Stranded Spirits

Easton Thomas, a handsome and wealthy man with a generous heart, owns an historic mansion on Florida's Gold Coast, a house filled with spirits and secrets from the past. When a hurricane grounds all flights and cruise ship connections, Easton invites a group of stranded passengers to ride out the storm at his mansion. He is drawn to Randy, a shy and insecure man from Atlanta, but Mitchell, Easton's longtime companion and estate manager, is far from pleased, and has different plans for Easton.

Excerpt:
Mitchell buttoned his shirt and made his way to the center railing overlooking the downstairs entry. "Easton, is that you?" He could see what looked like a crowd gathered near the front entry casually dropping suitcases and bags. "Did you pick up a tour bus before your cruise?" he asked sarcastically, trying to contain his anger. "Easton, a word please. This is a bad time to have a house full of guests. These people are not stray cats that you found on the highway. They are adults caught up in the same shitty mess as the rest of South Florida, so why do you feel responsible for them?" Mitchell hissed.

"I guess for the same reason I have always felt responsible for you," Easton smiled, and his eyes glowed in the soft light. He took Mitchell in his arms and kissed him. "We have an ample supply of backup candles and flashlights in the cellar closet. Do you mind bringing them upstairs in case we lose power? I will move the cars to the garage. I don't want them damaged," Easton said.

"Let me do that," Mitchell volunteered as he thought about the secret apartment over the garage. There was no need to take any unnecessary chances.

Mitchell opened the door and headed out into the fierce wind and rain. He secured the vehicles, closed the garage door, and started up the side stairs to the second floor. He reached the door to the apartment that had initially served as the living quarters for the chauffeurs, stepped inside, and closed the door. "Where are you?" Mitchell whispered.

He saw the shadow emerge cautiously from the adjacent room. "I'm here. I was beginning to worry. I considered leaving, but I wouldn't make it very far in this weather. Why did Easton come back? I thought he would be away for a couple of weeks."

"It's this storm. The flights are grounded and he brought a group of stranded passengers with him to ride out the storm. You will have to stay here until it's clear to leave."

"How can I do that? There is no food here, and I cannot get cell service. Maybe we should let Easton know I'm here."

"Absolutely not! Easton made it clear that you were not to come back here. I have no intention of being out on the street on my ass at this time in my life. I have too much to lose. I'll bring you coffee and food before everyone wakes in the morning, so just take it easy." Mitchell leaned in and kissed him. "Goodnight, and try to be patient."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," he grumbled.