him because he was ravenous, and I don’t think he noticed how much he ate before leaving the house. I fixed enough dinner for at least five people, and Ken ate everything I didn’t. He also sweated profusely during sex, which he rarely ever does. For myself, as you know, I gain some temporary benefits from intercourse with Ken, but this time it happened almost immediately, the effects were much stronger and longer-lasting, and included my senses. I also experienced a short but intense emotional rush that was disconcerting and extremely unsettling.”
During Brad’s debriefing the doctor didn’t say a word, spending most of his time using his teeth to open packets of ketchup before digging into his fish and chicken.
“You mentioned something else, something odd. What was that?”
The doctor ate, listening with no hint of surprise or concern, which put Brad at ease. If the doctor didn’t seem concerned, then he must have been expecting something along the lines of what Brad described.
“Well, sir, after we finished, I noticed Ken’s eye color change briefly, turning a light shade of green, almost white. It wasn’t a glow like in the movies or on TV, just a change in color.”
“So, we can strike possession by a Goa’uld off our list?”
Brad looked at the doctor, stunned for a second. He had no idea the doctor was a Stargate SG-1 fan!
Brad held in a chuckle but couldn’t help a brief smile at the doctor’s joke. The doctor had a very dry sense of humor, and half the time no one got his jokes or didn’t know if he was joking or serious.
“Um... Yes, sir, I believe we can.”
“This is all very interesting, Bradford. Not unexpected, but interesting. It seems Kenneth has taken a huge step on his own and is unlocking another part of himself, inside both of you in fact, which you must learn to adapt to just as you dealt with the initial changes in the past. There is no need to be concerned, but there are precautions. The next time Kenneth can come in with you, I would like to have a discussion with you both. Until then, explore this new technique as you see fit, as long as it is under the protection of your home or here in the laboratory.”
“Thank you, sir. It’s a relief to know this isn’t unexpected. What about the side effects on me? I’m still pretty charged up, and usually my benefits would have dissipated by now.”
“In the future, after coupling with Kenneth and employing this ability, the benefits to you will strengthen even more and last longer. The negative side effects were most likely a one-time occurrence. Additional training might be necessary for you to cope with the changes. There is a reason for the increase in strength and duration in you as part of your pairing with Kenneth and your role in supporting him physically and emotionally. I will explain more when we sit down together. The only thing I ask is please do not mention this to the others just yet. They may not be ready for this step, and I do not wish to cause them undue alarm or anxiety.”
“Of course, sir. I understand. I’ll make sure Ken doesn’t inadvertently spill the beans.”
<><><>
Pulling out of the driveway, Ken headed to the office where he and his buddies ran a private security firm. Initially, they all wanted to go their separate ways thinking it would be safer, but Dr. Thomas insisted they stay together, telling them as long as they maintained a low profile everything should be fine. The few members of the US Government that ever knew their team existed thought them dead, and after eighteen years, most of them were likely retired or passed away.
The doctor worked some technological voodoo erasing all records of them, even pictures and paper files, making them virtually disappear, and none of the men had any family they were aware of, which was a requirement of the program as part of the selection process.
Calling the office to check in for the night’s job, Ken pushed the phone button on the steering wheel of his Explorer and said, “Call Sally.” A few seconds later the phone rang through the cabin speakers, and Sally picked up on the second ring.
“TGH Securities, how may I help you?”
“Hey, Sally, it’s Ken. I’m headin’ downtown now. Do I need ‘ta stop by the office for anythin’ before I head ‘ta the hotel?”
“Hi, Ken! I forgot you were filling in for Kevin tonight. How are you, honey?”
“I’m actually doin’ pretty fuckin’ fantastic.”
“Well, we both know what that means. Is Brad home recovering?”
Laughing loudly, Ken said, “Yeah, I think I wore him out. We tried somethin’ new, and it was over the top. Best. Sex. Ever.”
“Well, it’s nice to know someone’s having a good time. I wish I could say that.”
“Never fear, sweetie, your prince charmin’s out there somewhere!”
“Well, tell him to get a move on! I’m tired of waiting. Don’t you have any straight friends as good looking as you and Brad you could hook me up with?”
“Sorry, sugar.”
“Story of my life. Oh well, back to tonight’s job. There’s no reason to come by unless you want to stop in and see me. I’ll email you everything you need for tonight.”
“As much as I’d love ‘ta come by, I’m runnin’ on a tight schedule, so I’d better not push it.”
“I think the only thing tight about you right now are those fine black slacks I know you’re wearing to cover that sweet tush. I’m getting flushed just thinking about that hot derrière of yours.”
An image of Sally fanning her face popped in his head and Ken smiled to himself. All the guys loved Sally; she was a godsend and kept the company running while they were out in the field. She knew they were gay but flirted with them in fun. Ken’s phone buzzed as he received her email.
“I know I’ve said this a thousand times Sally, but thanks for puttin’ up with all our shit, and keepin’ us straight... well, you know what I mean. I just got your email and should be set. I’ll call if I need ‘ta clarify anythin’.”
“Alright, Ken. Take care of yourself tonight. I know the type of crowd you’ll be in, and there just might be some stray hands trying to cop a feel. These types of events can turn violent when it gets late after everyone is either drunk or high.”
“I will. Don’t worry about me, hun. I’ll check in tomorrow ‘ta go over the billin’ information.”
“Alright, Ken. Have a good night.”
Twenty minutes later, Ken pulled up at the valet parking of the downtown Atlanta Hilton. Checking in with security he got everything situated, and set his earpiece to monitor the hotel frequency.
His client that evening was a young up-and-coming rapper Ken had never heard of named Lil’B, who managed nearly overnight success. Ken was born in the 1960s and preferred music from the ’70s and ’80s. Rap and Hip Hop weren’t a part of his generation, and he personally didn’t care for those styles of music. He also didn’t care for the culture of violence present where most rappers performed. Someone always managed to sneak a gun past hotel security, and once the drinking and drugs started, managed to get insulted and feel the need to demand respect at gunpoint.
While waiting for his client to arrive, Ken went to find a bathroom and check his appearance. Looking in the mirror, he had to admit he looked intimidating. Black suit, white shirt, classic tie, and the aviator sunglasses topping it all off. He couldn’t look more like a G-Man if he tried, which suited his purposes just fine.
Smelling his cologne, Brad’s favorite, made him miss his partner. He wished Brad was on assignment with him, but the client designated only one security person for the night's job.
His client was an hour late, but Ken’s duties didn’t start until the limo pulled up to the front door, so he milled about the lobby and gift shop while he waited. While in the gift shop, on a whim, he bought a card for Brad to let him know how much he loved him. It was sappy and out of character for him, but for some reason he was missing Brad more than usual.
Once the limo arrived, Ken moved to the door and introduced himself to the driver, showing his ID. The limo driver opened the rear door and stood aside, letting Ken help the young woman out. Leaning over, Ken took her hand and introduced himself.
“Good evenin’, Ma’am. My name’s Ken Habersham, and I’ll be your security escort this evenin’. Please try ‘ta stay close to me at all times for your protection.”
The young woman lowered her glasses to the end of her nose and looked Ken up and down, saying, “Mmmm mmmm mmmm dayumm, you are fine! I won’t have any trouble stayin’ close to that ass.”
After working for many performers over the years, some quite famous, Ken saw through her bravado, reading her body language. The front she put on for her fans he found annoying, but underneath it all was a nice young lady Ken quickly took a liking to.
Her entourage was huge, and with so many people there was no way everyone could go clubbing, so the after-concert party stayed in the Hotel. With the number of people, the Event Manager ended up opening three additional suites adjacent to the main party, and the evening went smoothly until 0100 when a commotion in the hallway outside the main suite indicated trouble. He hoped hotel security could handle whatever was happening but was prepared to intervene. He would only have to deal with the problem if it came into the room and involved his client.
Chatter over his earpiece told Ken the situation was rapidly escalating, and just as he heard, “I’m gonna need some help….!” Someone in the hallway shouted, “Lil’B, get ‘yo bitch ass out here!”
Ken leaned over and asked his client, “Ma’am, do you know that man yellin’ out in the hallway?”
Her body language told Ken she was terrified even before she answered his question.
“He’s my ex. Thinks he owns me and says I owe him money from my music.”
“Okay, Ma’am. There’s nothin’ ‘ta worry about. I’m gonna take care of this before he even gets close ‘ta you. What’s his name?”
“Musab. But if you want to piss him off, his real name is Tyrone.”
Just then, the unconscious body of a hotel security guard flew into the room, hitting a large group of people and knocking them down. There was blood on the man’s face, and drinks flew everywhere. Lil’B squealed loudly, scrambling up on the back of the big overstuffed chair she sat in. People started screaming, and a general panic ensued.
Ken watched Tyrone move into the room, along with a few friends. He was a big man, at least 6’ 5” if not taller, reasonably muscular, and his friends were of a similar size. Planting himself squarely in front of Lil’B, Ken raised his deep voice to be heard over the commotion.
“I’m sorry, Sir, but you aren’t steppin’ any closer to my client. You need ‘ta leave. Now. Consider this your only warnin’.”
“Get outta my bizness! I’m here to get what I got comin’ to me! Outta my face or…”
Ken wasn’t sure if it was a knife or a gun Tyrone went for, but it didn’t matter. Faster than anyone could see Ken’s fist connected with Tyrone’s solar plexus, forcing all the air in his lungs to vacate in the space of a few heartbeats and sending him flying across the room to land on his ass. The guys backing up Tyrone comically looked at each other and then leaped for Ken at the same time. They were quick, Ken gave them that, and moderately strong, but Ken… well, Ken was a genetically enhanced Navy SEAL, and there wasn’t a man on the planet outside his unit that could stand up to him, even all three of Tyrone’s friends together.
Two had knives, and one had a gun. Ken disarmed the one holding the gun first, shattering most, if not all, of the bones in the guy’s hand while doing so. The two with knives were on him before the gun hit the floor. To them, it felt like hitting a brick wall. Ken smirked at the surprised looks on their faces before they lost consciousness. Unfortunately, one of them ripped the sleeve of Ken’s jacket as he fell to the ground, and the other one grabbed his shirt, tearing it open and popping off most of the buttons. At least they didn’t break his aviator glasses, which would have really pissed him off.
Immediately, Ken turned to Lil’B, asking, “Ma’am, are you alright?”
She was shaking, and her eyes looked like they were about to pop out of her head, but she managed to nod a quick ‘yes.’ Ken quickly checked the unconscious security guard, who seemed to have a broken nose and some missing teeth.
That’s definitely gonna’ hurt.
He was breathing though, and that was a good thing. Activating his mic, Ken said, “Hotel security this is Ken Habersham, the security agent workin’ for the rapper in Suite 11B. You need ‘ta get some people up here, pronto. There’s been a fight, and there are four unconscious people; one of them is yours and in need of medical attention. There’s one additional perp who’s about ‘ta be unconscious.”
Tyrone still sat on the floor wheezing, trying to suck air back into his lungs. Pulling off his tie, Ken bound Tyrone’s hands securely together, and once the big man got his breath back he started shouting again.
“What the fuck?! Let me up, or I’m gonna kick ‘yo ass!”
A long string of F-bombs proceeded from his mouth, telling Ken exactly what he was going to do to him.
Ken glanced at Lil’B, who was still shaken but managed to say, “Now you see why I dumped his ass.”
Smirking, Ken gave Tyrone a solid thump, knocking him out cold. Picking up Lil’B like a baby and shielding her with his body, Ken moved them out of the room. He held her against his chest, and when she put her arms around his neck, the heat and strength of his body made her feel safe. Her shaking subsided, and by the time they arrived at the elevators, she wanted to walk on her own. When she spoke, she seemed to have lost some of her attitude.
“Damn, Ken, that was some major GI-Joe, Kung-Fu Panda shit you pulled on Tyrone and his boyz. Thanks, white boy.”
She leaned up and kissed his cheek, giving him a fiercely strong hug for such a little body. On the way down in the elevator, Ken instructed security to send her limo around, and by the time they made it to the front door of the hotel, her driver was waiting.
“Ma’am, I think you should call it a night. Tyrone might have a few other friends hangin’ around.”
“Thanks again, Ken. Sorry about your suit. At least they didn’t break those cool-ass glasses.”
Ken helped her into the limo and watched it drive off. As the limo pulled away, he noticed his reflection in the windows lining the front of the hotel. His suit was in tatters, one sleeve missing and his shirt ripped open. He realized people were staring, at first because of the torn clothing, but then to try and get a better look at his incredible body showing through. Ken was about to have the valet retrieve his Explorer and head home when he received a call over his earpiece.
“Mr. Habersham, this is hotel security. We need a statement about tonight’s incident for insurance. The police are taking statements at the side entrance by the loading dock. Please make your way there as soon as you can.”
“Alright, I’m on my way.”
“Thank you, sir.”
Ken knew he sounded irritated, but it was necessary. He was a consummate professional, but he really wanted to get home and crawl in bed with Brad. The adrenaline from the fight was still in his system, and a good fight always made him horny.
Being familiar with the hotel, Ken knew where the loading dock was located and headed that way. It was late, and the side street dark. He thought it odd the police would use that entrance, but figured they probably wanted to keep the excitement out of the lobby.
As soon as Ken turned the corner, his combat instincts told him something was wrong. The loading dock was dark, and there were no police cars. His soldier’s intuition screamed ‘ambush!’ and even as he flattened himself against the wall to lessen his exposure, three sharp points of pain hit his body, one on his arm and two on his back. Looking down, he saw a large dart sticking out of his bicep.
He tried to move back around the corner of the building, but his body wasn’t reacting fast enough, and he realized he was in trouble. His vision blurred, and he dropped to one knee, almost passing out. His mind growing fuzzier by the second, he was having trouble thinking and reacting.
A nearby voice said, “Shit, there was enough juice in those darts to drop an elephant, and he’s still awake.”
“Yeah, they said he was badass. This should finish him off so we can get him into the van.”
Pain wracked Ken’s body as multiple tasers hit him, and the last thing he heard was, “Damn, this guy weighs a fucking ton.”
He heard his aviator glasses fall off and hit the pavement, and then blackness…
