"We could meet at Sparks again," Paul said low. "Find that lovely dark corner. Release that steam again. I'm willing to break one of my rules if you're willing to bend yours."

"Your rules?"

"I don't fuck within a hundred miles of my house."

Ace blinked. "That's ... specific."

"It's good policy," Paul shrugged. "I take the right kind of vacations when I can, or weekend road trips if vacation is too far off. Gets the job done."

"Helps you hide who you are," Ace translated.

"Helps me be who I am, on my terms," Paul returned.

Ace snorted, clearly not buying it. "Thanks for the oh-so generous offer, but...