Hi everyone! I completely forgot to upload chapter 7.

Here it is. 🙂

Sophia and Layla returned to their apartment with an armload of shopping bags.

“Do you feel a little better?” Layla asked.

“I do; shopping does make you feel better.”

“See, I told you.” Layla said and smiled.

“I want to leave at 9 to the club, because I’m not paying for any cover fees.” Sophia said.

“Why are you telling me that? You’re the one who usually take forever to leave. Tell yourself that.” Layla replied.

“Whatever.” Sophia said while laughing.

She went to her room when her phone started ringing in her purse. She trying to get to it when it stopped and a beeping noise went off. She finally found it at the bottom of her purse, seeing the person left a voicemail. Once she answered it, she rolled her eyes at the sound of James’ voice.

“Hey, Sophia. I was calling to say hi and ask if you were going to Liquid tonight? I thought maybe we could meet up and have a dance or two. Hit me up when you get this.”

Sophia disconnected the call and sat on her bed. She looked at the picture of her and Patrick on her nightstand and sighed.

“What should I do about everything? What should I do…?”

May 22, 2013

Sophia was sitting on the couch watching television. It has been a week after the incident with Patrick and Natalie and she has been miserable ever since.

“I lost my boyfriend and best friend all in one week. How pathetic.”

The doorbell rang and she went to the door. She looked through the peephole and sighed.

“What does James want?” she asked. She opened the door to see James smiling.

“What do you want?”

“Hello to you too, Sophia. I can’t come by and visit you?”

“I told you not to come by anymore.”

“I know, but I had to see how you were holding up. I heard about you and Patrick.”

“Cassandra blabs her mouth again. When can that girl ever shut up?”

“She’s just concerned about you, just like I am. Patrick is a jerk for what he did.”

“How nice for you to say that. Wasn’t it a few months ago we were having this exact conversation about lying and cheating?”

“I told you what happened between us.”

“Save it, James. I heard enough bull to last me a lifetime. Now, can you please leave.”

“Not until I finish what I have to say. Sophia, I just want to say that if you need someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on, then I’m here, okay.”

Sophia was speechless to what James just said. She began to cry and James hugged her.

“Ah, Sophia. I didn’t mean to make you cry.”

Sophia pulled away from James and went to the kitchen to get a paper towel. She walked back into the living room to see him sitting down on the couch.

“It wasn’t you. The past few weeks has been so emotional. At first, I was so happy and now, I’m miserable. I love Patrick so much, so I don’t know what to believe. Why would Natalie do this to me? If Patrick is telling the truth, why would Natalie break us up?”

“Maybe because she wants Patrick for herself. It doesn’t take a genius to figure that out, Sophia. I think your best friend just played you.”

Sophia stopped crying and stared at James. “You know something, do you? If you do, please tell me.”

“I think I should go.” James said and got up.

“Nah, wait James. Tell me what’s going on.”

James looked towards the window and sighed. He looked at Sophia and took her hands.

“I heard some things from Cassandra and Terrance yesterday. It was a trick. Natalie wanted Patrick for awhile now and she was finding ways to break you two up. She figured she’ll push your buttons and tell you that she and Patrick slept together. But they never did. It was all a lie.”

Sophia sat down on the couch and put her head in her hands. “I don’t believe this. I wouldn’t had thought both my friends would betray me this way. And Cassandra knew all along? This is unbelievable! So Patrick was telling the truth?”

“Yeah, he was.”

“I shouldn’t had doubted him. Now, I feel stupid.”

“Don’t say that. Anyone would had thought that.”

“Yeah, but I should had trust him.” Sophia said. She got up and went towards the window. James went towards her and put his arms around her.

“What are you doing?” Sophia asked.

“I need to tell you something. Sophia, I’m still in love with you.”

“What?”

“I held it in for so long, but I can’t hide it any longer. I love you and I never stopped.”

“Why are you telling me this now? I loved you back when we were together, but I don’t love you now.”

“I understand that, but if you give us another change, maybe we can rekindle what we had.”

“Are you crazy?! I’m not going to do that. I think you’ve overstayed your welcome. You need to leave!”

Patrick was driving to Sophia’s apartment in a daze. He had to find a way to explain to Sophia that nothing happened between him and Natalie.

“She has to hear me out.”

He turned off his car and got out. James noticed Patrick getting out of his car and was coming towards the apartment. He looked at Sophia. He prayed for forgiveness for what he was about to do.

“Did you hear me? I said get out!” Sophia exclaimed. She opened the front door and waited impatiently for James to leave. He slowly walked to the door.

“I’m not leaving until I do this.” He said. He faced Sophia and passionately kissed her. Patrick walked up to the door to see the two kissing. Sophia stared wide-eyed at James and quickly pulled away. She looked over her shoulder to see Patrick staring at her.

“Patrick! How long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough. I see you moved. It hasn’t even been a week yet, Sophia!”

“It’s not what you think! I swear…”

Patrick held up his hand and laughed. “And to think I was coming here to find you upset and sad over what happened between us. Hell, I got the complete opposite.”

“Patrick, man, we didn’t mean for this to occur. It just happened.” James said.

“Shut up, James! You knew exactly what you were doing.”

“Honestly, I didn’t…”

“Don’t talk to me, you fucking asshole! You were waiting for this moment, were you? So you could step in and play like you’re concerned.”

“I am concerned. If you were a real man, you would had told Sophia that you slept with her friend.”

“You stupid muthafucker.”

He punched James in the face, causing him to fall and hit his head on the hard-wood floor.

“What the hell is your problem, Patrick?!” Sophia yelled as she ran to James.

“My nose!” James exclaimed. “You broke my nose, you bitch!”

“I’ll break a lot more if you want. Get up, you wimp!”

“Patrick, please just go. You’ve done enough.”

Patrick looked shock at Sophia. “I don’t believe this. You rather go back to him then try and work things out with us?”

“At this point, yeah I would. You’re acting immature right now, Patrick.”

“Me, immature! What the fuck is going on here?”

“I did want things to work out, but if you’re going to result to violence every time there’s a problem, then you’re no better than James.”

“Fine, be with him, but after today, don’t bother calling me.”

“Fine, because I wasn’t going to anyway. Now, leave!”

Patrick looked at Sophia and went to his car. He turned around to see Sophia tending to James.

“I should had done a lot more than a broken nose.” He said.

He jumped into his car and started up the engine. He sped out of the parking lot.

Sophia watched James leave and sighed. She turned around and looked at James, who was still clutching his nose.

“I need to go to the hospital.” He whined.

“Patrick’s right. You are a wimp…”

Sophia went to her closet to put her new outfits onto hangers. She looked at her jewelry box and noticed some souvenirs she kept from her date with Patrick. She took out a movie ticket stub and looked at it.

“This was the first movie we saw together,” she said. She looked at the picture of her and Patrick and smiled.

“Tonight, I’m going to get you back, Patrick. And no one will ever come between us again.”

“It’s about time!” Layla shouted from her room.

Sophia laughed.

By tonight, Patrick and I will be back together again.

***

After Cassandra and Natalie finally left Foot Locker, Patrick decided to go home. As he walked into his apartment, he felt even more miserable than when he left. Aiden walked into the living room and smiled.

“At least you went out. Where did you go?”

“To the mall. It didn’t help, though. I ran into Sophia.”

“Did you two talk?”

“We did, but got into a huge argument. I don’t know what else to do. I’ve tried everything, but nothing’s working.”

“Give Sophia some time. She’ll come around. But for now, why don’t we go out tonight and have some fun.”

“Sure, whatever. Where are we going?”

“Club Liquid.”

“Nah, man; I’m not going.”

“But it’ll be fun. You get to talk to other women and maybe get your mind off of Sophia for one minute.”

Patrick looked at Aiden and sighed. “Fine, I’ll go, but I’m not staying.”

“Whatever, man; at least you’re going. We’re heading out at 10.” Aiden said while walking to his room.

Patrick got up and walked to his room. When he walked in, he headed straight to his dresser and opened the top drawer. He rummaged through his clothes and found a ring box. He picked it up and opened it, revealing a diamond engagement ring.

“I was going to give this to you, Sophia. Now, I don’t know if we have a chance anymore.”

Aiden walked in and stared at Patrick.

“You were going to proposed? Wow, Patrick that’s a huge step.”

Patrick quickly closed the box and put it back in the drawer. “Yeah, I was. I love her.”

“Well, you know what you have to do, then.”

Patrick looked at Aiden and smiled. “I know, man. And I’m going to do it tonight.”

Happy Monday!! Here is chapter 6 of Love. Enjoy! 🙂

Sophia walked back to Victoria’s Secret in a daze. She couldn’t believe what just happened.

I can’t believe I’d done that. I could have been with Patrick right now if it wasn’t for my stupid pride.

She stood by the front window and waited patiently for Layla to come back.

Why couldn’t things between us be so simple? I love you so much, Patrick. I just hope you know that.

***

Patrick walked into Foot Locker still in shock over what happened between him and Sophia. One minute, they were on the verge of getting back together, and the next, they’re over for real.

While he was looking at some shoes, he suddenly looked up to see Natalie and Cassandra walking in. He quickly turned the other way so they couldn’t see him.

I can’t let them see me.

He went behind a rack of hats and pretended to glance over them. He looked in their direction as they had his back to him, looking over some sneakers.

Natalie’s the reason why Sophia and I broke up.

May 2, 2013

Patrick walked into the student center and sat by the window. He started to take out his books from his backpack when Natalie walked by. She gave him a flirtatious smile which made him a bit uncomfortable.

“Hey, Patrick.”

“Hey, Natalie. What’s up?”

“Nothing. Do you mind if I sit down?”

“Go ahead.”

She sat beside Patrick and smiled. “So, how’s everything going?”

“Everything’s fine. I would talk, Natalie, but I have a test to study for. If you have anything to say, go ahead and say it.”

Natalie cleared her throat before speaking. “Okay. I just wanted to say that it’s great that you and Sophia are together. Since she has been with you, she has been a completely different person. She’s happier and carefree. I even seen her glowing ever now and then. Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it.”

Patrick smiled. “I’m glad that you’re happy for your friend. It’s good that you’re supporting her.”

“Of course. That’s what friends are for.” She replied while giving a fake smile.

She stared at Patrick while placing a hand on his arm. She slowly began massaging it, causing him to move away.

“What are you doing, Natalie?”

“Can I ask you a question? Why didn’t we give our relationship a chance?”

Patrick gave a weak laugh. He didn’t know what to say to that. “What do you mean? We were never together.”

“We could have if…”

“Let me stop you right there. In fact, I’m going to leave.”

“Why? Are you afraid to admit something, Patrick?” Natalie asked. She caressed her leg against Patrick’s, while giving him a sexy smile. Patrick grabbed her leg and quickly moved it from him.

“Stop it! What is your problem?! You just said you’re happy for Sophia and now you want me for yourself? What type of friend are you?”

“If it wasn’t for me, you two wouldn’t be together; you should be thanking me instead of jumping down my throat. Besides, I wanted you ever since I laid eyes on you at work, so seeing you two together kind of makes me a little jealous.”

“Is that so? Then why in the hell did you fix me with Sophia if you had feelings for me?”

Natalie leaned back in her chair and smirked.

“Yes, you did introduce us, which I will always be grateful for, but you didn’t put us together. We developed a relationship together all on our own, so get off your damn pedestal because I’m not giving you any praise. For that, stay the hell away from me.”

He got up, but Natalie grabbed his hand. “You want me; I can see it in your eyes. You probably want to take me on this table right now.”

Patrick laughed and jerked his hand away. “Get over yourself, Natalie.”

He walked away from her and went towards the exit. Natalie turned around and smiled.

“He’s playing hard to get. I like that…”

Patrick looked back over at Natalie and Cassandra. They were moving towards the sandals wall.

Please don’t come any closer.

He continued to stare at the hats one more time, waiting for the two to leave.

May 15, 2013

“What did you want to do tonight?” Patrick asked Sophia. The two walked into Sophia’s apartment after an afternoon of classes. Patrick sat down on the couch while Sophia went into the kitchen.

“I don’t know. I guess we could go to the movies.”

“I heard there’s a good movie coming out this week. What time did you want to go?”

Sophia walked to Patrick with two cans of sodas.

“It could be a late movie. Layla is staying at her mom’s tonight to help with her sister’s baby, so I have the entire place to myself.”

Patrick smiled. “Are you asking me to spend the night?”

“If you want. But if you do, don’t count on getting any sleep.”

Patrick pulled Sophia to him and touched her cheek. “I’ll hold you to that.”

Sophia smiled and kissed him. They continued kissing when the doorbell rang.

“I wonder who that is,” Sophia said while getting up.

She went to the door and opened it. Natalie was standing on the other end with a huge grin.

“Hey, girl. I just came by to see how you were since I haven’t seen you in awhile.”

“As you can see, I’m doing fine. Patrick and I was about to head out, so you can come back by tomorrow.”

Natalie walked in and looked at Sophia. “It looks to me that you two weren’t leaving just yet, so I can stay for few minutes.”

Before Sophia could say anything else, Natalie barged past Sophia and went into the living room.

Sophia gave Natalie a heated look before closing the door.

“What are your plans for tonight?” she asked while sitting down.

“Why are you here, Natalie?” Patrick asked angrily.

“Hello to you too, Patrick. It’s nice to see you. And I wasn’t talking to you.”

Patrick rolled his eyes and picked up the television remote.

Sophia looked at the two strangely before sitting down beside Patrick. “We were going to the movies. Listen, why don’t I call you tomorrow and we can all do something. Right now, we have somewhere we need to be.” Sophia said while getting up.

“Fine, I’ll go.” Natalie said and got up.

Sophia went to the door and opened it. Before leaving, Natalie glanced at Sophia. “I forgot; Cassandra told me to ask you about a movie or cd that you borrowed from her. She wants it back.”

“She really needs it now?” Patrick asked impatiently.

“Yes, she does.” Natalie sarcastically replied.

“I’ll go look for it. I’ll be right back.” Sophia said She walked over to Patrick and hit him on his shoulder.

“What was that for?” he asked.

“Why are you acting like that? Be nice.” Sophia whispered.

Patrick gave Sophia a smirk and continued watching TV. Natalie walked over to the couch and sat down besides Patrick.

“What are you trying to pull, Natalie?” Patrick asked.

“Nothing. Why are you acting like this, Patrick? Are you afraid to be around me, because you don’t know what could happen between us?”

Patrick started to laugh. “Please, girl. Even if I wasn’t with Sophia, you wouldn’t be someone I would want; so I suggest you step off.”

Natalie got closer to Patrick and began touching his chest. “You know you want me. I can see it in your eyes.”

“Get the hell away from me.”

“Or what?”

“I suggest you move, now!”

“And what are you going to do about it?” Natalie challenged. She reached over and roughly kissed him. Patrick tried to push himself from Natalie, but she held him tighter. He finally managed to pull away from her, just as soon as Sophia came back in the living room.

“What the hell is going on?! Natalie, what are you doing?!”

“It’s not what it looks like.” Patrick said as he moved from the couch.

“I’m not blind, Patrick! You two were kissing!”

Natalie got up and went to Sophia. She tried to touch her hand, but Sophia pulled away.

“Patrick and I have had feelings for each other before you two met. I guess they resurfaced when you two got together.”

“What are you talking about? You two were never together.”

Natalie gave Patrick a sly grin before staring at Sophia. “Patrick didn’t tell what happened between us after work one night?”

“What the hell are you doing, Natalie? We were never together and you know it!” Patrick fumed.

“I guess you denying what happened. I went back to your place and we had sex, Patrick. After you got what you wanted from me, you went for my friend.”

“Oh my God!” Patrick exclaimed. He started laughing.

“I don’t see anything funny, Patrick!” Sophia yelled.

“Because it’s not true! I never slept with Natalie. I told you that. I told you everything about us. We were co-workers; that’s all!”

“That’s not true.” Natalie whispered.

“We had a few conversations on the phone, but that as far as it went. Natalie was with Thomas and I was with someone at the time, so that’s why we didn’t pursue anything. Baby, you must believe me. Why would I stand here and lie to you?”

Sophia looked at the two and shook her head. “Right now, I don’t know who to believe. All of this time you two have been around me and you both were lying in my face.”

“Nothing happened!” Patrick yelled.

“How do I know! I wasn’t with you at the time.” Sophia said to Patrick. She looked at Natalie as tears were streaming down her cheeks. “And you; how in the hell could you come up in my place and do this to me?”

“I’m sorry, Sophia, but you had to know the truth.”

“Oh please, Natalie! You’re not sorry one bit. You did this on purpose. For all I know you probably wanted Patrick all along. If you did, then why go through the trouble of putting us together?  So you could see me break down when this bombshell came out? Some friend you are.”

“I didn’t mean to hurt you. Really, I didn’t.”

“Get out!” Sophia screamed.

Sophia went to the door and opened it. She looked at the two of them while wildly tapping her foot. “Both of you, get out.”

“I’m not leaving. We need to talk.” Patrick said.

“If you don’t leave, I will call the police. Now, get the fuck out!”

Natalie went to the door and looked at Sophia. She was about to say something when Sophia held up her hand. “Don’t say anything to me, bitch.”

“Wait a minute…”

“Get out before I knock the shit out of you!”

Natalie scowled at Sophia and headed towards the parking lot. Patrick walked up to Sophia and sighed.

“I’m sorry this had to happen, but I didn’t do anything wrong. Can’t you see she’s lying to break us up? Do you really think I would sleep with her? Even if I did, I would have told you because you two are friends. She’s lying, Sophia…”

Before Patrick could finish, Sophia slammed the door in his face. The tears were steady flowing as she went to the couch to cry.

“I love you, Sophia!” Patrick yelled through the door. He kicked it several times before yelling again.

“I love you!”

Hi everyone!!! Hope you all are having a wonderful Wednesday! As some of you may know, I decided to re-release some of the series that were under my former publisher. I wanted to be able to have all of my titles either under my publishing company or as an independent release.

Currently, I’m working on the Something Just Ain’t Right series. At first, I was thinking about changing the title back to the original title, Resisting Temptation, but I wanted to keep the current title since it kind of goes with the theme of the series.

Here are the new covers to the series, which I hope to have on Amazon once my former publisher decides to take down their version.

And if you have forgot about the entire series, here’s a refresher:

Part 1:

Morgan Carter always lived life on the edge. He never cared about anything or anyone until he set his sights on Hayley Stevens. Hayley is someone that he has known since they were kids, but it wasn’t until their adult years that he started to notice how beautiful of a woman she really had become. Unfortunately, it’s hard to see her as anything more than his best friend’s sister.

Hayley, on the other hand, had instantly felt a connection with Morgan the moment they met. She knows that she’s playing with fire, especially since her brother doesn’t want him anywhere near her. But, she’s determined to make Morgan hers, even if it destroys the relationship she has with her brother and the life-long friendship between the two.

Once they give in to their desires of being together, they are faced with several issues. Secrets are unveiled as deceit and mayhem follow. Will there be anyone that Morgan and Hayley can run to or will they learn there is nobody around that they can really trust?

Part 2

Hayley Stevens didn’t know what to expect when she started a relationship with Morgan Carter. Everything that she knew about her life has changed and now she’s on the run with the man that she loves. She and Morgan starts a new beginning in another city. However, the move proves to bring on more drama than she can possibly handle. Will she be able to continue supporting Morgan or will it become too much for her?

After everything that has happened with his friend, Lamar, and with his family, Morgan is trying to make a new life for himself and Hayley. He thinks he can stay out of trouble, but he is faced with more obstacles that even he’s not sure he can hide from. Will he be able to maintain his composure or will everything that he worked hard to keep a secret come crashing down around him?

Hayley and Morgan find it hard to hide from their misdeeds while realizing that they still can’t trust those closest to them. With secrets unfolding and the truth coming to light things could end deadly for one them.

Part 3

In the past two months, Morgan Carter and Hayley Stevens has been through a lot, from threats to kidnappings to shootings. The two have dealt with so much. They realize as long as they are together nothing will tear them apart. However, after Hayley’s shooting, Morgan realizes that in order to protect the ones closest to him that he may have to do something drastic which could tear the two apart.

When a series of lies are exposed about the one person he trusted, Morgan has to do what he can to protect not only himself, but also Hayley. Will the two be able to stay together and make things work, or will things crumble around them which could lead to someone not making it out alive?

Find out what happens in Something Just Ain’t Right 3, the final conclusion to this series.

If you are not familiar with the dream cast that I’d created, you can click on the link below to take a look to who I would chose for each character from the series:

https://sheenabinkley.com/2015/03/18/dream-cast-something-just-aint-right-series/

Remember, a novella of the series, Just Right, will be released on August 9th. Pre-order is available now.

No Other Love is another series that is currently under my former publisher. This one will also be re-released soon. Here is the new cover for part 1:

Kevin Thompson always lived life straight by the book. He got a great job, married his college sweetheart, Jennifer and together they’re raising a wonderful son.

Even though Kevin is living the picture perfect life, he’s starting to feel that something is missing. His marriage is slowly falling apart leaving him in a compromising position. To make matters even more complicated, he unexpectedly runs into an old college friend, Carla Windsor. Carla just happens to also be friends with Jennifer.

When secrets are exposed between the three, will it destroy everything Kevin has worked hard for? Or, will he see this as his way out of the life that he once cherished?

I will post more information regarding both re-releases once I’m able to upload the new versions back onto Amazon.

Until then….Happy Reading! 🙂

Hi everyone! I hope you had a wonderful weekend! Here is chapter 5 of Love. Enjoy! 🙂

“Hey,” Sophia softly said.

“Hey. What are you doing at the mall?”

“It is a public place, Patrick.”

“I know that, but why are you here?”

“Layla and I decided to go shopping. We’re going out tonight.”

“Oh, that’s cool. Hey, Layla.” Patrick said while staring at Layla.

“Hey, Patrick. I’ll be right back. I have something to take care of. I’ll meet you back here later.” Layla said to Sophia.

Sophia gave Layla a worried glance. “What do you have to do?”

“Something important just came up. I’ll meet you back here, okay.” She said quickly.

Before Sophia could say anything else, Layla was going back to the food court. Sophia turned around and smiled at Patrick.

“How have you been?” she asked.

“Okay, I guess. You?”

“The same. Maybe we should just say good bye right now.”

“Maybe we should talk. I think we really need to.”

Sophia sighed. “I don’t know…”

“I’m willing to if you are.”

Sophia slowly nodded and the two started to walk away from Victoria’s Secret and into the crowd of shoppers.

“I’ve been thinking a lot about us.” Patrick started.

“What have you been thinking about?” Sophia asked.

“How we met, and our first date.”

Sophia smiled. “I’m still embarrassed about me throwing up on you.”

Patrick laughed. “That was ages ago, girl. That’s all forgiven; in fact, it was pretty funny.”

Sophia chuckled. “I guess you’re right. I’ve been thinking about us too. I was thinking about the first time we met and our first time together.”

“Really? I was, too. Do you remember when we did it in the mall elevator?”

Sophia blushed. Yeah; that was exciting.”

Patrick gave a sexy stare at Sophia, which made her blush even more. “It definitely was. I remember how nervous you were because you thought we were going to get caught.”

“But I was nervous for long.”

“No, you wasn’t. I miss you, girl. You know that, right?”

Sophia stared ahead at a cart nearby and sighed. Patrick stopped walking and put his hand on Sophia’s shoulder. He took his other hand to pulled Sophia to him.

“I miss you so much, Sophia. Ever since we’d broke up, I couldn’t stop thinking about you. I know you feel the same way. Don’t try and say you don’t because I know you do.”

“I do, Patrick, but that day when we broke up, we both said some things to each other that we can’t take back.”

“I understand that, but who said we can’t start over? Breaking up and making up is part of a being in a relationship.”

“I understand no relationship is perfect, but why would you think that I would do that to you? You know I never would.” Sophia said.

Patrick pulled Sophia away from the crowd and walked over to the bench near the exit. They sat down as they watched several shoppers walk by.

“Baby, I understand that you’re hurting about that and I will keep apologizing for it, but you had doubts about me too.”

“Sweetie, I know we both overreacted, but maybe we should take some time apart. We have been with each other so much we probably don’t even remember who we are individually.”

Patrick got up and faced Sophia. “What are you talking about?! One minute, you’re saying you miss me and wished we were back together, and now you’re saying you want some time apart? Make up your mind, Sophia! Is it James? Do you really want to be with him again?” “No, Patrick; that’s not it.”

“Then tell me what it is?!”

Sophia shook her head. “I can’t say.”

Patrick threw up his hands in frustration. “You know what, give me a call when you get it together.”

He gave Sophia a heated look before walking to the exit.

Sophia watched Patrick leave and put her head in her hands. She didn’t know what just happened, but now she felt as if she had just lost the one opportunity in getting Patrick back…

April 30, 2013

Sophia walked into her apartment breathless. She had just finished working out at the university’s gym and was tired.

She went towards the kitchen and opened the refrigerator to grab a bottled water when the doorbell rang. She put the water down on the counter and went to the door to open it. When she did, she was shocked to see who was on the other side.

“James?”

James Williams was standing at the door wearing a huge grin. He had a dozen of red roses in his hand as he tried to come inside.

“Hi, Sophia. It’s really nice to see you.”

Sophia put her hand out to prevent him from coming in. “What the hell are you doing here? We broke up, remember? Actually, you dumped me last summer.”

“Let me explain about that…”

“I don’t want to hear anything you have to say, James, so please leave.”

“Not until I explain what happened.”

“My boyfriend is coming over in a little bit, so I don’t want him to see you here.”

“I know all about Patrick. Cassandra told me that you two were together.”

“Figures she would. What else did she say?”

“Nothing else; besides, it’s not like I haven’t see you two around campus.”

“If you know I have a man, then why are you bothering me?”

“To get you back. Sophia, I have made a mistake ending things with you. I didn’t realize how much you meant to me until things ended between us.”

“Oh, so it took us to break up for you to realize that we belong together? Too late, James.” Sophia said. She was about to close the door when James blocked it.

“Can I please come in? At least hear me out on why we broke up.”

Sophia sighed and let James in. “Make it quick.”

He smiled and walked in, handing Sophia the roses.
“I can’t accept these.”

“Please do.”

Sophia sighed and took the roses into the kitchen.

“You have five minutes, starting now.” She said in the kitchen.

“Okay; you know during the time that we were together, I was going through some things that had changed my life. Not only was I upset, but also a bit distraught. That was the reason why I stayed away. I became isolated and sort of pushed you away.”

“James, you know you could had talked to me during that time. What you’re telling me is no excuse. That’s what a relationship is; being together through the good and the bad.”

“I’m sorry; after my aunt died, I didn’t know what else to do but to be by myself. She was a special part of me.”

“So spending time with Stacy or whatever her name was eased your pain? You hurt me when you dumped me and then I had to heard from other people that you were seeing someone else a week after we broke up! Were you seeing her while we were together?”

“Would you believe me if I told you no?”

“No, I wouldn’t. To be honest, I really don’t care now about what happened between us. That was in the past. Now, I’m happy with someone who appreciates me now and not after the fact when we’re done.”

James shook his head and sighed. “That’s fine. I just want to come here and say my piece. Since I did, I should go.”

“Good.” Sophia said. She walked over to the door and opened it. James stared at Sophia.

“Before I go, I just want to say that I still want us to be friends and that you can come to me whenever you have a problem or just need someone to talk to. I’m here, okay.”

“Don’t worry; Patrick will be here for that and more.”

James gave Sophia a smirk and went out the door. As soon as he was going to his car, Patrick pulled up to the space beside his. He got out, giving James a strange look.

“What are you doing here?”

James smiled. “Hey to you too, Patrick.” He replied. He jumped into his car and started up the engine. Patrick closed his door and watched James pulled off. He went towards Sophia’s apartment and rang the doorbell. Sophia opened the door and smiled.

“Hey, sweetie.”

“What was your ex doing here? I don’t remember you two being friends?”

“How did you know James was here?”

“I saw him in the parking lot. Now, why was he here?”

“First off, I don’t like your tone. Second, James didn’t mean any harm. He just came by to settle some things. He said his piece and he left. I tried to get him to leave sooner, but he wouldn’t until he said what he had to say. I swear, baby, nothing happened.”

Patrick looked at Sophia. “Baby, I’m sorry I overacted. I’m not mad at you, but seeing him here made me pissed. He’s just showing his face because he sees that you’re happy.”

“And I am that. Don’t let James get to you. He’s a jerk.”

Patrick went up to Sophia and gave her a hug. “Just promise me something.”

“What’s that?”

“I don’t want him coming around here anymore. I don’t trust him.”

Sophia smiled and kissed Patrick. “You’re jealous. I like it.”

“Oh really; what else do you like?”

“I don’t know. Why don’t I show you?” Sophia said. She began to kiss Patrick’s neck, leaving a trail to his chest. He moaned softly before speaking.

“I’m serious baby about James. I don’t trust him, so you should keep your distance from him.”

Sophia glanced at Patrick and smiled. “I promise, sweetie. I don’t think James will be coming back anyway.”

Patrick looked at Sophia and took her hand. “Okay, now that’s settle, what you wanted to show me?”

Sophia gave Patrick a sexy smile while taking his hand. The two went into Sophia bedroom and she closed the door.

Release Blitz

Title: Whispered Prayers of a girl

Author: Alex Grayson

Cover Designer: Cover Me Darling

Cover Model: BT Urruela

Photog: Kruse Images & Photography

Release Date: July 10, 2017

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A tortured soul meets a damaged family…

A lonely man, a widowed woman, a carefree boy, and a broken girl… Can the four come together and help heal each other? Or will fear of the unknown and guilt about the past keep them apart?

Her whispered prayers break her…

At night, as she’s drifting off to sleep, I press my ear to the door and listen to her heart-wrenching pleas. Her words are agony to my healing heart, but I cherish the sound of them, for that’s the only time I ever hear my beautiful daughter speak. Since her father died two years ago, she’s grown quiet and withdrawn. Cat’s Valley was to be our new beginning, a place where my family and I can heal, but what we find there is so much more.

Scars mar his body. Pain has left him in pieces…

Four years ago, I lost the two things I cherished most in the world. They were ripped from my arms in the most painful and cruel way. Since then, I’ve kept to myself, preferring to stay away from the pitying looks and murmured rumors. Everything changed when she and her children barged into my life. It was an accident, and I don’t deserve them, but now that they’re here, I’m not sure I can let them go.

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JUST LIKE LAST NIGHT, I walk silently down the hallway until I make out the murmured whispers from a girl begging God to bring her father back. I gently lay my hand on the door and listen as she slowly melts my heart until it’s a puddle at my feet. My chest aches with the need to walk in there and take away her pain. I’ve never heard such tortured words before. The pain that comes from them is overwhelming and unbearable. Even my own immense pain from losing the ones I loved can’t compare to this. This girl’s pain is so much more.

My head falls forward, and I pull in a deep breath to steady my heartbeat. It’s been quiet for several moments, and I know she’s finished. I let my hand fall from the door, and I walk down the hallway back to the living room. I drop to the cushion and let my head fall in my hands.

They’re leaving tomorrow. The sun is coming out and the temperatures are supposed to be in the lower fifties, much higher than it’s been in days. The snow won’t melt in one day, but it’ll be enough to let the road crew get to the fallen tree and her truck. My call earlier tonight to Travis confirmed they’ll be working on the roads tomorrow.

I’m not ready. It’s unreasonable and irrational, but I don’t want them to leave yet. I’m not ready to give up Daniel’s buoyant behavior or Kelsey’s quiet and depressed mannerisms. I’m not ready to give up Gwen’s giving and resilient personality. I want to keep them here. With me. They’ve brought so much light into my life since they’ve been here, and I want to keep it for a while longer. Which means they need to leave as soon as possible, before my dark world rubs off on them. I want to be selfish and harbor that light, but I won’t.

What hurts the most was the dejected look on Daniel’s face when Gwen informed him and Kelsey they’ll be leaving tomorrow. What surprised me was the morose look on Kelsey’s. That girl and her sad eyes have me wrapped around her little finger. And the boy…. Everyone should have a Daniel in their lives. Gwen tried cheering the two up with promised visits to all their friends once the roads were clear enough for it, but I could tell it didn’t work. I could also tell it wasn’t working for Gwen herself. She tried to hide it, I’m not sure if it was just from the kids or from me too, but I know she doesn’t want to leave either. The four of us, in a matter of days, have become close, formed a bond of a sort. And that right there is another reason they need to leave. I can’t let that continue. It’s not something I deserve. It’s something they need to form with a man who’s worthy. A man who will be there for them always. A whole man, not one who’s only half of himself.

I give my hair one good pull, letting the pain push away the unwanted feelings, before releasing it with a muted growl. I’m pissed at myself for wanting something I shouldn’t. This family is too good for me. I couldn’t even protect my own when they needed me. How could this family be any different? I refuse to take that chance.

I lie back against the cushion and force thoughts of Gwen and her two kids away, and instead let my own demons take over. Closing my eyes, I let the screams of pain and fear flood my mind, reminding me why Gwen, Kelsey, and Daniel are better off without me in their lives.

Alex Grayson is the bestselling author of heart pounding, emotionally gripping contemporary romance including the Jaded Series, the Consumed Series, and two standalone novels. Her passion for books was reignited by a gift from her sister-in-law. After spending several years as a devoted reader and blogger, Alex decided to write and independently publish her first novel in 2014 (an endeavor that took a little longer than expected). The rest, as they say, is history.

Originally a southern girl, Alex now lives in Ohio with her husband, two children, two cats and dog. She loves the color blue, homemade lasagna, casually browsing real estate, and interacting with her readers. Visit her website, www.alexgraysonbooks.com, or find her on social media!

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