Lea Coll's Blog, page 3

New Release

Sebastian & Hanna

Sebastian is raising is daughter, Ember on his own. Ember's mother pops in and out of their lives on a whim so Sebastian is determined to create a steady and predictable life for her. He's always liked his best friend, Hanna but he doesn't want to risk their relationship. When Hanna's lease is up and she can't find an affordable apartment, he asks her to move in with him. It's finally his time to make his move. What he doesn't expect is that Hanna's New Year's Resolution is to start dating again. When she offers herself up as a bachelorette for the Monroe Farm Bachelorette Auction, Sebastian worries he just ran out of time.

Here's what early readers are saying:

★★★★★ "Step into the captivating world of the Monroe Brothers series and prepare to be swept away from the very first page. In "Trusting Forever," Lea Coll introduces us to yet another enchanting couple, whose journey from best friends to lovers will warm your heart and leave you utterly spellbound." - World of Books 65

★★★★★ "A sweet, friends to lovers, single dad romance that is beautifully written and impossible to put down!" - Kelchickbooklover

★★★★★ "Another fantastic book in the Monroe Brothers series! I love getting taken back to the quaint tree farm that has all the Christmas magic. A story filled with love, family and romance into this picturesque Christmas Tree Farm that you will want to visit yourself." - Jill, Goodreads Reviewer

Trusting Forever is LIVE!!!

Sebastian and I have been best friends forever. He knows everything about me, except that I’ve secretly crushed on him for years. When Sebastian finds himself without a nanny over the holidays, he makes me an offer I can’t refuse. Move into his cabin on the family’s Christmas tree farm and be a nanny to his little girl.

I’d love to step out of the friend-zone and into his arms, but it’s time I accepted that Sebastian will always look at me as his faithful friend. Determined to change my single status (and tired of the pitying comments from our families), I jump at the opportunity to participate in the Christmas tree farm’s bachelorette auction. I might not find Mr. Forever, but I might just find Mr. Fun-For-The-Holidays instead.

Imagine my surprise when Sebastian outbids everyone to win a date with me. I would’ve considered it a pity date, until I arrive at the ice-rink covered with fairy lights and enough mistletoe to make even Scrooge a romantic. I’m swept out of the friend-zone and into a hot and steamy night with my best friend.​

Just when I’m sure that my Christmas wish has been granted and Sebastian and his daughter start to feel like family, his ex shows up threatening to destroy everything we’ve built.

Will he choose me, or will I be pushed back into the friend-zone?

New Release

As I read through the reviews for Reviving Hearts and all of the Monroe Brothers books, the thing I read again and again is that everyone love the Monroe brothers. They adore their camaraderie, the brotherly teasing, love, and support they have for each other. Everything revolves around taking care of their mother. These men have all built their cabins and life on the Monroe family Christmas tree farm. They may have forgotten the magic of the holidays, but these women remind them of what they've been missing. Each book gives you the Hallmark feels, that warm and fuzzy feeling that stays with you for days after reading.

Marley and Heath's story has everything you love:

A Secret Relationship in High School

A Heart-Wrenching Break-Up

Marley Inherits her Grandmother's Inn

Her ex, Heath is the Contractor

Second Chance Romance

Childhood Crush

Brother's Best Friend

The Magic of the Holidays

It's never too late...

★★★★★ " Lea Coll brought Reviving Hearts to life in all its heart-pounding glory! A wonderful second chance, brothers best friend romance that is once again set against the backdrop of the Monroe Christmas Tree Farm. We get front rows seats to see the next Monroe brother find his HEA at last with the one girl he never forgot, Marley, whose heart he broke years ago. Lea Coll always delivers great swoon-worthy HEA!"

★★★★★ "Another Monroe brother falls…and falls hard! This second chance at love was a page turner from page one." - Reading in the Red Room

★★★★★ "Once again, the Monroe Christmas Tree Farm spins its magical web and helps bring Heath and Marley together in this fun story! This is a book about second chances, love, loyalty and family and will make you fall in love with the Monroe boys just that little bit more." - Pauline, Goodreads Reviewer

This Christmas, I’d better not fall in love with my brother’s best friend… again.

A long time ago I fell in love with my brother’s best friend, Heath. We kept our relationship a secret, knowing my brother would never approve. I had faith that in time we would come clean and declare our love to the world, but Heath broke things off before that could ever happen. I fled from my hometown and vowed never to return.

Now I’ve inherited my grandmother’s Inn and I have no choice but to go back. It’s not as simple as just selling the property, it needs to be renovated first. When the realtor said he knew just the guy, I never suspected it would be Heath. The moment he steps back into my life, I can’t deny that the attraction is even greater than it was all those years ago.

While renovating the Inn, Heath is determined to remind me of everything I loved about my grandmother’s property and his family’s Christmas tree farm. Nothing has ever felt more like home, than when I’m with Heath. Could these feelings be real or is it the magic of the holidays fooling me into falling in love with Heath again?

Binge Read the Series

New Release - True Love Can't Be Denied

I'm so excited for you to read Kylie and Tyler's story! It's a best friend's younger sister/brother's best friend second chance small town romance.

Kylie's family owns the Wilde Ski Resort, and her four older brothers got into a lot of trouble when they were younger. Kylie used to sneak out to get in on the fun until the night she broke her arm, and Tyler carried her home. That night, a bond was forged, and only deepened when they grew older and played hide and seek in the lodge.

It all culminated one night, when they were hiding in the same hotel room. Secrets were revealed and lines crossed. Then Tyler left without a note, or a text. He never wanted to betray his best friends and her brothers, but true love can't be denied forever.

This book is a true second chance romance with all of the feels and heartache you'd expect.

★★★★★ "Another spectacular book by Lea Coll, I do not think I could tell you which of her books released this year are my favorite because each one is just so good! Forbidden Love is a perfect brother’s best friend book. I just loved everything about this book!" - Payton, Good Books Clear Minds

★★★★★ "Tyler and Kylie's HEA is the cherry on top, making it the perfect ending to this awesome series! A must-read!” - Jana, Goodreads Reviewer

★★★★★ "This is another delicious couldn't put-down read! Lea Coll always has the perfect recipe for a perfect storyline and always serves it up with utter precision. Mountain Haven is my perfect snow globe, and in the 6th book in this 5* star series Kylie and Tyler were the icing on the cake, the chemistry flowed, the family bonds heartfelt. Forbidden Love is your next must-read!" - World of Books 65

★★★★★ “This book is filled with humor, love, heat and lots of family closeness! I love Ms. Coll's style of writing and I love that she weaves these wonderful characters into close knit families that are loyal and loving, but with flaws that they need to work out, and all against the wonderful backdrop of Telluride. A wonderful addition to the series!” - Pauline, Goodreads Reviewer

Tyler Fletcher was the star of every one of my teenage fantasies. And I was the forbidden fruit.The younger sister to four older brothers, I was off-limits to every guy in town—especially my brothers’ best friend.After finding ourselves alone in the same room when I was eighteen, Tyler and I had one brief, passionate encounter. But he disappeared without a word in the middle of the night.Desperate to get out of my brothers’ shadows, and away from Tyler, I fled to Paris.But after losing my job at a luxury hotel there, I found myself in the one place I swore I would never live—back home in Telluride.At a fundraising event at my family’s ski resort, Tyler approached me with an offer to partner together to raise money for charity. Desperate to find my footing and prove to my father that I deserved a position in his company, I agreed to Tyler’s proposition.Our task was simple: Construct dugouts for local softball teams.Instead, our shared moments were filled with stolen kisses in the outfield, surrendering to the undeniable spark between us.My recklessness won’t impress my father, and if he doesn’t give me the job, there will be nothing for me here. For Tyler, leaving his family and business isn’t an option.We’re treading a dangerous line, but what happens if it blows up in my face?

Read the Series

Your NEW book is here!

Hello friends!

GIVE ME A REASON is FINALLY here! I can't wait for you to read Finn and Aria's story! These two were a lot hotter than I expected, and they were something I'd never written before. They didn't listen to the rule about hooking up no sooner than 50% of the way through the book. I think you'll enjoy the steam in this one. There's also the given up on love hero and the hopeless romantic wedding planner heroine. So much goodness!

I'm so excited to share that Remi and Colton from Second Chance Harbor's Lucky Chance get married in this one! There is also a sneak peek of Leo and Harper who are next in Somebody to Love. Silas and Gia are in every book, but in this one you'll see the plan Silas concocted to drive Gia crazy. Pre-Order Everything About You.

Grab your copy of GIVE ME A REASON below, and be sure to check out the GORGEOUS special edition hardcover. It is not printed by Amazon, and the quality is AMAZING! The dust jacket is the special edition cover, and the hardcover underneath is the couple, so you don't have to choose between the two options.

The next two pre-orders are included below so you never miss a release, especially your NEXT EVER AFTER romance, SOMEBODY TO LOVE, about Harper Manning and Leo Giovanni. You got it right. These two are Gia's best friend and her oldest brother. Someone's breaking the rules...

Don't sleep with your best friend's brother.

Finn Evans is such a cynic.

How can he not believe in love and marriage but still be a musician for weddings?

I may be a hopeless romantic, but at least I believe in love—which makes being a wedding planner at Happily Ever Afters a dream job for me.

Finn and I clash about everything—except our undeniable attraction to each other.

After one brief encounter on a hotel rooftop, we agree to a no-strings-attached fling. But with each day that passes, I fall more in love with him and his little girl, Paisley.

The only problem is, our boss has a rule: No sleeping with coworkers or wedding guests.

As the newest wedding planner, I can’t afford to lose my job, and, unlike Finn, I don’t have a trust fund to fall back on. Not to mention, Finn’s sister, Ireland, is my best friend, roommate, and fellow coworker.

But when Ireland catches us together at a wedding, everything comes crashing down.

Not only am I about to lose my job and my home, but I may just lose my chance at a forever kind of love.

"Finn! I had No idea how much I was going to love Finn! This was a fast paced page turner that I really enjoyed! The characters had an undeniable connection and crazy hot chemistry. I am truly enjoying this well written series with all the amazing characters that keep this series going. Each book is a unique and extremely entertaining read!" - Reading in the Red Room

"Give Me A Reason is a wonderful addition to the Ever After series. I love Ms. Coll’s stye of writing, her characters are multi-dimensional and realistic, easy to like and relate too. This was an emotional read that tugged at my heart strings. There was witty banter, heat and enough tension to keep me invested throughout!" - Erin, Thelma & Louise Blog

HARPER MANNING AND LEO GIOVANNI

The best friend's brother romance you've been waiting for...

My best friend, Gia, has a rule for her employees and her friends: No dating her brothers.

But Leo Giovanni is the guy I’d secretly crushed on since high school—who also happens to be Gia’s eldest brother.

PRE-ORDER

GIA GIOVANNI AND SILAS SHARPE

The couple you've been waiting for...

She was off-limits. Forbidden. It only made her more attractive. I'd enjoy making this woman come apart. It would be the greatest challenge of my life.

There was just something about a man who could play guitar...

“What happened to you to make you so jaded?”

Finn sighed and looked away from me. “Both of my parents have been married and divorced multiple times. My dad five, my mom four.”

My entire body deflated at his confession. “I’m sorry, Finn. I didn’t know.”

He ran a hand through his hair. “It is what it is.”

“It’s the reason why you don’t believe in love or marriage.” No wonder he felt the way he did.

Finn’s gaze clashed with mine. “Maybe.”

It was so obvious, I wasn’t sure why he couldn’t see it. Between his parents, they’d been divorced nine times. My heart ached for the pain that must have caused him. “Ireland never said.”

I’d only recently become friends with Finn’s sister when I started working for Gia.

Finn chuckled without any humor. “She wouldn’t. She doesn’t like to talk about it.”

“I’m sorry you went through that.” I shifted on my feet, feeling bad that I’d argued with him about it. I’d grown up with parents, who’d been deeply in love.

Finn stiffened and waved a hand in the direction of the chairs and arbor. “What they do doesn’t affect my life anymore. I just wanted to tell you why I don’t believe in all this.”

“If you say so,” I murmured, but he’d stalked past the rows of chairs until he came to the one set up for him. He unsnapped the case and pulled out his guitar.

He probably wanted to tune it, making sure he was ready to play in time for the bride’s walk down the aisle.

I mentally shook my head. I had work to do too. Gia was counting on me, and I needed to prove that I was reliable and invaluable to her and her business.

I needed this job. My parents might have had a great relationship, but money wasn’t something that came easily to them. They’d always struggled financially, so college hadn’t been an option for me.

I’d worked as an instructional assistant in a local school district until they’d made budget cuts, and my job was the first to go. Losing my job was the scariest thing I’d ever experienced.

I was thankful when I saw Gia’s posting for an assistant wedding planner. It seemed like the perfect job for me. I loved talking to brides and grooms and making their dream days come true. But I didn’t plan anything myself; I mainly helped Gia. I needed to prove my worth before she’d trust me with her clients.

There was this push and pull between me and Finn. He drew me in and irritated me at the same time. But I couldn’t afford to be distracted—not when my job was on the line.

I was currently living in a low-income apartment, and if this job worked out, I could move to a nicer one. One in a safer neighborhood. My goal was to save enough money to move my younger sister in with me too.

When I reached the neatly arranged rows of wedding chairs, I opened my tablet to Gia’s list of things to do before I checked in with Harrison and then the florist, Lily. My job at these events was to make sure things ran smoothly and to report any issues to Gia.

I was only an assistant, but maybe one day, I’d be the head planner, in charge of a wedding on my own. If only I could ignore Finn’s gaze when it landed on me.

The notes of the guitar drifted around me as I made all the necessary check-ins and reports to Gia.

I loved when Finn played. I got caught up in the way his fingers moved with confidence over the strings. It made me wonder if he’d be good with other things too.

Needing to get away from Finn and his music, I walked the short distance to the main house and the smaller buildings that had been renovated. One was a garage for Lily’s and Jake’s vehicles, and the other one housed the bridal party suites and the guest bathrooms.

I found Gia outside the bridal suite, so I made sure the bridal party had drinks and food to eat while fixing any wardrobe mishaps. There was this mad rush to get everyone ready but still allow room for the photographer, Abby, to get the perfectly serene pictures of the bride interacting with her friends and mother.

Adding to the sweetness of the event was Remi and Colton’s daughter, Willow. She was passed from one person’s arms to another so that everyone could get ready. She was causing most of the wardrobe issues, but no one complained.

At one point, Willow was placed in my hands, and I reveled in the feel of her chubby arms and legs. I breathed in her scent, marveling at the way a baby could make you melt all over. She fisted my hair and pulled, but the pure delight in her eyes outweighed the sting of pain.

When it was almost time to put on her dress, Remi led her bridal party in a meditation with her daughter, Willow, in her lap. When Remi asked us to join her, I sat on the floor with everyone else, my palms facing up on my knees as I sat cross-legged. I listened to Remi’s direction to clear my head and dismiss any thoughts that popped up.

That was easier said than done because every time I closed my eyes, Finn’s flashing eyes filled my head. He was irritated with me more often than not, and I wanted to kiss him. To distract him from whatever negative thing he was going to say about love and weddings.

I wanted to shut him up, but I wanted to feel his hard body against me more. I wanted to let go with him, ignoring my responsibilities for once in my life. I didn’t want to worry about how I’d pay the rent this month, or whether I had enough money to buy groceries.

When Remi gently brought us out of the meditation, I didn’t feel like I’d been successful in clearing my head. I wasn’t supposed to be thinking about anyone at all, much less the man who got under my skin.

When we stood, Remi asked for her dress, and Gia and I left to give her some privacy with her sister, Delilah, and her mother. Abby would stick around to take the photos of her getting into her gown, but we wouldn’t be needed unless there was a dress emergency.

“Why don’t you head over to the ceremony space and make sure everything is ready to go,” Gia said to me.

“Whatever you need.” I turned to go, and Gia’s hand touched my arm. “Thank you for your help. It’s been invaluable having you and Ireland around.”

“That’s what I’m here for.” I smiled because I was truly grateful for the job and the pay, even if I wanted so much more. I needed to learn to be patient.

On the walk across the lawn and through the woods, I reminded myself of what I wanted: enough money to help my parents, to move to a nice apartment so that I could invite my sister to move in with me, and maybe even some extra to pay for community college classes for her. I loved my family and would do anything for them.

I ignored the voice in my head that asked what I wanted for myself. I’d grown up in a trailer park and learned early on that I needed to take care of my sister and find any way I could to make my parents’ lives easier.

As soon as I was old enough, I took babysitting jobs in the nicer area of town while my parents worked multiple jobs to put food on our table. I always brought Iris with me to work, and if we were lucky, the family would put enough money on the counter for us to order pizza for ourselves, too. I did whatever I could to ease my parents’ burden and ensure my little sister had food.

“You got your head in the game?” Finn asked me.

I was so lost in my thoughts I hadn’t even realized that I’d stopped next to Finn’s chair. “I have something on my mind.”

“You’re a single woman with no kids. What could you possibly have to worry about?” Finn’s words were light, but I didn’t like the implication that I couldn’t possibly have anything going on in my life worth stressing about.

Irritation slid down my spine, a common occurrence when Finn talked to me. “You don’t know anything about me or my life.” I stepped around him. “Excuse me. I have a job to do.”

Lily and her assistant finished arranging the flowers on the arbor and the chairs on the aisle. There was no runner for the aisle. Remi didn’t want anything that would detract from the natural location, and it looked beautiful. I felt an occasional drop of rain, but the leaves of the trees provided adequate cover.

I took a deep breath, releasing the pent-up irritation I felt over Finn’s words. He didn’t know me and never would. As I let it out, my heart filled with love and appreciation for this job and the wedding I was about to witness.

When Colton arrived with his best man, Max, I directed him and the preacher where to stand. I kept in communication with Gia as the bridal party made their way here. The plan was for the bridal party to walk down the aisle, and then Remi would carry her daughter, Willow, who would throw a few petals as they walked.

I focused on my job and put Finn’s careless words out of my head.

***

After the reception, there was an impromptu get-together for the Happily Ever Afters employees. It wasn’t something I’d seen before, but then, I hadn’t worked with Gia long. It seemed a little out of character for her management style, but maybe she was trying something different.

I’d hoped to get away as soon as I could and put some much-needed space between me and Finn. Instead, I was forced to stick around. This job was new and important to me. I couldn’t afford to not give a good impression. I needed to show Gia I wanted to be here.

The catering company took care of the dirty plates and leftover food, and we picked up the trash. Remi graciously donated a layer of cake to the crew, and Sophie passed slices around the tables we’d set up outdoors near the dance floor and bar.

Finn was strumming his guitar like he hadn’t just played Remi and Colton’s reception. I would have thought he’d want to take a break, but the pure love on his face when he played said it all.

I enjoyed listening to him. I couldn’t understand how he was able to make beautiful music from a few strings. When he opened his mouth and sang along to a popular song, my heart contracted and then picked up speed.

There was something about the deep set of his voice singing about love and longing that made me think his talk about weddings ending in divorce wasn’t real. But I knew better than to infer something that wasn’t there. Finn had always been skeptical about relationships and marriage, and singing a song about love didn’t mean he believed in it.

The only lights were the lanterns we’d placed around the reception area and the twinkling ones hanging from above. It illuminated Finn’s face while he played, his head bent slightly over his instrument as he focused on the chords.

Conversation went on around me, but I couldn’t seem to tear myself away from him. At one point, he looked up and caught me staring. My heart caught in my throat as he winked, his lips quirking before he focused once again on the strings.

He was probably used to women falling all over him whenever he played. There was just something about a man who could sing and play guitar that did it for any woman.

I didn’t know much about him other than what he’d said to me the few times we’d talked. When I hung out with Ireland, we didn’t talk about her brother. I was careful not to bring him up. I didn’t want her to suspect that I had a crush on him, because it was stupid. His strong fingers and jaw made my heart go pitter-patter, but whenever he opened his mouth and talked, I was reminded why we had nothing in common.

“It’s hard to believe he’s a band teacher,” Harper, Gia’s best friend and assistant manager, said to me.

“Who?” I asked stupidly, even though she’d been smiling at my attention to Finn.

“Finn.”

“He’s a band teacher?” That was a surprise. I’d suspected he was a guy who played at bars and other venues in the evenings and had lazy days around his bachelor pad, recovering from whatever he’d been up to the night before.

I’d always imagined him as someone who had groupies following him from bar to bar. I felt a stab of pain I had no business feeling because he’d been clear that he wasn’t a relationship kind of guy.

“Gia convinced him to play weddings for her. I think she offered him more money to do it.”

“He doesn’t want to play at bars?” Even though I knew he was bad for me, I was curious about him.

Harper shrugged. “I don’t think he minds playing bars, but he seems to have a thing against weddings.”

“Tell me about it,” I murmured, watching him. “Why did he give in to Gia, then, if he didn’t want to play these kinds of events?”

“She can be persuasive,” Harper said with a smile before taking a bite of her cake.

Gia was great at negotiations and usually got what she wanted. Her family ran the local pizza parlor, and she was the lone family member who’d gone out on her own. She’d had to be tough to defy her family’s wishes to work in their business.

I wondered if Gia was persuasive in other ways. Had she hooked up with Finn? Did they have some kind of friends-with-benefits relationship? And why did it matter? Why was I thinking about my boss sleeping with Finn when she’d been the one to set the rules—no sleeping with wedding guests, the wedding party, or the vendors? Her rules were designed to keep our business professional. So, why would she break them to sleep with Finn?

It didn’t sound rational, but I wasn’t feeling completely sane tonight. Every time I spoke to Finn, he knocked me off my axis. He made me question myself and what I’d always believed to be true.

He’d revealed tonight that his parents had been divorced nine times between the two of them. It was unbelievable, yet his shame and disgust had been very real. Ireland didn’t talk about her parents much, and I wondered if that was why.

I got the vague impression that their family didn’t worry about money, that she was free to take whatever job suited her fancy. But then, most people around me didn’t worry about money the way I did. I’d grown up with love but also with the distinct impression that money could run out at any time. It always felt like we didn’t have enough, and it was a relief when we could buy groceries that week. I was the kid at school who had free lunches, and I hated it, even though it made my parents’ lives easier.

Finn couldn’t possibly understand why I hoped so hard for a better future, one that had the love my parents shared and the safety and security of money. I wanted to do something that I enjoyed and earn money from it.

Happily Ever Afters was the best job I’d ever had, both in terms of pay and stability. I wouldn’t do anything to screw it up. I’d have to ignore my reaction to the man currently bent over his guitar, strumming the last chords of a song about a love that was so good it couldn’t possibly last.

Catch up on the series...

Read the first three books of the Ever After Series before Give Me A Reason releases on retailers.

Why are you so jaded?

Even though the sky was overcast, it was the perfect day for a wedding. Remi’s ceremony location required a short walk through the woods, so guests had been advised to wear comfortable shoes. I’d worn wedge heels because I was trying to impress my boss. I hoped she’d see me as a wedding planner and not just an assistant.

I held my tablet tight to my chest as I maneuvered the terrain in my wedge heels. I thought they were practical until I tripped over a branch.

A hand gripped my elbow. “Regretting your shoe choice right about now?” The accompanying chuckle rumbled through my chest, dislodging the thoughts in my head.

“Finn.”

We’d come to a stop, his hand on my elbow as he steadied me, his free hand holding his guitar case. He wore a suit and smelled so good that I found myself swaying in his direction.

When I didn’t respond, he cocked a brow. “You okay?”

We usually found every opportunity to snipe at each other, but today, I was overwhelmed by his proximity and the concern that filtered through his voice. When I finally found my voice, it was steady. “I’m fine.”

“You ready for today?” Finn took a step back, his gaze still on me. He usually only played for the receptions, but Remi had asked that he play the guitar for the ceremony too.

“I’m excited for Remi and Colton’s big day.” Then I gazed up at the cloud cover. “I just hope the rain holds out. It would be a shame if we had to move the ceremony to a tent.”

His lips twitched as if he found me amusing. “That would be a shame.”

From his tone and our previous conversations, I doubted he cared where the event was held. We’d gotten into it before over my optimism and his pessimism when it came to love and weddings. He wasn’t as invested in the couples since he only talked to them about song selections. “You’re a cynic.”

He winked at me. “Nothing you don’t already know.”

Irritation flowed through me at his usual cockiness. Refocusing on my job, I picked up my long skirt and continued moving in the direction of the clearing where the ceremony would be held.

Harrison should be setting up the chairs and the arbor. I needed to check to make sure the setup was exactly how Remi and Gia wanted it. Even though Remi was an easygoing bride, Gia had standards she wanted to meet for every wedding.

Finn hurried to keep up with me, his hand hovering under my elbow in case I stumbled again. My heart contracted at the thought. I shouldn’t be attracted to a man who didn’t believe in love and marriage. I’d always believed I’d fall in love one day, get married, and have children. Just the thought filled me with hope and joy.

“You know most couples don’t stay married,” Finn said softly.

I shot him a look. “Not this again.”

“I’m just stating the obvious.”

“Well, these two will.” I usually got a feeling when I met a couple, and these two were ridiculously happy. “Besides, they have a little girl.”

Finn’s eyes flashed with irritation. “Having kids doesn’t up your odds of your relationship working out in the long run.”

I stopped and turned to face him. Crossing my arms over my chest, I considered him. “What happened to you to make you so jaded?”

You won't want to miss this deal

For one day only, buy the special edition box set of the first three books of the Ever After Series on my shop, and get the 4th book, Give Me A Reason for FREE and before it's released on other retailers.

Finn Evans is such a cynic.

How can he not believe in love and marriage but still be a musician for weddings?

I may be a hopeless romantic, but at least I believe in love—which makes being a wedding planner at Happily Ever Afters a dream job for me.

Finn and I clash about everything—except our undeniable attraction to each other.

After one brief encounter on a hotel rooftop, we agree to a no-strings-attached fling. But with each day that passes, I fall more in love with him and his little girl, Paisley.

The only problem is, our boss has a rule: No sleeping with coworkers or wedding guests.

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⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ "Another mouth-watering instalment in this can't put down series, four books in, and the stories are still as fresh and intoxicating as the first, Give Me a Reason is a single dad romance that is scorching hot from the start and dare I say my favourite couple so far, that isn't an easy statement to make, as all the couples hold a place in my heart but, the chemistry wrapped around an enchanting story, has that extra sprinkle of romance fairy dust. Lea Coll cast her magic, and although there may be some difficult hurdles to cross the HEA is worth the wait." - World of Books 65

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ "I loved the drama, tension, humor, sparks, emotions, witty banter and sultry simmer that fuels this fun read! This book has the perfect mix of all the elements we love in an exceptional romance. You'll fall head over heels for Aria and Finn as they become the best versions of themselves on their road to forever." - Tara, Goodreads Reviewer

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐"This was a fast paced page turner that I really enjoyed! The characters had an undeniable connection and crazy hot chemistry. I am truly enjoying this well written series with all the amazing characters that keep this series going. Each book is a unique and extremely entertaining read and I’m already looking forward to reading the next book." - Reading in the Red Room

Are you teasing me?

“Are you teasing me?”

Finn chuckled, his large hand moving to my back, making me feel small and delicate. “A little bit. It’s fun. Plus, you’re in my arms, and I like it.”

I swallowed. “I like it too.”

What was happening? The entire night felt surreal. Like we weren’t really here. It was a dream where all our responsibilities and worries fell away, and there was nothing but us. Two people who genuinely liked and respected each other.

I dropped down so that the heel of my shoe was flat on the ground again, my hands on his biceps. His forehead dropped down to mine. “What are we doing?”

Our breath mingled together, and he moved slightly back to see my face. “I’m not sure.”

Whatever it was felt reckless and a little bit wild. My heart beat erratically in my chest. His eyes searched mine as if he were searching for permission.

“I want to—”

I moved my arms, dangling them around his neck, and we both inched forward, our eyes closing. Sparks went off in my head, and every inch of my body tightened in anticipation.

When his lips finally pressed against mine, I sighed into him.

I needed this. The connection. The soft press of his lips. And then he was moving, soft sweeps of his lips across mine until they parted, inviting him in. Hope bloomed in my chest as his tongue danced across my lower lip and inside, finding mine.

I pressed my body against him, feeling him from thigh to chest. Hard against soft. His hands gripped my hips, making me want more. His hands on me, his weight on top of me. I wanted everything.

But a horn beeped in the distance, reminding us of where we were. I was supposed to be working, keeping an eye on the reception, and available if anyone needed me.

I stepped back and smoothed my dress, poised to bolt. “I should get back.”

“Of course.” He watched me as if I’d run off at any second.

I should have walked to the exit door and walked down the steps to the ballroom, but instead, my body crashed against his as I pulled his head down to meet mine. This time, our teeth clashed, and his hand lifted my thigh so he could press against my core.

I moaned against his lips; it was too much, yet not enough. I wanted more. When he angled his hips a second time, letting me feel how hard he was, goose bumps raced over my skin.

No matter how crazy this was, I wouldn’t stop it.

His kisses were frantic now, wet and open, as he wrapped my legs around his waist and carried me over to the wall of the bar and pressed me against it.

I sighed into his mouth, lost in the moment. We were the only ones here, and I let everything go. Who he was to me, his sister, my job. Nothing else mattered except chasing this feeling. This growing knot of tension in my core. I needed him to ease it.

“Please, Finn,” I murmured against his lips.

“This is crazy.” His voice was strained.

Yet it was exactly what we needed. He ground against my core, and I felt every inch of his hard cock through his slacks and my panties.

I fumbled with his zipper, but he brushed my hand away, shoving his pants down and my panties to the side. My head fell back as he slid his cock between my folds.

“Do we need a condom?” His voice was low and husky, full of need.

I should have said yes, but instead, I said, “I’m on birth control, and I’m clean.”

“I’m clean too.” And then the tip of his cock slipped inside, and my mouth dropped open. How could this feel so good?

I’d never done anything so crazy in my life, but I needed more. I wiggled my hips, urging him to go deeper. With a single thrust, he was seated deep, and I bit my lip so I wouldn’t cry out.

“I want to hear you. Give it to me,” he said as he pulled back and thrust inside.

My back pressed against the unforgiving wall; I was teetering on the edge of an orgasm more powerful than I’d ever experienced before.

I chanted his name as he increased the pace, dipping his hips to press inside me. With each thrust, he rubbed against my clit. The friction built until I couldn’t stop myself from falling over the edge.

I cried out as his arms tightened around me. My forehead fell forward to rest against his as he thrust once, twice more, and let go.

“Fuck.” He filled me with his cum, the warmth sliding over my pussy and thighs. He slowly pulled out, helping me get steady on my feet before he reached for a napkin by the bar. When he cleaned me, a pang went through my heart. It was sweet.

What we’d just done felt like something more than I’d ever done with anyone else before, but it couldn’t mean anything. Not given who Finn was and what he wanted. I stifled the desire for more and pulled my panties in place, straightening my dress.

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I hadn't expected him...

I sipped champagne, content to spend time with my friends, even if it was at the grand opening of a garage. We stood in the open bay, enjoying the warm weather while music played softly over the speakers. I’d drunk enough of the alcohol to have that floaty feeling, like nothing could bring me down.

I wanted to support the owners, especially since Ryan was the boyfriend of my best friend, Hailey.

Ryan was currently under the hood of a vehicle, demonstrating something to a guest, while Jake stood nearby with his arms crossed over his chest.

“I almost wish I was having car trouble right now.” I wasn’t interested in anything long-term, but a one-night stand wouldn’t be out of the question. I needed to release some of the tension caught between my shoulder blades.

Hailey gave me a pointed look. “You cannot hit on my brother.”

“I would never.” The truth was that I’d never been attracted to Jake. As hot as mechanics were, I’d always gone for men in suits.

A sleek sports car pulled up, and Jake stepped toward the vehicle just as the driver’s side door opened.

A man unfolded from the low seat, straightening to his full height. I loved tall men, and that one exuded power from his expensive shoes to the black button-down shirt that fell open at the neck.

I gulped the bubbly liquid, wanting but failing to soothe my suddenly dry throat.

“We’re not open for repairs tonight,” Jake said by way of greeting.

My gaze swept over his face, admiring his neatly trimmed beard and the arch of his lips. But as I got to his eyes, I felt there was something familiar about them. They held a challenge as if he was used to getting his way.

It couldn’t be Bentley Monroe. The boy who’d moved onto my street at age seven and challenged me at every turn. I hadn’t seen my childhood nemesis in ten years. Not since we’d graduated from high school as co-valedictorians. Right before my speech, he’d leaned over to whisper in my ear that he was the real valedictorian, but the principal felt sorry for me. I hadn’t believed him—not really—but the familiar anger burned in my gut as I watched him extend his hand to Jake.

I wanted him to get back in his car and leave, but a bigger part of me wanted to know what he was doing there. I moved closer to hear their conversation.

His gaze snagged on mine, and I sucked in a breath. It was him.

“Bentley Monroe?” There was a buzzing in my ears that grew louder by the second.

“I go by Ben now.” His eyes narrowed on mine. “Brooke Langley?”

I’d teased him for his pretentious name in school, so it wasn’t a surprise that he’d shortened it.

“What are you doing here?” Maybe he was just visiting his parents and would be gone in a couple of days. My heart beat slower as I waited for his response.

Bentley—no, Ben, now—looked from me to Jake. “I’m dropping my car off for service. I left a message earlier.”

Jake gestured behind him at the crowd of people. “Sorry, man. We had our grand opening party tonight. I haven’t been checking messages.”

Hailey grasped my elbow and hissed into my ear, “Wait, is this the Bentley? The lemonade stand kid?”

I nodded; my gaze locked on Ben.

But he wasn’t a kid anymore. He was polished and put together. He had a presence that had nothing to do with expensive clothes or his fancy car.

“I heard you do good work,” Bentley said to Jake.

Jake nodded. “What seems to be the problem?”

Ben stepped to the side of the vehicle, gesturing underneath. “I hit something on the drive here from Philadelphia.”

“There’s an issue with the undercarriage?” Jake asked.

Ben nodded. “I think so, but I’m not a mechanic.”

The guys chuckled as if sharing a secret, and my fingers curled into fists. Even though he hadn’t even said anything offensive, being around Ben never failed to set me off.

“We can squeeze you in tomorrow,” Ryan said from behind the counter, where he was looking at a pad of paper, probably the schedule.

Ben pulled a phone from his pocket. “That works. I’ll let you get back to your party.”

“Are you in town to visit your family?” Though he’d mentioned a move, I hoped he meant a temporary one.

Ben lifted his gaze. “I’m opening a store in town.”

My heart began beating so loudly that I could barely hear his next words.

“Bean Rush.”

I owned the only coffee shop in town. Which meant my childhood nemesis just became my competition. He’d been the perfect motivator to get good grades in school, but I didn’t want that same dynamic now.

“Why?” I finally bit out. Why was he ruining my dream? In high school, it seemed like he was always two steps ahead, taunting me. I could never measure up when all I wanted to do was beat him. My stomach rolled and dipped like I was on a roller coaster instead of standing on even ground.

Ben shrugged like he didn’t have a care in the world. “I wanted to open a business, and this seemed as good a place as any.”

“I own Java Coffee. We don’t need two coffee shops in town.” I crossed my arms over my chest, positive he knew this information and didn’t care. It was just like him to be cocky, to think he’d make it when no one else did.

He smirked. “It’ll be just like old times, then.”

My cheeks heated. I could feel my friends watching us, wondering how we knew each other and what the deal was. “So, you’re back, like, permanently?”

It came out sounding bitchier than I intended. I couldn’t let him get to me. If he saw a weakness, he’d hone in on it and take advantage any way he could. It was his superpower.

“Looks that way.” Ben’s attention returned to his phone as he moved away.

The fact that he could dismiss me so easily was even more infuriating. Nothing had changed. He was still the same cocky guy he was in high school. He didn’t think he had anything to worry about, but I’d show him he was wrong. I wouldn’t go down without a fight.

Hailey guided me to the hallway out of view of our friends. “Are you okay?”

Her voice was filled with concern.

“I’m sorry. I just wasn’t expecting that.” I gestured toward the garage. What I hadn’t expected was him.

“It will be okay.” What I hadn’t told my friends was that I’d always liked Ben. I was attracted to his sharp wit and intelligence. Though, I’d never admit it to him. Our relationship didn’t allow for weaknesses.

Ben was just the start of the boys, and later, men, who were intimidated by my intelligence and success. I’d thought my ex-husband was different. He was sweet and supportive until he got what he wanted, and it wasn’t me. When he said he wanted a divorce, it was a surprise. Ever since then, I’d surrounded myself with a tough outer shell that no one could penetrate.

I let the shock of seeing Ben walk back into my life wash over me. I wouldn’t let him best me again. The logical part of me recognized it would be better not to let him get to me, but I wasn’t strong enough for that today. Tomorrow I’d do better.

“You got this.”

I’d focus on my business and on drawing customers away from him.

“He doesn’t matter.” My mind was still running through the reel of our childhood, one confrontation after another.

Hailey’s brows furrowed.

I scrambled to make up for the revealing comment. “I mean—I won’t let his business ruin mine.”

“That’s my girl,” Hailey assured me as she hugged me. “It’s going to be okay.”

Except I wasn’t sure that it was. Just like the first time Ben moved to town, nothing would be the same. I just had no way of knowing what the impact would be.

I was the forbidden fruit

Summertime Dreams

Summertime is drinking lemonade and reading a good book by the pool. Looking back it's full of good memories. Like swimming with your friends at a swimming hole, and crushing on that boy.

Was it your best friend's older brother? Your irritating neighbor? The kid down the street who ran a lemonade stand? Back then, the best thing you could imagine was the object of your crush finally noticing you for the first time.

Summertime is also about dreams coming true. Sitting poolside and reading about your biggest fantasy come to life.

I created a bundle of romances that started out as a child crush. From competing lemonade stands, to the best friend's oldest brother, you will devour these romances, and get those warm and fuzzy feelings that only come from reading a good book. There are 7 full-length novels for you to binge read, and the best part? The bundle is 50% off to celebrate summer. Get it now because this is a limited time offer.

Tyler Fletcher was the star of every one of my teenage fantasies. And I was the forbidden fruit.

The younger sister to four older brothers, I was off-limits to every guy in town—especially my brothers’ best friend.

After finding ourselves alone in the same room when I was eighteen, Tyler and I had one brief, passionate encounter. But he disappeared without a word in the middle of the night.

Desperate to get out of my brothers’ shadows, and away from Tyler, I fled to Paris.

But after losing my job at a luxury hotel there, I found myself in the one place I swore I would never live—back home in Telluride.

At a fundraising event at my family’s ski resort, Tyler approached me with an offer to partner together to raise money for charity. Desperate to find my footing and prove to my father that I deserved a position in his company, I agreed to Tyler’s proposition.

Our task was simple: Construct dugouts for local softball teams.

Instead, our shared moments were filled with stolen kisses in the outfield, surrendering to the undeniable spark between us.

My recklessness won’t impress my father, and if he doesn’t give me the job, there will be nothing for me here. For Tyler, leaving his family and business isn’t an option.

We’re treading a dangerous line, but what happens if it blows up in my face?

Royal Haze by LJ Evans

I pledge allegiance to her and only her.

Singer and lead guitarist Nikki Rani will do whatever it takes to keep her mom and her band safe, even if it means keeping secrets about her friend's murder. She failed her loved ones once and won't be taken in again by a ridiculous story.

There are no fairy tales in her future. Especially not with a broody stranger who's more likely to offer heartache and pain than redemption.

She looks a lot like temptation on a stick...

I tugged on my tie, uncomfortable wearing a suit to represent my family’s business, Fletcher & Sons Contracting at the Wilde Ski Resort. The Wilde family was hosting a charity event tonight, spearheaded by their youngest child and only daughter, Kylie Wilde, or as I liked to call her when we were kids, Baby Wilde.

It was a good cause. She was collecting new or gently used athletic gear for use on the ski hills and monetary donations for kids that couldn’t afford lessons or the lift ticket.

I’d been content staying on the outskirts of the crowd, nursing a drink at the bar. When Kylie crossed the room in a black, form-fitting dress with stiletto heels, my gaze went to the curve of her hip and that delectable ass I wanted to squeeze. When she came closer, I noticed how her hair curled around her shoulders, touching the bare skin I wanted to be intimately familiar with.

When we were growing up, she’d been a tomboy, forever chasing after her brothers, trying to keep up with their antics. They thwarted her at every turn, so she became sneakier. We’d have epic hide-and-seek games in the lodge, and she’d hide, only to jump out at us. Her brothers were annoyed by her, calling her a pest. I’d thought so too, but as she got older, she filled out, lost the leanness from youth, and became harder to ignore.

Her brothers made it clear to their friends that she was off-limits. There were a few times we found ourselves alone during hide-and-seek, and I’d like to say I kept my hands to myself, but that last time, I didn’t. I’d always been impulsive and a little reckless, and I’d been the same with Kylie.

I felt guilty about it over the years. I’d betrayed my best friends with their sister. But Kylie left after high school and hadn’t returned, other than for short visits—until now. Her being home was difficult because that pesky attraction I’d always felt for her hadn’t gone away.

I should have been focused on business. Usually, Mac or my dad would attend community events and fundraisers, but I’d been tasked with attending this one since Dad was doing less these days, and Mac spent more time with Natalie and her daughter, Delaney. Sam had a daughter, Maggie, so I was the only single one without a life.

This was my chance to prove that I was responsible and could take on more tasks surrounding the business. I couldn’t get distracted by the Wilde brothers’ younger sister, who looked a lot like temptation on a stick.

My goal for the evening was to talk to Kylie about the possibility of us working together on a sports charity. Mac came up with the idea after talking to other contracting businesses about their fundraising projects. We’d settled on sports since we’d all played baseball growing up, and Kylie seemed well-versed in the fundraising aspect.

I needed to talk to her, but she was already speaking to a man in a suit who was in his thirties and looked all too happy to touch her bare shoulder and lean in close.

My jaw clenched as she tipped her head back and laughed.

I clenched my hands into fists, uncomfortable with the tightening sensation in my chest. When we were younger, I listened to her complain about her brothers, but I didn’t realize until she was older that we had a connection. One that wasn’t friendly.

Xander approached me and followed my gaze to his sister. “As much as I like having her home, she’s trouble.”

“Kylie?” I asked nonchalantly, as if he hadn’t caught me eyeing her from across the room.

He shook his head in disgust. “I don’t like the way he’s touching her.”

Me either, but I wasn’t saying that to her brother. Because I was having the same naughty thoughts that the other guy was having, and I was positive Xander wouldn’t appreciate it.

Xander shifted so that I couldn’t see Kylie and the man anymore. “Apparently, he has deep pockets, and Kylie wants her little charity to be successful.”

“Little charity?” It sounded like Kylie’s brothers didn’t respect her any more than they had when we were kids, even though she’d grown up, worked on her own in Europe, and returned home.

Xander braced one hand on the bar while he signaled to the bartender that he wanted a drink. He shifted and leaned an elbow on the bar top. “I want her to stay, and if running this side thing is what she wants, I’ll let her.”

“You’ll let me?” Kylie asked, her eyes spitting fire, and one hand moved to her hip.

I shouldn’t be thinking about what she was wearing under that form-fitting dress. Not when her brother, who was my best friend, stood next to me.

“You know that’s not what I meant. I love having you back.” Xander pulled her into a hug.

I remembered Kylie complaining that they didn’t take her seriously. It appeared that not much had changed from when we were kids.

I understood when she left. She’d felt stifled by her family’s lodge and this small town, but now that she was back, I was dying to know why.

Kylie’s cool gaze moved to mine. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m here for Fletcher & Sons.”

“Doesn’t your father usually do that, or even Mac?” Xavier asked.

“Dad’s taking a step back. He wants us to take on more of the responsibility, and both of my brothers have kids now.”

Kylie’s face softened. “Mac’s with my friend, Natalie, and Sam is with Alice.”

“I see someone I know,” Xander said by way of apology, when someone in the crowd caught his attention.

Kylie stepped closer. “What are you really doing here, Tyler? I never see you at these events.”

My throat tightened at her proximity, making it difficult to breathe. It was probably best to talk about the reason I was supposed to be here and not why I enjoyed being close to her. “We’re looking to get into some charity work.”

Kylie crossed her arms over her chest; the effect was pushing up the globes of her breasts. “And what? You’re here to take notes on mine?”

I swallowed hard, looking anywhere but at her chest. “Not exactly. I was hoping we could talk about partnering on something.”

Kylie’s face pinched, and I knew she was remembering how I’d left things. “I don’t think we have anything to talk about. Not after how you left things.”

I’d left her in one of the lodge’s guest rooms, sleeping. I should have left a note or texted her afterward, but I hadn’t. Back then, I was petrified of crossing her brothers. It was a small town, and the Wildes were a prominent family. “I’m sorry for how I handled things.”

Kylie huffed. “I’m a big girl. I’m not hung up on something that happened when we were kids.”

She had been eighteen, but I had always thought of her as younger and more vulnerable. Probably because that’s how her brothers viewed her.

“I’m sorry for the way I acted.” I used the only excuse that made sense at the time. “You know I’m friends with your brothers.”

Kylie rolled her eyes. “They’re why I left. I couldn’t have a life with them hovering and ruining anything good that came into my life.”

My brain snagged on the idea that maybe she thought I’d been some of that good, but I refocused on why I was here. “My brothers and I were talking about starting a charity, and we settled on baseball. Since we played and you played softball, we’d like to help local teams in some way. We’re just not sure how yet. You’ve done such an amazing job in a short amount of time with this event, and I was hoping you could give us a few pointers.”

Her head tipped to the side, and her expression softened. “Is that all you wanted?”

“We were hoping you’d partner with us since we heard you were interested in helping athletes.”

She shook her head slightly. “Tonight was just a test to see if I could fundraise. I want to help female athletes. Growing up, the girls didn’t have the equipment the boys had. But I’m not sure that’s what you were looking to get into.”

When I played baseball and football, I had everything I needed. But then the sports boosters raised money that went to the most popular sports—football, ice hockey, and baseball—all male-dominated sports. “What were you thinking?”

“Our team shared batting helmets and bats. We never had a dugout. Sometimes we didn’t even have a bench to sit on. We sat on the bleachers with the fans. Our field was used for gym class, while the boys’ field was covered in a protective tarp.” Her tone was tinged with disgust, and for the first time, I realized how things might have been different.

“I never thought about it like that.” It wasn’t my experience, and I was embarrassed to say I hadn’t been more curious back then.

“I guess you wouldn’t.”

My pitch had fallen flat, but Mac and Sam were depending on me. “I know you’re busy tonight, but do you think we can talk about this somewhere else? I’ll go back to my brothers with your ideas, and maybe we can still come up with something that will work for all of us.”

“What’s your goal in all of this, Tyler?”

“We want to get more involved in the community and give back. Mac’s contractor friend talked about renovating houses for those who are disabled.”

“I’m almost positive that whoever Mac’s friend is, that cause was something important to him. If you want to get involved in the community or raise money for something, it should be something you’re passionate about. I just don’t see you getting behind female athletes when your business is comprised of men.”

“You never know,” I murmured, a little distracted by the fire I saw in her eyes. This cause was important to her, and I knew she’d be successful at it. “I love your idea. I love what you’re doing here, and I’m confident we can do something together that will be amazing.”

Kylie’s lip curled. “I’m not just throwing the Wilde name up on team jerseys or on a banner on an outfield fence.”

My face heated because those were a few of the first ideas we’d come up with. “We want to do something more meaningful, something that will have an effect on the kids in the community and their ability to play sports. Buy the equipment they need. Sports are expensive, and these days, kids are expected to pay for the helmets, bats, cleats, and sometimes even the uniforms.”

“I’m happy to talk to you about it and give you some direction.”

My shoulders tensed. “But you’re not willing to partner with us?”

She held up her hand. “I didn’t say that. If you still have my number, text me when you want to grab coffee. We can discuss it further.” Her tone was professional, but my heart rate picked up at the idea of meeting her for anything.

“I’ll be in touch.” I wasn’t ashamed to admit I’d transferred her number to my new phones over the years, even if I never reached out. I wasn’t going to ask her if she’d done the same. I was stronger than that.

She sighed and turned to leave.

“Kylie?”

She paused. Her brow arched. “Yes?”

“I’m glad you’re back.” It complicated things. I was worried about her brothers finding out, but I liked having her home. I wasn’t going to think about why that was.

“I’m not so sure I am,” she said when she spotted one of her brothers stalking toward us. She walked away before I could respond, probably trying to avoid him.

“What were you talking to Kylie about?” Eli asked. He oversaw hotel management, so he was always visible at an event like this.

“I talked to her about the possibility of working with Fletcher & Sons on a nonprofit.”

Eli raised a brow. “Was she game?”

I chuckled. “Not exactly. She has very clear ideas on what she wants.”

“I just wish she’d tell us what that is. She came back after whatever the hell happened at her job in Paris. She won’t say why she left, why she’s back, or how long she’s staying.”

I wanted to know more about her leaving her last job but asking would arouse Eli’s suspicions. “I can’t say I understand your sister.”

Eli shook his head. “Me either.”

“It might have something to do with us ignoring her when we were kids.” I hadn’t, but her brothers sure had. I’d never been able to ignore her. Every time she showed up where we were, I had this indescribable urge to protect her, to make her feel wanted, because her brothers always told her she wasn’t.

“She was always following us around. We did what any big brothers would do,” Eli said as he leaned on the bar to order a drink.

She was always sneaking out, trying to keep up with us, until that one time she got hurt. No one knew she was skiing on the hill behind us when she fell and broke her arm. I was the one who heard her cry out and carried her to the lodge.

She must have been in pain, but she didn’t cry. Her face was white, and I talked to her until we were at the bottom of the mountain, and I handed her over to her father. After that night, she never showed up when we were out like that again.

I wasn’t sure if it was her parents keeping an eye on her or if she didn’t want to get hurt again. I knew her brothers meant well. They pulled crazy stunts and were a little wild. They didn’t want her attempting to do the stuff they did. They wanted to protect her, but it came across like no one wanted her around.

Whenever I found myself alone with her, she grumbled about how lonely she felt as the youngest of five siblings. Even when her cousins visited, they were boys and played with her brothers. Each time she confided in me, I sympathized with her situation. I thought she was tough.

Eli took his drink, threw a few bills on the bar top for a tip, and turned to scan the room. “I heard you’re looking for a new place.”

“I want some land to build on.”

“Like Mac.”

Not that I wanted to copy my brother, but his place was amazing. He built a large house at the base of the mountains with enough property to grow and enjoy for a long time to come. It was perfect because he’d recently met and started dating Natalie, Kylie’s childhood friend. She had a daughter, and he’d even gotten a puppy. He’d said he was lonely before they moved in and was happy to fill his house.

I tried not to think about the fact that I’d be doing the same, building a house without someone to share it with. But then my goal wasn’t to be in a committed relationship. “Living downtown is getting old.”

“What are you talking about? You always talk about how you can walk to the bars.”

I chuckled and leaned an arm on the bar. “That’s not everything. Not anymore.”

“Your brothers settled down, and you are following in their footsteps.”

“They have their women locked down, but that’s not what I want.” I’d never thought about it too much. Mac had always been a romantic, wanting that relationship from a young age. When he got burned a few times, he took a step back, but we always knew his heart hadn’t changed. And when Natalie came around, we knew she was the one for him. It took him a little longer to figure it out.

Sam was a single dad, so he’d had to grow up in his early twenties. He didn’t think he’d ever have a committed relationship since he had a young daughter, but then he’d hired Alice to be his nanny, and the rest was history.

“I’m busy with work, and I enjoy my alone time too much to be committed to anyone. At least not anytime soon.”

“Same,” I said as I watched Kylie work the room. This was her event, so she was meeting with everyone here, probably to drum up donations and generate interest in her cause.

“I’m proud of her,” Eli said.

“She pulled it together in a short time.” I hoped Eli told Kylie he was proud of her because I had a feeling they neglected little details like that when it came to their sister.

“How long will she stick around? She’s never loved Telluride like we do.”

“Maybe she never thought you wanted her here,” I said, repeating what she’d told me when she was eighteen.

“How can you say that?” Eli asked, shifting so he could see my face.

“She was always trying to keep up with you and your brothers, but you always told her she wasn’t wanted.”

“She was the youngest, and we did some crazy shit back then. I didn’t want her to get hurt. Hell, she did get hurt that one time.”

“Did you tell her that?”

His jaw worked as he thought about it. “Not in so many words.”

“Have you offered her a position at the resort?” I remembered that night we spent together; she was upset because she felt like there wasn’t a place for her at the lodge or in her family. The boys had taken all the available positions, and there was nothing left for her.

“We never wanted her to feel like she had to stay here and work for the family business. We wanted her to have options.”

“Maybe she doesn’t see it that way.” At Eli’s concerned expression, I held up a hand. “I’m just guessing.”

Eli’s shoulders relaxed. “We’d love to have her here, but I don’t know where she fits in.”

“I hope you figure it out before she leaves again.” There was no chance that I’d pursue anything with Kylie, no matter how much I’d wanted her over the years. I’d taken advantage of her that one night, and I felt horrible about it. But more than that, she deserved a relationship, and there was no way her brothers would be okay with her dating me.

I wouldn’t do that to her or to her brothers. The Wilde family had always been good to me. I wouldn’t do anything to screw that up. Especially now that we wanted to partner with Kylie. A personal relationship would complicate things.

New Book Live Early on my shop!

With the release of Forbidden Love, the Mountain Haven Series is complete! Catch up on the series and get the latest release for free in the special edition box set. As a bonus, get a sneak peek of the spin-off series, The Wilde Brothers.

New Release: Forbidden Love

After a bad break-up and losing my job, I moved back to my hometown. Now I’m forced to work with the one person I’d crushed on since I was a teen.

Unfortunately, time hadn’t diminished our attraction to each other, and nothing can change the fact that Tyler’s my brothers’ best friend.

Now Complete: Series Box Set

With the release of Forbidden Love, the Mountain Haven Series is now complete! 6 full length novels, 1 prequel, and all bonus scenes are included in this set that is not available anywhere else except for my shop.

Get Forbidden Love FREE in these bundles:

Brother's Best Friend

Childhood Crush Forbidden Love

Contractors

Second Chance Romance