Sizzling Winter Nights: Quebec

Stephen Zane hated traveling, loathed cold, bleak hotel rooms and would just as soon never step foot on a plane again. If he had his choice, he’d be barefoot and living in a hut on the Cayman Islands, playing bartender to tourists. But life had taken an interesting turn.

Owning the most prestigious software development firm on the East Coast prevented jetting away for sheer entertainment. In the midst of developing a new game, one that would take his firm into every other country, Stephen was tasked with putting the final creative, touches in place. The concept so hush, hush, few knew what was going on behind closed doors. Competition was ferocious and betrayal happened every day in their cut throat industry.

Heading to Quebec for a short stay, Stephen hadn’t anticipated nasty weather. He quickly realized he was going to be hunkered down for an undetermined amount of time. What few knew was that Stephen needed a business partner or he was going to be forced to sell. But his secret needed to remain just that â€" at least for the time being.

Marcel Dumaine wasn’t thrilled with the idea of garnering a new business, and he certainly didn't want a partner for that matter, but the Board of Directors of his firm insisted. After all, he’d worked tirelessly for that past three years to place his highly coveted entertainment company at the forefront of innovation. He’d heard enough about Stephen’s difficult reputation to realize what he was being told to endure. When he finally met the man, Marcel was intrigued with more than just his business savvy. He could easily tell the ultra-conservative man held a secret, one he was determined to uncover. As a raging snowstorm blanketed the city, affording them time to get to know each other, sparks flew and a sizzling winter night of passion embroiled both men.

But an ugly secret remained. When the mystery unraveled, Marcel was left with a difficult decision. One that would change both men forever.