“I think you’re beginning to make an equestrian out of me,” Zack said. He turned to his computer and quickly googled a list of horse vocabulary. When he was satisfied he could use a few of them in conversation, he said, “I can imagine the whole scenario in such detail that it feels like a memory. You’d come in after a day of riding, slightly out of breath and leading a beautiful horse. I’d rush forward to take the reins while you pull off your helmet. I’d start on the horse tack then: removing the saddle, bit, and bridle.”

“And where did you learn those terms?”

“What do you mean, sir? I’ve been your groom since we were boys. Of course I know how to care for your horse.”

John moaned softly like he’d just tasted something delicious and replied, “Then carry on. And be sure to finish mucking out the stalls.”

“Yes, sir,” Zack said, his tone dripping with obedience. “Right away.”

“In fact,” John said, “I’m going to stay here and watch you. I want to make sure it’s done properly.”

“But, sir, I couldn’t keep you. Your parents are expecting you back at the house.”

“My parents can wait. This is important. Besides, if you take too long, I’m sure they’ll send someone to look for me.”

“Sir,” Zack said quietly, “the staff aren’t supposed to consort with members of the house.”

“Well,” John said in a dangerous voice, “it’ll just have to be our little secret then.”

Zack squirmed in his chair. God, that was hot. His already tight pants suddenly had no room in them at all.

“I turn away and begin to do as you say,” Zack said. His voice trembled with a mixture of nerves and desire. “I can feel your eyes on me as I move, though I don’t dare look back at you. I grab a rake and begin to remove the old straw from your horse’s stall, concentrating on the feel of it in my hand. No matter how hard I try to force myself to focus, all I can think about is you. The air between us is charged, like it’s waiting for something to happen.”

“I can see how tense you are,” John joined in seamlessly. “You’re avoiding looking at me, and it irritates me. I move closer, telling myself that I’m getting a better look at what you’re doing. Really, I’m getting a better look at you. You’re . . . gorgeous.” John breathed the final word out like it was a secret he wanted only Zack to hear.

Zack felt dizzy all of a sudden.