Johnny Ray's Blog, page 42
September 30, 2013
September 28, 2013
An evening to enjoy
Do you have one of those day that you wish would never end, one where all is perfect?
If so, enjoy this moment, my friends.
September 27, 2013
This is what we put up with in Florida during the summer
This is what we put up with in Florida during the summer
funny video
I had to post this. I hope you have a great weekend, my friends.
SCANDAL -- THE DEATH OF A LEGACY --EXCERPT
SCANDAL -- THE DEATH OF A LEGACY
KRISTINA SUTHERLAND learns she's pregnant, but how?
She couldn't remember having sex with anyone for a long time.
Her only explanation--a date rape drug.
The problem: it happened onboard the corporate yacht attended by every member of the board of directors, older men and friends of her family. Still, the test strip didn't lie. And now, someone wants her to have an abortion to end the scandal and would do anything necessary to make sure she either complies or dies before giving birth.
An insider, the head of security for Lyon International soon offers her the best chance in surviving and discovering the truth. But SHAWN DAVIS has his own deep secrets to hide. While his grandfather, Brent Lyon is the chairman of the board he had tossed Shawn and his mother to the curb when he was born. His mother had refused to have an abortion, a decision Shawn obviously felt thankful for. This time, however, Shawn can make a difference, especially when Kristina needs someone to believe in her, to be her champion.EXCERPT As he watched one girl walk in, dressed in a full length overcoat pulled high upon her neck, he knew the kind—rich, arrogant, and generally a royal pain in the butt. While she looked completely out of place here, he studied her movements as she approached the counter. She didn’t glance around, indicating she had been here before as she ordered without looking at the marquee above.When she turned, their eyes met. It took a second before he recognized Kristina. Her father also worked for the corporation his grandfather owned, and in fact he also occupied a seat on the board of directors. After her glare locked in this frozen moment in time slowly thawed, a smile soon inched out of one corner of her mouth as she moved closer to him to ask, “How are you?” “I’m fine, thanks. I’m just grabbing a bite to eat. I didn’t know many people knew about this place.”“It’s not on my top places to eat, but I thought no one would recognize me here.” She nervously glanced around. He watched her eventually glance at his food. “Well, at least it’s fast.” Shawn studied the various empty tables and knew that she had many available, but he decided to be polite. “Would you like to join me?” He watched the indecisiveness as she twitched to one side before answering. “I guess so, but I really was looking for a place to be alone for a while to do some thinking.”“Don’t worry since I can only stay for a few more minutes. I need to get back to work”“Are you working this late?” She acted surprised but polite as she joined him. Shawn allowed a small laugh to escape. “My work seems to never end, but all is quiet so far tonight.”“I think I’ve seen you around often when we travel. You do know who I am.”“Yes, I do, it’s my job to know everyone connected to Lyon International.” Shawn considered extending his hand to introduce himself but stopped.Kristina laughed, but she failed to hide a pain she couldn’t erase. “Knowing everyone in this company has to be a major task.”“Like I said, it’s my job to keep everyone safe.” Kristina’s face turned serious for a minute. “I’m not sure if you can help me, but can I ask you something, strictly between you and me?”This was not the first time he had received special requests. He had often been used to find information on others, which he assumed she would be asking. “I should be able to, I think. Why? What is it you want to ask me?” “I’ve a situation where I might need to hire a private detective, and I’ve never done this before. Off the record, I was wondering if you could recommend someone.”“I know many people, but first I need to know more about what you’re after, since they all have different areas of expertise. And perhaps it might be something I can handle for you quietly, since it’s my job to handle anything which might affect the company or its employees. Knowing who your father is, I’m sure that coverage would extend to including you.”Kristina glanced around the café for the first time. “In this case, I don’t need anyone from the company hearing about this. This is why I think I need someone independent.”Shawn listened, but knew he had to know more, and to do so, he had to gain her confidence. “As you may or may not know, discretion is what I’m hired to do.” “I’ll have to think about it, but there’s one thing you can help me with, and this is something else no one needs to know about. Can you promise me you’ll do this for me?”“What is it you want me to do?” Shawn had learned to never make an open promise without knowing all of the details.“I know you’re good at getting people in and out of places without being seen. I’ve seen you help my dad do this before.”“Yes, one of the best ways to protect someone is to find an easy way to enter and exit a building. “ Shawn noticed a small quiver coming from her body. Something was up.“I may need to see a special doctor.”Alarms went off. If he read this correctly, he had a girl in trouble who could also get him in trouble if he didn’t handle it right. “Do you think you’re pregnant?”Kristina ducked her head and glanced over her shoulder. “Please, not so loud.” She raised her head as her eyes focused on him. “Please forget what I said. I need to handle this on my own and not let my father know.”“Please, calm down. I’m here to help. Why don’t you visit your family doctor?”“My regular doctor is good friends with my father.”
She couldn't remember having sex with anyone for a long time.
Her only explanation--a date rape drug.
The problem: it happened onboard the corporate yacht attended by every member of the board of directors, older men and friends of her family. Still, the test strip didn't lie. And now, someone wants her to have an abortion to end the scandal and would do anything necessary to make sure she either complies or dies before giving birth.
An insider, the head of security for Lyon International soon offers her the best chance in surviving and discovering the truth. But SHAWN DAVIS has his own deep secrets to hide. While his grandfather, Brent Lyon is the chairman of the board he had tossed Shawn and his mother to the curb when he was born. His mother had refused to have an abortion, a decision Shawn obviously felt thankful for. This time, however, Shawn can make a difference, especially when Kristina needs someone to believe in her, to be her champion.EXCERPT As he watched one girl walk in, dressed in a full length overcoat pulled high upon her neck, he knew the kind—rich, arrogant, and generally a royal pain in the butt. While she looked completely out of place here, he studied her movements as she approached the counter. She didn’t glance around, indicating she had been here before as she ordered without looking at the marquee above.When she turned, their eyes met. It took a second before he recognized Kristina. Her father also worked for the corporation his grandfather owned, and in fact he also occupied a seat on the board of directors. After her glare locked in this frozen moment in time slowly thawed, a smile soon inched out of one corner of her mouth as she moved closer to him to ask, “How are you?” “I’m fine, thanks. I’m just grabbing a bite to eat. I didn’t know many people knew about this place.”“It’s not on my top places to eat, but I thought no one would recognize me here.” She nervously glanced around. He watched her eventually glance at his food. “Well, at least it’s fast.” Shawn studied the various empty tables and knew that she had many available, but he decided to be polite. “Would you like to join me?” He watched the indecisiveness as she twitched to one side before answering. “I guess so, but I really was looking for a place to be alone for a while to do some thinking.”“Don’t worry since I can only stay for a few more minutes. I need to get back to work”“Are you working this late?” She acted surprised but polite as she joined him. Shawn allowed a small laugh to escape. “My work seems to never end, but all is quiet so far tonight.”“I think I’ve seen you around often when we travel. You do know who I am.”“Yes, I do, it’s my job to know everyone connected to Lyon International.” Shawn considered extending his hand to introduce himself but stopped.Kristina laughed, but she failed to hide a pain she couldn’t erase. “Knowing everyone in this company has to be a major task.”“Like I said, it’s my job to keep everyone safe.” Kristina’s face turned serious for a minute. “I’m not sure if you can help me, but can I ask you something, strictly between you and me?”This was not the first time he had received special requests. He had often been used to find information on others, which he assumed she would be asking. “I should be able to, I think. Why? What is it you want to ask me?” “I’ve a situation where I might need to hire a private detective, and I’ve never done this before. Off the record, I was wondering if you could recommend someone.”“I know many people, but first I need to know more about what you’re after, since they all have different areas of expertise. And perhaps it might be something I can handle for you quietly, since it’s my job to handle anything which might affect the company or its employees. Knowing who your father is, I’m sure that coverage would extend to including you.”Kristina glanced around the café for the first time. “In this case, I don’t need anyone from the company hearing about this. This is why I think I need someone independent.”Shawn listened, but knew he had to know more, and to do so, he had to gain her confidence. “As you may or may not know, discretion is what I’m hired to do.” “I’ll have to think about it, but there’s one thing you can help me with, and this is something else no one needs to know about. Can you promise me you’ll do this for me?”“What is it you want me to do?” Shawn had learned to never make an open promise without knowing all of the details.“I know you’re good at getting people in and out of places without being seen. I’ve seen you help my dad do this before.”“Yes, one of the best ways to protect someone is to find an easy way to enter and exit a building. “ Shawn noticed a small quiver coming from her body. Something was up.“I may need to see a special doctor.”Alarms went off. If he read this correctly, he had a girl in trouble who could also get him in trouble if he didn’t handle it right. “Do you think you’re pregnant?”Kristina ducked her head and glanced over her shoulder. “Please, not so loud.” She raised her head as her eyes focused on him. “Please forget what I said. I need to handle this on my own and not let my father know.”“Please, calm down. I’m here to help. Why don’t you visit your family doctor?”“My regular doctor is good friends with my father.”
September 26, 2013
LITERARY AGENT -- BEWARE
LITERARY AGENT -- BEWARE
Just asking, but after sleeping with a literary agent, shouldn't
you receive more than a form rejection letter?
It might also have helped to know that this want-to-be writer
is bi-polar.
However, she is not the one to be feared most by this agent.
For her anger and zest in destroying his career has created a copycat, a serial
killer with a new target--literary agents.
When a serial killer stalks literary agents, and brutally
kills them, the world of publishing panics with fear as the FBI hunts for the
cold blooded killer, wondering what could cause a person to become such a monster? EXCERPT CHAPTER 1
He envisioned his own tombstone:
Michael Lloyd
Literary Agent Extraordinaire
Killed in the Line of Duty
Damn, he knew he could die any minute. A blurred object moving mere inches in front of his eyes materialized, as a flash of light reflected from the cold steel. Focusing on the razored edge of the curved knife ascending into a sharp tip designed to kill, he stopped breathing. His body stiffened, and froze solid where he sat with his back against a hard cold wall. He felt scared that any movement might further agitate his attacker. The pain radiating from the back of his battered head dulled his vision and his thoughts, as a wire tying his hands together cut into his skin, increasing the unbearable terror ravaging his body.He inhaled the smell of blood and sweat as he gazed into the darkness, hoping to gain his bearings. Again, a fist smashed into his forehead, slamming the back of his head into the wall behind him as the world faded. He fought his way back to reality, only to stare into the slicing blade carving the side of his face.“DAMNNNNN!” His voice erupted and echoed off the nearby walls and in his head. The pain shattered the remaining will to remain still. He struck out with his head, his arms, and his legs. In return, the hand slammed his head back against the wall again. He forced his mind to stay conscious, as the warm blood flowed from his face. “What do you want from me?”“Satisfaction.”“Satisfaction for what?”“Ruining my life, that’s what!”Another slice sheared off an ear.“OHHH SHIT, stop, please stop. I’ll give you anything you want—anything.”“That’s impossible.” The knife retreated as a face leaned forward, one he recognized only so slightly. “You? Why you crazy—.”A vicious kick to his crotch blasted his tortured soul to new levels. “Oh God, why me? Stop, please stop.”“I know you think you have the balls to do what you want. Being a literary agent doesn’t make you God—you stupid bastard.”The next kick to his crotch made his stomach deliver its contents to his throat. The bitter taste forced a gagging convulsion. He knew then that he was going to die soon. “I’m sorry. I’m—.” “You should’ve thought about your actions earlier.” Another punch to the face bounced his head off the concrete wall. Thoughts of his life rushed forward to fill in the fading minutes. Would his life end like this? His family, his agency, his friends, his clients—what would happen to them? His world collapsed as the remaining blood drained from his body.
Just asking, but after sleeping with a literary agent, shouldn't
you receive more than a form rejection letter?
It might also have helped to know that this want-to-be writer
is bi-polar.
However, she is not the one to be feared most by this agent.
For her anger and zest in destroying his career has created a copycat, a serial
killer with a new target--literary agents.
When a serial killer stalks literary agents, and brutally
kills them, the world of publishing panics with fear as the FBI hunts for the
cold blooded killer, wondering what could cause a person to become such a monster? EXCERPT CHAPTER 1
He envisioned his own tombstone:
Michael Lloyd
Literary Agent Extraordinaire
Killed in the Line of Duty
Damn, he knew he could die any minute. A blurred object moving mere inches in front of his eyes materialized, as a flash of light reflected from the cold steel. Focusing on the razored edge of the curved knife ascending into a sharp tip designed to kill, he stopped breathing. His body stiffened, and froze solid where he sat with his back against a hard cold wall. He felt scared that any movement might further agitate his attacker. The pain radiating from the back of his battered head dulled his vision and his thoughts, as a wire tying his hands together cut into his skin, increasing the unbearable terror ravaging his body.He inhaled the smell of blood and sweat as he gazed into the darkness, hoping to gain his bearings. Again, a fist smashed into his forehead, slamming the back of his head into the wall behind him as the world faded. He fought his way back to reality, only to stare into the slicing blade carving the side of his face.“DAMNNNNN!” His voice erupted and echoed off the nearby walls and in his head. The pain shattered the remaining will to remain still. He struck out with his head, his arms, and his legs. In return, the hand slammed his head back against the wall again. He forced his mind to stay conscious, as the warm blood flowed from his face. “What do you want from me?”“Satisfaction.”“Satisfaction for what?”“Ruining my life, that’s what!”Another slice sheared off an ear.“OHHH SHIT, stop, please stop. I’ll give you anything you want—anything.”“That’s impossible.” The knife retreated as a face leaned forward, one he recognized only so slightly. “You? Why you crazy—.”A vicious kick to his crotch blasted his tortured soul to new levels. “Oh God, why me? Stop, please stop.”“I know you think you have the balls to do what you want. Being a literary agent doesn’t make you God—you stupid bastard.”The next kick to his crotch made his stomach deliver its contents to his throat. The bitter taste forced a gagging convulsion. He knew then that he was going to die soon. “I’m sorry. I’m—.” “You should’ve thought about your actions earlier.” Another punch to the face bounced his head off the concrete wall. Thoughts of his life rushed forward to fill in the fading minutes. Would his life end like this? His family, his agency, his friends, his clients—what would happen to them? His world collapsed as the remaining blood drained from his body.
September 25, 2013
MODELS AND LOVERS -- EXCERPT
MODELS AND LOVERS
A MODERN DAY ROMANCE
SET INSIDE THE WORLD OF MODELING
Is it possible to be the most eligible bachelor forever?
Even in NEW YORK CITY!
And to do so while also owning
the top modeling agency there?
After meeting that one special woman
there are only two question that have to be answered:
Will his ego now prevent him from acknowledging
his true inner feelings?
And will she be able to trust him with her own hidden fears?
EXCERPT
Chapter 1 Balarie Danson’s excited squeal shattered the eerie silence as she flipped the switch to her new office. Suddenly embarrassed by the scream of overflowing joy, she glanced around. She assumed, or at least hoped, no one else worked this late. Finally, she had landed the chance to prove to the fashion world what she could do. After so many years of dedication and struggling to get by, the sweet rewards of her success appeared to be so close that she could almost taste it. She raced around her desk and dove into the dark brown chair on the other side, inhaling its leathery aroma. While nicely furnished with paintings and coordinated artwork, the space still needed her personal touch, which was why she had decided to work late with no one else around to bother her. Balarie glanced at the boxes which contained her personal items such as some awards and photos of her working with various models and designers. While earlier in her career she had initially obtained some modeling work for herself, she had become a master at helping her modeling friends find work, which eventually caught the agency’s attention. Her move from a modeling career to handling other models with one of the best modeling agencies in New York City may have surprised many people, but none more than herself. After walking toward the boxes, she stopped, as the presence of someone standing in her office doorway startled her. She swirled to confront the intruder—her new boss and the owner of the agency bearing his name. “Mr. Conseco! I didn’t know you were here.” Thomas Conseco didn’t smile as he studied her. He looked taller than earlier. Being slightly over six feet herself, Balarie seldom looked up at many guys, especially in the four inch heels she often wore. “I heard someone yell. Was that you?” That’s embarrassing. She decided to be honest. “I’m excited about working here. Sorry, I thought I was alone.” “Good.” The features of his face shifted into the signature smile she remembered from earlier. “I hope your enthusiasm will last after you see how demanding this work can be. And by the way, you can call me Tommy.” “Yes, sir. I mean, Tommy. I hope its okay I came in tonight to get my office ready.” “This isn’t a bad idea. We have a staff meeting at nine tomorrow, and where I’ll be introducing you.” As he stared over the top of his light rose-colored sunglasses, she wondered why he even wore them at night. “I’ll be there. I want to get into my role here as fast as possible.” “You’re going to have your hands full handling some of the male models we represent. Many bookers don’t like working with them. My best advice to you is to find work for your top models before they leave us. You’ll never have a better time to make an impression than now.” “Thanks. I plan to start interviewing all of them as soon as possible. Your agency has a fantastic reputation, and I want to uphold the name as best I can.” The fact he talked to her openly made her feel at ease, but the constant stares confused her. Was he checking her out? She knew she hadn’t dressed in office clothes for the night, but she had never expected to see anyone, especially the owner at this late hour. Tommy, on the other hand, dressed as if he would be the main attraction on a fashion runway. His hair, a dark-brown containing streaks of blond running through it looked gorgeous! The style was a mixture of a professional business man and artistic flare, obviously the creation of a world-class stylist. While many guys showed signs of a five o’clock shadow on their face, Tommy remained clean and neat, showcasing his high cheek bones and rugged jaw lines, the perfect requirements of a male model. At the distance apart from him she couldn’t tell the true color of his eyes but they were light colored and perhaps blue. She suddenly wondered if he had ever modeled himself. “I certainly hope you remember our reputation is on the line every day. I know this is after hours, but any time you come to the agency be sure to dress appropriately. Many times at night we have clients dropping by to check on a shooting. And as you know, there are emergencies that can come up at anytime which have to be handled.” She knew his comments were a polite way to tell her not to dress like this again. She took the message to heart as she started to apologize. He raised his hand to stop her. “I think that will be all. Good luck on getting set up tonight and on your first appearance tomorrow.” As he turned to leave, she studied his suit. She wished she could name the designer, but couldn’t. Whoever it was had tailored him perfectly by highlighting his muscular body underneath the suit. “Thanks, I’m not going to be here long. I hope to make it to the gym tonight. Thank you for the warning about clients coming by late at night. I’ll remember it.” Tommy turned to face Balarie once more. “It’s a little late to work out, but it is better than never. I’ll see to it you receive an invitation to join my sports club.” He paused. “You have a chance to make a name for yourself here. If you do, you’ll also be a large help to our Paris and Milan office. I know you’ll love to see them soon.” Panic swept through her. Going to Paris or Milan was impossible! She had made it through the first thirty years of her life without riding on a plane and had no intention of ever boarding one. Fearing this could cost her this dream job, she decided to hide the fact. Later, much later, she would tell him and hope for the best. She needed to respond, but how? “Before I leave, let me give you one piece of advice the previous owner of this agency gave me when he sold it to me fifteen years ago.” His perfect white teeth glistened as he stepped deeper inside her office. He was either genetically gifted, or they were capped. He raised his fingers in a pyramid in front of his face before he continued. She understood body language enough to recognize the obvious signs of superiority but she expected such from him. She nodded her head in appreciation of his advice, wondering exactly what he planned to say. “He told me the number one piece of advice I needed to stick with involved screwing anyone involved with the agency. This is why I enforce a strict rule against it. I’m sure you remember signing a copy of our policy and procedure manual when you passed through personnel.” “Yes and that makes sense to me.” “It’s much harder than you can imagine, but it becomes easier after you’ve firmly established your name and professionalism.” “I don’t think you have anything to worry about. I don’t date, and I work almost all of the time. My one vice is my physical training. I have to have my work outs.” “Good, I see we share one interest. Since you’re going to be handling the men here, it would be good for you to make contacts with many gyms around the city. You’ll receive a complete list of breakdowns tomorrow on your desk, but you won’t have long to study the information before the meeting.” “Thanks, I’ll do my best.”
Even in NEW YORK CITY!
And to do so while also owning
the top modeling agency there?
After meeting that one special woman
there are only two question that have to be answered:
Will his ego now prevent him from acknowledging
his true inner feelings?
And will she be able to trust him with her own hidden fears?
EXCERPT
Chapter 1 Balarie Danson’s excited squeal shattered the eerie silence as she flipped the switch to her new office. Suddenly embarrassed by the scream of overflowing joy, she glanced around. She assumed, or at least hoped, no one else worked this late. Finally, she had landed the chance to prove to the fashion world what she could do. After so many years of dedication and struggling to get by, the sweet rewards of her success appeared to be so close that she could almost taste it. She raced around her desk and dove into the dark brown chair on the other side, inhaling its leathery aroma. While nicely furnished with paintings and coordinated artwork, the space still needed her personal touch, which was why she had decided to work late with no one else around to bother her. Balarie glanced at the boxes which contained her personal items such as some awards and photos of her working with various models and designers. While earlier in her career she had initially obtained some modeling work for herself, she had become a master at helping her modeling friends find work, which eventually caught the agency’s attention. Her move from a modeling career to handling other models with one of the best modeling agencies in New York City may have surprised many people, but none more than herself. After walking toward the boxes, she stopped, as the presence of someone standing in her office doorway startled her. She swirled to confront the intruder—her new boss and the owner of the agency bearing his name. “Mr. Conseco! I didn’t know you were here.” Thomas Conseco didn’t smile as he studied her. He looked taller than earlier. Being slightly over six feet herself, Balarie seldom looked up at many guys, especially in the four inch heels she often wore. “I heard someone yell. Was that you?” That’s embarrassing. She decided to be honest. “I’m excited about working here. Sorry, I thought I was alone.” “Good.” The features of his face shifted into the signature smile she remembered from earlier. “I hope your enthusiasm will last after you see how demanding this work can be. And by the way, you can call me Tommy.” “Yes, sir. I mean, Tommy. I hope its okay I came in tonight to get my office ready.” “This isn’t a bad idea. We have a staff meeting at nine tomorrow, and where I’ll be introducing you.” As he stared over the top of his light rose-colored sunglasses, she wondered why he even wore them at night. “I’ll be there. I want to get into my role here as fast as possible.” “You’re going to have your hands full handling some of the male models we represent. Many bookers don’t like working with them. My best advice to you is to find work for your top models before they leave us. You’ll never have a better time to make an impression than now.” “Thanks. I plan to start interviewing all of them as soon as possible. Your agency has a fantastic reputation, and I want to uphold the name as best I can.” The fact he talked to her openly made her feel at ease, but the constant stares confused her. Was he checking her out? She knew she hadn’t dressed in office clothes for the night, but she had never expected to see anyone, especially the owner at this late hour. Tommy, on the other hand, dressed as if he would be the main attraction on a fashion runway. His hair, a dark-brown containing streaks of blond running through it looked gorgeous! The style was a mixture of a professional business man and artistic flare, obviously the creation of a world-class stylist. While many guys showed signs of a five o’clock shadow on their face, Tommy remained clean and neat, showcasing his high cheek bones and rugged jaw lines, the perfect requirements of a male model. At the distance apart from him she couldn’t tell the true color of his eyes but they were light colored and perhaps blue. She suddenly wondered if he had ever modeled himself. “I certainly hope you remember our reputation is on the line every day. I know this is after hours, but any time you come to the agency be sure to dress appropriately. Many times at night we have clients dropping by to check on a shooting. And as you know, there are emergencies that can come up at anytime which have to be handled.” She knew his comments were a polite way to tell her not to dress like this again. She took the message to heart as she started to apologize. He raised his hand to stop her. “I think that will be all. Good luck on getting set up tonight and on your first appearance tomorrow.” As he turned to leave, she studied his suit. She wished she could name the designer, but couldn’t. Whoever it was had tailored him perfectly by highlighting his muscular body underneath the suit. “Thanks, I’m not going to be here long. I hope to make it to the gym tonight. Thank you for the warning about clients coming by late at night. I’ll remember it.” Tommy turned to face Balarie once more. “It’s a little late to work out, but it is better than never. I’ll see to it you receive an invitation to join my sports club.” He paused. “You have a chance to make a name for yourself here. If you do, you’ll also be a large help to our Paris and Milan office. I know you’ll love to see them soon.” Panic swept through her. Going to Paris or Milan was impossible! She had made it through the first thirty years of her life without riding on a plane and had no intention of ever boarding one. Fearing this could cost her this dream job, she decided to hide the fact. Later, much later, she would tell him and hope for the best. She needed to respond, but how? “Before I leave, let me give you one piece of advice the previous owner of this agency gave me when he sold it to me fifteen years ago.” His perfect white teeth glistened as he stepped deeper inside her office. He was either genetically gifted, or they were capped. He raised his fingers in a pyramid in front of his face before he continued. She understood body language enough to recognize the obvious signs of superiority but she expected such from him. She nodded her head in appreciation of his advice, wondering exactly what he planned to say. “He told me the number one piece of advice I needed to stick with involved screwing anyone involved with the agency. This is why I enforce a strict rule against it. I’m sure you remember signing a copy of our policy and procedure manual when you passed through personnel.” “Yes and that makes sense to me.” “It’s much harder than you can imagine, but it becomes easier after you’ve firmly established your name and professionalism.” “I don’t think you have anything to worry about. I don’t date, and I work almost all of the time. My one vice is my physical training. I have to have my work outs.” “Good, I see we share one interest. Since you’re going to be handling the men here, it would be good for you to make contacts with many gyms around the city. You’ll receive a complete list of breakdowns tomorrow on your desk, but you won’t have long to study the information before the meeting.” “Thanks, I’ll do my best.”
September 24, 2013
HER HONOR'S BODYGUARD -- EXCERPT
HER HONOR'S BODYGUARD Do first loves ever really die? While reunions can take many forms, there is always one question that has to be answered sooner or later—what happened?
EXCERPT “Is anyone here,” she shouted, as the sparsely furnished room allowed her voice to echo. When she suddenly heard a bump coming from a side room, she realized that someone was there after all. She straightened her back and waited.The door swung open and in walked Vance who was wearing gym shorts and a muscle type t-shirt. The sweat glistening on his skin highlighted his rock hard body. Damn, she knew she shouldn’t stare, but he looked hot. As her heart raced, she refocused on his eyes which were attempting to make contact with hers.After several long agonizing seconds, he pulled the door closed behind him. “Hello, Noella, or should I call you judge here also?” “Vance, this isn’t my courtroom, so you know you don’t have to call me judge.” This was difficult for her, and it appeared that he wanted to make the moment as tough as he could for her. “I need to talk to you. Vance, I need your help.”“My help?”“I know you’re mad at me, and for good reason. But . . . what you don’t know is what I’ve recently found out. I highly suspect that you were framed.”Vance strolled over to his desk as she watched his movements. Memories of her making love to him many years ago resurfaced. He looked even better than she could remember.If he thought he could turn on any kind of recording device—well, forget it. “I don’t know. Maybe this was a bad idea.” She hesitated, hunting for the right words. “But I remember you from back in law school. You were the one who always held the ethical high road, and I always respected that.”Vance pointed to a chair for her to use, but he remained silent. His solid black hair had become slightly longer over the last year, and it now reached closer to his shoulders. His deep, penetrating, almost wolf-like, grey eyes had retained their effectiveness in unsettling her. She forced herself to speak slowly. “I need to hire a private detective to do some work for me and keep it quiet. I might also need some protective services, if you are available.”Vance motioned again for her to have a seat, but didn’t wait for her as he slipped into his chair. “How did you find me? I don’t advertise, and I take on only a select number of clients.”“I understand how you’re keeping a low profile. You really made some enemies in the police department.”“Not everything is as it appears. I still have some friends there.” He grabbed a towel, and wiped sweat from his neck. “You’ll have to excuse me, I just started working out.” He pointed to the side door. “My gym.”“It’s good to see that you stay in shape—it shows.” Perhaps she didn’t need to make such a comment. The short fling they had earlier had ended years ago, and there was no sense in reuniting those memories now. But . . . how could she ignore his body that he flaunted in front of her?“I’m sure there’re many competent people you can work with around town.”As she allowed herself to breathe, the scent of his workout sweat reached her, making it harder to hide her emotions. She had to act professionally, she had to. “I’ve been getting threatening calls and messages.”He smirked. “That sounds like something you can turn over to the police.”“I have talked to them and I’ve gotten nowhere. The only comments that I have received from them is that maybe if I can’t take the heat of being a judge that just maybe I should think about stepping down.”“How are you being contacted?”“Phone calls with hang ups. People in the distance studying me. Cars following me. Nothing I can use to charge anyone with. It’s as if they know the limits, and stay slightly outside them.”He hesitated this time before he asked, “Again . . . have you had any direct threats?”“If I did, I could have better protection from the Tampa police and the state, but I don’t. Vance, this is why I would like to hire you.”“You mentioned that you thought I was framed.”“Thinking and proving are two different things. Listen, we both know that I shouldn’t be discussing this with you.”“As you probably remember, about a year ago I was advancing with the police department and getting close to obtaining funds for me to go back to law school. That was before you stepped in.” His eyes refocused on her, and immediately increased the stress ravaging her body.“I know, and I’m sorry. I’m sure that you think I’m the reason that you lost your job. What you don’t know is that I’m the one who stopped you from being prosecuted.”“So you struck a deal without even consulting me.”“You know this can never leave this room.”Without acknowledging her comment, he continued, “You mentioned that you have new evidence. Are you going to tell me what it is?”“In time—yes. I came here because I thought I could trust you. If you don’t want to help me, I understand. But . . . if that is the way you feel, I don’t see any reason in telling you anymore details about what’s happening to me.”
EXCERPT “Is anyone here,” she shouted, as the sparsely furnished room allowed her voice to echo. When she suddenly heard a bump coming from a side room, she realized that someone was there after all. She straightened her back and waited.The door swung open and in walked Vance who was wearing gym shorts and a muscle type t-shirt. The sweat glistening on his skin highlighted his rock hard body. Damn, she knew she shouldn’t stare, but he looked hot. As her heart raced, she refocused on his eyes which were attempting to make contact with hers.After several long agonizing seconds, he pulled the door closed behind him. “Hello, Noella, or should I call you judge here also?” “Vance, this isn’t my courtroom, so you know you don’t have to call me judge.” This was difficult for her, and it appeared that he wanted to make the moment as tough as he could for her. “I need to talk to you. Vance, I need your help.”“My help?”“I know you’re mad at me, and for good reason. But . . . what you don’t know is what I’ve recently found out. I highly suspect that you were framed.”Vance strolled over to his desk as she watched his movements. Memories of her making love to him many years ago resurfaced. He looked even better than she could remember.If he thought he could turn on any kind of recording device—well, forget it. “I don’t know. Maybe this was a bad idea.” She hesitated, hunting for the right words. “But I remember you from back in law school. You were the one who always held the ethical high road, and I always respected that.”Vance pointed to a chair for her to use, but he remained silent. His solid black hair had become slightly longer over the last year, and it now reached closer to his shoulders. His deep, penetrating, almost wolf-like, grey eyes had retained their effectiveness in unsettling her. She forced herself to speak slowly. “I need to hire a private detective to do some work for me and keep it quiet. I might also need some protective services, if you are available.”Vance motioned again for her to have a seat, but didn’t wait for her as he slipped into his chair. “How did you find me? I don’t advertise, and I take on only a select number of clients.”“I understand how you’re keeping a low profile. You really made some enemies in the police department.”“Not everything is as it appears. I still have some friends there.” He grabbed a towel, and wiped sweat from his neck. “You’ll have to excuse me, I just started working out.” He pointed to the side door. “My gym.”“It’s good to see that you stay in shape—it shows.” Perhaps she didn’t need to make such a comment. The short fling they had earlier had ended years ago, and there was no sense in reuniting those memories now. But . . . how could she ignore his body that he flaunted in front of her?“I’m sure there’re many competent people you can work with around town.”As she allowed herself to breathe, the scent of his workout sweat reached her, making it harder to hide her emotions. She had to act professionally, she had to. “I’ve been getting threatening calls and messages.”He smirked. “That sounds like something you can turn over to the police.”“I have talked to them and I’ve gotten nowhere. The only comments that I have received from them is that maybe if I can’t take the heat of being a judge that just maybe I should think about stepping down.”“How are you being contacted?”“Phone calls with hang ups. People in the distance studying me. Cars following me. Nothing I can use to charge anyone with. It’s as if they know the limits, and stay slightly outside them.”He hesitated this time before he asked, “Again . . . have you had any direct threats?”“If I did, I could have better protection from the Tampa police and the state, but I don’t. Vance, this is why I would like to hire you.”“You mentioned that you thought I was framed.”“Thinking and proving are two different things. Listen, we both know that I shouldn’t be discussing this with you.”“As you probably remember, about a year ago I was advancing with the police department and getting close to obtaining funds for me to go back to law school. That was before you stepped in.” His eyes refocused on her, and immediately increased the stress ravaging her body.“I know, and I’m sorry. I’m sure that you think I’m the reason that you lost your job. What you don’t know is that I’m the one who stopped you from being prosecuted.”“So you struck a deal without even consulting me.”“You know this can never leave this room.”Without acknowledging her comment, he continued, “You mentioned that you have new evidence. Are you going to tell me what it is?”“In time—yes. I came here because I thought I could trust you. If you don’t want to help me, I understand. But . . . if that is the way you feel, I don’t see any reason in telling you anymore details about what’s happening to me.”
September 23, 2013
FOR LOVE AND VENGEANCE -- EXCERPT
FOR LOVE AND VENGEANCE
AN INTERNATIONAL ROMANTIC THRILLER
When everyone lies to you—trust your gut instinct
If that fails—start over
For your love deserves the best
And murderous terrorist your vengeance
May God have mercy on their soul
EXCERPT
Then−Royce felt the bump. “What the hell.” The feel of the shark registered immediately. It wasn’t the first time he had felt a bump from a shark in his life. As he jerked around and studied the size of the retreating shadow, his survival mode sent adrenalin rushing though his body. Control. He had to be smart. He glanced over at the girl. He knew she saw the shark also. He glanced around again. They were the only ones in sight, and the beach was over one hundred yards away. “DON’T MOVE!” Whoever she was, she was in more danger than she realized. “WHAT DO WE DO?” she screamed back at him. Ten yards separated them. “Place your hands and feet on the board. Don’t move. PLAY DEAD!” “Ohmigod! It’s huge.” Her voice trembled, as she complied. While he knew it was large, he didn’t know for sure what kind of shark it was. This was a different ocean for him. He continued to glance around, but saw no other signs of the shark. He saw her crying. “Hey, listen to me, you have to stay still.” He knew she had to be too scared to even reply. He wanted to get closer to her, but couldn’t chance putting his arm in the water. “Hang in there. We might be here for a while.” After ten minutes of searching for any more signs of the shark, Royce waved over at her. “Are you okay? “Nooooooooo!” “We need to head in. Once we get started, we need to get all of the way into the beach. Move smoothly and try not to attract attention. The shark may still be close. I’ll stay next to you. Let me know when you’re ready.” When he saw a good wave approaching, he waved at her to turn her board toward the beach. He could see her trembling, but concentrating on his directions. “You’re doing fine.” She didn’t respond but moved forward, catching the wave. Her own adrenalin must have been kicking in, as he watched her mount the wave. He joined her easily. Just give us a few more seconds and we’ll be out of this. Foam covered the beach line, as they splashed in the shallow water coming ashore. She jumped off the board, and ran onto the beach, pulling the board behind her by the line. He followed behind her. On the shore, they both looked back out at the ocean. “Holly shit! Did you see the size of that shark.” she yelled, and pointed out at the sea, as she continued to jump up and down. Royce watched her movements carefully, hoping she could hold it together. The adrenalin had to be blasting through her system right now. “Yes. I felt the shark bump me. Are you okay?” “No.” She looked back at him. “I’m not okay.” Royce saw her weakening, and helped move her to her towel as she started crying into her hands. He remained next to her, and wrapped an arm around her. “We’re safe now.” She continued to cry, as he felt her trembling. He knew it wasn’t a good time to tell her that he had experienced many sharks in the water before. He held her for a long time before he realized that he didn’t even know her name. Finally, she glanced at him, and smiled. “I guess I need to thank you. If you hadn’t been in the water to tell me what to do, I know it could have been all over for me.” “You did great.” He moved over to her and hugged her around the shoulders again. Being this close to him she looked even better, but now vulnerable. He didn’t want her to be apprehensive of a stranger taking liberties at a time like this, but wanted to let her know that she was safe now. “I need a drink.” She lowered her shoulders, and stumbled. Royce moved fast, catching her before she fell. When she recovered, she continued, “Thanks, you might want to make that a double.” “I can fully understand that.” He laughed, and brushed his hair back. To him, it was amazing that she could think of a joke line at a time like this. “What kind would you like?” She forced a small laugh. “I was going to a wine tasting tonight. However, right now I could use anything.” “I like good wine. Where’s the tasting?” He stayed close to her, not sure if she had recovered fully, or not. “It’s at new place called the Wine Castle.” She raised her head and inhaled. “You should try it.” “I’m not from here, but I think I can find it.” He felt her gaining her strength, and released his arm from behind her shoulders. “It sounds like exactly what I need right now.” “Good. I need to go. I hope to see you shortly.” She smiled, as her breathing returned to normal. “Me too. Are you sure you’re okay?” With his eyes focusing on her, he looked for any more signs of weakness. “Yes, and thank you again.” She turned toward the condos. “If you could walk me to my car, it would be great.” “I’ll be glad to.” He reached behind her, and lifted her board before he examined her body again. She looked great.
If that fails—start over
For your love deserves the best
And murderous terrorist your vengeance
May God have mercy on their soul
EXCERPT
Then−Royce felt the bump. “What the hell.” The feel of the shark registered immediately. It wasn’t the first time he had felt a bump from a shark in his life. As he jerked around and studied the size of the retreating shadow, his survival mode sent adrenalin rushing though his body. Control. He had to be smart. He glanced over at the girl. He knew she saw the shark also. He glanced around again. They were the only ones in sight, and the beach was over one hundred yards away. “DON’T MOVE!” Whoever she was, she was in more danger than she realized. “WHAT DO WE DO?” she screamed back at him. Ten yards separated them. “Place your hands and feet on the board. Don’t move. PLAY DEAD!” “Ohmigod! It’s huge.” Her voice trembled, as she complied. While he knew it was large, he didn’t know for sure what kind of shark it was. This was a different ocean for him. He continued to glance around, but saw no other signs of the shark. He saw her crying. “Hey, listen to me, you have to stay still.” He knew she had to be too scared to even reply. He wanted to get closer to her, but couldn’t chance putting his arm in the water. “Hang in there. We might be here for a while.” After ten minutes of searching for any more signs of the shark, Royce waved over at her. “Are you okay? “Nooooooooo!” “We need to head in. Once we get started, we need to get all of the way into the beach. Move smoothly and try not to attract attention. The shark may still be close. I’ll stay next to you. Let me know when you’re ready.” When he saw a good wave approaching, he waved at her to turn her board toward the beach. He could see her trembling, but concentrating on his directions. “You’re doing fine.” She didn’t respond but moved forward, catching the wave. Her own adrenalin must have been kicking in, as he watched her mount the wave. He joined her easily. Just give us a few more seconds and we’ll be out of this. Foam covered the beach line, as they splashed in the shallow water coming ashore. She jumped off the board, and ran onto the beach, pulling the board behind her by the line. He followed behind her. On the shore, they both looked back out at the ocean. “Holly shit! Did you see the size of that shark.” she yelled, and pointed out at the sea, as she continued to jump up and down. Royce watched her movements carefully, hoping she could hold it together. The adrenalin had to be blasting through her system right now. “Yes. I felt the shark bump me. Are you okay?” “No.” She looked back at him. “I’m not okay.” Royce saw her weakening, and helped move her to her towel as she started crying into her hands. He remained next to her, and wrapped an arm around her. “We’re safe now.” She continued to cry, as he felt her trembling. He knew it wasn’t a good time to tell her that he had experienced many sharks in the water before. He held her for a long time before he realized that he didn’t even know her name. Finally, she glanced at him, and smiled. “I guess I need to thank you. If you hadn’t been in the water to tell me what to do, I know it could have been all over for me.” “You did great.” He moved over to her and hugged her around the shoulders again. Being this close to him she looked even better, but now vulnerable. He didn’t want her to be apprehensive of a stranger taking liberties at a time like this, but wanted to let her know that she was safe now. “I need a drink.” She lowered her shoulders, and stumbled. Royce moved fast, catching her before she fell. When she recovered, she continued, “Thanks, you might want to make that a double.” “I can fully understand that.” He laughed, and brushed his hair back. To him, it was amazing that she could think of a joke line at a time like this. “What kind would you like?” She forced a small laugh. “I was going to a wine tasting tonight. However, right now I could use anything.” “I like good wine. Where’s the tasting?” He stayed close to her, not sure if she had recovered fully, or not. “It’s at new place called the Wine Castle.” She raised her head and inhaled. “You should try it.” “I’m not from here, but I think I can find it.” He felt her gaining her strength, and released his arm from behind her shoulders. “It sounds like exactly what I need right now.” “Good. I need to go. I hope to see you shortly.” She smiled, as her breathing returned to normal. “Me too. Are you sure you’re okay?” With his eyes focusing on her, he looked for any more signs of weakness. “Yes, and thank you again.” She turned toward the condos. “If you could walk me to my car, it would be great.” “I’ll be glad to.” He reached behind her, and lifted her board before he examined her body again. She looked great.
