Ruined By You: The By You Series, #1

By Kelly Harper

Can one summer change your life?

Maggie Simpson has one summer left before college starts. And the last place she wants to spend it is in Green Falls, TX with her mother’s family. She was annoyed when her mother announced the change of plans at the last moment, but as she reconnects with her cousin Sarah, she realizes a summer away might be exactly what she needs.

Maggie decides to find a summer job to keep herself occupied, and to help pay for college. She is ecstatic when Scottie gives her a job at a local watering hole, The Hill Country Saloon, to find a band to headline the annual Battle of the Bands competition.

One night, Maggie meets sexy and mysterious Haden, and he agrees to help her find a band for the competition. As Maggie and Haden work side by side, secrets are unleashed that make Maggie question everything she thought she knew about Haden, and the reason for her summer in Green Falls.

Secrets, so powerful, that her life may never be the same.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kelly Harper
• Release date: Jun 21, 2013
• ISBN: 9781497775343

Book preview

Chapter 1

Mileage signs mocked me each time they passed. At first, there had just been a few. But soon, it was every one. Some of them crept up fast, and some of them take their time. Some of them like to hide from me, and some of them just plain lied. I’d given up. I’d raised the white flag. I just wanted some peace.

I wanted to stretch my legs. I wanted to eat at a table instead of in my lap. I wanted to sleep on something other than a hard, vibrating window.

Were these creature comforts too much to ask for?

We’re almost there, Mom said. She watched the road with a giddy smile on her face.

"There’s something you’re not telling me," I said.

I told you, everything’s fine, she said. She shrugged. We don’t need some big reason to come visit family.

I rolled my eyes. I was getting nowhere with her. It was the same discussion, every time.

I hope you’re not dragging me across the country in hopes that I won’t go to State next year, I said.

I rested my head against the pillow, again.

My mom let out a low groan. "I know you want to go to State next year," she said.

"I’m going to State," I corrected.

I don’t know why you’d want to, she said. You don’t know anyone in the city, and it’s so big. You’ll get lost.

I’ll get a map, I said.

She sighed, keeping her eyes focused on the road.

The interstate coasted along, wrapping in and around the gentle slopes of the Texas Hill Country. Slowly, the trees gave way to buildings, and we found ourselves on the outskirts of Green Falls. It wasn’t long before the car slowed, and Mom took an exit. I let out a long yawn and sat up.

We’d better get some gas, she said. It’s still a drive before we get to your aunt’s house.

A Mom & Pop gas station was just off the highway, and Mom slid the car up to one of the pumps. We had our gas stop routine down to a science. I stretched my legs and gathered trash that had built up since our last stop. I wasn’t sure where all the trash was coming from. It just seemed to keep appearing, and I kept taking it out.

A wooden sign hung outside the door with the word Welcome carved into it. The homely decor within made me smile. A man stood behind the counter, and I sensed someone else lingering in the back aisle near the soft drinks.

Do you have a restroom? I asked the man behind the counter. He was older with leathery, tanned, skin. He grunted at me and pointed toward the back.

I thanked him and walked to the back. The restroom was cleaner than expected - the first good thing to happen all day. Afterward, I washed my hands and made my way back out to the car. Mom smiled at me as I took over pumping the gas so she could run inside. I locked the handle in the automatic position, leaned against the car. The fuel meter ticked upward at an impossibly slow rate. It had been a long time since I’d been in Green Falls—maybe that was just the pace of things. It wasn’t anything like Jersey, that’s for sure.

A car pulled up on the other side of the gas pump. A guy climbed out and started pumping gas. I couldn’t see him well at first, but after a moment he stepped from around the other side of the gas pump and, seeing me standing there, smiled.

Hello, there.

Hi, he said, flashing a perfect smile. Do you know how far it is to Green Falls?

I stared at him for a long moment before I realized he’d asked me a question. I shook my head, my eyes still wide despite my best efforts.

Sorry, no, I said. I didn’t trust myself to say any more.

He flashed another smile and he glanced over his shoulder back at the highway. His long brown hair fluttered, lightly when he looked back. It would have come down to his shoulders if his neck weren’t so long. He was wearing a tight gray shirt, and his arms were covered in tattoos down to his wrists. He looked like he was a few years older than me, and he had a lean, muscular frame. But one thing stood out above all others. His eyes burned a bright emerald green. I was drawn to them like a moth to a flame. I’d only seen those intense fires in one other person.

Me too, he said. Just passing through and thought I’d stop.

An awkward silence passed between us.

Say something. Talk to him.

I smiled, trying to make it cute and sexy, but it probably came off as desperate. He moved his mouth, as though to say something, but he never got the chance.

Maggie, a voice called out, sharply. It’s time to go.

I glanced over. Mom was standing a few steps away at the front of the car. Her eyes were narrowed, staring between the two of us. Heat rushed to my cheeks as I stared at her, disbelievingly.

Does she even realize what she’s doing?

Let’s go, she said, turning back to me before I could say anything. She climbed into the car and I jumped as the door slammed. Let’s go, she yelled, from within.

I turned back to the mystery man.

Sorry about that, I said, squirming my hands toward the door handle. It looks like I have to go.

Looks like it, he agreed.

My hand found the latch, and I managed to get the door open on the second tug. I gave him an awkward smile.

You might want to finish that, he said. I frowned, not realizing what he was talking about.

Then I saw it. The gas pump was still hanging from the tank on the car. Idiot.

I cursed myself and finished pumping it as fast as I could. I twisted the nozzle tight on the tank, and returned the pump to its place. I spun around and realized he’d already returned to his own car, and he wasn’t paying attention, anymore.

Well, you blew that one.

Mom yelled, again.

I’m coming, I’m coming, I said and climbed into the car.

Mom didn’t take any chances, once I’d sat down. She sped off before I’d even had the door all the way shut, and before I knew it, the gas station was fading away in the rear-view mirror.

Way to embarrass me, Mom, I said, turning on her.

Who was that? she asked, her tone betraying her contempt.

He was just asking how far Green Falls was, I said. You didn’t have to go all psycho on us.

You have to be careful around boys like that, she said. You know they’re only after one thing.

I know, Mom, I said. If I just don’t trust any of them, everything should be fine.

She looked at me, her eyes narrowing. This is no joke, Maggie. You have to protect yourself.

You know I’m always careful, I said.

Probably too careful.

Still, she said. You can just never tell these days. The good ones and bad ones all look the same.

We drove the rest of the way in silence. I closed my eyes and leaned my head back, but I couldn’t shake how he’d smiled at me. His whole face had shown bright. But, nothing was so bright as those eyes. There was only one other set of eyes I’d ever seen that were that bright.

Mine.

Where are we? I asked, looking around, curiously, as Mom pulled into the driveway of a familiar looking house.

The front yard was massive, and the long driveway curved from the street around to the front of the house where it led all the way to the front door and continued on to the street again. It reminded me of the drive-through at a fast food place. A brick porch extended out from the front door to the other side of the driveway, like you’d see at a fancy hotel with valet parking, and a shiny Corvette sat beneath the porch—its white paint glistened with the midday sun.

On the side of the house, there was a detached garage with a couple cars parked outside. A small gate connected the garage to the main house, and I could see another building sitting behind the garage. The lawn was well cared for, and small bushes bloomed their flowers along the base of the brick house.

I barely recognize it, either, Mom said. This is your aunt’s house. Grandma’s been living with them for about six months, now.

Memories clicked into place when I thought of my aunt. Instantly, I was able to reconcile my memory of the house with what I saw in front of me.

It looks so different, I said.

Mom laughed. I think Uncle Larry only works so hard so he can afford Aunt Denise’s constant remodeling, she said.

It suddenly struck me just how long it had been since my last visit. The detached garage used to be a small guesthouse. And where the garage had been was now part of the house. The driveway had never wrapped around the front of the house, and there certainly hadn’t been another building sitting in the backyard.

What’s back there? I asked, pointing behind the fence.

That’s the house they built for Grandma, Mom said.

My eyes widened. They had space for another house back there?

Her mouth quirked to the side, and she nodded.

We pulled in behind one of the cars nearest the garage. As I climbed out of the car, the gate creaked open and a girl came sprinting out. She had long flowing brown hair, and even longer legs. She crashed into me with a massive hug.

Oh my God, Maggie, it’s been so long, Sarah said. She squeezed me tightly, and I returned the hug.

You’ve grown up so much, I said, genuinely surprised.

She pulled away, a huge smile spread across her face. "I’m not the only one," she said, eyeing me up and down.

Sarah was a year younger than me, and when we were kids we had been all but inseparable. I hadn’t seen her since we moved to Jersey.

When did you get taller than me? I asked.

Probably around the same time that you got prettier than me, she laughed. Aunt Patty, it’s so nice to see you. Sarah walked around the car and gave Mom a hug. You look like you’ve lost some weight.

How sweet of you to say, Mom said, beaming.

I better go wake up Grandma - she wanted to know as soon as you got here.

My mother shushed her. If she’s sleeping, don’t bother her.

She’s not sleeping, a voice said, from near the gate. "And you do look like you’ve lost some weight, dear."

Grandma stood there, looking even younger and more vibrant than the last time I’d seen her. Her hair was stark white and done up in tiny curls. She walked over to me and wrapped me in a hug. We squeezed each other, and she kissed me lightly on the forehead. Her smell brought back even more memories of my childhood summers.

It’s good to see you, Grandma, I said.

You too, child, she said.

She turned and faced my mom. There was a tiny distance between the two women as they studied one another, and Mom had an uncertain look in her eye. Neither of them said anything for a long moment. Then, Grandma walked over and gave her a hug.

How was the drive? she asked, finally pulling away.

Long, Mom said. But, we’re here now.

Grandma stared deep into her eyes and nodded. That you are, she said. I’m so happy to see the both of you.

Sarah beamed while she looked between the two of them.

You two start getting the car unloaded, Grandma said to us. We’ll be inside getting everything settled.

Sarah’s eyebrows bounced in excitement as her eyes met mine.

We’re on it, she said.

Sarah had already popped the trunk of the car and was hauling out suitcases when Mom and Grandma disappeared behind the fence, arm in arm.

I bet you’re exhausted, she said. How long of a drive was it from Newark?

Too long, I grumbled.

I’m so excited that you’re spending the summer here, she said. It’s been forever.

I nodded. It’s been a while.

Eight years, she said, matter-of-factly. Ever since you all moved from Houston to New Jersey.

I hadn’t even realized, I said.

She shrugged. You’re here now. It’s going to be a great summer.

We grabbed the first load of suitcases and began dragging them toward the house. As we cleared the gate, I got my first look at the massive back yard. A cement walkway led from the gate to the right. It wound around the side of the house to the back patio. A gigantic pool nestled itself to the left of it, and a cabana sat on the far side of the pool. The water splashed and rippled with the gentle breeze, and the smell of the chlorine tried to lure me closer.

To the left of the gate, sat Grandma’s house. Compared to the main house, it wasn’t that big, but I imagined it was more than enough for her. A huge oak door was cracked open, and Sarah led the way with two suitcases in tow. The opening led into a tiny living room, and a hallway extended further into the house.

This place is beautiful, I said, taking it all in. Your parents went all out.

Wait till you see the house, Sarah laughed. They’re crazy.

I shrugged. I guess if you have the money, you might as well spend it.

I think my mom is trying to spend it all, Sarah said. I just hope she leaves some for the rest of us.

We laughed together. It felt nice to be near her again. There was an unspoken bond that connected us, and I hadn’t realized just how much I missed it until that very moment. Those kinds of connections were hard to find.

I followed her to the master bedroom where Mom and Grandma quieted when they heard us coming.

Let me help you with that, Grandma said, rushing over with her hand outstretched.

No, I’ve got it, I said, tugging the suitcase out of her reach. Where should I put my things? I asked.

Oh, you’re staying with me in the house, Sarah said, her eyes bright. It’s going to be like an all-summer slumber party.

We both laughed. That sounds like just what I need before going off to college.

A knock at the door interrupted the laughter, and everyone looked around, confused.

Who could that possibly be? Grandma said, her head leaning toward the front door.

Sarah’s grin widened.

It’s probably Huck, she said, her eyes sparkling.

Chapter 2

I followed Sarah to the front door. When she opens it, there’s a tall guy with blond hair standing in the doorway. He gives us both a huge smile.

Huck, you made it, Sarah said.

He grinned. I told you I would.

Huck, you remember Maggie, she said, gesturing to me.

It’s hard to forget the girl with the bright red hair, he said.

Seeing him brings back memories long forgotten. The three of us had spent many summers together, tubing out on the river. Those were simpler times.

He held his hand out, and I shook it.

It’s been so long, I said. How’ve you been?"

I’ve been good, he said. Not much excitement here in Green Falls. Not like New Jersey, I’m sure.

We followed Sarah to the back of the house. Mom and Grandma were already unpacking bags and putting clothes away in the closet.

Well hello there, little Huckleberry, Mom said. Huck’s cheeks burned bright red. I bet you don’t get called that much anymore, she said.

Hello, Mrs. Simpson, he said. Sometimes my parents use my full name, but mostly its just ‘Huck’. Grandma Estelle, hello.

"Ms. Simpson, Mom corrected. She regarded him for a moment. You’ve grown into a handsome young man, Huckleberry. I hope you’re not getting yourself into too much trouble."

No ma’am, he said. My Dad keeps me busy enough to make sure I stay out of trouble.

How are our parents doing? Mom asked. She was close to them, when we lived in Texas.

They’re doing well, Huck said. I actually can’t stay long - I promised Dad I would help him with the deer fence. We found a hole in it last night, and the deer are getting out.

Mom gave him another warm smile. Give them my best when you see them, she said. And tell them to come by and visit sometime. I’d love to catch up with them.

Yes, ma’am, he said, again. I’m sure they will. They were excited when I told them y’all were going to be in town. He gave her one final smile and then turned back to Sarah. Are we still on for tonight? he asked.

Sarah nodded her head, quickly. Maggie’s going to love it, she said, excitedly.

I frowned in confusion. What’s going on tonight? I asked.

Sarah turned to me, her eyes narrowing mischievously. It’s a surprise, she said. But you’re going to enjoy it.

You’re not taking her to the Saloon are you? Grandma asked, tilting her chin down.

Grandma! Sarah whined, folding her arms.

Grandma shrugged, throwing her hands in the air. It’s no big surprise, she said. You two are down there almost every night.

Wait, you’re going out to a bar? Mom said, her eyes darting between us.

I shrugged my shoulders, hoping that she understood I had nothing to do with it.

It’s harmless, Sarah said. We just go there and hang out and have a good time.

Just a good time? You girls aren’t even close to twenty-one, Mom said, her tone frantic. What are you doing hanging out at bars?

Sarah’s smile was unrelenting. It’s just where everyone goes. It’s harmless fun.

Mom stared at her in disbelief. For a second, I worried she was going to forbid me from going. Thankfully, Grandma came to our rescue.

Patricia, it’ll be fine, she said. Everyone knows them down there. They’ll be perfectly safe. Then, she fixed each of us with a threatening stare. "And I’m sure they’ll be on their best behavior."

We all gulped and nodded our heads quickly. Mom studied me for another long second, though. She wasn’t going to be swayed that easily. Not about something like this.

Just make sure you’re safe, she said to me. "And don’t even think about touching that stuff."

We’ll be fine, Mom, I said, trying to downplay it as much as possible. That was the wrong move.

She shook her head. No. You promise me you’re not going to drink, she said.

I cast a nervous smile at Sarah. Mom, stop, you’re embarrassing me, I said.

She took a step closer, and I saw her cheeks tinge red. It was the most upset I’d seen her in a long time.

Promise me, she said.

I nodded, quickly. I promise, Mom, I said. You know I don’t drink.

She studied me long and hard, like she thought I might be hiding something from her. I felt my cheeks blushing. Huck probably thought I was a recovering alcoholic, or something. I’m sure I was leaving quite the first impression.

Finally, Mom gave me a tight nod, and the tension in her face eased. Everyone smiled at each other, nervously. Sarah rocked on her feet, unsure of what to say.

Well, I better get going, Huck said. His eyes glanced at Grandma and Mom, cautiously. I don’t want Dad thinking I’ve forgotten my responsibilities.

I’ll walk you out, Sarah said.

I’ll join you, I chimed in, quickly.

Grandma gave us a knowing smile, but she didn’t say anything. It was going to be an interesting summer.

After seeing Huck off, Sarah led me through the house to her room. I remembered the basic layout of the house from my summers spent there before, but my aunt and uncle had done so much remodeling that it felt like a different house, entirely. The floors had been completely redone in some kind of elaborate marble, and the house felt like it belonged in some kind of magazine.

I can’t believe you’re here, Sarah said as

Reviews for Ruined By You

[KaijudozeroDaBoss · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved this series. But I've come across these other two books that have the same guy on the front cover but the authors are different and they have somethings in common but aren't the same guy. I'm totally lost with this. But loved all stories.