Té Russ's Blog, page 9
March 26, 2016
Good morning my loves! Here is the final excerpt I'll be ...
Good morning my loves! Here is the final excerpt I'll be sharing from Just One Touch. I don't have an official release date, but I'm hoping to get this book to you all no later than mid-April.
Until then, I hope you enjoy this excerpt, and after you're down reading, keep scrolling to find a surprise!
*Unedited, subject to change*
The softness of a rose petal slowly glided up and down his neck and back once...twice...and a third time, causing him to stir slightly.When the petal was replaced with lips just as soft, his body began to awaken even more, including the area between his legs."Ethan," she purred seductively in his ear. When he felt her teeth gently bite into his shoulder, he groaned into his pillow, then finally rolled on to his back. He smiled when he looked up to see Savannah over him, wearing his dress shirt with the buttons undone and barely covering her breasts."You're going to have me exhausted on my first day of this job trial run.""Mmmm," she moaned as she slid her body on top of his, straddling his lap. She leaned down and kissed his chin, then traced her lips across his jaw up to his ear. "This is your fault," she whispered. "If you hadn't been so eager to make a good impression with my family by going to that charity ball, we could have gotten started much earlier.""So this is my fault?" he said, his voice ragged as she kissed his collar bone and then moved down to his pecs. "Are you punishing me?""I guess you could say that," she said, with a naughty grin, before her tongue flicked out and made contact with his nipple."If..." His voice actually trembled. "If you're upset about having to go to the ball last night, I guess you don't want to know what I won for you at the silent auction."At those words, Savannah sat back up.A silent auction was held during the charity ball every year."You bid on something?" she asked."Sure, I did," he replied. He was trying to gain his composure, but it was hard to focus on anything accept for the sweetness between her legs. All he had to do was move slightly and he would be able to slide inside of her. "And I won.""What is it?" she asked."I don't think I want to tell you anymore," he teased."Oh really," she said, crossing her arms over her chest."Really." She was driving him mad, especially the way her breast were pressed together and jutting up above her arms. He wanted to reach up and give them a good squeeze before pulling them into his mouth.He watched as her lips spread into a devious smirk and he knew he was in trouble. She unfolded her arms. "I could always...draw it out of you," she said, innocently, as her hand wrapped around his manhood."You don't play fair," he groaned, loving the way she stroked him from the base of his dick all the way up to the tip."All's fair in love and war, sweetheart," she gloated.He was putty in her hands as he whispered, "Look in your purse."She stopped her ministrations and he wished he hadn't given in so quickly. She continued staring at him confused, as she said, "My purse?""Just go look," he said, gently smacking her on her back side.She got up from his lap and he immediately missed the connection. She hurried over to her purse, opened it and gasped."You didn't!" she cried out as she pulled a diamond necklace out."You're holding it aren't you?"She looked from the necklace to him. "Ethan...""I saw you had your eye on it when we were looking at the items up for bid. And I knew you'd never bid on it for yourself, so..." he shrugged as he lifted his arms and rested them behind his head."I never saw you bid on it.""I did it while you were chatting with that artist, who donating one of her sculptures to the auction.""Elizabeth Parker," Savannah murmured absently, staring at the necklace. "She donates a sculpture or painting almost every year. She's John's wife, the one who catered the ball. They're old friends of the family."He watched as she looked up at him again. "When did you slip it in my purse?" she asked."When you took off to the bathroom with your sister," he said. "You left your purse.""That's right, I did."Ethan sat up, with his back against the headboard and said, "Are you just gonna stand there staring at it for the rest of the night, or are you gonna get over here and let me see how you look wearing it...and nothing else?"Savannah smiled, then shrugged out of his shirt, letting it fall to the floor before she walked over to him. Once she was straddling him again, he took the necklace from her and latched it on."How does it look?" she asked, touching the three diamonds that rested in the drop setting."Absolutely stunning.""Are you referring to the necklace or me?" she asked, resting her hand on his shoulders."You."She pushed him onto his back, then reached over and grabbed a condom off of the nightstand."The necklace is stunning too," she said, tearing open the condom."If you like it..." the air hissed from his teeth as her fingers delicately rolled the condom down. "...then I love it.""I love it," she said, taking him in her hands. "Let me show you how much."She sank on to him, rolling her hips as she worked her way down until they were connected. She leaned forward, pressing her breasts against his chest and she reached for his hands, interlocking their fingers together above his head.Her silky heat milked him over and over and he was held captive to her. She was in control now and he loved every damn minute of it.She sat up again and released his hand as she began bouncing up and down on him wildly, and he gripped her hips, holding on as she rode him furiously.He watched as her head fell back as she moaned loudly. Her walls clenched around him and he exploded inside of her.She fell forward collapsing on top of him. His sweet Savvy had woken up ravenous. And clearly she'd gotten her fill.He looked at the clock on the night stand. He had to be up in a few hours. But at the moment, nothing else mattered, except for the woman in his arms.
____________
Are you still here? Good! Here's your surprise!
Until then, I hope you enjoy this excerpt, and after you're down reading, keep scrolling to find a surprise!
*Unedited, subject to change*The softness of a rose petal slowly glided up and down his neck and back once...twice...and a third time, causing him to stir slightly.When the petal was replaced with lips just as soft, his body began to awaken even more, including the area between his legs."Ethan," she purred seductively in his ear. When he felt her teeth gently bite into his shoulder, he groaned into his pillow, then finally rolled on to his back. He smiled when he looked up to see Savannah over him, wearing his dress shirt with the buttons undone and barely covering her breasts."You're going to have me exhausted on my first day of this job trial run.""Mmmm," she moaned as she slid her body on top of his, straddling his lap. She leaned down and kissed his chin, then traced her lips across his jaw up to his ear. "This is your fault," she whispered. "If you hadn't been so eager to make a good impression with my family by going to that charity ball, we could have gotten started much earlier.""So this is my fault?" he said, his voice ragged as she kissed his collar bone and then moved down to his pecs. "Are you punishing me?""I guess you could say that," she said, with a naughty grin, before her tongue flicked out and made contact with his nipple."If..." His voice actually trembled. "If you're upset about having to go to the ball last night, I guess you don't want to know what I won for you at the silent auction."At those words, Savannah sat back up.A silent auction was held during the charity ball every year."You bid on something?" she asked."Sure, I did," he replied. He was trying to gain his composure, but it was hard to focus on anything accept for the sweetness between her legs. All he had to do was move slightly and he would be able to slide inside of her. "And I won.""What is it?" she asked."I don't think I want to tell you anymore," he teased."Oh really," she said, crossing her arms over her chest."Really." She was driving him mad, especially the way her breast were pressed together and jutting up above her arms. He wanted to reach up and give them a good squeeze before pulling them into his mouth.He watched as her lips spread into a devious smirk and he knew he was in trouble. She unfolded her arms. "I could always...draw it out of you," she said, innocently, as her hand wrapped around his manhood."You don't play fair," he groaned, loving the way she stroked him from the base of his dick all the way up to the tip."All's fair in love and war, sweetheart," she gloated.He was putty in her hands as he whispered, "Look in your purse."She stopped her ministrations and he wished he hadn't given in so quickly. She continued staring at him confused, as she said, "My purse?""Just go look," he said, gently smacking her on her back side.She got up from his lap and he immediately missed the connection. She hurried over to her purse, opened it and gasped."You didn't!" she cried out as she pulled a diamond necklace out."You're holding it aren't you?"She looked from the necklace to him. "Ethan...""I saw you had your eye on it when we were looking at the items up for bid. And I knew you'd never bid on it for yourself, so..." he shrugged as he lifted his arms and rested them behind his head."I never saw you bid on it.""I did it while you were chatting with that artist, who donating one of her sculptures to the auction.""Elizabeth Parker," Savannah murmured absently, staring at the necklace. "She donates a sculpture or painting almost every year. She's John's wife, the one who catered the ball. They're old friends of the family."He watched as she looked up at him again. "When did you slip it in my purse?" she asked."When you took off to the bathroom with your sister," he said. "You left your purse.""That's right, I did."Ethan sat up, with his back against the headboard and said, "Are you just gonna stand there staring at it for the rest of the night, or are you gonna get over here and let me see how you look wearing it...and nothing else?"Savannah smiled, then shrugged out of his shirt, letting it fall to the floor before she walked over to him. Once she was straddling him again, he took the necklace from her and latched it on."How does it look?" she asked, touching the three diamonds that rested in the drop setting."Absolutely stunning.""Are you referring to the necklace or me?" she asked, resting her hand on his shoulders."You."She pushed him onto his back, then reached over and grabbed a condom off of the nightstand."The necklace is stunning too," she said, tearing open the condom."If you like it..." the air hissed from his teeth as her fingers delicately rolled the condom down. "...then I love it.""I love it," she said, taking him in her hands. "Let me show you how much."She sank on to him, rolling her hips as she worked her way down until they were connected. She leaned forward, pressing her breasts against his chest and she reached for his hands, interlocking their fingers together above his head.Her silky heat milked him over and over and he was held captive to her. She was in control now and he loved every damn minute of it.She sat up again and released his hand as she began bouncing up and down on him wildly, and he gripped her hips, holding on as she rode him furiously.He watched as her head fell back as she moaned loudly. Her walls clenched around him and he exploded inside of her.She fell forward collapsing on top of him. His sweet Savvy had woken up ravenous. And clearly she'd gotten her fill.He looked at the clock on the night stand. He had to be up in a few hours. But at the moment, nothing else mattered, except for the woman in his arms.
____________
Are you still here? Good! Here's your surprise!
March 20, 2016
Sample Sunday: Never Can Say Goodbye
From Just One Tocuh, coming soon.
*unedited*
Finally, he left the room and went down the hall where he found Savannah in her room. Her back was to him, but he could hear her sniffling and noticed her hands trembling as she zipped up her suitcase. He knocked on her door and she wiped her face quickly before turning around. She gave him a watery smile as she asked, "Is he sleep?"Ethan nodded. "Yeah, he's been sleep for a while.""That's good. At least one of us will get a good night's rest," she murmured, before turning back to her bag. "All this time I was fussing at him to get his bag packed and look at me. Waiting until the last minute."She was rambling, he noticed.He took a step into the room. "Looks like you're done.""Finally," she said, attempting to smile again. "Thanks to Connie, I'm having to take a whole other suitcase." She reached for the bag, and Ethan grabbed it for her."I'll move that."He placed the bag by the door and when he turned to Savannah again, tears were streaming down her face.She shook her head, letting out a dismal laugh. "I've had this silly notion in my head, that tomorrow before we got on the plane, you'd stop us and beg us to stay. But that's something that just happens in romance novels or movies.""You don't know how many times I've talked myself out of doing exactly what you just said."Savannah's head snapped up. "What?""I don't want you to go, Savvy," Ethan admitted. "I've wanted to ask you to stay another week, but then I'd want you to stay another week after that and then another, until finally I'd ask you to never leave. And it wouldn't be fair of me to ask you to completely uproot your and Ethan's entire life in New York.""I didn't imagine this would be so hard," Savannah whispered.He reached out and pulled her into his arms. "Neither did I."They stood standing in each other's arms for a long moment, before Savannah pulled away."I have something for you," she said, picking up a book off of the bed."What is this?" he asked, when she handed it to him."Open it."He opened the book to the first page and realized it was a photo album. The first photo was a sonogram."A lot of these you've seen," Savannah said, as he turned the pages. "I sent you copies in my letters."He smiled as he continued looking through the album, watching their son grow up through photos.His breath was taken away when he got to a page and saw a photo of him and EJ sleeping on the couch together."You..." he cleared his throat. "You added pictures of me in here.""Of course I did," Savannah said. "You're in our life now. We're a family."As she called them a family, he got to the photo she taken of the three of them on the Galaxy Wheel at Pleasure Pier.He blinked away the tears that threatened to spill before he sat the book down and pulled Savannah into his arms."Thank you, Savvy," he whispered in her ear. "This is the best gift anyone has given me. Besides our son, of course.""You're welcome," she whispered back. Then he leaned down and kissed her. He knew it would be one of the last times he'd kiss her for quite a while, so he took his time, savoring the sweetness of her mouth.Finally, he pulled away and said, "You should get some rest before tomorrow."She nodded and they said their goodnights before he left her room.Savannah had set up the room next to hers, and he soon realized how thin the walls were. After tossing and turning for a several hours, he realized he could hear Savannah in her room.She was crying again.
Unable to stop himself, he got up and went back to her room. He found her curled in a ball on her side, her body shaking as she tried to muffle her sobs. He lifted the covers, slid underneath them and wrapped his arms around her.
*unedited*Finally, he left the room and went down the hall where he found Savannah in her room. Her back was to him, but he could hear her sniffling and noticed her hands trembling as she zipped up her suitcase. He knocked on her door and she wiped her face quickly before turning around. She gave him a watery smile as she asked, "Is he sleep?"Ethan nodded. "Yeah, he's been sleep for a while.""That's good. At least one of us will get a good night's rest," she murmured, before turning back to her bag. "All this time I was fussing at him to get his bag packed and look at me. Waiting until the last minute."She was rambling, he noticed.He took a step into the room. "Looks like you're done.""Finally," she said, attempting to smile again. "Thanks to Connie, I'm having to take a whole other suitcase." She reached for the bag, and Ethan grabbed it for her."I'll move that."He placed the bag by the door and when he turned to Savannah again, tears were streaming down her face.She shook her head, letting out a dismal laugh. "I've had this silly notion in my head, that tomorrow before we got on the plane, you'd stop us and beg us to stay. But that's something that just happens in romance novels or movies.""You don't know how many times I've talked myself out of doing exactly what you just said."Savannah's head snapped up. "What?""I don't want you to go, Savvy," Ethan admitted. "I've wanted to ask you to stay another week, but then I'd want you to stay another week after that and then another, until finally I'd ask you to never leave. And it wouldn't be fair of me to ask you to completely uproot your and Ethan's entire life in New York.""I didn't imagine this would be so hard," Savannah whispered.He reached out and pulled her into his arms. "Neither did I."They stood standing in each other's arms for a long moment, before Savannah pulled away."I have something for you," she said, picking up a book off of the bed."What is this?" he asked, when she handed it to him."Open it."He opened the book to the first page and realized it was a photo album. The first photo was a sonogram."A lot of these you've seen," Savannah said, as he turned the pages. "I sent you copies in my letters."He smiled as he continued looking through the album, watching their son grow up through photos.His breath was taken away when he got to a page and saw a photo of him and EJ sleeping on the couch together."You..." he cleared his throat. "You added pictures of me in here.""Of course I did," Savannah said. "You're in our life now. We're a family."As she called them a family, he got to the photo she taken of the three of them on the Galaxy Wheel at Pleasure Pier.He blinked away the tears that threatened to spill before he sat the book down and pulled Savannah into his arms."Thank you, Savvy," he whispered in her ear. "This is the best gift anyone has given me. Besides our son, of course.""You're welcome," she whispered back. Then he leaned down and kissed her. He knew it would be one of the last times he'd kiss her for quite a while, so he took his time, savoring the sweetness of her mouth.Finally, he pulled away and said, "You should get some rest before tomorrow."She nodded and they said their goodnights before he left her room.Savannah had set up the room next to hers, and he soon realized how thin the walls were. After tossing and turning for a several hours, he realized he could hear Savannah in her room.She was crying again.
Unable to stop himself, he got up and went back to her room. He found her curled in a ball on her side, her body shaking as she tried to muffle her sobs. He lifted the covers, slid underneath them and wrapped his arms around her.
February 14, 2016
Sample Sunday: from Just One Touch
Savannah soon discovered that Ethan's barbecue was as good as it looked. She couldn't stop raving about his skills on the grill all during their meal."Are you sure you don't want anymore food?" Ethan asked later that evening.Savannah shook her head adamantly. "I already ate too much," she sat patting her stomach. "I'm stuffed."Ethan stood and gathered the plates from the table and Savannah stood as well. "I'll take care of these," she said, taking the plates from his hands."Are you sure?" Ethan asked."Of course. You made this great meal for EJ and I. Besides, you've still got all of those leftovers to take in as well. If we work together, we'll get done faster." Savannah turned and Ethan watched the sway of her hips in her dress as she made her way into the house. When he felt a tug on his pant leg, he looked down to see EJ looking up at him."What's up son?" Ethan asked EJ."What are we gonna do now?" the boy asked.Ethan was caught off guard by EJ's question. He hadn't really planned anything else beyond dinner."I...I don't know actually," Ethan admitted. "What do you want to do?"EJ thought about it for a moment then asked, "Can we watch a movie?"Ethan grinned as he grabbed the leftovers. "You know what, that sounds like a great idea."They entered the kitchen and Ethan found Savannah filling the sink with water."You don't have to do that, Savvy," he said."There aren't that many," she said. "It won't take much time."Ethan sat the platter of food on the island and said, "EJ suggested watching a movie. Is that cool with you?""Sure," she said, looking over her shoulder. Ethan walked over to her and shut the water off. "We can take care of this later.""Yeah, mommy," EJ said, taking one of Savannah and Ethan's hands in each of his. "It's movie time!"He tugged them into to the living room and plopped down on the couch and Ethan joined him. As he grabbed the remote and turned the tv on, he noticed Savannah preparing to sit in a large chair across from them."Mommy," EJ said. "Come sit with us."Savannah froze for a moment, then her eyes locked with Ethan's. He shrugged and added, "You can't really see the TV over there." He patted the empty space next to EJ. "Come on."After standing there for a moment, Savannah made her way over to the couch.Ethan picked up the remote again, and began filtering through the channels until he found a kid-friendly movie. EJ settled down in between Savannah and Ethan and became engrossed in the movie. Ethan tried his best to pay attention to the movie, but found himself more focused on the mother of his child. With her proximity so close, her scent of jasmine and vanilla was wreaking havoc on his senses. At one point, he absently stretched his arm over the back of the couch and his fingers grazed the soft skin of her bare shoulder. He noticed how her body shiver, but she kept her eyes glued to the tv.Half way through the movie, EJ shifted his body, placing his legs in Ethan's lap and his head in Savannah's."He rarely makes it through a movie after eating," he heard Savannah say quietly."He is out, isn't he?" Ethan said, looking down at him."Yeah, he's done for the night," Savannah said.Ethan scooped EJ up and took him to his room and placed him in the bed. "I guess tonight was a bit of bust," Savannah said, apologetically as Ethan closed the bedroom door."Oh, it wasn't so bad," he said as he walked into the kitchen."But you didn't get to do anything," she said, over to the sink. She started back on her earlier task of washing the dishes. "I'm sure you wanted to do more than just eat and watch a silly kids' movie."He reached over and grabbed her elbow. When she turned and looked at him, he said, "Even doing nothing with my son is something wonderful."They stood staring at each other for a moment and then she gave him a soft smile before she turned back and continued washing dishes.They worked together, Savannah washing and Ethan rinsing and putting the dishes drain. Once they were done, Ethan put the rest of the food away. He heard Savannah let out a long sigh as she sat down at the kitchen table."You look tired," Ethan said, noticing the tired look in his eyes.Savannah gave him a weary smile. "I'm always tired.""But you're on vacation right?" he asked as he grabbed two wine glasses and a bottle of wine. He filled them both and handed her a glass. "You should be resting.""With a six year old?" Savannah laughed, before taking a drink of her wine. "Yeah right.""I could watch him."Savannah's eyes shot up to Ethan's."You?" she asked, clearly taken by surprise."Why not me?" Ethan asked, slightly affronted."I didn't mean it the way it came out Ethan," Savannah said, sitting her glass down on the table. "It's just–""I don't have experience with a six year old.""Honestly," Savannah said. "Yes. Our son...while he's overall well behaved...he can still be a handful.""I understand your reservations, Savvy," Ethan said, slowly. "But I'm sure you know by now that I intend on being in EJ's life from here on out. I've got to learn this fatherhood thing as I go along right?"Savannah tapped the stem of her wine glass. "I suppose you're right.""I just want to help in anyway I can. And that includes taking some of the pressure off of you.""But how will that..."When Savannah didn't finish her question, Ethan noticed the uncomfortable look on her face."Speak your mind Savvy," he urged."How is this going to work once the summer's over? I'm so glad that you eager to be a part of our...EJ's life." The small correction Savannah made wasn't lost on Ethan. "But we live in New York and you live here in Texas."Ethan ran his hand across his jaw. The long distance had plagued Ethan relentlessly. Sighing, he reached over and took Savannah's hand. "People coparent all the time with no problems don't they? We'll figure it out. Let's just spend the summer get to know each other."Savannah nodded her head in agreement.He looked down her hand in his. There was no ring or any indications that one had ever been there."Can I ask you a personal question?" Ethan asked."I...uh...sure.""Besides the men in your family, is there or has there been any other type of father figure in EJ's life?"Savannah pulled her hand away, but when Ethan met her eyes they were lit with humor."Is this your round about way of asking me if I'm involved with anyone?"He gave her a sheepish grin as he responded. "Maybe.""With my work schedule and taking care of EJ, there isn't much time left for a social life.""So that's a no?"Savannah picked her glass up again. "No, Ethan. I'm not involved with anyone. I've gone out on a date here and there over the years, but nothing serious."He hoped she couldn't see the relief her admission had brought him."What about you?""Excuse me?" Ethan replied."Are you involved with someone?""No," he said assuredly.Ethan caught the pleased gleam in Savannah's eye as she looked away.After glancing at her watch, she stood."We should get out of here.""You sure you don't want to stick around and catch the rest of the movie."Savannah shook her head. "I've seen that movie more times than I'd like. It's one of EJ's favorites.""So that's why he was so excited.""Yeah."As she walked out of the kitchen, Ethan took a chance and said, "Maybe we can catch another movie some other time. Something more grown up."Savannah stopped and after a moment, she looked at him over her shoulder.
"I'd like that."
January 28, 2016
Ocean 2 Ocean Book Promotions’ First Annual Winter Masquerade Ball and Romance Tour
Welcome to Ocean 2 Ocean Book Promotions’ first annual Winter Masquerade Ball and Romance Tour!! The blog tour will start Friday, January 29th at 1PM EST, accompanied by a kick-off event on Facebook. The tour and party will continue through February 1st at 11 PM EST.
In addition to posting on their blogs, some of our favorite authors and bloggers (listed at the event) will be hanging out at the party as featured guests posting games, activities, chatting, and just having a good time. Join the event and stay tuned throughout the weekend to ask questions, get to know our featured guests, and of course enjoy the opportunity to win more prizes.
Check out the list of featured guests below, and visit their blogs. Joining the event, completing as many Rafflecopter options as you’re interested in, and visiting as many blogs as possible throughout the tour will increase your chances of winning prizes! When you enter the Rafflecopter, leave a comment here with your e-mail address so we can easily connect you with your entry.
Happy hopping!!
Felicia Welch-Reevers
Dariel Raye
Arla Dahl
P.t. Macias
Darlene Kuncytes
Te’ Russ
Tory Richards
Mika Jolie
Natasha Blackthorne
Stephanie Williams
Kiru Taye
Karissa Thorpe
Stella Eromonsere-Ajanaku
Raven Moon
Sky Purington
a Rafflecopter giveaway
January 10, 2016
Sample Sunday: First Peek at the New McAllister Book, Just One Touch
The McAllisters are back!
Read on for a first look at book six, Just One Touch (by the way, the whole Just One...theme totally isn't something I'm doing on purpose...lol...it's just kind of happening :-), book seven, Vicki's story will be titled Is This Love? That's coming later this year!)
*This excerpt is unedited and subject to change*
Savannah was startled by the pounding of the door. She got up out of her seat to go and answer it when Drew rushed past her, holding up a hand. He pulled the door open and Savannah nearly gasped when she heard his voice."Is Savannah here?"It was deeper, older. But it was him. And though she wanted to loathe the sound of his voice, it made her heart still skip a beat."Who wants to know?" Drew asked, breaking her from her thoughts.Savannah moved forward. "Ethan?"Drew's headed whipped around in surprise, which spoke volumes because not much surprised her cousin. Savannah and Ethan's summer fling all those years had been a secret, which was almost impossible with such a large family, but she'd managed to pull it off somehow. So when she got pregnant, she didn't tell anyone who the father was."Where is he?" Ethan asked, through clenched teeth, glaring at Savannah.That was when she finally took a good look at his face. He was pissed. She turned to Drew. She didn't even have to ask. Drew nodded, turned and headed upstairs."How did you even know I was here?" she asked Ethan."Does it matter, Savvy?" Ethan asked, stepping in the house. "Or did you come, hoping for some reason I wouldn't be here so I wouldn't see my son."He paced the living room, before turning to face Savannah. "EJ?" There was a pained expression on his face. "Ethan James. You name my son after me, yet you keep him from me? How could you do that to me?""How could I..." Savannah's temper spiked. "You've got some nerve, coming in here stomping around saying I'm keeping my son away from you, when you've ignored us for the last six years.""Ignored you?" Ethan repeated. "What are you talking about? How could I ignore something...someone I never even knew existed?"Savannah looked at him confused. "I wrote you!" she shouted. "You were the one who left without saying goodbye...without giving me your home address. So I sent the letters to your house here. I sent letters all through my pregnancy and then after EJ was born. I even sent pictures.""What?" Ethan whispered."I knew there was a chance that it would take a while for you to get them. Especially with you going off to college. But I knew you always came here for the summers like we did, so I figured you'd eventually get them and when you did...you would find me. But you didn't...so I thought..." She looked away from Ethan. "I thought you didn't want us...him."Ethan shook his head. "This is the first time I've been back since that summer," he told her. "I...I never got any letters."Her head snapped back in his direction."You...what?""I never got the letters, Savvy," he repeated. "I never knew I had a son."That one fact changed everything, Savannah thought, suddenly she felt dizzy."Savvy?" Ethan said, reaching out to her. And with just one touch from him, all of the feelings she'd had for him as a young girl came flooding back with full force."I need to sit down."Ethan helped her over to the couch and sat down with her. After a moment, she looked up at him, with tears in her eyes."You didn't know..." she whispered."No," Ethan said, his voice trembling slightly."Oh my god, Ethan. I'm so sorry. I thought...all this time..." She looked up at him. "You've missed so much...I can't believe this."He squeezed her hand. "Where is he, Savvy?" Ethan asked, his voice sounding so raw.She wiped her tears away with the back of her hand. "He's upstairs. He's sleeping...but come on." She stood and took his hand and then led him upstairs and opened up the door to Ethan's room. The room was dark, but the window curtains were pushed open and the moon was streaming through.Savannah stood in the doorway and watched as Ethan slowly walked over to the bed. Her heart ached as she watched him fall to his knees, staring at his son in complete awe. He just kneeled there for several minutes watching the young boy sleep with his lips parted slightly, his light snores filling the air.Finally, reached out and lightly brushed his fingers across the waves of EJ's hair and bent over, pressing his lips to the boys forehead. EJ stirred slightly, and rolled over, putting his back to face them.Ethan stood and turned to Savannah, his cheeks stained with tears. She took a step out into the hallway as Ethan came out of the room and gently closed the door."He's beautiful, Savvy."Savannah couldn't speak over the lump in her throat so she simply nodded."It seems we have a lot to discuss."Savannah nodded again. That seemed to be an understatement."I'm coming..." He stopped and changed his wording. "Would it be okay...if I came back tomorrow? During the day. I'd like to really meet him.""Of course," Savannah said, as she reached out and grabbed his arm reassuringly."Thanks," he said, looking down at her hand. She quickly pulled her hand away and took a step back.Ethan looked as drained as she now felt. They headed back downstairs and to the front door."I'll be by tomorrow," Ethan said, after he'd stepped out onto the porch."Okay," Savannah said. "Goodnight Savvy.""Ethan!"He turned back to face her."If I'd known...that you didn't know. I would have tried harder to reach out to you. It's never been my intent to keep him from you."Ethan stared at her for several moments before finally nodding to acknowledge her words. "I'll see you tomorrow," he said, before getting into his car.Once he drove off, Savannah shut the front door, then turned around to lean on it. Her eyes drifted shut and her head head hit the door with a thud as she blew out a shaky breath.
Read on for a first look at book six, Just One Touch (by the way, the whole Just One...theme totally isn't something I'm doing on purpose...lol...it's just kind of happening :-), book seven, Vicki's story will be titled Is This Love? That's coming later this year!)
*This excerpt is unedited and subject to change*
Savannah was startled by the pounding of the door. She got up out of her seat to go and answer it when Drew rushed past her, holding up a hand. He pulled the door open and Savannah nearly gasped when she heard his voice."Is Savannah here?"It was deeper, older. But it was him. And though she wanted to loathe the sound of his voice, it made her heart still skip a beat."Who wants to know?" Drew asked, breaking her from her thoughts.Savannah moved forward. "Ethan?"Drew's headed whipped around in surprise, which spoke volumes because not much surprised her cousin. Savannah and Ethan's summer fling all those years had been a secret, which was almost impossible with such a large family, but she'd managed to pull it off somehow. So when she got pregnant, she didn't tell anyone who the father was."Where is he?" Ethan asked, through clenched teeth, glaring at Savannah.That was when she finally took a good look at his face. He was pissed. She turned to Drew. She didn't even have to ask. Drew nodded, turned and headed upstairs."How did you even know I was here?" she asked Ethan."Does it matter, Savvy?" Ethan asked, stepping in the house. "Or did you come, hoping for some reason I wouldn't be here so I wouldn't see my son."He paced the living room, before turning to face Savannah. "EJ?" There was a pained expression on his face. "Ethan James. You name my son after me, yet you keep him from me? How could you do that to me?""How could I..." Savannah's temper spiked. "You've got some nerve, coming in here stomping around saying I'm keeping my son away from you, when you've ignored us for the last six years.""Ignored you?" Ethan repeated. "What are you talking about? How could I ignore something...someone I never even knew existed?"Savannah looked at him confused. "I wrote you!" she shouted. "You were the one who left without saying goodbye...without giving me your home address. So I sent the letters to your house here. I sent letters all through my pregnancy and then after EJ was born. I even sent pictures.""What?" Ethan whispered."I knew there was a chance that it would take a while for you to get them. Especially with you going off to college. But I knew you always came here for the summers like we did, so I figured you'd eventually get them and when you did...you would find me. But you didn't...so I thought..." She looked away from Ethan. "I thought you didn't want us...him."Ethan shook his head. "This is the first time I've been back since that summer," he told her. "I...I never got any letters."Her head snapped back in his direction."You...what?""I never got the letters, Savvy," he repeated. "I never knew I had a son."That one fact changed everything, Savannah thought, suddenly she felt dizzy."Savvy?" Ethan said, reaching out to her. And with just one touch from him, all of the feelings she'd had for him as a young girl came flooding back with full force."I need to sit down."Ethan helped her over to the couch and sat down with her. After a moment, she looked up at him, with tears in her eyes."You didn't know..." she whispered."No," Ethan said, his voice trembling slightly."Oh my god, Ethan. I'm so sorry. I thought...all this time..." She looked up at him. "You've missed so much...I can't believe this."He squeezed her hand. "Where is he, Savvy?" Ethan asked, his voice sounding so raw.She wiped her tears away with the back of her hand. "He's upstairs. He's sleeping...but come on." She stood and took his hand and then led him upstairs and opened up the door to Ethan's room. The room was dark, but the window curtains were pushed open and the moon was streaming through.Savannah stood in the doorway and watched as Ethan slowly walked over to the bed. Her heart ached as she watched him fall to his knees, staring at his son in complete awe. He just kneeled there for several minutes watching the young boy sleep with his lips parted slightly, his light snores filling the air.Finally, reached out and lightly brushed his fingers across the waves of EJ's hair and bent over, pressing his lips to the boys forehead. EJ stirred slightly, and rolled over, putting his back to face them.Ethan stood and turned to Savannah, his cheeks stained with tears. She took a step out into the hallway as Ethan came out of the room and gently closed the door."He's beautiful, Savvy."Savannah couldn't speak over the lump in her throat so she simply nodded."It seems we have a lot to discuss."Savannah nodded again. That seemed to be an understatement."I'm coming..." He stopped and changed his wording. "Would it be okay...if I came back tomorrow? During the day. I'd like to really meet him.""Of course," Savannah said, as she reached out and grabbed his arm reassuringly."Thanks," he said, looking down at her hand. She quickly pulled her hand away and took a step back.Ethan looked as drained as she now felt. They headed back downstairs and to the front door."I'll be by tomorrow," Ethan said, after he'd stepped out onto the porch."Okay," Savannah said. "Goodnight Savvy.""Ethan!"He turned back to face her."If I'd known...that you didn't know. I would have tried harder to reach out to you. It's never been my intent to keep him from you."Ethan stared at her for several moments before finally nodding to acknowledge her words. "I'll see you tomorrow," he said, before getting into his car.Once he drove off, Savannah shut the front door, then turned around to lean on it. Her eyes drifted shut and her head head hit the door with a thud as she blew out a shaky breath.
January 7, 2016
Book Spotlight: It's Never Too Late for Love by W. Parks Brigham
W Parks Brigham visits today and shares the first two chapters of her latest release, It's Never Too Late for Love.
Blurb Delana Crawford was livid with her twin brother’s news. She couldn’t believe after thirty plus years as a widower, he was in love and planned to get married. At fifty-eight years old, please! There was nothing wrong with having a friend and companionship, but marriage? She just didn’t understand. Why, after all this time? Yes, that was how she felt until the wedding and she bumped into a gorgeous, sexy gentleman by the name of Charles Johnson. Fine syrupy brown, six-feet plus, mingled gray, HUNK with a firm handshake and a smooth baritone voice.After meeting the savvy handsome Charles Johnson, sister girl is now singing a different song.But why is she being so hard-nosed and difficult at fifty-eight years old? Somebody please tell me?
Excerpt: CHAPTER 1 Delana Crawford was still upset as she kicked her shoes under the bench in front of her queen-size bed and turned on the television. She had just returned from a much-needed walk to clear her head after she heard her twin brother’s other disturbing news. It was bad enough he was getting ready to upset both of their lives. But he had the nerve to ask her to coordinate his wedding and wanted her to meet with both families who were on their way over. She wished she would spend her Sunday evening talking about a wedding after he’d turned their simple and carefree life upside down. As far as she was concerned, they were living the good life after all the sacrifices they’d made over the years. The girls were now happily married with families and successful careers, living the American dream, even if they were running the family businesses. What was also surprising was his girls encouraging him, saying it was time for him to marry, again. The ungrateful traitors, they were supposed to have her back. Instead, they accused her of being a hater and said she needed to find herself a man. Well, they could help their father and future stepmother have a wedding. And she was not jealous, just didn’t feel up to pretending she was in the mood to plan their upcoming nuptials. Her nieces even had the nerve to give her a lecture on trying love again. She had done that and been there. As far as she was concerned she was too old to be caught up with all of that foolishness. The men in her age bracket were looking for someone who was capable of taking care of them and she was not the one…Humph, wash your own clothes, fix your own dinner, and please pick up behind yourself, she thought. Okay, Delana, get back to the real matter at hand, she scolded silently. Everything was to take place in two weeks. She couldn’t believe Rhonda Kaye Mason actually wanted to be a July bride and her brother and nieces were doing everything in their power to make it happen. That was why they were having it the last day in July, on a big Tuesday morning; what a joke! What was the rush? Demit his soul, thought Delana, opening a bag of her weakness, miniature Snickers. And yes, she might eat the whole bag if she wished and add some extra pounds to her two hundred and three-pound frame. Humph, just as long as the scales did not go past the ten mark. She popped a chocolate delight in her mouth. Humph, he even had the nerve to tell her there was no need in her thinking about moving. Humph, she popped another. Dee, we can all live here together. We’ll still have our separate and private spaces. Yeah, right, she wished she would live with him and Rhonda Kaye Mason. She ate another. And she didn’t care if they’d only been in their new residence three short months; she unwrapped another.He was right about it being enough room, in spite of them calling themselves downsizing. Together, they had the ideal home built to their specifications not far from the girls and the church they attended. They each had a beautiful apartment that fit their personal needs, an adjoining family room, patio, and two-car garage they shared. His space included extra handicapped modifications which were clearly put up for his fiancée, no doubt, along with a few other suggestions she made. It was now crystal clear. Hers included a customized closet for her extensive wardrobe and a wonderful spa bath to die for. Huh-uh, he never intended to live alone and had been contemplating marriage the whole time. As far as she was concerned he was ruining a good thing behind thinking he was in LOVE. Please, at his age! She popped another as she recalled his one-way conversation, during which she remained silent since she didn’t have a decent word to say.After thirty-plus years, he was in love and planned to get married. She just didn’t understand. Why, after all this time? They were now on easy street, didn’t have to answer to or worry about anyone, going and coming as they pleased since he was retired and she, semi-retired. There was nothing wrong with having a friend for companionship, but marriage? What in the world was Deleon Crawford going to do with a wife at fifty-eight years old? To top it off, he was marrying Rhonda Kaye Mason who struggled with a cane just to get around. She should be on a walker or one of those riding toys, Delana thought with a smirk, eating another one. Now really, what good was she going to be to a vital, healthy man like her brother? Regardless of Rhonda Kaye being two years younger than Deleon, she already had a serious case of arthritis. One thing was for sure, he was going to have to take care of her by himself. She would move out as soon as she found something suitable. Yeah, right she thought, looking around her beautiful living room, dang his soul. Delana knew she was only blowing off steam. She was happy in her new home and didn’t want to start over. Moving was a headache even if you did have someone to do it for you. You still had to supervise the job. Yep, she was stuck like Chuck! Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on her door. “Aunt Dee, can I come in?”“Sure niece.” She knew what she wanted, but her heart just wasn’t in it. This was going to be her first solo job; she just didn’t know it. It was true that Delana was well-known for making many a plus-size bride of all ages’ special day from the wedding ensemble to the last detail extraordinary. She had a gift for choosing the perfect gown for any body type and had put a smile on a many faces because of her expertise in fashion, period.
“Aunt Dee, I wanted you to look at the portfolio I put together for Ms. Rhonda. She didn’t want a lot of frills, just something nice and modest for a woman her size and age. And I had to take in consideration she can’t stand a long time too.” You can say that again, thought Delana.
“Let’s see what you have.”
While she viewed the slide presentation on her tablet, Barbriel went into her personal plea. She wanted her to have a change of heart about their father remarrying and participate in the planning. Delana knew her brother and other nieces had put her up to it. They’d always said she had a soft spot when it came to her youngest niece, but she, too, could forget about her changing her mind.
“Niece, looks like you have everything under control. Your selections are quite lovely and I know Rhonda Kaye will be very pleased.” Delana was bubbling with pride; once again her niece had truly displayed her remarkable talent. Her protégées had done outstanding jobs and never ceased to amaze her. Their performances were better than ever. All three were chips off the old block in the line of fashion with their own personal expertise. Ma’Shawn, the oldest, had a phenomenal flair for marketing and designing along with skillfully implementing Passion Lanier’s individual blueprints for beauty and fashion; Barbriel for coordinating, organization, and presentation using technology; and Kieran, their chemist, had developed their line of beauty products thanks to her major stock holder, Passion Lanier. Besides Delana’s Boutique and Glamour Salon & Spa, they also had an impressive and extensive website and online retail business catering to women worldwide with emphasis on the plus-size woman.
“Auntie, won’t you please join us? You don’t want to offend Ms. Rhonda. We’ve never seen Daddy act this way and she’s responsible for that. After all these years, he’s found someone who fills the empty void he has had for such a long time.” Barbriel paused for a few minutes to let her last statement sink in before she continued. Her niece was right and had a valid point, thought Delana. The sisters down at the church his age and younger had tried for some time to march him down the aisle. Many had tried getting close to her and his girls for that matter, thinking they could get a hook-up, especially once they saw he had eyes for Rhonda Kaye.
“Auntie, out of all the women, she’s the one he has chosen to spend the remainder of his life with. And between you and me, he had a hard time convincing her to accept his proposal. She had all kinds of reasons why they should just remain friends. Aunt Dee, she even doubted her worth as a woman because of her handicap and size. Now you know we believe just the opposite. She is such a beautiful woman inside and out with a spirit to match and Daddy is crazy about her.”
Once again her niece was really throwing it on thick, thought Delana as she listened.
“If we were searching for a woman to represent what we are about business wise, she would be the perfect sister. She’s everything you’ve based your business on and made sure it was imbedded in us. Our motto: Every woman is beautiful; it’s up to her to accept and accentuate her best features. Auntie, you would think this was his first time, and now they are both spilling over with happiness and excitement.”
“Okay, case well presented. You should have been a lawyer. I’ll be out in a few minutes; go ahead and get started.” They sent the right one to soften her up, including getting her to go back on her every word. Barbriel was a bigger romantic than she was and was definitely in the right department. She was the wedding consultant and could make it happen with any budget. Delana smiled as she popped one more chocolate morsel before leaving her apartment… Barbriel had a satisfied grin on her face as she joined the family; once again she’d broken the hardnosed Delana Crawford down. Oh, but she had a surprise for her, too. She and her sisters had been scheming big time along with their friend, Jazper Collins…
Delana could hear voices as she entered the hall that led straight to the spacious family room.
“Here she is!” Her twin was up and giving her the biggest hug. “Thanks Sis,” he whispered. She felt low as an ant. How could she not see the change in him since Rhonda Kaye said yes? He wasn’t this thrilled the first time.“Dee, come sit by us,” said Rhonda Kaye, patting the space beside her. “The girls have done a wonderful job and they’re going to design a website using us for couples over fifty.”
All eyes were on her, including Rhonda Kaye’s son, daughter, and their spouses. Smile, Delana.
CHAPTER 2 Two weeks laterThe guests will be arriving shortly, thought Delana as she and Libby took one last walk-through in the well-decorated fellowship hall. That was where the ceremony was going to take place, instead of the auditorium. Libby was a new consultant and director in-training and Delana was inclined to believe she, too, had great potential. She did a wonderful job implementing their plans. Delana was pleased the hall was exactly as she envisioned, a beautiful summer wedding with cream-covered banquet tables and chairs which had dusty rose sashes tied around the back. Two rows of chairs were placed in the front, separated by a short aisle for the couple’s children. In the middle of each table were lovely wicker-basket centerpieces of summer flowers. Decorative figurines holding mints were on each side. Where the bride and groom were to stand and say their vows sat a huge wicker planter with overflowing, fresh greenery and summer blooms. Dusty rose accent ribbons were wrapped around the handle and ended in cute curly bows. On the other side stood a unique gunmetal candle stand with running green vines, cream candles, and floral wreaths. Rolling carts were tucked away with a three-layer butter cream cake trimmed in little candy pearls of dusty rose, a chocolate caramel sheet cake, and a fountain which would be pulled out at the proper time. Delana was thankful the couple had decided to have a morning ceremony with no attendants. The exchanging of vows would be over within fifteen minutes, a catered light brunch would be served, and everyone would hopefully be able to beat the rain storm that was expected after twelve if they didn’t linger. The couple’s wish was to have their ceremony quick and to the point. And their job was to please. Of course, she wouldn’t have chosen a Tuesday, but so be it. Everything was going according to schedule for the loving couple including the plans to travel the countryside for their honeymoon. Even though heavy rain and possible floods were expected, the newlyweds would be driving in the opposite direction of the bad weather. Text: Aunt Dee we need u. Delana sent Libby to get the men while she checked on the problem. She couldn’t imagine what was wrong while heading in the direction of the ladies’ lounge. Whatever, they needed to hurry; cars were pulling up which meant guests were beginning to arrive. “Aunt Dee, you look pretty,” exclaimed her oldest great niece.“Thank you, sweetie, where’s baby girl?” As if she knew she was being summoned, the little tyke skipped through the doors and stood beside her big cousin. “My goodness, don’t Auntie’s girls look beautiful.” They both said thank you with the youngest being excited for two reasons. She was dressed like her big cousin and she had been allowed to miss a day of nursery school. Libby approached the girls; it was time to put them on their post. Again, Dee started to the foyer and met her nephew. “Wow-wee, Aunt Dee, you trying to give the bride competition,” declared Ma’Shawn’s husband, Todd. She did look good and was proud to say she was in the best of health and could still wear three-inch heels. Thanks to her dark flawless complexion, people found it hard to believe her age when she told it in spite of the gray hair. She’d even had some people to think she had the gray put in. “No, nephew, just representing,” she said, patting his face and adjusting his tie. The berry suit she had on was sharp and becoming for a woman in her age range. The jacket had a jeweled modesty panel and button closure with crystal stones on the satin pleated shawl collar and waist. Of course, she had her trademarks, a matching handbag and pillbox hat with elaborate jeweled clusters. “Are they ready back there?”“I don’t know, Aunt Dee. They just said they need you. Aunt Lucille is outside with Great-Aunty and Uncle; she needs help.” They smiled because Lucille was a character. But one thing for sure, she’s taken excellent care of her ninety-plus-year-old parents. Darwin and Bernard are with Dad. He’s one overly-anxious groom,” he said, grinning. “You hold it down while I check on things,” instructed Delana. She then made a quick turn to walk to the back and bumped into a gorgeous, sexy gentleman with Nathan Collins. They both wore appreciative smiles. “Excuse me,” said the older gentleman in his smooth, baritone voice.Mmmm! Dang, every one of her nerve endings was spitting fire. “No, please, excuse me,” she replied sizing him up. Humph, men do it all the time. “Delana, let me introduce you to my father-in-law, Charles Johnson.” She knew exactly who he was with all the talk she had heard at the salon. Poor Jazper was always flooded with questions whenever she came into the salon or boutique by people of all ages.“It’s my pleasure, Delana,” he said, taking her hand. She expressed it was nice to meet him as well, while she admitted silently that he was something to behold close up. And whoever said he was a bag of chips should have said a family size. Ba-bee, Charles Johnson was a fine syrupy brown, six-feet plus, mingled gray, HUNK with a firm handshake. And it was quite evident he knew the effect he had on women. But just like she overheard Jazper tell her nieces, when they called themselves playing matchmakers, he was not interested and neither was she.
About the Author:
W Parks Brigham would like to invite you into her world of love and romance. She has penned some of the most delicious tales with plus size women as the heroine, touching your every emotion. Her heroines are attractive, educated, and sophisticated with high self-esteem. They are not looking for a man to validate their worth…just love them for who they are. Drama, the element of surprise with lots of twists and turns, romance, love, and semi-steamy intimacy are featured in each story. Besides being a writer of AA romance and women fiction; W Parks Brigham considers her stories in a class all by themselves Contemporary Christian Romance since she includes intimacy. Remember, she was first to tag her stories in what she’s sure will be a new category in the near future.
W Parks Brigham Author Page: www.amazon.com./-/e/B00G4IPAMU FB Author W Parks Brigham Website: http://www.wparksbrigham.com/. Email: wparksbrigham@writeme.com
Available books by W PARKS BRIGHT: DESTINED TO BE….REIVISED PROMISES WHO AM I SUPPOSED TO LOVE SURVIVING THE STORM YOU WERE MEANT FOR ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #1) YOU BELONG TO ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #2) NO STRINGS ATTACHED (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #3)YOU’RE THE ONE FOR ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #4) WE BELONG TOGETHER (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #5)
A New Series…The Golden Years IT’S NEVER TOO LATE FOR LOVE (The Golden Years Book #1)Featured Story IT’S NEVER TOO LATE FOR LOVE (The Golden Years Book #1)
Blurb Delana Crawford was livid with her twin brother’s news. She couldn’t believe after thirty plus years as a widower, he was in love and planned to get married. At fifty-eight years old, please! There was nothing wrong with having a friend and companionship, but marriage? She just didn’t understand. Why, after all this time? Yes, that was how she felt until the wedding and she bumped into a gorgeous, sexy gentleman by the name of Charles Johnson. Fine syrupy brown, six-feet plus, mingled gray, HUNK with a firm handshake and a smooth baritone voice.After meeting the savvy handsome Charles Johnson, sister girl is now singing a different song.But why is she being so hard-nosed and difficult at fifty-eight years old? Somebody please tell me?
Excerpt: CHAPTER 1 Delana Crawford was still upset as she kicked her shoes under the bench in front of her queen-size bed and turned on the television. She had just returned from a much-needed walk to clear her head after she heard her twin brother’s other disturbing news. It was bad enough he was getting ready to upset both of their lives. But he had the nerve to ask her to coordinate his wedding and wanted her to meet with both families who were on their way over. She wished she would spend her Sunday evening talking about a wedding after he’d turned their simple and carefree life upside down. As far as she was concerned, they were living the good life after all the sacrifices they’d made over the years. The girls were now happily married with families and successful careers, living the American dream, even if they were running the family businesses. What was also surprising was his girls encouraging him, saying it was time for him to marry, again. The ungrateful traitors, they were supposed to have her back. Instead, they accused her of being a hater and said she needed to find herself a man. Well, they could help their father and future stepmother have a wedding. And she was not jealous, just didn’t feel up to pretending she was in the mood to plan their upcoming nuptials. Her nieces even had the nerve to give her a lecture on trying love again. She had done that and been there. As far as she was concerned she was too old to be caught up with all of that foolishness. The men in her age bracket were looking for someone who was capable of taking care of them and she was not the one…Humph, wash your own clothes, fix your own dinner, and please pick up behind yourself, she thought. Okay, Delana, get back to the real matter at hand, she scolded silently. Everything was to take place in two weeks. She couldn’t believe Rhonda Kaye Mason actually wanted to be a July bride and her brother and nieces were doing everything in their power to make it happen. That was why they were having it the last day in July, on a big Tuesday morning; what a joke! What was the rush? Demit his soul, thought Delana, opening a bag of her weakness, miniature Snickers. And yes, she might eat the whole bag if she wished and add some extra pounds to her two hundred and three-pound frame. Humph, just as long as the scales did not go past the ten mark. She popped a chocolate delight in her mouth. Humph, he even had the nerve to tell her there was no need in her thinking about moving. Humph, she popped another. Dee, we can all live here together. We’ll still have our separate and private spaces. Yeah, right, she wished she would live with him and Rhonda Kaye Mason. She ate another. And she didn’t care if they’d only been in their new residence three short months; she unwrapped another.He was right about it being enough room, in spite of them calling themselves downsizing. Together, they had the ideal home built to their specifications not far from the girls and the church they attended. They each had a beautiful apartment that fit their personal needs, an adjoining family room, patio, and two-car garage they shared. His space included extra handicapped modifications which were clearly put up for his fiancée, no doubt, along with a few other suggestions she made. It was now crystal clear. Hers included a customized closet for her extensive wardrobe and a wonderful spa bath to die for. Huh-uh, he never intended to live alone and had been contemplating marriage the whole time. As far as she was concerned he was ruining a good thing behind thinking he was in LOVE. Please, at his age! She popped another as she recalled his one-way conversation, during which she remained silent since she didn’t have a decent word to say.After thirty-plus years, he was in love and planned to get married. She just didn’t understand. Why, after all this time? They were now on easy street, didn’t have to answer to or worry about anyone, going and coming as they pleased since he was retired and she, semi-retired. There was nothing wrong with having a friend for companionship, but marriage? What in the world was Deleon Crawford going to do with a wife at fifty-eight years old? To top it off, he was marrying Rhonda Kaye Mason who struggled with a cane just to get around. She should be on a walker or one of those riding toys, Delana thought with a smirk, eating another one. Now really, what good was she going to be to a vital, healthy man like her brother? Regardless of Rhonda Kaye being two years younger than Deleon, she already had a serious case of arthritis. One thing was for sure, he was going to have to take care of her by himself. She would move out as soon as she found something suitable. Yeah, right she thought, looking around her beautiful living room, dang his soul. Delana knew she was only blowing off steam. She was happy in her new home and didn’t want to start over. Moving was a headache even if you did have someone to do it for you. You still had to supervise the job. Yep, she was stuck like Chuck! Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on her door. “Aunt Dee, can I come in?”“Sure niece.” She knew what she wanted, but her heart just wasn’t in it. This was going to be her first solo job; she just didn’t know it. It was true that Delana was well-known for making many a plus-size bride of all ages’ special day from the wedding ensemble to the last detail extraordinary. She had a gift for choosing the perfect gown for any body type and had put a smile on a many faces because of her expertise in fashion, period.
“Aunt Dee, I wanted you to look at the portfolio I put together for Ms. Rhonda. She didn’t want a lot of frills, just something nice and modest for a woman her size and age. And I had to take in consideration she can’t stand a long time too.” You can say that again, thought Delana.
“Let’s see what you have.”
While she viewed the slide presentation on her tablet, Barbriel went into her personal plea. She wanted her to have a change of heart about their father remarrying and participate in the planning. Delana knew her brother and other nieces had put her up to it. They’d always said she had a soft spot when it came to her youngest niece, but she, too, could forget about her changing her mind.
“Niece, looks like you have everything under control. Your selections are quite lovely and I know Rhonda Kaye will be very pleased.” Delana was bubbling with pride; once again her niece had truly displayed her remarkable talent. Her protégées had done outstanding jobs and never ceased to amaze her. Their performances were better than ever. All three were chips off the old block in the line of fashion with their own personal expertise. Ma’Shawn, the oldest, had a phenomenal flair for marketing and designing along with skillfully implementing Passion Lanier’s individual blueprints for beauty and fashion; Barbriel for coordinating, organization, and presentation using technology; and Kieran, their chemist, had developed their line of beauty products thanks to her major stock holder, Passion Lanier. Besides Delana’s Boutique and Glamour Salon & Spa, they also had an impressive and extensive website and online retail business catering to women worldwide with emphasis on the plus-size woman.
“Auntie, won’t you please join us? You don’t want to offend Ms. Rhonda. We’ve never seen Daddy act this way and she’s responsible for that. After all these years, he’s found someone who fills the empty void he has had for such a long time.” Barbriel paused for a few minutes to let her last statement sink in before she continued. Her niece was right and had a valid point, thought Delana. The sisters down at the church his age and younger had tried for some time to march him down the aisle. Many had tried getting close to her and his girls for that matter, thinking they could get a hook-up, especially once they saw he had eyes for Rhonda Kaye.
“Auntie, out of all the women, she’s the one he has chosen to spend the remainder of his life with. And between you and me, he had a hard time convincing her to accept his proposal. She had all kinds of reasons why they should just remain friends. Aunt Dee, she even doubted her worth as a woman because of her handicap and size. Now you know we believe just the opposite. She is such a beautiful woman inside and out with a spirit to match and Daddy is crazy about her.”
Once again her niece was really throwing it on thick, thought Delana as she listened.
“If we were searching for a woman to represent what we are about business wise, she would be the perfect sister. She’s everything you’ve based your business on and made sure it was imbedded in us. Our motto: Every woman is beautiful; it’s up to her to accept and accentuate her best features. Auntie, you would think this was his first time, and now they are both spilling over with happiness and excitement.”
“Okay, case well presented. You should have been a lawyer. I’ll be out in a few minutes; go ahead and get started.” They sent the right one to soften her up, including getting her to go back on her every word. Barbriel was a bigger romantic than she was and was definitely in the right department. She was the wedding consultant and could make it happen with any budget. Delana smiled as she popped one more chocolate morsel before leaving her apartment… Barbriel had a satisfied grin on her face as she joined the family; once again she’d broken the hardnosed Delana Crawford down. Oh, but she had a surprise for her, too. She and her sisters had been scheming big time along with their friend, Jazper Collins…
Delana could hear voices as she entered the hall that led straight to the spacious family room.
“Here she is!” Her twin was up and giving her the biggest hug. “Thanks Sis,” he whispered. She felt low as an ant. How could she not see the change in him since Rhonda Kaye said yes? He wasn’t this thrilled the first time.“Dee, come sit by us,” said Rhonda Kaye, patting the space beside her. “The girls have done a wonderful job and they’re going to design a website using us for couples over fifty.”
All eyes were on her, including Rhonda Kaye’s son, daughter, and their spouses. Smile, Delana.
CHAPTER 2 Two weeks laterThe guests will be arriving shortly, thought Delana as she and Libby took one last walk-through in the well-decorated fellowship hall. That was where the ceremony was going to take place, instead of the auditorium. Libby was a new consultant and director in-training and Delana was inclined to believe she, too, had great potential. She did a wonderful job implementing their plans. Delana was pleased the hall was exactly as she envisioned, a beautiful summer wedding with cream-covered banquet tables and chairs which had dusty rose sashes tied around the back. Two rows of chairs were placed in the front, separated by a short aisle for the couple’s children. In the middle of each table were lovely wicker-basket centerpieces of summer flowers. Decorative figurines holding mints were on each side. Where the bride and groom were to stand and say their vows sat a huge wicker planter with overflowing, fresh greenery and summer blooms. Dusty rose accent ribbons were wrapped around the handle and ended in cute curly bows. On the other side stood a unique gunmetal candle stand with running green vines, cream candles, and floral wreaths. Rolling carts were tucked away with a three-layer butter cream cake trimmed in little candy pearls of dusty rose, a chocolate caramel sheet cake, and a fountain which would be pulled out at the proper time. Delana was thankful the couple had decided to have a morning ceremony with no attendants. The exchanging of vows would be over within fifteen minutes, a catered light brunch would be served, and everyone would hopefully be able to beat the rain storm that was expected after twelve if they didn’t linger. The couple’s wish was to have their ceremony quick and to the point. And their job was to please. Of course, she wouldn’t have chosen a Tuesday, but so be it. Everything was going according to schedule for the loving couple including the plans to travel the countryside for their honeymoon. Even though heavy rain and possible floods were expected, the newlyweds would be driving in the opposite direction of the bad weather. Text: Aunt Dee we need u. Delana sent Libby to get the men while she checked on the problem. She couldn’t imagine what was wrong while heading in the direction of the ladies’ lounge. Whatever, they needed to hurry; cars were pulling up which meant guests were beginning to arrive. “Aunt Dee, you look pretty,” exclaimed her oldest great niece.“Thank you, sweetie, where’s baby girl?” As if she knew she was being summoned, the little tyke skipped through the doors and stood beside her big cousin. “My goodness, don’t Auntie’s girls look beautiful.” They both said thank you with the youngest being excited for two reasons. She was dressed like her big cousin and she had been allowed to miss a day of nursery school. Libby approached the girls; it was time to put them on their post. Again, Dee started to the foyer and met her nephew. “Wow-wee, Aunt Dee, you trying to give the bride competition,” declared Ma’Shawn’s husband, Todd. She did look good and was proud to say she was in the best of health and could still wear three-inch heels. Thanks to her dark flawless complexion, people found it hard to believe her age when she told it in spite of the gray hair. She’d even had some people to think she had the gray put in. “No, nephew, just representing,” she said, patting his face and adjusting his tie. The berry suit she had on was sharp and becoming for a woman in her age range. The jacket had a jeweled modesty panel and button closure with crystal stones on the satin pleated shawl collar and waist. Of course, she had her trademarks, a matching handbag and pillbox hat with elaborate jeweled clusters. “Are they ready back there?”“I don’t know, Aunt Dee. They just said they need you. Aunt Lucille is outside with Great-Aunty and Uncle; she needs help.” They smiled because Lucille was a character. But one thing for sure, she’s taken excellent care of her ninety-plus-year-old parents. Darwin and Bernard are with Dad. He’s one overly-anxious groom,” he said, grinning. “You hold it down while I check on things,” instructed Delana. She then made a quick turn to walk to the back and bumped into a gorgeous, sexy gentleman with Nathan Collins. They both wore appreciative smiles. “Excuse me,” said the older gentleman in his smooth, baritone voice.Mmmm! Dang, every one of her nerve endings was spitting fire. “No, please, excuse me,” she replied sizing him up. Humph, men do it all the time. “Delana, let me introduce you to my father-in-law, Charles Johnson.” She knew exactly who he was with all the talk she had heard at the salon. Poor Jazper was always flooded with questions whenever she came into the salon or boutique by people of all ages.“It’s my pleasure, Delana,” he said, taking her hand. She expressed it was nice to meet him as well, while she admitted silently that he was something to behold close up. And whoever said he was a bag of chips should have said a family size. Ba-bee, Charles Johnson was a fine syrupy brown, six-feet plus, mingled gray, HUNK with a firm handshake. And it was quite evident he knew the effect he had on women. But just like she overheard Jazper tell her nieces, when they called themselves playing matchmakers, he was not interested and neither was she.
About the Author:
W Parks Brigham would like to invite you into her world of love and romance. She has penned some of the most delicious tales with plus size women as the heroine, touching your every emotion. Her heroines are attractive, educated, and sophisticated with high self-esteem. They are not looking for a man to validate their worth…just love them for who they are. Drama, the element of surprise with lots of twists and turns, romance, love, and semi-steamy intimacy are featured in each story. Besides being a writer of AA romance and women fiction; W Parks Brigham considers her stories in a class all by themselves Contemporary Christian Romance since she includes intimacy. Remember, she was first to tag her stories in what she’s sure will be a new category in the near future.
W Parks Brigham Author Page: www.amazon.com./-/e/B00G4IPAMU FB Author W Parks Brigham Website: http://www.wparksbrigham.com/. Email: wparksbrigham@writeme.com
Available books by W PARKS BRIGHT: DESTINED TO BE….REIVISED PROMISES WHO AM I SUPPOSED TO LOVE SURVIVING THE STORM YOU WERE MEANT FOR ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #1) YOU BELONG TO ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #2) NO STRINGS ATTACHED (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #3)YOU’RE THE ONE FOR ME (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #4) WE BELONG TOGETHER (ALLANVILLE’S MATCHMAKERS BOOK #5)
A New Series…The Golden Years IT’S NEVER TOO LATE FOR LOVE (The Golden Years Book #1)Featured Story IT’S NEVER TOO LATE FOR LOVE (The Golden Years Book #1)
January 4, 2016
Book Spotlight: BeJewled: A Beautiful Blend by Chelle Ramsey
Today, Chelle Ramsey joins us to share from her latest release, BeJeweled: A Beautiful Blend, book three in the House of BeJeweled series.
BEJEWELED: A BEAUTIFUL BLENDOlivia believes she can have it all. A successful business and a loving husband. But his ex-wife is not ready to walk away, and continues to threaten any chance he and Olivia might have at happiness. When Olivia discovers she’s being stalked, secrets her mother took to the grave come creeping out. The baby Nikki and Carlos have been planning is finally on the way. One problem…the paternity is at question, and Carlos is in the dark. To protect her secrets, Nikki’s ready to sever ties to both men that hold the key to her heart. But one half of her heart won’t let go, and the other half is willing to fight until the end. The birth of her child may lead to the death of her marriage. One test has the power to determine the truth. One test will change their lives forever. Deception will bring separation, and destiny will mend two broken hearts. And in the end, everyone must work together to create a beautiful blend.
EXCERPT:“I don’t think it’s anything to worry about, Ivy. He’s just a harmless homeless man. They do travel around, but maybe it isn’t the same person you saw at the Buckhead location,” Raymond assured Olivia over dinner that night.“I don’t know, Ray. He not only looked like that man, but he sounded like him, as well. There was something about his eyes. I know I’ve seen him before,” she debated.Raymond speared a chicken breast chunk with his fork and put it in his mouth. He wore a thoughtful expression, and his mind appeared to be a million miles away.“What is it, Ray?” she asked, setting her fork down on the side of her plate. She removed her napkin from her lap and walked into the kitchen to grab the pitcher of tea from the refrigerator.Walking back into the dining room, she noticed that her husband was still far off in thought. “Hey, what’s on your mind?” she asked again, refilling his glass with tea and then her own.“I’m heading out of town this weekend,” he murmured, and then took a sip of his tea.“What?” she asked, looking up from her task, inadvertently spilling a few drops.“I said, I’m heading out of town this weekend,” he repeated, a little firmer and louder than she thought was necessary.“To Boston?” she asked quietly, wiping her spill with a paper towel. His trips back to Boston to visit his ex-wife and kids had become more frequent lately. He had visited two weekends prior. She believed the only reason he hadn’t gone last weekend was because he had to speak at a seminar for fire professionals. Each time he returned home, he came back in a bad mood.“Yeah.”“Why do you have to keep going up there, Ray?” Olivia whispered. She suddenly had lost her appetite and removed her plate from the table.As she entered the kitchen she turned to look back at her husband through the breakfast nook. She thought she saw a glimpse of guilt on his face.“They’re my kids, Ivy. I thought you understood that. How else am I going to see them?” he asked, frustration overtaking his expressions.“I do understand that, Ray. But I also understand that you haven’t fought for your rights. Why don’t you take her to court? She cannot keep battling you and refusing to allow you time with them unless you return to Boston,” Olivia argued back.
“I told you once before I don’t want to drag her to court. She might’ve been crap as a wife, but first and foremost she’s the mother of my kids. And I will give her the respect she deserves for that, if for nothing else.” He scooted his chair back and grabbed his plate to bring it into the kitchen where she stood. From the looks of his plate, she wasn’t the only one who had lost their appetite.
PURCHASE BOOKS:Amazon: bit.ly/THOBJ3AMAZON: C. Michelle Ramsey Amazon or Chelle Ramsey AmazonPAPERBACKS: (HOBJ1) https://www.createspace.com/4706061; (HOBJII) https://www.createspace.com/5546573; and (HOBJ111)
ABOUT CHELLE RAMSEY:An original Georgia Peach, Chelle Ramsey is a fiction author, writing stories to encourage, empower, entertain and strengthen readers. Many of her stories are based in her birthplace of Atlanta or her husband’s hometown of Cincinnati, where readers can relate to local hot spots and events. She wants her readers (women and men) to become empowered to rise above adversity, with faith in God, and belief in themselves. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her property management role by day, while she writes her fiction novels by night. Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she loves listening to music, and becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, and Nora Roberts. She especially relishes trying to solve the engaging mysteries of James Patterson and Stuart Woods, while eating a bowl of her favorite butter pecan ice cream. Chelle resides in a rural community of Atlanta, GA and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games with her husband.
CONTACT INFO:BLOG: www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blogWEBSITE: www.chelleramsey.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChelleRamsey?ref=hlFACEBOOK_NOVEL: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-House-of-BeJeweled-Novels/385049478363422?ref=hlTWITTER: https://twitter.com/ChellesBooksEMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.comINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/chelleramseybooks/GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscom_Chelle
BEJEWELED: A BEAUTIFUL BLENDOlivia believes she can have it all. A successful business and a loving husband. But his ex-wife is not ready to walk away, and continues to threaten any chance he and Olivia might have at happiness. When Olivia discovers she’s being stalked, secrets her mother took to the grave come creeping out. The baby Nikki and Carlos have been planning is finally on the way. One problem…the paternity is at question, and Carlos is in the dark. To protect her secrets, Nikki’s ready to sever ties to both men that hold the key to her heart. But one half of her heart won’t let go, and the other half is willing to fight until the end. The birth of her child may lead to the death of her marriage. One test has the power to determine the truth. One test will change their lives forever. Deception will bring separation, and destiny will mend two broken hearts. And in the end, everyone must work together to create a beautiful blend.
EXCERPT:“I don’t think it’s anything to worry about, Ivy. He’s just a harmless homeless man. They do travel around, but maybe it isn’t the same person you saw at the Buckhead location,” Raymond assured Olivia over dinner that night.“I don’t know, Ray. He not only looked like that man, but he sounded like him, as well. There was something about his eyes. I know I’ve seen him before,” she debated.Raymond speared a chicken breast chunk with his fork and put it in his mouth. He wore a thoughtful expression, and his mind appeared to be a million miles away.“What is it, Ray?” she asked, setting her fork down on the side of her plate. She removed her napkin from her lap and walked into the kitchen to grab the pitcher of tea from the refrigerator.Walking back into the dining room, she noticed that her husband was still far off in thought. “Hey, what’s on your mind?” she asked again, refilling his glass with tea and then her own.“I’m heading out of town this weekend,” he murmured, and then took a sip of his tea.“What?” she asked, looking up from her task, inadvertently spilling a few drops.“I said, I’m heading out of town this weekend,” he repeated, a little firmer and louder than she thought was necessary.“To Boston?” she asked quietly, wiping her spill with a paper towel. His trips back to Boston to visit his ex-wife and kids had become more frequent lately. He had visited two weekends prior. She believed the only reason he hadn’t gone last weekend was because he had to speak at a seminar for fire professionals. Each time he returned home, he came back in a bad mood.“Yeah.”“Why do you have to keep going up there, Ray?” Olivia whispered. She suddenly had lost her appetite and removed her plate from the table.As she entered the kitchen she turned to look back at her husband through the breakfast nook. She thought she saw a glimpse of guilt on his face.“They’re my kids, Ivy. I thought you understood that. How else am I going to see them?” he asked, frustration overtaking his expressions.“I do understand that, Ray. But I also understand that you haven’t fought for your rights. Why don’t you take her to court? She cannot keep battling you and refusing to allow you time with them unless you return to Boston,” Olivia argued back.
“I told you once before I don’t want to drag her to court. She might’ve been crap as a wife, but first and foremost she’s the mother of my kids. And I will give her the respect she deserves for that, if for nothing else.” He scooted his chair back and grabbed his plate to bring it into the kitchen where she stood. From the looks of his plate, she wasn’t the only one who had lost their appetite.
PURCHASE BOOKS:Amazon: bit.ly/THOBJ3AMAZON: C. Michelle Ramsey Amazon or Chelle Ramsey AmazonPAPERBACKS: (HOBJ1) https://www.createspace.com/4706061; (HOBJII) https://www.createspace.com/5546573; and (HOBJ111)
ABOUT CHELLE RAMSEY:An original Georgia Peach, Chelle Ramsey is a fiction author, writing stories to encourage, empower, entertain and strengthen readers. Many of her stories are based in her birthplace of Atlanta or her husband’s hometown of Cincinnati, where readers can relate to local hot spots and events. She wants her readers (women and men) to become empowered to rise above adversity, with faith in God, and belief in themselves. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her property management role by day, while she writes her fiction novels by night. Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she loves listening to music, and becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, and Nora Roberts. She especially relishes trying to solve the engaging mysteries of James Patterson and Stuart Woods, while eating a bowl of her favorite butter pecan ice cream. Chelle resides in a rural community of Atlanta, GA and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games with her husband.
CONTACT INFO:BLOG: www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blogWEBSITE: www.chelleramsey.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChelleRamsey?ref=hlFACEBOOK_NOVEL: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-House-of-BeJeweled-Novels/385049478363422?ref=hlTWITTER: https://twitter.com/ChellesBooksEMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.comINSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/chelleramseybooks/GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscom_Chelle
December 18, 2015
Final Giveaways in the Té's Season of Giving Contest
I know you've been waiting for this one! The Sultry Summer Nights and A Winter Rendezvous prizes!
When you hit the beach next summer (or if you take a trip somewhere warm), you'll be able to layout on this nice beach towel and read your autographed copy of Sultry Summer Nights!
OR!
You can keep warm with some hot cocoa this winter (maybe even spike it like Chrystal and Jackson!) in this travel mug! Try one of these flavored cocoas while you snuggle up with an autographed copy of A Winter Rendezvous!
Both of the raffles are below, so make sure you sign up! The contest ends on Midnight Monday! Don't forget you can enter daily. You get bonus entries if you leave a comment below or if you sign up for my newsletter! Also, if you preordered A Winter Rendezvous, you can earn bonus entries!
a Rafflecopter giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
When you hit the beach next summer (or if you take a trip somewhere warm), you'll be able to layout on this nice beach towel and read your autographed copy of Sultry Summer Nights!
OR!
You can keep warm with some hot cocoa this winter (maybe even spike it like Chrystal and Jackson!) in this travel mug! Try one of these flavored cocoas while you snuggle up with an autographed copy of A Winter Rendezvous!
Both of the raffles are below, so make sure you sign up! The contest ends on Midnight Monday! Don't forget you can enter daily. You get bonus entries if you leave a comment below or if you sign up for my newsletter! Also, if you preordered A Winter Rendezvous, you can earn bonus entries!
a Rafflecopter giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway
December 14, 2015
Té's Season of Giving Contest number 2
Hi all!
It's time for another contest! One lucky winner will get to snuggle up with this amazing blanket, featuring the Autumn Kisses cover. You will also get an autographed copy of the book as well!
Be sure to enter the raffle and for bonus entries, leave a comment below, telling me what your favorite thing about this book was!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
It's time for another contest! One lucky winner will get to snuggle up with this amazing blanket, featuring the Autumn Kisses cover. You will also get an autographed copy of the book as well!
Be sure to enter the raffle and for bonus entries, leave a comment below, telling me what your favorite thing about this book was!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
December 13, 2015
Sample Sunday: A Winter Rendezvous Cover Reveal, plus excerpt
The cover for the final Four Seasons of Love series book, A Winter Rendezvous, is here!
About the book:
Chrystal and Jackson meet while vacationing for the holidays and give into their attraction, sharing an incredible night together. Not expecting to see each other again, they are both shocked when they run into each other days later in the most unlikely place.Both are hesitant to continue where they left off after their hot night in the mountains, but they quickly learn that they can't run away from the inevitable. Their passion is steamy enough to melt the snow outside, but can they overcome obstacles thrown in their path and create something that can last a lifetime?
Excerpt:
"Are you cold?" he asked, reaching over to grab her thigh."What?" she asked. She'd been staring out the side window. He noticed her lip tugged between her teeth whenever a street light illuminated her face."Are you cold?" he repeated, even though he already knew the answer."No.""Nervous?"She turned and looked down at his hand on her leg, before looking up at his profile."Anxious," she said, with a sexy grin as she corrected him.That one word tempted him to press down on the accelerator a little harder. But he was already speeding as is. He gently squeezed her leg, before putting his hand back on the steering wheel.Soon enough, they were pulling into the driveway of his house."Nice," he heard her say, as he drove into the garage.He shut the garage with a key fob, then got out and went around to the passenger side to help her out.He unlocked the door and allowed her to walk in."Very nice," she said, looking around. She turned to face him, "Though I would have thought you to be more of a condo type of guy."Jackson shrugged, shoving his hands in his pockets, as he watched her walk around taking in her surroundings. When she stopped in front of his fireplace, she turned to face him."Would you like something to drink?" Jackson asked Chrystal.She shook her head. "No, thank you. I'm good."He grabbed a remote that controlled just about everything in his house. He hit a button and the fireplace came to life, filling the room with warmth. He hit another button and a sexy R&B station came on, playing a song about a man making love to his woman for days until the cops came knocking.He hit one more button and dimmed the lights, then tossed the remote onto the couch."Is this how you set the scene for all the ladies you bring home?" she asked, her eyes clearly conveying that he was setting the mood just right."I've never brought another woman here before. Beside, I just moved in. Even still, I typically wouldn't bring a woman back to my place.""Another rule?""That I seem to have no problem breaking where you're concerned."He stopped in front of her and watched as she pressed her back against the wall next to the fireplace.He reached out and touched her cheek with his fingertips, grazing them down her neck to the tops of her breasts that nearly spilled out of the dress. He palmed one of them in his hand and gave it a firm squeeze. Chrystal's head fell back against the wall as she let out a tiny moan. He wrapped his fingers around the front zipper of the bodycon dress."From the moment I walked into that party and saw you in this dress..." he said huskily. He'd wanted to do exactly what he was about to do, grab this tempting little zipper and see what was underneath this dress.She arched against him. "Do it," she dared him, as if reading his mind.
A Winter Rendezvous will be released December 23, 2015
About the book:
Chrystal and Jackson meet while vacationing for the holidays and give into their attraction, sharing an incredible night together. Not expecting to see each other again, they are both shocked when they run into each other days later in the most unlikely place.Both are hesitant to continue where they left off after their hot night in the mountains, but they quickly learn that they can't run away from the inevitable. Their passion is steamy enough to melt the snow outside, but can they overcome obstacles thrown in their path and create something that can last a lifetime?
Excerpt:
"Are you cold?" he asked, reaching over to grab her thigh."What?" she asked. She'd been staring out the side window. He noticed her lip tugged between her teeth whenever a street light illuminated her face."Are you cold?" he repeated, even though he already knew the answer."No.""Nervous?"She turned and looked down at his hand on her leg, before looking up at his profile."Anxious," she said, with a sexy grin as she corrected him.That one word tempted him to press down on the accelerator a little harder. But he was already speeding as is. He gently squeezed her leg, before putting his hand back on the steering wheel.Soon enough, they were pulling into the driveway of his house."Nice," he heard her say, as he drove into the garage.He shut the garage with a key fob, then got out and went around to the passenger side to help her out.He unlocked the door and allowed her to walk in."Very nice," she said, looking around. She turned to face him, "Though I would have thought you to be more of a condo type of guy."Jackson shrugged, shoving his hands in his pockets, as he watched her walk around taking in her surroundings. When she stopped in front of his fireplace, she turned to face him."Would you like something to drink?" Jackson asked Chrystal.She shook her head. "No, thank you. I'm good."He grabbed a remote that controlled just about everything in his house. He hit a button and the fireplace came to life, filling the room with warmth. He hit another button and a sexy R&B station came on, playing a song about a man making love to his woman for days until the cops came knocking.He hit one more button and dimmed the lights, then tossed the remote onto the couch."Is this how you set the scene for all the ladies you bring home?" she asked, her eyes clearly conveying that he was setting the mood just right."I've never brought another woman here before. Beside, I just moved in. Even still, I typically wouldn't bring a woman back to my place.""Another rule?""That I seem to have no problem breaking where you're concerned."He stopped in front of her and watched as she pressed her back against the wall next to the fireplace.He reached out and touched her cheek with his fingertips, grazing them down her neck to the tops of her breasts that nearly spilled out of the dress. He palmed one of them in his hand and gave it a firm squeeze. Chrystal's head fell back against the wall as she let out a tiny moan. He wrapped his fingers around the front zipper of the bodycon dress."From the moment I walked into that party and saw you in this dress..." he said huskily. He'd wanted to do exactly what he was about to do, grab this tempting little zipper and see what was underneath this dress.She arched against him. "Do it," she dared him, as if reading his mind.
A Winter Rendezvous will be released December 23, 2015
