LOVE IS LOUDER - Cover Reveal

 

Book Details:

Title:   Love Is Louder

Author:   Antoinette Candela

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Expected Release:     Fall 2014

Cover Designer:  Robin Harper at Wicked By Design

 

Synopsis:

When does love fall apart? Do you see it? Do you feel it? Can you save it?

When two worlds collide it sets off an unlikely chain of events, creating temptations and feelings that did not exist and changing the course of two random strangers.

A crumbling marriage to a successful husband,
A man fighting to keep his family together, 
Two people looking to reconcile and bury their past lives. 
Lives comes together that would never have been, where one secret will turn their worlds upside down.
What happens when the truth is finally exposed?
Will the both sides end up hurt and alone? 

When does love reappear? Do you see it? Do you feel it? Do you fight for it?
Love is beautiful.
Love is quiet.
Love is ugly.
Love is Louder.

 

 

Goodreads Link:  

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22021426-love-is-louder

 

 

 

Excerpt:

I stand inside my walk-in closet in my black heels, thong, garters, and lace bra, debating on what to wear on this warm, humid, June evening. Short, black, strapless dress or long, silk dress with spaghetti straps?  So many choices.  James loves my legs and shoulders, so I go with the short, strapless dress. Pulling it from the rack, I hold it up in front of me and close my eyes, inhaling a deep breath. We can make it work.

"Brie."

His gravelly voice startles me. Whirling around, I steal a breath when I see his heated eyes rake over my body. His gaze on me never breaks.  I itch to touch him, and I itch for him to touch me, but he controls what happens between us, and I eagerly comply.  I’ve missed the connection so badly that I'd do anything.

"You scared me," I whisper.

Smirking, he pulls at his tie, yanking it loose and works the buttons on the front of his shirt, exposing his muscular tanned chest as he closes the space between us in two long strides. Taking the dress from my hands, he returns it to the rack and rests his hands upon my hips.

"God, you...you look so damn good." He tilts my chin with his finger so that our eyes lock and runs the outside of his hand against my cheek. I can already feel his erection poking my belly as I readily press harder against him.

I don't want to go out to dinner; I want him to take me right now on the floor in my closet.

"Yoga does wonders," I flirt, rubbing my hands down his chest as I eagerly and seductively peel off his white dress shirt, letting it cascade to the floor. This is how it used to be.Spontaneous and hot. I didn't expect this change in him, but I'm not going to sit here and question it. I have the old James back, the James that I fell in love with in college.  I don't want to take things slowly, but I know I have to. I can't appear needy and desperate, even though I want us to get through this. Isn't that what created the distance between us? Needing him too much?

He scrapes his teeth across his bottom lip and pulls me tighter against his body.  "The reservation is at eight. I would love to show you what you do to me when you wear black." He smiles that smile that robbed me of my breath six years ago, and that little dimple appears on his right cheek that teases me to kiss it.  How I've missed him smiling at me like this.

His usual clean-cut face now has a hint of stubble, and his hair is ruffled and has grown a little bit more, making him appear sexier and casual. Is this the first time I've noticed this change? I can't remember because it’s been a while since we spent real time together. I'm guilty of googling "the signs that your spouse is cheating."  At the top of said list is that the spouse changes or alters their appearance to please the new love interest.

Stop it, Brie!  He's taken on more cases at the office. He just doesn't have time. That's all it is.  Enjoy yourself. Live in the moment.

I tug on his hair and meet his gaze, swatting all my insecurities and assumptions out of my mind.  

"What is it that I do to you?"  I taunt, as the rapid beating of my heart drowns out everything except the sound of his voice.

"Let me show you," he groans as he cups my ass, hoisting me up with his powerful arms. I wrap my legs around his waist as he pushes me up against the wall.  I feel a powerful shot of heat course throughout my body at his display of aggression and desire for me.

The wall will work, too.

He brings up his hand and pinches one of my hard nipples through the lace, causing me to arch my back into him. "God, your beautiful tits." He pulls down my bra, exposing my breasts to him. Taking one of my aching nipples into his mouth one at a time, he licks and sucks each one as I pull his hair.

I sense lust, ownership, and desperation growing between us. I grab the back of his neck and guide his face to my lips as he kisses me hard. He feels my tongue, and he opens his lips to allow me in, and we begin to kiss earnestly.  His hand travels down between my legs, making its way to my already wet core. When his thumb hooks under the edge of my thong, pulling it aside and his finger enters me, I gasp, writhing over his finger.  

"Oh, shit. So fucking wet, Brie,” he whispers into my ear as he presses me harder against the wall. I hold myself while he unbuttons and pulls down his pants and boxers so that they pool at his feet. "Damn, I need you, babe. Like right now."

He grabs my ass, pulling me down over his erection.  He enters me fully, and I gasp in elation because it's been so long since we've had sex like this.  Since he's grown distant, sex between us has been forced and detached.  Is it because he is cheating?  I wonder if he should use a condom. If he were messing around, would he suggest using one? I don't care. I don't care.  Don’t think about it. I need him. I need James now.

We become frantic. I pull down his head toward mine and kiss him, letting the rhythm of his thrusts set the pace. Everything accelerates and intensifies our breathing, his thrusts, and my moans. I feel my walls clench around him with each thrust, clinging to him like my life depends on it, for what I know are only several delirious minutes, but I want it to be forever. He plunges both fast and slow so I can feel every inch of him, and he can feel all of me before we come together.

Breathing heavily with my arms still around him and my legs wrapped around his waist, we look at each other and smile, and all the fear and uncertainty I sensed in me before dissipates.

"That's what you and black lacy things do to me."

"Thanks for the reminder." I sigh softly, tugging at his hair.

 

 

About the author:   

 Antoinette Candela was born and raised in Upstate New York and is an avid New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys fan. She moved to Boston in her twenties and attended Northeastern University to study Business Management. As a child, she enjoyed reading and writing and penned her first story at the age of thirteen. She has always had a vivid imagination and finally decided to put her thoughts and musings down on paper.

Breaking Elle and Wanting Reed are her first self-published works with many more to come.
A few other interesting facts about Antoinette include: she is of Italian decent, has three brothers, was a tomboy growing up, plays the clarinet and dabbles with the piano. When she's not planted in front of her computer writing, she can be found at the gym, running her kids around Boston, or at the beach soaking up the rays and enjoying a good book.

 

 

Author Links: 

 

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/pages/Antoinette-Candela-Author/338524812920607

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/villelli4592

Amazon Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Antoinette-Candela/e/B00F3LN2JM/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1408334603&sr=1-1 

Website: http://antoinettemcandela.blogspot.com/

Author Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7057370.Antoinette_Candela

 

 

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BOUND TO YOU - Cover Reveal

 Title: Bound To You

Author: Vanessa Booke

 

Synopsis: 

Arrogant, brooding, domineering, possessive, dangerously handsome, and a playboy. These are all the characteristics on Rebecca Gellar’s Run-Like-Hell list for men, but she’s about to meet a man who’s the epitome of these and more… 

After breaking off her engagement with Hollywood actor Miles Storm, Rebecca is ready for a change of scenery in her life and in her bed. So when the opportunity to work for StoneHaven Publishing, one of New York City’s most respectable publishing empires, presents itself, Rebecca doesn’t hesitate moving to the Big Apple. 

Convinced she can show the owner of StoneHaven Publishing that she has the ‘right stuff,’ Rebecca agrees to asix-month trial as the personal assistant to the owner’s playboy son, Nicholas StoneHaven. This is her big chance. If she can just get through these six months without strangling Nicholas with his Armani tie, she'll be okay—easier said than done. Nicholas is the last person Rebecca thought she’d find herself pining for, especially when he hits every category on her list. 

Get ready for a battle of the sexes…

Author Bio:

Vanessa Booke is a lover of poetry, Rom-Coms, the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and all things Jane Austen. She is an avid reader and graduate from Cal State University, San Bernardino where she received her Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Vanessa lives in beautiful Southern California with her husband Ryan and their three dachshunds Zer0, Zoey, and Zelda. When she isn't working on her novels, Vanessa spends most of her time window shopping and taking grand adventures with her partner in crime.

Purchase links:

B&N: http://goo.gl/gP6Pud

Amazon: http://goo.gl/xbJXFT

Kobo: Coming soon.

iBooks: Coming soon.

SINFUL ANTHOLOGY - Cover Reveal

Today we’re revealing the cover for Sinful, An After Dark Entertainment Anthology. Sinful is a collaborative effort from some of our favorite best-selling authors! Proceeds from the anthology will be donated to the Voices and Faces Project which is an award-winning documentary initiative created to bring the names, faces and stories of survivors of sexual violence and trafficking to the attention of the public. For more information you can check out their website at http://www.voicesandfaces.org/

Title: Sinful, An After Dark Entertainment Anthology

Genre: New Adult/Erotica

Release Date: October 17th 2014

Cover: Cover Me, Darling

Formatter: Perfectly Publishable

About Sinful

A collection of ten sinful stories by some of your favorite adult entertainment authors. Stay up late and get uncensored After Dark.

Add Sinful on Goodreads

Sinful, An After Dark Anthology includes:

Diary of a Male Maid by Jennifer Foor

Sebastian thinks cleaning houses is fast money while he's in college, but his new clientele expect a lot more than a floor waxing.

Add on Goodreads

http://www.facebook.com/jenniferfoorauthor

Desire by Missy Johnson

I’m a sex worker.

A prostitute. A whore.

Whatever you want to call me, the result is still the same. I sleep with men and I get paid for it. I don’t make excuses for what I do. Until I learn how fragile life can be.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/MissycJohnson

Slade by Victoria Ashley

One sexy male Stripper, one filthy addiction...craving to be broken.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/VictoriaAshleyAuthor1

One Wild Night & Wild Hearts by Magan Vernon

Valerie Wilder doesn't do serious relationships. She also doesn't usually wake up in Vegas next to a male stripper.... A male stripper who happens to be her new husband.

Add One Wild Night on Goodreads

Add Wild Hearts on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Magan-Vernon/215620155165079

Living in Sin by Isabel Lucero

Jace, a Male escort, discovers if living in sin will cost him everything he never knew he wanted.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/authorisabellucero

The Rental by Rebecca Berto

Vee runs into her old friend, Rick—who was never just a friend—and together they reunite in a place called The Rental where they explore their deepest desires ... and face dire consequences if they let their hearts win out.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaBertoAuthor

True Bliss (Bliss #2) by BJ Harvey

A sexy stripper/rookie cop goes to extreme measures to get the girl.

Add on Goodreads

www.facebook.com/bjharveyauthor

How I Became Lotus Raine by Ericka Ashby

Becoming a porn star was never part of the plan. Everyone else knows me as Lucy Rogers, but you can call me Lotus Raine.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorEAshby

Climax by Sexxa Kohl

Sexy virgin stripper sells herself to a hot, mysterious Dominant, in order to pay for her mother’s life saving surgery. Remaining blindfolded each time, her fourteen days as his submissive awakens feelings neither believed possible.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/sexakohl

Stripped From You by Marissa Carmel

Ryan, a swoon worthy surfer, gets caught up in a world of endless nights, infinite women and the name Jack the Stripper. A world, unbeknownst to him, that may just let two severed hearts collide.

Add on Goodreads

https://www.facebook.com/authormarissacarmel

*This anthology contains both full length and short stories. Some cliffhangers.

Cover Reveal Organized by:

www.hollysredhotreviews.com

STAR STRUCK and LOVE STRUCK - Cover Revamp

 Cover Revamp and Re-release

Cover Designer: Kris @ C & K Creations

 

 

Blurb for STAR STRUCK: BOOK ONE

 

I don’t go for bad boys, or rockers. And I don’t believe in love at first sight. 
Until I see Beckett. And things only get worse when I hear him sing. There is no one like him. The problem is that he wants nothing to do with me. And I know I should stay away from him. It’s the smart thing to do. Only when it comes to Beckett I don’t want to do the smart thing. He makes me want to take a risk. I just hope he decides to take a risk on me too.

 

Purchase on Amazon:http://amzn.com/B00DCC6ITU

Blurb for LOVE STRUCK: BOOK TWO

 

Since I was little I've had a list of carefully constructed plans for my life. But when I meet sexy musician Ryker Collins I'm prepared to give it all up just to be with him. Until one single act makes me question his true feelings for me. Now I'm left to wonder if falling for him was a huge mistake. I just hope he can prove to me that it wasn't before it's too late for us. 

This book is part of the STAR STRUCK series, but each book can be read as a stand-alone.

Purchase on Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00F9J8TJG

 

 

 ~*~About the Author~*~

 Amber Garza is the author of the Delaney's Gift Series and many contemporary romance titles, including Star Struck, Tripping Me Up and Break Free. She has had a passion for the written word since she was a child making books out of notebook paper and staples. Her hobbies include reading and singing. Tea and wine are her drinks of choice (not necessarily in that order). She writes while blaring music, and talks about her characters like they're real people. She currently lives in California with her amazing husband, and two hilarious children who provide her with enough material to keep her writing for years. 

Amber loves to connect with her readers. You can visit her at ambergarza.com, or find her on facebook or on twitter @ambermg1.

Always Yours - Release Day Blitz

Title- Always Yours (Always 2) 

Author - Kari March 

Genre - Contemporary Romance 

Cover photo - by Daniel Erny 

Cover design - by K23 Designs 

Release date- Sept 11th 2014 

Synopsis:

Used. That was the only word Cam Greer, the son of a wealthy media mogul, had ever associated with women. When he met Amber Murphy his senior year in high school, he felt like, for once, this girl loved him for him. When she pursued her dreams and left Cam behind, Amber not only crushed Cam's heart, she destroyed his future as well. He was left to start his life over, thinking the only woman that would ever truly love him was gone. Cara Pratt has finally got her life on track. Ten years after watching her father literally walk out of her life, Cara has finally found happiness with a new stepfather and her high school boyfriend, Lance. Everything is going according to her plan, until a pregnancy test comes back positive. Once again, she finds herself watching the man she loves walk out of her life, taking her future along with him. When Cam and Cara spot each other across the bar at Maggie’s Place four years later, neither of them are interested in starting a relationship. They're both a little unsure and completely untrusting. They try to fight the intense immediate attraction, realizing right off, the seriousness of their chemistry, but as hard as they try, they can't.As fate pulls them together, will their mistrust push them apart? As the smoldering embers from their pasts come blazing to the surface, fears are uncovered that neither of them are ready to face. This is Cam and Cara's story and can be read as a standalone. 

Goodreads link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20799372-always-yours 

Buy links:

Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Always-Yours-2-ebook/dp/B00NH3GPE2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=undefined&sr=8-1&keywords=always+yours+by+kari+march

Kobo - http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/always-yours-6

iTunes - https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/always-yours/id917025213?ls=1&mt=11

B&N - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/always-yours-kari-march/1120333899?ean=2940150370746

Excerpt:

Prologue 14 Years Ago.... Cara I woke up to the muffled sound of my mother's panic-stricken cries. I wiped my eyes and swung my legs over the bed as I looked at the clock—1:19am. Lately, this seemed like a regular occurrence. My parents had been fighting a lot lately. I had spent many nights listening to them from the top of the stairs. My mom was always upset when he would come home late from work. They were always arguing about my dad's boss, Rochelle. I never understood why my mom got so upset—Rochelle was Daddy's boss. He had to do what she said if he wanted to keep his job. One way or another, my parents always made up—my dad would say he was sorry and that was that. But something told me tonight was different—my mom never cried like this before. Just then I heard my daddy's voice as it drifted up the stairs and into my bedroom. "Tell her whatever you want to, Maggie. I'm leaving!" I took a deep breath. He sounded angry. Wait! Where was he going? He just got home from another stupid business trip. I never got to spend time with him. He was always working. I couldn't even remember the last time he had been home for more than two days. I missed him like any little girl would miss their father and I think he finally noticed. Before he left on this last trip, he had promised me that this weekend he would make it up to me by spending every day with just me. I was so excited to finally get some daddy-daughter time with him that I counted down the days until he returned. Everything was silent, except the painful sobs of my mother. Quietly, I climbed out of my bed, opened the door and sat down at the top of the stairs so I could hear them better. Between Mommy's sobs, I heard her softly ask, "How could you do this?" I heard Daddy expel a loud sigh. "Christ, Maggie, you think I like doing this? You think I like living a lie?" He paused and it got quiet for a second. "Rochelle is pregnant again." Who cares if she's having a baby? Why did they always fight about her? "I can't keep living like this, Mags." His voice sounded soft and sad. "I have to make a choice and Rochelle and the girls...they need me more right now." The girls? Who was he talking about? "They need you?" Mommy said, her voice turning angry. "What about Cara? She needs you, too!" I put my hands over my ears. Mommy's voice was loud. "I've known about you and Rochelle for years now, but I stayed, for Cara's sake! And now, just because you fucked up again, you're going to run out on her like this—abandon her without even saying goodbye? She deserves more than that from her father!" Daddy, please don't leave me. That's when my tummy started to hurt. Frantically, I ran down the stairs—I wanted to go with him. When I rounded the corner to the living room, I saw my mommy sitting on the floor, her knees pulled into her chest, tears pouring down her face. She looked so sad. My dad was standing by the front door, luggage in hand, as he pushed his fingers through his hair—his face blank. "Daddy, don't leave!" I cried as I flung myself into his arms. The tears started pouring from my eyes. He wrapped his arms around me and held me tight. "I have to, princess. Your mother and I....we...." He sighed. "I have to go." He removed my arms from his waist and turned to the door, opening it slowly. "Take me with you, please, Daddy! I want to go with you!" I begged as I grabbed hold of his leg for dear life. He stopped and knelt down in front of me. "You'll always be my little princess, Cara, but right now you have to stay with Mommy." He wiped the tears from my face. "I need some time with..." "Rochelle?" I choked out. His head fell and he nodded slowly. "I won't get in the way. I promise! I'll be really good! Please, just take me with you, Daddy!" I cried out. "Don't you want me with you?" "Of course I want you with me, princess," he said as he placed his hands on my shoulders. "But I can't take you with me. Now, be a good girl and go back to bed. I'll see you again soon." He kissed my forehead and stood back up. Grabbing his suitcase, he walked out the door. He was really leaving me here. How could he not want me? I was his princess. Before he could shut it I ran after him. "Daddy! No!" I screamed as my sobs took over. "I'm coming with you!" I followed him down the porch stairs and into the dark. When we got to the car, I opened up the passenger door and got in as he placed his bag in the trunk. Just as I was buckling my seat belt, I felt my daddy's strong grip around my arm. "That's enough, Cara!" he yelled, startling me. His tone was cold. It scared me. He yanked me out of the car and shut the door. Pain shot through my arm as he squeezed it. Shaking my shoulders, he continued shouting at me. "Stop acting like a baby! You can't come! Go back inside with Mommy and leave me alone!" His words crushed me. I looked up at him and didn't know who he was—he wasn't my daddy anymore. I could feel it. Rochelle had been slowly taking him away, but now, looking into his unfamiliar eyes, I knew he was completely gone. I sunk down to the ground and pulled my knees into my chest as I rocked back and forth, trying to comfort myself as I watched him get into the car. I looked out into the darkness, staring at the taillights as they disappeared around the corner. I never saw him again. 

 Always Yours Book Trailer http://vimeo.com/105486232 or 

Always Yours by Kari March from A Book Whores Obsession on Vimeo.

Always Yours Playlist Always Yours - Cam and Cara OR 

   

Promise me always (Always 1)

Synopsis:

Blake Bentley had a rough upbringing, never fully believing he was good enough for anything or anyone. After being left with a broken heart by his only girlfriend, Blake swore off relationships for good and turned to the only two things that made him feel sufficient - sex and firefighting. Tessa Collins was brought up in the traditional 'perfect' family - loving parents, great sister, and amazing friends. After falling in love with Jared, her life was perfect - until he betrayed her. She has no idea that his betrayal could end up costing her more than just a shattered heart. Blake and Tessa have been friends since high school. Never wanting to admit their attraction for each other, the two always remained close friends. Now, three years later, Blake and Tessa find themselves being pulled together by a force much greater than friendship. 

Buy links for promise me always:

Amazon - http://amzn.to/1iA5jCw B&N - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/promise-me-always-kari-march/1118598015?ean=2940148191834 

itunes - https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/promise-me-always/id818676997?mt=11 Promise Me Always Trailer http://vimeo.com/85576414 or Promise Me Always by Kari March from SchmexyGirl Book Blog on Vimeo.
Promise Me Always Playlist Promise Me Always - Blake and Tessa or 

 

About the author:

I'm an Amazon bestselling, new adult, contemporary author. I'm a wife, mother of 2 amazing kiddos, photographer and owner at K23 Photography & Design, graphic designer and cover designer at K23 Designs, as well as an avid reader and blogger at A Book Whores Obsession! I have been married since 2004 to the most amazing man ever and together we have two amazing children. I was born in Aurora, CO and still reside their today with my amazing family. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else in the world. I have become accustom to bi-polar weather living here and I absolutely love getting all four seasons (although winters could be a bit shorter.) I have a small obsession with Starbucks and gummy bears! They make the perfect writing snack! Wine helps a lot too especially with the late night writing sessions. I love the summer and everything that goes along with it, camping, swimming, boating, hiking, etc. I love to travel and Disneyland is one of my family's favorite places to visit together. I have a dream of visiting so many places in the world such as Italy, Greece, Australia, Fiji, Bora Bora and New Zealand (just to name a few.) 

Author links website:

http://karimarchauthor.wordpress.com/ Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/karimarchauthor?ref_type=bookmark 

Twitter handle:

@Kmarch23 

Booktropolous:

https://booktropoloussocial.com/index.php?do=/karimarchauthor/ 

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7336531.

Kari_March Newsletter Sign up - http://eepurl.com/2vPvX

New Release - Juice (The O'Malley's #1)

  Three years after the tragic accident that claimed the life of her brother Harry, Cassidy Evans is still struggling. Determined to focus on her career as an artistic consultant in London; when Cassidy lands the commission of a lifetime she has no choice but to dive in head first. There is only one very tall, very beautiful, man-shaped problem. Her attraction to her new client Rory O’Malley is proving impossible to ignore. Cassidy finds herself falling for Rory and for once she allows herself to be carried away by the prospect of true love. Rory seems almost too good to be true. Is he?

As CEO of the exclusive O’Malley resorts, Rory O’Malley frequently travels around the world. His good looks and healthy bank balance have always ensured that he has his pick of beautiful women, but through choice has been celibate for over six months. Whenever Rory is at home in Ireland his family provides more than enough drama to keep him entertained. Rory thinks his life is grand just as it is--until he meets Cassidy. Rory has never met anyone as sweet as Cassidy, both inside and out.

Cassidy is unaware that Rory harbours a secret about her brother’s accident. A secret that could potentially ruin their blossoming love affair. Soon, he is willing to move mountains to love--and protect--her, but should he be protecting her from himself?

Cassidy had vowed never to make the mistake of loving a man again. So, how the hell did she end up in his bed? And how the hell did he end up in her heart? The attraction between them sparkles and sizzles and love winds its grip around them both. But secrets rarely stay hidden and very soon Rory’s secret puts their love in jeopardy. Can Cassidy forgive the worst betrayal she had ever known?

 

Amazon Amazon CA Amazon UK Amazon AU
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May your home always be too small,

To hold all your friends.

Irish proverb.

Walking onto Kirkland lane and heading towards the gallery, Cass noticed a sleek black SUV moving down the street at great speed. As it passed, she saw the little black kitten that had been hanging around the last few days dart suddenly across the road. The black SUV skidded to a grinding halt inches from the kitten. The kitten looked sheepishly at the wheels of the SUV and instead of running away, chose that exact moment to sit down and begin washing itself. A man jumped from the driver’s seat and started to shoo the kitten away with his shoe. Cass heard the kitten yelp as his foot made contact. Oh no, you did not! What the hell!  It was at this stage Cass realised with some trepidation that she was going to get involved, regardless of how stupid it was to approach the vehicle. Ordinarily, Cass left the superhero stuff to her best friend Marie who was more prone to sudden bursts of bravery. But seeing himkick the kitten roughly made her blood boil. What a fuck-knuckle!

Storming over to the car, Cass started to yell at him. If there is one thing she could not abide, it was the mistreatment of those most vulnerable. This jackass was going to hear it one way or the other. 

 “Oi tough guy, what the hell do you think you are doing? You big bully!” Cass picked up the kitten and cradled it gently in her hands.

The short stout man turned around suddenly and stared at her as though she had two heads.

  “Listen lady, I’m in a hurry here!”

 “In a hurry. Really?” she repeated incredulously, jiggling her shoulders in her most ghetto bitch pose.

 “Well maybe if you left earlier, you would get to your destination on time rather than bombing it down the street like you’re driving the flipping bat mobile.”     

  She snorted loudly in his general direction trying to keep the squirming kitten from running away. Ah hello kitty, a bit of cooperation please. I’m saving your arse here!

 Cass kept her eyes trained on the driver as she dropped and picked up the kitten a few times, finally snuggling it in-between her boobs in an effort to keep it still.

  “Poor kitty got a big fright, a big fright! Yes you did. Yes. You. Did. What is that bad man doing? Bad, bad man in a big silly car.” 

The driver stared open mouthed at her, and then dropped his gaze to her breasts which as usual were threatening to pop out of her top. As she rubbed the kitty in-between them, and murmured soft words reassuringly into the black fur. She felt his eyes on her and looked up to meet them. She squinted as she followed his gaze, until it landed on her boobs. The bloody cheek of it!

 “Have I something on belonging to you, Mister?’ she asked raising her eyebrows and jutting her chin out giving him ‘the look.’

  “No. But you certainly seem to be wearing that kitten quite well,” a deep voice drawled from the back of the SUV.

Cass stepped back and craned her neck in an effort to see who was behind the blackened window of the car. She hadn’t even realised the driver of the car had a passenger. The door opened, and she watched mute as a big Italian leather shoe dangled in mid air for a few seconds. The shoe was Promptly followed by a pair of grey suit trousers, a black fitted shirt, a body, and a man. A very-very, tall and very-very hot man!  Holy shit on a stick! 

Cass touched her face quickly to see if there was drool or leftover breakfast on her chin, and tried to stop the usual facial explosion of hot redness that she was cursed with. Epic fail. Having lived in London for a little over eighteen months now, she had seen plenty of good looking men in the city, but this guy…this guy! Towering over a foot above her own petite 5ft 2inches, he was built like a brick shit-house. Black shiny hair, cut long on the top and short at the back and sides flopped down over his right eye. 

As if on cue, he ran his fingers through his hair pushing it back. Cass gaped at the movement and darted her eyes back to the kitten. She looked up quickly, glanced to her left and right and wondered if she was being set up for a hidden camera show. Gorgeous, sexy, attractive, all the adjectives in the world seemed too paltry to describe him. She looked up at his face and took note of the sharpness of his cheekbones, the stubble, the wide set eyes and  strong jaw-line. She was surprised by the intensity of her attraction him. Her body was reacting to their closeness, and she didn’t appreciate it one little bit. He was staring at her. Why are you staring? The driver scurried back to the taller man and looked up at him with a lapdog expression on his face. His ridiculous chauffeur’s hat was too big and it kept dropping down over his eyes. Cass felt a giggle threatening to burst from her throat, and bit her top lip between her teeth. The driver spoke in a hushed whisper to the tall man. Cass assumed he was an important client and pursed her lips.

 “Apologies, Sir. I’ll have this taken care of in a moment. Listen, girl…. You-”

“Don’t you patronise me, Sir.” Cass fumbled with the daft kitten, and tried to put her hand on her hips while holding it. She watched as the sexgod smiled behind his hand, then rubbed his stubbled jaw and began to whistle softly between his teeth.

 And then he looked at her. He stared straight into her eyes, cocked his head to one side and suddenly held his hands up in mock submission.

 Cass raised one eyebrow at him.  Yeah big boy, you’re hilarious.

“Please accept my most sincere apologies, Miss?”

 He put out his hand for her to shake and ran the other one through his hair again, tossing it. Bloody hell! Thought Cass.

 “Evans. My name is Cassidy Evans.” Cass made no attempt to take his outstretched hand, and instead made a ‘tutting’ noise as loudly as she could and shook her head.

 Irish. He’d have to be. Typical! Hot and with a ‘fuck me’ accent to boot. Accents are the devil. Every girl knows that the right accent can guarantee that a man will get his leg over. Every. Damn. Time.

Cass felt a bitchy sense of self-satisfaction as his eyes widened in surprise when she left his hand hanging limply in mid-air. He adjusted his facial expression quickly to a cool and disinterested mask. Obviously not used to being rebuffed, Cass thought. Well, there ya go Mister sexy arse. Cass congratulated herself for taking one for the feminist movement. It didn’t feel too much like a win, admittedly.

 She failed miserably at trying to hide her inner evil smirk and it was proving impossible to keep the giddiness from her face.

“Miss Evans, please accept my apology. My driver should not have been so quick to remove the kitten without checking first, to see if it was okay.”

 The driver looked at Cassidy and then glanced back to his boss. He lifted his shoulders and dropped his eyes looking surprised. He looked as though he was about to argue, until sexy put his hand up in front of his face and muttered ‘Shush.’

  Denied. A bit of Cass wanted to high five sexgod for cutting off the little twerp. Sexgod looked at his driver and spoke sternly. “I think an apology is in order, don’t you.”

 “Am. Yes-” the driver stuttered. “Yes of course, is the kitten okay Miss-”

  “Cassidy Evans. Miss Cassidy Evans,” said the sexgod in an exasperated tone, never taking his eyes from Cass.

 “Yes. Apologies Miss Evans. The kitten, is it all right?”

Cass sniffed and looked down her nose at the kitty kicker. She held up the kitten and made a performance out of inspecting her paws and ears  “Why yes, I believe she is, Duffy is just fine now, just a little shook up. Thank you for your concern.”

  “Duffy?” queried the sexgod. He moved closer to her side and touched Duffy, tickling her ears.  Holy shit! He smells really good.

  His leg came to rest against Cass’ thigh, and she felt the muscles of her leg begin to quiver. Their eyes clashed and held each other until she was forced to look away from him.

 “It is your Kitten then, Cassidy?”

  He bent his head to one side and raised his perfect black brows at Cass, before smiling at her with straight white teeth. Bet an orthodontist had a field day with those choppers. Damn good work, damn good.

“Officially, no. But, she has been hanging around for the last two days and I have been feeding her. So I guess she has kind of adopted me.”

“How do you know her name is Duffy then?”

“Because she told me.”

“She what?” He stopped mid rub and frowned at her.

Cass was enjoying this far too much.

 “I’m kidding, relax! I just think she looks like a Duffy, don’t you think, yeah definitely a Duffy?”

  He looked at her as though she were a confusing puzzle.

“What is a Duffy?  I suppose she could be a Duffy,” he said rubbing the kitten under its chin. Duffy purred. Cass nearly groaned aloud. Were all females instinctively drawn to him? Probably. No doubt this man had pussys of all kinds at his beck and call.

He scrunched up his forehead and spoke to her with his face animated and curious. “Hang on, are you telling me you named this kitten in the last 30 seconds?”

“Everyone deserves a name, and I think it suits her,” said Cass furiously trying not to look at the him and failing miserably. Her eyes wouldn’t stop drinking him in and her imagination was in overdrive. Cass and sexgod holding hands, Cass and sexgod hugging. Hmm. Cass and sexgod in bed, fucking. Stop this immediately!

 “Oh..kay. Speaking of names, mine is Rory.” He put out his hand again, and this time Cass offered her shaking right hand slowly in return. As their fingers touched, Cass felt the electricity travel from her hand to her gut. Jumping back she frowned at him. Well that was new! Jesus did that actually happen in real life? Rory held her hand a moment longer than was necessary and she looked down at their hands still entwined. Eyeing the long brown fingers and wide hands, Cass wondered how hands could be considered sexy?

 “Rory…R..o..r..yyyyy.” She sounded it on her tongue. It sounded sexy, felt sexy. Rory coughed lightly and cleared his throat, Cass blushed to her roots realising that she had spoken aloud. Her nipples strained behind the fabric of her tee shirt, and between her legs suddenly felt electrified too. Cass clamped her legs together paranoid that it was visible in some way, and let an ‘oooh’ noise escape from her stupid betraying lips.

 Rory’s eyes widened and he parted his lips slightly.

Caught by the bollocks! Act normal for heavens sake, Cass! 

 “Rory, like from The G…Gilmore girls?” she stammered.

 He frowned then, as though she were speaking in tongues.

 “What or who is a Gilmore Girl?” When he frowned, little creases appeared on his forehead. Cute.

 “The TV show? The girl’s name is Rory. The daughter on the show. Lorelai's daughter?” 

Oh ye Gawds, this is going nowhere, fast. She was consciously aware that she was babbling and the more she tried to stop, the worse it got.

“Never heard of it,” he clipped. “Rory is an Irish boys’ name.”

“Oh, yes. Yes I know. It’s a nice name, and it’s a good show too. The Gilmore Girls, I mean.”

He nodded slowly at her. “I’ll check it out.” 

He was so not going to check it out. She nearly groaned at the mortification of it all. 

“Right,” she muttered, fidgeting.

“Cassidy is an unusual first name.”

“Yeah, I suppose. Most people call me Cass,” she shrugged.

“Pretty.”

“Huh?” She looked at him scrunching up her face. He thinks I’m pretty?

“I said your name is pretty, Cassidy. It suits you.”

“Oh…oh thanks. I’m an idiot! It was my great grandmothers maiden name, she was Irish too.”

“So we have something in common then.”

He smiled then, a big broad smile. Somewhere inside her, she envisaged her ovaries exploding and groaned internally.

“And where are you from, Cassidy? Your accent doesn’t sound like you’re from London.”

“Devon, I grew up in a small village called Ashworth.”

“Really? Nice part of the country, I’m told. And what brought you to London, Cassidy? Were you looking for something a bit more exciting than Devon?”

The way he said her name had the hairs standing on the back of her neck. His voice was gruff and deep. He had moved in closer to her. Too damn close. She had to lift her head back to meet his eyes, and could feel the hardness of his chest against her shoulder as he continued to rub Duffy’s body. Trying not to focus on the movement of his hand rubbing along the cats back, was an exercise in futility. Her breath was coming out hitched and nervous and the smell of him was intoxicating making her feel exposed, vulnerable.

“I came to London two and a half years ago to set up an art gallery with my friend 

Marie and we’ve have been here ever since. I run ‘The Muse’ gallery just off Brampton Street.  Just around the corner actually.”

Cass pointed in the general area behind him not taking her eyes from his face.

“Good for you, I might drop in for a look.” Yeah right, I won’t hold my breath.

“Cool. Anyway, I have to go, I have an appointment. It was lovely to meet you Mister…umm. Rory.” 

She took a step back from him.

He looked as though he wanted to continue the conversation, but Cass didn’t give him the chance. He was unsettling her, just by being so close. The artist in her kept imaging him naked, and spread out in front of her in all sorts of disgustingly elaborate, filthy poses. Gawd, I really need to get laid! Although, she had survived well this long without a man. Well, apart from the buzzing variety. A girl’s got needs!

And he smelled so good, like expensive cologne and lemon soap. Her eyes were wandering all over him, his crisp white shirt open at the neck revealed a smattering of  dark chest hair underneath. Very distracting indeed!

Cass realised that she hadn’t in fact moved at all, she was just standing there in the same position ogling him. Something she suspected he was fairly familiar with. Giving him a ridiculous half nod, half Japanese bow and an embarrassed smile she stalked off towards the gallery, kitten in hand. She cringed and mouthed ‘no no no no,' the entire journey to the other side of the road. She turned around and waved quickly, then groaned when she saw the two men still staring after her. 

Michelle McLoughney was raised and still lives in the south west of Ireland, where she runs a Montessori school. An award winning poet, she began writing her first adult romance over a year ago. Being a lover of all things romantic, Michelle just loves a happy ever after. She likes to write strong but loving male leads, and their feisty and funny love interests. When she is not busy daydreaming, plotting or having conversations with her characters; she likes to indulge her addiction to Netflix, usually accompanied by chocolate and wine.

I really hope readers enjoy my debut novel ‘Juice.’ It is the first book of the O’Malley family series, book 2 is due out in January 2015. Please feel free to drop me an email or contact me on Facebook. I would love to hear your thoughts.

 

  

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