Anna's Strength:Choosing Love Series Book 2

By E Kelly

Interior designer, Anna Davis has spent three years developing her career. When she is hired by Vincent Lane and his fiancé Bronwyn to redesign their new bookstore, Anna sees this as an opportunity to catapult her career from obscurity into distinction. The last thing Anna needs or wants right now is a man. And Daniel Spears, a friend who is helping Vincent with security for the store, is most definitely a man. One built for long hot nights and seduction. Unfortunately, even though Anna is undeniably attracted to Daniel, she isn’t interested in accidental sex or casual intimate arrangements. Determined not to lose her, Daniel formulates a plan to ensure that he is never far from Anna’s mind... or her body. He’s not going to let anything stand between them, not ex-lovers, intruders, thieves, or even Anna herself. Daniel has waited an entire lifetime to find her and now that he has, he’s never letting go.

• Language: English
• Publisher: E Kelly
• Release date: Dec 21, 2011
• ISBN: 9781466064089

E Kelly

E Kelly lives in Eastern Maryland with her husband, amazing daughter, and the weirdest dog on the planet. She is an avid reader and writer. She is currently at work on her newest series. You can contact Ms. Kelly as well as check out her latest releases at: http://writerekelly.com/.

Book preview

Anna's Strength

E Kelly

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2011 E Kelly

This book is available in print at most online retailers.

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

To Kathy Miller - the one who keeps me fighting, moving, and laughing. This one's for you.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Epilogue

About the Author

Chapter 1

As she parked in the makeshift lot, Anna Davis took a minute to study the building in front of her. It was massive. Two stories, with white trimmed gables, a balcony, and a wraparound porch. She knew it had been many things in its lifetime: a school, an orphanage, a bed and breakfast, and even a private home. Now the new owners had something else in mind – a bookstore. Well that was just fine with Anna. She always welcomed a new place to feed her addiction. Getting out of the car, she took a minute to take in the feel of the place. I bet you were grand once, she whispered. Struggling a little with the porch steps, Anna trailed her hand lovingly along the railing. She looked past the peeling paint, the rotting wood, and the broken windows. Yeah, you’re a beauty alright, she added. Hope I get the chance to help you find your way back. Smoothing her hair and straightening her jacket one last time, she took a deep breath. This was it. This one meeting could catapult her career from obscurity to distinction. With another steadying breath, she raised her fist to knock. Suddenly the door swung open, catching Anna off guard. She gasped when she saw him. She couldn’t help it. Startled and more than a little flustered, she felt trapped by the look in his eyes. He studied her silently. Took in the polished look, the portfolio, and the straightforward look in her eye. The interior designer he realized. Daniel nodded. After the briefest hesitation, she smiled.

Anna Davis, she said as she allowed him to take her hand in his. I have an appointment with Bronwyn Barrister.

Certainly, he murmured as he continued to study her. She was petite, with delicate features. Her hair and eyes dark, her skin pale. The subtle fragrance she wore carried the faint scent of ginger. He was immediately intrigued. Daniel Spears, he finally answered. Family friend.

She nodded, a little more cautiously this time. He was a bit intimidating Anna admitted to herself. Tall, dark, and handsome didn’t begin to do him justice. His shoulder length black hair and dark eyes, in combination with his tanned skin, were evidence of his Native American ancestry. He was at least six feet she guessed, and broad with it. Then there was the way he stood, the way he took in everything about her. She doubted he missed much.

I’m sorry, he was saying now. Please, come in. He gestured her inside and closed the door behind them. Vincent and Bronwyn are around here somewhere. I think I saw them… Daniel's explanation was cut short by the arrival of an elegantly dressed couple.

You must be Ms. Davis, the man was saying. He shook her hand warmly. I’m Vincent Lane. This is my fiancé, Bronwyn Barrister.

Damn, they’re stunning she thought. Vincent with his dark hair and grey eyes. Bronwyn with her long chestnut waves and green eyes. He towered over her tiny frame, but it was strength, not frailty, Anna saw in her eyes. She noticed the way Vincent looked at her. The way he already had his arm around her, tucking her in close to his side. Anna could see that he loved her completely. Adored her. And when Bronwyn turned to look up at him, the love she was feeling reflected in her eyes. Wow, Anna muttered to herself. She envied them that. Smiling again, she took a deep breath and began. So, a bookstore?

Yeah, Bronwyn confirmed. Dénouement. What do you think?

The final act or climax of a story, right? Anna guessed. Bronwyn nodded. I think it’s a fabulous idea. Both the name and the building. A very creative use of the space. I mean, I can just see it now. Can’t you? You could greet people in the foyer. They could meander from room to room. Relaxed, at home. Taking books from the shelves, finding comfortable places to snuggle up and read. Maybe there’s room for a small café too. Then customers could stay awhile. Have a snack. Keep wandering and shopping when they’re done. Anna stopped when she realized they were staring. Wincing, she began to apologize. I'm sorry. I think I got carried away there. Occupational hazard.

Are you kidding me? You were describing the place exactly as I pictured it myself, Bronwyn confessed excitedly. You're hired.

Anna laughed. Thanks for the confidence, but I think you should see some of my work first. Is there a place we can sit, go over my portfolio?

Absolutely. We've set up a table and chairs in here, Bronwyn was saying as they all moved to the next room. It should give us more than enough room.

Great. Anna opened her portfolio, laying it flat on the table for Bronwyn and Vincent to study. It represented the last three years of her professional life. Every kitchen, attic, garage, bedroom, and living room she had ever designed. Why don’t you two take a look? See what you like. What draws you in, she suggested. Anna stepped away to explore the room and give them an opportunity to talk quietly.

Daniel watched her as she moved. Her hands had to touch he noticed. The trim, the window ledge, the ornate carving around the fireplace. She found pleasure here. Her smile soft, almost secretive. Her phone rang as she made her rounds. Daniel watched her check to see that Bronwyn and Vincent were occupied before she answered.

Anna, she said as she caught his eye.

He didn’t turn away even though he understood that he should. Instead, his gaze remained locked on hers as she continued the call. Finally, she angled her head, sending him an inquiring look. Before he could decide if he wanted to respond, Vincent nudged him. Reluctantly, he dropped his gaze and turned toward his friends.

It didn't take long for Anna to finish her call and join them.

Well, at the risk of repeating myself, Bronwyn began. You're hired.

Really? Thank you! She shook their hands excitedly. I was hoping we could work together. I just love this old place.

Yeah. Me too, Bronwyn agreed. Together, they toured the building from top to bottom and discussed the overall design plan, Daniel following quietly in their wake. The top floor would become living space for Vincent and Bronwyn and the bottom would be dedicated retail space. Anna’s job was to focus on the store first, and then they would see about the private spaces. Either way, she felt lucky to have this chance and, of course, she was hoping that once Bronwyn saw her work, she’d feel confident enough to hire her for the upper floor.

They returned to her portfolio, identifying what Bronwyn and Vincent liked as well as what they didn’t. Together they considered colors, shelving, furniture, and lighting; the possibility of tearing walls down, putting others up, moving windows and adding fireplaces. Clearly, their options were limitless. It would be Anna’s job to sift through all their ideas, culling out the ones that would suit both her clients and the space. I can have plans for you to review by the end of the week, she promised.

Excellent, Bronwyn smiled.

Is it okay if I take some pictures and measurements before I go? she asked as they finished.

Whatever you need.

I can help if you like, Daniel volunteered. It was the first time he had spoken since their introduction.

Surprised by his offer, Anna's acceptance was delayed. Um. Sure. Thanks. It took them over an hour to get the information she needed. Together they took her photos and calculated the size and shape of every wall, doorway, and window. Daniel commented on her thoroughness.

I want to be able to map out the entire downstairs for Bronwyn and Vincent. This way they can see how each piece fits into the whole.

Makes sense. What’s the next step after this?

Now I go home and get to work. I have just one week to make a building map that my clients can understand and use. Added to that I need to design a room that is warm and welcoming. A room that encourages people to come in and stay awhile. She put the tape measure, camera, and notes in her bag. It'll be a lot of work, but I can't wait to get started.

You’ll be good for this place and for them. Daniel tilted his head toward his friends. If you can help them rebuild their dream, I’d be grateful.

I assure you, it will be my pleasure just as much as it is theirs, Mr. Spears.

Daniel, he corrected.

Daniel, she nodded. Thanks again for your help. As she turned to go, he surprised them both by reaching out, taking her hand gently in his. He was distracted for a moment by the feel of her skin against his.

It was a pleasure to meet you, he murmured.

Anna smiled. And you.

I look forward to seeing you again, he added.

Anna nodded in response. She waited a full minute before she spoke again. My hand, Daniel.

Slowly, deliberately, he smiled. Anna was stunned by the transformation; fierce warrior to erotic fantasy. He’d be a dangerous man to be involved with, she acknowledged. A born heartbreaker her grandmother would have said. Without comment, she turned to go.

Anna found Daniel’s interest a little unsettling. She was sure he was just being friendly. After all, she was not the kind of woman men noticed. She was more the girl-next-door. One of the guys. Another look at Daniel and she was certain he wouldn't be interested in one of the guys. With his extraordinary looks, he screamed hot, steamy sex; not friendship. Not commitment. He was a man built for seduction, plain and simple. And Anna wasn't interested in seduction. Sex with no heart behind it. She tried to settle for that once before and the results had been disastrous. Bottom line - she sucked at being shallow.

Daniel watched her from the porch as she left. Thought about the hour they had spent together. It was obvious that Anna was clever. He didn’t think she approached the level of Vincent and Bronwyn, but with IQs of 147 and 162 respectfully, not many people did. Still, she was smart. And funny. And kind. When was the last time he met a woman that was actually kind? Sexy? Yes. Aggressive? Yes. But kind? No. And, unlike the women he was used to, she was unaccustomed to the attention of a man. Interesting.

So, what do you think? Vincent was asking.

That depends.

On what?

On whether you’re talking about the renovation ideas or the designer, Daniel explained.

Vincent raised an eyebrow in surprise. Both, he decided.

The renovation ideas sound exactly right. You managed to find someone who understands and agrees with your vision for the place. I think she’ll be an asset to the project.

And the woman herself? Vincent wondered.

Now that’s another story all together. Being a man of few words Daniel thought it through before he spoke. I’m not sure yet. I guess you could say I find her… captivating.

Vincent nodded thoughtfully. Captivating could be an excellent place to start.

Yeah, Daniel smiled. That’s just what I was thinking.

Anna was giddy with excitement as she set to work in her home office. She had never taken on a project as large or as high profile as this. For the first time, she was being offered guaranteed exposure. A chance to exhibit her talent to hundreds of potential clients every day. And while she had made enough of a name for herself to support a modest lifestyle, she had always wanted to take on a more industrial space. A space that would provide unique challenges and opportunities. What could be more perfect than a bookstore/private home?

She smiled to herself as she started on the map of the entire area. They had all agreed that there was no need to move exterior walls. The footprint of the building would remain the same. Anna would also try to convince her clients not to change the interior layout too much. It had been well designed and executed when it was first constructed. And Anna had one hard, fast rule. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. She bent to the task at hand.

Hours later, she stood to stretch. Her hands ached from the detailed work. Her hip stiff from sitting so long, but the map was complete. It was both user-friendly and technical. She had drawn every wall, window, and door to scale. She had added every light switch and electrical outlet. She had also mapped out the first room she would be working on. It was the largest of all the rooms, potentially the most dramatic. And while she had been working on the technical drawings, her mind had begun to wander. Coming up with different color schemes, furniture concepts and lighting. She was going to opt for elegant, sophisticated without being stuffy. Current without being trendy. No standard metal shelves or veneers here. Instead, she was thinking dark, richly stained wood with lots of molding and trim. Along the exterior walls, the shelves would be as tall as possible. She wanted to maximize the space. The shelves in the center of the room would be shorter to allow for personnel and customers to be able to see the entire room. The checkout area would include a counter built to mimic the shelves. She would complete the room with wooden floors and crystal chandeliers.

But all of that would have to wait. It was almost six o’clock, which meant a light dinner, some yoga, and a nice, long soak. All part of her preventative maintenance program. As she turned off the lights in her office and moved down the hall toward the kitchen her phone rang.

She smiled as she answered. Hey, Kyle. What’s up?

Just making sure we’re still on for tomorrow?

Absolutely. Wouldn’t miss it for the world, she teased.

And you shouldn’t, Kyle agreed. I think I'll be able to come close to our target time of two. I have one other patient before you. He just got out of the hospital. Needs some in home follow-up care. As long as everything goes smoothly, I’ll be on time. If I hit a snag, I’ll call you.

Sounds good. I’m working from home all day tomorrow, so my time is flexible.

On the bookstore job? Kyle wondered enthusiastically. You got it?

Yep. Just today, Anna confirmed.

That’s fantastic! How excited are you?

Ridiculously so, Anna admitted. It will require tons of work, but so worth it. I’ve been waiting to get my hands on something like this. And a bookstore, how perfect can you get?

A job tailor made for you, Kyle agreed. Tomorrow, I want to hear all the details.

Absolutely, she promised.

After a quick pasta salad and forty-five minutes of Yoga Zone, she was ready for the tub. Two years ago when Anna bought and remodeled her house, the tub had been her one extravagance. Jacqueline Hughes, her general contractor and friend, had to change the entire layout of the bathroom, stealing space from the master bedroom, just to fit it in. It had been a risky move, but Anna had never regretted the decision. Sixteen jets, six different massage settings, chromatherapy, a radio speaker system, two headrests, and a heat pump to keep the water hot. It was heaven in a tub. And worth every penny. More often than not she ended her day here, trying to soak away the aches and pains. She slid gently in, scooted down so the water came to her chin,