M.J. Kane's Blog

Living Life's Moments

There comes a time when everyone and everything around you has changed. Friends come and go, family is lost, and the next generation is born. Going to work takes over daily life; before you know it, time has moved on, and you are left with memories. Some good, some bad. Some decisions have improved our lives, while others...not so much. 

Regardless of who we are or the amount of money in our bank account, we have one thing in common:

...we all have moments.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a moment as:

1a: a minute portion or point of time; INSTANT (a moment of dreadful suspense)

2a: present time  (at the moment, she is at work on her fourth novel)

One thing the world learned together is the value of time. 2020 and the onset of COVID made the WORLD stand still. Who would have thought that would happen??? While it was scary and unnerving not knowing what would happen, it gave everyone back the one thing we never realized we missed so much...TIME!!! Time spent with friends or family. Time to discover something you were good at...or not. 😄 Now the world, for the most part, has gone back to normal, with one exception...time is flying by even faster! And the memories we have are of key moments in time that left a mark.

The concept of moments has my creative juices flowing for stories that focus on the situations that challenge us, wake us up, and introduce us to the possibilities of our future...as long as we take advantage of the Moment. A few years ago, I wrote a story with the elements, The Photoshoot.

The Photoshoot is about Latrice, a woman in her forties who goes for a professional headshot to be used on a dating website. It's the last thing she wants to do, but when her friends insist she update her online dating profile, she gives in. But what she gets out of it when she meets the studio owner, Phillip, is the last thing she could ever have imagined! Readers have asked what could have happened next. Now, it's time to find out!

Developing picks up a few days after the two meet at Images, Phillip's photography studio. Their first attempt to get to know each other was cut short, and he has made plans that are nothing like what Latrice expects. What will happen at this Moment?

The Photoshoot and Developing are perfect steamy lunchtime reads! Get The Photoshoot for FREE when you sign up for my newsletter. When you are done, grab that Kindle and continue the story with Developing, but be warned, there is a part two to this story! 😁 And while you wait, visit my website to ensure you've read the Butterfly Memoirs! And last but not least, please share a review! I love hearing what readers have to say! 

Till next time, Read Happy, and Stay Safe! 

MJ

Writing Full Circle

Eleven years ago, I wrote a blog post entitled, My Straight Jacket is Purple…How About Yours? I wrote that post (the most read on my old blog) while sitting in the adult section of the Riverdale Library Branch of the Clayton County Library System. It took two years to write the first book of The Butterfly Memoirs series, A Heart Not Easily Broken, and I was writing the final chapters of the next book, Jaded

A lot has changed since then.

That blog was written in 2011. Since then, I have published six novels in The Butterfly Memoirs series. Each book was written while visiting one of the branches. I wrote the first novels while my kids to checked out books, participated in programs, or when I wanted a different writing space. I wrote the fourth book in the series, Nobody's Business, when I became a library volunteer at the Jonesboro Branch. Later, I was hired and worked in the Children's Department of the Headquarters Branch for a brief time before working at the Morrow Branch, where I became the Youth Services Assistant Librarian. I wrote the final two books, Alone and Shattered, during those years.

Now, I am the Youth Services Supervisor of the Children's Department of the Headquarters Branch…the same place I worked when I was first hired by the library. From author to author AND librarian.

Full circle.

Recently, I was invited to share my work at the 2022 Georgia Library Conference in Macon, Georgia, as one of the featured authors during the Author Reception. Introducing my work to colleagues from around the state was a dream! 

The Author Reception featured ten authors, andthere was a scavenger hunt. Each author submitted a fact about themselves. Attendees visited each table, asked questions, and discovered who each author was. Mine was, "I published three books before becoming a librarian." The excitement on their faces when they saw the books and read the back covers made my heart sing!!! At the end of the event, I gave a complete set of autographed books to a participant who said she couldn't wait to tell her mother they had a new series to read together!

I connected with the Keynote Speaker of the event, Ciciley Lewis, best known as the #ReadWoke librarian who wrote Issues in Action, a series for young people focusing on current events. I had the opportunity to meet some fantastic authors, too. Connie-Schofield-Morrison writes wonderful children's books about a young girl and her mother who find joy in life everywhere they go.

Join me for an evening of conversation and stories as I share my story and The Butterfly Memoirs, on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at the Headquarters Library at 6:00 pm for an in-person Q&A session. You can find the series on Amazon, Kindle Unlimited, or in the Clayton County Library System (ebook and paperback) and Fulton County Library System (ebook).

Happy Reading and Writing!

MJ

 

It's The Day After Christmas!

Let me tell you what I got today! Let Ebony and Brian's story warm your heart this holiday season! Follow this link to learn more! Be sure to follow me on Facebook, IG, Twitter, and subscribe to my newsletter so you don't miss out on my gift to you next week!!! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #romanticwomensfiction #ebook #storytelling #characters #reality #friendsbeforelovers. #free #romanceisabonusbook #relationships #womenempowerment #womenwritingfiction #interracialcouples #interraciallove #interracialromance #interracialrelationships #bookclubs #kindleunlimitedromance #kindle #KTEK #GrindFactoryStudios #GrindFactoryTheLable #LearnLifeLessons #Music

Family for the Holidays: Chapter 5: Christmas Day- December 25th- Brian

Have you ever read a story, loved the ending, but wished you knew what happened next? So do I, which is why I wrote this follow up novella to A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN! Follow Brian and Ebony as their parents meet for the first time, just in time for Christmas! Visit my website daily for the next chapter of the story. And I have gifts! Read today's chapter, then click the Rafflecopter link below to enter! Enter every day and increase your chances to win! I hope you enjoy visiting Brian and Ebony again! From my family to yours, Happy Holidays! Chapter 5 Christmas Day- December 25th Brian “Merry Christmas, Brian!” my sisters sang as I entered the kitchen. The room was filled with the aromas of Christmas dinner and the sound of my sisters singing Christmas carols. Andrea and Lisa assisted my mother as she finished making dinner. Caroline sat at the kitchen table, bottle feeding her newborn son. Bridget danced around everyone, doing absolutely nothing, as usual, except using the wooden spoon as a microphone. In the middle, were my fiancée and her mother. Mrs. Campbell sat at the kitchen table nursing a cup of coffee, bewildered and amused. Ebony seemed to enjoy every minute of it. I walked among the group and kissed them each on the cheek. To my surprise, Ebony’s mother allowed me to give her one as well. After her standoffish greeting at the airport, we had yet to have a one-on-one conversation. Maybe her husband shared the talk we had the day before, and it had won her over. Either way, I would take whatever she wanted to give. “It smells good in here,” I said. As tempting as it was to sneak a taste of the dishes lining the kitchen island, I knew better. “Thank you,” my mother said. “Do you guys mind if I borrow Ebony for a moment?” “No,” my sisters sang. Ebony followed me out of the kitchen and into the dining room. My mother’s fine china, used only for special occasions, sat on the table along with other decorative items used for family gatherings. The minute we were out of sight of my nosey family, I pulled her in my arms and kissed her. “Want to sneak back outside tonight?” Her arms went around my neck as she laughed. “I don’t know. I had a hard time sleeping last night. It was a combination of wanting more and guilt.” I chuckled. “Hey, you’re the one who started it. I’d rather think the wanting is what kept you up. Did you make the call?” She nodded. “Yes, and everything has been worked out. Now we just have to make the announcement.” She inhaled deeply. “I’m not sure how they’re going to take it.” “Neither am I, but it’s our decision.” I pulled back, so our eyes met. “You and me?” She smiled. “You and me.” *** With dinner time nearing, everyone was either in the living room, kitchen, or my father’s man-cave watching television. I snuck out on the back porch for a few minutes of silence. The last few days of being with my family were inspirational. The sounds and emotions that flowed through the house created a rhythm and melody that had flowed in my head all week. “Brian, can I talk to you for a minute?” I turned to find Mrs. Campbell standing behind me. “Sure. It’s a bit chilly out here. Do you want to go inside?” “No, here is fine.” I walked over to the patio set and pulled out a chair for her. “Thank you.” She sat down, tugging the edges of the shawl she wore around her shoulders a little tighter. “I can’t believe how much warmer it is here than it is back home. It’s still chilly, but at least you can walk outside without turning into a popsicle. Weather like this will make you want to stay in California.” “Yes, ma’am, it will. Are you enjoying your visit?” She smiled. “Yes, I am. It’s been better than I expected.” Not sure how to take the comment, I remained silent. “Let me rephrase that,” she inclined her head. “You’re better than I expected.” I thought back to conversations held with Ebony when we started dating. She told me her mother made a habit of pointing men who were talk, dark, and handsome in her direction, playing matchmaker from afar. If anyone was thrown off by her decision to be with me, it was her mother. “Brian, do you really love my daughter?” I looked her in the eye. “Yes, ma’am, I do.” “Then forgive me for asking this question, but I must. Ebony mentioned you were in a relationship with a black woman before. So, I get it, this isn’t new for you, but it is for Ebony. She says she’s ready to tackle anything life throws at you, and I believe her. But I can’t help but wonder…what happened to the last woman?” Momentarily caught off guard, I kept my mouth shut. My first instinct was to tell her it was none of her business. What happened with my previous girlfriend had nothing to do with my relationship with Ebony. I sat back in my chair. “You think I’m trying to replace my ex with another black woman?” Mrs. Campbell tilted her head as if studying my body language. “Are you?” I leaned forward in my chair, rested my elbows on the table, and linked my fingers. I kept my eyes trained on hers. “My feelings for Ebony have nothing to do with any woman from my past. The night we met, I wasn’t looking for anyone. She caught my attention as a beautiful woman I wanted to know. Skin color, race…none of that stuff mattered. I fell in love with the woman she is. Period.” I took a deep calming breath and continued, “Mrs. Campbell, I don’t take relationships lightly, nor do I play with anyone’s emotions. If you’re worried that I’ll get tired of her and leave… that will never happen. I’m in love with your daughter. I don’t know what else to say. And to be honest, my job is to make sure Ebony is satisfied with what we have. Outside opinions don’t matter. Not yours, your husband’s, and not my parents. I hope you can understand where I’m coming from. I mean no disrespect.” Mrs. Campbell’s eyebrows rose as she sat back in her seat, her lips pursed. Part of me wanted to apologize, but I hadn’t said anything to offend her. If anything, her question had hurt me. After years of watching my brothers-in-law deal with my mother, I had learned one thing; as the husband, there were times you put your foot down to gain the respect of your wife’s mother. Since I wasn’t the one Mrs. Campbell selected for her daughter, I had to make her see me for who I really am: the man who loves her daughter and the father of her future grandkids. “I know my daughter, Brian; it takes a lot to win her heart, especially if she’s got her mind set on reaching a goal. She would have moved back home a long time ago if it weren’t for the job opportunities in front of her. Can you promise me that you will continue to make her happy and support her, not just financially, but emotionally?” “Until the day I die.” She nodded slowly. “Then there’s only one thing I can say…” She rose from her seat, walked over to where I sat, and opened her arms wide. “Welcome to the family. And you can call me Mom.” *** “I am stuffed!” Ebony pushed back from the table, both hands on her belly. I looked over at her plate; there was food left. “Are you going to eat that?” I pointed to the stuffing and cranberry sauce. “Have at it.” She pushed her plate over, and I devoured the remains. There was nothing like my mother’s homemade stuffing. “Where on earth do you put all that food? If I ate like you, my hips would spread.” I swallowed, then followed it up with the soda sitting in front of me. It was the only thing that had not received a refill since dinner was served. “I burn it off. And don’t worry, if it goes to your hips, I’ll help you get rid of the calories.” I winked. Ebony laughed, then looked around the table. “It seems like everyone is nearly done. Are you ready?” I held up a finger and ate the last of the dressing. As I chewed, my gaze went around the table. Nearly everyone was here. My parents, her parents, my sisters and their husbands, and my grandparents, which was a blessing. All six of the grandkids were seated at the kids table in the kitchen. I wiped my mouth on a napkin, then picked up my glass and tapped the side with my fork. “Excuse me, everyone, can I have your attention?” I stood as everyone quieted down. Ebony stood, too. “First of all, I’d like to say thank you to the wonderful hands that prepared this evening’s meal,” I rubbed my belly as everyone murmured their appreciation. “And to anyone unable to finish their plates, I have containers with my name on them in the kitchen. No doggie bags will be allowed to leave the premises.” Laughter erupted, so I waited for it to die down. When it did, I reached for Ebony’s hand and kissed it. “This year, we have had the pleasure of having new guests join us. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell and my beautiful fiancée, Ebony.” “Thank you for having us,” Mrs. Campbell said. My parents raised their cups and saluted them. “I appreciate you guys welcoming my soon-to-be-in-laws into our family. I know every Christmas won’t be celebrated this way, but this was a great start to our future. I can’t tell you how much Ebony and I appreciate your continued support. With that said, we have an announcement.” I turned to Ebony but didn’t miss the anticipation on the faces of every woman in the room. “For the past three days, Brian and I have received advice about love and marriage, even kids,” Ebony laughed, and I chuckled. “Between our parents, there are over sixty years of experience. We love you for it.” Around us, my sisters and their spouses clapped in agreement. “With that said, we’ve decided on a date for the wedding: April 5th!” More clapping and cheering. “And…” She gripped my hand for reassurance as the din calmed down. “We’ve decided on a location. Momma Laura,” she looked at my mother. “And, Mom,” she addressed her mother, holding her gaze. “We talked about the locations you suggested, but have decided to do this our way. Our wedding will be held at the Phillips Family Inn. They have several beautiful rooms that will be perfect for the ceremony and reception. There’s also a spacious garden that will be perfect for pictures. We chose this location because it is significant to us. We built memories there and want to add one more: our wedding day. We hope you guys understand and respect our decision.” There was a moment of silence as our mothers looked at each other across the table. “If this is what you want, Ebony, then I’m happy. I’ll buy our tickets for the flight as soon as we get home,” her mother said. “I agree. Whatever you need, let me know. I’m sure Anita and I can coordinate over the phone or Facetime, or whatever! Isn’t that what technology is for?” my mom added. Both of our mothers got up from the table to hug us. “Dads, I could use some help footing the bill,” I said and received hearty laughs from both men. My niece Hannah tugged on my arm. “Hey, Uncle Brian, can you play us a song?” “That would be great!” Ebony said. “I’d love for my parents to hear you play.” “Well, it is a tradition for us to sit down after dinner and sing a few Christmas carols. Let me get my guitar.” Before long, everyone was squeezed into the living room. The children were on the floor, while the adults sat in every available seat, including chairs brought out of the dining room. I took my customary place in front of the fireplace, while Ebony sat with her parents. I played a few carols we loved to sing, laughing at the off-key notes sang by my sisters, some of it done intentionally. All the while, the notes that had been playing around in my head since before dinner came to mind. “I’ve got one last song to play. It’s my Christmas gift to all of you,” I announced. “It’s a bit different, and there are no lyrics because, honestly, I just made this up. It was inspired by my crazy, loving, and sometimes annoying family. I wouldn’t trade you guys for anything. And this is also for you, my new family.” Across the room, Ebony and her parents smiled. I closed my eyes and let the notes flow from me to the strings, humming the melody as I remembered Christmases past, and revisited the conversations had with my future family. Most of all, I thought of the love I had for Ebony and the un-known future lying ahead of us. When the song ended, the room was silent. I opened my eyes to see my mother wiping tears, while my father smiled, full of pride. Ebony’s mother had a hand over her mouth, while beside her, her husband nodded in appreciation. Ebony walked toward me. “Brian, that has to be the most beautiful song I’ve ever heard you play. Thank you.” She threw her arms around my neck and kissed me. Around us, our family clapped. “Merry Christmas, baby,” Ebony whispered. “Merry Christmas to you, too.” **Click here is you missed Chapter 4, Christmas Eve, December 24th, Part 3- Ebony Thank you for taking this journey with Ebony and Brian. I hope you enjoyed reading this peek into their lives as much as I loved writing it! If you love The Butterfly Memoirs and would like to stay in the loop of what’s coming next, please sign up for the monthly newsletter. And above all, tell a friend! If you’ve read any of the books in the Butterfly Memoirs Series, please take a moment to leave a review. Your thoughts and opinions go a long way and are much appreciated! If you haven't read the series, click here to learn more! To celebrate the end of a decade, I have a giveaway! Stop by daily to read the next chapter of FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS and enter my holiday giveaway! · First Place: An autographed paperback copy of A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN (Butterfly Memoir, Book 1) · 3 Runners Up: ebook copies of JADED (Butterfly Memoir, Book 2) OR If you've read the entire Butterfly Memoirs Series, an ebook copy of one of my favorite books, I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU by Terry McMillan! The winners will be announced Saturday, December 28th on my social media pages. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to see if you win! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #ChristmasStory #Family #Holidays #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #novella #shortstory #holidayshortstory #RomanticWomensFiction #WomensFiction #Romance #IR #InterracialCouples #interracialholidaystories #InterracialRelationships #InterracialFamilies

After Christmas Book Deals for Your New eReaders!

Christmas may have passed, but these great deals haven't! Download these #FREE and $.99 cent ebook deals today! If you have KINDLE UNLIMITED, find them there for free! Don't have KINDLE UNLIMITED, sign up now and get it free for 30 Days, or 3 months for $.99 cents! Find your next favorite read, then enter to win a cozy gift from Accent On Romance and Written Musings! Happy Holidays! Contests Dates: December 26th to 30th! ENTER NOW TO WIN! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #romanticwomensfiction #ebook #storytelling #characters #reality #friendsbeforelovers. #free #romanceisabonusbook #relationships #womenempowerment #womenwritingfiction #interracialcouples #interraciallove #interracialromance #interracialrelationships #bookclubs #kindleunlimitedromance #kindle

Family for the Holidays: Chapter 4: Christmas Eve: December 24th, Part 3- Ebony

Have you ever read a story, loved the ending, but wished you knew what happened next? So do I, which is why I wrote this follow up novella to A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN! Follow Brian and Ebony as their parents meet for the first time, just in time for Christmas! Visit my website daily for the next chapter of the story. And I have gifts! Read today's chapter, then click the Rafflecopter link below to enter! Enter every day and increase your chances to win! I hope you enjoy visiting Brian and Ebony again! From my family to yours, Happy Holidays! Chapter 4 Christmas Eve: December 24th, Part 3 Ebony “Ebony, baby, wake up.” I opened my eyes in a dark room. Brian loomed over the bed, his blond hair illuminated by the light streaming through the bedroom window. I rubbed my eyes. “What time is it?” After a day spent shopping and preparing for tomorrow’s activities with my mother and Mrs. Young, I was exhausted. “Nearly midnight. You were supposed to meet me outside ten minutes ago.” The mattress lowed on one side as Brian sat down. I rested a hand on his thigh. I wanted him to crawl in between the sheets with me and talk in bed. But I knew my man. Talking would lead to cuddling, which would lead to kissing, and end in sex. I had no problem with all three activities, but his mother’s rules about unmarried couples sleeping together in her house were finite. I was not about to break them. “Are you sure we can’t talk here? It’s warm, and I’m comfortable.” I put on my best smile, but it was no use; he couldn’t see it in the dark. “Don’t tempt me.” He slipped his hand in mine. “Let’s go. I promise you’ll be comfortable, but grab a jacket.” He stood and pulled me up with him. I still wore my clothes from earlier in preparation for our late-night rendezvous. I slipped on my tennis shoes and grabbed my jacket. Our fingers linked, I followed Brian into the hall, tiptoeing past the guest room where my parents slept, and his parents’ master bedroom. The lights in both rooms were off, but a faint blue glow ran underneath his parents’ door. “They sleep with the television on,” he whispered. We crept slowly down the steps. “Follow my lead, step where I step,” he instructed. I nodded and did as he suggested, only missing one spot. The creak of that step sounded like a gunshot in the quiet room. We froze. No doors opened. I suppressed a giggle while Brian stifled a laugh. We made our way through the dark house and out the sliding glass door in the kitchen. Instead of stopping at the patio table and chairs on the back porch, Brian retrieved a flashlight from the railing and led me across the backyard. I looked at the newly built gazebo. “We’re not going there?” “No. We need privacy. We can still be seen if anyone looks outside. We’re going to the treehouse.” Brian handed me the flashlight and lowered the rope steps. He reached for the light, stuck it between his teeth, and climbed. I lifted my head and watched. When he reached the top, he looked down. “Come on.” “I must be crazy,” I murmured, testing the rope to be sure it would support my weight. “If I fall on my ass, I’m kicking yours,” I said, loud enough for Brian to hear. When I reached the top, I crawled through a small door into a room that was big enough for us to sit facing each other. The flashlight sat on its flat base; the light reflected off the ceiling and bounced off the wooden walls. I wiped my hands on my jeans and looked around. Pictures, drawings, and posters lined the walls, while a box filled with a variety of toys sat in the corner. “My father and I built this when I was eight. Now my niece and nephews play here when they visit.” He chuckled. “You know, my sisters used to sneak out here late at night to make out with their boyfriends when our parents were asleep.” I laughed. “I assume you did, too.” His lopsided grin I loved so much appeared. “Of course.” I shook my head, trying to ignore the green-eyed monster of jealousy. It wasn’t often that I thought about the women from his past. “Don’t worry, I never got past second base with anyone up here.” His eyes turned mischievous. “I’d love to do it with you, though.” I covered my mouth and laughed. “But your mother’s rule—” “Only applies inside the house. We’re outside.” He wagged his eyebrows, then reached into a box beside him. “And I’ve come prepared.” He pulled out candles and a lighter. A large blanket, a small bottle of wine, and plastic cups followed. Brian always had a way of bending rules to meet his needs. My heart warmed. “When did you have time to do this?” “When no one was looking.” We maneuvered around the small space, spreading out the blanket. I lit the candles while he poured the wine. After I sipped the chilled liquid, I said, “This is perfect. I thought today would never end. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it, but I’ve missed being with you.” “I’ve missed you, too.” Brian settled against the opposite wall. “What went on in the kitchen?” I sighed. “In a nutshell… I was told we don’t need to drag our feet with starting a family. Oh, and deciding where to have our wedding is going to be a pain in our backsides.” Brian lifted his head from the wall. “What?” I nodded, sipped again. “You heard me. Apparently, waiting a few years to have kids is going to make us ancient by the time they get to be teenagers.” Brian laughed. “Which one of our mothers said that?” “Both.” He cringed. “Yikes. And the wedding?” “Remember when I told you the last time my mother assumed that I was getting married, she started planning the event?” “Yes.” “She informed me that she’s already talked to my pastor back home and has the church reserved. All she needs is the date.” His eyebrows went up. “Okay…” “Oh, that’s not the half of it. Your mom insisted the church your sisters were married in is the perfect location, especially since your family is so big.” He whistled. “What did you say?” “Nothing other than we haven’t decided on a date yet.” Brian shook his head. “How was the ride with my dad?” Brian’s brow rose as he looked at his nearly empty cup. “Enlightening and informative.” It was my turn to look confused. “How so?” “Do you want the long or short version?” “Short, that’s all I think I can handle.” I emptied my cup and reached for the bottle. “He admitted he had reservations about me being white, but said since meeting my family, he’s happy if you’re happy.” “Hey, that’s great news!” Then I realized Brian wasn’t exactly smiling. “Did I miss something?” His deep blue eyes turned intense when what he was about to say was important. “Can I ask you a question? I need you to be honest.” “Always.” I gave him my undivided attention. “Your father made some good points about what it takes for a man to support his family. It’s funny, even he mentioned kids.” I nearly choked on my wine. “You’re kidding.” He shook his head. “Nope, I got family advice, too, the practical side that is. He made me think about something I haven’t considered. With both of us determined to see our careers grow, what happens if you get pregnant before we’ve reached them?” Instinctively, my hand went to my belly. Brian’s eyes followed. “Would you want to go right back to work, or would you prefer to stay at home?” I shrugged. “I don’t know. After talking to my sister, I know daycare can be expensive, and I don’t like the idea of someone else raising my child during the day.” “Neither do I. But what if we needed the money?” That was a sobering thought. “What are you saying, Brian?” He took a deep breath. “I’m saying…maybe I should cut back on the music and focus on building my business. It was a way to supplement my income while I focused on my career. It worked when it was just me, but now…” He looked at his cup again. “The business has grown over the last few months. If I focus on it, with my cousin’s help, I can make it into more. We’ll need that type of stability in the future. I can make a decent living off my contract with the studio and playing gigs. The major money is in touring, but I’m not about to go down that path again. The last time was…” He looked away. “I’m not leaving you like that again, especially if we have a child.” “Brian, are you saying you’re going to give up everything you’ve worked for because of something my father said?” He scooted around, as if suddenly uncomfortable with the thought. “I want to provide a good life for us. You’re about to be my wife and—─” “And I want you to be happy about it.” I set down my cup and moved closer to where he sat. His eyes were cast down. I lifted his head until our eyes connected. “Can you honestly say you’d be happy if you put your dream aside?” I gazed into the cerulean eyes I loved and saw him at war with himself, trying to say something I knew he wouldn’t believe. “No,” he admitted. “Then, don’t walk away from what makes you happy. That’s like asking me to quit school and give up on becoming a veterinarian. Not about to happen. I’m this close,” I held up two fingers to demonstrate, “to earning the degree it took eight years to get. Walking away now would be throwing away eight years of my life. The same for you. You’ve got talent like I’ve never seen, and you are good at what you do. One of the worst things you can do in life is to give up something you love. You’d be miserable, and for what? I’m not pregnant. We have time. I don’t want you regretting our relationship because my father is making you doubt your career. I’m happy with you and your career…now and in the future. What happens next is our decision. Where we work…where we get married...when we start our family.” I swallowed hard, forcing the lump I felt in the back of my throat to go away. If I weren’t careful, tears would follow. “You’re right.” He pulled the hand I placed on his cheek to his lips and kissed my ring finger. Then he chuckled. “And to think, a month ago, we were worried your parents wouldn’t support our relationship. Now we’ve got support, but it’s the real-life issues that are stressing us out.” “Tell me about it.” I settled into his embrace as he pulled me next to him. “What are we going to do about the wedding? Tomorrow is Christmas Day, and your entire family will be here. They’re going to expect us to announce a date.” Brian kissed my forehead. “You’re right. You know, we could always do like my cousin and run off to Vegas. We could sneak away for the weekend, then Facetime everyone so they can be there.” I laughed. “Don’t tempt me. I say we don’t worry about what our mothers want. We’re the ones getting married. Why don’t we find someplace neutral?” Brian nodded. “I like the way you think. Got someplace in mind?” “The perfect place. I’ll need to make a call in the morning. What time is it anyway?” Brian dug his phone out of his pocket. “Damn, it’s way past midnight.” “Christmas morning?” He nodded. “You do realize this is our first Christmas together.” I let a seductive smile play across my lips and saw his eyes light up in response. His focus went to my mouth as the deviousness I loved came out to play. “Indeed. What are you thinking?” I scooted away from him and settled on the blanket. It wasn’t a bed, but it could work. “I’m thinking we celebrate early. We may not be in our house, but I’m sure I can knock out the memory of Betty Sue or Sara-what’s-her-name who wouldn’t let you get past second base.” I beckoned him with a crook of my finger. Brian laughed, set down his cup, and moved the lit candles out of the way. He settled in the space of my open legs, resting his elbows on either side of my head. “You know, I think you’re right.” Our lips fused together as my hands dug deep into his blond waves. The feel of Brian’s body pressed against mine would never get old. I pushed all thought and worry about family aside and focused on what was important…the here and now. The love that we shared. The future we were building. Now all I had to do was keep from moaning too loudly. The neighbors had dogs. No need to wake up the entire neighborhood. Brian’s mouth left mine and traveled the expanse of my throat. In between kisses, he said, “I love you.” I sighed. “I love you, too.” Introducing your parents to your future inlaws is one thing, but when the families are from two different races and spend the holidays under one roof for Christmas? Anything can happen! Stop by tomorrow for the conclusion: Chapter 5: Christmas Day, December 25th. To celebrate the end of a decade, I have a giveaway! Stop by daily to read the next chapter of FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS and enter my holiday giveaway! · First Place: An autographed paperback copy of A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN (Butterfly Memoir, Book 1) · 3 Runners Up: ebook copies of JADED (Butterfly Memoir, Book 2) OR If you've read the entire Butterfly Memoirs Series, an ebook copy of one of my favorite books, I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU by Terry McMillan! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #ChristmasStory #Family #Holidays #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #novella #shortstory #holidayshortstory #RomanticWomensFiction #WomensFiction #Romance #IR #InterracialCouples #interracialholidaystories #InterracialRelationships #InterracialFamilies

Family for the Holidays: Chapter 2: Christmas Eve- December 24th, Part 1-Ebony

Have you ever read a story, loved the ending, but wished you knew what happened next? So do I, which is why I wrote this follow up novella to A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN! Follow Brian and Ebony as their parents meet for the first time, just in time for Christmas! Visit my website daily for the next chapter of the story. And I have gifts! Read today's chapter, then click the Rafflecopter link below to enter! Enter every day and increase your chances to win! I hope you enjoy visiting Brian and Ebony again! From my family to yours, Happy Holidays! Chapter 2 Christmas Eve- December 24th, Part 1 Ebony My mother-in-law-to-be led us into the kitchen. “Ebony, Anita, we’re going to have so much fun!” My mom and I laughed at Mrs. Young’s enthusiasm. We’d spent the day going from store to store, picking up last-minute gifts and ingredients for her Christmas breakfast and dinner dishes. The Young family’s customs were nothing like my family’s. I watched my mother as she stopped herself on several occasions from suggesting where the other woman should place a decorative item or exactly what meals should be on the menu. I had to say…she was a trooper. This was the first time my mother would not be hosting Christmas dinner at our family home. Every year, no matter where we were, our family dropped everything to be together. Especially since Trevon and I graduated high school and went to college. I’d moved to California to attend UCLA, while my brother, Trevon, attended college in Atlanta, Georgia. After graduation, he’d made Atlanta his home. My older sister, LaShana, and her husband and daughter were the only ones living near mom and dad. I snuck a peek at my mom as she accepted the old recipe from Laura’s family cookbook. She scanned the ingredients and plastered on a smile. It wasn’t a dish she was familiar with. When it came to something new, my mother had to be prodded to accept change. I could tell she longed for the dishes she customarily made back home. I felt a pang of guilt. Once again, my decisions affected those I loved. If I had opened up about what was going on in my life, things would be a lot different now. I would have been home, and Brian would be with me, meeting my entire family. Instead, he had obligations to attend to that kept us in town. But when I thought about it, things were working out the way they should. Soon, Brian and I would be starting our own family traditions, as a married couple. Between my family across the country, and his large family in town, deciding where we spent the holidays would be a challenge. Having my parents meet my future in-laws now instead of on our wedding day would make the decisions we made easier. “Oh, crap, where are my manners?” Laura said. I looked up to see her watching my mother. “I didn’t ask if there were something you’d like to make for dinner. I’m so sorry.” My mom smiled. “Oh, it’s not a problem. Everyone does things differently.” “Yes, it is. It’s probably too late to plan a meal. Would you like to make something for dessert?” My mother’s eyes brightened. “Are you sure you wouldn’t mind?” “Of course not.” Laura smiled. She walked over to the refrigerator and removed the mini notepad and pen that were stuck on with a magnet. “Write down what you need. Whatever we don’t have, I’ll send Brian to the store to get.” “Okay, wow, I’m not sure what to make!” My mom put her hands on her hips, deep in thought. “How about your famous banana pudding? I haven’t had it in ages,” I suggested. “Perfect!” both women said in unison. My mother jotted down the ingredients from memory. “Mama Laura, what time is Bridget going to be here?” I asked. Mrs. Young smiled at my choice of name to call her. “Bridget?” My mom looked up from her notes. “She’s one of Brian’s sisters. You’ll love her. She’s a riot,” I said. “That’s right, I remember you telling me about her. Laura, how many children do you have?” my mom asked. “Five. Four girls and one boy. Brian is the baby.” Laura selected a pot from the cabinet, then put her hands on her hips as if reviewing the inventory. “I hear you have twins. How fun was that?” She glanced over her shoulder. My mother laughed. “Honestly? Not as much fun as you would think during the first few months. Sleep was a commodity not easy to come by. Let’s not talk about potty training and learning how to walk.” She looked at me and shook her head. “What?” “Wait until you have your own kids.” Laura laughed. “Do twins run in your family?” “Yes, they do,” mom confirmed. “And that’s why I’m not in a rush to start a family.” Both women looked at me as if I’d used profanity. Neither woman lacked in the grandkids department. Laura had six, and my mother had one. My twin brother and I weren’t in a hurry to add to the Campbell family tree. “Does Brian feel the same way?” my mom asked. “Um…yes, we’ve had this conversation.” A feeling of unease hit the pit of my stomach. A quick glance at my mother and the look on her face didn’t help. “We are both starting out in our careers and want to get stabilized first. I have a few more months until I graduate college, and he’s still making a name for himself at the studio. We’ve got three years until we turn thirty. We’ve got time.” Both women looked at each other, their smiles nearly mirroring each other. “Baby, I was twenty-one when I gave birth to your sister, and twenty-three by the time you and Trevon came along. I couldn’t imagine doing it when I was older than that.” My mother shook her head. “You have no idea how much energy it took to keep you two out of trouble.” Laura laughed. “Tell me about it. I started young, too. It seemed like they just kept popping out. Give birth to one, look at Winfred, then I was pregnant again.” I laughed along with them and ignored the momentary flashback to when there was a chance I was pregnant. Even then, I was sure the Young men were potent. A twinge in my gut made me nauseated. I pushed the reminder of the decisions of my past aside. There were some things Brian and I chose to keep private. “When the time comes, I’ll be sure to Facetime you both so you know at the same time.” “Let them know what?” We turned to see Bridget breeze into the kitchen, her arms loaded with groceries, her blond pixie-cut hair tousled. “Trust me, you don’t want to know,” I warned. One thing I’d learned about Bridget, she was in no rush to be attached to any man, much less have a baby. She studied me, looked at the older women, then back at me. “You know…you’re right.” She went to her mother, gave her a hug. “You owe me, Mom. This is the last Christmas Eve I go shopping. If Caroline didn’t just have her baby…” She rolled her eyes. “Anyway, that was rude. Hi, I’m Bridget.” She extended a hand to my mother. “This is my mother, Anita,” I said, praying Bridget’s appearance would change the current subject. “It’s nice to meet you.” Bridget walked to the kitchen table and grabbed a bright red apple from the fruit bowl, rinsed it off, took a bite, then chewed. “Where’s Dad?” “Your father, Clarence, and Brian are in your father’s man-cave. When it comes to cooking, Winfred stays away from the kitchen, but if it has to do with grilling, that’s his territory,” she advised my mom, who nodded in understanding. “No surprise there.” Bridget took another bite and chewed. “Well, it’s obvious I’m here in time for cooking. What have I missed? Have we started planning the wedding yet?” “No, but there’s no time like the present.” My mother’s eyes lit up. I knew exactly where this was about to go. “Ebony, I’ve talked to our pastor back home, and he said he’s more than willing to perform the ceremony. All we have to do is notify him of the date, and the church will be reserved.” Laura looked up from the cookbook she’d pulled out. “I thought the wedding was going to be here in L.A. The church we attend is beautiful. There’s plenty of seating, and all of my daughters have gotten married there. Well, except for Bridget.” My soon-to-be-sister-in-law rolled her eyes and continued eating. All eyes centered on me. I bit my lip. “Well…with everything that’s been going on, we haven’t set an exact date yet, much less decided where to hold it.” “Well, that’s a no-brainer. North Carolina is your home. You grew up there and have family and friends who haven’t seen you in years. What’s there to think about?” My mother stated. “Brian has family here, too. If you have it in North Carolina, a lot of people won’t be able to attend. Andrea and Lisa have small kids, and Caroline just had the baby…” Both women started going back and forth, listing the pluses and negatives of each location as if I were no longer in the room. I was scared to utter a word for fear it would turn into World War III. “Holy crap, I didn’t mean to start an argument,” Bridget murmured out of the side of her mouth when she joined me at the kitchen island. Both of us watched our mothers, shocked at how fast the ambiance in the room had changed. “Have you guys decided what you want to do?” she asked. I shook my head. “Not yet.” It was apparent that whatever we decided, neither of our families would be happy. Chapter 3 Christmas Eve- Part 2 Brian My father jumped out of his recliner as his favorite football team scored. “Go, go, go! Yes! See, Brian, I told you! Pay up, Clarence!” Beside me, my future father-in-law shook his head. “That was just luck.” He dug into his wallet and pulled out money to pay his debt. “No, that was an athlete who knows how to play the game,” Dad said, laughing as he collected his winnings. I dug into my pocket and gave my dad a dollar before glancing at Clarence. He appeared calm, even though his team was losing. The good-natured bets going back and forth between us was an easy way to study the temperament of my future father-in-law. After last night’s handshake, I was still on edge. He sipped his beer and studied my father’s movie posters on the wall during the commercial break. “Nice place you’ve got here, Winfred. I’ve tried to get Anita to let me have a man-cave inside the house.” He shook his head. “After thirty years of paying the mortgage, you’d think I would have earned a room. Instead, I got pushed into the garage.” Both men laughed. “What we won’t do for the women we love, eh?” My dad supplied. Clarence raised his bottle. “Here, here.” Both men looked at me. I held my bottle up in agreement then gulped. A soft knock on the door drew everyone’s attention. Ebony peeked into the room. “Excuse me, Brian, could you run to the store before they close? Your mom made a list.” She held up a sheet of paper. I tried to hide my relief. “Sure.” If I were lucky, Ebony would be able to sneak away with me. After my mother’s invitation to spend the week at the house with everyone else, Ebony and I had gone to our respective homes and grabbed clothes. Our original plan had been to spend the rest of the holiday at our new home. Three weeks had passed since we signed the lease. Ebony came by periodically to help unpack and set up things. A few of her personal items had made their way over. Her official move-in date was a few days after Christmas. Regardless, my attempt to convince her to spend at least one night at our new home and come back in the morning hadn’t worked. She insisted on not disappointing our parents. In the end, not only had I slept alone, I slept in my childhood bed. My mother insisted we sleep in separate rooms because we weren’t married. She knew we had sex, but my parents were old fashioned. Unwed? No sex in my beds! was her motto. Knowing my fiancée slept down the hall in addition to the intimidation under the same roof with her father made a good night’s sleep hard to come by. I joined Ebony in the hallway. “How are things in the kitchen?” She slipped her arms around my waist and laid her head on my chest. “Up until twenty minutes ago, fine.” I caught the change in her voice; she was no longer as excited as she’d been at breakfast. In need of a physical connection as much as she apparently did, I held her tight. “What happened? Is everything okay?” Before she could reply, I heard the door to the man-cave open behind me. “Hey, Brian, do you mind if I ride with you? I could use a bit of fresh air.” Clarence’s booming voice forced me to jump away from Ebony, as if we were teenagers caught red-handed. My back was turned to him, so he couldn’t see my initial cringe as I squeezed my eyes shut. “Sure. I’ll be ready to leave in five minutes.” “Let me grab my shoes.” Clarence walked by me, stopped at Ebony, who’d stepped away from me, and kissed her cheek before heading for the stairs. Ebony watched as he disappeared, then turned to me. “I saw that look. Things aren’t going well in there, either?” I shrugged. “Our fathers are getting along fine. Men are easy. Beer, sports, everything is all good.” She cocked her head to the side, studying me. “What about you?” “I’m hanging in there.” It was my turn to study her. “How about you? You guys seem to be getting along great. We can hear the laughter over the T.V.” Ebony ran a hand over her head. “Woman can be touchy, especially when the subject of weddings and babies comes up.” She shuddered. I was about to ask for details when I heard her father’s heavy footfalls on the stairs. I kissed her quick. “We’ll talk tonight after everyone goes to bed, okay?” “Sounds like a plan. Be safe.” She kissed me again and headed for the kitchen. “Ready to go?” Clarence asked. “Yes, sir.” *** We were in my truck, merging into traffic when Clarence spoke. “Brian, I have to be honest. When my daughter told us she’d been dating a white man and that you were engaged, I had my reservations. Even after she told us about what you’ve done for her, I still was wary. Things were different when my wife and I got married, but times have changed. We raised our children to be open-minded, loving, and honest individuals. As a father, it’s hard to imagine your little girls growing up and being involved with a man. You worry about how well they’ll be treated and if the guy really loves them…” His voice drifted off as if in remembering something. “Then one day they say, ‘Pop, I’m getting married.’” You learn to handle it and move on, but it’s never easy. “Ebony has always been strong-minded, hard-headed, and determined to have what she wants. Ever since she was a little girl.” He chuckled. “I can’t tell you how many times she almost gave her mother a heart attack by bringing injured animals home and hiding them in the garage.” I smiled, trying to picture Ebony doing those things. Then I felt Clarence staring at me. My smile dropped. “You’ll have to forgive me if I’ve come off as rude. With everything my daughter has told us over the last few weeks, it was quite a shocker. What happened to her…what you did…the engagement…that was a lot of information to process at one time.” “And the fact that I’m white.” I glanced over in time to see him crack a small smile and nod. “Yes, that was a big shock too.” I braced myself for what he was about to say next. “Since meeting you and your family, I understand why she loves you. You’re a good man and come from a good family.” My mouth fell open. I risked a glance as I drove to make sure I hadn’t misheard. Clarence watched me, an enormous smile on his face. “Thank you, sir,” I stammered. His thunderous laugh reverberated in the car. “You were scared, huh? I must say you did better than my other son-in-law. The poor boy nearly pissed his pants the first time he met me, and he’s black.” I found myself laughing. “Well, I didn’t have problems with my bodily functions, but my hand still aches.” “Sorry about that. I hope it’s not one you play with.” I shook my head. “It’s fine. I’ve done a lot worse. When I first met Ebony, I did yard maintenance for a living. There were numerous times when I had cuts and bruises on my hands and still had to perform. Professionals learn to do what you must for the show to go on.” He nodded. “True. Which is what I want to talk to you about.” Something about his words set me on edge. “What’s on your mind, sir?” “You can call me Clarence, or Dad, whichever one you’re comfortable with.” He watched my nod. “My daughter comes from a family of hard workers. You’ve seen it for yourself. She’s worked hard to get where she is in her career.” “Yes, sir. I support her with anything she wants to do. That’s one of the reasons why I fell in love with her.” I watched him nod with my peripheral vision. “So I’ve heard. I understand you have a pretty good work ethic, too. You’re a musician and own your own business. How do you balance the two?” “I’ve got family; my cousins are running the business for now. I join in when I have time. But working for B&D Records pays well, too.” “How long do you plan to stay there?” “Excuse me?” I gave him my full attention when we reached a red light. “Musicians tend to move from job to job. It’s not like working for a corporation that pays for your health insurance and gives you a 401K. There’s no retirement fund. What happens when Ebony gets pregnant, and you guys need a bigger place? What about when you have a second or third kid? Life won’t get easier. I know my daughter is going to get the job at the zoo she wants, but how long will she be able to work once she’s pregnant? What if she takes off from work and decides she’d rather stay home with the kids? Will you be able to handle the expenses with the job you have now?” Clarence looked at me full on. Nothing about his facial expression or body language said he disliked my choice of careers. He was asking real-world questions. “To be honest…” I gripped the steering wheel. “I don’t know. I’ve thought about some of it, but right now, children are not high on our list.” “Do you guys have a five-year plan? Ten-year? Anything?” I shook my head. The plans Ebony and I had made were about our jobs and getting married. Now that I thought about it, even that was unfinished. We had yet to set a definite date. “We’re moving in together this weekend.” My eyebrows furrowed. “I guess with everything that’s happened, we’ve skipped ahead a few steps.” “I’m glad you’re willing to admit it,” Clarence said. “There’s one thing I want you to remember.” He paused, waiting for me to look in his direction. “Nothing is set in stone. Plans can be broken, updated, and reevaluated at any time. Trust me. I’ve been married to Ebony’s mother for over thirty years. Sometimes I knew where we were going in life. Other times, I was flying by the seat of my pants. I didn’t always share the ups and downs with Anita; the stress would have been too much. There were times when I carried the burden alone. As men, that’s what we do to take care of our families. Remember that. But don’t just take my word for it, ask your father. I’m sure he’s got some stories,” he chuckled, “especially when raising five kids. And four daughters?” He whistled. “Two was enough for me.” I smiled then got lost in thought. Clarence had given me a lot to think about. While Ebony said she was supportive of my career, how long would it last? We avoided the baby roulette game once, but what if it happened again? We’d welcome our baby, no doubt about it. But what about everything it would take to care for my family? Insurance. Housing. Daycare. And what if she did want to stay at home? Could my current career handle all of that on one income? Yes, Ebony and I needed to talk tonight. Brian and Ebony haven't been engaged long and already both families have a lot to say. From wedding plans to life-changing advice; both must see past the happy glow of love and look at reality. Are Brian and Ebony truly ready to deal with what's to come? Stop by tomorrow for Chapter 4: Christmas Eve, December 24th Part 3! To celebrate the end of a decade, I have a giveaway! Stop by daily to read the next chapter of FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS and enter my holiday giveaway! · First Place: An autographed paperback copy of A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN (Butterfly Memoir, Book 1) · 3 Runners Up: ebook copies of JADED (Butterfly Memoir, Book 2) OR If you've read the entire Butterfly Memoirs Series, an ebook copy of one of my favorite books, I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU by Terry McMillan! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #ChristmasStory #Family #Holidays #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #novella #shortstory #holidayshortstory #RomanticWomensFiction #WomensFiction #Romance #IR #InterracialCouples #interracialholidaystories #InterracialRelationships #InterracialFamilies

Family for the Holidays: Chapter 1: The Meeting- December 23rd

Have you ever read a story, loved the ending, but wished you knew what happened next? So do I, which is why I wrote this follow up novella to A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN! Follow Brian and Ebony as their parents meet for the first time, just in time for Christmas! Visit my website daily for the next chapter of the story. And I have gifts! Read today's chapter, then click the Rafflecopter link below to enter! Enter every day and increase your chances to win! I hope you enjoy visiting Brian and Ebony again! From my family to yours, Happy Holidays! The Meeting- December 23rd Brian Ebony’s phone dinged. She peered at the screen. “Brian, my parents’ flight landed!” She typed a response then cursed. “I hate autocorrect. I typed whoo hoo, and it posted whoop. That’s what I get for typing too fast.” I massaged her shoulders. “Ebony, you’re too tense. Relax, baby. Everything is going to be okay.” “You don’t understand, Brian. I haven’t seen my parents in nearly a year. And after all that’s happened…” I pulled my fiancée into my arms and kissed her forehead. “Are you nervous because we’ll be together in person instead of when we did Facetime?” Ebony’s gorgeous brown eyes peered up at me as her eyebrows furrowed. “Yes.” I chuckled. “I’m supposed to be the one who’s nervous.” “You’re not?” Ebony stared at me in disbelief. “No, I’m not.” The flight status board we’d been watching finally changed from On time to Arrived. Ebony squealed with excitement, then covered her mouth. I smiled. Seeing her this happy after the events of the past month was more than I could ask for. After the turmoil our relationship had gone through, it was a blessing that we were still together. And now I was about to meet her parents—in person. I pushed aside the thought of how long it had taken Ebony to tell them about us. It turned out her fear of their disappointment because I was white had been unfounded. Her announcement had taken them by surprise, but after what I’d done in retaliation of what happened to their daughter, her parents made it clear race didn’t matter. Ebony squeezed my arm. “There they are!” She ran to her mother; they embraced while rocking back and forth. Beside Ebony and her mother stood her father, his smile wide as he waited patiently for his turn. I gave them a private moment to reconnect. Ebony’s mother took a step back and held her daughter at arm’s length, appraising her as if making sure she was all right. I couldn’t blame her. The events of the past few months and Ebony’s decision to keep it secret were one of the reasons why they’d made the trip to California for Christmas. They needed to see for themselves that she was indeed okay. “So, where is this young man?” her father bellowed, looking around the crowded area. Ebony turned, waved me over. “Brian, come meet my parents!” I paused to avoid a young man dragging a large suitcase, then made my way across the tile floor. “Mr. and Mrs. Campbell, welcome to California.” I held out my hand to Ebony’s father. He looked me up and down before he accepted the handshake. Ebony’s smile was wide. “I know it’s crazy to do this because you’ve talked on screen, but I can’t help it. Baby, these are my parents, Clarence and Anita. Mom, Dad, this is my fiancé, Brian Young.” Seeing Ebony’s parents face-to-face was nothing like looking at them on a tablet. Mrs. Campbell was the same height as her daughter, but a little thicker. Her eyes were sharp as she carefully appraised me. Her father, on the other hand, was a large man. His salt-and-pepper hair and beard gave him the look of a genteel grandfather; but his booming voice and intimidating height said otherwise. He held his hand out for another shake. “So, you’re the young man who’s stolen my daughter’s heart.” His eyes bore into mine, and his grip was tight. Although he smiled, the meaning was clear. I may be grateful for what you’ve done for my daughter, but you hurt her, and I will kill you. Clearly, even grown up, Ebony would always be Daddy’s little girl. My insides turned to jelly. Message received, loud and clear. “Yes, sir.” I ignored the pain from his two-handed grip and turned to her mother. Seeing mother and daughter side-by-side was like seeing Ebony in the future. “Mrs. Campbell, I have no doubt Ebony will be as beautiful as you are as we grow old together.” An unreadable expression passed over Mrs. Campbell’s face. “Oh, why thank you.” Inside, I kicked myself. So much for assuming my charm and wit would have the same results as it did over the phone. I had to remember, regardless of our racial differences, and the fact she wore my ring, they knew nothing about me. Moments ago, I was relaxed and calm, but between Mr. Campbell’s handshake and Mrs. Campbell’s appraising stare, I was thrown off my game. Ebony seemed oblivious. “Let’s get your suitcases from the baggage claim. Brian’s mom has put together a great dinner. I hope you’re hungry.” “Free food? Now you’re talking,” Mr. Campbell said, his attention turned back to his daughter. He walked to the luggage claim. I followed Ebony and her mother as they reconnected. *** “Mr. and Mrs. Campbell, these are my parents, Laura and Winfried Young,” I said after my mother welcomed us into the house. “Please, call me Anita, and this is Clarence,” Ebony’s mother said. She accepted my mother’s hug while Mr. Campbell shook hands with my father. My mother slipped effortlessly into hostess-mode. “Please have a seat and make yourselves comfortable.” She loved to entertain. Everyone moved to the living room while I brought in the luggage. Fine by me. I was trying my best to avoid sticking my foot in my mouth. The ride from the airport to my parents’ home couldn’t have gone fast enough. While her parents were cordial, I couldn’t help but feel as if I were the chauffeur. The conversation flowed around me, full of laughter and questions, as the family caught up on what was going on back in North Carolina. “Brian, baby, are you okay?” Ebony joined me in the foyer, concern etching her lovely features. I cleared my throat and walked toward the front door. “Yeah, I’m good. Just getting the rest of the luggage.” “You’re holding back. What’s wrong?” She poked my shoulder and followed me outside to the car. “My father made you nervous, didn’t he?” “No.” I popped the trunk and grabbed what had to be her mother’s bag. It weighed a ton. Ebony burst into laughter. “It’s okay to admit it. He’s a bit intimidating.” Intimidating wasn’t the half of it. Mr. Campbell was not a little man. Although we were the same height and he had about twenty pounds on me, his booming voice was intimidating. Although we’d talked, it was something entirely different to be face-to-face with the father of the woman I loved. For once, I could understand exactly why Ebony had been hesitant about telling them about our relationship. I shrugged. “Okay…maybe he’s a little intimidating.” Ebony forced me to put the bag I’d pulled out of the trunk on the ground. Her arms went around my neck. “Do you love me?” “You know, I do.” I leaned down for a kiss, taking my time to savor our connection. The woman I’d willingly sacrifice my life for. The woman I was ready to kill for. “Then don’t worry. My parents are staying with yours, and from what I’ve seen, I doubt they will kill each other. It’s like you told me, everything is going to be all right.” I let out a half-laugh at Ebony using my words against me. “You’re right; they’ll be here, and you’ll be with me.” I kissed her again. “I can’t wait to get you home tonight.” The sexy smile I loved appeared. “Me, neither.” I pulled away to grab the suitcase off the ground while Ebony reached for a smaller carry-on piece. We entered the foyer and dropped off the bags at the base of the steps. I had no idea which room my mother wanted them in. “Oh, there you are!” My mom walked over, hugged, and kissed Ebony. “We thought you got lost outside.” “No, just getting the bags. Which room do you want them in?” I asked. “You can put them in your sisters’ old room.” “Okay.” I grabbed a bag and started up the stairs. “Oh, by the way, we’ve been talking, and Ebony, it seems so unfair for your parents to fly across the country for Christmas to see you, only for you to live thirty minutes away. We’ve decided it would be best if both of you stayed here for the week. We’ve got plenty of room in this house. Ebony, you can sleep in one of the spare rooms. Brian, you can have your old room.” My eyes went wide. “What?” I looked over at Ebony, whose eyes were lit up. “Mrs. Young, are you sure?” she asked. My mother reached for Ebony’s hand. “How many times do I have to tell you to call me Mom?” They both laughed. “Yes, it would be perfect. Not to mention, it would save gas if we’re all together. Besides, Brian, it will give you a chance to know your future in-laws.” My mother pinched my cheek. “Don’t take too long; dinner will be served in fifteen minutes.” She left to join everyone in the living room. Ebony grabbed the carry-on bag and started up the steps. “Brian, this is going to be so much fun!” I stood at the bottom of the staircase in shock. I had a feeling this wasn’t going to be as fun as Ebony thought. Introducing your parents to your future inlaws is one thing, but when the families are from two different races and spend the holidays under one roof for Christmas? Anything can happen! Stop by tomorrow for Chapters 2 & 3: Christmas Eve! To celebrate the end of a decade, I have a giveaway! Stop by daily to read the next chapter of FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS and enter my holiday giveaway! First Place: An autographed paperback copy of A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN (Butterfly Memoir, Book 1) 3 Runners Up: ebook copies of JADED (Butterfly Memoir, Book 2) OR If you've read the entire Butterfly Memoirs Series, an ebook copy of one of my favorite books, I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU by Terry McMillan! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #ChristmasStory #Family #Holidays #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #novella #shortstory #holidayshortstory #RomanticWomensFiction #WomensFiction #Romance #IR #InterracialCouples #interracialholidaystories #InterracialRelationships #InterracialFamilies

On the 5th Day of Christmas...

Let me tell you what I got today! Let Derrick and Kelly's story warm your heart this holiday season! Follow this link to learn more! Be sure to follow me on Facebook, IG, Twitter, and subscribe to my newsletter so you don't miss out on my gift to you next week!!! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #romanticwomensfiction #ebook #storytelling #characters #reality #friendsbeforelovers. #free #romanceisabonusbook #relationships #womenempowerment #womenwritingfiction #interracialcouples #interraciallove #interracialromance #interracialrelationships #bookclubs #kindleunlimitedromance #kindle #KTEK #GrindFactoryStudios #GrindFactoryTheLable #LearnLifeLessons #Music

On the 4th Day of Christmas...

Let me tell you what I got today! Let Travon and Kai's story warm your heart this holiday season! Follow this link to learn more! Be sure to follow me on Facebook, IG, Twitter, and subscribe to my newsletter so you don't miss out on my gift to you next week!!! #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #ButterflyMemoirs #romanticwomensfiction #ebook #storytelling #characters #reality #friendsbeforelovers. #free #romanceisabonusbook #relationships #womenempowerment #womenwritingfiction #interracialcouples #interraciallove #interracialromance #interracialrelationships #bookclubs #kindleunlimitedromance #kindle #KTEK #GrindFactoryStudios #GrindFactoryTheLable #LearnLifeLessons #Music