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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Tessa's Temptation

I'm thrilled to announce the release of Tessa's Temptation. This hot, steamy, full length novel will heat up your sheets! 

Get Tempted Tonight...

 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, he 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.

Contains adult content and graphic sex

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Excerpt...

“I wanted to talk about last night.”
“What about it?” Tess turned to look at him, her auburn locks blowing in the light breeze that danced through the porch.
“Tessa, about that kiss…” Chase stared out at the property. “I’m sending all these mixed vibes. I’m never this indecisive.” He was used to taking what he wanted and worrying about consequences later. With her, everything was different. She threw him off balance and made him think about his every move.
“Don’t worry about it. We both know we’re attracted to one another. It happened and it’s not a big deal.”
“It isn’t?” When had she become so mature? Why wasn’t she trying to convince him that they should be together?
“Is that what you wanted to tell me?”
“Not really but if you’re okay with it...” He shook his head; the heat of her breath had lingered on his lips for hours after that kiss. Every time he closed his eyes he felt her sigh against his mouth. “I can’t forget about it. I know I told you we couldn’t be together but none of my reasons make sense anymore. The more time I spend with you the more I want you.”
“Are you saying you want to be with me?”The look of vulnerability in her eyes scared him. She put on a good act when it came to being tough but he knew the truth. There was a sweetness; an innocence about her. One that told him she was still a girl; still on the verge of becoming a woman – who needed to be loved, respected and desired. God help him, but he wanted to be the man to show her all of that, and give her the world. 
“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.”
“I’m not sure I’m the right man for you.”
“Why can’t you let me decide for myself?” She let out a frustrated breath. “I’ve been making choices about my life for a long time. I don’t need you to do what you think is best for me. That’s not helping either one of us. All you’re doing is making both of us miss out on something wonderful.”
He admired her spirit. That vibrant spirit and uninhibited determination. “I know you’re capable of making your own choices.” He kissed a path to her ear. “You’re capable of so many things. I want to be the man who helps you realize all of your dreams.” He moved his mouth along her jaw and back to her lips. “I can’t fight this anymore. I won’t.”
“It’s about time.” She kissed him, sweeping her tongue inside his mouth. “We’ve been doing nothing but wasting time,” she said when she finally stopped for a breath.
“No, we haven’t.” He took her face between his hands. “We have all the time in the world. We can take everything slow. I want you Tessa, but after our explosive chemistry in the study, I think moderation is in order.”
“Would you be this controlled with anyone other than me?”
“No.” That was the truth. Patience was not a virtue in his world.
“Then why?”
“Because I care about you. I don’t want to screw this up.”
“Oh.”
“Don’t be so surprised. I’ve grown quite fond of you.” He kissed her softly. “I want to do this right for a change.”
“You don’t need to be so careful with me.”
“I do. Trust me.” He stroked her soft cheek. “Why don’t you get some breakfast while I shower?”
“I could shower with you…” She grinned provocatively. “That might be fun.”
“Don’t tempt me.” He pressed his lips to her forehead. “When you’re ready we’ll go get those pumpkins, maybe visit your dad and then stop somewhere for a late lunch. How does that sound?”
“Like a date?” She trailed her finger down his chest to his waistband. “I’d love to.”
“Perfect.” He kissed her one more before pulling away. At this rate they’d never leave the porch. “I’ll see you in a bit.”
“Are you sure?” She gripped his biceps, pulling him back to her. “We could stay here and just… get to know one another.”
Good God, but she was a cheeky addiction! 
“I love your fearlessness but we’ll stick with my plan.” He tapped the tip of her nose with his finger. “We’ll leave in an hour.”
“Fine,” she huffed as she walked over to the porch swing. “I’ll be ready.”
He laughed as he made his way into the house, dropping his mug off in the sink before hurrying up the back staircase, taking two steps at a time. The faster he showered, the sooner they could be together. Tessa was right, he had been wasting time, but no more. Today was a new day, full of so many possibilities.
He stripped out of his pajama bottoms and t-shirt while he waited for the water to heat up in the large, master shower. Thoughts of her wet, soapy and naked with him in the stall did nothing for his persistent erection. He stepped into the shower and let the hot water flow over his tense muscles. The multiple shower heads drenched his skin as the heavy steam filled the room. He closed his eyes and let his mind disengage, but then the stall door opened.

***
Would you stay up to read the next chapter? 

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 boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy creating sexy, domineering men and the strong women who know how to challenge them in and out of the bedroom.  She hopes you'll get lost in her words.

She loves connecting with readers. You can find her here…

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New Release: Let It Burn

Hello everybody! Thank you for stopping by to read about my new release

Let It Burn…

Sometimes one person can make you question

everything you thought you wanted.

Lydia James is a struggling scriptwriter with big dreams. She's determined to conquer the movie world, and equally determined to stay out of the limelight while she does it. So what happens when she meets Ryan Sharpe, a British actor and Hollywood's next big thing? He could hold the keys to her future, but with him, flying under the radar doesn't seem to be an option.

Ryan has learned his lesson when it comes to women. In his experience, relationships mean heartache and pain. But when he meets Lydia, everything changes. She's a breath of fresh air, and everything he didn't even know he was looking for. There's just one problem—she doesn't want to be a part of his life. Will a weekend in Saint-Tropez give Ryan the opportunity he needs to win Lydia's heart, or will their desires turn to ashes?

Content Warning: explicit sex

Excerpt

"So what is it about the party that you're so desperate to avoid, Lydia James?"

She sucked a breath in and blew it out slowly. She didn't miss Ryan's eyes flickering to her breasts as her chest heaved. They lingered there for a moment.

"Honestly, I'm totally out of my depth." She paused, wondering how much he would actually want to know and how much would just be a rant. She decided to go for it anyway. "I'm a writer. Or at least, I want to be. I have a story…a script. I also have an agent who brought me here to make connections. That's what he said anyway, but…he's been hinting that he expects to get something out of this, if you get what I mean."

"Ah."

"Yeah. Obviously, I would never do that. But how the hell do I get out of this? Do you have any idea how hard it is to get an agent?" She remembered who she was talking to. "Of course you do." And then she looked at him again—he probably had exclusive rights to Hollywood based on his jaw-dropping good looks. Even mere mortals like directors and producers bowed down to gods. "So my problem is how do I get out of this without him blackening my name forever?"

Ryan's face had been a picture of amusement since the moment he'd turned on the light. But suddenly something far more dangerous danced in his eyes, although he was obviously struggling to hide it. A thrill shocked her whole body before finally settling in her lower abdomen.

"The damage has been done," Ryan said. His voice was slow and tight. "You can kiss your agent goodbye. Not literally though. I'm afraid the industry is rife with people like that, and if he doesn't take you seriously now, then no offense, but no amount of sexual favors are going to change his mind."

The blush that had colored her cheeks earlier was nothing compared to the heat that filled them under Ryan's angry gaze. Her skin was suddenly so hot that it made her eyes water. She felt dirty and ashamed, and she hadn't even done anything. Jesus, she wouldn't have even dreamed of doing anything with that man out there.

"I already knew that," she snapped. "I came in here to get away. But how do I… Whatever I do now I'll offend him."

The anger in Ryan's face melted away enough for mischief to creep in. He stood up, walking over to her in a slow, deliberate way that had her heartbeat doing the exact opposite. She pressed her back against the door as he approached. He was even more captivating up close. A tiny corner of her consciousness worried about what he intended to do while the rest of her screamed approval at all of the naughty things racing through her mind.

But of course, she wasn't in a fairy tale, and heartbreakingly handsome actors didn't kiss lowly dreamers like herself. He stopped short, his perfectly sculpted lips moving to breathe in her ear rather than meet her own. Lydia let her eyes flicker closed, his intoxicating, spicy scent threatening to turn her into a puddle at his feet.

"If the only man who could make your career is about to drop you, then there's only really one thing to do."

"What's that?" Lydia managed to croak, painfully aware of how close she was to touching heaven.

"Make sure everybody else knows your name."

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About Author

I have always believed that the best stories are the ones that you can't put down, the ones that transport you to a different place and make you believe in the characters. This is exactly why I write… I have always loved the escapism that reading and writing provides, and there is nothing more exciting than imagining your own set of characters, and then letting them practically write the story for you. Writing has always been a dream of mine, and I'm lucky to have the kind of people around me that have always nurtured and encouraged my passion. 

I live a cozy little life in Wales, and when I'm not writing I'm taking care of my young family, and studying for a degree in Classical Studies. I love traveling to new places, meeting new people, and experiencing new things…it's all great inspiration for my books!

Author Links

Blog: www.emilywoodauthor.blogspot.co.uk

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmilyWoodAuthor

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Can't Let You Go

Falling for him was easy, but can she let him go?

After a year of travel, fun-loving pool shark Lynette Brooks has settled in Pineville to be near her cousin. She doesn't plan to be there long, and she doesn't expect fate to step in, sweeping her off her feet. But when she meets the serious cop, Ty Sellers, she sees a challenge and is determined to get to know him.

Ty is a no-nonsense, by-the-book lawman who keeps to himself. Living in a fog of misery is exactly what he deserves, and getting emotionally attached to someone is not an option…until he meets Lynette. She's spontaneous, reckless, and a gorgeous haphazard of a woman who threatens to break through his guarded walls and unsettles emotions he buried long ago.

The chemistry between them is undeniable, but the guilt Ty lives with every day causes him to push Lynette away. All she wants is him, but how much of his wavering can she take before letting go for good?

Content Warning: strong language and graphic sex

Excerpt

Lynette slipped her shoes off, rolled her jeans to her knees, and dipped her feet in the cool lake. A massive weeping willow loomed overhead, by the light of the night the cascading leaves looked like a flowing waterfall.

She stared at the tree for a moment then flashed Ty a smile. "Thanks for bringing me here."

He put the cooler down next to an iron framed chair with beige cushions and sat on the edge. "I called in a favor. No big deal."

"Sharon and Kyle are pretty great. I've been to their house, seen the tropical paradise backyard, but this… I had no idea it was so beautiful. No wonder Kayla asked to have her wedding here." She raised an eyebrow, gave him a teasing grin. "Have you decided yet if you're going?"

"Depends."

"Well, if you do go, be warned, there will be dancing." Lynette plucked her feet from the water and stood. She grabbed her phone from her front pocket and searched through her music. She'd never danced lakeside under moonlight, and didn't want to pass up the chance, or the opportunity to be in his arms again. "You might want to practice. After all, there's no better way to woo the ladies. What will your date think if you're not fully prepared to swing her around the dance floor as if you own it?"

"Are you saying I'm a bad dancer, Miss Brooks?"

"Nope. I'm seizing the moment." She hit play on her phone, and a slow melody filled the silence of the night air. "Dance with me."

"Here?" he asked, glancing around at their surroundings.

"Of course! Why not?" Lynette grabbed his hand and pulled him to his feet. The hint of a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. The gesture caused all kinds of crazy little birds to take flight in her chest. "What else are we gonna do? Sit here and drink beer until we both pass out?" She laughed once then stood firm, feigning a serious face. "Wait, you didn't bring me out here to the most romantic spot I've seen in forever for nothing, did you?"

"I thought you'd like it." A huge smile plastered his face.

Ty took her other hand, maneuvered her in a half twist so her back was to his chest, then spun her out to the extent of his arm and back in where they faced each other. His right hand landed on the small of her back and pulled her close. He chuckled and did some kind of waltz type step to the music. Placing his palm on her chest, he pushed until her back arched in a way she never knew it could. Slowly, Ty ran his hand down the length of her torso, leaving a trail of unbridled heat that sent every ounce of blood in her body gushing straight to her core. By the time he jerked her back up her entire body had become a trembling heap. When their eyes met, she nearly came apart and fell through the cracks of the wood decking.What the hell?

Lynette wrapped her arms around his neck to keep from sliding through his hold, and tried her damnedest to control her lungs. She swallowed hard to tamp down the shaking in her throat. It didn't work, and her words came out sounding weak, quavering. "Someone's showing off."

"Someone asked for it," he said, low and resolute.

                                          

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About the author

Sidda Lee Tate has spent most of her life creating stories. Writing and reading are two of her great loves. Romance and eroticism with an HEA are her favorites. Whether her words make readers cry or laugh or just downright hot, she is proud to take people on a journey with her characters.

Sidda lives in a small town in Arkansas with her husband, son and four dogs.

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New Release by Olivia Starke

The Baby Contract by Olivia Starke

Having a baby is Abby's dream. Will Liam's enemies stop her happily ever after?

Liam Whitmore III is floored by the surprise stipulation in his father's will—provide an heir within one year or he'll lose the controlling portion of Whitmore Incorporated to his cousin Spencer. The corporation is Liam's life. He'll do anything to keep his cousin's hands off of it, including finding a woman who'll bear his child. Though finding the right woman seems an impossible task since he doesn't have room in his life for anything except running the company. 

He doesn't want a wife, just an heir.

Abby Haden's family is about to lose their ranch, the only life her ailing father and brother have ever known. She feels helpless and is desperate to help. When the most coveted bachelor in Austin, Liam Whitmore III, also known as the Takeover Tyrant, offers to pay her to have his child it seems too incredible to be true. She's all but given up hope of ever having a baby. Not only will her dream of being a mother come true, but she can also save the family ranch.

It was just supposed to be a business deal, but Abby and Liam find it hard to keep their hearts out of what it takes to make a baby. Even as they sort out their feelings, others have their eye on Whitmore Incorporated. Liam and Abby will soon discover how far they'll go to make sure Abby never produces that heir.

Content Warning: contains graphic sex, explicit language, mild violence, and a heroine with a history of domestic abuse

The Baby Contract – Excerpt

Abby closed her eyes tight and pressed send on her phone. Liam's phone rang once, twice, three times. A bit relieved, she waited to be routed to his voicemail.

"Liam Whitmore's office."

She sucked in a hard breath and nearly dropped the phone. "Uh…hi…this is Abby Haden, Abigail Haden that is."

"Yes, Miss Haden," the receptionist said quickly. "Please hold."

Several seconds passed.

"This is Liam."

"I…" Abby paused, searching her heart one last time. Her grip on her cellphone tightened, and her courage failed. "I…I…"

"What's the holdup?" Liam asked, his voice gruff.

She flinched. "H-holdup?" she stammered.

"Seven hundred fifty thousand dollars, and that's the final offer, Miss Haden. Take it or leave it."

Abby blinked. "That's not—"

"Take it or leave it," Liam interrupted. "I want an answer now."

His brisk tone set her on edge and raised her ire.

Her courage returned. "Fine, but I have a requirement."

His pause felt tangible through the phone, and she feared he'd had second thoughts. Not that she'd back down from her decision.

"What is it?" He nearly growled the question.

She filled her lungs with air. "I want two hundred fifty thousand upon conception, the rest after the baby is born."

Another pause. "We have a deal." His anger had disappeared, his voice holding no hint of emotion.

Abby blew out her pent-up breath. "Okay, good. I've been unable to find a clinic for the…the artificial, um, you know." She placed a cool palm on her flaming hot cheek. If it was possible to die from embarrassment, she'd be a goner for sure.

"I'm not following you, Miss Haden," Liam said. She heard papers shuffling in the background. "I'll have the contract drawn up."

"Artificial insemination," Abby blurted out.

"Artificial insemination?" He sounded taken aback. "I hadn't considered any such thing."

Abby frowned in confusion. "How else are we going to get me pregnant?"

Liam's laughter echoed through the phone. Rich and throaty, it sent a hot tingle down Abby's spine. Goose bumps broke out over her skin.

"Miss Haden, there are such pleasurable ways of making a baby that are quite successful," he said, his voice dropping to a deep rumble over the phone. Abby took a shuddering breath as it did obscene things to her insides. His tone returned to its more business-like manner. "I have a cabin in Aspen. As soon as your cycle is at the most likely time for you to conceive we'll fly up there for a week," he said. "AI would take too much time," he added.

"I-I didn't plan on that," Abby stuttered, her mind reeling. Sex hadn't been in the equation when she'd made her decision. Sex? With Liam? Oh my God. Her heart kicked into overdrive. "Look, Mr. Whitmore—"

"I'll set up an appointment with my physician for STD tests. Can you be there tomorrow afternoon by, say…" He paused briefly. "Three-thirty?"

"Mr. Whitmore, I—"

"Do you know when you'll most likely ovulate again?"

Abby blinked, she was being steamrolled.

"Miss Haden, it's a simple question. I need to know."

She looked at her calendar, she'd already figured up the days in case she'd gotten an appointment at one of the clinics she called. "Um, next week, but listen—"

Liam pushed on. "I'll have everything set up. We can leave for Aspen late Sunday evening. My personal assistant will be in touch tomorrow morning to give you directions to my physician's office."

"Mr. Whitmore, there's no way I can get off work for a week on such short notice. It's Tuesday," she insisted, trying to backpedal.

"It's taken care of. Don't worry, Abigail," he said.

The sound of her given name rolling off his tongue caught her off guard. It stopped her next objection dead in its tracks.

"What's your contact number?" he asked.

Abby gave him her cellphone number.

After a quick 'thank you' Liam hung up, leaving Abby in a bit of a stupor. His driven personality explained his business success, as well as the rumored success he had with women. He was a raging river and she had been helplessly swept along in its current.

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In Love and War by Tara Mills

Sometimes love really is worth fighting for, but picking your battles isn't so easy—especially when lives are at stake.

Personal tragedy and the loss of both parents at a young age made Ariela Perrine cross self-sacrificing hero types off her datable list. But Ariela is literally swept off her feet when an accident brings her face to face with an unforgettable pair of blue eyes, a playful smile, and an overly affectionate dog.

Oh yes, journalist Dylan Bond makes her sizzle, but dare she risk it?  After all, he's just returned from covering conflicts around the globe. With his assurance he'll be handling domestic stories from now on, Ariela's weak resistance crumbles and their relationship intensifies at a dizzying speed. Then an unexpected phone call lures Dylan back to Iraq and he falls off the radar. His disappearance will test them both in ways neither expected. Will it bring them closer or destroy their fragile peace forever? 

In Love and War is on sale now on Amazon.

EXCERPT

“Please, come in.” Ariela grabbed her sweater off the hook on the wall and slipped it on, feeling a little underdressed in her pajamas.

What on earth was he doing here, and how had he found her? Not that she was complaining. Oh no, far from it. He’d made a startling impression on her earlier today. When he’d smiled at her, she could have sworn his brilliant blue eyes were dancing like fairies at a midsummer frolic. Odder still, when he spoke she’d imagined butterflies circling her head. She’d heard tinkling bells. At the time, she hoped it was because of the knock on her head. Now she wasn’t so sure. Just looking at him again was doing crazy things to her mental and physical circuitry.

The guy entered the apartment and gaped at the furniture right out of the sixties. Very familiar with this reaction, Ariela laughed.

“Yeah, I get it. The Jetsons meet Beetlejuice, right? Probably not the décor you’d expect two interior designers to have.”

He shook his head, still blinking as he took it all in.

Overlapping the edges of her unbuttoned sweater, she hugged herself, painfully aware she wasn’t wearing a bra. “Well, there’s a simple explanation. When you’re cash poor and starting a business with next to nothing, you can’t exactly go wild in your own apartment right off the bat. We’re still living with the furniture we had during college, courtesy of Uncle Henry and Aunt Rose—with a few freebies thrown in to make it really eclectic.”

She gestured to their space-age teal sofa. “Please, have a seat. Appearances aside, it’s actually quite comfortable. Can I get you something to drink—juice, tea, coffee maybe?”

 Anything, anything at all?

Turning, he flashed a little dimple. “No thanks. I’m fine.”

He’d get no argument from her.

They sat down and he looked pained when she settled into the bright tangerine-colored armchair. Understandable. It did clash jarringly with her pajamas—pastel balloons floating across a soft pink background. The poor guy blinked several times, seemingly trying to handle the color overload. Biting her lip so she didn’t break out laughing, Ariela tucked her feet up and gave him a slow, curious smile.

He sat up straight, recognizing his cue. “Right. Sorry. I suppose you’re wondering why I’m here.”

“It crossed my mind,” she admitted.

“I didn’t get a chance to give you that business card before they carted you away.”

“Oh, and you brought it to me? That’s so nice of you. Thanks.”

He peered at her intently, more serious now. “How are you?”

Even though she didn’t know him, there was something in his expression that made her believe he could be trusted, and more importantly, he wouldn’t have asked about her if he didn’t honestly want to know. The naked concern radiating out of his deep blue eyes transformed his handsome face into something miles beyond devastating.

“I have a mild concussion.” Why was she blushing?

The corner of his mouth curled up a smidgen. “Headache?”

She felt her warm cheeks flare hotter. What was wrong with her? “Not anymore.”

“Good.” He broke into a full-blown smile and settled back on the sofa, apparently satisfied.

Still reeling from the power of his smile, Ariela shifted uneasily in her chair. “I have a confession— I can’t remember your name. It’s really bugging me.”

His head dropped back and he laughed. “Dylan Bond.”

She brightened. “Like in Bond, Dylan Bond?” She’d remember it now.

His eyebrows flicked up in amusement. “Something like that.”

“Dabbles in international intrigue?” She was toying with him, but it was fun.

He flashed a sexy-assed smile. How many kinds did the guy have? “I’m comfortable being in the middle of the action, but I’m back to working domestically again.”

Say what? Ariela’s eyebrows rose so high she felt her hairline shift. “I think I need a translation. What is it you do?”

He had a great laugh. “I’m a journalist. I just finished a stint in Iraq, but I’m back now. It’s nice not having to deal with body armor and helmets.”

Looking skeptically back at him, she assumed he was putting her on. “Is that right?”

“Actually, yes.” He shifted onto one butt cheek and pulled out his wallet. A second later, he handed her a press pass from a recent event. “I’m working out of my house now—mostly covering the political side of the war.”

She read the pass, her doubts dissolving. “You actually live around here?” She handed the card back and he put it away.

“Sure, why not?”

Shrugging, she said, “Well, Lewiston isn't exactly Washington DC.”

“With the internet and a telephone, you can stay connected from pretty much anywhere. Still, I do plenty of traveling and Washington is only a two hour drive. I can be there and back before Max even notices I'm gone.”

“Max?”

His blue eyes were dancing again. Hello tinkling bells. “My retriever.”

“Ah yes, I remember him now.”

Dylan grinned. “He’s probably the reason you woke up wanting a wet wipe.”

She laughed and his smile deepened. That dimple of his was growing on her.

“Listen,” he said, leaning forward, elbows on his knees. “How about going out with me sometime? We can do something gentle—bumper cars maybe?”

She waited for her retreat mechanism to kick in. It was strangely silent. “Here I was, hoping you’d suggest hang gliding or bungee jumping.”

“Anything you want. I’m flexible.”

Another perfect smile flashed at her and Ariela’s heartbeat spiked. “Sure, why not?”

“Good.” He stood and pulled the business card out of his front pocket. “Here, before I forget.”

Ariela unfolded her legs and reached for the floor with her bare feet. When she rose he was right there with the card. Taking it, she noticed he was taller than she’d initially thought. She supposed that made sense. How well can you judge anyone’s height when you’re on your back?

She walked him to the door. Opening it before she could, he turned and asked, “When?”

“When what?” She watched his eyes move as he took an unabashed tour of her face.

“When can I take you out?”

The birds in her stomach were back, fluttering away. Good thing they were keeping the noise down. “Whenever?”

Dylan gave her a meaningful look, full of promise. “Expect a call.”

Ariela closed the door behind him and fell against it. If she hadn’t locked her knees, she would have been a puddle of melting woman on the floor. As Dylan’s footfalls faded out and the back door shut, she pressed a hand to her excited heart. Something told Ariela that she was in for a wild ride with this one. Hell, just sitting in a quiet room with Dylan was exhilarating. Now she knew it wasn’t just the concussion. There was far more at play here. Scary.

She was about to find out whether Dylan’s hands were capable and steady on the wheel, because he was already in her driver’s seat. She knew it, and judging by the look he gave her on the way out, he knew it too. Suddenly the Beatles were singing Drive My Car in her head.

About the Author

I’m a pampered wife, mother to three fantastic sons, one super daughter-in-law, and proud nana.

I write the stories I like to read. Life is difficult. Love makes it bearable.

Please visit my website Tara Mills Romance  for more great reads and my quirky blog. I’m also on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.