A Family Of Friends

By Julia Mangan

Friends of a small Missouri town learn to deal with love, life and controversy. They are always there for each other in good times and bad. The four Women are strong Business women. Cassie and Carrie inherited the town diner after the death of their parents. Cassie stayed to run the business, while Carrie went to Nashville to make it big in the music industry. Carrie comes home to her family after she discovers her fiancé isn't what she thought he was.
Tammy takes over the family bar and transforms it into the hottest night club around. She and her long time boyfriend have issues they fight over frequently. This makes their relationship an on-again-off-again kind of relationship.
Jackie was kicked out of her family home after an attack by a family friend. She lives with Tammy's family from the age of sixteen to eighteen. At eighteen se receives an inheritance from her grandmother and purchases a building on the square. She turns it into a boutique and starts an on-line boutique. She has loved Tammy's cousin, Joe from afar for years.
John becomes the youngest Chief of Police in their town. The job doesn't leave much time for Tammy. He spends his nights in the club watching over Tammy and longing to get her back.
Joe is an ex-Marine that was imprisoned in an enemy camp for over six months before coming home to their small town. He now works for Tammy at the club as her bartender. He has loved Jackie for years but was too shy to let her know until she starts sending him signals that she is interested in him too.
Can they all find the loves of their lives or will misunderstandings and controversy keep them apart?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Julia Mangan
• Release date: Oct 27, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311242389

Julia Mangan

I am 56 years young and the Second of five children. I have been married to my husband for 28 years. We have four kids and eight grandkids. I have an associate degree in business administration and accounting. While in college about 25 years ago my English Lit. teacher told me I had a natural talent for writing. I decided to finally see if maybe she was right. I love to read but I enjoy writing so much more. My characters become friends. I hope you will feel the same way. Happy reading.

Book preview

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Dedication

This is my first book and I cpuldn't have done it without the encouragement from my two best friends. Melissa and Lori thank you both for being their for me and always having my back. I love you ladies.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Happy Birthday Cassie

Chapter 2 A New Interest And A Nightmare

Chapter 3 Aunt Truvie Is Disapptointed, Hurt, Then Happy

Chapter 4 Friends Gather For News

Chapter 5 Helping Hands From Family And Friends

Chapter 6 Cassie Embarrasses Herself Twice In One Day

Chapter 7 Cassie Asks For Help

Chapter 8 Together Again

Chapter 9 Why Can’t Everyone Just Be Happy

Chapter 10 Carrie’s Big Surprise

Chapter 11 Decisions Are Made And Friends Informed

Chapter 12 The Secret Meeting

Chapter 13 A Good Time Is Had By All

Chapter 14 Fragile Bonds Are Built

Chapter 15 A Day Of Confessions And Resolving Matters

Chapter 16 A Much Needed Talk

Chapter 17 Friends Reunite

Chapter 18 Pushing Gently

Chapter 19 Fire Strikes The Diner

Chapter 20 Talk Of Arson And Safety

Chapter 21 The Authorities And The Ladies

Chapter 22 Carrie Is Thrown For A Loop, Doug Centers Her

Chapter 23 The Lane Twins Do Sexy

Chapter 24 Attack At The Boot Heel

Chapter 25 Striving To Feel Safe

Chapter 26 Revealing Their Hearts

Chapter 27 Letting Love Flow

Chapter 28 Craig Helps Pull Off A Big Surprise

Chapter 29 Life Is Changing For The Lane Women

Books Coming

Songs Used In The Book

Preview Of A Fight For Love - Tammy's Story

Chapter 1

Happy Birthday Cassie

Cassie is wondering what she has agreed to as she looks in the mirror and tries to figure out what Jackie, one of her best friends and owner of Unique Boutique, was thinking when she picked out this outfit for her to wear out in public. Jackie, please tell me you are not serious about me actually wearing this out of this room.

What’s wrong with it? It’s fun; it’s flirty and it’s your birthday gift from me so you have to wear it. Jackie said standing in the doorway of the fitting room of her boutique with her hands on her hips, a determined look on her face. You look amazing! How can you not like the way you look in that?

Cassie looked at Jackie and just shook her head. Where do I start Jackie? It’s hot pink for crying out loud. I am not a hot pink kind of gal and most definitely never show this much cleavage. Look at me Jackie; the girls are practically falling out. Halter style blouses cannot contain this much baggage. And this skirt is not big enough for an eight year old let alone a twenty-four year old. I’m sorry; but I just can’t wear this out of this room.

Jackie just rolled her eyes at her uptight friend. She knew her friend so well. That’s why she chose that particular outfit. Now she could give her the real gift. Fine I’ll fix this but you will wear the next one or I’m going to bring Tammy over here and let her pick your clothes out for tonight. As she turned from the fitting room she couldn’t help but smile because she knew she had Cassie right where she wanted her. Their friend Tammy owned ‘The Boot Heel’ the local bar and dance club and was a little wild even for Jackie.

You would not do that to me, besides Tammy is busy right now getting ready to open ‘The Boot Heel’. She doesn’t have time to come over and shop for me. So that won’t work this time Cassie said with a smirk; sure she had won the battle even before it started.

Cassie could hear Jackie’s muffled voice through the door as she said, You aren’t giving me near enough credit; girl. I had Tammy come over earlier today and pick out what she thought you should wear tonight; and if you don’t like the one you have on; you Really don’t want to have to wear the one she chose.

"Tell me again why I can’t just wear my jeans and t-shirt tonight. It is my birthday after all. Shouldn’t I be allowed to be comfortable on my birthday? Cassie asked. Besides I’m just going for one drink then leaving. I don’t see what all the fuss is about." Cassie stated again for the third time since coming into the boutique.

Oh no, you aren’t leaving until you have some fun. We’ve discussed this already and you are not leaving until at least midnight Cinderella. Tammy said she would tie you to the bar if she had to but you are getting a night out for some fun and maybe a little lovin’ if we can find you the right man for the job. Now try these on and no complaining. Jackie opened the door holding skinny jeans and a denim jacket that she handed to Cassie.

Cassie looked at the clothes that Jackie thrust at her. At least she would be able to cover her butt and the girls would be corralled. Fine I’ll wear these and stay a while but there will be no lovin’ goin’ on tonight! Are you hearing me Jackie, I mean it? I am not looking for a man; not for one night or for even one hour. No men tonight just the girls out for the night.

Geez Jackie, could you pick out a pair of jeans any tighter? I’m not sure you can see my ass dimples in these.

Jackie threw back her head and laughed then put her arm around Cassie and said, They look great. You look amazing! I’m so jealous. You have all the curves in all the right places. That outfit just shows them all off to perfection. No they aren’t your regular jeans and baggie t-shirt but that’s a good thing girl. Just accept you’re Hot and flaunt it for one night. Come on Tammy is waiting for us and we have some celebrating to do.

They walked arm in arm down the street to the club for a fun night of drinking, dancing and flirting with all the cowboys. Tammy and Jackie decided it was time to get their friend to lighten up and enjoy life for a change. She worked too hard to make the family diner succeed after the death of her parents five years ago.

Cassie had taken over the running of her parent’s diner five years ago; after they were killed when their car went off an icy road. They had gone out of town to celebrate their anniversary. Cassie and her twin sister Carrie were devastated and both were trying to cope with their parents’ deaths in the best way each knew how. Carrie had gone away and hadn’t been back since. Cassie had taken on the task of running ‘The Diner’ at the tender age of nineteen. Carrie kept in touch with Cassie but said she couldn’t stay in the small town and work in ‘The Diner’ anymore. So Cassie, not knowing if Carrie would ever be able to handle coming home, decided to not only, keep ‘‘The Diner’’ going for their parents, but to make it prosper.

As they reached the ‘The Boot Heel’, Cassie took a deep breath to steady her nerves and told herself you can do this girl. You don’t have to stay long and they can’t make you do anything you don’t want to do. Yeah right. Her friends were like steam rollers that were out of control when they got something in their heads. All she could do was hold on tight and hope to survive the night unscathed.

It’s about time you two got here! I was just getting ready to go find you. We have some serious partying to do. WOW! Cassie you look great. I hate to admit it but Jackie you did good. Tammy hollered from behind the bar as soon as they walked in the door.

Thanks Tammy. I just feel uncomfortable in these clothes. They are too tight and I can’t even close this jacket all the way. The girls could make an unexpected appearance at any time; if I make one wrong move. Cassie said as she tried to close the jacket over her ample cleavage.

You’ve been hiding long enough behind your old jeans and baggie t-shirts. Girl, you’ve got nothing to be ashamed of. You know the old saying; if you got it flaunt it, well girl you got it. Now let’s get some drinks in you so you will stop worrying so much. It’s time to have some fun. Tammy said as she placed Tequila shots and lime wedges on the bar.

Thank you, Tammy. I’ve been telling her the same thing for the last hour. Happy Birthday Cassie! We love you and will always be here to help in any way you need us to. You know that right? Jackie said as she raised her shot in a toast.

Sisters to the end, Tammy said as she raised her shot glass. They all took their shots, and then gasped for the breath the Tequila took away. After catching her breath, Tammy asked, So have you heard from Carrie today?

I do know that, Jackie. Thank you both. Yeah Carrie and I talked this morning. She says she’s doing fine and she says hi but she didn’t sound like herself. I don’t know, maybe I’m just hearing things that aren’t there but I’m worried about her. Cassie said as she looked into her glass then looked at her friends to get their reaction.

Tammy and Jackie looked at each other then looked back at Cassie. Cassie I don’t know what to say but if you have a feeling that something is off with Carrie; you have to trust your twin connection. You should try calling her again tomorrow to talk to her. Maybe you can even talk her into coming home for a visit. She’s been gone too long and I know you miss her. We all miss her. Tammy said giving her a hug.

I know thanks. I just don’t think she would come back. You know how hard it was for right after Mom and Dad died. She was the baby and she just can’t get past the loss.

It was hard for you too and she just left you to try to carry on with their dream of giving the folks of this town a nice place to eat out; as well as a great place for everyone to gather. In case no one has told you lately you’ve done a great job and they would be proud of you and what you’ve made of their dream. Jackie said with an arm around Cassie’s shoulder.

Thank you for saying that. It means a lot to me, really. Cassie said with a sniffle.

Ok enough of this. No more making the birthday girl cry. Tammy said with a smile. Another round of drinks Joe, and keep them coming. We’re celebratin’. She told the bartender; To Birthday fun, drinks, family, and great friends! Tammy exclaimed as they all raised their glasses.

Hear Hear, and to dancin’, and hot guys and lots of lovin’. Jackie said with a wink to Cassie.

They all laughed and downed their drinks. Cassie looked at Jackie with her head lowered and tried to give her the evil eye as she said, I told you there will be no lovin’ for me tonight.

Jackie and Tammy gave each other a knowing look and laughed. Then each friend took an arm and led her to the dance floor.

We better dance some of these drinks off if we’re going to party and drink all night.

Tammy, I agreed to have a few drinks not party all night. Cassie yelled in order to be heard over the music.

Tammy laughed and twirled her around. Loosen up girl. We’re here to have fun. Let’s dance and see how the night goes.

Cassie finally gave in for now and decided to do just what Tammy said; lighten up and have fun.

Chapter 2

A New Interest And A Nightmare

Cassie was sitting at the table a couple hours later and watching her friends dance with a couple guys they had met. It wasn’t like she wasn’t asked to dance; she was. She just didn’t want to lead any of the guys there on. She wasn’t looking for a relationship or even hook-up for the night. She was here to hang out with her friends, listen to the music, and drink a little before going home and falling into bed. She checked her watch; ten o’clock she only had to stay for two more hours

She sat for a while lost in thought about Carrie. She didn’t know why she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong with her twin. They had always had that kind of connection, no matter how far apart they were; they just had a sixth sense, for lack of a better word, that something was wrong. Right now she was feeling it but in a different way. It wasn’t like she thought Carrie was hurt, just anxious or worried about something. It was just kind of a jittery feeling she had that just wouldn’t go away.

The girls came back to the table with their guys and were laughing with them. This is our friend Cassie. Cassie this is Kyle and Charles. Tammy said. They are regulars in here; Aren’t you boys?

Yes ma’am’! The two said together with a smile and an arm around their girl. They sat down and Charles ordered another round for the table.

No please. I can pay for my drink; but thank you Charles. Cassie said.

Please call me Chuck. That’s what all my friends call me. Then he looked to Jackie and said, I thought you said you were celebratin’ her birthday.

We are. she told him.

Then please allow me to buy you a birthday drink; anything you want. He said to Cassie.

Well, when you put that way then yes; thank you Charles; I mean Chuck. Cassie said with a small strained laugh; thinking Chuck was bordering on being a pompous shmuck.

After the drinks came, Cassie started people watching. She loved to watch people interact. She would sometimes watch people and try to figure out what they were feeling; if they were happy with the person they were with or upset etc...

She glanced over at the bar and noticed Police Chief John Wright sitting by himself. That was odd because everyone loved to talk to John because he always had the latest and best news. Maybe she could go talk to him for a while before she went home. They had been friends as far back as she could remember and they enjoyed each other’s company. She went to get up, when she noticed someone walk up and take the stool beside John.

This stranger was tall and had on a black cowboy hat but that was about all she could tell from where she sat. She sat back down but couldn’t look away from the stranger. He sat straight like he was uncomfortable; before John started talking to him. They talked a bit; then started laughing at something the stranger said.

John looked over at his cousin, Well, it’s good to see you again Mikey. What’s it been, three years? I’m glad you’re here and I’m sorry about your Grandpa. Uncle Michael was a stubborn old goat but a good man. He will be missed.

Thanks Johnny. It has been a long time. So you’re a Police Chief huh? I’m impressed, Cousin. The way I remember it you were in trouble more often than not. Mike laughed.

John chuckled with him. Yeah it was a choice of which side of the cell doors I wanted to be on. I decided I like the view from the outside better; so here I am. Can I buy you a drink?

Sure Johnny thanks, whatever’s on tap works for me tonight.

While they waited for their drinks; they turned their barstools toward the dance floor to watch the couples dancing and partying. Kind of busy tonight isn’t it? Even for a Friday night it seems packed. Is something special going on tonight? Mike asked.

Nah, they’re just folks wanting to cut loose for a bit and relax from the busy work week. It’s been a while since you’ve been here. This is about normal for a Friday night. Things have picked up since Tammy took over running the place. John said as he watched from his perch.

That’s when Mike noticed the three women and two men laughing and being a little rowdy on the other side of the room. The Woman without a man beside her was laughing at something one of the others had said and happened to glance up. Their eyes met, she gave him a small smile that shot a jolt straight through him. He couldn’t look away. She was breathtaking. Then when he smiled back, she looked away and broke the spell.

What’s the story on the table with the three ladies and two men over there? They seem to be having a really good time.

That’s Tammy, Jackie and Cassie and the two men are Kyle and Charles; but I’m assuming you aren’t interested in the two of them. Tammy is the blond and owns this place. She lives upstairs. It must be a special occasion because Tammy seems to be drinking quite a bit and she doesn’t usually do that here. She doesn’t want people to think she can’t handle anything that comes up. She needs the respect of her patrons.

My guess is she won’t be handling anything tonight. It’s a good thing she lives upstairs because I don’t think she could make it much farther than that tonight. Mike said as they watched her tip to the side of her chair: Good thing the guy with her has fast reflexes. Mike laughed.

That’s Kyle; I don’t like the looks of that. Tammy’s smart as well as tough but she’s too drunk to make good decisions right now. John said with a squint to his eyes at the guy.

Is he bad news or some kind of trouble maker? He wouldn’t hurt her would he? Mike asked ready to rescue the lady and maybe meet her friend.

John put his hand on Mike’s arm to stay him and said, No, like I said Tammy is one tough cookie and won’t put up with much. I’ll just keep an eye on them for now.

Mike glanced back at the beautiful stranger and she gave him a smile that lit up her whole face. He smiled back and tipped his hat to her. He decided right then he had to meet her before the night was over. Then he realized John was still talking to him.

"…Is Jackie. She owns the ‘Unique Boutique’ down the street and the other one is Cassie. Cassie owns ‘‘The Diner’’ on the other end of the Square. The other guy is Charles. He’s a good guy but likes to party a little too much. I see a lot of him; more than I’d like.

He watched his beautiful stranger as she looked up again and noticed him looking at her, and yes he already thought of her as his. As he stood and started to excuse himself, she said something to her companions then stood and left the club. "She has very long legs and other attributes that are intriguing. You can run but you can’t hide." He thought with a smile.

Hmmm, she left in a hurry. I guess I should go check up on the ladies and make sure the boys are behaving themselves. John said with a sigh.

Mike smiled and asked, Mind if I tag along? It might be interesting to see you work. Besides you may need some help.

Ha Ha! You’re welcome to tag along funny boy but I can handle those two by myself with no problem.

* * * * * *

Cassie looked up again and watched the tall cowboy talking and laughing with John. He has a nice profile. I wish I could see the rest of his face. Those jeans are nicely filled out, and make his well-defined legs look a mile long. I wonder just how tall he is. Cassie thought. Then they both turned to face the dance floor and she got her first glimpse of his face full on. Her heart sped up and her mouth went dry. Just then Jackie poked her in the ribs and asked if she was already shit faced because she looked flushed.

You’ll be flushed if you poke me again and they’ll need a plumber to get you out. She told Jackie with a wink and they all laughed.

She looked back to the bar where the cowboy was looking at her still. She gave him a small, shy smile and he smiled back. Then she picked up her drink and emptied it. She could feel his eyes on her but refuse to look again. The others were talking but she had no clue what they were saying. She asked a server for a glass of ice water hoping that might cool her off a little; because it had suddenly gotten very warm in here.

She couldn’t stand it anymore; she had to look. When she looked up, there he was still looking right at her. The fire in his eyes made her feel very sexy. That was such a new feeling that she couldn’t hold back the smile that split her face, she could only think how strange that she had made it twenty-four years and never truly felt sexy. How sad was that?

He smiled back and tipped his cowboy hat. The look on his face was mischievous and very hungry at the same time.

Oh no! Please don’t let them get up and come over? I have to get out of here now! She thought. Ladies, gentlemen it’s been great fun but I have an early morning so I’m headed home. Thank you for a lovely birthday.

It’s not midnight yet Cinderella. Jackie said as Cassie stood and pushed in her chair.

You can’t go yet. Tammy cried as she continued walking away.

I’ll see you girls tomorrow; sometime in the afternoon I’m thinking. Cassie said with a wave as she hurried to the door.

Once she was outside and halfway to ‘‘The Diner’’ and home, after several backward glances to see if he had followed her out, she leaned against the wall of the pharmacy and took a deep breath.

I am such a coward she thought. But she hadn’t flirted with anyone since high school. She didn’t think she even remembered how. Besides he was sexy as hell and as soon as she opened her mouth he would lose interest. With a groan she pushed away from the wall and headed to the back stairs of ‘The Diner’ to her apartment.

Once she was inside her apartment she went straight to the bathroom to take a nice cool shower before bed. When she looked in the mirror on the back of the door she saw how she was dressed and then realization hit her. The reasons he was smiling at her was (1) The girls were more out of the stupid halter than in or (2) he thought either she was easy or a tease. Neither idea made for a good first impression. Hopefully he would go back to where he came from and she would never have to face him again.

She took the humiliating