Luke Barnes is working his dream job as a publicist at a company called True Star. When his boss, Penny, reveals they need a huge client or she will have to close down the company, he willingly takes on the challenge—but not before going on an online date. Imagine his surprise when a famous movie star (and the guy he used to go to school with) is sitting there.
Ezra Holding knows it’s wrong to catfish but give him a break. How is he supposed to meet someone the normal way? All they seem interested in is his movies and fame. When he sees Luke, he can’t believe his luck, and he vows to make it up to him.
As the newly signed client of True Star, Ezra and Luke spend more time together, and they can’t help the sparks that fly…
Be Warned: m/m sex
Excerpt:
“Hey, wait!”
Luke turned around to see Ezra sprinting towards him. “So, this is a bit of a surprise.”
“You can say that again.” Luke adjusted the scarf.
Ezra smiled but didn’t mention it. “I thought you said you worked in marketing.”
Oh, he’s mad at me for bending the truth?
“Marketing isn’t that much of a stretch from publicity,” he said. “Unlike saying you’re a regular guy, a Kevin, but instead you’re a big Hollywood star.” He was being way too defensive. Stop, calm down. Go get that fresh air.
Luke took a deep breath and, before Ezra had a chance to reply, said, “Want to walk in the gardens with me? I need a little air.”
“Sure.” Ezra smiled. Luke’s heart fluttered. Ezra had the perfect smile. Figures.
They walked in easy silence for a few minutes, taking in the sights. The lush green of the perfectly-mowed grass, the ancient statues, the vast array of flowers, with Luke’s eyes drawn to the snowdrops that framed much of the gardens like the frame of a painting.
“Oh wow,” Ezra breathed.
“You must see the most incredible places all the time,” Luke countered.
“Mmm, not really. I get to do a lot of traveling I suppose, but I’m always working so I don’t get the downtime to explore much.”
“I prefer to stay in town. I’m not really much of an adventurer.”
“Homebody, huh? I do love our hometown, you know. Don’t go thinking I don’t. I just haven’t had the time to visit much,” said Ezra as he stroked a flower with a smile. “Besides, I walked past your place the other day, and I’m pretty sure your garden is just as immaculate as this one.”
Luke flushed at the compliment. “Thanks, I try.” The thought of Erza being so close to his house made his palms sweat.
They came to a small fountain. There stood a statue of Cupid with his bow and arrow. He smiled down upon them.
“Okay, can we just break the ice? We are standing in front of the God of Love, for fuck’s sake.”
Luke’s heart beat a little faster. This was the first time he’d heard Ezra sound so defensive and strong. He liked it.
Ezra placed his hands on his shoulders so that they faced each other. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done it, and I’m sorry. Do you think you can forgive me, and we can move on from this?”
Ezra’s hands were still on his shoulders. Luke nodded. His words seemed to have temporarily left him. Besides, what did he mean? Move on and be friends? Never speak again? Try again? Go out on a date?
