Six Hot Athletes, Six Great Stories

In It to Win It

Six steamy stories to take between the sheets…

Hitting It Out of the Park by Ella Jade

Francesca "Frankie" Cuttino relocated to the baseball-obsessed town of Kingston, Rhode Island to start a new life. She's been taking refuge in her teaching job and indulging in binge watching TV. Welcoming the break from her three-time ex-fiancé, she takes comfort in the much needed alone time. But her sexy new neighbor has her rethinking the single life.

Professional baseball player Jed Silver is on the hitting streak of his career. He's the newest member of the Kingston Crushers and the town's latest obsession. He's enjoying his rookie status and all the attention it earns him with the women. That all changes when he stumbles onto his gorgeous next-door neighbor who doesn't have a clue who he is.

As baseball fever overtakes the town these two heat up the sheets, making for one explosive summer, until Frankie's past catches up with her.

Jab by A.K. Layton

Sabrina Alenin is a self-assured young woman who has a clear plan for her future. As a YouTube blogger who is gaining momentum, she needs the right type of man to help her reach her goal of creating her own empire. A wealthy, older man who likes hot blondes. Mixed martial arts fighter Silvio Almeida does not fit the bill, no matter how infuriatingly irresistible she finds him.

In training for an upcoming MMA fight, women aren't on Silvio's radar. Seeing firsthand how easily life can change in a single moment, he's decided to live life not looking too far into the future. But his path keeps crossing with Sabrina's, and he can't get the beautiful blonde off his mind.

When love throws them from their determined paths, they will have to discover if the best future is the one unplanned.

Soccer Mum by Lisa Knight

When Maggie's ten-year-old son joins a soccer team she hopes it will be an opportunity to meet new people and move forward from the disastrous past months. After all, a broken marriage and returning home to live with her parents wasn't quite how she'd envisioned her thirties.

Agreeing to play soccer herself as part of the parents' team, Maggie's lack of skill requires a little extra coaching. Leo is happy to assist, and Maggie becomes captivated by the former professional player, who ignites feelings she thought had disappeared forever.

But as her ex-husband pressures her to re-kindle their relationship, Maggie's guilt reaches overdrive. How can she possibly consider a future with Leo when there's a chance of putting her family back together?

Second Time Around by Olivia Starke

Kelly Atkins has dedicated her life to caring for the horses at her off-track Thoroughbred rescue. When she's forced to sell part of her land to cover mounting expenses, she's shocked by who steps in to buy it—her high school sweetheart, Dustin. She didn't even know the man had moved back to town. Seeing him brings back memories of the most painful time of her life. Not only had she lost the man she thought she would spend forever with, she had also lost her twin brother. And for years she held Dustin responsible for his death.

Dustin, a former rodeo bronc rider, has plans to start a retired rodeo horse rescue. As he and Kelly start to rekindle the love they once shared, he fears what will happen when she learns his secret. A secret that could drive her away forever.

All You Wanted by Lisa Huffman

Football superstar Wade McKinney is crushed when he's cut from the team. How did this happen? In order to make a comeback, he needs to focus on becoming the best player he can possibly be. Leaving town for a fresh start, he takes a job as a sports reporter at a local news station. With no room in his life for anything else, Wade denies his attraction to co-anchor Rebecca Ryan.

Since tragedy struck mere months ago, Rebecca has become the rock holding her family together, leaving her no time for a personal life. But there's something about Wade McKinney that has her wondering what his story is.

Wade only sees a future in football and Rebecca hasn't the time for a relationship. But when fate steps in, Wade and Rebecca find something they weren't looking for in each other.

Love in Victory Lane by CJ Bower

Racing is all Catalina Bryant has ever wanted to do. She's spent the past fifteen years climbing the ranks and paying her dues, which included fighting off slurs and innuendos regarding her gender. Overcoming many setbacks, she has finally made it to the highest level in NASCAR and is on the eve of starting her rookie season.

Her new crew chief, Chad Kiesgen, is incredible. He has a strong work ethic and amazing integrity. Just the guy to help her reach her goal. However, she hits a speed bump when the sizzling chemistry between them carries over to their personal lives, which could damage both of their careers.

There's another man lurking in the background who wants Cat for himself and will stop at nothing to claim her. Will Cat find love in Victory Lane, or will her career crash and burn before she leaves the starting line?

Content Warning: each of these stories contain a hot athlete and scorching sex scenes

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Title: Dream Girls Series

Author: Carrie Thomas

Genre: New Adult Romance

Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:

Follow best friends, Piper, Stephanie and Nicole on their journey into womanhood, falling in love, and a future they've all dreamed of. This is the complete series in a box set.

Dream Girls: Piper: Piper Allen is looking to spread her wings and unfortunately, her podunk hometown in Missouri is stunting her spiritual growth. Moving to Dallas to finish up college with her two friends, Stephanie and Nicole, she hopes to challenge herself to reach new heights. Her bohemian ways allow her to float through relationships frequently and with ease; when there are no strings attached, there is no chance of being hurt.

Texas rancher, Moye McKenzie, is a no nonsense, good ol' boy, who doesn't play games where matters of the heart are concerned. When this straight-shooter walks into Piper's life, sparks fly and tempers flare. Wanting to give her the life she deserves, Moye has to show her that getting hurt can happen whether you're holding onto the reins or not.

Dream Girls: Stephanie: Looking to take that first responsible step into adulthood, Stephanie Garner is working toward her college degree in secondary education while serving drinks at a bar to pay the bills. As an ex-gymnast and cheerleader, she might have guys falling at her feet, but she’s a firm believer in monogamy. Even though she has options, serial dating is not her thing.

Her best friend and roommate, the ever charismatic Cole Banks, likes to use his charming smile and silver tongue to his advantage. The more ladies the better; as long as Ms. Right Now doesn’t expect breakfast in the morning. It’s quantity over quality for this bachelor, until he realizes he wants more out of life. Starting a career he can be proud of is a step in the right direction to becoming the man he eventually wants to be.

The lines blur between these roommates almost daily—filled with stolen glances, cuddling, and front flips—but fear of losing their friendship holds both of them back from taking a chance on love. The path of least resistance is not only best for their precarious living arrangement, but for their friendship as well. If they’d just listen to their gut, maybe they’d discover the forever kind of love everyone dreams about.

Dream Girls: Nicole: Nicole Garrett, a self-proclaimed nerd, has had her future planned out for years. Taking chances has never appealed to her on any level, but growing up means adapting to change and accepting that life moves on no matter what. With her best friends, Piper and Stephanie both starting families of their own, Nicole finds herself concentrating harder on her plan to become a doctor, leaving little time for anything else, other than working at the local pub to help cover her living expenses. There is nothing worth more to her than making something of herself—unless you count Corey Tate.

Corey Tate isn’t a self-proclaimed anything. He doesn’t care enough. But ask anyone who has ever been around him and they’ll tell you he’s a bad-boy-recluse, who has a somewhat short fuse. He works hard and plays harder. Even though he has no clue what is involved in having an authentic relationship with a woman, Nicole Garrett has him curious enough to consider trying. Having zero experience in relationships proves to be a challenge for him, both mentally and emotionally.

Timing is everything, right? How much time has to pass before the moment is lost? Two years of knowing glances, private talks, and a connection that surprises them both, come to a head when Corey draws a line in the sand. Can these two very different people find their way to a love that can last forever, or will their own flaws ruin what could have been? If Corey and Nicole could get out of their own heads, they might just find out the difference between falling in love and being in love.

Author Bio:

Carrie Thomas is the author of young adult and new adult romances. When she’s not writing or reading, you can find her traveling the U.S. or stalking her favorite bands. She lives in the South with her husband and two sons. Aside from traveling, any time spent with her family she considers a good day. She’s a firm believer that book lovers should stick together.

Author Links:

Email: carriethomas138@yahoo.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieThomasAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarrieThomas138

Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/user/CarrieThomasAuthor

Instagram: www.instagram.com/carriethomas_author/

Amazon: http://amzn.to/295U7zF

Buy Links:

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Other books by Carrie Thomas:

Dream Girls: Piper - http://amzn.to/28YwNmv

Dream Girls: Stephanie - http://amzn.to/292WDES

Dream Girls: Nicole - http://amzn.to/292WmSe

Hooked - http://amzn.to/28WyrQI

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Cover Reveal: Tessa's Temptation by Ella Jade

This book has been months in the making. It doesn't release until September 12, 2014 but I thought it was time to get you all excited and reveal the cover and blurb for my newest contemporary romance...

What happens when the siren becomes the tempted?

College student Tess Burke is on the verge of eviction. Her life changed when her dad was in a bad car accident. He’s been in the hospital for months and making little progress. Desperation is setting in. They’re about to lose everything.

Successful architect Chase Carlisle has made a name for himself among the rich and famous. His work keeps him busy, leaving little time for a social life. When an old family friend contacts him and asks him to care for his vibrant, sassy daughter, Chase feels obligated to take her in; Patrick Burke had helped him when he was a troubled teenager, heading down a path of destruction. If not for Pat, Chase would have never become the man he is today.

The wild child turns Chase’s world upside down, tempting him in ways he can’t resist. The sexy younger woman shows him what he’s been missing the past few years. Their attraction is obvious from the beginning despite Chase’s apprehension to getting involved with Pat’s daughter. Tess wears him down but gets caught in her own trap when she becomes the object of his deepest, darkest desires.

***

I can't wait to share this story with you. It's hot, sassy and oh-my-freakin'-god steamy. 

“I want to back away from you; I don’t want to let you in.” How much longer could he fight her? Fight these baser instincts?

“Then go.” The certainty in her eyes gave him clarity. This was her last attempt where he was concerned.

“I can’t, Tessa. Your pull is too strong.” He lowered his mouth to hers, focusing on those forbidden lips. The devil did exist. She stood in front of him as the flirtatious redhead who now consumed his mind, body and soul. “I can’t resist your temptation anymore.”

“Then don’t.”

***

Do you want to know the second this book goes live? Of course you do ;)

Just fill out this form and I'll email you once I have the links.

Tessa's Temptation Release

Happy Birthday Beachwalk Press!

Beachwalk Press turns 3 this month and I couldn't be more pleased

to be a part of this fantastic company.

Welcome to the Birthday bloghop!

Here are three things I love about being an author.

1) Making sense of the stories floating around in my head and getting them out for the world to read all while never having to go to an office. My two little dogs are my co-workers.

2) I love the encouragement from fans and readers.

3) Creating new worlds where anything is possible and allowing people to escape in the pages of my work.

Prizes, prizes, prizes!

We are giving away plenty, including a grand prize of a $100 gift certificate to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble. (Winner's choice!)

My personal giveaway is an ecopy of both The First Night and Hijacked.

Want to enter? All you have to do is comment and don't forget to leave your email so we can contact you if you're a winner.

Thanks so much for stopping by. Also, if you want the chance to win more prizes, visit the other Beachwalk Author blogs below.

Tabitha Rayne

Jaye Shields

Tara Mills

M.A. Stacie

Olivia Starke

Ashlynn Monroe

Pepper Anthony

Lacey Wolfe

Laura Beth Peters

Imogene Nix

Stephanie Beck

Ella Jade

Emily Wood

Theresa Stillwagon

Constance Bretes

Tracey Rogers

Tamaria Soana

Nola Cross

Stealing His Heart

Stealing His Heart

Ella Jade

Thanks so much for hosting me today. I’m thrilled to announce the release of my newest erotic, contemporary romance Stealing His Heart. If you like your men hot, dirty and southern, I may have just the thing for you.

When the players take the field this spring come meet my players...

Blurb

Will the bad-boy pitcher strike out when it comes to love?

Shy music teacher Sophia Ballis has sworn off men. After a bad experience with a college jock she decided it was better to be alone than to get burned again. She focused on her education and now her new job at a local private school.

Professional baseball pitcher Paxton Hughes is a player both on and off the field. He's signed to the Kingston Crushers to bring home the coveted championship title. Nothing can get in his way. Serious relationships don't mix with a life on the road and he never loses focus on the game. One-night stands are his specialty for a reason.

While out jogging one spring morning, the two collide, setting their course in motion. Pax is immediately drawn to the unassuming beauty. Sophia is aware of his reputation and decides one night of meaningless sex with the attractive Texas charmer is just what she needs to get over her self-imposed dry spell. Pax has more than a one-night stand on his mind, but will his bad-boy persona and demanding schedule ruin any chances of a happily ever after?

Content Warning: contains explicit sex and adult content

Beachwalk Press Buy Link

Excerpt

“Can I walk you to your car?”

“Thank you.” Sophia got up from the table and took his hand. “I’m parked right out front.”

Pax led her across the dance floor, waving to the few people who were left, and then out to the parking lot.

“It’s that one.” She pointed to her beat-up car, the one she’d bought her freshman year of college. It was used then but it still managed to get her where she needed to go. “Probably not as nice as what you drive.”

He leaned her against the car and wrapped his arms around her waist. Her heart pounded hard against her chest, strumming loud between her ears. She could smell the beer that lingered on his breath. His hazel eyes narrowed as he swiped the tip of his tongue along his top lip before tilting his head.

“I have a feeling I’m going be seeing you in my dreams tonight.” He sighed as he brought his mouth to hers. “Give me something to remember these next few days.”

She nodded as she placed her hands on his broad shoulders and guided him to her, closing any space between them. When his warm lips touched hers, she thought she would explode. A burn coursed through her and settled between her legs. The mild tingling she’d experienced when they danced was nothing compared to the intensity she felt now.

As he deepened the kiss, his tongue massaged hers. Increasing his hold on her hips, he pinned her between the car and his massive thighs. She tightened her grip on him when his erection grazed her center. Every nerve ending in her begged to be satiated. The ache inside her stomach moved lower until the dampness invaded her panties. Her nipples poked against the thin material of her silk bra.

When she moaned into his mouth, he placed one last kiss on her lips before pulling away. He looked at her for a moment, pressing his forehead to hers, as he stuttered a few words.

“That was...well, I’ve never...” He ran his fingers through his hair. “You have me tongue-tied, sugar. That doesn’t happen often.”

Now she wanted to know what else he could do with that tongue.

“You best get in that car and drive away before I...”

She’d never wanted to have a one-night stand more than she did at that very moment. Maggie had said if there was ever a guy to have one with, Pax would be the one. He was a no-strings-attached player. Why hadn’t he asked her to go home with him?

“Be safe driving home.” He reached for the handle and opened her door. “You have some sweet dreams. I know I sure will.”

Sleep? That was the last thing on her mind.

About Ella

Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.

Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking.

She hopes you'll get lost in her words.

You can connect with her at:

Blog: http://ellajadeauthor.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ella-Jade-Author/186959391390708?ref=hl

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ellajade1

GIVEAWAY

I’m giving away a Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer, A Keychain with the cover art and signed swag to three winners throughout the tour. Enter here...

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Thanks for stopping by. I hope you’ll consider adding Stealing His Heart to your TBR pile.

Phantom Lover

Phantom Lover by Tamaria Soana

Morning and thanks for having me on your site today!

I’m here to tell you about my newest release Phantom Lover. The idea for Phantom Lover came to me one day last year while I was driving and Sweet Dreams by Beyoncé came on. I couldn’t get the idea out of a phantom lover of sorts out of my end, so I began to hash out the story.

~*~*~

Can true love transcend life and death?

Olivia Shaw-Clayton’s life revolves around her job ever since her husband was killed eight months ago in Iraq. She slaves away at her desk in hopes of numbing the pain of her loss and the guilt of longing to fall asleep once again to be joined by her phantom lover.

 

Phantom Lover is erotic short story with a paranormal twist!

Read an Except:

Olivia was out waiting for her friends at Vipers after work, when in walked the most gorgeous man that she’d ever seen wearing an Army uniform. He was tall and built like a god. She watched as he took off his coat and placed it over his shoulder.  She licked her lips at the sight of him in a t-shirt.  His huge arms were covered in tattoos. She knew she was staring, but couldn’t tear her eyes off of him. Finally, she turned away and took a sip of her almost empty drink. When she looked up again, she found the most amazing hazel eyes gazing at her. She thought her heart was going to stop right there. He smiled and began to walk toward her.

“Hello, my name is Aaron Clayton and I was wondering if you’d do me the honor of having a drink with me?”  He extended his hand.

Olivia bit her lower lip and took his hand in hers. He smelled just as good as he looked. It was a mix of amber, musk, and spice.

“Hi,” she finally sputtered out as he brought the top of her hand toward his mouth. She cleared her throat. “My name is Olivia.”

“Nice to meet you, Olivia.” His smoldering eyes never left hers as he placed a gentle kiss on top of her hand.

Her heart fluttered and a warm jolt rushed through her body. A feeling she’d never had before. All her senses seemed at that moment to be on fire. All she could think, smell or breathe was this stranger that stood in front of her. She cleared her throat again, in hopes of snapping herself out of the trance she was in. “I’m meeting my friends, but I’m early, so a drink sounds great.”

He smiled. My friends are in the back playing pool, but they can wait.” He winked. “What are you drinking?”

“Gin and tonic, please.”

He leaned toward her. “I’ll be right back,” he whispered in her ear.

A shiver went down her spine and her stomach fluttered as she watched him walk toward the bar. By God his ass is fine! Her mind swirled with all the things she would like to do to that body. Get a grip. Olivia. You just met him and you already want to jump his bones. Olivia looked around the bar and noticed that most of the girls’ eyes were on Aaron. Jealousy spiked through her veins but at the same time she felt a little smug that he'd walked up to her. Now all she needed to do was figure out how to get to know him better. If she had her way she would be underneath him by the end of the night.

“Here you go,” he said as he handed her a drink. “So, Olivia, tell me about yourself?”

She quickly glanced around at all the other females glaring at her and a large smirk crossed her lips. Ladies, eat your heart out! He’s talking to me. She quickly focused her attention on the god in front her, smiling at her with the sexiest dimples she’d ever seen, and she melted.

Buy Links:    Crimson Frost Books   Amazon

Watch the Book Trailer: 

Youtube

A Little About Me:

Tamaria Soana is middle aged, but just feels her life has begun. She writes sexy contemporary romance stories that always end with a ‘happily ever after’. Growing up she loved to read and make up new places in her head to escape to. In her late teens she began writing short stories and poetry; it wasn’t until her late thirties before she began to spin a full story.

She’s married and a stay-at-home-mom of two beautiful young girls, they reside in Western New York. Cuddling up with a good book under an electric throw is her way to escape the cold Buffalo nights. Besides writing, she co-owns Shades of Rose Marketing and hosts a talk show on Talkshoe called Live with Tamaria ~ Giving authors a voice.

Where You Can Find Me:

    Site     Facebook Author Page     Twitter

Giveaway Time:

I’m giving away a $10.00 Amazon Gift Card. Just fill out the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win!

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New Release: If You Want Me

An irresistible woman. An undeniable proposal.

Even the unthinkable can sound reasonable when you mix alcohol, sexual frustration, and a bachelorette party—especially a bold proposition. Now in the light of day, Naomi’s hung over, horrified, and anxious about facing this complicated man again and the unexplored feelings their encounter brought with it.

She called, he came, but Ryan didn't exactly conquer. Is it too much to hope that Naomi will give him a do-over? She can’t avoid him, not when he’s walking her down the aisle. But who ever heard of a bridesmaid getting cold feet? 

Excerpt:

 “I really need to get laid,” slurred Naomi, sagging drunkenly against her friend Becky.

   The entire table fell silent and stared at her. Every squeal over the upcoming honeymoon, every gush over the bridal gown came to a screeching halt. 

   Becky turned on her, aghast, then shoved Naomi upright in her chair again. “What the hell?” she hissed under her breath. 

   Naomi scrunched up her brow, perplexed as she weaved and wobbled, trying to focus on all the faces swimming in front of her. The female half of tomorrow’s wedding party. Each of them decked out and tarted up for tonight’s bachelorette blow-out.

   “What?” Naomi asked, stupefied by the wide eyes directed her way. “It’s been six months. Six damn months!” she added in a woeful tone. “Who wouldn’t have boner on the brain?”

   Two of the women across the table started to laugh behind their hands, but Becky shot to her feet anyway and grabbed Naomi’s arm, hauling her up too.

   “Sorry about this.” Becky gave Melissa, the bride, a pained and apologetic smile. “I think someone’s had one too many appletinis.”

   Becky grabbed both purses and slipped them over her arm and dragged Naomi through the crowded club and out to the sidewalk. She caught the eye of the first valet she saw and handed him the ticket. He dashed off to get their car.

   “He’s kinda cute,” said Naomi, swaying on her heels, her eyes fixed on his back as he disappeared into the night.

   Becky gritted her teeth. “Would you stop?”

   “Stop what?” Naomi blinked, nonplussed.

   “The horny talk. It’s embarrassing.”

   Naomi frowned. “Is it? I’m sorry. I just need sex. I really want it, Beck. I want it bad.”

   “So I gather. No alcohol for you tomorrow.”

   That comment earned a snort. “Who cares about alcohol?”

   “It makes you weird.”

   “Don’t I know it!” Naomi nodded sagely. “Beck, I’m getting the strangest ideas.”

   “Yeah, I noticed.” Their car pulled up and Becky caught hold of Naomi’s upper arm and steered her to the curb. A second valet came forward to open the passenger door while the first man got out and waited for Becky on the driver’s side.

   Naomi gave the guy holding her door a sweet smile and cupped his ass before dropping gracelessly into the passenger seat. One of her shoes fell to the pavement next to the car. The guy bent down and picked it up. He had a funny little smile going, and if she wasn’t totally mistaken, he was chuckling.

   “Like Cinderella!” Naomi laughed when he handed it to her then stuck her bare foot out the open door at him. “Don’t you want to put it on me?”

   Becky snapped at her from the driver’s side, “Naomi! Shut the hell up and let the guy close your door.”

   Naomi snickered and rolled her eyes at the valet, making a joke of her uptight friend. “Guess it’s time to go.”

   He closed her in with a nod and a wink. She gave him a little wave that he returned as Becky pulled into traffic.

   “Who are you, and what have you done with my friend?” Becky asked, blowing her bangs out of her eyes.

   “She’s in here somewhere.” Naomi drooped onto her door and squinted at the strobing lights coming right at them. “Did you notice Ryan at dinner earlier tonight?”

   Becky glanced sharply at her friend. “Is that what this is all about?”

   “Hmm?” 

   “Never mind. Let’s get you home, dump a ton of water into you, and put you to bed. You need to be in good shape by tomorrow afternoon or Melissa’s mom is going to kill you, and Melissa is going to be the one handing her the cake knife she’ll use.”

   Naomi laughed as she pictured the mother-of-the-bride wielding the special cake knife with color coordinated ribbons fluttering from the handle.

   “That’s not gonna happen,” she assured Becky.

   “Of course it’s not. Because you’re going home and I’m putting you to bed.”

   Naomi gave a deep and disappointed sigh. “Party pooper.” 

   “And whose fault is that?”

   Naomi shrugged then drifted off to sleep. She didn’t revive until the car pulled in front of her duplex. 

   “We’re here.” Becky gave her shoulder a shake. “Wake up. Are you awake?”

   “Yeah.” Naomi blinked and rubbed her temple. “Where’s my purse?”

   “On the floor, by your feet.” Becky hopped out and walked around the car. “Come on, let’s get you inside.”

   “I’ve got it.” She shoved her shoulder against the door and nearly tumbled out. Luckily Becky was there in time to haul her back before she did a face plant on the driveway. “Thank you.”

   Beck held out her hand. “Give me your damn purse. There’s no way you’re going to be able to unlock the front door yourself.”

   Naomi didn’t argue. She took another stab at getting out and managed to close the car door without catching any body parts in it. Weaving on her feet, she clomped up the driveway, her gait even more ridiculous because she was still holding the one shoe the valet had given her at the club. 

   Becky had already gotten the door open and the inside lights turned on by the time Naomi made it up the three concrete steps, grabbing hold of the wrought iron banister to keep from staggering backwards on her way up.

   “Should I brew a pot of coffee?” Becky asked, coming back from putting Naomi’s purse in her room.

   Naomi yawned and mussed up her hair, destroying all the hard work she’d put into getting the big silky curls just right earlier that evening. “No, I can manage. Thanks for bringing me home.”

   “Should I stay?”

   “No. I’ll be fine.”

   Becky eyed her skeptically. “You’re sure? You weren’t yourself tonight.”

   Naomi covered her eyes with both hands and expelled a big alcohol infused breath. “I know, Beck,” she peered out, pouting at her friend. “I’m sorry if I embarrassed you tonight.”

   “I guess we all have our off days. This was yours. I’ll get over it. It’s not like you do this kind of thing, well ... ever.” Becky laughed and came over, giving Naomi a hug goodnight. “So I’ll see you in the morning?”

   “At brunch.”

   “Eleven. Don’t forget to set your alarm. Something tells me you’re going to need it.”

   “I got it. I got it.”

   Becky kissed her on the cheek, uncertainty in her eyes as she peered at Naomi one last time. “You sure I shouldn’t stay?”

   “Very sure.”

   “Then I’ll see you in the morning.”

   “Sounds good.”

   Naomi limped to the door and locked it behind her friend. As soon as Becky had backed out of the driveway, Naomi kicked off her lone shoe, raced to her bedroom, and dumped the contents of her purse onto the bedspread.

   “Oh yeah!” she cheered. Grabbing the phone, she went immediately to the wedding party contact sheet on her dresser and followed down the line of ushers for Ryan’s name.

   He answered after two rings. Even tipsy she could hear the question in his voice. “Naomi?”

   “Yes. Where are you?”

   “At the bachelor party. Why?”

   “Here’s the thing. I know you had a problem with me dating Sam. You were his friend and I created a lot of tension between you two. I get it. But I’m guessing some of that attitude was just bullshit. I caught you.”

   “You caught me?”

   “Yes, I caught you; watching me, looking at me. I could tell you were covering.”

   “What’s this all about, Naomi? What’s your point?”

   “If you want me, I’m yours. I’m putting on sexy lingerie right now. You have fifteen minutes to get here. You know the address.”

   Naomi cut the call and eased open the top drawer of her dresser.

                                                         * * *

   Ryan pulled the phone away from his ear and stared at it. Was she serious? Was this for real? Could he even make it in fifteen minutes?

   He hadn’t seen Naomi Kendall in months—five long and lonely months, and then …today. He could hardly tear his eyes away from her at the groom’s dinner. She looked incredible; that warm almond skin, those dark brown eyes, all that soft glorious hair. A man could get lost in that hair. They’d barely had a chance to speak to each other but he’d tuned in to her voice. No matter where she was, he heard Naomi over all the rest. Every one of her laughs registered with him. It was excruciating and thrilling at the same time. Then the party broke up and the guys and girls went their separate ways. Disappointed at seeing her climb into a car and drive away, he told himself it was okay, he’d get another shot at her tomorrow.

   Talk about being thrown for a loop.   

   Well, she’d read him right. How the hell did she do that? Clearly, he wasn’t as careful as he thought.

   “Dude! It’s your turn,” said an impatient voice.

   Ryan looked up and found his friends watching him. He closed the fan of cards in his hand. There was only one thing to do. “I fold.”

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