Fiction. Literature. Romance. Suspense. HTML:A Shadow Stalkers novella from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Crossfire series.

Layla Creed and Deputy US Marshal Brian Simmons have a history that is as hot and heartbreaking as it is unforgettable. Now their paths have crossed once again. This time things are twice as hot. Laylaâ??a protected witnessâ??has been persuaded to come out of hiding and testify in a sensational murder trial. But as far as Brianâ??s concerned, thereâ??s an even more pressing problem.

Once Layla testifies sheâ??ll get sucked back into the Witness Protection Program. A new identity, a new location, a new occupationâ??and a new inspector to check up on her. In other words, out of his life forever. There is one more optionâ??take Layla and go on the run. Rekindling what they once had should be easy. But a stranger in their shadow has plans of his own, forcing Brian and Layla to risk everything in the name of love.

Includes an excerpt of On Fire, another Shadow Stalkers novella.

Taking the Heat previously appeared in Men Ou