Mary E. Thompson's Blog, page 57

Waiting On You, part one

Jayme walked into the restaurant, trying to act casual. She knew going there again was stupid, but she couldn’t stay away.

The hostess greeted her with a smile of recognition and asked if anyone would be joining her. Jayme told her she would be alone that night and was shown to a quiet table in the back. She picked up her menu and pretended she was there for something to eat when really her stomach felt like it would reject anything she put in it.

It was silly really, being so nervous about a guy. Jayme dealt with guys all day every day, but none inspired the same feelings in her that Kurt did. She couldn’t explain it, but she wanted him. And for the first time in her life she wasn’t going to back down from what she wanted.

She saw him from across the room, coming out of the kitchen. He was wearing his uniform, black dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, black pants, black shoes, and black apron. Jayme understood the outfit, she’d worked enough waitressing jobs in college to know restaurants wanted their servers to blend into the background, especially nice places like that one. But Kurt didn’t blend, he stood out. His olive skin seemed to pick up the nuances in the black he wore and his brilliant green eyes shined, even in the dim lighting. His sandy hair would be ordinary on most men, but on him… it was the cherry on top of a perfect sundae.

Jayme watched as Kurt moved through the tables toward her. He didn’t seem to notice her and he got closer and closer to her. She wasn’t sure if she was even in his section, but she’d hoped she was. The last time she was in she had requested him for her group and Jayme figured the hostess remembered that.

Kurt stepped up to the table, distracted. He said, “Good evening, my name is Kurt and I’ll be taking care of you tonight. Can I start you off with something to drink?”

He finally looked up at her when he finished speaking and a grin spread over his lips. Jayme’s matched his, equally thrilled that he was pleased to see her and that she’d done the right thing going there.

“Jayme,” he breathed. “I didn’t know you were coming here tonight.” Kurt glanced at the other seat of her table and his eyes flashed back to hers. “Will someone be joining you tonight?”

Jayme shook her head. “No, I’m here alone tonight.” She silently added that she was hoping not to leave alone but thought she should save that tidbit for later.

“I didn’t know when I’d see you again. I’m glad you’re here.”

“You look like you’re having a bad night,” she said.

Kurt glanced behind him toward the kitchen. “The owner is here tonight. He usually doesn’t come in and it’s putting everyone one edge. It he shows up it’s usually because he’s going to change something.”

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Maybe I should come back another night.”

“No, please don’t. It’s nice to see a friendly face out here. Plus, I’ve… I’ve been thinking about you.”

Jayme ducked her head with her blush. She knew they had a connection. The first time she’d been there for dinner he kept looking at her and winked at her. She wanted to leave her number but hadn’t been brave enough. She told her best friend, Beth, about him and Beth insisted they go there for dinner so she could check Kurt out herself. Beth thought Jayme should give him her number that night, but Jayme felt awkward flirting with Beth sitting right there.

“I’ve been thinking about you too,” she whispered.

Kurt smiled at her and reached his hand toward her face. She closed her eyes and leaned into him, feeling his hand on her skin for the first time. His palm was warm and soft and made her body feel the same way. Heat circled her body, like it didn’t know where to settle, and she knew she’d made the right choice going to see him.

“I’m sorry, but I’ve got to get your order and work. I’d love to sit and talk to you, but I just can’t right now.”

“I know. Um, what time do you get off work tonight?”

Kurt smiled again and said, “Nine.”

Jayme nodded and said okay. Kurt repeated the word and they both knew their first date was set.

Jayme ordered her dinner and a glass of wine, enjoying watching Kurt work for a while. The night seemed to be dragging on, but at least she was in the same room as him instead of wondering if he was thinking of her. Every time he was close enough he would wink at her or smile at her. He was just as excited about their date as she was.

When nine o’clock finally rolled around Jayme paid her bill and left him a big tip. She smiled as she walked out the front of the restaurant and headed toward her car.

The evening was still warm, the cold not yet hitting even though they were halfway through September. Since Kurt hadn’t said where they would meet she leaned against her car in the well-lit parking lot knowing he would be able to see her.

The door pushed open and the noise from the restaurant spilled out into the night, drawing Jayme’s eyes. Kurt was standing there, looking around, as he shrugged into a black leather jacket. His eyes finally found her and he started toward Jayme with a smile.

When he reached her he grabbed her hand and held it loosely in his. They both stared at their linked fingers before bringing their eyes up to each other. “Why did you come in tonight?”

Jayme shrugged. “I wanted to see you. I know we don’t know each other, but I…”

“Feel like I do,” Kurt supplied for her. Jayme nodded with her shrug. “It’s crazy, isn’t it?”

“I never do crazy,” Jayme told him. She still wasn’t sure what she was doing with a complete stranger in the middle of a parking lot at night, let alone holding his hand and wiling to do whatever he wanted to do.

A slow grin spread over Kurt’s face. “Then let me show you how to be crazy. Let’s go.”

He pulled Jayme across the parking lot to his motorcycle. She hesitated before getting on, and held on tight while Kurt drove off. Toward Crazy.

Kurt and Jayme will be back next week. Where do you think they’re going to end up?

The post Waiting On You, part one appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Driving Her Crazy, part four

Warning: Graphic content included. Mature audiences only!

Catch up with parts one, two, and three…

The drive back to Jessica’s house was quick and, thankfully, accident free. He kept his hand on Jessica’s knee and she twined her fingers through his, holding onto him. Her breathing was quick but he chose to believe it was because of what they were about to do and not because of the near accident.

They walked into her house and Cal wondered if she was going to change her mind. They really didn’t know each other but he knew there was definitely a connection, and he hoped it went deeper than sharing a terrifying experience. He felt it before their date, hell it was why he asked her out to start with.

“Do you want to see my place?” she asked.

Cal thought she was stalling, or maybe trying to figure out how to back out. He wasn’t about to force himself on her so agreed to the tour knowing if she changed her mind about him, he would drop it.

“Well, obviously, this is the living room,” Jessica said as she gestured around the space they were standing in. Cal looked over her pool blue couch, the bright white coffee table covered with magazines, and the sizable TV she had against the wall. The room was comfortable and homey and Cal knew he would enjoy spending time there, if their night turned into anything more.

“The kitchen is over there and the bedrooms are back this way,” Jessica gestured toward the kitchen then started walking to the bedroom. Cal glanced quickly at the kitchen then trailed behind Jessica like a faithful dog.

“And this is my room,” Jessica told him as she walked through her bedroom door. It looked exactly like he thought it would. The bed was a huge king sized four poster bed with fabric draped over the top. The sheets and comforter were coral and navy blue designs that Cal really didn’t care about, but he liked it. A chest sat in the corner of the room and a six drawer dresser stretched over the opposite wall. A door led to the bathroom and Cal could see a messy closet beyond that.

“I like your room. It’s like you in a bedroom.”

Jessica smiled at his compliment and said, “I hope that’s a good thing.”

Cal grinned back at her and reach out to pull her against him, “It’s definitely a good thing.”

She willingly went into his arms, angling her head back as she leaned toward him for a kiss. It was as electrifying as their first kiss and got him going instantly. Cal’s hands went to Jessica’s hips, pulling her body tight against his. Her soft body pressed into his erection and made him want her even more.

“Jesus, it’s not supposed to feel this good,” she whispered against his lips.

“What’s not?” he asked, dipping his tongue into the hollow of her neck.

“Any of this. We just met, yet you kiss me like you’ve been doing it forever.”

“You’re an inspiring woman,” Cal whispered against her throat, making her whole body tremble.

“I wonder what else I can inspire you to do,” she teased.

They made quick work of their clothes and before long stood in her room naked. “Dear God, you’re stunning,” Cal said when he got his first look at her body.

He stood while her eyes roamed his body, pausing on his erection to lick her lips, then met his eyes. “Right back at ya.”

Their bodies smashed together in their frenzied need for contact. Something inside Cal clicked into place as he felt Jessica’s body against his. He kept his hands on her lower back at first, concentrating on their kiss, but they drifted on their own over her body. He cupped her breasts and spun her nipples in his fingers, making her gasp. Her nails dug into his shoulders, raking down his back, as she responded to his touch.

They moved toward the bed and broke apart to climb on. Jessica laid on her back, spread out before him, and Cal knew he’d never seen anyone so beautiful in his life. He trailed his fingers from her toes up her legs, across her hips and stomach, dancing over her breasts, and finally into her hair. He covered her with his body, sealing their passion with a kiss.

Jessica arched into him and he throbbed with the need to feel her, to taste her, to make love to her. Cal retraced his movements back down her body, settling himself between her legs. His tongue swiped over her before she had a chance to argue and she came off the bed, nearly exploding at the first touch. Cal was relentless, desperate to feel her, and used his fingers and his mouth to draw her to the edge of sanity then shove her over.

She came loudly, screaming his name and nearly throwing him from the bed with the force of her hips against him. He held tight and kissed her inner thighs as she her breathing returned to normal.

“You taste amazing,” he said when he kissed her again.

“Let’s see how I feel,” she quipped, holding up a condom for Cal.

He quickly rolled it on, with a little help from Jessica, and positioned himself at her entrance. Her body was wet and ready for him, letting him slid inside without much resistance. He felt her heat wrap around him and groaned at the feel of her body sheathing him.

“You feel even better than you taste,” he groaned.

“I need to feel all of you, please,” she begged. Cal wondered how she knew he wasn’t all the way in, but didn’t really care. He thrust the rest of the way into her, their bodies colliding as Jessica moaned her approval.

Cal stilled inside her, enjoying the feel of her body, how perfectly he fit inside her. When he moved, Jessica moved with him, her hips rising to meet his and her body clenching tightly around him. He knew she was as close as he was and increased his pace to match what she needed.

“Oh God,” was all she said before she clutched him tightly, biting his shoulder and exploding underneath him. He watched her for a few seconds before his own orgasm claimed him. He bellowed her name and slammed his body against hers again, draining all he had within him.

Cal collapsed next to Jessica and pulled her against him. They were both breathing heavily, minds racing and hearts pounding. Cal didn’t know how to tell Jessica that was the best sex of his life. He’d never had a woman respond to him so well or felt so connected to someone. He could fall for her in a heartbeat and thought he already was. The idea scared and invigorated him at the same time.

Jessica finally looked up at Cal, her eyes shining as she smiled. “Do you believe in love at first sight?” she asked.

He looked at her and smiled, “I do now, baby. I do now.”

Jessica smiled and cuddled against him. “Me too,” she whispered.

The post Driving Her Crazy, part four appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Driving Her Crazy, part three

Catch up with part one and part two first…

Jessica was nervous all week about their date. She hoped she made the right choice by agreeing to a date with him, but it’d been a while since she’d gone out with anyone. Especially a guy she thought she could really like.

Cal didn’t give any indication where they would go so Jessica played it safe and wore her favorite pair of jeans and a flirty green top that set off her dark hair. When she looked in the mirror she realized the shirt would match Cal’s eyes and smiled to herself as she applied mascara and lipgloss.

He was right on time, which was important to Jessica. She was a little surprised to see he was driving a beat up old Honda instead of a flashy car from the dealership.

“Hi,” Cal said when Jessica walked out of her apartment. “You look beautiful.”

She could tell he was nervous and knew it would be better to help him relax. The devilish side of her wanted to make him squirm but she wasn’t sure how far she could push before he gave up on her and bolted.

“Thanks. So do you. Should we go?”

Cal nodded and opened Jessica’s door for her. One point in his favor, she mentally calculated. Maybe two since he was there and not asking her about why she changed her mind.

Out on the road Jessica asked, “Where are we going?” Jessica hated surprises so she hoped he wasn’t planning some big thing that she was going to be mad about.

“It’s a surprise,” Cal teased and Jessica groaned. “You don’t like surprises?”

“Actually no. Sorry. I guess it’s part of my control freak tendencies, but I hate surprises. It was hard enough not to call you and ask where we were going before you picked me up.”

Cal grinned and Jessica tried to relax. She hoped he confession would prompt him to reveal their destination but it didn’t, and she wasn’t too thrilled about that.

“What if you gave me some hints and I tried to guess?” Jessica tried.

Cal looked over at her, a thoughtful look on his beautiful face. Jessica took a moment to study him, sending up a quick prayer of thanks that he called her and gave her another chance. He was cute and kind and had the potential to be fun to be with. Jessica just hoped her gut was right with this one.

“Twenty questions. That’s all you get.”

“I’ll take it. Is it indoor?”

“No.”

“Okay, outside. Is it an event?”

“Yes.”

Jessica racked her brain for any outdoor events that were going on. She knew there were a few but wasn’t sure he’d take her someplace she thought of offhand. For some reason she told herself he was more creative.

“Am I dressed okay?”

Cal’s eyes travelled her body and she heated under his appreciative glance. “Yes,” he answered, sounding a little uncomfortable. Hmm, that could be a good way to distract him.

“Would it be better it I wore a skirt?”

Cal glanced at her legs, encased in jeans, and hummed his approval. “What was that?” Jessica asked.

“Yes,” he sighed.

“Should we go back to my place and get rid of my jeans?”

Cal forgot all about the road and focused on Jessica. She gave him her best pouty face, batted her eyelashes, and toyed with him. He was hot, and it’d been a while since she’d had someone help relieve the ache between her legs.

The rumble of something under the tires drew Cal’s attention back to the road. He’d been drifting off the road and was inches from hitting the guardrail. Jessica screamed and Cal jerked the wheel to bring the car back onto the road. His quick movement sent the car into the lane next to them and he nearly hit another car. He jerked the wheel again and sent the car flying back toward the guardrail.

With Jessica still screaming, Cal finally managed to get the car to go straight. She wasn’t even sure how he did it, but he avoided hitting everything. She felt the car slowing down and Cal drifted back to the side of the road again. Tension crept up her spine and she fought the urge to scream again.

When Cal got the car safely to the side of the road and stopped, he unclipped his seat belt and pulled Jessica into his arms. “Jesus, I’m sorry. Are you okay?”

Jessica clung to his as if her life were hanging in the balance, knowing only moments ago it was. She was trembling and terrified. Maybe the date was a bad idea.

“I don’t know. I… shit, that was scary.”

“I know. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. You were just so damn sexy and I couldn’t stop looking at you. Are you okay? Would you rather I take you home? And not because I’m trying to get you out of those jeans.”

Jessica laughed nervously, letting herself slide back into their playful banter. “Are you saying you don’t want to get me out of my jeans?”

Cal huffed out a laugh and tightened his grip on her. “Oh, I definitely want you out of those jeans.”

He nuzzled against her ear and nibbled, sending sparks of awareness straight through her body. She moaned softly, turned on as much by his words as his actions. His hand slid down to her hip and squeezed, telling her he was just as affected.

“Kiss me,” she whispered in his ear.

Cal didn’t take him time obliging her. His lips were on hers as she finished speaking. Hot and wet and firm. Her lips were still parted from her words and Cal took advantage, sliding his tongue deep into her mouth.

Jessica clutched him, returning every swipe of his tongue with one of her own. His hand tangled in her hair, angling her head so he could kiss her deeper. The deep rumble of his approval made her whole body tremble and she held him tighter.

His kiss was nothing like Jessica had ever felt. It was as though he’d been kissing her his whole life, knowing just how much pressure to use so their teeth didn’t hit, his tongue dancing in her mouth as easily as her own did, his hands touching her body in all the right places for a first kiss.

Shockingly, Jessica wanted more. She wanted to lay her seat back and feel him on top of her. She wanted to take him back to her place and see where else on her body he could kiss with such delicious passion. For once, she wanted to throw away all her caution and just live.

“I think we should go back to my place,” she whispered when they came up for air. “All of a sudden these jeans feel too restrictive.”

Cal froze, his lips still against the skin on her neck. His heavy breathing was sending hot air over her skin and making her want him more. “Are you sure?”

“Absolutely. Unless you’re dying to go on our date,” she teased.

“Fuck no, there’s a baseball game almost every night. We can catch another one.”

Jessica smiled at him, she loved baseball and was shocked he was going to take her to a game. “A night not filled with car accidents and too much heat.”

Cal grinned at her then started the car back up and headed back to Jessica’s.

How will their night end? Stay tuned…

The post Driving Her Crazy, part three appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Driving Her Crazy, part two

Check out part one here.

Cal sat quietly as Jessica looked him up and down. Something flashed in her eyes, but he couldn’t identify it before it was gone. She glanced around the dealership before her eyes turned back to his.

And he saw raw fury.

‘Shit,’ flipped through his head and before he could backtrack his words, she was attacking him.

“I don’t need to be taken care of. I’m an adult, a woman who has managed to take care of myself for years. I’m not some weak little child who needs someone to do everything for her. And I resent the implication.”

Cal leaned back in his seat, putting as much space between them as possible. “I wasn’t trying to say you couldn’t take care of yourself. I just… I, uh-”

“You were trying to be the macho guy in this situation. If you really think you’re going to pull one over on me you’ve got another thing coming. I don’t fall for pick up lines, and while I’m sure that’s worked for you plenty over the years, it’s not going to work on me.”

Cal blew out a frustrated breath and ran a hand through his brown hair. He could tell there was more than Jessica was telling him, a reason she felt the need to defend herself so harshly, but he let it go. Once she left he knew he’d never see her again.

Cal finished the paperwork and had Jessica sign everything. He insisted on the low price he’d offered her and handed over the keys to a smiling Jessica. And stood back as she drove off.

A week later Cal eyed his phone. He’d been dreading the phone call he had to make, but he knew he couldn’t put it off any longer. It was almost time for him to go home and this was a part of his job, something his boss insisted he do before he could collect the commission from the sale of any vehicle.

Just this call was one he knew wouldn’t go well.

Cal took a deep breath and punched in the numbers on his desk phone. He forced a smile to his lips and glanced down at the scripted message he planned to leave on Jessica’s voicemail asking how the car was and instructing her to call if she needed anything. He would put a coupon book in the mail the next day to help her out with some of the recommended services.

“Hello?” came through the phone.

Cal sucked in a breath. He wasn’t prepared to speak to her, but he couldn’t just hang up.

“Hello?” she said again after his hesitation.

“Hi, is this Jessica?”

“Yes,” she said, annoyed.

“Hi Jessica, this is Cal from the dealership. I just wanted to call and check how your new car is doing. Is everything going well?”

She paused, long enough that Cal started to wonder if she’d hung up on him. He glanced at his screen and saw the seconds ticking past, indicating she was still there, even though she wasn’t speaking.

“I’m sorry I was such a bitch to you. You didn’t deserve it. Especially after you were so nice to me.”

Cal didn’t know whether to laugh or just shake his head. He’d spent the last week wondering what she tasted like. He’d even dreamt of her, something he rarely did.

“I was out of line. It’s fine. How’s the car?” Cal tried to steer their conversation back to where it belonged, away from his need for her.

“You were really nice to be. I was the one who was out of line. And I’m sorry. I was wondering if I could make it up to you. Maybe go out on that date you asked about?”

It was Cal’s turn to pause. He froze, wondering if she was screwing with him or if he heard her right. He knew they would have a good time together and he wanted to see her again, but wasn’t sure if it was a good idea.

“Are you still there?” Jessica asked.

“Yeah, I’m just… shocked I guess. You made it pretty clear how you felt when I met you. I’m trying to understand why you changed your mind.”

Jessica huffed out a breath. “I think I’m going to really like you. You’re not what I expected. You were a lot nicer than I was prepared to handle and it ended up turning me into a bitch. Again, I’m sorry. Can we start over?”

A slow grin spread over Cal’s face. He knew he’d do anything for her, even though he really didn’t know her. “Of course we can start over. And if you’re sure, I’d love to take you out. How about Friday?”

“Sounds perfect. Oh, and the car is great. I’ll make sure to let you know if that changes.”

“Great. I’ll be sending you out a book with discounts for service, in case you decide to use us for your service. It’s definitely been a pleasure doing business with you.”

He heard the faint sound of a giggle and smiled to himself. “Thank you, Cal. And I’ll see you Friday. You have my address.”

“See you then,” Cal said and hung up with a smile. He grinned at the empty space in his cubicle and shook his head. He had no idea how he’d managed to get so lucky, but he was damn glad he did.

Now, to plan the perfect date…

See you next week! Where should Cal take Jessica?

The post Driving Her Crazy, part two appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Driving Her Crazy, part one

Jessica was prepared. She’d done her research, she’d read all the articles, she knew the right things to say. Her dad had taught her well and she was finally ready to buy her first car on her own.

It was something every person did eventually, and after Jessica’s beloved 1989 Mustang finally died, she knew she had to bite the bullet and go out and buy a new car.

She gathered her paperwork and headed out, ready to face the sleazy salesmen. She knew they wouldn’t take her seriously just because she’s a woman, but she was ready for them. As a VP of Marketing at a major retailer, Jessica knew how to handle not only men in general, but men that thought they were smarter than the women in the room.

At the dealership Jessica headed right for the car she wanted. She knew one of the salesmen would come out to her and try to get her to buy up. She’d done her research though and knew exactly what she should pay and what they would attempt to talk her into.

Jessica circled the vehicle and smiled to herself when she saw someone walking out of the dealership and head straight toward her. He walked toward her with a confidence she knew he would have. She turned away from him, smiling to herself as he approached. She was ready for whatever he threw at her.

“Excuse me, can I help you?” he asked.

He was close. Close enough that he didn’t have to shout. With a serious look on her face, Jessica turned around and looked up into the brightest green eyes she’d ever seen. Instead of condescending, he looked open and honest. Or maybe it was just that he was the most beautiful man she’d ever seen.

The sun was behind him and he almost seemed to glow, like he was an angel sent down to her. She knew it was nuts and she shook her head to clear the fuzzy thoughts. She blinked a few times then focused on him again. He was just as gorgeous as she’d initially thought with rich brown hair, broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and endless legs. She had to look up at him to see into his sparkling blue eyes, and from her 5’9″ height, that was impressive. She figured he was about 6’3″ of solid muscle and it left her mouth watering at the sight.

“Uh, are you okay?” he asked, reaching out to her. She watched as his hand stretched toward her. Softly, his fingers touched her arm and she felt a spark light up her entire body, alerting her nipples and her core that something was happening that they needed to pay attention to.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Jessica finally said, shaking her head. “I’m, uh, interested in this car.”

“Okay, great, let me go get the keys and we can take it out for a drive. I need to get a copy of your license.”

Jessica handed it over and watched as he walked away, wondering why he didn’t give his name. As he jogged back to her Jessica let her eyes roam his body, finding her own body heat as his eyes travelled over her. A smile teased his lips and she clamped down on her lip to keep from smiling back at him.

“By the way, I’m Cal. I’ll take you out. If you’re interested.”

Jessica didn’t miss the open ended statement. She didn’t think he was just talking about the car, and judging by the look on his face, he hoped she wasn’t thinking about that. “I’m definitely interested,” Jessica said softly, reaching for the keys.

Their fingers brushed and Jessica sucked in a breath. Her eyes met Cal’s and she saw his widen with desire. She felt the same spark. Almost like a shock, but different, something that coursed through her body and settled low in her belly, drawing heat between her legs.

Cal stepped over to the driver’s door and opened it for her, closing it once she was securely inside. He jogged around to the passenger side as Jessica started up the car. She pulled out of the lot and headed toward the interstate, ready to test out the handling of the car at higher speeds.

They drove in silence for ten minutes or so, Jessica not knowing what to say to the Adonis next to her. She wanted to come across as smart and confident but one look at him and she felt like a bumbling fool all over again. She struggled to come up with a coherent thought with him so close, his spicy scent wrapping around her and hypnotizing her. She wanted to pull over and christen the car, but knew it would be a mistake. The last time she’d taken a chance on a guy she’d regretted it. He would have to make a move if he was interested.

“Take the next exit,” Cal said, pointing to the exit sign coming up. “We can turn around and head back to the dealership.”

As Jessica pulled into the parking lot she knew he wasn’t going to ask her out. The serious work of negotiating on a price was about to happen and once he saw how stubborn she was, Jessica knew it would be over before it began.

She followed Cal to his office and sat in the chair across from him, waiting as he pulled up the details on the car. Jessica knew she was as prepared as he was about the car, and that she could handle whatever he threw at her. He printed out a sheet of paper and studied it before spinning it around to face her.

“Okay, here’s the list price. This is what we can do. It’s a decent price, but here’s the thing… This car has been sitting on the lot for a while. They’re pretty desperate to move it. It’s in great shape and really could bring in a much higher price, but this is the lowest I’m authorized to sell it for. What were you thinking?”

Jessica stared at him, trying to figure out what his game was. She was prepared to haggle with him until he walked away with his balls shriveled up inside. Instead he was offering her a price way lower than she thought she’d get. What was the deal?

“Listen,” Cal said, his voice low, “I can’t sit here and screw you over. You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen and I want to make sure you get a good deal. This is a good deal. I know this car because I’ve thought about buying it myself. I know this is crazy, but I really want to take care of you, and getting you a good car is all I can do right now.”

“Why do you want to take care of me?”

“Have you ever met someone that you feel like you’ve known forever? It sounds like a Disney movie, but it’s true. I want to know all of you, and while I hate making you pay anything for this car, I can’t just give it to you, but I can sell it cheap. Hopefully giving you a really good deal will be enough to convince you to go out with me. What do you say?”

 

Will Jessica say yes? 

The post Driving Her Crazy, part one appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Flying High, part three

Catch up on part one and part two of Flying High first. 

“I don’t know what you mean,” Kelly stammered.

Josh’s gaze was hard now, not the kind man who’d just made love to her. He was pissed off, even though he knew he didn’t really have any right to be. Sex with Kelly was the best he’d ever had, something that made him want to go back for more again and again, but he couldn’t. Not if she was lying to him.

“Is your name even Kelly? I know you’re not a history teacher. So who are you?”

“How do you know that?”

“I’m trained to detect when people are lying. You’ve been lying to me this whole time,” Josh nearly yelled at her. He yanked his clothes back on, needing the barrier between them. Kelly remained on the bed, naked with her skin still flushed from their love making. Josh wanted nothing more than to climb back over her and give her a repeat performance, but he needed the truth.

“What kind of writer is trained in detecting liars?” Kelly asked quietly, a piercing gaze directed at Josh. “Unless you’ve been lying too.”

Josh clenched his fists. He was pissed. More than he’d been in a long time. He wanted to punch something, but would never consider hitting a woman. He ached for a punching bag, but knew he’d just have to get over the anger on his own. He’d had enough practice.

“You first,” Josh said through clenched teeth.

Kelly seemed to be considering his request, like she was going to answer him. He thought for sure he’d lost her. Kelly slid from the bed and picked up her discarded clothing. She slowly redressed, her back to Josh as though she didn’t want him to see her. With his current attitude, he didn’t really blame her, although it did hurt.

When she was completely covered she sat back down on the bed and tucked her feet underneath her. All of a sudden she looked small and scared. Josh wanted to wrap his arms around her and tell her she didn’t have to tell him anything, but he needed to hear what she was hiding from him.

“I’m a pilot. Or at least I was. About a year ago I was flying one of my first solo flights. I’d bought my own plane and was going out for a day trip, taking my parents to visit my brother’s family. Something happened, I’m still not even sure what it was, and the plane started to drop. It was like everything just gave out at the same time and the plane fell like a rock from the sky.”

Kelly took a deep breath and looked past him out the window to the Gulf of Mexico outside. Josh couldn’t breathe, he just waited.

“I tried everything to get it going again, but nothing worked. The back end of the plane hit the ground first and took most of the impact. We all ended up trapped and since we were a bit out of the way, it took a while for emergency crews to get to us. My mom died while we were waiting for the crews to get there and my dad died a while later. I had a broken leg and a few cracked ribs, but otherwise I was fine. I’m even cleared to fly again, but today was the first day I’ve gotten on a plane since the accident.”

Kelly finally slid her gaze to Josh and he saw her tears glistening against her cheeks.

“The investigation said I wasn’t to blame, but I was. I killed my parents. I’ve been living off whatever I could find to do over the last year. I sold my house and have been staying with friends or sleeping in my car. We sold my parents’ house but I gave all the money to my brother. He and I haven’t spoken. My parents had always told me they wanted their ashes scattered here, which is why I’m in Florida. The box over there has their ashes and one night I planned to go out to the beach and set them free.”

“Why did you tell me you were a history teacher?” Josh finally managed to ask. He couldn’t imagine the pain she was going through and he knew he wanted to be there for her, but he had to understand.

“The last job I took was substitute teaching for a history teacher. It wasn’t a total lie.”

Josh rubbed his chin, digesting everything Kelly told him. He believed her. He could see the pain in her eyes and hear it in her voice. She was still hurting, and probably felt alone. He wanted to help her, bring back the vibrant loving woman who’d just moments before moaned his name as she came. He wanted to be the man who made her feel that way every day for the rest of her life.

Josh moved toward her and she jumped up off the bed. She crossed the room deliberately and started picking up her bags. “Where… Where are you going?”

“I’m leaving. Sorry I put so much on you. I haven’t had anyone to talk to in a while. Thanks for the ride out here.”

Panic gripped Josh’s throat as her words sunk in. She was going to leave him? Just like that? After her admission. “Please don’t go.”

“You pity me. You feel bad for me. I’m not up for charity. I appreciate the ride, and the amazing sex, but I’m not here for you to feel bad for me.”

“I feel badly for you. You’ve suffered, more than most could understand. But that doesn’t mean I want you to leave. I feel like I’m losing my mind watching you pick up your stuff. I can’t have you walk out of my life. I’ll never get over losing you.”

“What the hell are you talking about? You don’t even know me.”

“Oh, but I feel like it. I never believed in love at first sight, I knew it was a crock. But I’ve been falling in love with you every second since I saw you this morning. Maybe it won’t work out between us, but I can’t let you walk out and not find out. Please, Kelly, stay.”

Kelly looked at him, as though she were weighing her options. “I don’t know you. I know you lied and you’ve admitted it, but you haven’t told me who you really are.”

“I’ll tell you, if you stay. Please, Kelly, give us a chance. Stay.”

Josh poured every emotion he possessed into his gaze. He wanted her to see how much he desired her, but also how much he wanted to know her, to love her. He was telling the truth when he said he was falling for her. He’d seen too many people regret not saying it to let the moment pass by. He wasn’t going to let her out of his life, and he knew she could see his sincerity in his eyes.

“Okay,” she finally said, setting her things down. “I’ll stay.”

 

I hope you enjoyed Flying High. Next week a whole new short story will begin!

The post Flying High, part three appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Flying High, part two

Warning: this story contains graphic sexual content. 18+ only.

Read part one of Flying High here.

Kelly felt better already. Getting through the flight was the biggest part of her journey. Meeting Josh was definitely not in her plan, but he was a nice diversion from her day. She knew she surprised Josh by agreeing to go with him, but she didn’t have the money for a rental car and she hoped if she could get closer to the beach she would be able to take care of everything. She would fulfill her parents’ last wishes.

Kelly didn’t really believe Josh was a writer, but she didn’t care. He was gorgeous and kind enough to keep her distracted on the flight so she figured she’d let it go that he lied about his job. She had too, after all, so why shouldn’t he?

Josh rested his hand on the small of her back as he guided her out of the airport toward his rental car. The feel of his hand on her skin seared her nerves and sent excitement skittering up and down her spine. It’d been way too long since she’d allowed herself to be comforted by a man and she was willing to let Josh take on the role for now.

Josh loaded her bags into the trunk, Kelly being careful to secure the box where it wouldn’t shift. They climbed in the car and Kelly sat back and enjoyed the sunshine on her face as Josh drove in comfortable silence.

Kelly smelled the salty air before she could see the ocean. Josh was cruising onto Sanibel Island, exactly where Kelly had hoped to go. If she believed in fate or destiny she would think he’d been put in her life for a reason. Instead, she chalked it up to a coincidence. She gave up on fate years ago.

Josh drove over the huge bridge to get out to the secluded island and Kelly relaxed even more, ready to get onto the beach and finish her task. Then she would find a way to start her life over and finally put the past behind her.

“I hope this is okay,” Josh said as they pulled into a hotel parking lot. “I love it out here and always come to Sanibel when I’m in the area.”

“It’s perfect,” Kelly answered, not willing to give him too much information. “I might wander down the beach a bit though and find a more affordable hotel. This one is pretty high end and I don’t think I can afford it.”

“Oh,” Josh said, sounding disappointed. “I had hoped you’d stay with me. I know you don’t know me, but I had hoped we could get to know each other a bit better.”

She looked him over, knowing it was exactly what she wanted also, but didn’t want to expect a free place to stay. She had some shred of her dignity left, even if it wasn’t much. “That would be nice, actually. I don’t want to put you out though.”

“No trouble at all. It’s the least I can do for the prettiest history teacher I’ve ever met. I think I’d have learned a lot better if I’d had a teacher who looked like you.”

She felt herself blush and tucked her chin as she smiled at him. She liked Josh more than she wanted to admit. He wasn’t creepy and obvious like most men. She didn’t feel like he was going to attack her although he’d made it clear he wanted her. If anything was going to happen with them, it would be short lived, but Kelly wanted it more than anything.

They checked into a small suite with a living room and a king sized bed in the bedroom. Josh said he could sleep on the couch, but Kelly told him that wasn’t necessary. In the room together she realized it was the first time they’d been alone, she didn’t count cars since they were surrounded by hundreds of others.

Josh’s gaze heated as he looked at her. Kelly could see how much he wanted her and wasn’t afraid to let him know she was more than willing. Her tongue darted out to lick her lips as Josh stepped closer. Without hesitation his hand slid into her hair and his mouth came down on hers. Her arms wrapped around his neck, holding him close.

Josh’s tongue probed her lips seeking entry and she opened for him. Their tongues glided together in a desperate search for the truth. Both knew the other wasn’t telling the whole truth, but at that moment neither cared. Their kiss heated, scorching Kelly’s skin with the only cooling relief being the liquid pooling between her legs. She wanted him, needed him.

She tried to think of the reason for her trip to Sanibel, but quickly pushed away those thoughts, only allowing herself to think of Josh. He still hadn’t touched her. His one hand remained in her hair and his other dangled at his side.

Desperate to move things forward quickly, Kelly reached for his shirt and tugged it over his head then removed her own. She stood before him, breathing heavily, as his eyes devoured her nearly naked body. Her pink lace bra and jean shorts felt heavy on her skin, but she wanted Josh to show some enthusiasm for what they were doing. Kelly was starting to feel as though she was forcing herself on him even though he’d been the one to come on to her at the airport.

“You’re beautiful,” he finally muttered, almost like a curse, like he was pissed. Confusion coursed through her before Josh leaned back into her to kiss her again. His hand splayed across her back, trying to touch as much of her at once. He used his other hand to cup her ass and lift her onto him. Her legs wrapped around his waist as she settled against him and he moved toward the bed.

No longer shy or hesitant, Josh and Kelly quickly stripped the rest of their clothes off. A condom appeared from somewhere and Josh covered himself, protecting both of them. Without any preamble he slid into her body. Kelly moaned at the intrusion, her body gripping him as each inch pressed further and further into her.

When her body wrapped completely around him Josh settled, holding his place as though giving them each a chance to change their minds. Kelly shifted her hips, trying to get him going. Sex with a stranger was always challenging because he didn’t know her rhythms, but Kelly rarely had trouble having an orgasm during sex so she enjoyed it, even if it didn’t start out well.

Josh took the hint and slowly slid out of her, only to return with a crushing blow that sparked the fire blazing inside her. With each thrust of his hips, Josh brought Kelly closer and closer to that release. She desperately needed to feel her body unwind, to come undone. She hadn’t had a manmade orgasm in too long and she was so close to this one that she knew it would be a doozy.

They moaned together, their bodies slapping in rhythm with their cries. “If you’re going to come, you need to do it now, Kelly. I can’t wait much longer.”

“Oh, God,” she moaned, trying to force the release she needed. Josh reached between them and with one swipe of his fingers she shattered around him, screaming into the darkness of the room. She heard him grunt just seconds after she did then he rolled off her as the aftershocks of her pleasure were still rolling over her.

Josh laid next to her on the bed, looking just as delicious as he’d felt. Kelly wondered how many condoms he had and how many he was willing to use.

“Okay, now this is weird,” Josh said suddenly. “Uh, I guess we got to know each other a bit. Now, if only you would tell me who you really are and what you’re actually doing in Florida I’d think we were getting somewhere.”

Kelly’s heart dropped to the floor and she knew her illusions of a restful trip were disappearing faster than the ashes of her parents would in the surf. If she ever got to the beach.

 

To be continued… 

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Flying High, part one

She caught his eye when he first walked in. Even through the crowded space he could tell she was different. She held her head high and she walked on ahead like she was trying for an air of confidence, something he could tell she didn’t feel.

When Josh got to through the security checkpoint and made it to the gate he was surprised to find her there. She hadn’t noticed him, of course, it was his job to blend in, but he noticed her.

A quick scroll through his phone confirmed she wasn’t a restricted passenger so he passed her uneasiness off as a fear of flying. He’d certainly seen his fair share of people like that since he took the job as air marshall.

The truth was, Josh loved his job. It was pretty basic, fly around and make sure nothing happens that isn’t supposed to. He got to see beautiful places and meet interesting people, and every so often he’d get the chance to share his bed with a woman.

He tried to focus on his job, but his mind kept drifting back to the brown-eyed beauty sitting with her back to the wall. Her eyes darted around, watching out for people who might approach, keeping anyone curious away. Josh couldn’t help himself though. He told himself it was part of his job, to check out anyone who seemed suspicious, but he knew it was more than that.

He wanted to protect her from whatever was bothering her.

He took the seat next to her and watched her eyes grow wide as he turned his smile on her. “Hi, I’m Josh,” he said as he offered his hand.

She looked at it as though she thought his hand would attack her. He wondered if she’d been abused.

“I’m Kelly,” she said finally, but never took his hand.

“What brings you to the airport today Kelly?” he asked, trying to keep her talking. Even with the obvious fear in her voice, Josh loved hearing the sweet sound from her lips, wondering if she would sound so innocent writhing beneath him.

He twitched in his jeans and shifted his weight, angling closer to Kelly, which made her lean away.

“I’m going to see my parents.”

“Do they live in Orlando?” he asked, indicating the destination of their flight.

Kelly looked shocked and blanched as she looked at the screen nearby that read out the details of their flight. If Josh didn’t know better he would think she was on the wrong plane, or maybe hadn’t thought through her plan of whoever she was running from.

“My parents are dead,” Kelly stated matter-of-factly. She didn’t offer an explanation for why she was going to visit them or where she was going which only peaked Josh’s curiosity even more.

“I’m sorry to hear that. Is your husband joining you?”

“I’m not married,” she answered too quickly. Josh wondered if it was a sort spot because she wanted to be or if it was because her husband is who she was running from. Either way, he realized that wasn’t a topic that would get her to open up.

“Neither am I. So what do you do for a living? I’m a writer,” Josh said. Being a writer had become his cover story when one nosy passenger started trying to read his notes one day on a flight. He had to tell them something or risk blowing his cover and figured being a writer was as good a cover story as anything. Plus, it wasn’t like he ran into the same people over and over again.

“I’m a teacher,” she answered, shifting in her seat. His training told him she was lying although he had no idea why anyone would lie about their job. Well, except him.

“What do you teach?”

“Um, history,” she said with a glance around the gate area. He wondered if she was looking for someone or if she was trying to tell him she was done with their conversation.

It didn’t matter. He pushed on, asking her question after question until they boarded the flight. He stood when she did and discovered they were seated next to each other on the flight. Josh grinned at the idea of spending the next three hours talking to Kelly, making her nervous.

For some reason, he loved seeing the anxiety in her eyes when he asked a question she didn’t want to answer, which was pretty much all of them. Josh knew Kelly was opening up to him, a talent he’d developed over years as a police officer. People liked to talk about themselves more than they wanted to listen, but Kelly was the opposite. She didn’t ask him many questions, but when she did he could tell she was intrigued.

As their flight landed in Orlando, Josh felt a wave of disappointment wash over him. He still hadn’t found out where Kelly was going or if he would see her again. All he knew was he wouldn’t be able to get her out of his head.

“Can I give you a ride somewhere?” he asked as they walked up the gangway into the terminal.

“Sure,” she answered, surprising him. He never expected her to take him up on the offer, but he was thrilled that she did. His grin matched hers as they walked through the airport side by side.

Kelly got her suitcase from the baggage claim while Josh went to the counter for his rental car. He didn’t have to fly anywhere for a few days so he had planned to head to the beach, although he didn’t know which one. When Kelly sidled up to him he was glad he didn’t have plans.

“Where are we going?” he asked. He still couldn’t get over how much she’d changed in their flight. No longer was Kelly the quiet and unsteady woman she’d been when they boarded the flight. She’d let her hair down, literally and figuratively, and her long chestnut curls drifted down her back as she smiled at him.

“Wherever you’re going is fine with me,” she said with a grin.

Josh wondered how he’d managed to find a woman so ready for anything when he thought she was so timid. If only he knew who she really was…

 

To be continued…

I hope you’ve enjoyed this little snippet. Kelly and Josh’s story will continue next week. Come back to find out where they’re going, and learn who Kelly really is!

The post Flying High, part one appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Getting Bigger and More Beautiful

My next series, Big & Beautiful, is due out early 2015. I’m really excited about the series and I just couldn’t wait to share another sneak peak with you.

The first book in the series is about Mandy Ryan, an overweight customer service representative that thinks she’ll never find love. Mandy is happy with her life until she meet Xander Carlson who gives her hope for love in her future.

Mandy and Xander have a rough start, but he refuses to give up, and she finds it well worth the struggle.

His gaze felt like ice running over my skin. It brought goosebumps over my exposed skin and made my nipples stand on end. He looked predatory, like he was getting ready to stake his claim on me. Like he was pissed off and possessive because of it.

I’d never had a man look at me like that.

And I liked it.

“What do you want to know? I’ll tell you anything.”

I regarded him cautiously. What people say and what they do can be very different things. I still didn’t know him and had no idea if he would actually answer any questions, but I figured I’d give it a shot.

“How long was your last relationship?”

“Six months,” he said without missing a beat. If he was surprised that’s what I started with, he didn’t indicate it.

“When did it end?”

“Four months ago. And before you ask, I ended things because I realized she wasn’t right for me. She didn’t make me laugh anymore.”

“What’s the most important thing in a relationship?”

“Compatibility,” he answered, looking me straight in the eyes. I tried to see something in there, to see if he thought we were even remotely compatible but I had no clue.

“What constitutes compatibility to you?”

“Well, she has to be someone I can have a conversation with. Someone I can talk to and get along with. I like a woman who is sure of herself and knows who she is, not always looking for a man, or a job or her friends, to define her. I want someone who enjoys some of the same things I do, but is open to new activities.”

“What about sex?”

He paused, his coffee cup an inch from the table. He set it down carefully and met my eyes, muddy green drawing me in and making me forget both where we were and that we’d only just met. “What about sex Mandy?”

My name on his lips was like heaven. I wanted to hear it again, a soft and perfect word that could have been a passionate sound or a dismissive one, but all I heard was passion.

Was he toying with me?

“Is sex important in determining compatibility?”

He took a sip of his coffee, watching me while he considered his next words. I’m sure he thought I was propositioning him, telling him I was ready and willing. Of course he would assume that. The fat girl was desperate so why wouldn’t she be begging for it.

“Sex is very important in determining compatibility. But I also think it’s one of the last things to figure out if it works. The first thing I notice in a woman is her smile. It’s why I wanted to meet you. Your laugh led me to believe you would have a gorgeous smile.”

He was carefully avoiding exactly what I wanted him to tell me. I wanted him to get it out there. Just tell me I was a fat, ugly cow and he’d never want me. That’s all I wanted from him, but he wouldn’t say it.

I guess I had to give him credit for being diplomatic.

“After a smile, what do you notice in a woman. Physically.”

“Physically?” he clarified with a quirk of his eyebrow. “Is this some sort of research project or something? I feel like I’m taking a test.”

No one should look as good as he did with one eyebrow raised. Most people looked silly, but on Xander nothing was silly. It was just downright sexy. He was teasing me, tormenting me into coming right out and asking him the direct question I was trying to avoid.

“Do you like fat girls? Like me? Let’s just get it out there.”

Xander sat back in his seat. All of a sudden the teasing and humor was gone from his face and a quiet seriousness took over his features. He looked menacing, strong. And pissed.

“I wouldn’t say you’re fat, Mandy, but honestly, I’ve never given much thought to the size of the women I date. I look for a woman whose company I enjoy and go from there.”

“Really, so you’ve dated fat women before,” I snarled at him. His answer avoided what I wanted to know and he knew it. He was trying to let me down easy and it was pissing me off. Just tell me the damn truth.

His gaze skirted over me, as if trying to figure out just how big I was. I sat firmly, my jaw set in a hard line to show him I wasn’t going to be some little pushover he could bang and forget. He wasn’t getting one over on me.

“Most of the women I’ve dated have been thin, yes. I would say you’re the biggest one I’ve gone out with.”

I nodded, willing the tears I felt stinging my eyes to stay inside until I walked away. “That’s what I thought. Well, thank you for reminding me of my place in the world.”

I stood up and walked back to my table where my friends sat gawking at me. I grabbed my purse and headed straight for the bathroom, ignoring Xander calling my name and the stares of my friends.

In the bathroom I let a few of the tears fall. It felt good to let them out, to clear the pain I felt. Even though I knew Xander wouldn’t like me, it hurt to hear he’d never date a fat woman. I don’t know why I bothered to go out with him in the first place. It really was just foolish on my part.

After a few minutes, I pulled myself together, splashing cold water on my eyes and reapplying my mascara. I walked out of the bathroom with my head held high and headed straight for my table. It was no big shock to find Xander’s table empty.

I hope you liked the preview about Mandy and Xander. I loved creating their story and I can’t wait for you to read the rest. Make sure you sign up for my newsletter (below) to get all the sneaks and details about the release of Big & Beautiful!

The post Getting Bigger and More Beautiful appeared first on Mary E Thompson.

Never, Ever, Ever Settle

At some point in our lives we are all faced with a choice… Do you settle for what you have (or what is being offered) or do you hold out for something better?

The tricky part is that what you have is a sure thing and something better is not.

A little over a year ago my husband decided to get a new vehicle. We’d been living with only one for about two years because we carpooled to work and our kids were young enough that we didn’t have activities that required us to part ways. It worked for us, but as Princess got closer to kindergarten, we knew we needed a second vehicle.

Hubby did his research and decided he wanted a Subaru Outback. It’s reliable, it’s powerful, and he loves Subaru. We started looking… and looking… and looking. We found nothing. Nothing that fit his desires and our budget.

We had two options, settle for something else or adjust what we were willing to pay.

In the end we did both. We increased our budget but still couldn’t find any Outbacks that worked so hubby started searching for other options. We ended up with a great Ford Escape, but for a year hubby has complained about it because it’s not an Outback, it’s not the right color (silver), the interior isn’t the right color (grey), it doesn’t have certain features he likes, and on and on and on.

If I could go back a year and change our minds, I’m pretty sure I would.

We settled, and while we got a great vehicle, it’s not the right one for hubby.

I got an email from one of my subscribers a few weeks ago. R said she was in a funk and not doing well in the love department. We’ve all been there. We’ve all wondered if the guys out there are ever going to get better or if we’ve dated the decent ones and missed something. Or if there’s not really something better and we’re going to need to choose to be with one of the duds or to be alone.

I was lucky. I met my husband when I was 21. We started dating when I was 22 and we were married when I was 24. It seems so long ago now, but the day I met him, I knew I was going to marry him.

Not everyone will have that feeling, I know, but I do believe there is a point in every relationship where you know it’s going to work out or it’s not. One of my exes told me, ‘Women have sex because they’re in love but men have sex to fall in love.’ I’m pretty sure that conversation was the moment when I knew things wouldn’t work out with him.

Another ex and I broke up all the time. I always figured if we couldn’t ever get it right when we were just dating we’d never figure it out forever.

There were guys I liked more than they liked me, and guys who liked me more than I liked them. There were people I wanted to be able to see myself with but we didn’t have enough in common. And there were guys who broke my heart without a second thought.

But in all that I knew something better was waiting. Someone who would never make me feel like I wasn’t quite right, like we were having to try too hard to make it work. Someone who would value my opinion and work with me to figure things out. Someone who would always be there for me.

I know it’s what you want too. It’s what R wants. We all do.

I read an article earlier this week about a woman who said her husband is not her best friend. She has a best friend she likes to do things with and her husband is different, someone she loves, but not the person she’s always going to go to.

It works for her. But it would never work for me.

I have a couple of best friends, women who I’ve known forever who are always there for me. The friends who you know would help you hide the body (you know what I’m talking about). My friends are amazing women that I can pick up the phone and call at any point and it’s like no time has passed no matter how long it’s been.

But my husband… I can’t imagine going even one day without him. When I cry, it’s him I want to talk to. When I’m excited, it’s him I want to share it with. When I’m bored, it’s him I want to go out with.

Maybe this has come from being in a city for so many years without my best friends. Once upon a time I couldn’t imagine thinking of my husband as my best friend, but he is, without a doubt, my best friend now.

I can’t imagine having settled for one of those other men in my life. Two of my exes got in touch with me after I met my husband. One was only a few months after we started dating and the other was when I was pregnant with our first kid. I could tell from those conversations that they were calling to see if we had a chance left. Both of them wanted to settle for me because they hadn’t found anyone else.

I was sad for them. Both were great guys, but they were grasping at straws to find someone to settle down with, someone to settle for. Neither relationship would have worked in the long run for a variety of reasons, but both conversations reminded me that my choices were the best ones for me. And I was not settling for someone who was good enough.

I hope you don’t live with regrets. I hope you never know what it’s like to settle for a person and then find the one you’ve been looking for. I hope The One shows up before you ever think about settling, but I know the wait is hard.

Keep looking. Keep searching. And keep reminding yourself you are worth waiting for.

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