tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70765661157683283262024-02-26T02:02:15.632-05:00Michelle A. ValentineNew York Times and USA Today Best Selling Author Michelle A. ValentineAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-62174693608005555112018-08-24T15:12:00.002-04:002018-08-24T15:12:17.434-04:00<br />
<br />
Coming Soon!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUp9o5utpk4u0UssmkqfzBLJxjojB1kJRixQJUHPGQzwwlmJX6Ng5KMG_5gMiAE5REWdeI8goXVe_v2l1TXypAVNgdl5wgN9g1vMpNck7e5kq4fmbZUpXxrXMUbg9N4ihET4yI4eT9tJ0/s1600/The+Right+One.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUp9o5utpk4u0UssmkqfzBLJxjojB1kJRixQJUHPGQzwwlmJX6Ng5KMG_5gMiAE5REWdeI8goXVe_v2l1TXypAVNgdl5wgN9g1vMpNck7e5kq4fmbZUpXxrXMUbg9N4ihET4yI4eT9tJ0/s640/The+Right+One.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">When I married my husband, we promised till death do us part. Too bad only one of us meant it.</b><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Licking my wounds, I’m forced to take my son and move back home to start over. Also not in my plans is Kane Decker, my high school crush, still living next door to my parents. Yet there he is, in all his mouth-watering glory, determined to help me find the carefree girl he once knew. </span><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Kane makes me want things. And I’m not sure I’m ready to open my heart up again no matter how amazing his kiss is or how much I crave his skin against mine. He’s trying to change my mind, doing his best to convince me to let him in because this time he’s the right one.</span><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" /><b style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">*Book One in The Decker Brothers Series*</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/TheRightOneBook"><img border="0" data-original-height="45" data-original-width="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAiNVeKXmdx6PlqAD5IGnZqkgs4fawu3B-nkRPXZ5-bBaeU7HRtFJQFsKfkmLRAooD_PDgxY62Al5v6G5JCW4-4vNiOdZk4v6hgrqjqlhEN8oxuKj_09hzIvqaJ9WaJi1yrGNUZr1cbiA/s1600/add-to-goodreads-button.png" /></a><span id="goog_828157612"></span><span id="goog_828157613"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;"><br /></b></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-91858972946481205292018-02-21T20:34:00.000-05:002018-02-21T20:40:36.949-05:00Thrust Under Release Date Announcement <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Look what releases February 27th!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7076566115768328326" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7076566115768328326" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7076566115768328326" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7076566115768328326" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfu-wC6HQ2Ac42U2W7OkepAmevl_hTIEeCe6No8AgL_BJW4RQCJ6VDzis4eV2i8TJ15RfK_Yi0kPlrLHOuRhbbwzzkI8W23Pss2MPpsHehsuf92A0L6kSwtDzmdxFZ4OA2Fs9kpMp0LA/s1600/Thrust+Under+E-Book+Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfu-wC6HQ2Ac42U2W7OkepAmevl_hTIEeCe6No8AgL_BJW4RQCJ6VDzis4eV2i8TJ15RfK_Yi0kPlrLHOuRhbbwzzkI8W23Pss2MPpsHehsuf92A0L6kSwtDzmdxFZ4OA2Fs9kpMp0LA/s640/Thrust+Under+E-Book+Cover.png" width="425" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="color: #131313;">Gabriel Carter is the biggest, cockiest
asshole I’ve ever met.</b><span style="color: #131313;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #131313;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #131313;">He’s six-foot-three inches of ex-baseball player—sexy
muscles and smoldering looks that turn my body into a traitorous mess.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Merriweather-Regular; mso-bidi-font-family: Merriweather-Regular;">Did I mention he’s also the reason business
at my family’s hotel is quickly going down the drain?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Merriweather-Regular; mso-bidi-font-family: Merriweather-Regular;">I shouldn’t want him, but try explaining
that to my body. Especially after he proposes a business deal to me that will
be mutually rewarding—both financially and sexually.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Merriweather-Regular; mso-bidi-font-family: Merriweather-Regular;">Sleep with the enemy? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #131313; font-family: Merriweather-Regular; mso-bidi-font-family: Merriweather-Regular;">Nah, I’ll just marry the bastard instead.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvFuD25uaUd6L098FpVFaHQOGo7DW4fLoLZzk5lxcNw5c4FcyLXnOxbVhJE26_M9kG612MZaNZ6t29_IH1Y76us2_aS5supkpIJ9NuN77xE2B6CNhTAGUqhmvj986C6UwUDBEWHwRhvY/s1600/Thrust+Under+Teaser+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvFuD25uaUd6L098FpVFaHQOGo7DW4fLoLZzk5lxcNw5c4FcyLXnOxbVhJE26_M9kG612MZaNZ6t29_IH1Y76us2_aS5supkpIJ9NuN77xE2B6CNhTAGUqhmvj986C6UwUDBEWHwRhvY/s640/Thrust+Under+Teaser+1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></b>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Add on Goodreads:</b></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35305641-thrust-under">https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35305641-thrust-under</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MgC685njIoc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MgC685njIoc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22A0CSItZDLZpz9O9OnV9_HcUCNsh8UC_dym1iFjLGhC0n9No1wNE5z_FRvug9zsSkERea3ovuEzqoKVbVdUqEAUX-4nE-KqiI9sFz1383Fzbp8Vn9e5z1y-1qmSgjnoXmOBkQlJpRjw/s1600/11147577_1034443109920681_6166317442376261709_o+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22A0CSItZDLZpz9O9OnV9_HcUCNsh8UC_dym1iFjLGhC0n9No1wNE5z_FRvug9zsSkERea3ovuEzqoKVbVdUqEAUX-4nE-KqiI9sFz1383Fzbp8Vn9e5z1y-1qmSgjnoXmOBkQlJpRjw/s320/11147577_1034443109920681_6166317442376261709_o+%25281%2529.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
New York Times Best Selling author Michelle A. Valentine is
a Central Ohio nurse turned author of erotic and New Adult romance. Her love of
hard-rock music, tattoos and sexy musicians inspires her naughty characters.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Find Michelle Online:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Michelle-A-Valentine/477823962249268">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Michelle-A-Valentine/477823962249268</a><br />
Facebook Reader Group: <a href="http://on.fb.me/1HRxCJH">http://on.fb.me/1HRxCJH</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/M_A_Valentine">https://twitter.com/M_A_Valentine</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/michelleavalentine/">https://www.instagram.com/michelleavalentine/</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Goodreads: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6540645.Michelle_A_Valentine">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6540645.Michelle_A_Valentine</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Amazon: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Michelle-A.-Valentine/e/B00AD9TKU4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1512358908&sr=8-1">https://www.amazon.com/Michelle-A.-Valentine/e/B00AD9TKU4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1512358908&sr=8-1</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Website: <a href="http://www.michelleavalentine.com/"><span style="background: white; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">http://www.michelleavalentine.com</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #111111; font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj21E6c80g6TGFHThIAc1iH5j2ZffFu34CrDo_iwAbkylfyRlhY5WI3KXlCc4WmbPKxdinFl3GKoPppz4eC4qNJfv3VCsUhbAPTE0b19NAnvsSTeEsrcL48BcRwvZ0Zt4SOdcoka59msI/s1600/28308393_925608940927636_784111405_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj21E6c80g6TGFHThIAc1iH5j2ZffFu34CrDo_iwAbkylfyRlhY5WI3KXlCc4WmbPKxdinFl3GKoPppz4eC4qNJfv3VCsUhbAPTE0b19NAnvsSTeEsrcL48BcRwvZ0Zt4SOdcoka59msI/s320/28308393_925608940927636_784111405_n.jpg" width="238" /></a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman";">Emily Snow is
the </span><i style="font-family: 'times new roman';">New York Times</i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> and </span><i style="font-family: 'times new roman';">USA Today</i><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> bestselling author of the
DEVOURED series (October 2012, January 2013) and TIDAL (December 2012). She
loves books, sexy bad boys, and really loud rock music, so naturally, she
writes stories about all three.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Find Emily Online:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font";">Facebook Reader Group: </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/YTSGroupies/" style="font-family: 'system font';"><span style="color: #294387; text-decoration: none;">https://www.facebook.com/groups/YTSGroupies/</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font"; mso-bidi-font-family: "System Font";">Instagram: <a href="http://www.i/">www.i</a><span style="color: #294387; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://nstagram.com/emilysnowbooks">nstagram.com/emilysnowbooks</a><a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2Femilysnowbooks&h=ATPYdCMK0oqPgHYaW7jJCEAGY9W7IZcJadPnD8Un-iUCSb_hM06q9TpFzj1GTtKsqC-i3TXoPVuhuGoD7gyLILTYCPwxwYKUpx4QDPUQoJqHu-4nVeALdf2g_FM"><o:p></o:p></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font"; mso-bidi-font-family: "System Font";">BookBub: <a href="https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily-snow">https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily-snow</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font"; mso-bidi-font-family: "System Font";">Amazon: htt<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2paWyIE&h=ATPYdCMK0oqPgHYaW7jJCEAGY9W7IZcJadPnD8Un-iUCSb_hM06q9TpFzj1GTtKsqC-i3TXoPVuhuGoD7gyLILTYCPwxwYKUpx4QDPUQoJqHu-4nVeALdf2g_FM"><span style="color: #294387; text-decoration: none;">p://amzn.to/2paWyIE</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font"; mso-bidi-font-family: "System Font";">Facebook Page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EmilySnowBooks/">https://www.facebook.com/EmilySnowBooks/</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #3a3e44; font-family: "system font"; mso-bidi-font-family: "System Font";">Goodreads:<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6519108.Emily_Snow">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6519108.Emily_Snow</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if !mso]>
<style>
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style>
<![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>AR-SA</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="false"
DefSemiHidden="false" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="380">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footer"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="index heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of figures"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-no-proof: yes;"><!--[endif]--></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-88745732567825888262017-11-26T16:05:00.000-05:002017-11-26T16:05:34.596-05:00The Biker's Virgin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxf95HLi_uL6XZD9fJz-0yEbiktZMFOo_ksSmrPqTQX7ksVe6cIQ6PzsLT_1TAZXnIlvUpl5p6TOqLQ8EUH7ytIGO-boR0k73xv0Zr-JDk0TciVp0vh9up1LwjppPE_d0_Jj02CGOj7G4/s1600/Biker%2527s+Virgin+MAV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxf95HLi_uL6XZD9fJz-0yEbiktZMFOo_ksSmrPqTQX7ksVe6cIQ6PzsLT_1TAZXnIlvUpl5p6TOqLQ8EUH7ytIGO-boR0k73xv0Zr-JDk0TciVp0vh9up1LwjppPE_d0_Jj02CGOj7G4/s640/Biker%2527s+Virgin+MAV.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;"><b><i>I was given one simple job. Break in and kidnap a rival MC club’s daughter.</i></b></span><br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;" /><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: 'SF Optimized', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, '.SFNSText-Regular', sans-serif; letter-spacing: -0.11999999731779099px;"><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">I wasn’t expecting her to be a barely legal virgin begging me to take her.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">I have to have her—wife her up and let the world know she belongs to me. I don’t even care if not following orders could cost me my life. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">She’s. <i>Mine</i>. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">No one will take her away from me. </span><br /><br /><b><i>A hot, sexy standalone with a dirty-talking biker and his sweet virgin. </i></b><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Genre: Erotic Romance</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Surprise Release Date: Late Nov 2017/Early Dec 2017, Exact TBA</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">LINKS: </span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Amazon ➙ Link Will Go Live At Release</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Goodreads ➙ </span><a data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F2BdH3ky&h=ATO3Kpnhz6DiaGob0bYUDbsFkWlF992HYyjUUTeo5n1lxgvt94uhQaB-Q-Z7PbBORF48iDkt4Ojr6xmortsTx4jfou16ByElnW7gIdEpeLj9UUofrDAYAfEMKaGluBRVHRVIeB96fzP2e9UJlh5LUCj6DIzLN0Yop3_rdB5aYt728HGOwfLt5Yfr6I9HVley0h08H26_Iv4ZQ3K6te0zp22cEX9fSiNnyVr7HkE5-mOvY4YX0OsoYcBs-fo" href="http://bit.ly/2BdH3ky" rel="nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/2BdH3ky</a><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">ARC Sign-up ➙ </span><a data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F2AafOLj&h=ATMXj2FgQDEk9R2ekypUnGKNKNPJJkVvsD-AEBSXVwq7APyeZstOvYKER3k01k7GuV5UAm74ObxiD1bkQhs-zokxPvq5Qrler8b4Kag0TE7HbCUZu_ttg__TrE_JTaMA_5jXf-EwEVlJYe_murQrV2G2f8S8LpJVfRZbRWud9AvXk6Nj0ubWJknTyxRFZo_WSynmrOQVaRqm1XyDktL1ITIdg7ei4e_4Fd8nQBD9YULxGSuINwliUp1LJa4" href="http://bit.ly/2AafOLj" rel="nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/2AafOLj</a><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">My Facebook Group ➙ </span><a data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fon.fb.me%2F1HRxCJH&h=ATPbGCW8NZBts0AQunXN-PsWxb4bTNalLkLRKGcyRTLjpt3UjuQLQfaE_VL7Ij9GkPoQftVKNORuaORj8cD3A7EnIPXeAXWSNuT2sDCmMtM95yMClbqLtPhYgudyj0BpdbJPJHavsrWVNJCYNwqQmNuKXXczECP9c7WzLIwrickG7cQZOjuA8IlY0YOiOYcxoORp4xvEDrj8LUxB0h-zB6sqCdRhEVuVoKcHtMmPB45KB54rw-980GPKclQ" href="https://on.fb.me/1HRxCJH" rel="nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://on.fb.me/1HRxCJH</a></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZyrzG2CiCmfxFe9Eq5l3YSLPl1OqHS181rT1G7JjVQ03EtJ5LH8OxLzkg1Ckie7GLVZpsTMZJ-p_tZRZlz5L8_EvXxFuuAOAVESKn7oyJ9Ck4NrgDmaBUErgoIvOCRPKFdv16B770-8/s1600/Biker%2527s+Virgin+Tease+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="576" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZyrzG2CiCmfxFe9Eq5l3YSLPl1OqHS181rT1G7JjVQ03EtJ5LH8OxLzkg1Ckie7GLVZpsTMZJ-p_tZRZlz5L8_EvXxFuuAOAVESKn7oyJ9Ck4NrgDmaBUErgoIvOCRPKFdv16B770-8/s400/Biker%2527s+Virgin+Tease+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-52827226017890823432017-06-19T16:50:00.000-04:002017-06-21T22:20:13.566-04:00Love, Sex, Music Now Live!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ur1gq4zTkslip4pJ-UdtVNt-YfH8nXLN0xJNgo1snEQe1YFp6f8QKth_zVFADI0q5DiH4rElMKhvczV_LLZhVOHo1xT2kcETON5ao-qXb04q2QtlBmrPoS34vfr4OLw4Oy0a2Fsn2DI/s1600/Title+and+Author+Name.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1600" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ur1gq4zTkslip4pJ-UdtVNt-YfH8nXLN0xJNgo1snEQe1YFp6f8QKth_zVFADI0q5DiH4rElMKhvczV_LLZhVOHo1xT2kcETON5ao-qXb04q2QtlBmrPoS34vfr4OLw4Oy0a2Fsn2DI/s640/Title+and+Author+Name.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amzn.to/2sWZAkI"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKj5ul5HOTekq2WaRgAOhzz0WPWQ5YyoAKCel2xtS6zcEBLBgOEiFXx0kyYAADQKp_9c5_nk00ggchhphlLVd4X46Syn2sTu0eRLk5tpE3lL40wG4fYjVW7HhBLb3SzdJgJs5sjwnYMWk/s640/Love+Sex+Music+E-Book+Cover.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Releases June 21st, 2017</b></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="http://amzn.to/2sWZAkI">AMAZON</a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">Fame can disappear in an instant…</span><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">Fortune is a fleeting fantasy…</span><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">Laz Rawlings had them both, until he lost it all…</span></b><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">Laz, a former world-famous music producer screwed up everything thanks to his rock-n-roll lifestyle, but he’s been given an opportunity to prove his genius in the music industry wasn’t a fluke, and he’s hell-bent on not letting history repeat itself. But that’s proving difficult when the young singer he’s tasked with grooming has become the object of his every desire.</span><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">Life has been an uphill battle for Aundrea Newton, so when a sexy, tattooed stranger hand delivers her dream of a music career, she’s skeptical. Nothing ever comes easy, and she knows Laz has the power to crush both her career and her heart with his undeniable sex appeal and charismatic swagger.</span><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;">When the line between mentor and student blurs, both begin to question what’s more important: Love, sex or the music.</span><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><br style="color: #181818; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;"><b><u>**STANDALONE. No Cliffhanger**</u></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30369889-love-sex-music"><img border="0" data-original-height="41" data-original-width="130" height="62" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDVB4_CqEKQQyYg6ipoLgYbkmI2NUXSkTgYX8Ik2h18XgbPyMNJZCXbiahzxKuKxVEe7vc7H8WZ2AY0Fvq_SgQGdFyJnLuXgMleods49oRPwzZNTCC6UFgcej-_SoLfEQI33Iane2HY4/s200/add-to-goodreads.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rMTYGYOvDGOMmvcf1_MiMXfHGNGZS5hQWUFM3X07Kki3CUU_sa4mevTGi5uOOWPYe0f0uG0ohist5Bc3OFpCKhG98TznN_0rcpPNWj639XfUqMFon2_gHm7I0-kLcrmQ7oaNQQAR1ZA/s1600/Love+Sex+Music+Available+Now.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="960" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rMTYGYOvDGOMmvcf1_MiMXfHGNGZS5hQWUFM3X07Kki3CUU_sa4mevTGi5uOOWPYe0f0uG0ohist5Bc3OFpCKhG98TznN_0rcpPNWj639XfUqMFon2_gHm7I0-kLcrmQ7oaNQQAR1ZA/s320/Love+Sex+Music+Available+Now.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpx-gTTvV6dmXof9qP0aBDWjq0SKTlWOHsJ_3drMAN8ZCK5dfEK2ytgxbVakVK4Mhhp4fTeEsvZW2TkwB4pjPF-gFV1v1YTvy3s505KV6vGxxDtScRwg7J0z5XPY1Nujt3kMzPGTl86TY/s1600/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Fight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="1200" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpx-gTTvV6dmXof9qP0aBDWjq0SKTlWOHsJ_3drMAN8ZCK5dfEK2ytgxbVakVK4Mhhp4fTeEsvZW2TkwB4pjPF-gFV1v1YTvy3s505KV6vGxxDtScRwg7J0z5XPY1Nujt3kMzPGTl86TY/s320/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Fight.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-t3CS1sy7ZproXJtJC82fqrhOf7Xp4HpO5DwNDiSuNe0Mixm9xmQ4AQT1AhlrMkXDMYGy0dR9cC6i81nNS5rseEZ1VZMnac3nHYpP5XPRRbY9fgRX108KCGhUoWxbcTCOIfwnlrcdO0/s1600/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Kiss+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="960" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-t3CS1sy7ZproXJtJC82fqrhOf7Xp4HpO5DwNDiSuNe0Mixm9xmQ4AQT1AhlrMkXDMYGy0dR9cC6i81nNS5rseEZ1VZMnac3nHYpP5XPRRbY9fgRX108KCGhUoWxbcTCOIfwnlrcdO0/s320/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Kiss+.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E5wAHeHkhe71MrCH4FWefva8iOxqjEBpB2J7dXoSY0Q8QbniKpMEmgYICTNbPoHlkeeCYa6h8WwEy0Cn5KBl0RceWFOtiXFioRJPFFS1KQku7G_JSUQPqyXsviYszox9MMhYCNMAbyE/s1600/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Today.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="960" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E5wAHeHkhe71MrCH4FWefva8iOxqjEBpB2J7dXoSY0Q8QbniKpMEmgYICTNbPoHlkeeCYa6h8WwEy0Cn5KBl0RceWFOtiXFioRJPFFS1KQku7G_JSUQPqyXsviYszox9MMhYCNMAbyE/s320/Love+Sex+Music+Teaser+Today.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2sWZAkI">NOW LIVE ON AMAZON</a></span><br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-64076519558814442692016-07-13T11:23:00.000-04:002016-07-13T11:23:51.070-04:00LOVE, SEX, MUSIC Coming Soon!Next Release From Michelle A. Valentine!!<br />
<br />
LOVE, SEX, MUSIC!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30369889-love-sex-music">Add it to your Goodreads HERE!</a><br />
<br />
Get an Email when the Book Releases--<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeNMRTP1NBZ-yJ-8ILsdSiCAmxu5pwQvBkK_P01BubLZzXLjQ/viewform">Click Here!</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wE64rQXGMVEefZwpBRUkIiGufQKQ9IRtDfvSwVEVMU6KoHR4cOQJAi95Mo6UVBIke8astgy5N8DI1Y8bBS1JAVYyxvW0CFinob8TdBiFPTgv_xibxy0DomUOd2LQ5zn78u2ObgMzlsU/s1600/LSM+Cover+teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wE64rQXGMVEefZwpBRUkIiGufQKQ9IRtDfvSwVEVMU6KoHR4cOQJAi95Mo6UVBIke8astgy5N8DI1Y8bBS1JAVYyxvW0CFinob8TdBiFPTgv_xibxy0DomUOd2LQ5zn78u2ObgMzlsU/s320/LSM+Cover+teaser.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqX18CNcERqeUt-6dOdbKGklF3Val3dg4TQP1ulBV1gIha7AEgKZTqfJjZ6yEzEJsvoPtgGMr4qk-vKKm2146FTaDnhdEt1C2aDe0Z017WHb4CltkJ4nbjktXflCbhFldCAtJCDJ66YwU/s1600/LSM+Teaser+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqX18CNcERqeUt-6dOdbKGklF3Val3dg4TQP1ulBV1gIha7AEgKZTqfJjZ6yEzEJsvoPtgGMr4qk-vKKm2146FTaDnhdEt1C2aDe0Z017WHb4CltkJ4nbjktXflCbhFldCAtJCDJ66YwU/s320/LSM+Teaser+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-55944911840836058192016-06-09T18:10:00.000-04:002016-06-18T23:40:48.735-04:00DIRTY DEALS (The Complete Sexy Manhattan Fairytale) Is Live!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amzn.to/1tgexLp"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOMK9B_NZZ1o-MMeq2ti90o_jJ6EKoVD2l4q-BTcvhze79Ilwc1lZkV2MY5tWxqF_FmzN9eSjO_y7RHLey0c5Rj4cWuzFY00vquLgx_quAxPCYAqiro5CP6GqX8ZtDBbLDkR9jdzDm6A/s640/Dirty-Deals-Generic.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Buy Now!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Amazon:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; cursor: pointer; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://amzn.to/1tgexLp" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1tgexLp</a></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Kcpwy6NZE2w/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kcpwy6NZE2w?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><object class="BLOG_video_class" contentid="UPLOADING" height="266" id="BLOG_video-UPLOADING-0" width="320"></object></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; outline: none; width: auto;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"></span></span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_5759e128054623d63743501" style="display: inline;">
<span style="font-size: large;">FULL-LENGTH BOOK-- DIRTY DEALS: <a href="http://amzn.to/1tgexLp" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1tgexLp</a></span><br />
The King Always Gets His Way.<br />
Women, business, pleasure: When I want it, I get it.<br />
I’m never denied.<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />Including her.<br />I will break her.<br />I will show her who the king of this city really is.<br />The Feisty Princess of Manhattan will learn I am not a man that can be tempted.<br />No matter how fucking bad I want her in my bed.</span></div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><span style="font-size: large;">FULL-LENGTH BOOK-- DIRTY DEALS: <a href="http://amzn.to/1tgexLp" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1tgexLp</a></span><br />**A THREE part erotic romance series. Super naughty new series From NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Michelle A. Valentine (Rock the Heart, Phenomenal X, Demon at My Door)<br /><br />Goodreads: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F23644021-naughty-king&h=kAQHkzkVR&enc=AZPLlkXplP-j7Xw-MIl8JGqmYVywJ8rrjXje4IzbXzxs3a6yQl_XG150XFb35_xpEGi3uRI9OEvAQG3hBz5jWwz0zZ2udYT3tGNaLWYLFWDU_7lcaqbpk3Fdq5TALj6DlMxUDC9ZymlrFRLacWM46TRW&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>book/show/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>23644021-naughty-king</a><br /><br /><b><u><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Naughty King (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One)</i></span></u></b><br />Amazon US: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1AHrXeT&h=OAQE31gsJ&enc=AZMTFt6TQyBzM3yghUtrBTEuLQzJOq3OVUR24z3eaLSkhARdnJj3wRKcR_60oXv9UZegDz__Z_6yMkBXBoguZrB0fiKkWLsc0NzU00iegOBFvhkaxSfYeA6YLNjqltm39BqJqYr3OniIa-LEugqrPGqW&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1AHrXeT</a><br />Amazon UK: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FlbKqpK&h=6AQE8mCLO&enc=AZPAkOdz88JP8_G1HWeGod1pjTU92eI30yNRNUXcwlHGLULbWoP7Qdt2NdWeTwhs9XfAb8zwsHpspLsyt9MWTw1CME-ndK88z7M5co11Sj1sBSf5VLxqQZPrk1Z4AznoYRiLBUFjJHyeSnidJjb3sl5S&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/lbKqpK</a><br />Amazon AU: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0TYqRH&h=XAQGqltU9&enc=AZMGqxFb1yxwQGISJ9LVh_cWMUeP5V4SeODdJdvwk6H80d80f9aNka6WyXiLySxJ04W7Q6CiyfSHhLTyBB50zVMU42nX2GH96EBngJ_D6mciBhEKUGmr_VJzQ0-D-6uLBuF44DlifVASR-0aOsF6wICE&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0TYqRH</a><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><u><br /><b><i>Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two) </i></b></u></span><b><i><br /></i></b><br />Amazon: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1jmnhKX&h=aAQEZp1AV&enc=AZOr_M6bVlV_VUda7bDYtk7__BigZmUTVJlKNiS0Tf2BiIM6JhqGeBwegevredT12VzZSvzRshaW5oYRPfn1OlxPtN9BrSLWNeX77YSpgPs-7_vQ9WoTWWykPkPAd7eD5h50o5q4xLg_8vMauN9QBihU&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1jmnhKX</a><br />Amazon UK: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F7f4F8A&h=uAQETODY7&enc=AZOCcgO8CiuMNIXLtlKjSJEZvPZnH4HIcaJOcfugrOFLa0943nWg2ll3yb6uUU-MxGdQCoZF7IMN7efSP35i0_YscRXC5xH6hYvlDo_gSdy8f3c8jdRzvf7myDiCQI9RGTMT87G2hAUSL7YS3DZDKayD&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/7f4F8A</a><br /><br /><u><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Dirty Royals (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Three) </span></i></b></u><br />Goodreads: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F1Pgl7pg&h=NAQGjYVrI&enc=AZM55xb6uJP4xzY2OtyfXaEgK8sk9iaBXiHziFqp3kMCnnoq2gWr2ZyzznB2u8YfgktLs8Dje_68cPvCWHMZjCCuLCR7ZzbkdtLMv1lw_6MsbMpJVjsBXNkX8g5SN6fCJHQkaMn3Td84oO7YsvWvrySv&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1Pgl7pg</a><br />AmazonUS: <a href="http://amzn.to/1TXFlvj" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1TXFlvj</a><br />AmazonUK: <a href="http://amzn.to/1UxxqPt" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1UxxqPt</a><br />AmazonCA: <a href="http://amzn.to/1RWv62J" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1RWv62J</a><br />AmazonAU: <a href="http://amzn.to/1OceCZz" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1OceCZz</a><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://eepurl.com/P1919">NEWSLETTER SIGN UP</a></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-61816809710834641032016-06-07T19:27:00.001-04:002016-06-07T19:29:49.662-04:00Dirty Royals is Live!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHyOTe03kQ1yw5XiiLz1bs1YD1_ayxuHL8-2Jb_EjOE9eIH-VnUYLBf-vN-_laN-OqP3Ihwp-668sI_zDIzGyFUbyV1R60B5fywj2mFSO8fGkoaNLhm5RrcSeb0JJH0ajULya07wWTT4/s1600/RoyalsBookCover5x8_BW_350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHyOTe03kQ1yw5XiiLz1bs1YD1_ayxuHL8-2Jb_EjOE9eIH-VnUYLBf-vN-_laN-OqP3Ihwp-668sI_zDIzGyFUbyV1R60B5fywj2mFSO8fGkoaNLhm5RrcSeb0JJH0ajULya07wWTT4/s640/RoyalsBookCover5x8_BW_350.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">Release Date: June 7th 2016</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Synopsis:</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">My evil plan is right on schedule. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I have her right where I want her, and soon I’ll be ready to lower the boom. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">That is, if I can force myself to screw her over. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">She’s got to me—made me care about her—and now I have two loves—my company and the Feisty Princess. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I can’t have them both. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">It’s time to choose. </span><br />
<br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Book three in a three-part erotic romance series. Super naughty new series From NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Michelle A. Valentine (Rock the Heart, Phenomenal X, Demon at My Door). </span><br />
<br style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Naughty King (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Dirty Royals (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Three) </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZB2rPi3aQTICpjT2bYTQxSVvXCwn0M_AI7h8-Jhspe45IcNGi3s6hFIWWKtbr-qa3cjKeJyz6ox6vtwdYAyCv_PbQI-YyW9DGhxKE0TnPknRqNDR1c4gZMdZ7YSkMSv4QKsdrMVkSAM/s1600/Dirty+Royals+Teaser+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZB2rPi3aQTICpjT2bYTQxSVvXCwn0M_AI7h8-Jhspe45IcNGi3s6hFIWWKtbr-qa3cjKeJyz6ox6vtwdYAyCv_PbQI-YyW9DGhxKE0TnPknRqNDR1c4gZMdZ7YSkMSv4QKsdrMVkSAM/s640/Dirty+Royals+Teaser+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiez-r6G1att59skCCoHnvHWzCgg5-f4NVU5eqSO5RzDL24KwRaJ8fS0BLSLJ2IAsY2Peh9ZjAIUjm7UdOrWTiP9pWo82J4ru5aWKRGVeBADtQEAbPVDL6jZtUbU3RMot0aXODKa_JuBGw/s1600/Dirty+Royals+Teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiez-r6G1att59skCCoHnvHWzCgg5-f4NVU5eqSO5RzDL24KwRaJ8fS0BLSLJ2IAsY2Peh9ZjAIUjm7UdOrWTiP9pWo82J4ru5aWKRGVeBADtQEAbPVDL6jZtUbU3RMot0aXODKa_JuBGw/s640/Dirty+Royals+Teaser.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAfrq2EQ3pd2qRySLAdzw4n89kZ16IH9WcK6Oc9BR_HOzsjtEcZrVZlT6mPv6mtRiA7kdktZbpEbSLHIHwgJ3n9tzN4Jwk8lPE2nllGjiPBoXgUizGCZGHpNrag8qGyLEY3DSDlaBUbzw/s1600/King+Books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAfrq2EQ3pd2qRySLAdzw4n89kZ16IH9WcK6Oc9BR_HOzsjtEcZrVZlT6mPv6mtRiA7kdktZbpEbSLHIHwgJ3n9tzN4Jwk8lPE2nllGjiPBoXgUizGCZGHpNrag8qGyLEY3DSDlaBUbzw/s640/King+Books.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Naughty King (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One)</span><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon US: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1AHrXeT&h=uAQEEUBVH&enc=AZOPcNKtEHbBzoGyfkXR28U0bh7dIBhZP0IWDrRm8u9275Hp-WZYDuOwX9DTd_WBfQPV3jt38d2S97Mn4-Ob8g6RXuFWnyY_VoHpA-RQY2H-_ZktipONb_Fei5zeSARGDRMiSor7LBpmlY9l_07Javr7&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1AHrXeT</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FlbKqpK&h=mAQHRCWqb&enc=AZMHaniSmjAcYEUDrs9dfNtpnR45-UCeN92Kim16Sn0wYXtJ0KBLMovt640bv3-1GcomjpSmaAf7ftljMGKDrmEtuG4EsTO_MAgzDkR_wugxJMuMrfzqJmBqWZCV32Iv17jfcc0bzJyKOtYDlXCxx2us&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/lbKqpK</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon AU: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0TYqRH&h=VAQFpo18d&enc=AZO-SdqelXa24Biv9Whq6CJBk6XgOL_2tIBnuwkva69W7ARy_c58OvIJvNlqj33G5N2p6B5RwVIocoAG3ZHIcfGgQdn7bIjfzlQ82lbIPe6Dmctq_P8W2QHV-FK8oa8ltDG0WmSRJY9kw95GmV3Uno67&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0TYqRH</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Naughty King Goodreads: </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F23644021-naughty-king&h=YAQH6pqiI&enc=AZMzpz1stLwWfPUN2QwnOyO2fkXU1UIYVTI_IQ7DGkjXW1pXHhpqoX1uEgX33LDjL_NNsUwPPew-E0E-EzPTKjjdPC7tjVRLLlw_x3HWYziXWhpVMDzbYL8O4VC-WvFjV6QCUyeORkepw9C63DgsVMtd&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>book/show/<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>23644021-naughty-king</a><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two) </span><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1jmnhKX&h=6AQFNBos0&enc=AZN_-gbDHdTVsGm-SfZSVNonNGG12Xlb4cknZpi6ttNL_rgnMaGAl5X_uFLseVeica0TOoAslWbc7P4jijGH24MC3jJmlUKAxaQdY-rRVzzgv7D1zeptdfgkzBw54H_5rdNaIKfZgTNOKGfD_QQdTKs4&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1jmnhKX</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F7f4F8A&h=ZAQE2cl65&enc=AZOpjiNk353pM6P7Koe1G044d09L2udCvkU-DwmTtkJNgwEmZfAOui5pki_mh_gpaMOtuJnmiSVul60LTWoMro9AW_boLis9GgllgVZR83XLeXUdMRN62uV985KnsJmROOsEo31EaysidH-cMdnyGp6-&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/7f4F8A</a><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Dirty Royals: </span><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Goodreads: </span><a href="http://bit.ly/1Pgl7pg" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1Pgl7pg</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">AmazonUS: </span><a href="http://amzn.to/1TXFlvj" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1TXFlvj</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">AmazonUK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1UxxqPt&h=UAQFRMQtR&enc=AZOb3FHXkX5yYesEIPS7wrDu7xMW-mNKngVcq6FertMpXIiVJfknMOxwhiolKnyQ6jtTi15D_pl3sVxMtZ40sAgACpXn1cXW5w1bF7WR4HzwP0dwCzgOn_cXFvCt6iIsVEstaIg1xa4jxQJP_z5u8THo&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1UxxqPt</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">AmazonCA: </span><a href="http://amzn.to/1RWv62J" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1RWv62J</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">AmazonAU: </span><a href="http://amzn.to/1OceCZz" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1OceCZz</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">B&N:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">iBooks: </span><a href="http://apple.co/24x3Ejh" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://apple.co/24x3Ejh</a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Kobo: </span><a href="http://bit.ly/1Uxx8rG" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1Uxx8rG</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZGQ67Sb34RwvHld1bTe6w068Xy8E6zjygRWy3SjS0E7mJZRkH9hB2zJiheGQRhXeNxM6wAPc29A2eRvlnjfWv8iAoHsCQBkeBUfu3KsEsaJS5tZM66NxLWmtMnJS0K8V4FJ6SUktCGM/s1600/Dirty+Royals+Release+Banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZGQ67Sb34RwvHld1bTe6w068Xy8E6zjygRWy3SjS0E7mJZRkH9hB2zJiheGQRhXeNxM6wAPc29A2eRvlnjfWv8iAoHsCQBkeBUfu3KsEsaJS5tZM66NxLWmtMnJS0K8V4FJ6SUktCGM/s640/Dirty+Royals+Release+Banner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-88904548111182381222016-05-31T19:19:00.000-04:002016-06-07T19:30:06.631-04:00WICKED LOVE is Live!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AGIiUk9nMdqtrLwzSYwyAoKHd5kXaiIrdaca05C84DyhoqrtEYhJaqzaabBbwpad62SAbyvThgz1NkXJpry3kMoOjbycXZiVw3G4XGZwN6Strz0q2ikJPjEqkDTOztQH7QhyvfQB-8o/s1600/Wicked+Love+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2AGIiUk9nMdqtrLwzSYwyAoKHd5kXaiIrdaca05C84DyhoqrtEYhJaqzaabBbwpad62SAbyvThgz1NkXJpry3kMoOjbycXZiVw3G4XGZwN6Strz0q2ikJPjEqkDTOztQH7QhyvfQB-8o/s640/Wicked+Love+Cover.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">Released May 31st!</span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><u>Synopsis: </u></span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 14px; padding: 0px;">
All Tyler Mercer wanted was to make music—until he met Avery Jenson. The beautiful new girl in town turned his head and struck a chord in his heart. But when their one night of passion results in devastating tragedy, Tyler hits the road, leaving behind his dead-end hometown and the girl he knows he’ll never forget.</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-top: -4px; padding: 0px;">
After her father was caught embezzling, Avery’s comfortable life in the city was blown to bits. But meeting Tyler helped to pick up the pieces and eased her into country living. She just never expected the handsome musician would add to her heartbreak by walking away without a backward glance.</div>
<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-top: -4px; padding: 0px;">
Now, three years later, rock star Tyler’s come back, hat in hand. He’s found fame and fortune as a member of Wicked White, but it’s all worth nothing without Avery’s love. Can she forgive him for leaving when she needed him most? Or will the ghost of their past keep them apart?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8wq6KcVZXF7RERMrE2SLSXriKllH4pBPPKzOKy9E0kNrzXW3WRJHmZPIu7ZwUGM6ZKCP8HjsDaaURutXYlrMxT222xukcOwBIeIrt-xCoM-td9OAP2zbnm0RkGwh2CWzP18IG7WNHDo/s1600/Wicked+Love+Teaser+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-8wq6KcVZXF7RERMrE2SLSXriKllH4pBPPKzOKy9E0kNrzXW3WRJHmZPIu7ZwUGM6ZKCP8HjsDaaURutXYlrMxT222xukcOwBIeIrt-xCoM-td9OAP2zbnm0RkGwh2CWzP18IG7WNHDo/s640/Wicked+Love+Teaser+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoNN_G2jtlwQLkgNshcNF-qtwEyQfyaT5jIfIf28J9zXiyPvuzHDp5ViDdCZQMtFKfmCjnkisrpQvog150rkN-G2Rg3Kk1PlinYCfTN-hmSnkF8BoryMpgLIPf9o98Ls86JK_kT8q1BE/s1600/Wicked+Love+Teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhoNN_G2jtlwQLkgNshcNF-qtwEyQfyaT5jIfIf28J9zXiyPvuzHDp5ViDdCZQMtFKfmCjnkisrpQvog150rkN-G2Rg3Kk1PlinYCfTN-hmSnkF8BoryMpgLIPf9o98Ls86JK_kT8q1BE/s640/Wicked+Love+Teaser.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><u>Teaser: </u></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">“Tyler pulls the microphone up to his full lips and sings the chorus of the song. His eyelids close, and the moment feels almost sensual, like I’m witnessing him baring his soul. His voice is as smooth as a silk ribbon sliding against my skin. It’s hypnotic and beautiful with a bit of rasp that turns it downright sexy.” </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><u>Purchase Links: </u></span><br />
<br style="color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Wicked White: </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Amazon: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1FGWr7B&h=zAQGLRXW0&enc=AZMO3nsB5M1DKou_S2sLTy_SDIBmEvxo0NRORnt0fJ3fHGhrUabRClzXgieuX0M55c79RVNBgWFXY0HN46nKzYRhfwft15LQqdL-URjAh5QB-7jKDNoDMsL6rULEMkbrqmhua1cSGGwKbFKLWYkSXOOK&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1FGWr7B</a><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />Wicked Reunion:<br />Amazon: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1WXEf2L&h=ZAQE2cl65&enc=AZMjXoqFcaZWOhZmJShLDSFs-qcrsca0ejExXr4F4OlnkJPM21lxWkQXiB2E9Kgfa2P4u3mLMCaHRHzFo-jGbGtRwGR9kSveD_yTX2t6wyzM-EmAPjj7Xz0mHJMPfcfGJDYHoZZKIseip0r8W3ZAKeL8&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1WXEf2L</a><br /><br />Wicked Love: New Release<br />Amazon: <a href="http://amzn.to/1SlwdKG" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1SlwdKG</a></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkxJd-zf5jVb1S6Fp1gS99WzXuR0-47YptngWGx6txfALgqMQoZeBTYmAdgQGNhP3TM7OUASagPHuajpbnydW96HCH3a-RYVlVV6MZYZ7mLsieShELMFqlUjPu7ZXgaiVWliF8DvYjgo/s1600/Wicked+White+Books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkxJd-zf5jVb1S6Fp1gS99WzXuR0-47YptngWGx6txfALgqMQoZeBTYmAdgQGNhP3TM7OUASagPHuajpbnydW96HCH3a-RYVlVV6MZYZ7mLsieShELMFqlUjPu7ZXgaiVWliF8DvYjgo/s640/Wicked+White+Books.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-15740102308714039252016-01-19T22:34:00.000-05:002016-01-19T22:34:14.920-05:00Xavier Cold Release!!!<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lUMeg27fHL4FbvGJ_VaGgFCd1iM9XxycPoJzeTOJ57JC5oKrS47Lu-E4tc5gS38YDAHsWKPNDOvnZtcM1DQjy171-gTNrhyphenhyphen9Qoarap_8bixAkl2gIids1qQYtvg9j6-s21-Ggcn5xVI/s1600/XC+Naughty+V3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lUMeg27fHL4FbvGJ_VaGgFCd1iM9XxycPoJzeTOJ57JC5oKrS47Lu-E4tc5gS38YDAHsWKPNDOvnZtcM1DQjy171-gTNrhyphenhyphen9Qoarap_8bixAkl2gIids1qQYtvg9j6-s21-Ggcn5xVI/s640/XC+Naughty+V3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Jan 20th 2016 release date:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Amazon Pre-order: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1KoYjQ7&h=0AQFqXUsV&enc=AZMJvr-nyuOeBMaOO2sAOUoofby9ksOx37WBUbOUJeihUUmx3WhZgWo8sQNSQeuSipuIj9uzaE6748XAb91KFifp2vc45eZuoB3PEdeTILgn00Ji-gYSqiz7r9qa232HtN797Tys7nyZdDPdWDS9WO_q&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1KoYjQ7</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1UanZqE&h=dAQHU46Jv&enc=AZN6L00C5uiGIosfUdJycz-nrGJLKcfXB_nK_WZYtTWGYlxaxvaGua9Ur8m5mlHLlvomDrScD0Xy6MGk7fqV38vGDFB7HzizpDKUV6oLJ_UyfNMFrpSur2KbzInTIrg6cpMnqFdWYFZVvFEH5TFkln2L&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1UanZqE</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Amazon AU: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F1Pp8Qxn&h=rAQGPpHvZ&enc=AZORQXW03JNfZ95bDfzBrB0zAUqh1ArhDT_sxxNglLZSCyXcFJSnLI2CRnZG81849MkIt072Aj58IbKihpLgiAujhdW1yWm3TEiJVI_poOycFC-cmh6RyosxzyL5dnnmeqEBZixMy_HeXY0sW2qMa1t6&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1Pp8Qxn</a><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br />Kobo: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F1P2QwOU&h=EAQE9HyRb&enc=AZMa3XsqrE2yK5p193BwYBkPmBM4wJ3oJ0gaXD2LR6oTMXbMT1UshzIj_4BYHCFhbat4xXvxcOrNq9C9KzgwYcuH7CZipkVrmEzoIrXBhMQG9X_JmpxisKxI1SwajZMiMsjkYKI_D1Hu0rj49InxeTUF&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/1P2QwOU</a><br />iBooks: Pending<br />B&N: Pending<br />Google Books: Pending</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_5668cdca69f7a7881582499" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
The conclusion to the New York Times bestselling romance that began in Phenomenal X, about one woman’s pulse-pounding relationship with a notorious bad-boy wrestler.<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /><br />“What’ll it be, Anna Cortez? Are you in, or are you out?”<br /><br />One momentary loss of control has now ruined everything Xavier Cold had going for himself. With his world unraveling fast, he’s willing to do anything to save not only his job but his relationship with the only woman he’s ever loved.<br /><br />Anna Cortez, still reeling from shock, tries desperately to save the man that’s consumed her heart, body and soul. She’ll have to dig deep and find courage she never knew she possessed to help Xavier fight demons from his past—a past that’s even more haunted than she ever imagined.<br /><br />Jan 20th 2016 release date:<br /><br />Amazon Pre-order: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1KoYjQ7&h=aAQE1mngU&enc=AZMBNB5-m9EzjfWahoXVkUaF9uFQo6uMQcXWjxAlznmpZ-gpW6SoDNZwqTB5Z7RxYTCyOKyRqQg0K3LeLTFzRNW2PlNBeBTOCsjB2SX_-Vl_M5pyjwmkwwivO1lXBnHpbONNdwIeyUAsKrt2D61t4ZSn&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1KoYjQ7</a></span></div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg049n_bdxPqnLaM9OwJAN68ctLt3LH9z6MVOAMniRAPcp8we9k0yF5z2tXPoliEnlS0XzKa3_Oi64vqsmgdpKjg28lfsbTpNnYhXCx9mVeMlJq7JaPH2E7XQEOQXkB-AUjobu0XkZiDDw/s1600/51gSYbov5AL._SX308_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg049n_bdxPqnLaM9OwJAN68ctLt3LH9z6MVOAMniRAPcp8we9k0yF5z2tXPoliEnlS0XzKa3_Oi64vqsmgdpKjg28lfsbTpNnYhXCx9mVeMlJq7JaPH2E7XQEOQXkB-AUjobu0XkZiDDw/s320/51gSYbov5AL._SX308_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /><br />Find book one, Phenomenal X here:<br />Amazon US: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1G9Wcou&h=FAQGEWmjY&enc=AZMLZllmi8zTKkl5CXGGD2wEd6osMtOmBq1lTCfhovmgR1b8cFREDEMpDduLfmhpr5DtHkiAguMxIvd4iw5drQMqzSYRlh1-36dcy9xZeSMggJaAE-krQJACRau996hvLjrPmE-2osyJsTwVPK7Efw7P&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1G9Wcou</a><br />Amazon UK: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FNXj890&h=hAQFMKQPU&enc=AZM1_IYUuFrTpJ76EwjtFqeiFF9lVJRz3DdJ3Hc97ycyfZ3hLpQHiIbpmS6juA5wB6CHnKbtu2N-7LrqJNAcO7RrCefYY3Mp1CyFpmNYH1K2a9zF2G3lhZ9uJSaBCVunqpqSOCnXNNx7OBzL447OqkII&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/NXj890</a><br />iBooks: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FamNppQ&h=PAQE_rVLv&enc=AZP7mEGx4sTjr06abNFvNETvEzvxda_PWFAMJjkz-JEz_tIPOjx_fYcijkkKdnI850H4jcjiU9OlQ317dUSOOOGpDRWNoCjxBXLZ0ITVAn0ZtOZNmtqpfZtLKdbA0VIYHdCQBRYtlLQydZtOqq3YeiTe&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/amNppQ</a><br />B&N: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0UdPxw&h=6AQE52jzI&enc=AZPM2deDWMiXweg2WimUo9tM6UhFLYU978x1pScGFAYZD3WpcKXHEvf9Ft-hRF4pHx8TTHyxde9PmBkzi-lyq_MHTduGqRjMR1NtbczQ4QIsPmv0w6eURN6NP3tNYucjrsdEBB4SYuJ8VYLuZ2GWuQb5&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0UdPxw</a><br />Google Books: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F2Buv9b&h=mAQGli6MA&enc=AZNDNjRWg2aYhwgbE_eILCyOeh1-wk2hGoWVJRWfxnrfiBLNPLNyoXJfkb6q1RfC2jMsFi_7Loo_b2WYK2ahZM7zAkfP58CVTSLXW2nj3J-6vj3m5cjvvsOBkPPoyXide8-r7t9BqSw1eYY3qnR4BK_h&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/2Buv9b</a></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaygoK-ximxQbYbMDWTc1KRYIkhfEY-3-Us54zwGUNmteFttskGVeRHvokXJW-6Pi2akm1Dk2O4jypqgnI3TbAbnl_eVEUBBn3mDKw4mjrKZ8Y19JmIu7GWjfFoTX5DsQbIAC5G7f-Ik/s1600/PhenomX6x9-3+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaygoK-ximxQbYbMDWTc1KRYIkhfEY-3-Us54zwGUNmteFttskGVeRHvokXJW-6Pi2akm1Dk2O4jypqgnI3TbAbnl_eVEUBBn3mDKw4mjrKZ8Y19JmIu7GWjfFoTX5DsQbIAC5G7f-Ik/s320/PhenomX6x9-3+%25282%2529.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18.48px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /><br />Add Xavier Cold to your Goodreads:<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22566287-xavier-cold" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span>https://www.goodreads.com/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span>book/show/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>22566287-xavier-cold</a></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">TEASERS!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYo4n9zTcEynorzjkMJr3qVzatBBOW3YzQbAQLu_DMTo85UGCq-L3vdUm8j1vKyBMuT_Jw9eqQJyAbPd_CZMlD8q5zGR_c0qapPx0QHTv6ih73vY1RcQJXX6cecJJ_hIVoP_OPczBeInI/s1600/XC+Teaser+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYo4n9zTcEynorzjkMJr3qVzatBBOW3YzQbAQLu_DMTo85UGCq-L3vdUm8j1vKyBMuT_Jw9eqQJyAbPd_CZMlD8q5zGR_c0qapPx0QHTv6ih73vY1RcQJXX6cecJJ_hIVoP_OPczBeInI/s640/XC+Teaser+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78MjfTKzYu5mUH0zgwlj-YinPgA_sM3YL9mH3KyRjY8qe5xLozyk2xWH0ff4NKR0BIr8vfvRyIe0_6vD1Sbx-8uOth7mnHA03KOuBqFIwCV52NwrWKRKKBjqCla42nnYjRcwLpPf6cjo/s1600/XavierTEASER1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78MjfTKzYu5mUH0zgwlj-YinPgA_sM3YL9mH3KyRjY8qe5xLozyk2xWH0ff4NKR0BIr8vfvRyIe0_6vD1Sbx-8uOth7mnHA03KOuBqFIwCV52NwrWKRKKBjqCla42nnYjRcwLpPf6cjo/s640/XavierTEASER1.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxYhGEZnnJTeHvCAxo9CuYtrZuRLsprXrxMfK0O-lC3H7aZs4sIt3pTuscj4uv2-7bK5bmyoHP33WbPpp4lfiq9AFGVpq0tz0RHJ_DH3SY4XV9_bgvT2UzKE-GxEAvCu7ZXi2QLeWjRw/s1600/X+Teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxYhGEZnnJTeHvCAxo9CuYtrZuRLsprXrxMfK0O-lC3H7aZs4sIt3pTuscj4uv2-7bK5bmyoHP33WbPpp4lfiq9AFGVpq0tz0RHJ_DH3SY4XV9_bgvT2UzKE-GxEAvCu7ZXi2QLeWjRw/s640/X+Teaser.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrGQ_zMs74_2Rqig5fPDJY3W5zBCgwuQAHDg5VDtpRo12gxC9G-Pxq8L6VD_odKH3eiP_R6kJ2rVE7glElzTcVkmUZSVZ88E7fGPBkE7sH1ZLQaPjvM5LR8rlSE_0ceVi_MYXKgalLSU/s1600/X+Teaser+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrGQ_zMs74_2Rqig5fPDJY3W5zBCgwuQAHDg5VDtpRo12gxC9G-Pxq8L6VD_odKH3eiP_R6kJ2rVE7glElzTcVkmUZSVZ88E7fGPBkE7sH1ZLQaPjvM5LR8rlSE_0ceVi_MYXKgalLSU/s640/X+Teaser+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></span></span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-65844444433614667982015-12-09T19:59:00.000-05:002015-12-09T19:59:36.084-05:00Xavier Cold (Hard Knocks Book Two)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkmUylmkSOuJKL5yOf1w5To68cAC3qVUuDLUXzLRvF9JuUssum73bQ9tmZFFQXMz3I6tRAsAIZgJ45hUyVY0_mfgwYSrWSwPXOao_p7KcJ8BN43SxrX2GR4ZXxBPADA_5-kjrytdtHXI/s1600/51gSYbov5AL._SX308_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkmUylmkSOuJKL5yOf1w5To68cAC3qVUuDLUXzLRvF9JuUssum73bQ9tmZFFQXMz3I6tRAsAIZgJ45hUyVY0_mfgwYSrWSwPXOao_p7KcJ8BN43SxrX2GR4ZXxBPADA_5-kjrytdtHXI/s640/51gSYbov5AL._SX308_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<span aria-live="polite" class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 18px; orphans: auto; outline: none; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; width: auto; word-spacing: 0px;" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><br /></span></span>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_5668cdca69f7a7881582499" style="display: inline;">
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" style="display: inline;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Jan 20th 2016 release date:<br /><br />Amazon Pre-order: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1KoYjQ7&h=wAQEEkKHK&enc=AZOhSxA22LaFI0GTJArA1LnP1nu6t97GPK93bBVVXE7NQGczSB2W1Ltf_J93lT3idzm02_7FdnajzO6tU8ZjKXpNMT206MdZhpbquT_zg7aP7s5fpzmVytbFw-PEvt-weyRH-l61TaqDd7ligHraLb3G&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1KoYjQ7</a><br /><br />The conclusion to the New York Times bestselling romance that began in Phenomenal X, about one woman’s pulse-pounding relationship with a notorious bad-boy wrestler.<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br /><br />“What’ll it be, Anna Cortez? Are you in, or are you out?”<br /><br />One momentary loss of control has now ruined everything Xavier Cold had going for himself. With his world unraveling fast, he’s willing to do anything to save not only his job but his relationship with the only woman he’s ever loved.<br /><br />Anna Cortez, still reeling from shock, tries desperately to save the man that’s consumed her heart, body and soul. She’ll have to dig deep and find courage she never knew she possessed to help Xavier fight demons from his past—a past that’s even more haunted than she ever imagined.<br /><br />Jan 20th 2016 release date:<br /><br />Amazon Pre-order: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1KoYjQ7&h=aAQE1mngU&enc=AZMBNB5-m9EzjfWahoXVkUaF9uFQo6uMQcXWjxAlznmpZ-gpW6SoDNZwqTB5Z7RxYTCyOKyRqQg0K3LeLTFzRNW2PlNBeBTOCsjB2SX_-Vl_M5pyjwmkwwivO1lXBnHpbONNdwIeyUAsKrt2D61t4ZSn&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1KoYjQ7</a><br /><br />Find book one, Phenomenal X here:<br />Amazon US: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1G9Wcou&h=FAQGEWmjY&enc=AZMLZllmi8zTKkl5CXGGD2wEd6osMtOmBq1lTCfhovmgR1b8cFREDEMpDduLfmhpr5DtHkiAguMxIvd4iw5drQMqzSYRlh1-36dcy9xZeSMggJaAE-krQJACRau996hvLjrPmE-2osyJsTwVPK7Efw7P&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1G9Wcou</a><br />Amazon UK: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FNXj890&h=hAQFMKQPU&enc=AZM1_IYUuFrTpJ76EwjtFqeiFF9lVJRz3DdJ3Hc97ycyfZ3hLpQHiIbpmS6juA5wB6CHnKbtu2N-7LrqJNAcO7RrCefYY3Mp1CyFpmNYH1K2a9zF2G3lhZ9uJSaBCVunqpqSOCnXNNx7OBzL447OqkII&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/NXj890</a><br />iBooks: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FamNppQ&h=PAQE_rVLv&enc=AZP7mEGx4sTjr06abNFvNETvEzvxda_PWFAMJjkz-JEz_tIPOjx_fYcijkkKdnI850H4jcjiU9OlQ317dUSOOOGpDRWNoCjxBXLZ0ITVAn0ZtOZNmtqpfZtLKdbA0VIYHdCQBRYtlLQydZtOqq3YeiTe&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/amNppQ</a><br />B&N: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0UdPxw&h=6AQE52jzI&enc=AZPM2deDWMiXweg2WimUo9tM6UhFLYU978x1pScGFAYZD3WpcKXHEvf9Ft-hRF4pHx8TTHyxde9PmBkzi-lyq_MHTduGqRjMR1NtbczQ4QIsPmv0w6eURN6NP3tNYucjrsdEBB4SYuJ8VYLuZ2GWuQb5&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0UdPxw</a><br />Google Books: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F2Buv9b&h=mAQGli6MA&enc=AZNDNjRWg2aYhwgbE_eILCyOeh1-wk2hGoWVJRWfxnrfiBLNPLNyoXJfkb6q1RfC2jMsFi_7Loo_b2WYK2ahZM7zAkfP58CVTSLXW2nj3J-6vj3m5cjvvsOBkPPoyXide8-r7t9BqSw1eYY3qnR4BK_h&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/2Buv9b</a><br /><br />Xavier Cold Coming Soon! Add it to your Goodreads:<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22566287-xavier-cold" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span>https://www.goodreads.com/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span><span>book/show/</span><wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>22566287-xavier-cold</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfK56eg1aZNRr8jIjPlucXs0gNqs6zCL27FUY9FCmiyp7OCJkNUQYPrF-yoFl6n1Y03LlcTWq4JYTvymOAF5bzQPCDZwcPPAnhaSWbJWjEtX0m81uepTYMym8ktNGADjLJTYjqEndbE0/s1600/PhenomX6x9-3+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfK56eg1aZNRr8jIjPlucXs0gNqs6zCL27FUY9FCmiyp7OCJkNUQYPrF-yoFl6n1Y03LlcTWq4JYTvymOAF5bzQPCDZwcPPAnhaSWbJWjEtX0m81uepTYMym8ktNGADjLJTYjqEndbE0/s320/PhenomX6x9-3+%25282%2529.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26GRpE-rlA5onqF0BAB00JboMAYWiec9yoAeKAOyb_OKF_3Ha6nag5RwHWZE8ktYQbMMcNySRLuGLcIdSJauAxQ-5QQgrs30_FQgnoYoPpFqoGxzDOzdORPkaC11kxNMJSpk9dsBotAY/s1600/1601548_558120267678229_3089989573333117970_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26GRpE-rlA5onqF0BAB00JboMAYWiec9yoAeKAOyb_OKF_3Ha6nag5RwHWZE8ktYQbMMcNySRLuGLcIdSJauAxQ-5QQgrs30_FQgnoYoPpFqoGxzDOzdORPkaC11kxNMJSpk9dsBotAY/s640/1601548_558120267678229_3089989573333117970_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-29008032865962157612015-12-09T19:50:00.000-05:002015-12-09T19:50:36.104-05:00Wish Granted: A Very Merry “X”-mas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVknjXV-ltP6GSWBukCIW7Jsov6NGIi0jAD-fLu4j4yF2whRQRQqUAbfI4pfKjuddxrMNONP8MZxRa9gQxnzUPAcrWKk5Y_ejCdsiSE5uzmMuaWKNTfACVztls8YLq_e8L7A1cVItasM/s1600/X+meet+Riff+Graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVknjXV-ltP6GSWBukCIW7Jsov6NGIi0jAD-fLu4j4yF2whRQRQqUAbfI4pfKjuddxrMNONP8MZxRa9gQxnzUPAcrWKk5Y_ejCdsiSE5uzmMuaWKNTfACVztls8YLq_e8L7A1cVItasM/s640/X+meet+Riff+Graphic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
Holiday
Reads Christmas Scene:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
Wish
Granted: A Very Merry “X”-mas<o:p></o:p></div>
<h1 align="center" style="background: #F4F4F4; line-height: 28.5pt; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By Michelle A. Valentine </span><strong><span style="color: #b3002d; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; letter-spacing: -.75pt;">©</span></strong><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: -.75pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The hallways of the children’s
hospital are alive with energy tonight as I walk hand-in-hand with Xavier
through them. He’s here by special invitation to grant a couple Christmas Eve
wishes for a few boys and girls who requested to meet him. My man dearly loves
his fans, but the kids who look up to Xavier really mean a lot to him. He
always makes time for them. But tonight, according to the information his
manager, Jimmy, gave him, he’s not the only celebrity gracing the hallways of
the this medical facility, which is why there’s so much fuss with triple
security everywhere the eye can see. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“It’s right this way, X,” Jimmy
says as he double checks the paperwork in front of him. “Room
three-oh-three—Austin Mills—age eight.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier nods and worries his lower
lip between his teeth as we round the corner and head into the oncology ward.
For being the biggest, scariest looking man I’ve ever known, when it comes to
children, he has a kind heart. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I give his hand a little squeeze
just like I always do when I need to let him know that I’m here for him without
saying a word. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
He stares down at me, and my gaze
locks onto his light blue eyes as one corner of his mouth turns up into a sad
smile. “I’m glad you’re here, Anna. I hate seeing kids sick like this, and it
takes a lot out of me when I do. Fucking cancer is an evil bitch with no mercy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I’m right there with him on that
one. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“A cure can’t come soon enough,
especially for these little guys. It’s unfair, and they shouldn’t have to go
through this,” I say.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“I wish there was more that I could
do for them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I place my free hand on his tattoo-covered
forearm. “You being here…that brightens their day. I’ve seen the way you are
with kids. They are in awe of you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“You know how I feel about that
role model thing. I’m not the kind of person they should look up to.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I raise one eyebrow. “And you know
that I completely disagree with you on that—no matter what kind of shitty
things you’ve done in your past. These kids don’t care about that at all. To
them—you’re like Superman—real hero material, so stop beating yourself up over
things you cannot change and focus on all the good you’ve done since you
overcame your past.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
He leans in and kisses my lips.
“You believe in me far too much, beautiful.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I smile at him. “It’s not hard to
have faith in someone who has an unbelievable heart.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
We round another corner and finally
make it to Austin’s room. I let go of Xavier’s hand and nod toward the room.
“Get in there and make that kid’s day.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier’s lips curve into a wicked
smile as he leans in and whisper’s into my ear. “Tonight I plan on making <i>your</i> day.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I giggle and then kiss his lips.
“I’ll hold you to that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
He winks at me while wearing a sly
smirk and then dips through the doorframe into Austin’s room. I hover around
just outside the door to watch Xavier in action. His tall frame paired with his
broad shoulders seems even more intimidating when he steps up beside the bed in
the room. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier’s muscles work beneath the
white button-down shirt he has on—completely straining against his impressive
biceps as he stretches his hand out to the boy in the bed. “Hi Austin. I’m X.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The child smiles as he shakes
Xavier’s hand. “You know my name? Mom!” Austin whips his head in his mother’s
direction who is sitting in a chair in the corner of the room. “He knows my
name!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“I heard.” His mother grins, and I
can tell she’s doing her best to appear upbeat, but she fails to hide how truly
tired she is in her eyes. My heart breaks for her. She tucks her dark brown
hair behind her ear and then blots away the tears streaking down her face. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Jimmy passes a baseball hat to Xavier
with his stage name, Phenomenal X, pasted across the front. Xavier pulls a Sharpie
out of his back pocket and scrawls his name overtop his photo on the hat before
he hands it to the boy. “Here you go, little man.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Wow…” Austin’s face lights up like
he’s just been given the greatest gift on earth. He studies the signature for a
moment before slapping the cap onto his head, completely covering his bald
scalp. “Thank you so much.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“You’re welcome, champ.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Austin quickly shakes his head.
“I’m no champ, but <i>you</i> are. I can’t
wait until you win that belt. It’ll look great around your waist. You are going
to get the belt, right?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
That earns a chuckle from Xavier.
“I hope so. Brian “Razor” Rollins is pretty tough and will be really hard for
me to beat.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
He waves his hand dismissively.
“You’ll beat him no problem. I know you will. Are you worried about Assassin
coming after you when you win the title?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The mere mention of Rex’s stage
name is enough to make my skin crawl. That man is the pariah of the wrestling
world as far as I’m concerned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“I’ll let you in on a little
something.” Xavier leans in a bit toward Austin. “Assassin is the biggest chicken
I’ve ever met, so I don’t think beating him will be a problem at all.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I cover mouth with my hand to hold
back the smile as my man talks a bit of trash about his nemesis at <i>Tension</i>. Rex better be prepared when the
moment does come that he has to face Xavier. Xavier has been itching to get his
hands on Rex, and when the moment finally does come, I suspect there will be
one hell of a show. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier takes a few pictures with
Austin and spends close to an hour with the boy before Jimmy advises him that
it’s time to meet with the next child who has requested to meet wrestling’s
resident bad-boy, Phenomenal X. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“All right, buddy. Looks like it’s time for me
to go. Anything I can do for you while I’m here?” Xavier asks the boy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Austin stares up at him with hope
in his eyes. “Can I have a hug?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Without hesitation Xavier leans
down and wraps arms around the kid, paying close attention to not put any
tension on all the IV and oxygen tubing that’s attached to Austin. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Warmth fills me at the sight. I
wish Xavier could see what I see when I look at him. He’s always so down on
himself and convinced he’s not worth all the love and support he receives from
his fans. In moments like this, when his walls come down and he exposes the
side of himself that’s caring, I know he deserves all the praise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier pulls away and smiles. “Take
care of yourself, and never stop fighting.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“I’ll be like you, X. I’ll never
give up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Tears sting at my eyes as I witness
the true meaning of bravery and strength from this little boy. More than
anything I wish I could reach inside his frail body and rip out every inch of
cancer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“See you around, champ.” Xavier
holds out his fist and Austin pounds his into it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
When Xavier turns away from the bed and heads
my direction, I can see that he’s fighting to keep his emotions in check. Tears
fill his eyes but then quickly bats them away as he wraps his arm around me and
leads me down the hallway. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I press myself against his side. He
isn’t one to talk about his emotions, so I don’t dare push him to talk about
what he’s feeling. The things I’ve learned about his childhood so far breaks my
heart, and I’m glad he’s opened up to me as much as he has. One day, when he’s
ready, I hope that he lets me in about everything that’s happened to him in his
past. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
For the next three hours Xavier
repeats the scene that occurred in Austin’s room with three other children who
have requested to meet him. He does an excellent job of showing each and every
kid he meets how much he cares about them. He chats with them, and even plays a
game of checkers with one. The few stories I’ve heard about from when he was a
child are completely heartbreaking. He had it rough, and knows what it’s like
to struggle as a kid, which is why I believe he loves giving back to his kid
fans. Anyone who has ever seen him in action can tell it’s his most favorite
part of his job. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Last stop,” Jimmy says as we round
the corner, heading to the last room on his list. “Jenny Stump—age fourteen.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“A girl? That’s cool,” I say. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“I brought her a little something
other than a hat.” Jimmy hands him a t-shirt and a pair of Phenomenal X
inspired sunglasses. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier flings the shirt over his
shoulder and wraps his large fingers around the glasses. “Is she a cancer
patient too?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Jimmy nods. “Afraid so. It’s heartbreaking.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
We stop in front of the door and
Xavier heads on in. It’s different from all the other rooms he’s been in. The
child already has a visitor in her room. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
A rather tall man who is only about
an inch or two shorter than Xavier stands beside the bed. His hair is shaped
into a funky black and blonde stripped Mohawk and he has a lip piercing, not to
mention several other piercings in his ears. The clothes he has on screams rock
and roll with his torn blue jeans and tight black T-shirt. Like Xavier, this
guy’s arms are covered in intricate tattoos, giving him that bad-boy
appearance. He’s super hot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The man notices Xavier step into
the room and his eyes widen. “Holy shit! You’re Phenomenal X!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Riff, language.” A sassy-looking
redhead scolds the man and then smacks his arm. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff grimaces as he stares down at
Jenny who is sitting up straight as a stick in her bed. “Sorry about that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Jenny waves her hand dismissively.
“Don’t worry. I listen to your music. I’m not offended by cursing.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff chuckles. “Touché, kid.” He
then turns his attention to Xavier. “We’ve never met, but I’m a huge fan. Your
finishing move kicks ass. I’ve been watching wrestling since I was a little kid,
and you remind me of some of the greats that made <i>Tension</i> so famous. I’m Riff, lead guitarist for Black Falcon.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“The hard-rock band? I know your
music. I work out to some of your tracks.” Xavier walks over beside Riff and
greats him with one of those weird guy handshake hug things. “Call me X.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Wow,” Jenny says in awe as she
stares up at two of the biggest guys I’ve ever seen. “I can’t believe you’re
both here in my room. It’s like a Christmas miracle.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Sweetheart, I’d hardly call us
that,” Riff says. “You—you’re the real miracle in this room.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
And just like that Xavier and Riff
find common ground in making Jenny’s Christmas wish special. Both men dote on
her, taking their time to talk with her to find out about her interests. It’s
amazing how these hugely successful men can turn into putty in one little
girl’s hands. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
After Xavier gives Jenny her
presents, he hugs her one final time. “It was awesome to meet you. Let me know
if you want to go to one of the shows when you feel up to it. I’ll make sure
that happens.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Same goes for any of the Black
Falcon shows,” Riff adds. “We’ll get you backstage and you can meet the rest of
the guys.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“That would be so amazing. I can’t
wait to tell all of my friends about this.” The giddy expression on her face is
priceless. “They’ll be so jealous that I have two of the hottest guys in the
world in my room.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff’s lips turn up into a cocky
grin. “You’ll get no argument from me on that. I am pretty.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The redhead that’s been next to
Riff the whole time laughs. “Jenny, please don’t encourage him. If his head
gets any bigger he won’t be able to fit through the door when we get home.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Jenny stares up at the woman, still
wearing a dreamy expression. “You are so lucky to be married to him, Aubrey.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff throws his arm around Aubrey’s
shoulders. “Hear that, Kitten. Consider yourself one lucky lady.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Aubrey shakes her head. “You are
absolutely too much.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“But you love me anyway.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“That I do.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff whips his head toward Xavier.
“X, it was great meeting you. If you ever want to come to a show, let me know.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Xavier nods. “Thanks, man. Same
goes for <i>Tension</i>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Riff grins. “I will definitely take
you up on that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Both men come out of Jenny’s room
and then Riff heads down the hallway with his arm around Aubrey. I have to
admit, I’ve never heard of Black Falcon before, but then again living with my
father didn’t expose me to much more than contemporary Christian music. I’ll
have to look his band up because Riff is such a nice guy that I want to support
his work. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Ready, beautiful?” Xavier asks as
he threads his fingers through mine. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t think I’ll ever get tired
of this man. Not only am I insanely attracted to him, but I’m completely
captivated by what’s on the inside of him too—his mind and his heart. He
doesn’t give himself enough credit for being an amazing person, but as long as
I’m around I plan on making sure he realizes how special he is to me every day.
Xavier might’ve been busy granting wishes all evening long, but tonight I
realize the love that we share for one another is all I’ll ever need this
Christmas. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Phenomenal X:</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Amazon US: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1G9Wcou&h=DAQGq5P3t&enc=AZOHujaGrkOIlNkFOMQjDYy9jnOiae2I4SgRvuiSqb4JoBQ6NplGXWvQkBkWrao6w3XnY_DoQ47GCQHV32OtwC7tcBhqo0s-yBwn1nRtE_KqYxIqV_6FMV4ir9sfBSqDrKfVNRR9dUsHecACar4BLs4n&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1G9Wcou</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FNXj890&h=RAQEDEd-2&enc=AZN4BL3U2QCV1w16wXI7BnQ_6G_uluVShMNVzL_7Oj0xVShfb28LPvDJjgJ6sj4w7yhH0A7OnFZ73aCYPLqpXYqiQKv8Oj6QO0eAEDIS3ib1FxPYuPaaW4-SkuGVkV21I4e8swUj79vkqKkUCu1oyZZR&s=1" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/NXj890</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">iBooks: </span><a href="https://goo.gl/amNppQ" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/amNppQ</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">B&N: </span><a href="http://goo.gl/0UdPxw" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0UdPxw</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Google Books: </span><a href="https://goo.gl/2Buv9b" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/2Buv9b</a><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rock My Bed:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Amazon US: <a href="http://amzn.to/21Qhjnd">http://amzn.to/21Qhjnd</a><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-41598526183661832015-12-09T19:38:00.000-05:002015-12-09T19:41:55.372-05:00WICKED REUNION <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19.32px;">Releases Dec 15th!!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19.32px;">New Stand alone!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19.32px;">No cliff hanger!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h2>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 19.32px;">Wicked Reunion by Michelle A. Valentine</span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Order Here!! Amazon:</span><a href="http://amzn.to/1NHaYjn" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1NHaYjn</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjO-N7BLFbIPHH4OHBWdDCU3NZmfW7LFDuFqNLABExlGc7oBn6KWi5FU8ywjauITOyCcGwbpN0pNnHgOuwX9s7GfpTi1IqiuFK0MNj9ptMHN2ZClBkh79HOFAT8ql4emddHfCRVMAyFo/s1600/12003134_547305092093080_4085200102465491692_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCjO-N7BLFbIPHH4OHBWdDCU3NZmfW7LFDuFqNLABExlGc7oBn6KWi5FU8ywjauITOyCcGwbpN0pNnHgOuwX9s7GfpTi1IqiuFK0MNj9ptMHN2ZClBkh79HOFAT8ql4emddHfCRVMAyFo/s400/12003134_547305092093080_4085200102465491692_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u>Synopsis</u></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; margin-bottom: 14px; padding: 0px;">
College sweethearts London Uphill and Jared Kraft were inseparable. He was a rising baseball star with a promising future, and she seemed destined to become “Mrs. Kraft.” Then a tragic night and a series of devastating mistakes caused Jared to walk away from his life, leaving London without any explanation and tearing the couple apart.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; margin-bottom: 14px; margin-top: -4px; padding: 0px;">
Five years later, Jared has reinvented himself by putting down the bat and picking up a guitar to play for the red-hot band Wicked White. In all that time, London hasn’t gotten over her forever love—or the pain—despite seeking solace in the arms of the one man no one dreamed she’d run to.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.4px; margin-top: -4px; padding: 0px;">
When Wicked White’s lead singer goes MIA, Jared finds the time—and courage—to return to his hometown and face the mess he made. He’s shocked at how London’s life has changed, yet he’s determined to prove their love is worth fighting for. Is this breakup too big for any hope of a reunion tour? Or can London open her heart to Jared once again?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWENdpP8x8K8O3Vky1kMfwGWoIEN0S-UcN90dr9LiYOHufxczHkcNlF5ZTdjHSkdZP0uRFCoMCGDlRpZyWxZARb6A3zVs3R4pKNDXCgINGznDsCRBGPTF2fHEfY8anwZ0IZhRd9J7c-VI/s1600/MVWickedReunionTEASERS4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWENdpP8x8K8O3Vky1kMfwGWoIEN0S-UcN90dr9LiYOHufxczHkcNlF5ZTdjHSkdZP0uRFCoMCGDlRpZyWxZARb6A3zVs3R4pKNDXCgINGznDsCRBGPTF2fHEfY8anwZ0IZhRd9J7c-VI/s640/MVWickedReunionTEASERS4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgv_sWbA1tmbERotRdtCZrUEaL78WoAUGHqS1oyRpxnPpUxHbjJXl64ndH3Cvgc5JZf7wATn8rIaN3cTbZ6gAm3yM7ThizlUZdeiKZl9OoayE8favhjHVBbXSs78kEj0dZi8AdhOoBKM/s1600/MVWickedReunionTEASERS3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgv_sWbA1tmbERotRdtCZrUEaL78WoAUGHqS1oyRpxnPpUxHbjJXl64ndH3Cvgc5JZf7wATn8rIaN3cTbZ6gAm3yM7ThizlUZdeiKZl9OoayE8favhjHVBbXSs78kEj0dZi8AdhOoBKM/s640/MVWickedReunionTEASERS3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BhQETXcbEEtK0HueuzcY_nomP55HhZgcaaEIzkF7_VJinfKdHlopwceiGdVmdR5r_AA4Tkr27eGCFO7o3L4bKXDd1t4yu_t_77U7Af2vufrpEtxbXJBUJSQlvWoFF5nhFSaQvJN5tEk/s1600/MVWickedReunionTEASERS2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9BhQETXcbEEtK0HueuzcY_nomP55HhZgcaaEIzkF7_VJinfKdHlopwceiGdVmdR5r_AA4Tkr27eGCFO7o3L4bKXDd1t4yu_t_77U7Af2vufrpEtxbXJBUJSQlvWoFF5nhFSaQvJN5tEk/s640/MVWickedReunionTEASERS2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimM0z-sv3ikLCiWWTIB3s4GeD3OISw_A3cPxpXT_3qkluql1PuaTGCtgyBxtGMyDoPYwi4uQrGh6VlhWr-VqAy-1ghIWX30KiNl5r6Dcy_bpHt8oMOrVbrg2vJJa0WlIV9wdVxEaEOhw/s1600/MVWickedReunionTEASERS1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimM0z-sv3ikLCiWWTIB3s4GeD3OISw_A3cPxpXT_3qkluql1PuaTGCtgyBxtGMyDoPYwi4uQrGh6VlhWr-VqAy-1ghIWX30KiNl5r6Dcy_bpHt8oMOrVbrg2vJJa0WlIV9wdVxEaEOhw/s640/MVWickedReunionTEASERS1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-82793802535959349032015-12-09T19:05:00.000-05:002015-12-09T19:30:13.585-05:00Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two) Chapter One<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:260.25pt;
height:260.25pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\Owner\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image001.png"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMfbOHNkhTU-rPKB7lM4Mafq1FA4Iy5CKweKPrbdPW-E57qvExi4BlMGKcOAB4K-l9Af2tPXK9m0GTwTGepkJ3ZnzYpvkLcgrPAgt12ydEohZJsI7g4Kcso1q2W7hhGnl6t3zd9_bGso/s1600/25135611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMfbOHNkhTU-rPKB7lM4Mafq1FA4Iy5CKweKPrbdPW-E57qvExi4BlMGKcOAB4K-l9Af2tPXK9m0GTwTGepkJ3ZnzYpvkLcgrPAgt12ydEohZJsI7g4Kcso1q2W7hhGnl6t3zd9_bGso/s320/25135611.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv1As4kUZFI5bvnhJUHaBo9MZTBa18mTQGt-4jIg1B8RKLkEBW8-Wq0k5EE5HcKjm2YAg_mxkEdkXCJIibNpjby0UgicXSRaGf9AhXIN2m05DslNGQvo81qfkDzejgx6xO1fC_k-rJfhs/s1600/Feisty+Princess+Title.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv1As4kUZFI5bvnhJUHaBo9MZTBa18mTQGt-4jIg1B8RKLkEBW8-Wq0k5EE5HcKjm2YAg_mxkEdkXCJIibNpjby0UgicXSRaGf9AhXIN2m05DslNGQvo81qfkDzejgx6xO1fC_k-rJfhs/s320/Feisty+Princess+Title.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m fucked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Royally.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She tempted
me—screwed with my head—and gained the upper hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She’s the enemy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I can’t forget
that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My weakness
jeopardized my company.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The Feisty
Princess of Manhattan will not win this <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>war.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
No matter how
fantastic her lips felt around my cock.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "georgia";">**Book Two in a Three
Part Erotic Romance Series**</span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "georgia";"><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">Super Naughty New Series from <i>NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY</i> Bestselling
Author Michelle A. Valentine (Rock the Heart, Phenomenal X, Demon at My Door). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "georgia";">Part One: <i>Naughty King</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "georgia";">Part Two: <i>Feisty Princess</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="background: white; color: #181818; font-family: "georgia";">Part Three: <i>Dirty Royals</i> (Coming Soon)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<o:p> </o:p><span style="font-family: "arial"; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">Copyright © 2015 by Michelle A. Valentine
Books, LLC</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; tab-stops: 9.0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; tab-stops: 9.0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5HnfxlcChvD20v7UbmC8sKLUlBRECsUQ6sdfcgnhkm_7AfrcNdYlhqaXDgujOxU_lnns-RIh8eZ8D4AJI-lrOxKiLHF_B9etzY8ReVAzvhTzANGW4sgegeNkr6IZbHffTyZSyATYhBc/s1600/Chapter+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5HnfxlcChvD20v7UbmC8sKLUlBRECsUQ6sdfcgnhkm_7AfrcNdYlhqaXDgujOxU_lnns-RIh8eZ8D4AJI-lrOxKiLHF_B9etzY8ReVAzvhTzANGW4sgegeNkr6IZbHffTyZSyATYhBc/s320/Chapter+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">I </span>stare at the wedding photo in absolute horror.</b><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> “Oh, my God.
Yamada was a witness? And is he wearing—” I lean in and take a closer </span><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">look</span><span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;"> “—an Elvis costume?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander leans
over my shoulder while I sit at the
island in the kitchen of our suite, his spicy scent wafting around me as he
gets a better view. “Shit.” He pushes himself back upright and straightens the
dark blue tie he’s wearing. Even in a dress shirt, the man makes my mouth
water.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I gaze up to see a
pair of gray eyes trained on me. “Please
tell me this is all a sick joke. Please tell me that we aren’t really married.”
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“No joke, Dime
Piece,” Yamada says as he walks into the common area of the suite with a set of
brunette twins wearing matching schoolgirl outfits—one under each arm. “Yamada
was there, and it was the dopest wedding ever! Wasn’t it, ladies?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The two women
giggle and nod in agreement. One even runs her finger suggestively over
Yamada’s scrawny bare chest beneath the silk robe he’s still wearing. “Whatever
you say, baby,” the woman purrs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Yamada grabs the
woman’s hand. “No touching in front of Dime Piece. Might make her jealous. Poor
girl will never get a taste of a night with Yamada since she’s married to King
now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The woman jerks
her gaze to me, and I swear to God she hisses at me. I raise my eyebrows, and
Alexander shakes his head. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“We need to talk
about what happened last night, Yamada,” Alexander tells him and then adds, “<i>Alone</i>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Okay,” Yamada
says and then gives each of his companions a kiss on the cheek. “Time to go,
lovelies.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“But we want to
play with Yamada some more,” one of the girls whines
in a voice that mimics a toddler as Yamada turns them both toward the
door. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He opens the door
and ushers the girls out, patting each
one on the butt as they pass him. “Sorry, but Yamada’s a man in demand. Bye
girls.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Yamada . . .” the
girls’ voice cuts off as he shuts the door in their faces. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He turns and gives
us a mischievous grin. “Bitches love Yamada.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander rolls
his eyes. “I have no idea why.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Don’t be a
hater.” Yamada struts into the kitchen and opens the door on the stocked
refrigerator, reaching in for a bottle of juice. He twists the cap off his
apple juice and then halts when he turns to take in the expression on
Alexander’s face. “Why are you not the happiest madafaka
on the planet right now? You’re married to the hottest chick Yamada has ever
seen. What’s there not to be happy about?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander folds
his arms over his chest. “This isn’t funny. What the hell happened last night?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Yamada swallows
and then shrugs. “We were all having fun. The two of you were fucked-up and
when we passed a wedding chapel . . .”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“And let me guess.
You convinced us in our drunken state that it would be so much fun,” Alexander
finishes for him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Yamada’s face
pulls into a lopsided grin. “You didn’t take much convincing.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Before Alexander
has a chance to respond, the front door pops open and the same bodyguard with
the braids who walked me up to Yamada’s party last night sticks his head
through the door. “Sorry to disturb you, Mr. Yamada, but we have a situation.
The women you escorted out are sitting in front of the elevator demanding to
speak with you about when they can see you again. Would you like us to
physically remove them from the property, sir?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Let me talk to
them.” Yamada shakes his head, muttering as he heads toward the door. “This
happens every time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Yamada . .
.”Alexander calls after his friend but
gets no response as the door closes us alone in the suite.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander turns around and rests his back
against the counter in the kitchen area of our suite. The material of his
pressed shirt strains against his bicep as he lifts his hand to pinch the
bridge of his nose while he squeezes his eyes shut. “I can’t believe I allowed
you to con me into this. How could I be so careless?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
This causes me to
jerk my eyebrows up as my eyes widen. “Me? You actually think I <i>want</i> to be married to you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
His eyes snap
open. He holds up his left hand that’s still bearing
a wedding ring and points to it. “Obviously, you do. You don’t honestly expect me
to believe that Yamada came up with that shit by himself. He had to get the
idea from somewhere.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Excuse me.” I
lift my hand to interrupt. This man is completely out of his ever-lovin’ mind if he believes that. “Being married
to you is the last thing on my wish list. Why would I ever subject myself to
something like that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander releases
a bitter laugh. “Right. I know you’re smarter than that, Margo, so cut the
act.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My mouth falls
open. “What <i>act</i>? My thorough disgust
at the thought of being your wife isn’t for show—that I can assure you. My disdain
for you is quite real.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He stares at me
through narrowed eyes. “I’m sure you’d like me to believe that, but Princess,
I’m on to your game. Once Jack figures out if we’re legally married, I’ll have
him slap you with an annulment so fast it’ll make your head spin. When I told
you to marry some schmuck for money, I didn’t mean me!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The moment those
words leave his mouth, things begin clicking into place. My hungover brain
obviously isn’t quick enough this morning to figure out that if, in fact, we are married, it means there was no
time for any pesky contracts like a prenuptial agreement. Alexander King is
screwed, and he knows it. He’s now at my mercy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Oh, how the tables have turned. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Since he paints me
to be the evil mastermind of this plot, I might as well go along with it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lick my lips and
peer into the beautiful eyes of the man I love to hate. “I must say, Alexander,
this new development changes things drastically between us. Don’t you think?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“This changes
nothing,” he growls. “This marriage is a mistake. No judge in the world will
award you shit if you press the issue. Besides, we don’t even know if the
marriage is legal.” He snatches the picture of the so-called wedding off the
table and panic rolls through his voice. “A minister wearing a fucking Kiss
costume can’t be a legitimate man of the cloth capable of marrying people
legally, right?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
While I have to
agree with him on that, there’s no way I’m about to let Alexander know that I’m
having a hard time believing this whole thing is legit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Maybe you’re
right . . .” I tilt my head. “And maybe you’re wrong. Are you willing to take a
chance and find out? If our marriage is legally binding, I won’t let you off
easy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
There’s a long
pause of silence between us, and I can tell the wheels are spinning inside that
brain of his, He’s trying to figure a way out of this situation.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“What will it take
for you to walk away from this quietly?” Alexander’s nostrils flare, and I
can’t help smiling. Pissing him off is my new favorite pastime.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I turn on the
bar stool that I’m occupying and cross my legs in the direction that Alexander
is standing. It’s finally nice to feel like the one in control of this
situation. For a while there, I felt like trying to save Buchanan Industries
was a lost cause, but now things have definitely changed in my favor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You know exactly
what I want,” I tell him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He raises his
eyebrow. “Forget it. I have too much riding on this Buchanan deal. I’ll take my
chances with Jack eating you alive in court.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Suit yourself. Everything that went on here
this weekend will prove that you were a willing participant. Besides, your
college buddy was your best man. Yamada wouldn’t let someone coerce you into
something that you weren’t willing to do. I’m sure it won’t be too hard to
convince a judge to see things my way.”
I shrug and then push myself off the bar stool. “I think I’ll go ahead
and start with a call to our family attorney. I’ll have to start planning how I
want to spend my new-found fortune of half your money.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I don’t know what
planet you’re living on, Margo, but that isn’t going to happen.” His gray eyes harden. “You can’t afford to take me
on.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“What’s yours is
mine, darling. So it seems to me like I can, thanks
to your sprawling wealth.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
His nostrils
flare. “You are such a bitch. I can’t believe for one moment that I—” He
quickly cuts himself off and clenches his hands into fists by his sides. “Pack
your shit. We’re going back to <st1:state w:st="on">New
York</st1:state>. Now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I fold my arms
over my chest. “You can’t tell me what to do.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Alexander smirks.
“Being your husband earns me that right. Now pack.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I open my mouth to
tell him to take his orders and shove them right up his bossy ass, but before I
have a chance, he turns and walks toward his room, slamming the door behind
him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The second I’m
sure that I’m alone, I drop my head and rub my forehead to try to soothe the
pounding headache that’s still raging inside. How the hell could I allow
myself to get this out of control last night? I have so much riding on saving
the family business. Being married to Alexander might fuck everything up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">READ THE REST HERE:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two):</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Amazon: <a href="http://amzn.to/1jmnhKX" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1jmnhKX</a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Amazon UK: <a href="http://goo.gl/7f4F8A" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/7f4F8A</a></div>
</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter">
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0">
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1">
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1">
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth">
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0">
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight">
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0">
</v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas>
<v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f">
<o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit">
</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" style="height: 260.25pt; width: 260.25pt;" type="#_x0000_t75">
<v:imagedata o:title="" src="file:///C:\Users\Owner\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image001.png"></v:imagedata></v:shape></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-13828607481810994902015-06-23T12:01:00.002-04:002015-06-23T12:02:41.889-04:00Wicked White Chapter 1<div style="text-align: center;">
First Chapter intro peek for Wicked White!
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezXUxZUxnWyGvx92RmY_CgiVCOa61wH41aebcUgNhubA1K3zwNd9Picq6MDqbOv8YRH3d2o-TTiNCrxmoIb2-XVyWbjQYKn8c-lCB-waglq4eQv4YskpB5Owhmch5OKV_ZIaRCMeQ6vU/s1600/WickedFACEBOOK+%25282%2529+PNG.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezXUxZUxnWyGvx92RmY_CgiVCOa61wH41aebcUgNhubA1K3zwNd9Picq6MDqbOv8YRH3d2o-TTiNCrxmoIb2-XVyWbjQYKn8c-lCB-waglq4eQv4YskpB5Owhmch5OKV_ZIaRCMeQ6vU/s320/WickedFACEBOOK+%25282%2529+PNG.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Chapter 1 </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>Ace </i></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>his place is a fucking circus. Sure, on the outside it may appear to be a well-oiled machine, but to someone who lives it every day, the music business is a crazy ride.
My band is headlining Summerfest tonight. One of the biggest music festivals in America, held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for eleven straight days. It’s pure insanity here.
I sit on display like a monkey in a cage under a white-topped tent in the blazing ninety-degree weather while a line of fans as far as the eye can see wait to get my signature. I’ll give the fans one thing—they’re dedicated, because this heat is miserable.
Jane Ann, my road manager, hovers behind me as the fans come through one by one to get their thirty seconds with me while I sign whatever crap they just bought from the merchandise booth with my band’s name on it, Wicked White. I hate it when she does that—monitors my behavior. It’s times like these when she’s a thorn in my side. If she wasn’t so damn good at her job, and the reason the band gained the notoriety it has, I’d tell her to take a hike.
“Ohmygod! Ace, I love you,” the busty blond wearing a too-tight tank top squeals as she approaches my table. “Will you sign my chest?”
I fight the urge hard to not roll my eyes at this chick. This is the part of my job that I absolutely loathe—signing another human being’s skin. Most of these women have no shame and will flop their tit out on a dime for the thrill of me touching it with a Sharpie. It kills me that I can’t refuse. Jane Ann has made it perfectly clear to me what my role is as a rock star—I’m to smile and sign whatever they ask me to.
“Never refuse a fan. The media is everywhere. One negative video posted to the Internet can ruin your career and the brand we’ve worked so hard to create for Wicked White,” Jane Ann told me last time I complained.
As much as it pains me, I smile at the blond and wave her in closer. “Sure, babe. Just point to the spot.”
The woman giggles and her friends shove her forward, almost daring her to approach me. She grabs the front of her shirt and yanks one side down along with her bra, far enough that half of her nipple is exposed. She runs a finger slowly over the mounded flesh and licks her lips. “Right here.”
I know it’s an act of seduction, and on most men I’m sure this would get the girl noticed, possibly gaining her backstage entrance from a horny motherfucker looking to score with a groupie. That shit don’t work on me, though. I want a nice girl. Someone who I could take home to a mother—if I had one.
The groupie sighs happily as I etch my name with a black Sharpie across her warm skin. It’s completely illegible, but that’s irrelevant considering she’ll more than likely sweat it off before the day’s end.
The rest of her friends, following suit, have me sign their bodies in different places as well.
“After these three, wrap it up. We’ve got to get Ace backstage,” Jane Ann tells the guy in the yellow security shirt standing next to my table.
Great. Nothing like pissing off a couple hundred fans after they stood in line for an hour to meet me.
Jane Ann needs to implement the ticket idea that I suggested earlier this year, but I know she’ll never do it. Limiting tickets limits merch sales, and there’s no way she won’t squeeze out every penny that she can, so that’s out.
After I finish with the last woman, the guard says, “All right, folks, Ace has to go.”
A collective sound of boos flows through the air as I stand and turn away from the table. Jane Ann waits for me with her flaming red hair tossed casually over her shoulder. The bright red leather pants she’s wearing are about two sizes too small, and the low-cut blouse shows entirely too much skin, but that’s her normal, everyday gear. She threads her arm through mine and stares up at me with her blue eyes as she leads me out of the tent toward the backstage area. “The women are really starting to take notice of you, Ace. You’re well on your way to becoming a true sex symbol. Soon Ace White will be a household name.”
I shake my head, not caring a bit if the world knows the stage name the record label gave me. “I could give a shit about that. You know all I care about is the music. Speaking of . . . did you tell the label I plan on writing the songs for the next record?”
She sighs and rolls her eyes. “I did, Ace, but you know how the bigwigs are. They want to make sure the songs appeal to the mass market, so they want to bring in the same producers you worked with on the last album. Johnny Moses has some terrific songs picked out that really fit your voice.”
I pull back, halting her in place. “Hold up. You’ve heard the writer’s demos already and didn’t send them to me?”
“You’ve just been so busy making appearances that I figured you wouldn’t have time and would be happy with what I chose. Don’t you trust my judgment anymore?” She raises a perfectly manicured eyebrow. “Remember, it was me helping you change your style that took you to this new platform. This is the level we’ve been dying to get to.”
I shake my head, my dark hair falling into my eyes. “My music would’ve eventually gotten me there.”
She pats my chest as a look of pity crosses her face. “Keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better, but we both know it was me and the choices I made for you that pushed you to this level, not those sad little acoustic songs you sang to bar crowds of twenty people. This is the big leagues, kid. You’d do best not to throw a fit over something as simple as a song choice. You need to give the fans what they’ve grown to expect from you. They’re what bring in the money. Trust me.”
This should shock me, her treating me like a puppet on the string that she controls, but it doesn’t. It’s true that over the last two years since she discovered me, Jane Ann has morphed me into a million-dollar singer. Fronting a band that Mopar Records created should’ve been a dream job, but it’s not. I don’t get to sing any of the music that I enjoy singing—and writing? Forget it. The label won’t trust me with creative liberties one bit.
That’s what pisses me off the most.
I’m an artist. I don’t want to keep recreating someone else’s vision for my entire career. I want to be free to express myself and control my own success or failure by allowing the fans to hear my original songs, not ones I’m forced to sing.
But it’s been made very clear to me by Jane Ann time and time again that if I want to continue to have label backing, I have to play what they give me until the record label says otherwise.
I know she’s patronizing me, but if I don’t want to lose everything I’ve worked for, I have to go along.
For now.
“All right, but can I at least listen to the new songs I’ll be recording?” I ask, completely deflated.
A satisfied smile pours over her face. She’s clearly delighted I’m giving in. “Of course, darling. After tonight’s show I’ll play them for you.”
Once upon a time I believed this woman was actually my friend. But that was before the piles of cash were rolling in and I became her primary source of income. She told me our friendship didn’t have anything to do with money.
Having friends has never been one of my strong suits in my last twenty-six years, so I desperately wanted to believe that Jane Ann was someone I could actually trust. She seemed genuinely to have my best interests at heart regarding my music career when I first met her, but now I’m not so sure that she does.
It was lonely growing up as a foster child, bouncing from place to place—never really having a steady home. I never had time to make friends, not real ones anyway. That’s what led me to music. It was the one constant in my life. The one thing no one could ever take away from me. I spent most of my youth alone in my room, learning to play every instrument known to man. Focusing on something other than the fact that my real mother didn’t want me anymore seemed to keep me out of trouble.
I walk next to Jane Ann as we wind our way through the maze of roadies and stagehands working to get everything ready for Wicked White’s set. “Are the rest of the guys here?”
“Yes. Already warmed up and ready. They were waiting until you were done with your autograph session to go over tonight’s set list with you.”
“Good,” I say. “I hate when they’re late and we have to go round them up.”
“I’ve spoken with them about their tardiness and explained just because they were the best the studio could find for the job doesn’t mean they aren’t replaceable. Everyone is replaceable.”
Even me is what I’m dying to say, but know that she’d just laugh and yet deny it. Jane Ann is a label talent scout but has put that position on hold to be my tour manager since this is my first major tour and I have issues with trusting random strangers. Jane Ann also gets a percentage of all my money like an agent would. Last year alone Wicked White grossed over six million dollars from the tour, not counting any of the money made on music downloads and miscellaneous shit that got sold with the band name on it.
Wicked White is not a real band, but a product.
The cell in my back pocket buzzes with the alert of an incoming call, so I grab it and check the screen.
The name that flashes isn’t one that I’ve seen in a long time, but it’s always nice to hear from the one person that I actually care about.
I pull away from Jane Ann. “Excuse me. I have to take this.”
After I take a couple steps, I press the green button. “Hey, Mom. How are you?”
“Ace Johnson?” The deep voice on the other end is one that I don’t recognize. It puzzles me how this strange man knows my real name, and why is he calling from my foster mother’s home number?
“Yes. Do I know you?”
“No. I’m afraid not. I’m Officer Butler with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, and I’m afraid that I have some upsetting news. Ms. Sarah Johnson was found in her home unresponsive moments ago. She’s been transferred to Grant Medical Center in critical condition. As you’re listed as her son in her address book, we thought you would like to be notified.” His tone is very businesslike as he rattles off the specifics on where the hospital is located, but I’m barely registering what he’s saying.
I swallow hard as I’m faced with the hard reality that the one person in the world that gives a shit about me may not make it. I need to be with her. I have to get there. Now. “Thank you, Officer. I’m on my way.”
When I end the call, I stuff my phone into my back pocket and turn to find Jane Ann staring at me with narrowed eyes. “Where exactly are you on your way to?”
I square my shoulders. I know she’s not going to like what I have to say, but it doesn’t matter. Not Jane Ann, or anyone else for that matter, is going to stand in my way of getting to Mom. “My mother is sick. She needs me.”
I turn in the opposite direction of the stage, but Jane Ann is quick to follow on my heels. “You can’t leave now!”
“Watch me,” I say.
“Ace, wait!” Jane Ann grabs my arm and jumps in front of me to halt me from going any farther. “Let’s think reasonably. You’re on tour. There are fifteen thousand people out in that crowd tonight that have paid their hard-earned money to see you. Just go out and do the show, then we’ll talk about you driving to Ohio tonight. You can’t make the fans suffer. It will kill your career if you stand them up.”
I pinch the bridge of my nose. A huge part of me wants to tell her to fuck off and just go, but there’s a part that hates the idea of losing my career. I’ve worked so hard to get to where I’m at, so I’m torn.
After a few moments of debate, I sigh, deciding that I can just jet after our set. “Fine. Let’s get this show on the road.”
Jane Ann smiles, her white teeth sparkling, when she’s figured out that she’s gotten her way. “You’re making the right decision, Ace.”
Anger boils within me that I’m stuck here, unable to leave like I want for fear of what I’d lose.
Jane Ann hooks her arm through mine and leads me toward the stage again. Once we make it to where the rest of the guys in my band are standing around waiting to take the stage, they all glance up in my direction. The guys have on their standard 100 percent white stage attire, a corny gimmick Jane Ann thought would be good as our signature look on stage.
JJ’s blue eyes meet mine, and then he quickly glances in the opposite direction. He always looks pissed off. The dark hair and tan complexion he has just increase his menacing appearance. JJ Kraft, known as JJ White to the world—another ridiculous demand by the label for us to all use White as our last names on stage—is the lead guitarist for Wicked White, but that job isn’t the one he really wants. It’s been difficult becoming a cohesive unit with the guys in the band, namely because we never knew each other before the label slapped us all together and told us if we wanted a deal, we needed to get along and be professional. Money and fame are two things that are difficult for any band to struggle with once they come their way, but it’s even harder when you have no personal connection with one another.
JJ has always had his eye on my job. He wants to be the front man so bad he can taste it, and I guess having to follow my lead is enough to set him off every damn day. It’s like he’s just biding his time, waiting for me to screw up so he can jump in and take my spot.
“I’m glad all you guys are here on time,” Jane Ann addresses the band as we stand in a circle. “I see my little warning of imposing fines for tardiness has made a difference.”
“Not all of us have you as our personal fucking wristwatch,” Tyler, our drummer, answers snidely, a piece of his dirty-blond hair falling into his eyes. “Why don’t the rest of us get the same coddling that Ace gets? You always take it easy on him.”
Luke, our redheaded bass player, laughs beside him, obviously in total agreement that I’m babied.
I could try to defend myself—tell these guys to fuck off because I don’t get any special treatment, but I can’t. I know I get treated differently. Time and time again when I ask Jane Ann to stop making a fuss over just me all the time, she tells me that I’m the true talent of this band—the rest of the guys are a dime a dozen. But me, I’m the star—the one people pay good money to see.
“So what’s our set list like for tonight, Your Highness?” JJ asks mockingly.
My nostrils flare as I attempt to rein in my already boiling anger. “Same set as last night, but we’ll be canceling the next couple our shows on the tour.”
“What?!” Jane Ann and JJ ask in unison.
I flinch, completely flustered as to why Jane Ann acts like this is news to her. We just talked about me leaving a few minutes ago, so this shouldn’t shock her. Now JJ, on the other hand, I knew he’d be pissed. If we don’t play the dates booked, we don’t get paid.
“What the fuck do you mean we’re canceling?” Luke asks, his fiery tone matching the color of his hair. “We’ve booked enough dates to be set for a long time. We can’t go canceling shit now.”
“Look, guys, I’m sorry, but my mother is sick—”
“That’s horseshit. You don’t even have a mother. You were a fucking orphan.”
“Shut your damn mouth before I shut it for you,” I fire back.
JJ takes a step closer to me. “That sounds like a threat.”
“You bet your ass it was.”
My pulse races under my skin as JJ and I stand almost toe to toe while we stare each other down. I’ve got him by at least two inches with my six-foot frame, but he’s got about sixty pounds on me. He’s a gym rat where I pride myself on speed and agility with running.
I don’t like to fight. It goes against the mellow life I want to lead, but I’m not afraid to defend myself or anyone else that may need my help.
Jane Ann wedges her small body between us when she sees that neither of us plans on backing down anytime soon. “Both of you knock this shit off right now. I won’t tolerate physical violence of any kind. This isn’t going to happen if you want to stay on Mopar’s payroll.”
JJ takes a step back and raises his hands in surrender. “Fine. Just keep Boy Wonder here out of my face.”
I tense and begin to lunge forward, but Jane Ann’s hand on my chest stops me. “Cool it, Ace. This is neither the time nor place.” She turns to the rest of the guys. “You three, go wait side stage.”
I take a deep breath and blow it out through pursed lips as the guys walk away from me. Never did I imagine a music career being this full of utter bullshit. Not only do I constantly have Jane Ann up my ass about doing what’s best for Wicked White, but the label and the band love to jump on me every chance they get.
I fucking hate it.
I wish I’d never signed that deal.
I wish I still played to small crowds and lived in the land of obscurity.
Jane Ann whips her head back in my direction. “What in the hell were you thinking telling them you’re canceling shows? You don’t have that kind of authority.”
“But you just said that I could go after the show tonight,” I argue. “Why wouldn’t I tell them I’ll be gone for a couple days?”
She shakes her head. “I never said that you could go. Do you know how much money we’ll lose if you don’t show up at those next two shows? You aren’t going anywhere.”
I open my mouth to protest, but Jane Ann begins shoving me in the direction of the stage the moment Wicked White’s name is announced. “Now get out there.”
Flabbergasted and almost in a dreamlike state, I allow her to keep pushing me until I’ve got one foot on the stage. Tyler, Luke, and JJ begin playing the first song in our set list, and I stare at Jane Ann.
This woman isn’t my friend.
I turn and take in the faces of each of my bandmates one by one. None of them are my friends. They could give a shit less about me. I just told them my mother is sick and they all blow me off like my feelings don’t matter.
I thread my fingers into my bronze hair as it hits me hard. I hate these people just as much as they hate me, and I can’t be around them for one more second. I don’t care what I’m losing. It’s nothing compared to my sanity and the self-worth I’ll lose by sticking around and continuing to be used.
To make sure they get my message above the deafening music that’s playing around the outdoor stage, I raise both of my hands to the guys and flip them the middle finger before I storm off stage.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"> Read the Rest NOW!!! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Live on </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: red;">Amazon:</span> <a href="http://amzn.to/1H8yOWc">http://amzn.to/1H8yOWc</a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxkBekMz8iolUSYJ9s6TsH6cFLHNJeGWv5YX3qCTC9BWc_8MR0VUepMO7EJ-h813kyEZJUWmYVqwIJkO08gmLs7mnmlA0GeaCj7h1mDesaY-pZ40QTakMcnNOgF_dDwJ1hstAg97773g/s1600/ace2+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxkBekMz8iolUSYJ9s6TsH6cFLHNJeGWv5YX3qCTC9BWc_8MR0VUepMO7EJ-h813kyEZJUWmYVqwIJkO08gmLs7mnmlA0GeaCj7h1mDesaY-pZ40QTakMcnNOgF_dDwJ1hstAg97773g/s320/ace2+%25282%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3uOlwne9_1DHLUrjY8V7lyRFuFK8fIpxivFSs6wi01u5uic-4bFHwguNj8Mf6xIdsbxie08i-T6Moq8xq7iWVNxiHuEpJM-mFYmJO2v4ZT0Na70yJ8eAYxdwkluX1UPMnYsiYJL6bQEM/s1600/ace5+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3uOlwne9_1DHLUrjY8V7lyRFuFK8fIpxivFSs6wi01u5uic-4bFHwguNj8Mf6xIdsbxie08i-T6Moq8xq7iWVNxiHuEpJM-mFYmJO2v4ZT0Na70yJ8eAYxdwkluX1UPMnYsiYJL6bQEM/s320/ace5+%25282%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://amzn.to/1BJVAUc"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Follow the series with Wicked Reunion (Wicked White#2)Pre-order Here! </span></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-35692599119515780992015-03-17T00:23:00.000-04:002015-04-28T14:24:30.666-04:00Naughty King is Live!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgo7KX_TlONOJVUSffXlXNhy1BChV4i0X3UeweuaSSonxT1FjFafAmHfAKI6zxKXNV5GRJWdGIxQVq9OGpuAdaKMopGoikYxe4lPyAkyWCB07yVtCgG65O7gNxlkbACvEtiiyLhl96VY/s1600/KingBookCover5x8+(3)%2BFINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgo7KX_TlONOJVUSffXlXNhy1BChV4i0X3UeweuaSSonxT1FjFafAmHfAKI6zxKXNV5GRJWdGIxQVq9OGpuAdaKMopGoikYxe4lPyAkyWCB07yVtCgG65O7gNxlkbACvEtiiyLhl96VY/s1600/KingBookCover5x8+(3)+FINAL.jpg" height="640" width="396" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 12.86px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 12.86px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The King Always Gets His Way.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 12.86px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Women, business, pleasure: When I want it, I get it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I’m never denied.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Including her. <span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;"><br />I will break her.<br />I will show her who the king of this city really is.<br />The Feisty Princess of Manhattan will learn I am not a man that can be tempted.<br />No matter how d@mn bad I want her in my bed.</span></span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, "lucida grande", tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 12.86px;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">What Reviewers are saying:</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"OH MAH GAWD! This book was HOT. It has all of my favorite things rolled up in one perfect package." --Heather, A Book Whores Obsession</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Naughty King was freaking awesome, really freaking hot, and fanfreakingtastic. I'm freaking out here, can you tell?" --Jen, The Book Avenue</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"I'm still wiping the tears from my eyes away. This is the most hilarious book I have read probably in 2015. I literally almost peed my pants." --Sammies' Book Blog</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"Wow, I LOVED this one!!! This was my first time reading anything from Michelle A. Valentine, and I’m not sure why seeing as she’s been a huge hit with a lot of my Goodread friends, which is why I jumped at the chance to read Naughty King." -- Cathy, Forever Reading Book Blog</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"If you do not add this one to your TBR list, then you are going to miss one h*ll of a good book." -- Hooker Heels Book Blog</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Amazon US: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1AHrXeT&h=lAQHOJwfK&enc=AZMVX28moRFL5Hpd2erOVoc2aO-tV8tzUIw1beKJ82mcGSyL_Jg-hCRQe7Jm8VrqZlPou4tUlYgqxiej-ZF1mrGDQ9zM876BYlOADQFQ8NOWAm7XnJ2kl3sZOTvOV8JS5-KkpV4XMwpG4_3fK6eCAj4Qoj1biCtnZ8-LlPxx60Rk0A&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1AHrXeT</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Amazon UK: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FlbKqpK&h=AAQHoF3Nn&enc=AZOT8jBOFkB0ZZbSeI1COT2OLNkjpumeLHAI7WEn35X0NDSHeW3fFVot2E9AMlnRohgug9028tjRMyZAbsTle9BtOmPPSNfj3pilJAOXs1BYqxa3rwWh0rh_rEJ40bFlSOZNkXadCT_HuqurgOFxzgbsBWkYHszKY5LRXVDdZ-gh5A&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/lbKqpK</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Amazon AU: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0TYqRH&h=EAQGLBB_l&enc=AZNEpUFQ2BvpEnqPg7x0upHGy_ZHuml8ZcyJ2sk7MbPzYRShtR5yCFF99uadtn4gXP2O8yeDw_G3e6R8a_PFwxRsTTKoKv5N5KpwPYvo8r6BRyka6R27TIUpZbeIMbQEY2PC3CzmfCoO5o2Mx_JKQgxqJ-7LDV3m211urc-nWDAy_A&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0TYqRH</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nook: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F3cuIlF&h=oAQHVjcw_&enc=AZP1d1w3im95iQy4U2mAr3EvpSky4-q1B9wsUlqCCJXxMD0YWCWGklrW7D7RnaVxC5XeMnBdtNtS_5AciQ7mISiLAk84c1fr4FbXP9KTsWEjYV4OvPO5Pugu-LsYx7zczklqRHV3t5wSL9pwlzDEvBJokO1wJ6WItBRdiISAwdJB8g&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/3cuIlF</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kobo: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F6VtpWE&h=2AQFThkGl&enc=AZNnu5QMYmwh0gIoUyXI8j_DoOetqSEw2VGkJkDfRbxs92nMA2omKCoG1qn95HhSqCOfDoZZEtY7W326pQDAr3gFbjAVJPggh4r1NP4CYLtoRTPja3Ce2qvu4icW6Gq_W3CPqqaNNEDmstspifPOaV4hnlQ7XTLAWaKI1-7h78sqsA&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/6VtpWE</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Google Books: <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2Fqc3eDK&h=PAQFfMZNS&enc=AZOZg2LioSmc5HDJIGTf2NvDj0t3PtJba4WQmeY_RCBbRZ6y3PrZXW-WJym2CsimZKigleAnk7J7uYC9ncuXBagQcBpUGGrWFlhqepTWc0vCEK9jHNKKNMdC0KQ_UEBBq-e4XT6pQsOROU0LXrI6yCoDmJtVISv5OhxlgxsXXzD5-g&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/qc3eDK</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">iBooks: <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/naughty-king-sexy-manhattan/id980320209?mt=11">https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/naughty-king-sexy-manhattan/id980320209?mt=11</a></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Book one in a three part erotic romance series from NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Michelle A. Valentine (Rock the Heart, Phenomenal X, Wicked White, Demon at My Door).</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naughty King (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Feisty Princess (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Two) -- Coming Soon</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dirty Royals (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part Three) -- Coming Soon</span></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimli6JJBQVTU5zwOkW9xsOrZEFePgpJKLhJxMfhYaEVUCw-5PwAkmLt8Ddd4uvC1JHkIu9nvWGz-Gz0mFG7CfLhmc2Phk9ReJs3UPOOclgj16oPoefJRpGque0K-9gB58GhkFivTLkgYc/s1600/Naughty+King+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimli6JJBQVTU5zwOkW9xsOrZEFePgpJKLhJxMfhYaEVUCw-5PwAkmLt8Ddd4uvC1JHkIu9nvWGz-Gz0mFG7CfLhmc2Phk9ReJs3UPOOclgj16oPoefJRpGque0K-9gB58GhkFivTLkgYc/s1600/Naughty+King+6.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELmGg4Tvp2Q3gxKsy7MmzH29iC1vDcUlewkHngx-kxRklkBkEkbTacIp2G32NLuUwKOJ3Hp8bkd_m0SZC8KsRGGTQ_2cOIqvxT9u1KEJ4IX-FF97PVIypgl823qzdvNv6JwKtxUbtQ18/s1600/Naughty+King+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELmGg4Tvp2Q3gxKsy7MmzH29iC1vDcUlewkHngx-kxRklkBkEkbTacIp2G32NLuUwKOJ3Hp8bkd_m0SZC8KsRGGTQ_2cOIqvxT9u1KEJ4IX-FF97PVIypgl823qzdvNv6JwKtxUbtQ18/s1600/Naughty+King+5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMvvSWAOYzTWSgCjmMinflSnosibjjqsVJHT9ACgToxFZh7XVQgE2_uturvoeW9iZvDFybilsnBSwuC_a26lLH0NAy-I8DsRVuD6akiBv4bUaCVG45SK3spS6R_twU6Rl7bP3kOYl2Dg/s1600/Do+whatever+the+fuck+I+please+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMvvSWAOYzTWSgCjmMinflSnosibjjqsVJHT9ACgToxFZh7XVQgE2_uturvoeW9iZvDFybilsnBSwuC_a26lLH0NAy-I8DsRVuD6akiBv4bUaCVG45SK3spS6R_twU6Rl7bP3kOYl2Dg/s1600/Do+whatever+the+fuck+I+please+2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqFO04hPgD71YwM7DiBOl1jVCmH2nNaBU-5gZtRHUEqj6PJ3VG_RNSLadN6dyb_zqYsniI4wM_l63hZxZM54LzI7Kb37bjTQZRiV7eHvhS19IRUawaeD71edANnV6z_bVxHGFi57TIzg/s1600/MVRoyalsBookmark2+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqFO04hPgD71YwM7DiBOl1jVCmH2nNaBU-5gZtRHUEqj6PJ3VG_RNSLadN6dyb_zqYsniI4wM_l63hZxZM54LzI7Kb37bjTQZRiV7eHvhS19IRUawaeD71edANnV6z_bVxHGFi57TIzg/s1600/MVRoyalsBookmark2+(2).jpg" height="320" width="111" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePAuQcQZmXIbdgqsrK5ugpoqZsfvrkpuU_G90dtKi7DNFy-pKlmGmwmgWEzxMYo-gzsgzesFsDqGpJhrLBJS2YaH5GibCHyzjJXwjFZ8p4DRpHeqFhz-pqIXSgJ3deyLGKhUrrOxnFqs/s1600/Naughty+King+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePAuQcQZmXIbdgqsrK5ugpoqZsfvrkpuU_G90dtKi7DNFy-pKlmGmwmgWEzxMYo-gzsgzesFsDqGpJhrLBJS2YaH5GibCHyzjJXwjFZ8p4DRpHeqFhz-pqIXSgJ3deyLGKhUrrOxnFqs/s1600/Naughty+King+4.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-72158556846556148992015-03-12T00:34:00.000-04:002015-03-17T00:35:31.250-04:00Naughty King: Chapter One<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPROGYAXCM1-YsmLDP5qiUYW9-aX6lj1NW1aXrKQk68zS_3rms38-xCMd906km3NVNjsz-9lrTgKqC_8P8e5v92XUYY8ISorB7JL_FyJqINNfWq7CKjCPQNMHPWxoEh1h-YUXUEgi643Q/s1600/Title+heading+King.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPROGYAXCM1-YsmLDP5qiUYW9-aX6lj1NW1aXrKQk68zS_3rms38-xCMd906km3NVNjsz-9lrTgKqC_8P8e5v92XUYY8ISorB7JL_FyJqINNfWq7CKjCPQNMHPWxoEh1h-YUXUEgi643Q/s1600/Title+heading+King.JPG" height="320" width="301" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_n5U_urSXJmXQDjZ1nisTbSlEl1UmYUYKOLdRYiKov10aEmMeeWrG2hvc2FJQsm_SNtjT3gVdpGhbk0i-68C-Hr0H_VrsJI64LtZyvFKaYgUduT9IBdKBhC4K0GcAsJLZ4YHvpdgiGtk/s1600/Chapter+one+King+Heading.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_n5U_urSXJmXQDjZ1nisTbSlEl1UmYUYKOLdRYiKov10aEmMeeWrG2hvc2FJQsm_SNtjT3gVdpGhbk0i-68C-Hr0H_VrsJI64LtZyvFKaYgUduT9IBdKBhC4K0GcAsJLZ4YHvpdgiGtk/s1600/Chapter+one+King+Heading.JPG" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="text-transform: uppercase;">I STARE DOWN AT</span><span lang="EN-CA"> <span style="text-transform: uppercase;">THE</span> woman on her knees in front of me. Her eager hands work quickly to undo my belt then they move on to my zipper.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She tosses her blonde hair back and grins. “I’m gonna suck your cock so good, baby, you’ll be begging for more.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I thread my fingers through her mass of curls and fist them, forcing her to look up at me. “Coming in your mouth has a two hundred dollar price tag. You’ll do the job I paid for, and then you’ll get the fuck out. I’ll want nothing more to do with you after that. Understand?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She narrows her brown eyes at me. At first, I think this one might actually have a little backbone to her, and may just tell me to go to hell like I deserve, but she doesn’t. They never do. Instead, she gets right to work rubbing my semi-hard cock through my boxer-briefs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The only thing women see when they are in my presence is money—I’m surrounded by it. They see the material shit I have and their eyes light up like they’ve just found their golden fucking goose.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">It’s been both a curse and a blessing since I was twenty years old and inherited my father’s billions. Every single woman I’ve ever been with has convinced herself that she’d be the one to tame me. That her magical pussy would make me fall madly in love with her—that I’d marry her and sign over half of my fortune.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Not fucking likely.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I know this looks bad. Most people would be both disgusted and curious as to why a devastatingly handsome, shrewd, successful businessman like myself would stoop to hiring a hooker. Truth is? It’s fucking convenient. I send a text, and I get whatever I’m in the mood for. No questions asked.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">That’s why for the past few months I’ve relied on paying for escorts from a discreet service. It’s less hassle than trying to find a slutty socialite to bang. I did that for two years straight, and it created more work for me than the lay was worth because I had to deal with kicking their annoying asses out the next day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">That shit gets exhausting.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The blonde reaches down inside my shorts and then shoves them down, resting the waistband under my ball sack. There’s a wicked gleam in her eyes as she licks her lips and then pops my head into her mouth.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Now we’re fucking getting somewhere.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The bitch goes to work licking, sucking, and deep-throating my cock. Her saliva coats my shaft, and I lean my head back against the leather couch in my office as I finally start enjoying what I’ve paid for.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">There’s nothing like a blowjob to start my day off right.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The handle on my office door moves, and my head snaps up just in time to make direct eye contact with my new secretary, Margo, as she steps into my office, unannounced, closing the door behind her. She’s been doing that for the past two days. This girl needs to fucking learn how to knock before she comes waltzing in here. I’m about to teach her that lesson right now.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I fully expect my mousy new employee’s cheeks to flush as she rushes from my office, but she surprises me as she stands there, only allowing her mouth to fall open as she takes in the sight of the woman pleasing me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The blonde attempts to stop, but I’m enjoying making Margo uncomfortable, so I place my hand on the back of her head and order, “Don’t you dare fucking stop.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo gasps, raising a well-manicured hand to her pouty lips while her blue eyes widen behind her dark-rimmed glasses.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">It takes her a minute, but when she turns to leave, I have a different idea in mind. “Margo, if you walk out of that door, you’re fired.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She halts mid-step at my domineering command. She needs this job. She and I both know it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo smoothes back her black hair which is still perfectly in place in her uptight bun, and slowly turns back around to face me. “Why do you want me in here?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I give her my cockiest shit-eatin’ grin. “Because I want to stare at you while I come in this bitch’s mouth.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She shakes her head. “This is absolutely insane. I’m not going—”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“You <i>will</i> stay,” I order again. “Because if you don’t, I’ll make a phone call to Daddy and tell him that our little deal is off. Your call, princess.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She folds her arms over her chest, and I raise my eyebrow in challenge to her. That bitch honestly thinks she’s better than I am. She’s so uptight and highfalutin. Ever since she walked in here two days ago, I’ve wanted nothing more than to break her. I’ve been thinking of creative ways to show Margo that I run shit around here, and that the only reason I’ve even allowed her to have a job in my office is because her father begged me. Part of the deal to buy out his company included that she’d have a secure job.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo needs to know that I’m her new daddy. She’s no longer the princess of a million-dollar empire because as soon as I ink this deal to bail her father out, I’ll own her, just like I’ll own her family’s business.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I lick my lips while I wait on Margo to make her move. Her eyes flit down to my mouth and then down to the blonde who is now gagging herself to please me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I lift my hips off the couch as I hold the blonde’s head in place and fuck her mouth while Margo watches me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo’s chest heaves and my eyes are drawn to the tops of her tits mounding out of the top of her blouse.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I quickly close my eyes because I don’t want to think about Margo’s tits, but for some strange reason, I can’t stop. Suddenly, it isn’t some random prostitute sucking me off. It’s uptight Margo in her naughty wannabe schoolteacher outfit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I slide my teeth along my bottom lip then bite down as I suck in a quick breath. My eyes snap open, making direct eye contact with Margo as I come hard, shooting my load down the blonde’s throat as my employee watches with a scowl on her face.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">A shudder rips through me as I bask in the afterglow of one fine orgasm. I smile as the blonde unwraps her mouth from my cock and licks the tip of my dick to make sure she swallows down every last bit of come.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo continues to shoot daggers at me. This is all kinds of wrong and a fucking sexual harassment lawsuit waiting to happen, but I honestly don’t give a shit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">All I care about is making sure my point is crystal clear with my new bitch of an employee—she is here to serve me. Not the other way around.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I sit up, stuffing my cock back inside my underwear before zipping my pants up. “Margo, pay the lady.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo’s plump lip curls in what I’m sure is an expression of thorough disgust. “Pay for your own fucking whores.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Her words shock me at first, but then I find myself highly amused. I burst out in a deep laugh, which only makes Margo’s face even redder before I fish my wallet from my back pocket. I lay two hundred-dollar bills on my knee for the hooker while never taking my eyes from my heated secretary. “You’re free to leave now.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Relief floods Margo’s face as she turns, but I stop her. “Not you, Margo. I was talking to my . . . <i>guest</i> here.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The hooker stuffs the money down in her bra and then winks. “You tasted yummy. Request me anytime.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo rolls her eyes behind the woman and shakes her head, but I simply nod at the woman. “What was your name again?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Candy.” She grins.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Of course it is,” Margo scoffs.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I push myself up from the couch and button my jacket, putting myself back together. “Sorry, Candy. I never request the same girl twice. More than once and you bitches get clingy and forget I hired you just to get me off, not to talk. Matter of fact—” I glance down at my watch. “—it’s time for you to get the fuck out. I’ve got a meeting to prepare for.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Candy’s nostrils flare. “You can’t treat people like this.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Of course, I can. I’m Alexander King, and I can do whatever the fuck I please. Now leave before I call security and have you forcibly removed from the property.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Asshole,” Candy calls over her shoulder as she leaves without another word of protest.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">You would think being called that would cause me to flinch, but no, I revel in the name. I like that women hate the way I treat them. It ensures they keep their distance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The door slams and Margo points her gaze in my direction. “I assume you’re done with me now that the show’s over?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Since we’re alone, I take my time to rake my eyes over Margo. She still appears angry enough to chop my dick off.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Good.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I want her to hate me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I want to make it clear that we are not friends.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Margo . . .” I can’t help smirking as I adjust the cuff of my jacket. “I’m just getting started with you.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She arches a perfectly manicured eyebrow. “What’s that supposed to mean?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I laugh. “You seem like a bright girl—I mean, not just anyone earns two degrees from Harvard. You know that sooner or later you’ll be on your knees before me.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She laughs bitterly. “You can’t be serious. I would never be one of your two-dollar whores.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I take a step toward her, reducing the gap between us to mere inches. She’s close enough that I can feel her breath coming out in warm little puffs. “Don’t pretend like that didn’t turn you on. I saw you watching—waiting your turn like a good girl. Don’t worry, you’ll get your chance someday.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Fuck you,” she spats.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Not yet, but you will.” I trace the exposed flesh on her chest with the tip of my finger. “You’ll beg me for it. You’ll beg me to fuck you, hoping that it’ll be you who changes my asshole ways and makes me fall in love.” She opens her mouth to protest, but I press my finger to her lips, cutting her off. “You will. I have that effect on women, but you’re smart enough to know that if you do that—if you let me have you—you’ll quit when you don’t get your way like the spoiled little brat your father has raised. And we both know that you quitting will piss off Daddy, don’t we?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“I needed a secure job that will pay the bills after my family goes bankrupt. You know that. It’s part of the deal with my father,” she argues, but I’m not stupid enough to buy into that.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“Don’t lie to me,” I scold her roughly, and she stiffens. “We’re both highly intelligent human beings so let’s not play dumb. You’re here to spy on me—to figure out a way to stop me from buying your father’s company for pennies and then sell off everything he’s worked for piece by fucking piece, in turn making me an even richer man.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She lifts her chin. “You’re a bastard, you know that?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I shrug. “Maybe so, but I’m honest and just to show you that infiltrating my business doesn’t scare me one damn bit, I’m going to allow you to stay. But know this: I’m going to make your life a living hell while you’re here. I’ll have you dying to fuck my brains out or needing to walk away before you kill me with your own bare hands. Either way—you’re fucked.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, giving me a chance to study her features. She wears the dark hair on her head pulled back, but I imagine that when she lets it down, it hangs in long loose waves around her shoulders. When she opens her eyes and gazes up at me, I notice the blue of her eyes standing out against the contrast of her dark hair, and it hits me—I bet she’d be an amazing lay.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">She licks her lips, not in a way that’s meant to be sexy but in the way people do when they’re nervous, and my eyes are instantly drawn to her mouth.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Dammit all to hell. This would be so much easier if she was ugly—to humiliate her by playing with her emotions and knowing there’d be no way in hell I would actually fuck her except out of spite. The problem is that’s not the case. She’s exactly my favorite type of woman to fuck: beautiful and bitchy. When I take her, I can’t allow myself to enjoy it. I won’t give her that satisfaction.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo stares at me for a long moment, and just when I think she’s about to lay into me again, she twists her hand around my tie, yanking me closer. Without warning her tongue darts out and touches my top lip, causing a tiny shudder to tear through me before she pulls back with a sly smile on her face. “That’s where you’re wrong, Mr. King. That prediction implies that I would actually fall for your juvenile antics of seduction.” Her hand presses against my chest and then moves down to my stomach, drifting even farther south. “Those boyish tricks would never work on me. I’m a woman who always gets what she wants.” I let out a low grunt of half pain and half excitement as she grabs my semi-hard cock through my slacks. Stilling her hand on my cock, she leans into my ear and whispers, “When I want it.” The urge to throw her onto my desk and fuck her senseless surges through me. Never has a woman asserted herself with me, and as much as I fucking hate to admit it, I’m totally turned on by it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo kisses my cheek before she pulls back and releases a hearty laugh. “Who’s fucked now?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Angry that I allowed myself to be distracted for one moment, I shove her away a little rougher than I mean to. “Get the fuck out. We’re done here.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Margo laughs as she takes a step back toward the door. “Oh, Mr. King, that’s where you’re wrong again. We both know this little game of ours has only just begun.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“I said we’re fucking done with this conversation.” I glare at her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">“As you wish.” She smirks and actually fucking curtsies before heading out my door, invoking my hatred even more.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">The moment the door closes, I plop down in my chair and loosen my tie. How in the holy hell did that just happen?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">My nostrils flare and I take a deep breath, trying to maintain my composure and not throw something. The one thing I fucking hate is to be shown up. I’m always the winner—number one at all times. She will not take control of this situation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">No fucking way.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">I won’t allow that to happen. Ever.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">If Margo Buchanan wants a fucking war with me then, a war is what she’s going to fucking get.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA">Buy this Story Now:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA"><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Amazon US: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1AHrXeT&h=CAQH-6kbC&enc=AZPxayUaIwBZ5-yFs_Co-3Ixphd4ahShlaLYm1A9a_AzuwSL5LES3c0kgOOaQr91nYK11O2J0Rgo9IgT60op_H6VbybTyqIgpdTYgJtc22WCYojoHqTA7D7-7DXcV9jUXdh_sgjle4cRjr9RjBowsL4f7KrB4Hvz8CPgQxvluqAtNg&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1AHrXeT</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FlbKqpK&h=sAQFdL2to&enc=AZNURMKPVCwobs02MR29nm1bJ0ckjE0wrja0eV6KP4W4SQoxeYM_4AUhL5oWdvU_ovFwgxUjAxfVTituNWUwHXgr1p3mzYODypShvlzCQKNG2jl-3e1w7_KQDW3wuyoU7VqlIploRLQtGpHUnJ7jjM-VT4W2JzWZJqz_UHMnYlLX4w&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/lbKqpK</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Amazon AU: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2F0TYqRH&h=4AQGSFt6E&enc=AZMZCv8VrVuFG-jyXMKi0Zuip58zVbHq5oHUBo-HXsUKPprIEALJNgpYN_QmjFzfk39R-Jz-F4Se-hNtUPddHes01Srw9hgBNe_gj8EQY6FfZLZnar7FroEV1sm5Fgv4_FWueM_Ptz9C_G1ggKAqYEsTaA4DpPnfqgGiLc7zSWThvQ&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/0TYqRH</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Nook: </span><a href="http://goo.gl/3cuIlF" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/3cuIlF</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Kobo: </span><a href="http://goo.gl/6VtpWE" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/6VtpWE</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Google Books: </span><a href="http://goo.gl/qc3eDK" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/qc3eDK</a><br style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">iBooks: Still Pending</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-50794554585594310992015-03-02T21:01:00.000-05:002015-03-12T16:11:20.515-04:00Black Falcon Box Set! Limited Time Only!<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Black Falcon: Complete Series Collection is now LIVE on all sites except iBooks (Still waiting on that one). Get this Box Set now for only 99 pennies for a very LIMITED time.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Includes New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Books: Rock the Beginning, Rock the Heart, Rock the Band, Rock My Bed, Rock My World, Rock the Beat, Rock My Body, Two Bonus Scenes, Playlists and Character Bios</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Amazon US: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F1LWhrXt&h=cAQF-79mc&enc=AZOTLDpSjetUNWXoO0dz8JjcdBOLk3Pf1n1OtUm93QQxLTf7b9NbEcaQjHGSi6w0DyMfu4vWgsnDtTnchpvujlRowIbbdTp04xLQCdeQFNaRVSnJhqkomUK51mLLRP4s7rD4m5PEaayb7p1-w5k54s2JnuxY9YiT7ZHW9-7aLcIE1w&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://amzn.to/1LWhrXt</a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Amazon UK: </span><a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FNqGKc8&h=3AQHmfMWz&enc=AZNpAvnJOAZ_GdjsL9Eo_Gpsf9nvxijVWv48t59zmHQ3PudDas-wy7N7mpsEahsfjTy8na-TyDQ4PeeVvckVDzng-uv0yUZQ-adnlBp44wUlqooyYcHWx7U38FloV35rVuyoM4B1plwghzcgFyxzq3pWksnFFuJ03UypcubygqI3kQ&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/NqGKc8</a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Nook: </span><a href="http://goo.gl/1BLHRE" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/1BLHRE</a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">
</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Kobo:</span><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"> </span><a href="http://goo.gl/03Diqg" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/03Diqg</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">Google Books:</span><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"> </span><a href="http://goo.gl/F6smF8" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/F6smF8</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">iTunes-- <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/black-falcon-complete-series/id972737785?mt=11">https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/black-falcon-complete-series/id972737785?mt=11</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLqVSh4SssyUrF-uD75GNdwC23vv2R9ynEy8zgAjs_8dvPVFUlXdjXU54cM6i7R6WzJsjtnxhiMtEYLaa8uoK5UUPn3MkxUmxgIgSbiAvXAwsLmmCjVegkXFgOqBTu0ghSYici2EqN_M/s1600/BFCompleteCoverBOX+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLqVSh4SssyUrF-uD75GNdwC23vv2R9ynEy8zgAjs_8dvPVFUlXdjXU54cM6i7R6WzJsjtnxhiMtEYLaa8uoK5UUPn3MkxUmxgIgSbiAvXAwsLmmCjVegkXFgOqBTu0ghSYici2EqN_M/s1600/BFCompleteCoverBOX+(2).jpg" height="294" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjau9t82YoqnwBjWSTiqp5R7ujurVBknVoFAkw3M-5IHkTmRjB8r-SrVUDFjiFzkSN2dJMJCNNQCfx4E-TjWr_rNRnvOXx5SqzvNfZJ8GWNEr8ibzw_tA884aHn7AU6CVkGyQWrOj_U8Sg/s1600/BFCompleteCover5x8+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjau9t82YoqnwBjWSTiqp5R7ujurVBknVoFAkw3M-5IHkTmRjB8r-SrVUDFjiFzkSN2dJMJCNNQCfx4E-TjWr_rNRnvOXx5SqzvNfZJ8GWNEr8ibzw_tA884aHn7AU6CVkGyQWrOj_U8Sg/s1600/BFCompleteCover5x8+(2).jpg" height="320" width="198" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><br /></span></div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-87777862150362988432015-01-20T17:03:00.000-05:002015-01-21T17:32:28.096-05:00Naughty King Teaser Compilation!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;">Are you ready to meet the Naughtiest man in Manhattan?? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;">Add </span><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Naughty King</span><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;"> to your Goodreads <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23644021-naughty-king?from_search=true">HERE</a>!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: x-large;">Don't miss his big release! Sign Up for my Newsletter <a href="http://eepurl.com/P1919">HERE</a>!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjogkkG7a0-0wuHZSkMCdGRD9cOD1A7UqrJ5gtONWhCUcdwWfbq28pWmtxwdh3EqWI_5tvxABhoawSB1Jc9-Z4FXN6UQcrBKnnNaDvRoilY4Nrkj2m7AeZTGESj_O6Bj5dmtNp9x2-ig8/s1600/Do+whatever+the+fuck+I+please+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjogkkG7a0-0wuHZSkMCdGRD9cOD1A7UqrJ5gtONWhCUcdwWfbq28pWmtxwdh3EqWI_5tvxABhoawSB1Jc9-Z4FXN6UQcrBKnnNaDvRoilY4Nrkj2m7AeZTGESj_O6Bj5dmtNp9x2-ig8/s1600/Do+whatever+the+fuck+I+please+2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5g73o9ZTRPP91z_t_BkE0s4mLrX22ZFzWpxzdiaT8f84ZSTnU18uGdoOuMoyCe-FAMtIeYeYc0k7e7Hnx3GGJYOTE_iZIgd71CFBck706LC-ktRYlW6PwFkUM0wbw9ZSoi5RjgU5ew0/s1600/Naughty+King+War+teaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5g73o9ZTRPP91z_t_BkE0s4mLrX22ZFzWpxzdiaT8f84ZSTnU18uGdoOuMoyCe-FAMtIeYeYc0k7e7Hnx3GGJYOTE_iZIgd71CFBck706LC-ktRYlW6PwFkUM0wbw9ZSoi5RjgU5ew0/s1600/Naughty+King+War+teaser.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjozm5FPA7fphwVI4GOGeGa2PMoqrFeIwFBHvEaWbsHKQr5_3bYtqOYpF1cTRS4B-wYxakszosYcztTR8-pMWuarJVT22e8QF64j4eyZQbHo6V7jtKcy3g2D9sn5nrwuedFJLsgpRaH7ok/s1600/King+Tease+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjozm5FPA7fphwVI4GOGeGa2PMoqrFeIwFBHvEaWbsHKQr5_3bYtqOYpF1cTRS4B-wYxakszosYcztTR8-pMWuarJVT22e8QF64j4eyZQbHo6V7jtKcy3g2D9sn5nrwuedFJLsgpRaH7ok/s1600/King+Tease+3.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-30827501567551438482015-01-12T23:44:00.000-05:002015-01-20T17:05:39.223-05:00Resurrection Vengeance Free Read! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLwFfK0BbQXzkjGB1XujpfNU1xrrSM7ahUI6Pmz8bOMSx9A20tpBXO2DUv67Lrld4f16woMl3PvJnQMUnG7jpGLG_-zvnNmtioDbJTbExY5hhMtsOTO4xjvXXyF8T2TCFDJ4Gdbb3ay4/s1600/Resurrection6x9+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLwFfK0BbQXzkjGB1XujpfNU1xrrSM7ahUI6Pmz8bOMSx9A20tpBXO2DUv67Lrld4f16woMl3PvJnQMUnG7jpGLG_-zvnNmtioDbJTbExY5hhMtsOTO4xjvXXyF8T2TCFDJ4Gdbb3ay4/s1600/Resurrection6x9+(2).jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Find this book on Wattpad! Read along as I write the story and post it for you to read free!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wattpad.com/myworks/30530432-resurrection-vengence"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.wattpad.com/myworks/30530432-resurrection-vengence</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Waking up fifty years after fleeing a horrible prom date is the least of Sydney Archer’s problems. Through a scientific breakthrough made by her baby brother turned world-renowned scientist, Sydney has been brought back to life with the help of alien DNA. Now, not only is her</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">sexy alien donor linked to her for life, but she also discovers she’s only half-human. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Ozu Qeth Haddoxian was one alien secret the government intended to keep hidden from society forever. Haddox has a different idea, and he’s willing to exchange his own secrets for sweet freedom. But once he allows the scientist to reincarnate Sydney using his DNA, he realizes their destiny is set, irrevocably intertwined. And no amount of fighting his attraction to Sydney will change that. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Now, the government has captured Sydney’s brother, leaving her with nobody but Haddox. As the only living aliens on Earth, they’re extremely valuable, and there are people who would love to unlock all of Haddox’s secrets. Sydney refuses to allow them to catch her. After all, how many times can a girl be reincarnated? To survive, she must learn to master her new-found alien abilities to outrun people who want her dead. With Haddox by her side, she just might be able to save her new species...but only if she ignores the undeniable magnetism drawing her to him because, if Haddox is to be believed, a relationship between them might just off them both.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-21077568618461041602015-01-12T19:07:00.003-05:002015-01-12T19:15:19.325-05:00ROCK THE BEGININING (Black Falcon Prequel) Full Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI5HmES2-uA1fC5iOOFItLmc6woffgYsWEiELxTa4WgcASWNaSmBUiumqaurCayMa_E9Gb_UURtB5wtWd7FIBr6q4kMcBg0uZPqXMfmytwFaHFitCE1dI6VCXyEkkdcpbP5p7Ulfidx8/s1600/Rock+the+Beginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI5HmES2-uA1fC5iOOFItLmc6woffgYsWEiELxTa4WgcASWNaSmBUiumqaurCayMa_E9Gb_UURtB5wtWd7FIBr6q4kMcBg0uZPqXMfmytwFaHFitCE1dI6VCXyEkkdcpbP5p7Ulfidx8/s1600/Rock+the+Beginning.jpg" height="640" width="481" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h2 style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u>Rock the Beginning
(Black Falcon Prequel to Rock the Heart)</u></span></span></b></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Chapter 1<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Freshman year…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">LANE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
So this is it?
Freshman year. I stand in the pristine hallway of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Cedar</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Creek</st1:placetype>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> next to my
best friend Cassandra Lutz as we survey the same faces we see year after year.
Nothing in this town ever changes. I was hoping that I would be wowed in high
school—dramatically swept off my feet on my first day by a dashing
upper-classmen—living the dream of going to the prom as a freshman. Well, at
least it’s a big dream of mine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
But sadly, I’m
disappointed yet again. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I sigh heavily and
lean my back against the red locker and squeeze my books tighter against my
chest. I can’t wait to get out of here and run off to a big city where I can
make something of myself. I’ve always thought a job in advertising sounded fun.
Maybe I’ll try that someday.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Just once I’d
love to have some fresh meat in this place,” Cassandra says pulling her brown
hair into a loose bun on the top of her head. “I hate knowing everything about
these guys. There’s no mystery. None of them do anything surprising.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod in total
agreement. “Where are all the guys I read about in books—the ones that know
exactly what to say? The first day of school is practically over and nothing
remotely exciting has happened yet.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The moment the
words leave my mouth, a crash against the lockers a few feet to my right draws
my attention. I suddenly feel the urge to take back the last thing I said. This
is not exactly the kind of excitement I was hoping for.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
All the kids in
the hallway stop dead in their tracks in unison and stare at the scene playing
out before us like a bad teen sitcom. Roger Robertson, the guy we all know as
the school bully, grips Wendell McFarland, a kid in my grade, by the collar of
his shirt. Roger’s large arms twist as he repositions his wrists in order to
get a better grip, while he wears a sickening smile on his red, pimple-covered
face. Roger isn’t the kind of guy you want to mess with. His temper is about as
red-hot as the flaming color of his hair and we all know he’s been held back to
the freshman level three times now. If Roger walks down the hallway, you get
out of his way or duck for cover. His reputation of assholism precedes him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I instantly feel
sorry for Wendell. His tiny, pencil-like frame is no match for the likes of
Roger. “Give it up, you fucking pussy.” I flinch as Roger yanks Wendell forward
and slams him back even harder. “Don’t make me tell you again. I know your
parents are loaded. Cough up the dough.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Wendell gasps for
air as Roger shoves his knuckles into his throat. “I don’t have any money.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Another slam and
Wendell’s glasses slip down the bridge of his nose. “Cough it up you little
shit stain.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My mouth gapes
open and my eyes grow wide. It’s painfully hard to watch. Someone has to stop
this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I glance around. Several
of my classmates stand frozen. No one is making a move to stop this outright
appalling display of human behavior. This makes me sick. What’s wrong with
these people? A desperate need to make this stop fills me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Before I even
realize what I’m doing I take a couple quick steps and open my mouth. “Stop it!
Leave him alone!” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
It’s like a movie
when a hush falls over the crowd. I know this isn’t the smartest move, but I
just can’t stand by and do nothing to stop this. And, okay, I know the odds of
me being able to stop Roger physically are about as good as a one-legged man in
an ass-kicking contest, but I can’t idly sit by. I wasn’t raised that way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Cassandra grabs my
arm and whispers harshly, “Are you crazy, Lanine? What are you doing?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I pull my arm from
her grip and frown as I take in the fear from her brown eyes. I straighten my
stance. I have to appear brave. “Someone has to stop this, Cass.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Roger’s gaze darts
from me to Wendell. His eyes are so brown they almost appear black and the pure
venom in them causes my legs to shake. A deep laugh bursts out of his mouth and
holds me in place. “What do we have here? Is this your little girlfriend,
four-eyes? Is she here to save you?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“N—no,” Wendell
stutters.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
No one should be
able to get away with treating people like this. “Stop it, Roger!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Roger flings his
gaze at me. “Or what, Shirley Temple? You going to make me?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stare down at
the pink sun-dress I’m wearing. While very cute for my first day of school, it
doesn’t exactly scream badass, but this guy doesn’t know what I’m capable of,
so I can’t let him rattle my nerves. “I might. Now, leave him alone.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Roger sneers while
opening his large hands and makes a show of letting Wendell go. As soon as
Wendell is free, he takes off running without looking back to make sure I’m not
the one getting pounded now. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Thanks for the
back-up, Wendell. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The bully turns to
me and taps his lip. “Happy now, Shirley? I let him go, but it seems we have a
small problem now.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lift my chin as Roger
stalks towards me with slow steps like a tiger stalking his prey. “What’s
that?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Someone is going
to have to pay me. You see, I need money for a new tire and since you chased my
little buddy off who was about to pay for it, I guess that leaves you.” He
grins at me in a way a serial killer would right before he murders his victim. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I grip my books
tighter and my hands turn clammy. If he comes at me this Geometry book is going
to make one hell of a weapon. “Fat chance. I’m not giving you any money.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He shakes his head
as he steps in front of me. “That’s where you’re wrong. Guy, girl…doesn’t
matter to me. I’ll still beat you into submission in order to get what I need,
and what I need from you is money. You’re going to get that for me. A nice girl
like you seems good for it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I narrow my eyes.
“No, I’m not.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Roger slaps the
books from my hands and leans into me like he’s about to attack, but a voice
stops him. “Listen, bitch—” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Pick those up.”
My neighbor and childhood friend, Noel Falcon pushes his way through the crowd.
Once he’s through, he narrows his eyes at Roger, daring him to cross him. “Pick
those up, or I swear to God you’ll pay.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The guy in front
of me takes a step back and smirks as Noel steps between us, using his body to
shield me from Roger. At first I’m scared for Noel’s safety, but I quickly
notice he’s nearly an even match for the guy that’s much older than him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
When did he get so
tall and buff?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I guess I never
noticed Noel’s muscles before. The way they stretch his black t-shirt and how
board his shoulders have actually gotten has somehow slipped past me all summer
long. Granted, I haven’t seen him as much as I normally do over the summer.
Noel magically became busy every time I asked him to come over and go fishing
off the dock behind my house like we always did, which was…strange considering
we use to spend all of our time together. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
His hair grew too.
The shaggy hair he sported last school year as he got into rock music would probably
touch his shoulders now if he didn’t have it pulled back into a low-set
ponytail. I admit, he’s looking pretty good. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Roger straightens
his shoulders and rocks his neck like a trained fighter before he sets his eyes
on Noel. “You’ll walk away if you know what’s good for you. This is between me
and Shirley here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noels fingers fold
into fists at his side. “I think you got that backwards, fucker. It’s you that
needs to beat it. No one messes with
Lane. No one.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Brave words.
You’re going to wish you’d walked away when I gave you the chance after I beat
your face in,” Roger sneers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I’ll never walk
away from Lane. You fuck with her. You fuck with me.” There’s a growl in Noel’s
voice I’ve never heard before. It’s low and threatening. I never knew Noel
could be so scary or bad-ass or…hot.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Oh my <i>God</i>. What am I thinking? Noel isn’t hot.
Noel is…Noel, my friend—best friend since kindergarten. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I can’t ponder on
that last thought too long because Roger’s laugh pulls me out of that bubble.
Without warning Roger draws his arm back, launching it full force towards Noel’s
face. Two things happen so quick the scream building in my throat doesn’t have
time to come out. The first is Noel dodges the blow with ease and blasts Roger
in the face first while simultaneously pushing me out of harms way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I fall to the
floor in all the commotion just as Roger tackles Noel and they crash to the
ground. At first it appears that Roger has the upper-hand until Noel uses some
quick <i>UFC</i> style movements and turns
the tables. Noel flips Roger onto his back and straddles him before gripping a
handful of Roger’s shirt in his hand and blasts a right hook into the monster
red-head’s face. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My mouth gapes
open as the boy I’ve known most of my life defends me like no one else ever
has. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A hand grips my
shoulder and pulls me up off the floor. “Jesus, Lanie. Are you all right?” Cass
asks. “Thank God Noel showed up when he did.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m about to agree
with her just as the guys roll around in the hallway again and this time
Roger’s in control. Hell. No.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
This weird urge to
protect Noel comes over me. I fling myself on Roger’s back without thinking
ahead any further what I would do next. I wrap my arms around his neck and hold
on tight. Not getting anywhere, I get desperate and grab a handful of red hair
and yank as hard as I can. “Get off him!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I ignore the
distinct sound of tennis shoes scuffling on the tiled hallway as I tighten my
grip on his hair. There’s no way I’m letting anyone hurt Noel. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m pulled back
but I refuse to release my hold on Roger. “Young lady, let him go!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My head snaps in
the direction of lanky man with thinning brown hair I recognize as being my
English teacher, Mr. Jones. Then it dawns on me. Oh crap! I’m in deep shit. Dad
isn’t going to the let the fact that I’m involved in a fight on the first day
of school go without some sort of punishment. There’s always the argument I was
helping someone else that was getting bullied, even though that someone ran off
and would probably be too scared to side with me against Roger. Surely one of
these witnesses would attest to the fact this all began over Wendell and Roger
isn’t the innocent victim here. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I loosen my white
knuckles and Roger’s hair falls free from my hands. “Crazy bitch,” Roger
mumbles under his breath. “Umph!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I snicker as Noel
brings his knee back down from Roger’s groin, shutting him up completely. Roger
falls over cupping his crotch in the universal sign that a guy has been nailed
in the balls. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel stands and
kicks Roger in the stomach one time for good measure. “Don’t ever talk to her
that way again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Mr. Jones sets me
on my feet and turns to scolds the boys. “Knock it off and get to the
principals office.” I turn to head in the opposite direction, thinking I’m in
the clear because I’m a girl. “Not so fast. That means you too.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stop dead in my
tracks and turn slowly on my heel. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Damn. Can’t blame
me for trying. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel smoothes his
hair back, tucking the loose strands of hair behind his ear. He touches his
tongue to the corner of his mouth and I notice the small cut on his bottom lip.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I tilt my head as
I examine the rest of his face. “Are you okay?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He shakes his
fingers like he’s trying to get rid of the pain from landing a couple punches
to Roger’s thick skull. “I’ll be okay. What about you? I can’t believe you had
that in you to attack a guy like that. I haven’t seen you go after someone
since the third grade over a Barbie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shrug. “I
couldn’t let him hurt you.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel’s eyes search
my face and he swallows hard just as he takes a step towards me, nearly bumping
his chest into mine. “I know exactly how you feel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Y—you do?” Where is all this nervous energy
coming from? I’ve been in a closer proximity many times with Noel. Why does
this time feel different—like all the air around us is charged?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I said get to the
office,” Mr. Jones raises his voice causing me to jump and Noel wraps his arms
around me. “You two need to get to the office while I finish helping Roger up.
Don’t make me tell you again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel salutes the
teacher and I giggle at his new found attitude of anti-authority. I pull away
from Noel and turn towards the office. His steps fall in-line with mine and he
reaches down, threading his fingers through mine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He’s held my hand
before, but never like this. This moment feels like the beginning of something
beautiful. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Chapter 2<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">One Week Later…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">LANE<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The air is cool for
a September night in <st1:state w:st="on">Texas</st1:state>,
but my entire body is warm and alive with excitement. Sure, I’ve snuck out of
the house many nights before to meet Noel on this dock for a late night swim
before, but this is different. Things have certainly changed quite a bit over
the last week. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Somehow over the
summer we’ve gone from best friends to more. We’ve never really discussed this
new territory of hand holding and hugging that we’ve worked our way into or
what it means for us exactly. Maybe the subject will come up tonight. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
People at school
aren’t surprised, I guess. Everyone knows Noel and I are close, so our new bouts
of P.D.A don’t raise too many eyebrows. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Doesn’t mean we’re
ready to make our parents aware that our long-time friendship has blossomed
into more. They’d never let us be along together again. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I tip-toe down the
hill to the dock behind my house and allow my eyes to adjust in the moonlight.
At the end of the dock Noel leans against the wood railing of the dock with his
arms crossed against his chest, waiting for me. I’m not sure what tonight will
hold for us, I just know I can’t wait to see what unfolds. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A wide grin
stretches across his face the moment our eyes meet. The features on his face
are well defined like the new physic he acquired over the summer. His blue eyes
shimmer with excitement the moment my feet hit the wood on the dock and my
breath catches. Every time I see him now it’s like my heart skips a beat. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I bite my lip and
shove my hair behind my ear as Noel reaches his hand out to me. I slide mine
into it without hesitation and my stomach flips. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He pulls me into
his side. “I wasn’t sure if you were coming.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I tilt my head.
“Of course I was. Have I ever stood you up on this dock before?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He swallows hard
and pinches a lock of my long, brown hair before twirling it around his finger.
“No, but things are a little different now, aren’t they?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod and notice
my breathing picks up a notch. “About that…what are we doing?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel’s hand
trembles a little as he releases my hair and touches my cheek with his
fingertips. “I think it’s pretty clear.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I know exactly
what he’s getting at, but I want to hear him say it. “You think so?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He stands a little
straighter and cups my face in his hands while staring into my eyes. “We’re
falling in love and finally giving into what fate has planned for us.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My heart thuds
against my ribs. “Are you saying you love me?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The grin on his
face lights up my entire world. “You know I do. I think I’ve loved you since we
were five. I’m just the idiot who didn’t realize how much in love I was until
this summer when I found myself getting jealous over any guy I caught looking
at you. The feeling that you’re meant to be mine won’t leave me, and I don’t
know what to do about it or if you even feel the same way.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Is that why you stayed
away all summer?” I ask.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Yeah. I was
hoping it would go away and we could stay friends, but all that went to hell
that first day of school when I saw you and you needed me to help you. I knew
then I could never be just your friend. I’m always going to want more with you.
I feel like you’re my forever or something.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Emotions from
within me take over and tears well-up in my eyes. “It might’ve taken me a
little longer to come to the same conclusion, but I feel exactly the same way.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel’s thumbs
trace over my cheeks. “I love you, Lane.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I smile as a tear
falls free from my eye. “I love you too.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He leans in and
presses his lips to mine. My eyes drift shut and I fall into his kiss—fall into
him. This is everything I never knew I always wanted. His lips part and mine
move in sync with his until he finally slips his tongue in my mouth. This isn’t
my first kiss, but it is the first time I’ve ever felt something kissing a boy.
It’s like tasting my future and I can picture my entire life in my mind—a life
with Noel.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
With more skill
than I knew we both possessed, we slide down to the floor of the dock without
breaking our kiss. I grip hands full of his shirt and he teases the skin on my
back just under the hem of my blouse. This is moving entirely too fast, but I
can’t find a logical reason in my brain to stop the madness. Being so close to
Noel feels incredible and I don’t want it to end. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel lies back,
pulling me on top of him, allowing me to feel the bulge in his jeans against my
thigh. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m scared as
hell, but the way his lips move against the soft skin on my neck makes it a
little less intimidating. “We don’t have to go any further than you’re ready
for, Lane.” He says—his breath hot and tempting on my flesh.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I press a
feather-light kiss on his cheek. “I love you and I’m ready. We aren’t
strangers, and I can’t think of one other person I would rather experience all
my firsts with.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel tucks my hair
behind my ear. “I want to be your only.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
There’s no
fighting against that. That kind of magical romance is something all girls
dream about. I’m just lucky I’ve found my prince so soon. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I want you to be
my forever,” I tell him before he crushes his mouth to mine and we head into
our forever. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Chapter 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">End of Junior Year…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">NOEL<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The drums pound
out the last few beats of the song and I grin as I look at my band mates.
“Yeah! I think we finally nailed it!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Sam, the drummer
taps the high-hat with his drumstick. “Finally! It only took us fifteen tries.
You have to stop being such a fucking perfectionist, Noel, or well never have
enough of our own songs to make a demo. We can’t keep spending more than a
month on one song.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“We need to have
our shit together because after graduation next year we need to get on the road
and find paying gigs like we talked about,” I answer and then run my fingers
down the thread of the guitar. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“We need to play
more covers,” <st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region>
says, scratching the back of his shaggy head. “That’s what people want to
hear.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stare at the two
other guys in the band dumfounded. Sam pushes his glasses up the bridge of his
nose and glances toward <st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region>
as they wait on me to say something. Don’t they see that originality is
everything in the music business? Labels want bands that are different. We have
to stand out and be the best. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head
and smooth my dark hair back into my pony tail. “We’re going to practice our
own shit until our fingers bleed. We have to be on point if we want a record
deal. Don’t you guys want that?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region> shrugs and
sets his bass in its case. “We do, but we aren’t obsessed with it the way you
are.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I open my mouth to
protest, but Sam cuts me off. “Leon and I have been talking.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I narrow my eyes.
“About what?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Sam shoves his
fingers through his bright-red hair. “We aren’t going with you after
graduation.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head.
Unbelievable. These two jackasses are supposed to be my best friends—the guys
who have the same goal as me. “We’ve talked about this!” I throw my head back
and growl. “What the fuck, guys? I thought we were taking Thunder Dome on the
road as soon as schools over?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region> sighs and
his scrawny shoulders slump a bit. “I’m a senior, dude. My mom had me fill out
some college applications, and I got into a few, some offered scholarships. I’m
heading to <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">University</st1:placetype></st1:place> next fall on
nearly a full ride. I can’t pass that up.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Who gives a shit
about college, man? We have a great thing going here with this band. We could
really be something one day. Don’t you want that?” I argue. Why would anyone
pass on the opportunity to become a rock star verses going to college. That’s
so fucking lame. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I know you don’t
like it, Noel, but I’m applying to colleges as well. Music will always be
there. You should think about going too, and once we get done with school,
maybe we’ll try then.” I study the freckles on Sam’s face as he speaks and try
not to completely lose my shit while he’s talking.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
College will never
be an option for me. Never. It takes me five times longer to read something
than the rest of the kids in my L.D. class. Having Dyslexia hasn’t been a
fucking picnic in high school. Things get so jumbled in my brain and I know
there’s no way in hell I can make it through college courses. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m so glad Lane
and I are on the same page about this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Whatever. You
guys do whatever you feel like you have to do. I’m going on the road as planned
as soon as we graduate next year. Lane will travel with me while I play solo
shows until I find a band to hook up with.” Both guys look at each other with
an expression on their face that almost looks like pity and it makes my blood
boil. “You know what, fuck you guys!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Noel…” Sam tries
to stop me as I unplug my guitar and flip it around to rest against my back.
“Don’t be like that, man. We’re just trying to be honest with you. Do you know
what the odds are of us actually making it in the music industry? Slim to none.
I’m just trying to be realistic. We need to go to college. It’s the sensible
thing to do.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I throw my hands
on my hips. “"You know what's sensible? Following your dream when you have
the talent and the drive. I know I'm going to make it. It’s okay if you guys
don’t believe in me. Lane does, and she’s the only person I need to believe in
me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I turn to walk out
of the Sam’s garage just as <st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region>
says, “You don’t know Lanie as well as you think. Seems to me like you two have
different ideas about the future.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I whirl around.
“What’s that suppose to mean? I know my girlfriend—better than she knows
herself.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region> shrugs
indifferently. “Maybe you do, but that doesn’t explain why she was in the
guidance counselor’s office getting college applications today if she isn’t
planning on going.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head
and storm out the door. “Whatever.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I rub the back of
my neck as I walk towards my black Chevelle and pull the strap from around my
neck and lay the guitar along the backseat. Surely Lane would tell me if she
had doubts about the plan we’ve had in place since we became official our freshman
year. She wouldn’t just leave me hanging. We’re forever and there’s no way I
can spend years without her on the road. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I slam the door
once I’m inside and fire up the engine. It roars to life and the only thing on
my mind is finding out if <st1:place w:st="on">Leon</st1:place>’s
claim has legs. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A few minutes
later I park in Lane’s driveway. This place has been like a second home to me
since I was a little kid. I love her parents as if they are my own—another
reason why we are perfect for each other. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The white cape
code with a red roof, shutters and door fits perfectly into the scenery next to
<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Cedar</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Creek</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Lake</st1:placetype></st1:place>.
It looks happy, like Lane. I love living on the water, and someday when I’m a
famous rock star I’m going to buy a place on a lake for Lane and I to live in
and start a family. She’ll love that.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I knock on the
door and step back as Lane’s dad opens the door. He grins the moment he see’s
me. “Hi, Noel. How are you, son?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shove my hands
in the pockets of my jeans. “I’m fine, Jim. Is Lane here?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Jim scratches his
dark bearded jaw-line and nods. “She’s down at the dock, fishing, I think.
You’re welcome to grab a pole from the garage if you like.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Thanks. I think
I’ll do that.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Jim steps out of
the house, closing the door behind him, and pulls out a set of keys from his
pocket. “Let me unlock the man-door for you.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I follow Jim
inside the garage. It’s funny as a kid I thought he was a huge man, but now at
seventeen my height nearly matches his six foot frame. Time really does change
everything. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He hands me a
black rod. “She should have bait down there.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After I thank
Lane’s dad, I make my way down the hill to the dock. There’s always a certain
level of comfort that falls over me when I come out here. Most of the major
events in my life have taken place on this very dock—bonding with Lane, telling
her I loved her, and even our first time together has all happened out here.
This is most definitely our spot. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lay my pole down
and sneak down to where Lane sits on the edge, dangling her feet over the end.
I place my hands over her eyes. “Guess who?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She grins. “Um,
Ryan Reynolds.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I laugh and kiss
her cheek. “Fuck Ryan Reynolds. You’ve got Noel Falcon, and I’m much better.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I don’t know…”
she trails off in a sing-song voice. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s it,” I
growl and tackle her down to the dock and straddle her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lane squeals as I
tickle her ribs and kiss her neck. “Stop! You’re going to make me pee.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I laugh. “Never.
Not until you tell me I’m the best.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She tries to catch
her breath. “A little conceited, aren’t we?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Only when it
comes to you—I know I’m the best man for you.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She adjusts her
back against the wood and I smooth her hair back from her face. “You’ll get no
argument from me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I grin and lean in
and kiss her lips. “That’s good to know.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
As much as I want
to take this to the next level I know I can’t. Her parents could be watching us
out their back window and wouldn’t that be awkward for all of us. I pull back
and push myself up so I can sit next to her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After helping her
back up to a sitting position, I grab my pole and begin to poke around in the
tackle box to find some plastic bait. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“How was band
practice?” Lane asks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stiffen a bit,
knowing the fact that this conversation will probably lead to an argument, and
I hate when we fight. “Not good. The guys are both punking-out on going on the
road after graduation. Looks like it’ll just be me and you.” I cast my line
into the water and I notice Lane fidgets a bit. The best thing to do is get
things in the open. “<st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region>
has this crazy idea that you don’t want to go either. He’s not right, is he?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She doesn’t look
at me as she cranks her reel. “I want to go with you. You know that. But, I
think maybe going to college first is a pretty good idea.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I roll my eyes.
“Not you too. Come on, Lane. We’ve talked about this a million times. Don’t you
want freedom? The chance to go on the open road together before we have to face
all that grown-up shit, like bills that people always bitch about.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lane sighs. “It’s
not that easy, Noel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Yes it is, Lane.
Do you want to be with me or not?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Her head snaps in
my direction. “Of course I do. Why would you even say something like that?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Because if you
want to be with me, then we have to be together.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Then why don’t
you enroll in a college with me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head.
“You of all people know I can’t do that.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I’ll help you.”
She places her hand on my thigh. “We can get through school together just like
we do everything else.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Not college. I’m
not cut out for it and I can’t go. Not even for you.” The moment the words
leave my mouth I instantly regret them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lane’s face
twists. “You’re an asshole.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She shoves herself
up from the dock and takes off, sprinting towards her house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Fuck,” I curse
myself as I break into a full run to chase her down. She makes it half-way up
the hill before I grab her from behind and spin her around in my arms. Her
breaths are ragged and her olive skin flushes. “I’m an idiot. I’m sorry. You
know I didn’t mean it the way it sounded.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A tear streams
down her cheek. “I don’t get you, Noel. Is music so important to you that’d
you’d throw everything we have away to get it?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head,
but I know it would be a difficult choice. “No. You’re all that matters to me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Then show me,”
she whispers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I wipe away her
tears with my thumbs before I press my lips to hers. “I will.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Chapter 4</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">One Year Later—Graduation Night…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%;">NOEL<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
There are at least
ten parties going on tonight, and we’re going to make our rounds, but first,
Lane wants me to meet her on the dock for a private celebration. I grin to
myself knowing this will be the last night we have to hide in order to have
sex. This time tomorrow Lane and I will be out on the open road, making our way
with no solid plan, going in whatever direction the music takes us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I know she has her
doubts. She expresses them nearly everyday, but I know she doesn’t really mean them.
Once I get her out on the road everything will be fine. I just have to prove it
to her that I can make it as a musician. I want her to be proud of me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She’s already
waiting for me at the end of the dock. Her long brown hair falls in waves
around her shoulders. The loose strands blow idly in the light breeze coming in
off the lake. A tight jean skirt and cream color shirt accentuates the deep tan
she’s already gotten even though it’s only the beginning of summer. My girl is
so damn beautiful. I’m a very lucky guy. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Excitement
overtakes me and I rush down and scoop her up in my arms, lifting her off the
ground. “We did it, babe. Can you believe it?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She laughs in my
arms. “I’m so proud of you, Noel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nuzzle my nose
into her hair. “Not as proud as I am of you. You aced every single test they
threw at you. You’re a fucking geniuses. When I become a famous rock star, I’ll
pay for your tuition—anywhere you want to go.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Noel—”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I cut her off, not
allowing her a chance to argue with me. “Anywhere. I won’t take no for an
answer.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lane frowns. “I
can’t let you do that.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I furrow my brow.
“Of course you can. You’ll deserve it. It’ll make the little bit of struggle we
have to go through at first totally worth it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Noel—” I cut her
off again while I go on about the fancy house and cars I’m going to buy her,
and she pushes on my chest.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I frown and set
her on her feet. “What’s wrong?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Her delicate
fingers rub her forehead before running through her hair. “I don’t know how to
tell you this.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I trail my hand up
the bare skin on her arm and then stop when it reaches a strand of her hair. I
wrap it around of my finger suddenly nervous about what she has to say. There’s
a slight quiver in her voice, and that’s never a good sign. That only happens
to her when she’s nervous, and there’s not one thing she should be nervous to
tell me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lick my lips.
“Whatever it is, just tell me. We’ll get through it together.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lane shakes her
head. “This time we won’t.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I take her face in
my hands and force her to look into my eyes. “Lane, you’re not making any
sense.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She closes her
eyes. “This is so hard.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I feel her tense
under my touch as a tear falls down her face and my heart falls to the pit of
my stomach. Lane never cries and it’s something I can’t stand to see. “Please
don’t cry. Baby, I’ll fix it. Whatever it is, I’ll fix it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She opens her
green eyes and stares at me, her eyes searching my face for answers. “Don’t
leave tomorrow.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I flinch. “The way
you just said that makes it sound like I’ll be leaving by my self.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You will be if
you go,” she whispers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head.
“No. You promised you were going with me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I can’t go with
you, Noel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I drop my hands
from her face. “What do you mean, you can’t? We talked about this since
freshman year.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Exactly,” she
cries. “We had no clue what we were talking about back then. Things change,
Noel. I don’t know why this is such a huge shock to you. I’ve been telling you
for the last year that I want to go to college.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I didn’t think
you were serious. Damn, Lane. Why are you waiting until just now to tell me
this? We had a plan.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“<i>You</i> had a plan. Not me. Not one time
have you asked me what I wanted!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I close my eyes
and pinch the bridge of my nose. “Yes I have.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“No. No you
haven’t. Have you heard anything I said about going to college and living in a
dorm?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I heard you. I
just didn’t think you were serious.” I sigh. “I can’t believe you’d pick going
to college over being with me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s the same
way I feel every time you pick music over me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I never pick
music over you!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“No? If I won’t go
with you, are you going to go anyway?” she challenges.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Yes! Because
that’s been our plan,” I raise my voice, completely frustrated by this
blindside. “Music is my fucking life. You know that. It’s all I have.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You had me.” Lane
bites her plump, bottom lip as forces a cry back. “Then this is the end for
us.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My heart squeezes
so hard in my chest that panic starts setting in. “Please, Lane. Don’t do
this.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She kisses my
cheek. “Goodbye, Noel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My body turns
completely numb as she turns and runs away from me. I should pull it together
and go after her and force her to understand and try harder at convincing her
to come with me, but I can’t move. The idea that Lanie Vance is no longer mine
hits me hard and I drop to my knees, shaking uncontrollably. I grab my hair in
my hands and allow myself to cry for the loss of the only girl I’ll ever really
love. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-30591974491183957372014-12-31T12:00:00.000-05:002014-12-31T12:00:08.178-05:00New Year's Author Hop Giveaway!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">EPIC NEW YEAR’S GIVEAWAY!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">This New Year’s we have a lot to be thankful for. As 2014
comes to a close, I want to celebrate with you by offering you a special secret
giveaway as part of this epic Author Hop with 50 bestselling authors! It’s a
total surprise, and I won’t tell you until I pick a winner. Plus, it is so easy
to win!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">Go to my Facebook Page to enter:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_1182448350"> </a></span></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichelleAValentine">https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichelleAValentine</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="hascaption"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">LIKE, COMMENT with your New Year’s resolution, SHARE, and
TAG some friends for extra entries! This giveaway is open for 24 hours!! </span></span><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<br />
<span class="textexposedshow">Then hop on over
to E.K. Blair's page </span></span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/EKBlairAuthor">https://www.facebook.com/EKBlairAuthor</a></span><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span class="textexposedshow"> and enter the next giveaway!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
<span class="textexposedshow">For a complete
list of all the participants in the hop and to make sure you’ve enter for all
the go to K.A. Linde’s page (</span></span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/authorkalinde"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">https://www.facebook.com/authorkalinde</span></a><span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;">).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapUyQVsXZKNw0oRLUem2IAd783qxKJXXoOQZxY-BcseUkTTNPhAmuJwB0c4qjSA_zzWhH5Cu4h6SfyQvJaboPY-Ph0gk7BuZzwsQzzGYsQAMxjq3oiqGA6c-Z37RtlS9BdnRRkE-kozA/s1600/author+hop+live+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapUyQVsXZKNw0oRLUem2IAd783qxKJXXoOQZxY-BcseUkTTNPhAmuJwB0c4qjSA_zzWhH5Cu4h6SfyQvJaboPY-Ph0gk7BuZzwsQzzGYsQAMxjq3oiqGA6c-Z37RtlS9BdnRRkE-kozA/s1600/author+hop+live+(2).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="textexposedshow"><span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-38962755245425210552014-12-29T12:00:00.000-05:002014-12-29T12:00:04.790-05:00New Year's Author Hop Giveaway Announcement!<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">SURPRISE!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="normal">
<br /></div>
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">I’m so happy to announce that on New Year’s Eve I have partnered up
with 50 bestselling authors for an epic New Year’s Author Hop Giveaway!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="normal">
<br /></div>
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">On Wednesday, December 31<sup>st</sup> watch out for my page and a
large group of your favorites to post a huge secret giveaway! All 50 of the
authors are going to be giving away something special, and we have set it up so
that it is so easy to click from one author’s page to the next to enter!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="normal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">We all wanted to end the year on a high note by giving back to you!
Thank you all so much for a great year and remember to look out for the
giveaway on Wednesday!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">XOXO</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Michelle</span></div>
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_pdzodIgufSk0ohJM1PmirDlc9nENF_NkBKAsv-_OsZlp_w1UoaFr3-RDxDJ6e9uy0tyir3TSvQb5pmlNWl0fdtxXksMMAzuLlpAhEXtJ05COT2CUMVRfZklu3024v8EmrriMPcSR7A/s1600/authorhopreveal+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN_pdzodIgufSk0ohJM1PmirDlc9nENF_NkBKAsv-_OsZlp_w1UoaFr3-RDxDJ6e9uy0tyir3TSvQb5pmlNWl0fdtxXksMMAzuLlpAhEXtJ05COT2CUMVRfZklu3024v8EmrriMPcSR7A/s1600/authorhopreveal+(2).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Garamond; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-934907876604977632014-12-15T15:38:00.000-05:002015-01-19T22:44:00.703-05:00NAUGHTY KING (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One)<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">NAUGHTY KING (A Sexy Manhattan Fairytale: Part One)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">The King Always Gets His Way.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Women, business, pleasure: When I want it, I get it.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I’m never denied.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Including her.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I will break her. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I will show her who the king of this city really is. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">The Feisty Princess of Manhattan will learn I am not a man that can be tempted.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">No matter how fucking bad I want her in my bed.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">**Book One in a Three Part Erotic Romance Series.**</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Super Naughty New Series From NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author Michelle A. Valentine (Rock the Heart, Phenomenal X, Demon at My Door). </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ViQnHzfn712_DVuxt3v050gDi3CZy3-_Yf5PtsTnBQc/viewform">BLOGGERS ARC signup HERE! </a></span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Coming Early 2015</span></span></h2>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4x5_2zBTqK5h3645IwlIIqYau3zOqLP3zh3TdVHDAX1lpJSlb4G10KF2TcDIeNTUC977kY2iYowaV-MZcVqZv3XBHxyfasLdpodOMPtcTHRiBDGt9yKC7B5uZ78X-lApQV1FUbIJyfI0/s1600/KingBookCover5x8+(3)%2BFINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4x5_2zBTqK5h3645IwlIIqYau3zOqLP3zh3TdVHDAX1lpJSlb4G10KF2TcDIeNTUC977kY2iYowaV-MZcVqZv3XBHxyfasLdpodOMPtcTHRiBDGt9yKC7B5uZ78X-lApQV1FUbIJyfI0/s1600/KingBookCover5x8+(3)%2BFINAL.jpg" height="640" width="396" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23644021-naughty-king"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4HqwKWHa9cD5Ms6mfODRQmoVF5oZIlMDGhIAnJ3UYkncyFFM47lfJyM6dUBpDa88dDNMxdLhZgj435s20Qk86BGtYSx8O50kdi3HET6vJGOnmpfM2gMQOedpXz2Y9mo92C7luesgH-E/s1600/add-to-goodreads-button.png" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-35056738122673404422014-12-11T12:51:00.000-05:002014-12-11T13:05:10.814-05:00Read Rock My Body's First Chapters<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t"
path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:formulas>
<v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/>
<v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/>
<v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/>
<v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/>
</v:formulas>
<v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
<o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:431.25pt;
height:362.25pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\MCELFR~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image001.emz"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHs-f8jPJYJJrVQcBhNJZEP9h3JCr7pWmW_0p19b-fy6BoumYTcqTKbaunVHPr6yDnQMnYtY5srR-Aeh1_zbkyVWpoVxqVxZuq-8aBBgSLGGc0IBZS_z8P251S4KiB9CeF__zNJ6Tj7c/s1600/960981_250932925063633_420187397_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHs-f8jPJYJJrVQcBhNJZEP9h3JCr7pWmW_0p19b-fy6BoumYTcqTKbaunVHPr6yDnQMnYtY5srR-Aeh1_zbkyVWpoVxqVxZuq-8aBBgSLGGc0IBZS_z8P251S4KiB9CeF__zNJ6Tj7c/s1600/960981_250932925063633_420187397_n.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7W2juS_VtWc-rSMtER1vl-bsguzCKwd_bf86_AWrcvwYjZIZtA9Cc7K5PGiPY-3X5uys1BjNBf2CRaWJpMZbStpMQNrz-OKwbS1pXiZIg6Wd758CTNNXEH6pzXsKVfUGRV_ksz0vc1Q/s1600/prolog+chap+heading.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7W2juS_VtWc-rSMtER1vl-bsguzCKwd_bf86_AWrcvwYjZIZtA9Cc7K5PGiPY-3X5uys1BjNBf2CRaWJpMZbStpMQNrz-OKwbS1pXiZIg6Wd758CTNNXEH6pzXsKVfUGRV_ksz0vc1Q/s1600/prolog+chap+heading.JPG" height="284" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background: rgb(252, 249, 249); font-size: 11.5pt;">“Rage, rage against the
dying of the light” – Dylan Thomas</span><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt;">“Coming
Down” – Five Finger Death Punch<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 184.3pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;">One Year
Ago…<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcrhG5J_Bbn6bStz0NX9ibMfQNNq2BYRNpbVx2UNhP5sitbk3yGbqPzypKK21jhCciX7csT2d9C4AMItOhSNlivl4IA1BwbPMGTHcrWEP2hUxR1GpaVa36tvMuRg_pLrJ9c3q3JsCuOs/s1600/Tyke+name.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcrhG5J_Bbn6bStz0NX9ibMfQNNq2BYRNpbVx2UNhP5sitbk3yGbqPzypKK21jhCciX7csT2d9C4AMItOhSNlivl4IA1BwbPMGTHcrWEP2hUxR1GpaVa36tvMuRg_pLrJ9c3q3JsCuOs/s1600/Tyke+name.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod my head to
the beat, glad that, for once, we are in our element in playing to a sold-out
crowd. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m not exactly
sure where everything started falling apart. Wait...that’s a lie. I know <i>exactly</i> when my blissful happiness began
to deteriorate. It was the day Riff brought a woman on our bus for a long-term
stay. A woman who fucked everything up and started Black Falcon on our downward
spiral. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
One day things
were great—every guy in the band practically floating on cloud nine and all
that shit—but somehow in the midst of our happiness and living out our
life-long dream, things turned to shit. Sophie, Riff’s temporary
fuck-of-the-month, single handedly drove a wedge into our foundation and rocked
our ship by claiming she one-nighted Noel and was knocked up by him. For a
while, I wasn’t even sure if the band would make it, but we did, ironically,
with the help of two women, Lanie Vance and Aubrey Jenson. They were all right
chicks at first, but eventually became thorns in my side too. Noel and Riff are
so lovesick; they can’t see that their constant need to “<i>take a break</i>” for “<i>family
time</i>” is destroying us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My twin brother,
Trip, used to look at the situation like I do. He wasn’t happy about the
disappearing acts that both Noel and Riff insisted on pulling all the damn
time. That was until my baby brother took it upon himself to seek out other
interests besides the band. He not only found a dirt bike track to invest his
money into, he also found a chick to invest his time into. He had to go and
fall for the fucking track owner’s daughter, Holly. After that, he had a change
of heart, and started empathizing with my other bandmates. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Fucking pussies. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
All of them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Black Falcon might
as well be a label-made band like those Embrace the Darkness douchebags who are
always trying to upstage us and ride our coattails. Like them, we don’t really
give a fuck about each other anymore. Seems like this band is nothing more than
a paycheck, which is sad. When we all vibe well together, magic truly happens. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip pounds out
the last few beats of the song and the crowd explodes, instantly begging for
more. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
This is what I
love. There isn’t any other feeling like it in the world. Nothing can ever top
this rush, but because our performances are so few and far between, I’ve been
forced to find other things that really get my blood pumping. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
When my eyes lock
with my twin’s green ones, we both have the biggest grins on our face, I know
he loves this, too—the euphoric energy from the crowd.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
How can he not
miss this?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
How can he put
anything above this? How can any of them?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Our band’s front
man, Noel Falcon, chuckles into the mic as he stares out into the crowd. “Damn.
You fuckers are insane. We’ve got one more song left for you.” He pauses,
running his hand through his dark hair, giving the twenty thousand bodies here
to see us perform time to respond, their screaming getting louder and louder.
“I feel the love.” He readjusts his mic stand. “Since we’re all friends here,
I’m gonna tell you all a little story about a girl who shredded my heart back
in high school without any hesitation. It’s called ‘Ball Busting Bitch’. If
you’ve ever had your heart fucked over by a woman, sing along.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel smirks and
the laughter in his eyes is evident. Ever since he married Lanie Vance, it’s
pretty funny to see him keep up appearances with this song—even though he’s
madly in love with that ball buster. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip kicks up the
beat, and I thump away on the strings of my bass, creating our signature dark
and dirty beat while we wait on Riff to join us, who makes the lead guitar
scream like a woman in heat. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I close my eyes as
the rhythm of our biggest hit pulses through my body. Music is the one thing I
can completely lose myself in. When I’m in the moment, feeling the beat, I’m
untouchable; nothing else matters but the way each note engulfs my soul,
scorching itself onto me permanently, reminding me that music is what I live
for. It’s what I was born to do. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I slide my fingers
down the thick strings, finding the sweet spot, and slap them hard with the
thumb on the opposite hand. My head rocks back and forth as I play the hell out
of the song. I can’t remember a time that we’ve ever sounded better. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Surely, they’ll
want to celebrate like old times after this show—the four of us together,
cracking open a few cold ones and just being <i>together</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
That’s what I miss
the most. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The final notes in
the song play out, ending our forty-five minute set, and Noel shouts, “You’ve
all been a fucking beautiful crowd. Thank you!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
As soon as my eyes
snap open, they land on my brother, tossing his drumsticks into the crowd while
Noel and Riff exit the stage. And just like that, the song disappears, taking
my euphoria along with it, and the warmth I was just feeling is completely gone
from my heart, replaced by an arctic chill. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
What’s their big
fucking hurry? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I set my bass down
on the stand and follow Trip off the stage. The remnants of the crowd’s energy
still linger in my veins, and I’m ready to burn it off and party with my
buddies. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I throw my arm
around my twin’s neck as we make our way backstage. “Where are we partying
tonight, baby brother?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip shakes his
head and smiles as his eyes drift off like he’s thinking of something else.
“Can’t, man. Holly just flew in, and she’s waiting for me at the hotel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I sigh and pull my
arm away. “You suck. Can’t you see her after we go out for a while? I need my
wingman.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Wish I could, but
I can’t let my girl down. Besides, it’s been two weeks since I’ve seen her.” He
gives me a quick jab to the ribs. “Stop frowning, Sunshine. We’ll do something
soon. Promise.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I roll my eyes.
“That’s what you always say, but it never fucking happens. Just go the fuck
back to your girl and forget about me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip’s brow
furrows. “What the fuck’s with the attitude? Are you pissed that I’m happy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My lip rises as my
face contorts with disgust. “No, I’m not <i>pissed</i>
that you’re happy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Then what the
fuck is the problem? You’ve been nothing but a drunken asshole most of the time
I’m around lately, so why in the hell do you even care that I want to spend
some time with my girl? It’s obvious that you’re perfectly capable of partying
on your own. You don’t need me for that.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I blow out a rush
of air through my nose. Starting a fight with him wasn’t my intention. But
doesn’t he see what spending all his time with his woman is doing to the band? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Do any of them
see?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Jesus, it’s like
we have three fucking Yoko Onos, yet no one sees the problem here except me.
These women are dictating the future of this band. It’s all going to fall
apart, but it’s like all of them are too fucking pussy-whipped to see it
happening right before their own eyes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel and Riff walk
over toward us, both wearing perplexed expressions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“What are you two
dipshits fighting over now?” Riff mocks. “Can’t you assholes just kiss and make
up. The tension between you two lately has been fucking ridiculous. What’s up?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip shakes his
head. “Nothing’s wrong. My brother is just acting like a chick here, crying
about how I never spend time with him anymore.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I scrub my hand
down my face, not wanting to waste any more of my time. “Fuck it. I’m out of
here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I can’t get into
this with them. None of them will ever see things like I do, so there’s no
point in even trying to reason with them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I turn toward the
exit, and I hear the guys calling my name but don’t bother to turn around. If
none of them care what happens to Black Falcon then why should I? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’m done being the
goddamn babysitter of the group: keeping everyone on task and writing eighty
percent of the music. It’s time I start living <i>my</i> life and forget I give a fuck, too. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGHHMTz3KMtBoqGadeGFDjlgllsvN1_LH2t6MsWSdTR3l5xj59okh2LD4F2b9tx4zo_66XC6FYLM9gRPUa-fPdDDnnbWMCWTQqQL4rugnS1h_J_OcWMueH3TiZsJXa1Rtwm_s7kIZ1CU/s1600/music+note+dividers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGHHMTz3KMtBoqGadeGFDjlgllsvN1_LH2t6MsWSdTR3l5xj59okh2LD4F2b9tx4zo_66XC6FYLM9gRPUa-fPdDDnnbWMCWTQqQL4rugnS1h_J_OcWMueH3TiZsJXa1Rtwm_s7kIZ1CU/s1600/music+note+dividers.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1026" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:224.25pt;height:55.5pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\MCELFR~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image003.emz"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The pounding in my
skull is relentless. Holy fuck. What in the hell did I get myself into last
night? The last thing I remember is being at the club that Lou, one of the
roadies, dragged me to. Everything else is fuzzy as shit. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I rub my eyes as I
try to remember, but a loud buzz echoes around the room and keeps me from
focusing on anything but the God-awful sound.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<i>What the fuck?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I peel my eyes
open and blink hard as my gaze lands first, on a brick wall, then, a small
window with bars on it. I push myself up slowly, studying the unusual window as
I try to get my bearings. After my eyes slide around every inch of the room and
find nothing but bars surrounding me, blocking my freedom, my heart rate kicks
up a notch, and the panic sets in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
How in the hell
did I wind up in <i>jail</i>? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I push myself to
my feet and wobble a split second before I regain my balance. Whatever I drank
last night is still obviously in my system. My feet shuffle toward the bars,
and I wrap my fingers around the cold steel. I strain my neck to look down the
long hall, but all I hear is the sound of other prisoners talking. I need some
answers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I press my head
against the bars. “Guards? Hey? Guards!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Heavy footsteps
fall down the concrete hallway, each step coming closer to the small cell I’m
stuck in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A gray-haired
guard dressed in a dark blue uniform that’s a size too small wears a scowl on
his plump face as he sets his stern eyes on me. “You need something?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My shoulders
stiffen, and I’m instantly riled by his tone, especially considering I don’t
have the foggiest idea why I’m here. “Yeah. What in the hell am I in here for?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The guard sighs
heavily. “DUI. We picked you up last night on I-95 swerving all over the
lanes.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My shoulders slack
and I push back from the bars but still hang on and drop my head. “Fuck. Does
my brother know to come and get me?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Doubtful. You
were too toasted to make your phone call last night. You kept fighting us off
you, so we tossed you in here to sleep it off. You’re welcome to that call any
time. Call anyone you’d like.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I take a deep
breath. When Trip finds out about this, he’s going to flip his shit. Usually,
I’m the one thinking about how things like this will affect the band, not
him—hell, not any of the others. Riff is known for giving out golden tickets to
chicks who hang out backstage to sleep with him. Trip never gives two shits
about anything, and Noel…well, he’s no angel either. Back in the day, me
getting this DUI would’ve just been something we laughed off, but now that
they’re all on the straight and narrow, I imagine they’ll give me the third
degree over this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
But what choice do
I have? Who else can I call? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After a long
moment, I push away from the bars and look the guard in the eye. “I think I’ll
make that call now.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A few hours later,
I’m finally at the front desk, gathering all the personal items I had on me
when I was booked. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“One wallet, a set
of keys, two hundred and fifteen dollars in cash, four guitar picks, a sheet of
folded up paper, and one cell phone,” the middle-aged brunette clerk says as
she hands me all the items. “Sign here and here, and you’ll be on your way.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I scribble my name
in the sections she’s marked and gather my things. Before I can even turn
around, I feel Trip’s eyes, judging me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I head toward the
door, Trip close on my heels. Once we’re outside, my brother clears his throat.
“I called the rental car company to come pick up their car from the impound
lot. Kyle is waiting around the side with the Escalade to take us to the
airport.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I raise my
eyebrows. “That’s it? No big lecture?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip sighs. “What
do you want me to say, Tyke? Do you really need me to tell you how much you
fucked up? How bad this is going to look for the band? You know better than
anyone this isn’t good fucking PR, so why voice it? As long as I can remember,
you’ve been the stable one. I’m sure this isn’t going to happen again. You
always do what’s best for the band. It was a one-time mistake. We all make
them.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Glad to hear you
actually still care about the band.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip flinches.
“What the fuck is that supposed to mean? When have I ever <i>not</i> cared?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head.
“Come on, brother. Don’t act like you don’t know what I’m talking about. No one
has cared for a while now, including you. You guys spend all of your time with
your women and leave all the work to me. I’m the one writing all the songs while
Noel and Riff are off being husbands and fathers and you’re out there playing
house. Do you think that’s fair? You guys get to fuck around and not give a
shit about the future of this band?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He licks the
corner of his mouth as he huffs. “Fuck you, Tyke. Just because we settled down
and found other interests, don’t think for one goddamn minute that we don’t
care about the band anymore. Nothing with the band has changed. <i>You’re</i> the one who’s changed.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Anger boils inside
me. Is he really that blind? Can he not see how so much has changed in the year
since Noel and Riff got married, and he got with Holly? I love my brother. I
don’t want to lose him, but I’m not going to stand here attempting to make him
see my side when I know it’s a lost cause. I’d be better off beating my head
against a brick wall. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You’re right,
Trip. Things are most definitely different and are going to change even fucking
more.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Without another
word, I turn on my heel and walk away from my baby brother. It’s not the best
option, but it’s the only one I’ve got. Whatever it takes, I’m going show the
rest of these guys that they’re letting this band die. And despite what they
think, I’m the only one fighting to keep us together. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1mk7C4-1g0miBgFbesHCFuD1SMXNpO2Rd5HMoTt3CevSRKMTgFbupFsbBktPlQ4nATCql6PeBRxcu7VL2mX2vKct5_6KpeiYiAJmFG3DWbBqz5lShKUNebYZz4LY4RBmrsK7PQNDMBY/s1600/chapter+1+header.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1mk7C4-1g0miBgFbesHCFuD1SMXNpO2Rd5HMoTt3CevSRKMTgFbupFsbBktPlQ4nATCql6PeBRxcu7VL2mX2vKct5_6KpeiYiAJmFG3DWbBqz5lShKUNebYZz4LY4RBmrsK7PQNDMBY/s1600/chapter+1+header.JPG" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75"
style='width:6in;height:324pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\MCELFR~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image005.emz"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> “Evil Twin” – Arctic Monkeys<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Present Day<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcrhG5J_Bbn6bStz0NX9ibMfQNNq2BYRNpbVx2UNhP5sitbk3yGbqPzypKK21jhCciX7csT2d9C4AMItOhSNlivl4IA1BwbPMGTHcrWEP2hUxR1GpaVa36tvMuRg_pLrJ9c3q3JsCuOs/s1600/Tyke+name.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcrhG5J_Bbn6bStz0NX9ibMfQNNq2BYRNpbVx2UNhP5sitbk3yGbqPzypKK21jhCciX7csT2d9C4AMItOhSNlivl4IA1BwbPMGTHcrWEP2hUxR1GpaVa36tvMuRg_pLrJ9c3q3JsCuOs/s1600/Tyke+name.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Fuck.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I’ve done it
again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I turn my head and
survey my surroundings. Four white hotel walls and a horrible painting of a man
fishing in a pond are the first things that come into my hazy line of sight.
The second thing is the blonde knocked out cold next to me, her tits hanging
half out her shirt. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Damn. What in the
hell did I do last night? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I squeeze my eyes
shut while the pounding in my skull beats continuously. Raising my hand,
desperate to pinch the bridge of my nose to ease the pain, my arm stops far
short of my face. My gaze snaps down to my wrists, bound at my sides with a
thin rope, and I yank my arm, attempting to move my feet as well without much
luck. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
What in the hell? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My heart thunders
in my chest as my foggy brain quickly pulls together that someone has no
intentions of allowing me to leave this bed. Panic rolls over me when I can’t
recall whom I came here with, or even how I got here. As much as I hate to
admit it, Trip was right—some chick has finally gone all <i>Misery</i> on my ass.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I survey the knot
tied in the rope. It doesn’t look like it’ll be that difficult to loosen, if I
can just figure out a way to get my hands on it. Twisting my wrist side to
side, I attempt to wiggle out, but it’s no use. It’s tied too tight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shift beneath
the sheet that’s draped over me, and realize I’m completely fucking naked. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Shit. Being naked
and tied to a bed is never a good thing. This isn’t going to end well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The bathroom door
opens and I freeze, unsure of what the hell might be walking toward me. A
slender brunette in a black mask with a great set of tits struts into the room
wearing a tight leather outfit that wraps her body like a glove. As if the
outfit wasn’t over-the-top enough, she’s also toting a black whip in her left
hand, alongside an expression that screams she’s ready to inflict some major
pain. I tense at the sight of her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<i>What in the holy fuck have I gotten myself
into?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I yank my wrists,
attempting to free myself, and the woman cusses at me in Spanish, clearly
unhappy with my change of heart. “Hijo de puta!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
It only takes a
split second for me to recognize the voice before I burst out laughing,
instantly relaxing against the stark-white sheets. “Gabby, what the fuck?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Her lip pokes out
in a distinct pout as she pulls the mask off, revealing her smooth, tan
complexion. Her big brown eyes complement her perfectly round face and button
nose, reminding me of just how attractive she is. “Aww, come on, Tyke. I’m not
done playing yet. Don’t you want to have some more fun with her? She was a good
sport.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The woman next to
me continues to breathe softly, and while I’m positive that this woman provided
great entertainment for Gabby and I last night, I can’t remember a damn thing
about it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
There’s no time to
try to remember it though, because the moment I sit up a little straighter, the
sun’s harsh rays poke through the thick drapes, letting me know I’m already
late. “Can’t. I have a band meeting at one.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Gabby’s harsh
laugh cuts across the room as her lithe fingers work at the knots in the rope.
“Hate to break it to you, slick, but that ship has sailed. It’s nearly three.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I sit up once I’m
free and rub my wrists. “Fuck. The guys are going to be pissed. I’ve blown off
the last three or four band meetings. Doing it again isn't going to sit well
with them.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Gabby sits at the
small desk in the room and fixes a line on the mirror for herself before
snorting it up her nose. “Fuck ’em. Those douchebags need to learn to fend for
themselves.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Don’t, Gabby,” I
warn, not liking her putting the guys down. It’s one thing for me to do it, but
someone else baggin’ on them pisses me off. They’re my brothers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I roll out of bed
and grab my jeans off the floor, quickly yanking them up on my hips. There’s no
sign of my underwear, but whatever; I’m not about to waste my time looking for
them. I have to get the fuck out. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The blonde rolls
over onto her back, and I freeze just as I pull my black T-shirt over my head.
When she doesn’t wake, I turn to Gabby. “You taking care of this one?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She nods and wipes
her nose, but a small dusting of white powder still remains. “Yeah. I’ll check
her phone for any pictures and videos and then call her a cab.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I fasten my belt
and then slip my feet into my boots. “Good. No more groupies with sex tapes of
us. That shit didn’t go well last time.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She laughs. “Speak
for yourself. That fucking tape got my band noticed and put on tour with Black
Falcon.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I roll my eyes.
“Just check her shit before she leaves. Trip and Noel will blow their fucking
tops if I keep bringing the band down with negative publicity.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
This time she
rolls her eyes at me. “Whatever. I forgot what a Debbie fucking Downer you are
when you sober up. You want a bump before you go?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My nose twitches
in anticipation, and while I know I should say no, I can’t help myself. Gabby
puts a small amount of coke between her index finger and thumb and raises her
hand to me. “You know you want to.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I pull her hand up
to my face and quickly snort every last bit of nose candy; the white powder
stinging as it coats the warm, moist skin inside my nasal passages, sending me
on a near-instant high in the process. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I close my eyes as
every nerve in me comes alive, making me forget why the fuck I felt so anxious
a few moments ago. I lean against the desk next to Gabby and she looks up at me
and smiles, nodding over to the chick still sleeping in the king-size bed. “You
wanna play?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Gabby runs her
hand down my torso, my toned abs flexing beneath my shirt in response to her
touch. She pauses at my belt and yanks it open before allowing the tips of her
fingers to rub against the growing erection inside my jeans. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A wicked grin
crosses her face as she licks her lips. “I’ll take that as a yes.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Unable to resist
her, I give in and grab the nape of her neck, pulling her a little more roughly
than I mean to out of the chair. I yank her slender body flush with mine. “Why
the fuck do I let you do this? You’re no good for me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She bats her long
lashes at me, attempting to look innocent. “Because you like getting crazy.
Because you were bored out of your fucking skull until I came around. Because,
deep down inside, you’re tired of being the scapegoat for the other guys in
Black Falcon, and you’re done being their bitch.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I flinch at her
cold words. “Fuck you, Gabby. I’m no one’s bitch.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Except mine,” she
purrs. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shove her away.
“Especially not yours.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I refasten my belt
as I turn and head for the door. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Tyke…” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t bother
turning around. Good time or not, there’s no way in hell I’m going to be talked
down to by a chick I’ve known for three months. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Who the fuck does
she think she is?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
If it weren’t for
a groupie catching me drunk fucking Gabby after a show and blasting it all over
the web, she and her band, Sex Arsenal, would still be playing small dive bar
gigs with a weak-ass following. Now that bitch has the nerve to insinuate I’m a
pussy? Fuck her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t need her.
There are plenty of other people to party with. Her pussy isn’t made out of
gold, and I damn sure never made a fucking commitment to her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She’s a chick I
like to get high with and fuck—that’s it. Nothing more. She better not have it
in her head that we are more than that.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Jesus.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
When the elevator
opens up to the lobby, the full effect of the afternoon sun begins to assault
my eyes and I flinch, fishing my sunglasses from my pocket and slipping them on
my face. The moment I’m outside I pat my pockets, hoping to find some car keys,
but I have no such luck. I obviously didn’t drive myself over here last night.
Actually, I have no fucking clue where in the hell I am. Reaching into my back
pocket, I whip out my phone and use the GPS feature on it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Orlando</st1:place>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Thank God I’m
still in the right city. We play the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Amway</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> tonight to a sold
out crowd. At least I know I can still make it there on time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The young valet
approaches me with a pen and paper in hand. The small cluster of pimples on his
forehead does nothing to conceal his youth, and the eager smile on his face
tells me one thing: he’s a fan. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Excuse me? I hate
to bother you, but you’re in Black Falcon, aren’t you?” he asks in a voice
that’s just above a timid whisper. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shove my glasses
a little further up my nose. “Yep. Sure am.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He stretches his
arms toward me. “Can I have your autograph?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I take the pen and
small notepad from him. “Sure, kid. Can you get me a cab?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He nods vigorously
as he takes back the signed paper. “No problem!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
While he scurries
off, I check the messages on my phone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Trip: Where the fuck are you?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Trip: Goddamn it. This shit is getting old.
It’s not cool to take off and not tell anyone where you are. I need to talk to
you.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Trip: ?????<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The final text
catches my attention.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b>Trip: I hope you at least show up tonight.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My brow furrows at
that comment. I’ve only ever missed a couple shows, and I felt like a total
piece of shit for doing it. I hadn’t realized we had a few early shows and may
have been sleeping off the previous night’s activities. It wasn’t like I missed
them on purpose, and yet that’s all Trip ever seems to remember lately. He’s
conveniently forgotten all the times I’ve saved their asses. I fuck up and I
never get to live it down. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I fire back a text
telling him I’ll be there and slip my phone back in my pocket, just in time to
hop in the cab that’s pulled up. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The ride over to
the arena is pretty quick, which sucks. It used to excite me to spend time with
my boys, but now I fucking dread it. None of us are on the same page anymore.
Everyone is going in different directions, and our communication is shit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Pulling up to the
arena, I text Kyle to meet me out back and get me in through the crowd that’s
already building. I don’t have a scrap of proof that I’m with the band and
security can be real dicks if you don’t have a pass. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“How much longer?”
the cabbie asks after five minutes of me refusing to get out until I see Kyle. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Chill, dude. I’m
good for it. Trust me.” He glances at me through the rearview mirror, and I can
tell he’s having some serious doubts about whether I can pay the fare.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I glance down at
my wrinkled clothes and the tats that cover most of my arms. Granted, I don’t
exactly give off the best first impression right now, but damn, I hate it when
people are judgmental. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Shrill screams
from a group of fans surrounding the back gate catch my attention in time to
see Kyle pass through the crowd alone. I dig my wallet out from my back pocket
and pay the fare, along with a generous tip, before letting myself out of the
cab. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Fans swarm around
me, practically shoving pens and pieces of paper in front of my face begging
for autographs, while dozens of flashes go off simultaneously. Kyle does his
best to part the way for me as we push through to the gate. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Once inside,
locked away from the fans, Kyle turns to me and hands me a backstage pass.
“Where the hell were you? The guys are pissed.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I pull the lanyard
over my head, adjust my sunglasses on my nose, and shrug. “What’s new? They’re
always pissed at me for one reason or another lately. They’ll get over me
missing the stupid meeting. They never talk about anything other than
scheduling more time off. It’s not like my vote ever gets taken into
consideration anyhow.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Kyle opens the
door to the arena and motions me in. “I think they notice you being absent from
more things than you realize.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Doubtful.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I follow him
through the maze of roadies, instruments, and stage props until my brother and
the other guys come into view. The three of them stand there, talking quietly
amongst themselves, until Riff glances up and notices me walking in their
direction. He throws a swift elbow at Noel and nods toward me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A strange vibe
washes over me, and I can tell by the expressions on their faces that none of
them are too happy with me right now. <span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip turns to look
at me, contempt written all over his face. “Nice of you to grace us with your
presence, asshole. Where were you?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The sunglasses
still covering my face shield the dramatic eye roll I’m giving him. “I was with
Gabby.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He narrows his
eyes at me. “I thought you said you were done with that shit?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Not that it’s any
of your fucking business, but I’m not using again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I hope Trip
doesn’t see through the lie and figure out I’ve been dabbling a little on the
white horse. I don’t need the headache that comes from dealing with him.
Besides, I don’t have to report what I’m doing to him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A harsh laugh
rolls out of Trip’s mouth. “I suppose you just enjoy her fucking company. Come
on, man, this is me you’re talking to. Your identical twin. Girls like Gabby
Rodriguez are fast and easy; not exactly dating material. So don’t try and
bullshit this bullshitter—I know the kind of shit you do when you’re with her.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The condescending
tone in his voice makes my blood boil. I don’t see where he gets off. He’s not
our fucking father. I can do what I want, when I want. “Since when does what I
do and with who affect you?” I swing my gaze to Noel and Riff, who are both
watching our exchange intently. It’s time I let them all know how I feel.
“Since when does my business affect any of you? All of you have your own
fucking things going on. What does it matter if I’m out having a good time?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Riff narrows his
eyes. “It fucking matters when you miss important shit because you’re too high
to remember your goddamn priorities. That’s the sixth band meeting you’ve blown
off. Do you even know what the fuck is going on with the new album?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stare at him,
the expression on my face blank. “What the fuck are you talking about? There’s
absolutely nothing going on with the new album because I haven’t finished any
of the fucking songs for it yet.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Jesus, fuck, he’s
out of it now,” Riff says as he shakes his head. “Do you even know what day of
the week it is?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I hesitate and
swallow hard. I start to reach for my phone to check the date because,
honestly, I don’t have a fucking clue, but I stop short because doing that
would just prove Riff right. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Riff shakes his
head and turns to Noel with raised eyebrows. “I told you he didn’t have a
fucking clue. He’s bad for business.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I flinch. “When
have I ever been bad for business? I’m the glue that holds this piece of shit
band together.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Not anymore,”
Riff replies coolly. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shake my head,
not missing the disgust in Riff’s eyes. It’s a look I remember all too well.
It’s the same one he had a couple of years ago when Noel struggled with his
addiction. The same look he had when he wanted us to boot Noel from the band. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I narrow my eyes
at my childhood friend. “You got something to say to me, Riff, just go ahead
and fucking say it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Riff looks from
Noel to Trip and his Adam’s apple bobs as he swallows hard and then lifts his
chin. “You’re out, Tyke.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My eyes widen as
every muscle inside me tenses. “What?!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You. Are. Out.
You’ve become a liability. Noel knows it, and so does your brother. You need
help. We won’t stand by and watch you destroy yourself and drag this band down
with you.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Rage rolls through
every inch of me. “You’re kicking <i>me</i>
out? I fucking started this band. You can’t kick me out.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip lays his hand
on my shoulder. “Tyke—”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shrug away from
his touch. “Fuck you, Trip. Don’t fucking touch me!” I level my heated gaze on
the other two guys. “Fuck all of you!” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I take a couple
steps back while my mouth hangs agape. I can’t fucking believe this. They’re
giving me the boot, just like that? No chance to explain myself? Just out—like
I’m a piece of fucking trash they can’t wait to get rid of. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Fine.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Fucking Fine.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
They’ll see.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
They need me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
They’ll get over
it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I storm out of the
arena, needing time to clear my head and figure this shit out, but before I get
through the door, Kyle stops me. “Where you off to?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Hotel,” is all I
can manage to say. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The thick cords of
muscle work beneath Kyle’s skin as he pulls a set of keys out of his pocket.
“Come on, I’ll drive you over.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I follow our
bodyguard to the Escalade. Kyle uses the key fob to unlock the SUV, and we both
hop inside. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
As I pull the
heavy door closed behind me, I reconsider leaving. I should go back in there
and hammer things out with the guys now. After all, I don’t want tonight’s show
to be tense. But my head’s still a little foggy from the coke I snorted, and I
know I won’t be able to speak to them rationally about this until I’ve had time
to calm down. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I scrub my hand
over my face. Tension in the band always fucking sucks—it’s even worse to be
the cause of it. They blame me for it, I know, but they don’t see that all this
shit started with them not caring enough. Not being committed enough. Not
living for the band like they used to. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Wanna talk about
it?” Kyle asks, killing the silence that has allowed me to go deeper into my
own thoughts. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I sigh. “What’s
there to talk about? The guys just kicked me out. They’re pissed, I get it, but
it won’t last. We never stay mad at each other. We’re brothers.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Kyle adjusts in
his seat as he stares out at the road ahead. “That would be great. Things were
going so good for a while, and I hate that there’s this underlying tension
between you guys. It makes things uncomfortable for us all when you guys aren’t
getting along.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Come on, Kyle.
Things haven’t been that bad. We’ve been through far worse.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He sighs. “If you
say so. I would just hate to see this great thing you all have going fall
apart.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“We’re not going
to fall apart,” I say with a slight huff. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
We’re quiet for
the rest of the ride. I don’t really feel like rehashing band issues with Kyle
when I’m not even sure what in the hell is going on myself. After I spend a few
hours sleeping and getting my head clear in my hotel room, I take a long hard
look at myself in the bathroom mirror. My sandy-blond hair is a bit shaggy, a
far cry from the short buzz cut I used to sport. Lately, I haven’t really felt
the need to be so clean-cut. The green of my eyes looks a little dingy, a little
lifeless, but that’s not completely my fault. Anyone in my shoes who’s losing
everything they’ve ever worked for would look the same way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I rake my hair
back with both hands and sigh. We just have to get back on track. I’ll go to
the guys and promise to stay sober, as long as they agree to start taking this
band more serious. What we need is a heart-to-heart, as brothers. We need to
squash this beef between us so that we can get back to doing what we do
best—making great music. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I grab my
backstage pass and slide it around my neck and slip out the door. I call a cab
to take me back to the arena. It’s time to get this shit back on track. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
With a clear head,
I set out to have a discussion with the guys about us all changing our ways,
mending what the last few years have broken.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The cabbie drops
me off near the back gate of the arena and with the help of my pass, I have no
problem slipping into the backstage area on my own. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I pull my phone
out of my pocket and check the time. It’s nearly nine, the time we are
scheduled to take the stage after Gabby’s band, Sex Arsenal, opens for us. A
few of the roadies nod at me as I pass by them on the way to the stage. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
One roadie I’ve
been partying with quite a bit lately, Lou, stops in front of me the moment he
recognizes me. “Tyke? What are you doing here, man?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My brow furrows
instantly. “Why wouldn’t I be here?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lou’s mouth opens
like he wants to say something, but he quickly closes it and shakes his head.
“You’re right. Forget I said anything.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I clap him on the back
as I pass by. “All right. Catch you later.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shove my hands
deep into my pockets as I keep pushing forward, thinking about how odd Lou’s
reaction to seeing me was. I mean, why wouldn’t I be here? We have a fucking
show to do. He’s obviously been smokin’ something.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The rumble of
Gabby’s voice blasts through the arena. “You guys have been an awesome fucking
crowd! Thanks for coming out early to hear our set. I need beer money, so make
sure you pick up our newest record and buy a goddamn T-shirt out front.”
There’s a roar of support from the fans. “Give it up for Black Falcon! They’re
about to come out and rock your faces off. You assholes will love that shit! We
are Sex Arsenal! Goodnight!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After a couple
thumps on the bass drum, the only noise left is the hum of the buzzing crowd.
It won’t be long until we take the stage, so this little talk with the boys
will have to wait until our set is over. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I begin tapping
out the beat to “Ball Busting Bitch” with my thumbs which are still wedged in
my pockets. Even though that’s one song I didn’t write, I still love it. It’s
the song that put us over the top, and I’ll be forever grateful to it for our
success. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod my head to
the melody repeating in my brain, but the moment I round the corner and my gaze
falls on the guys with Sergio Alvarez from Embrace the Darkness, the song drops
out of my mind. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
What the
ever-lovin’ fuck? We hate those douchebags. Since when did we decide to get
fucking chummy with their bass player? I don’t know the guy personally, but if
he’s in Embrace the Darkness, then he’s got to be just as big of an asshole as
Donovan and Striker.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lift my chin and
head straight for them, determined to get to the bottom of this. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Noel elbows Riff,
who is busy explaining chords of some sort to Sergio while Trip looks on with a
frown on his face. After Noel spots me, he nods to Trip who finally notices me,
too. I hate this tension between us. I’ll be glad when we squash all this later
tonight and shit <i>finally</i> gets back to
normal. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“What’s up, guys?”
I meet each one of their stares a little longer than necessary, but I’m trying
to get a read on the situation. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Sergio.” Even I
can hear the tension in my voice as I greet him with uncertainty, trying to
figure out why he’s here, since his band isn’t on this tour with us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Sergio’s mouth
twists as his eyebrows shoot up like he’s surprised to see me. He looks to
Riff, who only shrugs at him, before he says, “I’ll give you guys a minute.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Sergio rotates the
strap on his shoulder, sliding his bass onto his back before walking away. I
turn back to the guys and Noel runs his hand through his hair while Riff
pinches the bridge of his nose, drawing my attention to his crazy Mohawk. I
know these moves; both of them revert to their nervous tics when they are
frustrated and don’t know how to handle it. I swing my gaze over to my brother,
who grabs the bill of his baseball cap and adjusts it so it’s covering most of
his jet-black hair. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I fold my arms
over my chest. “All right, fucking out with it. What aren’t you telling me?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip puffs his
cheeks and blows a rush of air out through pursed lips. “We just didn’t expect
you to show up, that’s all.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I scrunch my brow.
“Where else would I be? We have a show—of course I’m going to be here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My twin licks his
lips carefully and then swallows. “The thing is, Tyke, we thought we were
pretty clear earlier—”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t even give
him a chance to finish. “You mean about throwing me out of the band?” I wave
him off dismissively. “You guys were pissed, and I get why you said it, but we
can sort all that out after the show. I’ve already forgiven you guys.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
They exchange
expressions bordering on surprise and sadness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Look, Tyke, we—” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My brother throws
a hand out to stop Riff from saying anything else. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Let me,” Trip
says, turning to me. “Tyke, we love you, man, but you need help. I know you
believe you have a handle on all this partying you’re doing, that you’re in
complete control, but the truth is you don’t, and you aren’t. I’m not sure
what’s going on with you because you won’t talk to me—or any of us—but whatever
it is, you need to figure it out.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t know
whether to be excited that we’ve finally come to a point where a discussion
about this band and my issues with what’s happened to it is finally going to
happen, or to get pissed that my own brother can’t tell that I don’t have
addiction issues. I’m in complete fucking control. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I’m so glad that
you’ve finally seen there’s a huge problem with the dynamics of the band and
are ready to fix them. After we play tonight, I’d love to sit down and talk
about adding more dates to the tour.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“No, Tyke.” Trip
shakes his head. “We’ve tried talking with you before, and no matter what we
say to you, I know you aren’t going to stop partying.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I roll my eyes. “I
can stop any time I want. I just choose not to. I don’t see what that has to do
with the band.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“We can’t have you
with us while you’re using,” Noel chimes in. “I know more than anyone how easy
it is to get out of control. If it weren’t for you guys being by my side while
I went to rehab—”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Jesus Christ, are
you fucking serious? <i>Rehab</i>? I don’t
need fucking rehab.” Just where in the fuck do they get off? I’ve never been as
bad as Noel was. Okay, so maybe I missed a few shows where he never did when he
was using, but it was only a few times. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I scrub my hands
down my face. This is so fucking stupid, but I know they won’t let me get out
of rehab if they’ve made up their minds that I need treatment, so I might as
well give in and get this over with. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Fine. You want me
to go to rehab? I’ll go as soon as we wrap up the tour.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Trip takes a step
toward me and starts to put his hand on my shoulder but hesitates, then shoves
it back into his pocket. “You can’t wait until after the tour, Tyke.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Of course I can.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He shakes his
head. “No, you can’t. You can’t resist Gabby, and she’s on the rest of the tour
with us. We think it’s best if you went now.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Now?” I question.
“But, who will—” I stop myself because I don’t even need to ask the question.
I’ve already figured out the answer. “You assholes already replaced me? Before
I get a fucking say? <i>Sergio Alvarez</i>?
You’ve got to kidding me. He couldn’t hold a fucking candle to me on his best
day.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Come on, man.
Don’t be a dick,” Riff says. “Sergio’s a good dude.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lick the corner
of my mouth. “A good dude, huh?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Just because
someone’s a nice person, it doesn’t mean they’ll work in the band. These
assholes will find out soon enough that I’m not replaceable. Hell, I’m going to
teach them a lesson. Leave them high and dry, not giving them the satisfaction
of kicking me out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You know what?
You don’t have to worry about me anymore because I fucking quit. Have fun
keeping this piece of shit band together without me because none of you will
put in the work like I do.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I turn and head
away from them, listening for them to call my name and beg me to stay and work
things out, but it never comes. I sigh and shake my head. Before long, they’ll
be begging for me to come back. It’s only a matter of time. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
****</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The rest of the
night is a hazy blur…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Going to a bar
downtown with Lou…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Music…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Women…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Lots of women…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
An assortment of
pills…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A bottle of Jim
Beam…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Getting behind the
wheel of the Escalade I borrowed from Kyle. Driving down the road, drinking
straight from the bottle, wondering how my life got so fucked up. Feeling lost.
Unwanted, and unloved. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Seeing a concrete
wall blocking a housing development and thinking it would be better if I
weren’t around anymore. After all, who would fucking miss me?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The last thing I
remember is mashing the gas pedal to the floor. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Unlatching my
seatbelt...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Then...nothing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8knRtIhpTzOyVTQkAFWh9A-Ceu29YrraA9VniYcoaaI_VwdEuDD_vzFqKEk2l1DmRNV5EJv7xieB59BF_pjr7qxGa8p-NpOTjJ_OKI-M4NdIhE-XPkIZlBBNKjxG-m0PWi4sUIS1dti8/s1600/chapt+2+header.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8knRtIhpTzOyVTQkAFWh9A-Ceu29YrraA9VniYcoaaI_VwdEuDD_vzFqKEk2l1DmRNV5EJv7xieB59BF_pjr7qxGa8p-NpOTjJ_OKI-M4NdIhE-XPkIZlBBNKjxG-m0PWi4sUIS1dti8/s1600/chapt+2+header.JPG" height="313" width="320" /></a></div>
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1028"
type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:6in;height:324pt'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\MCELFR~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_image007.emz"
o:title=""/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"> “Mad
World” –Gary Jules<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtw38dE-f1WJOPRo56FqSFMSqSagQl7KT9zQ6qi4-JKTvJq6VHdCrDcMQ7WHJNTKKgwqKmt9taDvHbpGIujV5Z2Ey2288AZwSqhCo-5-Y0OaLRwonBuPTWLUq_iRR7fe02UikxZEVRMTo/s1600/Frannie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtw38dE-f1WJOPRo56FqSFMSqSagQl7KT9zQ6qi4-JKTvJq6VHdCrDcMQ7WHJNTKKgwqKmt9taDvHbpGIujV5Z2Ey2288AZwSqhCo-5-Y0OaLRwonBuPTWLUq_iRR7fe02UikxZEVRMTo/s1600/Frannie.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
People say there
can be no light without darkness. It’s a nice quote and all, but I’m convinced
it’s just a load of shit people love to hang onto so they feel better. There’s
been more darkness in my life than I care to admit, but light? There’s been no
trace of that in a long time. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I watch silently
as fat raindrops pound against the window of the train. This—starting over—is a
good thing, and has been my main goal since I started my journey to straighten
myself up. I’ve already completed the first two phases of my plan: admitting I
had a problem, and taking a stand to overcome it while getting my degree in
psychology. Now I’m moving on to the third stage: helping others conquer their
personal struggles, too.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
It’s my new
mission. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Excuse me?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My eyes drift away
from the window to the man standing in the aisle next to me, wearing what I
assume to be a very expensive tailored suit. He’s clean-shaven; his dark hair
is neatly styled. Stunning blue eyes and a perfectly white smile complete this
alluring package before me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
If I were still
the old me, I would give him my best flirty smile and, despite the gold band on
his left hand, I would’ve invited him to sit down. But I’m trying hard to
forget that woman. Absurdly handsome men who never really gave a damn about me
are my biggest weakness—a weakness I’m desperate to break away from. Messing
around with unavailable men with no hint of remorse was how I knew I had
problems: hurting people in order to get my fix is something I did for years.
The thought alone is shaming. It got to the point where sex was no longer just
a physical escape, but an addiction, too. Like I would die if I didn’t have it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I blink a couple
of times, bringing myself out of my thoughts while I do my best to repress my
inner flirt. I notice the man’s still standing there wearing a mischievous
grin. “Yes?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The stranger’s
grin widens. “Is this seat taken?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lick my lips and
swallow hard as the temptation to invite him to snuggle now and fuck later in
the bathroom crosses my mind. But as I’ve learned through my own psychological
studies on resisting temptation, no matter how hard it may seem at the time,
it’s far better than dealing with the fallout of giving in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I set my purse in
the seat. “It is.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The man frowns and
takes one last look at my long legs and voluptuous chest before he nods and
continues down the aisle to find a seat. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
As soon as he’s
out of sight, I breathe a sigh of relief and allow my head to fall back against
the seat. Annie would’ve been proud, although she wouldn’t have approved of how
I was living my life to begin with. If she would’ve been there, things might
not have gotten so out of control in the first place. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The train begins
pulling away from the station, and I pull out my phone, flipping through my
pictures until I find one of her. My fingers press against the screen as I
trace the features of her beautiful face. As identical twins, people always
said we looked alike, but other than that, there weren’t many similarities
between us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Annie was so
vibrant; her blue eyes were always so alive with wonder and hope, while mine
were dull, filled with dread and despair. She was so optimistic about life,
while I was the queen of pessimism. Physically, our bodies were identical—long
legs with hour-glass figures like our mother, blue eyes like our father—but our
spirits were polar opposites, so I never got why people lumped us together as
the same person. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I miss you,” I
whisper only loud enough for me to hear, before I kiss my two fingers and press
it to her smile. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I quickly lock the
screen and stuff my phone back into my purse, picking up the pamphlet for the
posh facility I’ll be working at. Serenity Hills: Recovery for the Mind, Body,
and Soul. When I interviewed last month, the director of the place, Dr. Wayne
Shepherd, had gotten me excited to be involved with their program and their
mission of helping individuals become the absolute best person they can be. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After nearly eight
hours, the train slows as it approaches <st1:place w:st="on">Cincinnati</st1:place>,
the nearest town to Serenity Hills, I begin gathering my belongings and
stuffing the books and pamphlets I’d been reading into my handbag. The man who
approached me earlier on the train stands and turns toward me, offering a final
wink in my direction before heading out of the car. He’s leaving the door open
if I wanted to follow him, I guess.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I take a deep
breath and stand, straightening my shoulders and tilting my chin up as I walk
in the opposite direction of the handsome man. Every day that I fight against
giving into my addiction, it becomes a little easier to walk away from
temptation. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Once off the
train, I search around in the crowd for my ride. It doesn’t take me long to
spot the doctor who interviewed me. He’s just as I remembered him; tall,
broad-shouldered, with neatly trimmed graying-hair and an athletic
build—probably from running. Dr. Shepherd has that whole “distinguished” thing
happening, and it totally works for him.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Dr. Shepherd
smiles as his gaze locks on mine. He extends his hand in greeting as I approach
him, and I set my bag down to shake his hand. “It’s good to see you again, Dr.
Shepherd.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>, please, Ms. Mead.” His smile is
sincere.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“In that case, you
can call me Frannie.” I want to roll my eyes at myself for sounding so much
like a lame-o. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> picks up my bag and ushers me toward
the parking lot. “Did you have a good trip? I must say picking someone up from
the train station is a first for me. Most people travel by plane or car these
days.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shrug, not
wanting to reveal my issue with flying just yet, so I give the best excuse I
can come up with. “I prefer it. It’s relaxing and flying isn’t that much
shorter in the long run.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> nods as he leads me to a black
Mercedes. “I can appreciate a woman who knows what she likes and doesn’t.
Flying <i>is</i> overrated, I suppose, with
its cramped seats and germ-filled cabins.” The amused tone in his voice doesn’t
go unnoticed, and I smile, glad that he’s accepted my rationale so easily.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Once <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> places my bag in the
trunk, he escorts me to the passenger side where he proceeds to open my door
and help me inside. As I watch him walk around the car, I notice how attractive
he is, even though I know he’s quite a bit older than my twenty-eight years. I
can already tell working alongside him and keeping things completely platonic
might prove difficult if he decides to make a move on me, but I’m determined
not to sleep with anyone I work with. I’m confident I can keep things strictly
business. I have to. My professionalism means the world to me, and I can’t
allow my demons to influence me and cause problems with this new career that I
so desperately want. It will be a challenge, but at least <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> is a far cry from my normal
type—irresistible tattooed, bad-boy man-candy. I just need to keep my distance
from him, and any other man who may pose a threat to my newfound vow of
celibacy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
It’s about an hour
drive through the hills of <st1:place w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:place>
before we come to the entrance of Serenity Hills, tucked among a thick line of
trees that hide the rest of the property from sight. We turn down the paved
drive and wind our way up the gentle slope and through the woods. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The large white
Victorian-style home with a wraparound porch that’s featured on the cover of
the brochure comes into view. <st1:city w:st="on">Wayne</st1:city> told me how
beautiful this place was when he interviewed me in my hometown of <st1:place w:st="on">Chicago</st1:place>, but I never
expected this. It’s peaceful and serene—the perfect place for people to relax
and recover from whatever demons they’re struggling with away from the harsh
realities of the real world. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It’s
breathtaking, isn’t it?” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
takes the words right out of my mouth. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It is,” I agree.
“I can’t believe I’ll be staying here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Actually…” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> pulls around the
circular driveway and then continues to drive around to the back of the house,
where a series of tiny white cottages sit spread out about fifty yards from the
main house. “You and the rest of the staff get your own cottages. They’re fully
equipped—sort of like an efficiency apartment. They’re quite nice.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I like the idea of
having my own space to be alone with my thoughts and just read. I do have one
lingering question, though. “What about our clients? Where will they be
staying?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He parks the car
and cuts the ignition. “The clients stay in the main house, where myself and
our head nurse, Timothy, will be as well. We like to keep our eyes on them, and
Timothy is quite strong, which comes in handy if a client gets out of hand.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It’s good that
you have him.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It is, but I want
to assure you we take staff and client safety very seriously here at Serenity,
and have never had an issue with any of our clients behaving in a violent
manner. Most are affluent members of society—some are even celebrities.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I raise my
eyebrows. Celebrities? I thought the secluded surroundings were just to provide
a tranquil atmosphere, but now it makes sense. The lush greenery also helps
keep the prying eyes of the paparazzi out. I wasn’t even allowed to know the
location of the treatment center until I formally accepted the position. The
physical address was never listed on any of the informational paperwork I
received. “Do many celebrities come here?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> pauses for a moment and then nods his
head. “From time to time.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Do they receive
any special privileges?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“No. They are
treated just like everyone else. We hold group sessions as well as some private
ones to maintain a level of privacy for all our clients. Some of the issues
they may need our help working through are very private, so we don’t begrudge
them, or anyone else, of that confidentiality. We don’t want to hinder their
recovery process.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod. “That’s
understandable.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> smiles, his perfectly white teeth on
full display. “I think you’ll fit in nicely here, Ms. Mead.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Frannie, please,
I insist, and thank you for that vote of confidence. I’m really excited to be a
part of the team here. I’m ready to help make an impact on people’s lives.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I’m glad to hear
that, Frannie.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> helps me from the
car and collects my bag from the trunk, I follow him down the cobblestone path
toward one of the cottages. Fresh spring flowers line the walkway, and I inhale
deeply taking in their floral scent along with the crisp air. I’ve never been
one to covet country living, but I can see how living among beauty like this would
be appealing to some. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The closer we get to the cottage, I notice how
close it is to a beautiful, lush garden. A huge fountain sits in the middle,
water spilling from a female statue’s bucket. Four benches surround it, each
spaced equally apart. It’s breathtaking—like something that belongs in some
grand park somewhere for the masses to enjoy, instead of just a few select
individuals. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> steps up onto the small concrete stoop
of the cottage and watches as I study the garden intently. “I thought you’d
enjoy that. I chose this cottage for you since it was right next door to it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It’s wonderful,”
I gush. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> smiles, clearly pleased that I’m so
ecstatic about his choice. “If you like that, wait until you have a look
inside.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Curious as to what
could be any better than this, I follow him inside, and my breath immediately
catches. This small little house must have been a decorator’s wet dream to
design. Everything in the places exudes softness and serenity, down to its
overstuffed cream colored couch and bedding, both with soft teal accents. It’s
very fitting considering the name of this facility. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I resist the urge
to jump on the bed and test its softness in front of <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>, choosing instead to walk around the
room. A small kitchen area sits along the back wall, and a couch with an
entertainment area separates the living room from the bedroom. I push open one
of the doors next to the bed to reveal a decent size walk-in closet, and the
second door hides the full bathroom complete with claw-foot tub. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I think I’ve died
and gone to my own personal heaven. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> clears his throat behind me, and I turn
to find him holding out a key. “Dinner is served promptly at seven in the main
house, and I would be delighted to show you around the grounds afterwards—while
we still have plenty of light.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I pinch the small
piece of metal between my fingers, delighted. “That would be great. Thank you.”
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A huge smile
overtakes <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>’s
face, even reaching his dark brown eyes. “I’ll leave you to unpack. See you at
seven.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The moment the
door shuts behind him, I do the thing I’ve been itching to do since I walked
in—I run and jump on the bed, immediately sinking into the thick down
comforter. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shove my loose
strands of brown hair out of my face and sigh. “What a start to a new life.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Two years ago, I
would never have seen myself here, in this moment. Especially with both a
degree <i>and</i> a job that I’m excited
about. Annie would be proud; I know it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After unpacking
all my things, I glance up at the clock that’s hanging on the wall. It’s only a
little after six, so I still have some time to poke around the place before
dinner. I move to grab my purse but decide to tuck it into the closet for safe
keeping instead. Since there’s not a pocket to be found anywhere on the
sundress I’m wearing, I slip the key into my bra for safekeeping. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I step out on the
small stoop and take care to lock my door carefully behind me before continuing
up the stone path toward the main house. The silence of the natural
surroundings is only disturbed when birds chirp in a gleeful chorus. I can’t
remember the last time I was, or even if I ever have been, in a place so away
from civilization that there’s absolutely no intrusion on the sounds of nature,
but it’s delightful. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
When I finally
make it to the house, I step up onto the back porch. Its grand two-story
pillars really give a regal appeal to the place. As I turn to walk to the front
of the house, a door behind me opens. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A petite blonde,
wearing a white skirt and pale yellow polo shirt, comes bouncing out the door
with earbuds in her ears, humming along to a song on the radio.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The moment she
spots me, she yanks the cord on her earbuds, popping them out, and grins. “You
must be Dr. Mead. I’m Kimmy, the housekeeper. It’s so nice to finally have
another woman on the staff around here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I extend a hand
out to her. “Please, call me Frannie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Oh my gracious,
that’s an adorable name,” she says, and her heavy country accent makes me
smile. “Well, Frannie, I hope you like your cottage. Dr. Shepherd allowed me to
decorate it for you.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Wow, I’m impressed. I love the design of the
place. Did you put the entire color scheme together?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Kimmy nods
enthusiastically. “I did. It’s my dream to be an interior decorator one day.
I’ve been taking some online classes because there are no schools close by that
specialize in that. I can’t afford to make the drive every day to one of the
bigger cities, and I for damn sure can’t afford to live there, so online will
have to do until I can save enough money to move.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I study the young
woman. She can’t be more than twenty, and yet, she clearly knows what she wants
to do with her life and is already on a serious path to getting it. I’m envious
of her, wishing I’d had her drive at that age.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That sounds like
a terrific plan.” I strain my neck to peek around the side of the house. “Which
is the best way to get into the house? The back?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Kimmy stuffs her
phone and earbuds into the pocket of her skirt. “Come on, I’ll show you around.
I bet you’re pretty anxious to meet everyone and get settled.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That would be
lovely.” I follow her back through the door she just came out of, and we enter
into a large library. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The grand ambiance
that encircles the outside of the place doesn’t shy away from the inside one
bit. Large wooden bookcases stretch along the back wall from floor to ceiling;
every spare inch of the shelves filled with books. I take a deep breath and
give myself another pep talk about maintaining my professionalism and not going
absolutely gah-gah in front of this young woman. She might not understand my
obsession with the written word. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Kimmy catches me
staring and laughs. “It’s a lot of books, right? I’d never seen so many in all
my life—not even in the libraries I’ve been in. Our towns around here can’t
afford anything so extreme. We’re lucky to have three bookcases for the whole
place—for every kind of book.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s a shame,”
I tsk. “There’s nothing like getting lost in a fantastic story. No one on earth
should be deprived of that.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I agree.” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>’s smooth voice coats
the room, jerking my attention to him. “Sorry, ladies, I didn’t mean to
intrude, but I was passing by and overheard your last statement, and I couldn’t
help but get excited right along with you. It’s a shame that small towns like
this get deprived of a decent library.” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
turns to direct his attention to Kimmy. “Since I’ve caught you, do you mind
preparing a room in the men’s wing? I’ve just received an urgent request for
program enrollment, and our new client will be arriving tomorrow.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She folds her
hands in front of her and nods, almost giving off the impression of a slight
curtsy, saying, “Right away, Dr. Shepherd,” before she hustles out of the room.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I stare after her,
and <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
catches my attention when he speaks. “Bright girl.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“She is,” I
quickly agree. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You don’t find
many employees like her nowadays; smart, kind, and obedient. She follows every
rule I set here to a ‘T.’”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My mind drifts
back to all the previous jobs I’ve held and how many times I’d screwed
off—cutting corners and sneaking time off when I could. I was definitely not
the model employee that Kimmy appears to be. <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>’s probably right. Finding someone like
her is very much like finding a diamond in the rough. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I trust you found
your living quarters agreeable?” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
walks over to the bookcase and rearranges a couple of books on the shelf, like
he couldn’t stand them being out of order. “If you have any additional
requirements, please let Kimmy know. She can arrange to get anything you may
need.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Really, <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>, everything is
perfect,” I reassure him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He turns to me and
extends his elbow to me, reminding me of an old movie, where the classic hero,
dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, escorts the heroine around. I’ve always
been infatuated with the idea of finding a classy man like that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I hook my arm in
his and allow him to lead me through the door of the library into the main hall
of the house. Deep mahogany wood covers the floor, while the crisp white walls
lighten the entire space. Black and white portraits of different people are
spaced evenly apart and one photo of a young woman with long dark hair catches
my attention. Although I can’t see her face, the sag in her shoulders and the
slight tilt of her head as she stares at a vacant field tells me she’s
unbelievably sad.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s one of my
favorites. There’s just something about her body language that draws me in and
makes me wonder what she’s thinking.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I nod in
agreement. “Yes.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I believe hanging
photos that represent the possible feelings of our clients shows them that they
aren’t alone—that everyone feels sad from time to time. You’ll find that we
have them all over the main house.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
From there, <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> continues the tour
through the front parlor and then on to the kitchen, where a heavy-set woman
with a deep tan and dark hair pulled up under a hairnet is buzzing around. Her
tiny button nose compliments her dark brown eyes which are currently fixed on
the cake she’s decorating. With a few swift motions of her hand, she creates a
tiny red rose and then attaches it to the cake. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s amazing.
I’ve always wanted to do that,” I say. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The woman glances
up and smiles. “Thank you. My mother taught me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Dr. Mead, this is
Sue, our head chef here at Serenity, and the best baker I’ve ever had the
pleasure of meeting,” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
introduces us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I release my arm from
Wayne’s and begin to extend it toward her, but remember that she’s cooking and
think better of it. “It’s nice to meet you, Sue.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“You, too, Dr.
Mead.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“What’s on the
menu tonight, Sue?” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
asks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Steak with mashed
potatoes and green beans, and of course, chocolate cake for dessert,” Sue
answers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Sounds fantastic.
I’m looking forward to it.” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
turns to me and extends his elbow again. “Shall we?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> sweeps his arm toward the door on the
other side of the kitchen. Before I follow his direction.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Aloha, Dr. Mead,”
Sue replies, alerting me to the fact that she’s of Hawaiian descent. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
We move into an
elegant dining room with a table that appears big enough to seat twenty. A
grand fireplace sits off to the left side of the table, and it’s tall enough
for me to walk into, if I wanted. The place settings have been arranged like
something from a fine restaurant. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“This is
impressive,” I tell <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>.
“I would never have pictured all this for…” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I don’t finish my
thought because I don’t want say the wrong thing and offend <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“A rehab
facility?” He lifts an eyebrow and grins. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I shrug. “Yes. I
mean, this setup could rival some of the best restaurants in the world.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Thank you. We
pride ourselves on making sure our clients are well taken care of. When they
come here to detox, it’s not the most pleasant thing to go through, but we try
to comfort them by making things nice, allowing them only positive things to
focus on while they are here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> pulls out a chair to the right of the
head of the table. “Please, sit. The clients will all be here shortly, and we
can get started with introductions.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
A few moments
later, the sound of laughter comes rolling in from outside the room. It’s not
exactly the mood I expected from a group of people struggling from an array of
addiction issues. The first person through the door is a tall, statuesque
blonde, with a model face and legs to die for. Everything about her, from her
boobs to her eyebrows, couldn’t be more perfect if they were drawn on. Second
to arrive is a very handsome man with a broad frame and blond spiky hair. The
two of them are smiling, and it makes me think they are the ones I heard
laughing just moments ago. Behind them follows a short, balding man with a beer
belly who doesn’t appear quite as jovial as the two who preceded him. A few
more women and men follow in after that, and each and every one of their
curious eyes land on me; wondering who I am and what I’m doing here, I’m sure. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> stands as the new group joins us at the
table, each taking a seat. “By the sounds of it, it appears you all enjoyed
your day out.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Oh, we did,” the
blonde says, and then directs her attention to the spiky haired man who came in
with her. “Randall ensured we all had a great time.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Randall stiffens
his back and directs his gaze at <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>.
“Everyone had fun at the fair and was on their best behavior. It was a nice
change of pace to get out of here for a while.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Good, good,” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> praises before
turning to me. “This is Randall, our activities director.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I return the smile
that Randall shoots me with one of my own, as I’m ecstatic to meet another one
of my new co-workers. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> clears his throat and addresses
everyone who is now seated at the table. “I’m sure you’re all curious as to the
new face in the room. This is Dr. Francine Mead. She’s the new addiction
therapist here at Serenity and will be meeting with some of you individually
and hopefully develop a relationship whereby she can assist you with your
recovery process. I’ll ask that each one of you show her the same respect that
you show me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Everyone around
the table listens to <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
intently and they nod in all the appropriate places. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The blonde is the
first to speak. I can already tell she is the type of woman who is used to
having all the attention in the room. “It’s nice to meet you, Dr. Mead. I’m
Josie Sullivan. You might’ve heard of me? I had a hit single called ‘Working on
a Star’ a couple of years ago.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
My lips pull into
a tight line as I root through the limited pop music catalog I have listed in
my head. I haven’t had time for much more than studying and spending my time
with men. Keeping up on the latest top forty hits hasn’t been exactly high on
my priority list. I primarily only listen to alternative music. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I grimace. “I’m
not much of a music lover, but I’m sure it’s a lovely song.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Her expression
borders on shock and confusion and then she turns to Randall. “Where did Dr.
Shepherd find this one? Under a rock?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Josie,” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> warns. “Please
refrain from insulting the staff. You, better than anyone else, know the rules
at Serenity.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Josie nods
quickly, and I get the feeling this isn’t her first visit to Serenity. “I’m
sorry, Dr. Shepherd. It won’t happen again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Good.” <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> unfolds the pressed
cloth napkin at his place setting and uses it to cover his lap just as Sue
comes into the dining room, pushing a small metal cart with a huge bowl on it.
“What kind of soup do we have today?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“It’s a chilled
strawberry. I think you’ll like it,” Sue replies as she begins to ladle a
portion into each person’s bowl.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The moment the
spoon touches my lips and I sip its contents, I fight back the urge to moan.
“This is spectacular, Sue.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
She smiles at me.
“Thank you, Dr. Mead.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The rest of the
dinner goes on with small talk taking place between the clients while <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> interjects every now
and then. I learn that most of them have been here for quite some time and were
very comfortable stating what they are addicted to, talking very candidly about
it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
After it’s all
over, <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
escorts me back to my cottage, and I’m still reeling at how open the clients
are. “They all seemed to have made wonderful progress. I’m simply amazed at how
open they are about their addictions. That’s always the first step, admitting
they have a problem, but then to be able to talk about it so freely and share
their struggles is above and beyond.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place> nods. “They don’t come here that way,
let me assure you. Most come here headstrong and reluctant, adamant they don’t
have a problem, and that everyone else is just too uptight or meddling in their
business, so it takes time for them to come around. We hold a lot of group
sessions, encouraging that openness. Eventually, they become more comfortable
sharing with us and others around them. Unfortunately, most of their support
systems at home hinder more than help their recovery, and more often than not,
we end up seeing them back here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“That’s a shame—to
see all that progress wasted.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He sighs. “It is.
I always have to remind myself that we can only do so much here. Ultimately,
it’s up to them to remain clean and sober with a positive outlook, and remain
open about their feelings and their struggles to those around them.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
We arrive at my
stoop and I pull the key from my bra. <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>
raises his eyebrows and I merely shrug. “No pockets.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
He laughs. “I
see.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Once I unlock the
door, I turn to him and say, “Thank you for walking me. What time do you want
me to start work tomorrow?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“Eight sharp. We
have a new client coming in the morning, and I would like to go over his case
file with you before he arrives. Everything we have on the clients is
electronic. I’ll email your password to access the system so you can look over
it at your leisure. I would like for you to take the lead with this one, but
I’ll be here to help you in any way I can.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I lift my chin,
proud that he trusts that I’m ready to jump right into the fire and counsel the
new client. “Sounds great. I’ll wait for your email.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
“I’ll send it over
as soon as I get back to my office. Goodnight, Frannie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
The rest of the
evening, I wait on <st1:place w:st="on">Wayne</st1:place>’s
email. When I hear the familiar ding of a new message while brushing my teeth,
I finish up and rush to the open laptop on my bed to check it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
It contains all
the proper passwords and links to access all the clients’ files, as well as the
information on the client we are expecting tomorrow. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
Tyke Douglas, the
bass player for the rock band, Black Falcon, will be arriving via private
transportation tomorrow morning. Tyke has been enrolled by his twin brother,
Trip, with Tyke’s permission. The client has had two DUIs in the past year, and
reportedly has issues with prescription and recreational drugs as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I tap my bottom
lip, curious about the guy, wanting to know more than the small report on the
client tells me. I quickly minimize the screen and pull up Google, typing Mr.
Douglas’ name into the search engine along with his band’s name. Within
seconds, mug shots pop up on my screen, along with the tabloid reports on the
downward spiral of Black Falcon. I flip through more photos and come across one
where his eyes are closed as he strums a guitar while wearing a sleeveless
shirt, displaying his vast array of tattoos perfectly. While his body appears
to be absolutely banging, I’m stuck on the sadness on his face—like he’s
completely lost in the song he’s playing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
I click on the
biography link listed for Mr. Douglas, but it shows a combined history for both
him and his twin brother.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>TRIP <st1:place w:st="on">DOUGLAS</st1:place> BIO<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
■Character Name: <b>Trip
Douglas</b><br />
■Birth Date: October 14th<br />
■Place of Birth: <span lang="EN">Ashland, Kentucky</span><br />
■Current Residence: Paintsville, Kentucky<br />
■Height: 6’1”<br />
■Weight: 195<br />
■Hair Color: Black<br />
■Hair Length: Short<br />
■Eye Color: Green<br />
■Tattoos: Sleeves on both arms, back, and chest<br />
■Educational History: High School graduate<br />
■Work History: Drummer of Black Falcon<br />
■Quirks: Wears bandanna on his head, an identical twin<br />
■Key Adult Experiences: Achieving musical fame</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Trip <st1:place w:st="on">Douglas</st1:place></b><span lang="EN">
(born October 14th), is the drummer for the American heavy metal band Black
Falcon. Best known for being the crazier of the two Douglas Twins, Trip’s
triple-thumping foot pedal sound has become one of the band’s trademarks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN">Alongside his twin brother, Tyke,
Trip began playing instruments under the guidance of his musician father, but
his interest in playing in a band grew once he discovered his love for hard
rock music. He joined a band called <i>Dingy</i>
while in high school with his brother Tyke and his best friend, Zachary ‘Riff’
Oliver. Later, the band was renamed to Black Falcon after the addition of the
band’s new front man, Noel Falcon. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN">Trip also enjoys extreme spots,
such as dirt bike riding, rock climbing, and sky diving—making him the most
adventurous member of the band. His dream is to one day climb <st1:place w:st="on">Mount
Everest</st1:place>. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b><span lang="EN">TYKE <st1:place w:st="on">DOUGLAS</st1:place> BIO:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
■Character Name: <b>Tyke
Douglas</b><br />
■Birth Date: October 14th<br />
■Place of Birth: <span lang="EN">Ashland, Kentucky</span><br />
■Current Residence: Paintsville, Kentucky<br />
■Height: 6’1”<br />
■Weight: 190<br />
■Hair Color: Blond<br />
■Hair Length: Shaggy<br />
■Eye Color: Green<br />
■Tattoos: Sleeves on both arms, back, and chest<br />
■Educational History: High School graduate<br />
■Work History: Bassist of Black Falcon<br />
■Quirks: Frequently wears sunglasses, loves organization, an identical twin<br />
■Key Adult Experiences: Achieving musical fame</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Tyke <st1:place w:st="on">Douglas</st1:place></b><span lang="EN">
(born October 14th), is the bassist for the American heavy metal band Black
Falcon. Best known for being a key songwriter for the band, Tyke’s obsession
with detail always seems to push the songs to a level of perfection rarely
achieved by other bands. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN">Tyke also enjoys the arts,
attending gallery openings and poetry events whenever his schedule
allows—making him the most cultured member of the band. His dream to one day
branch out and share his other artistic abilities with the world is something
he hopes to accomplish in the very near future.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b><span lang="EN">Combined Bios:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span lang="EN">Trip</span></b><span lang="EN"> and <b>Tyke</b> began playing instruments under
the guidance of their musician father, but their interest in playing in a band
grew once they discovered a mutual love for hard rock music. They joined a band
called <i>Dingy</i> while in high school,
accompanied by their best friend, Zachary ‘Riff’ Oliver. Later the band was renamed
Black Falcon after the addition of the band’s new front man, Noel Falcon. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The band’s first record, <i>Hell
in a Hand Basket</i>, went double platinum, making Black Falcon a force to be
reckoned with. They’ve released two additional albums since then, and their
latest single, “Ball Busting Bitch” is currently on Billboard’s Top 40. </div>
<span lang="EN">They currently reside in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Kentucky</st1:state></st1:place>, near their
other band mates. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span lang="EN">As I read through his bio, I can’t help but notice how Tyke Douglas is
consistently lumped in with his brother, as opposed to giving him his own
identity. Being a twin myself, I can totally relate to this issue. It’s all too
easy for people to see you as the same person as your twin. It’s what happened
with Annie and me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span lang="EN">I flip through the rest of the links, studying more pictures of Tyke. He’s
very easy on the eyes with his tall frame, tan complexion, and light hair. Even
though he and Trip are twins, their hair sets them apart, making it very easy
to tell the difference between them. The more I stare at the man on my screen,
the more addicted I become to his profile. He’s devastatingly handsome, and the
thought of how attracted I am to just his mere picture scares the shit out of
me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span lang="EN">How am I ever supposed to concentrate on helping this man when he’s my own
personal brand of tattooed man-flavored candy? This will prove to be a very
difficult task, for sure. The best I can hope for is to find that he’s simply
photogenic and absolutely hideous in person. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span lang="EN">I close my laptop and set it on my nightstand before I tug my glasses from
my face and set them on top of it. I double-check my alarm clock and then
snuggle down in my bed after offering up a little prayer that I’ll be able to
contain myself tomorrow. If Tyke is the stereotypical bad-boy rocker that he
appears to be, I’ll need all the help I can get to keep from jumping his bones
and jeopardizing the job I’ve worked so hard to get. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rock-My-Body-Black-Falcon-ebook/dp/B00NS4QA0Y">Purchase Now from AMAZON!!</a></span></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13967108665057332941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7076566115768328326.post-67158659139037078442014-11-06T10:00:00.000-05:002014-11-06T12:51:01.764-05:00Introducing: The Untied Anthology! Six of the Hottest Romance Novels Released in 2014 by Some of Your Favorite New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Authors<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm excited to announce the Untied Anthology I'm apart of! Untied is a collection of six of the hottest romance novels released in 2014 by some of your favorite New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Authors with <b>100%</b> of the proceeds benefiting The Breast Cancer Society.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>
</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>
</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglr_8u7dk0tdVxWocuH5YZOltobPo519z2M7McM3O6HSU6NeYANGpejjj2NwS-Wav82rDDoaSmg3dfSysaof6f85EnZ5ZE3zvvbHYBfzIeGkXRj8vynXyNVNe71B-nEQxe4r3qTvU68Z0/s1600/Untied.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglr_8u7dk0tdVxWocuH5YZOltobPo519z2M7McM3O6HSU6NeYANGpejjj2NwS-Wav82rDDoaSmg3dfSysaof6f85EnZ5ZE3zvvbHYBfzIeGkXRj8vynXyNVNe71B-nEQxe4r3qTvU68Z0/s1600/Untied.JPG" height="400" width="243" /></a></div>
<b>Title:</b> Untied<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Authors:</b> E.K. Blair, Claire Contreras, K.A. Linde, Corinne Michaels, C.D. Reiss, Michelle A. Valentine<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Release Date:</b> November 17, 2014<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cover Designer:</b> Letitia at <b><a href="http://designs.romanticbookaffairs.com/">RBA Designs</a></b><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23500758-untied"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzEavAcQoX9IviKXm2v71aA8UgFHCIEV6OvKaQpFZmDlQem6hUMv1F9wYNLrqoR-qVgDShEPQOV0wex0OqLCjUOkryCXy7y4Qi8KLzxW0bxzdnQKexGO41YP5DzPsoVvwyfVq3I9oxkA/s1600/Add+to+goodreads+badge.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>About Untied</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>
</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What do you want?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you want sex? Do you want love, happiness?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or maybe you want a little suspense?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Could it be you don't know what you want? Could you be in just the right frame of mind to get mind-f*cked until you're looking at your kindle with tears in your eyes asking … What the hell just happened?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe you're ready to have it all?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good. Because you've come to the right place. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These six best-selling authors have bound together the hottest romance novels of 2014. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Get ready to be <i>Untied</i>.<br />
<br /></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>100% of the proceeds benefit The Breast Cancer Society. <o:p></o:p></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>BANG by E.K. Blair, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They say when you take revenge against another you lose a part of your innocence. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I’m not innocent.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My innocence was stolen from me. Taken was the life I was supposed to have. The soul I was born with.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until now. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I’m ready to take back what was always meant to be mine.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But every plan has a fatal flaw. Sometimes it’s the heart.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect online with E.K. at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EKBlairAuthor">https://www.facebook.com/EKBlairAuthor</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>THE DEVIL’S CONTRACT by Claire Contreras, Bestselling Author<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Features an EXCLUSIVE Bonus scene from There is No Light in Darkness only available in this anthology.<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They say one wrong turn can turn your life to flip inside out, but to Amara Maloof, it was the only turn she could take. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The choice was simple: Her or her family. The outcome... not so much. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thrown into a world of promiscuity and mystery, Amara finds herself stuck between her old life and a new one, where sex is a requirement and secrets can be deadly.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect with Claire online at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CContrerasBooks">https://www.facebook.com/CContrerasBooks</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>TAKE ME FOR GRANTED by K.A. Linde, USA Today Bestselling Author</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grant has never needed a chick for more than a good lay. Why would he need just one when he can have a different one every night? Until she walks into his world. Aribel has worked hard for what she wants, and does what’s expected of her. She doesn’t need anyone to get in her way. Until he opens up her world.<br />
<br /></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect with K.A. online at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/authorkalinde">https://www.facebook.com/authorkalinde</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>BELOVED by Corinne Michaels, Bestselling Author <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Features an EXCLUSIVE Bonus Chapter only available in this anthology</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Catherine Pope is done letting men into her heart just to end up alone. Then she meets Jackson Cole. She can’t easily ignore the sexy, former Navy SEAL — even though he could destroy her forever. His training never prepared him for the battle to win her heart but is he willing to fight that war? When the truths are exposed they'll have to decide if they're truly each other's beloved.<br />
<br /></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect with Corinne online at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CorinneMichaels">https://www.facebook.com/CorinneMichaels</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>KICK by C.D. Reiss, USA Today Bestselling Author</b></div>
<b></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><i>Features a preview of the Songs of Submission Series</i></b></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fiona Drazen, sex addict, submissive slave, celebutante, trapped in a mental ward until Dr. Elliot Chapman can help her remember why she’s there. But once she does, she might not want to go home to the Master she tried to kill.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect with C.D. online at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/CDReiss.writer">http://www.facebook.com/CDReiss.writer</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>PHENOMENAL X by Michelle A. Valentine, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
The newest superstar of professional wrestling and a sheltered good girl fight the explosive chemistry building between them until one lustful night changes everything.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Connect with Michelle online at:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichelleAValentine">https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichelleAValentine</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>
</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>
</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17599886439725116051noreply@blogger.com0