M.J. Kane's Blog, page 5

Attraction...

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t ignore it… Excerpt: Ebony I surveyed the yard while offering him a bottle. “It looks good.” “It sure does,” Brian said. I glanced at him. He didn’t hide his examination of me. His gaze started at my bare legs and slowly traveled up. His expression made his thoughts apparent. I started to open my mouth and comment, until our eyes met. His blue eyes held mine, sending a warm tingle along my skin, reminding me of the way I felt when he held my hand. “Thanks for the water,” he said, then whistled for the workers. Try as I might, it was impossible to keep my eyes off his body when his back was to me. I took the opportunity to peek at his tattoos again. Standing this close, I could make out a little more of the intricate design. To truly see it, I would have to get close, so close I could… I looked up to find his lips tilted in a lopsided grin. Damn, busted again. Not wanting him to think I was impressed, I forced my face to stay blank. “How much is it going to cost?” Laughter danced in those gorgeous blue eyes. Brian took long draws of water, apparently in no rush to answer my question. I forced my eyes to stay on his and ignore the fact that sweat should not look so good. He raised an eyebrow. “I haven’t decided yet.” I frowned. “What do you mean? You’ve been here for nearly an hour.” He shrugged, pulled a rag from his pocket, wiped his face, and then dragged the thing down his chest. I automatically followed the movement before snapping my eyes back to his. A slow grin spread across his face. “It depends.” “On what?” “On how honest you’re going to be with me.” I clamped my jaw tight while crossing my arms, fighting the irritation building. Brian apparently thought he could do or say anything to get his way. He did it when buying me a drink at the club. He’d done it when assuming I’d meet him in VIP. Now this. My lack of a sex life and unexplained physical attraction to him made my irritability worse. “Honest about what?” I ground out. Brian’s eyes flashed with humor as he finished off the last of his water. “Why didn’t you meet me the other night? I looked for you, waited around thinking maybe you got stuck in the bathroom.” He crossed his arms, taking a wide stance. “Nothing. Not a note, no message left with security. You just disappeared.” Realization hit me. “You’re going to charge me more because I didn’t hook up with you?” “Hey, don’t put words in my mouth. I haven’t decided what to charge. That’s not the same thing.” “Okay, so what you really mean is if you like my answer, I’ll get a discount. If you don’t, then you’re going to screw me.” Brian’s mischievous smile caused me to suck my teeth. Bad choice of words. “Overcharging my customers is not good for business.” He chuckled. “Besides, offering a discount would be an incentive for you to answer the question and not avoid it the same way you avoided me.” He paused to unhook the weed whacker’s strap from around his neck and set it on the ground. He rolled his neck and shoulders, then crossed his arms and resumed his wide-legged stance. I glanced down and noticed the slight bow in his muscular legs. Damn, he looked good. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 3 ****FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME!**** Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now!
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Sweat Never Looked So Good...

Sometimes a good looking man is just that….a really…good…looking…man…*sigh*... Chapter 3 Ebony The stench of work swirled down the drain, replaced by the scent of melons while the water caressed my body like a summer rain. I pulled off my ponytail holder, letting the water run down my face while washing my hair. The next time Brian smelled me, I wanted it to be something soft and sweet, not animalistic. Hold on, why did it matter how I smelled? Irritated by the thought, I scrubbed a little harder. My thoughts went back to Friday night. Brian smelled nice at the club. His rough, callused palm felt nice too. No wonder. He did more than strum a guitar all day. I admired that. Getting out of the shower, I toweled off. Even though Brian was five times sweatier than when we’d met, it somehow made him more attractive. When I realized it was him standing at the truck, I assumed he would demand to know why I avoided his invitation. Instead, he’d been cordial, making the surprise easier on both of us. He was definitely about his business. Oiled up, smelling good, my damp hair in a bun, and wearing a pair of cotton shorts and tank top, I headed back down to the kitchen. The lasagna should be nearing completion and so should Brian. The buzzing sound of yard equipment drew my attention to the bay window. Somehow, they’d gotten over the locked gate. Oops, I’d forgotten to take the chain off before hopping in the shower. He was resourceful too. Brian stood with his weed whacker, swinging it in a controlled arch along the fence. My eyes widened; the man was shirtless. The man had an incredibly strong looking back. His shorts hung loosely from his hips, exposing the top of his underwear from the weight of the sweat-stained shirt stuffed under his belt. Hmm, boxers or briefs? Sweat ran in heavy rivets down his shoulder blades, trickling to the already damp shorts. None of that compared to the way he looked when he turned around to speak to one of the guys working with him. His long torso, free of body fat, sported a light sprinkling of blond hair between his pecs. His abdomen showed every cut of muscle I’d seen in high school biology textbooks. His abs were tight, his belly button nearly nonexistent. Brian’s bronzed skin reminded me of a Greek statue, a testament of many hours spent working outside. His backward baseball cap hid the thick blond curls I’d seen at the club. The damp ringlets hung below its rim, accentuating his square facial structure and the shape of his nose. His blue eyes seemed to glow from deep within his skin. Brian was unbelievably sexy. One of the younger guys stepped into my line of sight, blocking my continued admiration of his anatomy. I bit my lip in irritation until Brian extended an arm. My eyes widened at the sight of tattoos over well-defined muscle. Intricate dark rings banded both biceps. How did I miss that? Oh yeah, his abs had distracted me. Curious, I stepped closer to the blinds, parting them. Damn, I couldn’t see the entire design. What was it? At that moment, Brian faced the window. He remained expressionless for a moment before he squinted, then smiled. Busted. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 3 ****FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME!**** Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now! Amazon Nook Kobo Google Play iBook Smashwords Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

Second Chances and New Impressions...

When Brian first spoke to Ebony, it was in the club. Dark corners, colorful strobe lights, and deafening music can make it hard to really ‘meet’ someone. Everyone looks different in natural light... Excerpt: Ebony Her attention appeared to be on something in her purse as she walked my way, so she hadn’t seen me yet. She was not dressed as she was Saturday night. Her hair wasn’t flowing over her shoulders, tempting my fingers to get lost in its waves. Her legs were not bare, nor did she wear a skin tight, short dress, showing off shapely calf muscles, as she had the other evening. Instead, she wore a baggy shirt over pants with some kind of printed design, something like standard medical wear. She wore her hair in a ponytail, and her feet were in tennis shoes. She struggled to balance an armful of books of various sizes and a book bag over her shoulder. Ebony was still sexy as hell. “I’m glad you haven’t got started yet. My roommate called me at the last minute and told me you were coming. I don’t have any cash on me. Do you take checks or−?” Her voice faltered when she saw me. “Brian? What are you doing here?” I caught a hint of fire in her eyes and something else. Maybe guilt for not meeting me in VIP? “I’m here to cut your grass.” I screwed the top back on the gas can, fighting the urge to laugh at the irony of the situation. Play it cool. I was not about to let her know how disappointed I’d been sitting alone. What happened a few nights ago had nothing to do with the money she was about to put in my pocket. “I thought you were a musician.” I pulled goggles and gloves out of the driver’s side door pocket. “I am, but it doesn’t pay the bills just yet. This is my day job.” Ebony’s eyes traveled to the truck and my cousins before settling back on me. “This is my business,” I added, watching her thin eyebrows arch. Since I hadn’t questioned her about the VIP incident, she seemed to relax. The sound of a lawnmower cranking up broke the awkward silence. “Well, I’ll get out of your way.” She backed away from the truck and headed for her house. It dawned on me I did not answer her question regarding the form of payment. At least it would give me something to talk about when we were done. Saturday night, Ebony disappeared like Cinderella, without leaving a hint of a glass slipper. Now, barely two days later, I found where she lived. What were the chances? This was fate. I took the opportunity to appreciate every inch of her hidden under baggy clothes. The image of her in the black form-fitting dress revealing every curvy inch of her body had haunted my dreams. Outside the club, in natural light, Ebony did not disappoint. Her almond shaped eyes were a rich shade of brown, dark and mysterious. She wore no makeup on her caramel skin, and her lips were naked, with no hint of gloss. I chuckled when she finally got her front door unlocked. It appeared she’d run into some trouble with her key. Flustered perhaps? I hoped so. With a little luck, I just might have a chance to get her to talk to me about more than grass. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 2 ****FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME!**** Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now! Amazon Nook Kobo Google Play iBook Smashwords Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

It's You Again...

There’s a lot more to Brian Young than his good looks and a guitar. Excerpt: Brian From time to time, I missed home and my four obnoxious sisters. There were plenty of good times shared in my childhood home; birthdays, holidays, and just flat out fun. My father made sure that as the only boy in a household full of women, we spent a lot of time together. My mom and sisters taught me how to treat a woman while my dad taught me how to be a man. Work hard, and never, ever take no for an answer. Words I lived by on a daily basis. We’d reached the front of the subdivision when my cell phone rang. I jotted down notes before snapping the phone shut. “It looks like we’ve got one more job.” Groans erupted from my passengers. “Hey, you want to get paid, right?” I glanced over my shoulder while punching the address into my GPS. “This is how it’s done. You guys want money for dates; I need money for my girl, too.” “What girl?” Peter blurted. Dylan cackled from the back seat. “I have a girl. Unlike you guys, my girl isn’t high maintenance. She loves it when I hold her, and it doesn’t take much for me to make her sing.” I grinned so hard my face felt like it would split in two. Dylan pretended to puke. “Dude, you seriously need to find a girlfriend. I can’t stand listening to you talk about your guitar like it’s a real woman,” Peter said. “Yeah, man, you need help,” Dylan chimed in. “No, what I need is a new guitar. That will take my playing to a whole new level.” Peter snickered. “Maybe, but your love life is gonna suck.” I smirked, ignoring the ribbing. These young guys just didn’t understand. There was more to life than chasing after women. Twenty minutes later, we arrived at the new customer’s address. There were no cars in the driveway. According to the woman who called, her roommate was on her way and would be responsible for payment. The guys waited in the truck while I surveyed the property, walking the length of the lawn, tossing small rocks to the yard’s edge. The last thing I needed was to pay for a customer’s broken windshield caused by a rock thrown by the lawnmower. The two-story house had a decent sized yard. There were a few large shade trees in the front. A quick assessment showed the roots shouldn’t get in the way of the lawnmower blades. My height allowed me to peer over the high, wooden gate of the backyard. It was less than half the size of the front. We’d be able to knock it out in no time. Peter and Dylan were out of the truck when I returned, so we went over the game plan. We’d just wrapped up when a car pulled into the driveway. I exhaled deeply before turning back to fill the weed whacker with gasoline. Our drive would not be a waste of time. I heard the slam of a car door, followed by the opening of another. Light footsteps crunched on loose gravel in the driveway as my customer approached. I turned to introduce myself in full customer-service mode. I paused, thankful my customer’s attention focused elsewhere, and quickly shut my mouth. It was Ebony, the woman from the club. ##### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 2 ****FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME!**** Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now!
Amazon Nook Kobo Google Play iBook Smashwords Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

The Day Job...

Layers…there’s more to Brian than just his good looks and a guitar... Excerpt: Brian “Hey, Brian, we’re done over here. Is there anything else?” My cousin, Dylan, waved for my attention. I cut off the weed whacker to appraise Dylan and Peter’s work, inhaling the smell of freshly cut grass. They did a good job clearing the yard of all the clippings. The decision to hire my young cousins for the summer paid off. Letting them handle the grunt work left me to handle the finer details, like trimming the edges of my clients’ professionally landscaped flowerbeds. I loved to work, but after spending the weekend playing late night gigs with my band, sleeping in on Monday would have been my preference, except my bills made it impossible. Besides, laziness of any kind was not in my nature. “No, we’re done. Take the bags to the curb.” I wiped the back of my gloved hand over my brow to keep the sweat dripping down from stinging my eyes. Dylan nodded before passing the message to his brother. I removed the weed whacker’s carrying strap from around my neck, placed it in the bed of the truck, and then reached into the semi-melted ice in the cooler to retrieve a bottle of Gatorade. The liquid saturated my parched mouth. “Heads up.” I tossed them both a bottle. They murmured their thanks before leaning against the tailgate. “Man it’s hot,” Peter said. “How many yards have we done today?” Dylan laughed. “This is the fifth one, bro.” Peter turned to me for confirmation. I nodded and threw my empty bottle into the truck bed, adding to last week’s collection of bottles to be recycled. “Man, how did I forget that?” Peter mumbled. “Because your mind is still stuck three jobs ago,” Dylan teased. Peter continued to have a look of awe on his face. I chuckled. If he got this flustered at the sight of three grown women lounging topless poolside, he was going to be dumbstruck when attending his first frat party in college. I remembered my time spent in college. Somehow, I managed to discover my independence without screwing up too much along the way. Hot women always found their way into my dorm room once they learned I was in a band. A year after joining Diverse Nation, I got over the hype and focused on my craft instead. Being a member taught me discipline and kept me grounded with my eyes on the prize when it came to my career. Music was my life. Cutting grass made it possible to pay the bills until my career took off. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 2 Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now! Amazon Nook Kobo Google Play iBook Smashwords Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

The Invitation...

The man you least expects wants to get to know you. Do you walk away or do you stay? What would you do? Excerpt: Ebony Brian nodded. “Sorry. I want to continue this discussion, but they need me back on stage. Why don’t you meet me in VIP when I’m done? It’s a little less crowded. Plus it’s away from the speakers, so you can hear yourself think.” As if to prove his point, a waitress caring a large tray full of empty cups bumped into his elbow. He managed to hold his beer without spilling a drop. “Tell security the Bass Man sent you. You’ll get in with no problem.” “The Bass Man?” “Yeah, I play bass guitar. You’d be surprised how many women try to get in there.” He nodded to the roped off corner of the room with oversized plush sofas under focused track lights. A few women were already lounging in the area. A man the size of Chewbacca and thankfully, a lot less hairy and dressed in black, stood, his arms crossed while wearing dark shades. He mean mugged the crowd, discouraging them from walking his way. My eyes must have bulged, because Brian chuckled. His laugh was as deep as his voice. “He won’t bite,” he said with a wickedly charming grin. “’Til then, Ebony.” He toasted me with his bottle, drained the remnants of his beer before disappearing into the crowd, and then reappeared on the stage. “Who was he?” Yasmine sat on the barstool Brian had left empty. Well, well, my roommates found their way back. “As if you didn’t know.” “Uh, no,” Kaitlyn replied in her country twang. I eyed them suspiciously. “A guy from the band.” “Really?” Kaitlyn stood on tiptoes to peer over the crowd. “He’s hot.” I couldn’t disagree. “Did you get his number?” Yasmine asked when she finished her own study of his anatomy. “No, but I got an invite to VIP.” Two sets of eyebrows rose. “So, are you going?” Yasmine studied me, no doubt wondering if tonight’s mission had been a success. I stared at the stage as the music began to play, watching Brian in action. He looked in my direction and smiled. “I haven’t decided yet.” #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 1 Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy now! Amazon Nook Google Play Books iBook Smashwords Kobo Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

Determination is Sexy

Nothing is as sexy as a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to let you know. Excerpt: Ebony: “Are you color blind?” “No.” “The lights in here are low, but you can’t say you didn’t notice. I’m black, that doesn’t bother you?” A deep line creased Brian’s brow. “Why should it?” He appraised me for a moment. “Does it bother you?” “No,” I said a little too forcefully. I’d left myself open for that remark. “So what’s your point?” He angled himself to look directly in my eyes. I assessed him again. His cerulean eyes were sharp, studying me as much as I studied him. Sun-bleached hair set off his bronzed skin, a clear sign of time spent surfing, no doubt. Long legs led to a narrow waist and broad shoulders. I could only imagine what he would look like naked. Wait, why did I think that way? “You’re not my type, and I’m not yours.” I put my cup to my lips and gulped, forgetting about the extra shot of tequila, I nearly choked. Brian angled his head, apparently musing over my statement. “You have no idea what my type is.” “What about her?” I nodded at the brunette who sat behind me. She’d gone quiet the moment Brian came to the bar. I risked a glance over my shoulder and saw her lips were in a tight line as she glared at me. She didn’t bother to look away. If looks could kill, the coroner would have picked me up off the floor a long time ago. Fortunately, the music was too loud for her to hear our conversation. When I turned back, Brian’s stare continued to be intense. The room felt as if it had shrunk to the size of a shoebox. “If I wanted her, I wouldn’t be talking to you.” Disbelief had me laughing. Of all the brothers in the club, none approached me. Yet, this man spied me from the stage and made his way over. I had to admit, he was bold. “I want to get to know you. We could−” Annoyance flashed on his face when he acknowledged the hand on his shoulder. I scoffed, nearly spitting out my drink. The drummer, the object of my suggestive dancing−and oh, my God, that body−stood next to Brian. He didn’t give me the time of day. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 1 Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy Now!
Amazon Nook Google Play Books iBook Smashwords Kobo Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare

It's an eBook Giveaway!

Looking for a book to complete your 2018 Goodreads Reading Challenge? Follow this link for a chance to win an eBook copy of A Heart Not Easily Broken (Butterfly Memoir, Book 1)! ENTER GIVEAWAY! Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy Now! Amazon Nook Google Play Books iBook Smashwords Kobo Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #ComingSoon #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered

My Review of Terry McMillan's I Almost Forgot About You

I Almost Forgot About You by Terry McMillan

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was the first book I've read by Terry McMillan. I enjoyed the story! The question the character asked herself and her quest to answer it was enjoyable. I could relate to Georgia's need to find herself and it was an interesting twist on a character's journey to find love. I'm looking forward to reading another one of her books!



View all my reviews

The Proposition:

You’re looking for a summer fling…a man whom you least expects wants to get to know you. He seems to meet all the qualifications except for one. He’s not black. Could he be the one you’re looking for? What do you do? Excerpt: Ebony “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” Two dimples rested on either side of firm lips when he smiled. Wow. The man looked good from the dance floor, but up close, his presence demanded my full attention. He was tall, probably a good six-two to my five-foot-five. His build reminded me of a well-built basketball player. The low lights of the club reflected off damp blond hair with dark undertones. His confident smile cocked to the side, revealing pearly white teeth. The blue shirt he wore complimented the color of his eyes, sparkling like waves of the ocean while hinting at mischief. Baggy shorts and a pair of clean black Converse completed his attire. His attention went to the bartender. “Joe, put her drink on my tab. I’ll have the usual.” The bartender nodded before walking away. The blond focused his gaze back on me, watching before he spoke again. “You’re not going to thank me?” I raised my eyebrows at his comment. “I didn’t ask for you to pay for my drink.” I couldn’t stand a man who expected me to be ecstatic because he bought me a drink. I was capable of doing that myself. Humor flashed in his eyes. “Excuse me for being a gentleman. Unfortunately, it’s too late for you to pay. Guess you’re stuck.” He reached for his beer when the bartender returned, twisted off the cap, and took a huge swig. Stuck? Is that what he thought? Passing the drink over to the brunette, saying it came from him, then ordering my own sounded like a good idea. But at ten dollars a drink, I’d be a fool not to accept a freebie. Instead of saying thanks, I said, “Don’t let this dress fool you. If you expect me to sleep with you because you bought me a drink, forget it.” My focus left him and resumed searching the crowd for my friends. I turned back around in time to catch blue eyes exploring the length of my body. “That was not my intention.” His eyes now focused above the deep cleavage of my dress. “Since we’ve gotten that out of the way, maybe you’ll answer this question.” I narrowed my eyes. “What?” He chuckled. “What’s your name?” He extended a hand. “I’m Brian.” My focus immediately went to his hand. Large palm, slightly calloused, sporting a deep tan, his nails were a little rough, fingers sporting a few cuts, but they were clean. I glanced back up at his face. This white man was hitting on me. I was flattered knowing he watched me dance, but buying me a drink and asking my name? What did he expect to happen next? He waited patiently, his hand suspended in midair. “Ebony.” I accepted his handshake. “Ebony. That’s a beautiful name.” The tingle going up my spine from the way it rolled off his tongue, and the sensation of our connected hands, kept my lips from moving. This was unreal. I didn’t expect any kind of spark from him. I studied his eyes; lust and desire weren’t visible, but there was something else. Something made him hold my hand longer than necessary. I squirmed involuntarily before being the first to turn away. “Meeting like this is not the best way to get to know someone.” He released my hand before leaning down to talk to me without yelling quite as loud. My body tingled at the warm caress of his breath near my ear again. The scent of his musky cologne mixed with sweat from standing under the stage lights was alluring, the heat from his body inviting. #### - From A Heart Not Easily Broken (A Butterfly Memoir), Chapter 1 Ebony Campbell is a smart, sexy career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is Brian Young, a blond-haired, blue-eyed bass player to step up to the challenge. Despite negative reactions, their fling develops into a deep relationship, and Ebony discovers juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and the trust of those she loves. Buy Now! Amazon Nook Google Play Books iBook Smashwords Kobo Be sure to follow my website, newsletter, and connect with me on BookBub in order to stay in the loop for contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks of other works to come! -MJ #MJKane #MJKaneMedia #TheButterflyMemoirs #Writing #Life #Books #Authors #NewReleases #Blogging #Bloggers #Blog #AHeartNotEasilyBroken #Jaded #Shattered #SundayBlogShare