Prison or a life of luxury? Let me think… Reluctant thief Alec Tremaine would rather be behind bars than face his brothers after his first attempt at grand theft auto goes horribly wrong. Desperation had him agreeing to their crazy plan—better to be a criminal like the rest of the Tremaine clan than starve on the streets—but when they abandon him, he’s forced to face the most powerful man in the city. And given the opportunity to climb out of the gutter. Right into the bed of Xavier Ashburne. There’s only one catch. Alec isn’t quite up to Xavier’s standards. Not yet. His head of security, Luther Cross, the only man Xavier considers his equal, sees something in Alec worth more than anyone ever has. Bound by the rules of his unique relationship with the temperamental millionaire, Luther’s training could decide Alec’s entire future. But giving in to temptation could destroy it. Alec’s value is in what he must become. Sensual. Submissive. And… Polished.

Everything has a price. Self-made millionaire Xavier Ashburne has never stopped fighting for control. Money and power gave him some, but there’s still so much uncertainty neither can overcome. When his longtime lover and partner, Luther Cross, leaves on a trip to reconnect with his brother, Xavier is left to manage their business and household alone. He’d never realized how much he relied on his man—especially when it comes to their shared submissive, Alexander Tremaine. As a reformed thief, Alexander came into Xavier’s life in the most unconventional fashion, but before too long, stole his way into Xavier’s heart. And now that he’s there, Xavier needs the control he’s won to keep him safe and happy. But when Xavier’s past comes back to haunt them, all the riches in the world won’t be enough. Money is worthless. Power merely existence painted in gold. Gilded.