Rags to Riches: Part Two Box Set

By T.A. Chase

The Rags to Riches series: Part Two

Anywhere Tequila Flows

Two men convinced they'll never find love discover it in the least likely of places.

Sidney Richardson has watched his two best friends fall in love, leaving him to wonder if he'll ever find the right man for him. Sure, he's been playing the field since he discovered sex, but he's never taken a chance on one of those one-night stands to see if there might be more. Now he's ready, but is the man he's waiting on ready as well?

Tito Perez has had a rough go of it, but he's finally in a good place in his life. He's got a great job and a group of marvellous friends. Who cares that he doesn't have that one special guy in his life? Some people just aren't meant to fall in love.

Then a chance meeting between boss and employee gives Sidney and Tito an opportunity to put their hopes and dreams into action. Will love flow as easily as the tequila Tito pours?

Walking in the Rain

Sometimes fate brings us the right person to make our world perfect.

Dayton VanHooren is a United States senator who doesn't really like his job. He's been too busy to date, much less pick anyone up for sex. Being openly gay means he doesn't have to worry about scandal, but he's looking for something more than a good time.

Mickey O'Leary can barely think, he's so exhausted. Working three jobs to help pay his brother's hospital bills keeps him going and helps him forget about how lonely he is. Mickey would like to meet a nice guy who won't run at the first hint of Mickey's problems.

A wedding reception and a thunderstorm are catalysts to bring these two men together. What can they do when they discover the perfect man for them but fall in love?

Barefoot Dancing

A moment in time can be the most pivotal one in our lives.

Kendall VanHooren is happy with his life. He works as a corporate lawyer in his father's firm and does as he wishes on the weekends. He used to be a partier, but as he's matured, he's settled down and figured out that sometimes quiet is a good thing.

George Bowie is working a minimum wage job, which is barely keeping him off the streets most days. He lost his job in the banking crisis and has learned the hard way that pride has no place when it comes to survival.

Dancing barefoot on the beach might seem an odd thing to do, but it brings two men together at just the right moment for their worlds to collide.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Pride Publishing
• Release date: May 28, 2019
• ISBN: 9781786517982

T.A. Chase

There is beauty in every kind of love, so why not live a life without boundaries? Experiencing everything the world offers fascinates TA and writing about the things that make each of us unique is how she shares those insights. When not writing, TA's watching movies, reading and living life to the fullest.

Book preview

Pride Publishing books by T.A. Chase

Single Books

Out of Light into Darkness

From Slavery to Freedom

The Vanguard

Two for One

Where the Devil Dances

Stealing Life

Hearts on the Line

Voice for the Silent

Threadbare Gypsy Souls

Always Ready

The Four Horsemen

Pestilence

War

Famine

Death

Peace

The Beasor Chronicles

Gypsies

Tramps

Home

No Going Home

Home of His Own

Wishing for a Home

Leaving Home

Home Sweet Home

Every Shattered Dream

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

Part Four

Part Five

Rags to Riches

Remove the Empty Spaces

Close the Distance

Following His Footsteps

Anywhere Tequila Flows

Walking in the Rain

Barefoot Dancing

Delarosa Secrets

Borderline

Snap Decision

Cold Truth

Merging Violently

Fall into My Kiss

The Blood and Thorn Ranch

Bulls and Blood

Anthologies

Unconventional at Best: Ninja Cupcakes

Unconventional in Atlanta: His Last Client

An Unconventional Chicago: No Bravery

Unconventional in San Diego: The Unicorn Said Yes

Unconventional in Kansas City: New Vocations

Aim High: Possibilities

Collections

What’s his Passion?: Mountains to Climb

What’s his Passion?: Climbing the Savage Mountain

RAGS TO RICHES:

PART TWO

Anywhere Tequila Flows

Walking in the Rain

Barefoot Dancing

T.A. CHASE

Rags to Riches: Part Two

ISBN # 978-1-78651-798-2

©Copyright T.A. Chase 2014

Cover Art by Posh Gosh ©Copyright June 2014

Interior text design by Claire Siemaszkiewicz

Pride Publishing

This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Pride Publishing.

Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Pride Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution.

The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork.

Published in 2019 by Pride Publishing, United Kingdom.

No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the authors’ rights. Purchase only authorised copies.

Pride Publishing is an imprint of Totally Entwined Group Limited.

If you purchased this book without a cover you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as unsold and destroyed to the publisher and neither the author nor the publisher has received any payment for this stripped book.

ANYWHERE TEQUILA FLOWS

Book four in the

Rags to Riches series

Two men convinced they’ll never find love discover it in the least likely of places.

Sidney Richardson has watched his two best friends fall in love, leaving him to wonder if he’ll ever find the right man for him. Sure, he’s been playing the field since he discovered sex, but he’s never taken a chance on one of those one-night stands to see if there might be more. Now he’s ready, but is the man he’s waiting on ready as well?

Tito Perez has had a rough go of it, but he’s finally in a good place in his life. He’s got a great job and a group of marvelous friends. Who cares that he doesn’t have that one special guy in his life? Some people just aren’t meant to fall in love.

Then a chance meeting between boss and employee gives Sidney and Tito an opportunity to put their hopes and dreams into action. Will love flow as easily as the tequila Tito pours?

Dedication

Humans are social creatures for the most part. No matter how much we say we like to be alone, we don’t. Love has a way of proving the theory of solitude wrong.

Trademark Acknowledgements

The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction:

Patrón: The Patrón Spirits Company

Stella Artois: Anheuser-Busch InBev N.V.

Cristal: Louis Roederer

Harley: Harley-Davidson Inc

Versace: Gianni Versace S.p.A. 

Dior: Christian Dior S.A.

Jaguar XKR-S: Jaguar Land Rover Automotive PLC

Chapter One

Kiss. Kiss. Kiss.

The chant filled the air at the wedding reception of Adrien Bellamy and Ion Vasile. Sidney, Adrien’s best man, laughed with the rest of the guests when Adrien wrapped his arms around Ion before dipping him to place a kiss on his husband’s mouth.

Shaking his head and smiling, Sidney approached one of the bars. He’d never had so much fun at a wedding before, but seeing how much Adrien and Ion were enjoying theirs made Sidney happy. He found a spot at the oak bar top.

I need a shot of Patrón and a Stella Artois, he said before looking up to meet the gaze of the bartender. Astonishment dashed through him when he saw Tito, his employee from Wander, staring back at him. What the hell are you doing here? he asked.

Tito frowned while he got Sidney’s drinks. I’m pouring liquor for rich SOBs, he muttered.

As much as Sidney didn’t like Tito’s tone, he had to admit the man had a point. A majority of the guests were rich and quite a few of them were arseholes.

"I can see that, but what are you doing here?" He gestured to include the entire backyard of the Bellamy’s Hampton estate.

Mr Gaverson asked if I’d like to earn some extra cash. I wasn’t on the schedule at the club, so I told him I’d bartend. Tito set the shot and the beer in front of Sidney. Not my usual thing, but every little bit helps.

True. Sidney pulled out his money then stuck a five-dollar bill in the tip jar. Thanks, he said, stuffing his clip back in his pocket before grabbing his drinks to leave.

As he wound his way through the crowd, Sidney could see why this wouldn’t be Tito’s usual thing. A society wedding full of rich blue bloods dressed in designer clothes while drinking thousand dollar champagne really wasn’t a place where a guy like Tito hung out.

Sidney dropped into his chair at the head table. He slammed back the tequila, hissing as it burned on the way down. He swore under his breath.

Are you all right? Winston asked, a hint of concern in his voice.

I’m fine. Did Patrick tell you he was getting my bartender to pour drinks?

Winston blinked at the rather odd question. Your bartender?

Yes. Tito from my club. Sidney pointed in Tito’s direction.

His friend glanced over at the man then chuckled. I didn’t recognize him. I’m not sure the outfit suits him.

Sidney silently agreed with Winston. The long-sleeved white dress shirt Tito wore hugged those broad shoulders, hinting at the muscle hidden under the fabric. But the shirt also hid all those marvelous tattoos Tito had decorating his upper body. Sidney didn’t know if Tito had any on his legs, having never seen the man completely naked.

There were times when Tito would wear a leather vest while working at Wander and it was then that Sidney had found himself wondering what other art Tito had. Of course, Sidney would never let on to anyone how just the sight of Tito’s body modifications got him hard. No one needed to know how often Sidney jerked off to the fantasy of running his tongue over every tattoo while playing with Tito’s gold nipple rings.

Tito glanced in his direction as though he knew Sidney was thinking about him. Sidney looked away, hoping the distance between them was enough to keep Tito from seeing the lust Sidney knew had to be shining in his eyes.

Winston laughed softly beside him. Why don’t you just admit you want the man?

Admitting it isn’t the problem, he confessed.

Then what is the problem? You want him and if I’m reading the signals right, he certainly wouldn’t mind spending time with you. Winston sipped his club soda while staring at Sidney, obviously waiting for an answer.

He works for me, Winston. I don’t want to take advantage of his needing the job. He didn’t want to tell all of Tito’s secrets, but felt he needed to explain a little more. He did time in prison. Served his full sentence, but he had a difficult time finding employment because of his record. I’d never want to make a move and have him feel like he had to sleep with me to keep his job.

Hmm… I can see your dilemma. Maybe if you talk to him about it, you can convince him that his job isn’t contingent on him fucking the boss.

It always came as a shock when his friend swore in his crisp, upper crust British accent. Sidney shook his head. He didn’t want to discuss his non-existent relationship with Tito.

How are things going between you and Patrick?

The sappy grin on Winston’s face clued Sidney in on the course of his friend’s love life.

Patrick agreed to move to London. He’s flying back with me on Monday.

Sidney chuckled as he slapped Winston on the back. Congratulations, man. That’s great news. I’m sure we’ll be celebrating another wedding soon.

Winston held up his hand. No. We want to wait for a while. We fell in love quickly, but unlike Adrien and Ion, we’re not ready for marriage.

Not everyone is. Hell, you might decide to never get married, but luckily you have the option in England now.

Winston glanced around and Sidney knew he was looking for Patrick.

I think he went inside, he told him.

Thanks. Will we be seeing you tomorrow for brunch? Adrien and Ion wanted to see us all before they left on their honeymoon.

Sidney held up his drink in a salute. I’ll be there.

See you later then, Winston said before he stood then wandered off.

Sidney swallowed his sigh. His life was changing, whether he wanted it to or not. His two best friends were settling down, leaving Sidney spending more time on his own.

Hello, Sidney.

He looked up to find Dayton Van Hooven to his right. After standing, Sidney offered his hand. Hello, Senator. It’s been a while since I’ve seen you in this neck of the woods.

Dayton grimaced. You would think with all the vacations and breaks we take in DC, I’d be able to get back home more often. There always seems to be another bill that needs to be researched or written.

Rough life sometimes, huh?

No one could pay Sidney enough to be part of Congress. No matter what Dayton did, someone wasn’t going to be happy.

I shouldn’t complain, should I? I mean, I was the one who ran for this seat. Dayton waved to someone in the milling crowd. Looks like my father wants to introduce me to someone. If you’re ever in DC, Sidney, call me. We’ll have dinner and catch up.

He watched the junior senator for New York stroll away before he decided to go get another drink. He considered going to the other bar, but it was on the far side of the garden. If anyone noticed, it would be plain that he’d done it to avoid Tito.

Man up, asshole, he muttered and the waiter who was clearing the table next to him shot him a questioning glance.

Sorry. Just talking to myself, he explained as he set his empty glass on the guy’s tray.

Okay, sir.

Sidney straightened his shoulders and stalked over to the bar. Just as he got there, Tito’s deep laugh echoed over the noise of the mingling socialites. Sidney’s cock stiffened almost to the point of pain. He cringed, wishing he could adjust himself to ensure his zipper wasn’t going to make permanent tracks on his shaft.

Want something?

Sidney met Tito’s knowing gaze and blushed. What the hell? He hadn’t blushed since he’d been a pre-teen getting his first look at a naked woman.

Another Stella and a shot, he ordered, not thrilled at how gauche Tito made him feel.

Is that all? With a slight smirk, Tito dropped his gaze to the bulge in Sidney’s slacks.

Sidney fought the urge to cover his groin with his hands as though he were a virgin again. Yes. Just the beer and the tequila.

Tito shrugged as he poured. You’re not driving back to the city tonight, are you?

Slightly surprised by the question, Sidney tried to figure out if there was a hidden meaning behind it. No. I’m staying here. Robert and Alyssa keep a suite available for me. He gestured at the large mansion behind him.

A fucking suite, Tito mumbled then grunted as he set the drinks in front of Sidney, who had a thought hit him.

Do you need a ride back?

No. I have my bike here. I was just making sure you wouldn’t be driving drunk or anything like that. Tito took a tray of dirty glasses from one of the waitresses before carrying them over to a sink full of suds.

This particular bar was actually a permanent one Robert had had built at the end of the patio for entertaining. Sidney had spent many summer nights mixing drinks for friends where Tito stood.

Another thought struck him. It was only after he had asked the question that he wondered why he had. He usually left the happiness of his employees to his managers, yet he discovered he wanted Tito to be happy working for him.

Why do you ask? Tito wanted to demand Sidney tell him, but rich guys like his boss didn’t like it when ex-cons like him demanded. So Tito kept his tone polite as he washed some of the glasses.

It just struck me that I really wanted you to be happy working at Wander. I mean, I’m sure you probably have loftier aspirations, but you’re one of the best bartenders I’ve ever seen. Sidney paused to chuckle then continued, Trust me, I’ve seen a lot of them all over the world.

Pride swelled in Tito’s chest, though he kept it from showing on his face. He liked hearing he was doing a good job. He hadn’t heard a lot of that while he was in prison. After drying the glass, he set it next to the others before he turned to look at Sidney.

I enjoy working at the club. Don’t have any complaints about the people or the hours. Hell, even the money’s better than I’d make other places unless I started stripping, and after not having any privacy for fifteen years, I’m not about to take my clothes off for strangers.

He noticed a slight tick under Sidney’s left eye and wondered what had set it off. His boss didn’t lose his cool very often, but when he did, it was as though a hurricane had torn through, blowing everything off its foundations.

I’m glad. I’d hate to have you leave, especially if you were leaving to go work at a strip club. Some of those places can be bad news. Sidney pursed his lips as he seemed to be trying to decide what to say next. Do you need more money, Tito?

Tito started to speak but Sidney held up his hand to stop him.

The only reason I ask is because you took this job and said something about every little extra helps. I just wanted to make sure you were doing okay. You’re getting close to your year anniversary working at the club, right?

Yes. He was amazed that Sidney remembered that. He might be the owner of Wander, but he rarely interacted with the employees. He usually left that for the managers.

Sidney pulled a small tablet from his inside jacket pocket. Tito watched as he used a stylus to search through stuff until he found what he was looking for, then he wrote on the screen.

I just made a note to have Joost do your year review and we’ll discuss a raise after that. Sidney grinned as he put the electronic away.

Are you working today, Sidney? Really? I thought you promised Adrien you wouldn’t do any sort of business at his wedding.

Tito watched a beautiful, blonde older lady walk up to them. She set her wine glass on the counter.

Would you like another drink, ma’am? Tito asked, expecting to be ignored. Usually ladies like her never acknowledged he existed.

She flashed him a bright smile. What I would love is a bottle of water. Do you still have some here?

Yes, ma’am. He reached under the prep station to one of the small refrigerators there.

Alyssa, my dear, I was just making a note to have my general manager review Tito’s work over the last year. It’s time to give him a raise. Sidney motioned to him.

Tito? Alyssa wrinkled her forehead as she looked at him as well. Oh, I’m sorry. I was so busy trying to make sure the ceremony went off without a hitch that I forgot to come down and introduce myself to the staff.

Staff? Tito snorted silently to himself. Only people in her tax bracket would call someone like him staff. Yet he didn’t sense that she was looking down on him, and at least she hadn’t called him ‘the help’.

I’m Alyssa Bellamy. Adrien is my oldest son. She held out her hand to him.

Surprised, Tito wiped his hands on his pants before taking her hand in a gentle grip. She had a firm handshake, which was another point in her favor. I’m Tito Perez. Nice to meet you, and congratulations.

Thank you. We’re all so thrilled to have Ion join our family. She accepted the water he handed her. Sidney is treating you well at his club, isn’t he?

Yes, Mrs Bellamy. He’s a good boss. Tito licked his lips because really, what was he supposed to say? He doubted Alyssa really wanted to know if he was unhappy or not.

Alyssa rested her hand on Sidney’s arm. I’m not sure about a good boss, but he’s a fair one. I’m sure he’s very demanding because he gives his all to everything he does and he expects the same from everyone who works for him. That’s what makes him successful.

Tito glanced over and had to grin when he saw the blush coloring Sidney’s cheeks. Second time he’s blushed today. I never knew he could do that.

I appreciate you talking me up, Alyssa, but you don’t have to. Now I do believe you owe me a dance. Sidney offered her his arm while winking at Tito.

Alyssa’s laugh was full-bodied, causing several people to turn and look at them. Tito eased back, not wanting to catch the eye of anyone.

I must be honest with you, Sidney. I’d rather dance with Tito than you. He looks like he actually can dance without stepping on my toes.

Sidney pressed his hand to his chest. You wound me. Are you saying all those lessons my mother forced me to take didn’t do any good?

I would never say that. She turned to look at Tito. Would you dance with me? I just bought these shoes and I wish to keep them free of other shoe treads.

Tito burst out laughing and Alyssa joined him. Sidney shook his head at the both of them.

I’m going to complain to your son that you’re being mean to me. Sidney sniffed as he whirled to walk away.

Oh stop it. You know I’m just teasing. Drag me out to the dance floor, Sidney. Keep this safe for me, young man. I’ll be back for it later. Alyssa handed her water back to Tito.

Certainly. He tucked the bottle under the counter away from everything else so he didn’t grab it by accident.

He watched as Sidney and Alyssa wound their way through the wedding guests to the dance floor. Tito smiled when Sidney spun Alyssa out then drew her in. It did look like Alyssa had been joking about Sidney’s dancing ability. Sidney moved quite gracefully and Tito found himself wishing he was the one in Sidney’s arms.

Chapter Two

Tito climbed off his bike and sighed as he removed his helmet. It had been a long trip back into the city from the Hamptons. He should’ve taken Mrs Bellamy up on her offer of a room to spend the night, but he hadn’t thought he’d be able to sleep in such luxury. So he’d driven home after helping the catering company clean up.

As he walked into his apartment building, he thought about Sidney Richardson. Seeing the man hanging out with his friends while celebrating Mr Bellamy’s marriage had been an eye-opener. Tito had always had the thought that Sidney was an arrogant bastard who didn’t notice anyone who wasn’t in his own social and income bracket. Oh, he’d spotted the man eyeing him during nights he worked at the club, but there’d never been any action to make Tito think he’d lower himself to have even a quickie with Tito.

He unlocked his door then entered his place. After he had made sure to turn both locks, he hung his helmet and his jacket on the coat rack in the corner closest to the entrance. Tito looked around his apartment and a small wave of happiness swelled through him. Sure it wasn’t much—just a studio apartment with a tri-fold screen separating the bedroom from the rest of the space—but it was his and not a concrete cell in a maximum security prison.

The couch was a light tan and overstuffed. He loved sprawling across it on his days off while watching his favorite movies or sports. The kitchen was small and the appliances were out-dated, yet he was still able to create some amazing meals for friends and for himself when they weren’t available.

Just as he pushed away from the wall to go clean up then look to see what he could find in his refrigerator, someone knocked on his door. He checked through the peephole, still cautious after a year out of prison. There were members of his former gang looking for him, which was why he never went to visit his family in his old stomping grounds.

Come on, Tito. I heard you come in. Open up. I got some beer and a large pizza from that place you like two blocks from here.

Resting his forehead against the fake wood grain door, Tito flipped the locks open. Fine, Linda. Come in. I’m going to grab a shower while you get the plates and napkins. Then you can tell me what’s wrong.

He walked away, unbuttoning his shirt as he went. The door opened and shut.

Thank you, Tito, she yelled from the kitchen area.

Tito grunted, but didn’t say anything else while turning the water on. He’d heard how upset Linda was in the tremble of his friend’s voice. They’d met in prison because the corrections system didn’t care about Linda being transgendered. They’d thrown her in with the guys and she’d been ripe for the picking. She had had no way of protecting herself, so Tito had claimed her as his ‘bitch’. He’d never forced himself on her because Tito wasn’t that kind of guy, but he’d made sure all the other prisoners knew that he would punish anyone who touched Linda. They became best friends while behind bars, and when she got out a few months after he did, he got her an apartment in his building so he could keep an eye on her.

Stripping naked, he took a deep breath before stepping under the shower. He washed up as fast as he could then got out. She had seen him naked before, so he wandered out to the bedroom side of his apartment because he’d forgotten to grab clean clothes.

While pulling on sweats and a T-shirt, he called out. What happened today?

Nothing. It’s stupid. I’m just overreacting, Linda babbled from the living area. I just wanted to see you.

Well, I’m glad you brought food and beer. I need to go shopping tomorrow. You busy or can you go with me? He walked around the screen and stopped in his tracks when he saw her up close. What the fuck happened, sweetheart?

She sported a large purple bruise along her cheek and a split lip that he hadn’t noticed because she’d been looking away from the door when he had looked out. Tito went to cup her face in his hands, but stopped before he touched her because he didn’t want to bring her more pain.

Did you go to the clinic to get checked out? Are there any other injuries?

No. She wrapped her arms around his waist. There’s no point in going to the clinic. It’s just superficial.

That’s bullshit, honey. They might not have broken any bones, but they hurt you. He rested his cheek against the top of her head. Were you out hooking again?

She stiffened in his embrace, but he wouldn’t let her pull away. I have to pay rent and get food. I don’t have any other way for doing it. I can’t get a job.

Tito eased her a few inches away from him to look down into her eyes. Would you go to a job interview if I can get you one? It would be at the club I work at.

No one’s going to hire me, Tito. Not when they find out that I’m really Larry and I was born a guy. That tends to be more of a deal breaker than the fact that I spent a little time in prison. She’d gone through it before and he had been there to give her a shoulder to cry on.

They hired me, even though I spent fifteen years in jail. I don’t think they’ll have a problem with that. He hesitated before saying, And I don’t think the transgender thing will be an issue. I’ll talk to my boss about it on Monday when I go in.

Linda took a deep breath and Tito swiped his thumb under her eye to catch a tear.

Do you need money for rent or food? Because you know I’ll give you what you need. If it makes you feel better, you can pay me back when you get a job, but not from hooking. That’s why you get beat up, honey. Most of the men you approach aren’t going to be happy to find out you’re not the anatomically correct beautiful woman they think you are. Tito kissed her forehead. I don’t want you to be hurt anymore, Linda.

I know, and yes, I actually need this month’s rent. Maybe I could go to the store with you tomorrow. She wrinkled her nose, making Tito chuckle, though he knew it wasn’t funny to her.

He tapped his finger to her nose. Of course you’re welcome to come with me to the store. Now let’s eat and I’ll tell you all about the big society wedding I worked today.

They settled down on his couch, one at each end with plates filled with pizza and a beer each. She asked him questions about what the ladies were wearing and the food. He tried to remember and describe them with the best detail he could.

It was a gay wedding? She shook her head. It wasn’t that long ago when they would’ve been shunned instead of accepted.

True, but something tells me no one would dare deny Adrien Bellamy. Not just because of his money. I met his mother and she’s a force of nature. He grinned as he remembered her teasing Sidney. I think my boss has been friends with Mr Bellamy since they were kids, because they certainly act like family.

Linda sighed. It must be nice to have people love you no matter what.

Tito set his plate down on the coffee table then took hers away to place next to his. After he wrapped his arm around her shoulder, she snuggled close to him.

"We have each other, plus Wu and Malala and all our