30 Below

By Wendy Oleston

Sex.

Faith Quinn didn’t have much experience in that department, at least not until she met Lucas. But then again, a lot of things changed when he stepped into the picture. They fell in love the moment their eyes met, and as wonderful as it felt, it also set in motion a chain of events that would ultimately change the quality of their lives forever. Honesty, trust, and stress-free living become nearly impossible to find as this couple willingly steps outside God’s design for sex and marriage. This leaves them asking the question: what would things have been like had they followed the wise design of their loving Father from the beginning?

Follow Faith and Lucas for 100 days from the time they meet and watch as they struggle with their attraction and what to do with it. Watch two completely different scenarios unfold, and see the contrast and ramifications of their decisions.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Maven Christian
• Release date: Feb 17, 2016
• ISBN: 9780997052305

Wendy Oleston

Author Wendy Oleston has had a very interesting life! Now married to Ryan and living in Wisconsin with their two children, Brett and Caroline, she is a very proud recovering alcoholic who owes everything to her faith in God. Wendy is very creative and uses her own experiences in life to write her books so they are laced with her own struggles and victories. She writes Christian fiction but in a real-world sense, including real-life issues while maintaining a Christian backbone. Yes, her writing includes some language and sex, but that is the reality of the world. Her goal is to entertain while infusing the love of Christ. She desires to get her readers thinking, laughing, crying and thinking some more! She has a knack for creating likeable characters with a real-feel which tend to stay in the reader's mind long after they have finished her books. She hopes to continue writing books which will insight a delightful exclamation of "I've never read anything like that before!"

Book preview

Table of Contents

PART I: WITH

Friday, Day 1

Saturday, Early Morning, Day 2

Saturday Morning, Day 2

Saturday Afternoon, Day 2

Sunday Morning, Day 3

Sunday Evening, Day 3

Monday, Day 4

Tuesday, Day 5

Wednesday, Day 6

Thursday, Day 7

Friday, Day 8

Saturday, Day 9

Sunday, Day 10

Monday, Day 11

Tuesday, Day 12

Wednesday, Day 13

Thursday, Day 14

Friday, Day 15

Sunday, Day 17

Monday, Day 18

Tuesday Early Morning, Day 19

Tuesday, Day 19

Wednesday, Day 20

Thursday, Day 21

Friday, Day 22

Saturday, Day 23

Sunday, Day 24

Monday, Day 25

Monday Evening, Day 25

Tuesday Morning, Day 26

Tuesday Afternoon, Day 26

Days 27-47

Wednesday, Day 48

Monday, Day 53

Tuesday, Day 54

Wednesday, Day 55

Thursday, Day 56

Days 57-63

Days 64-70

Days 71-77

Days 78-84

Wednesday Morning, Day 90

Wednesday Afternoon, Day 90

Thursday, Day 91

Days 92-97

Day 99

Day 100

PART II: WITHOUT

Friday, Day 1

Saturday Early Morning, Day 2

Saturday Afternoon, Day 2

Sunday Morning, Day 3

Sunday Evening, Day 3

Monday, Day 4

Tuesday, Day 5

Wednesday, Day 6

Thursday, Day 7

Friday, Day 8

Saturday, Day 9

Sunday, Day 10

Tuesday, Day 12

Wednesday, Day 13

Thursday, Day 14

Friday, Day 15

Monday, Day 18

Tuesday, Day 19

Wednesday, Day 20

Thursday, Day 21

Friday, Day 22

Saturday Afternoon, Day 23

Saturday Evening, Day 23

Sunday, Day 24

Monday, Day 25

Tuesday, Day 26

Thursday, Day 28

Friday, Day 29

Saturday, Day 30

Saturday, Day 37

Wednesday, Day 48

Friday, Day 50

Saturday, Day 51

Monday, Day 53

Wednesday, Day 55

Friday, Day 57

Thursday, Day 63

Friday, Day 64

Sunday Morning, Day 73

Sunday Afternoon, Day 73

Friday, Day 92

Saturday, Day 93

Sunday, Day 94

Saturday, Day 100

CONTENT WARNING:

While this book is Christian in theme, it contains strong sexual content and language.

Dedication

For my husband

Being married to me is a challenge.

Thank you for making it look easy.

Acknowledgements

Mary Lanier for reminding me that God creates ALL life

Teresa Terrill for listening and getting it right

Stacie Hogue for all the brainstorming and support

Jennifer Carlson for making the name stick to the wall

Natasha Preston for the encouragement to keep going

Lisa Angel Miller for the editing assistance

My beta readers: Stacie, Lauren, Martha, Jessica, Ryan, Caren, Kristi, Deborah, Lucy

Sean and Jessica for believing in me enough to take a chance on me

We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other.

I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears and all my members, MY REASON and all my senses, and still takes care of them.

-Martin Luther

WITH

FRIDAY, DAY 1

IT WAS A frigid Friday night. Thirty below was not a normal temperature in this portion of Wisconsin by any means, but it was the current reality. Faith stood in line at the local pizza shop waiting to buy her dinner. She shivered even though standing inside, wrapped up in her heaviest winter coat.

Her heart was strangely heavy. Feeling little to nothing was normal and had been for years. A recent medication change for her severe mental disorder made her realize the old prescriptions had been blocking her emotions. Now, with the new medicine seeping into her system and the old medicine leaving, she felt as though she were waking up for the first time in forever.

After ordering, there would be a ten-minute wait, but that was fine with her. There was nowhere to be and no one to see. The television was the only thing waiting for her at home.

After checking her phone for notifications and finding nothing new, she looked down at the floor. The tiles were white… or at least had been white. Now gray at best, with lots of dirt crammed in the crevices in between, she imagined what the floor might have looked like when it was new. How many customers had walked across it since then? As a weekly patron, she’d helped turn what had once been brand new into this filthy mess before her.

Her pizza was ready. She stepped up to the counter and reached into her purse… only to find her wallet missing. In a split second, she remembered taking it out earlier to make an online purchase. It was still sitting on the desk, doing her absolutely no good at all.

I don’t have my wallet.

Groans from the people in line behind her filled the room. After a deep breath she spoke, I’m sorry, I guess I’ll have to come back.

A male voice came from behind her. I’ll get that for you, ma’am.

She turned and there he was, ready to part with a ten-dollar bill. A smile struck her heart as he pulled his wallet out of his back pocket.

No, I can’t let you do that, really… it’s okay. I’ll just come back later.

It’s not a big deal, he said with a gentle smile that took her breath away. He was very attractive, tall with hazel eyes and brown hair. Struck speechless, she could only watch as he paid the cashier. No one had ever done anything like that for her before.

The man stepped away from the counter and Faith followed. Thank you so much, she said, you didn’t have to do that.

He held the pizza box out. Really, it’s not a big deal. I’ve been there, and I remember what it felt like, so no worries.

She took the box slowly, unsure if she should. Thank you… I don’t know what else to say.

You’re welcome. You don’t need to say anything else. Just pay it forward.

She nodded. I will.

He opened the door to the blistering cold. He was hard to walk away from, but the cold air from outside was pouring in as he held the door, so she made herself leave.

A smile found her face as she walked towards her car. A quick look back to see him one last time made her stop in her tracks. Apparently, he’d stepped out of line to help her, and the other people weren’t allowing him back in his spot. Faith found herself marching right back towards the pizza shop. She pushed the door open and shouted, Are you guys kidding me?

The room fell silent.

He stepped out of line to be nice and help a stranger. Cut the guy a break and let him back in line! She creased her brow.

One of the women didn’t like Faith’s tone and began yelling.

The good Samaritan stepped between them as shouting filled the room. Faith’s heart began to race. This is exactly why I don’t like being in public; people in general suck!

He turned to her. Come on, let’s get out of here.

Faith shook her head. No, you didn’t get your pizza even though you paid for one.

I don’t need one, really. It’s not worth it.

Come on. He opened the door again and led her outside, where the wind whipped at her face, reminding her of the bitterness outside.

Even so, his voice was warm. Thank you for coming back. That was really nice.

Being nice doesn’t really pay, does it?

Sure it does. He paused to look down at her. I got the pleasure of meeting you.

A small smile found her lips. Well, we haven’t officially met yet.

True. We should fix that.

We should.

I’m Lucas, he said, extending his gloved hand to her.

She took it. Hi, Lucas, I’m Faith. It’s nice to meet you… officially.

They shook hands as another burst of wind hit them, blowing fallen snow towards them. She squinted tightly and shivered as she turned away from the gust.

He shielded her with his body. This is going to sound a little crazy, but would you be interested in sharing your pizza? That is, if you don’t already have plans.

She was surprised by his suggestion and spoke without thinking, No, no… I don’t. It was just going to be me and the History Channel tonight.

Another blast of wind hit them, prompting Lucas to take action. Come on, we better get out of this before we freeze.

Something about him made her feel safe so she went along, enjoying his executive decision. Sexy.

Once in his Chevy

Trailblazer, they looked at each other, breath frosting the air between them. Let me get us warmed up, he said and started the truck. The engine was still warm so the heat worked immediately.

He took the pizza box from her, placing it on the console between them.

She looked at him. Thank you so much for being so nice to me. I feel incredibly stupid.

No, don’t. It was my pleasure. Thank you for coming back.

Embarrassed at the memory of how she’d yelled at strangers, she closed her eyes and hid her face behind her hands. Oh my, I can’t believe I did that. She peered through her fingers and continued, I’m sorry. I hope I didn’t embarrass you. I certainly embarrassed myself. I’m not usually like that; I don’t know what got into me.

No, it was fine. It was nice… sweet even. Thank you.

Her hands dropped to her lap. You probably think I’m a mess.

No, not at all.

After taking her gloves and hat off, Faith ran her fingers through her long, straight brown hair, trying to tame it from the static in the air. Their eyes connected and words left her without a thought. You have really pretty eyes.

He blushed slightly. Thank you. You have a beautiful smile.

Embarrassed by the compliment, she figured he’d only said it out of obligation.

Awkward silence filled the truck; enough to make them both laugh at the same time.

He pointed to the drugstore in the strip mall. Let me go get us something to drink, and then we can eat right here. Is that okay with you?

I’d offer to buy, but… She shrugged with an uncomfortable laugh.

No, it’s my pleasure. I’ll be right back. As he left on his mission, Faith thought about what a trusting guy he was, letting a stranger hang out in his vehicle with the keys like that. So she snooped, hoping to find some clues about him, but all she discovered was that he was very neat. No trash or papers anywhere, not like her car at all.

Once he returned, the questions started. So, what does Faith do for a living? he asked.

She took a slice of pizza as she answered, Faith is a work-at-home digital designer.

Nice. Working in your pajamas sounds great! He took a piece for himself. Are you your own boss or do you answer to the man?

I answer to me. What about you? What does Lucas do?

Lucas isn’t as lucky as Faith… he has to put real clothes on, head to the office each day, and do what he is told. He changed his tone to a less stiff one. I work for a software company writing code for phone applications. It’s not too terribly exciting, but it pays the bills and I don’t mind it.

Faith’s eyes drank him in. His slightly curly hair was short but long enough to style, which he took the time to do. His skin was tan, probably naturally, considering it was the dead of winter. His smile was one of his most winning features, but what really struck her was a sexy dimple, which only made an appearance when he smiled a certain way. An extremely likable and gentle nature surrounded him. A smooth, soft tone mixed with confident, controlled mannerisms.

He noticed her staring at him and paused, revealing that sexy dimple with a smile.

Embarrassed to be caught, she briefly averted her eyes.

Tell me about yourself, Faith.

She wasn’t sure where to start. I’m a hometown girl, lived here in Fitchville most of my life. I live just down the road from my parents, and I’m an only child. I went to art school in Georgia, which I loved because it got me away from the extreme weather. But as much as I hate the winter, something about it draws me in. I feel like there’s this strange connection everyone in the cold Midwest has with each other. We all know what it’s like to survive in the snow and ice, and that bonds the region together somehow. It’s comforting in a strange way. That probably sounds weird, but that’s how I feel.

No, I totally get that.

What about you? What’s your story?

I grew up in Chicago, only moved here a few years ago for my job. I like Fitchville, but it’s a bit inclusive. I have a younger sister and my parents divorced when I was fairly young. My father passed away a few years ago, but to be honest, I didn’t know him well. My childhood was riddled with trips back and forth and parental manipulations. I tell you, having lived through that, I would never do that to my children… if I ever have any. When I get married, it’s gonna be for the long haul. Whatever it takes to stay together, that’s what I’ll do. End of story.

What? A man who knows what commitment means? No way! "So I’m going out on a limb to say you want a family when you grow up."

When I grow up? That’s funny! I think I might already be there. I got my first grey hair at twenty-two, and I’m pretty sure it had my mother’s name all over it.

I’m well aware of the effects a mother can have on hair roots.

Their eyes met for a moment before she broke the connection. Do you have a girlfriend?

He shook his head. No. My last relationship ended when I moved here. She wanted to get married but I wasn’t ready.

Ah. A heartbreaker.

No. We weren’t a good match. We stayed together longer than we should have. What about you? I know someone as pretty as you has a boyfriend.

She had to giggle. Most of the guys in town knew of her because of her mental disorder, so they steered clear, not wanting to be involved with someone so damaged. No. I haven’t met anyone worth my time. I don’t get out much.

This must be my lucky night then.

She peeked at him. Is he flirting with me?

What does Faith like to do in her spare time?

I’m pretty boring. I like to read, and in the warmer times of the year, I jog. I don’t know. My life isn’t all that interesting. What about you?

A runner, huh?

I wouldn’t call myself a runner… I jog… slowly. You can probably walk faster than I run.

His laugh was pleasant to listen to. Running isn’t easy though, so no matter how slow you are, it’s an accomplishment. Me, I go to the gym almost every morning. I like to socialize with my friends over a few beers now and then. I like to stay active… biking, hiking, skiing.

Busy man. I’m not nearly as social. She glared at her hands. I don’t really like people very much.

Why’s that?

She peered at him, knowing there wasn’t a way to explain without telling him about her mental disorder, but this wasn’t the time. I don’t know. I’m a loner… an awkward type.

He smiled genuinely. You don’t look awkward to me.

What a nice thing to say. Well, thanks. Her hands held her attention again.

When they finished eating, the clock revealed almost an hour had passed. With their conversation at a pause, it appeared to be a good time to make her exit. I better let you get back to your Friday night. Thanks for the pizza and the pleasant conversation. It was nice.

His dimple made another appearance. Oh, he is handsome. I hope he asks for my…

Why don’t you give me your number and maybe we can talk again, if you want.

Yes! Sure. Calmly, she gave him her number as he pressed buttons on his phone.

He called her immediately. Now you have my number too.

She swiped the front of her phone to make it stop ringing and then stored the number with his name.

He was busy typing, so she sat in silence, awaiting his attention again.

A notification lit up her phone; a text from Lucas.

L: I don’t want to say goodbye yet

She felt the same and returned the sentiment.

F: Me neither.

It was hard not to laugh at the ridiculous texting.

L: What are we going to do about that?

She shrugged. I don’t know. Without thinking, an idea spouted out. Why don’t we go over to my place? We could get a movie or just sit and talk.

Only if you’re totally okay with it. I don’t want you to feel weird about inviting a stranger into your home.

She typed another message.

F: I’m okay with it, just promise you won’t stab me with a fork

He seemed amused. I promise. I’m not really a fork-wielding kind of guy.

Okay. I live over by the dog park if you know where that is.

Yes, I do. He put the truck in drive and off they went.

She invited him into her apartment, thankful that she’d cleaned that morning. It was a small one-bedroom with an enclosed kitchen and a large room that was both the dining room and living room. The bathroom had two entrances, one from the hall and one from her bedroom. It was a small living space, but it was everything she needed.

Would you like a drink? I have lemonade and tea or some red wine if you’re up for that.

He came in slowly, taking in his surroundings. He started to remove his coat. Sure. You choose. She disappeared into the kitchen. She heard him shout from the living room, Hey, you like to play cards?

Yes, she shouted back.

He appeared in the kitchen doorway with the deck of cards from her coffee table in his hands. Ever played Bullshit?

She was pouring them both a glass of wine and laughed. Oh yes! I am the queen of Bullshit. Realizing how funny her response sounded, she glared at him. That is totally not what I meant.

He laughed. Oh no, you can’t take it back now! Ms. Queen of Bullshit.

That’s it, you’re going down!

They went to the dining room table. He sat at the end of the table and she sat on the side. Prepare to lose, she said playfully as he dealt the cards. A sip of wine relaxed her.

He was a formidable opponent and they played round after round, laughing hysterically at each other. Every time they touched, it felt as though lightning had struck. She wondered if he felt it too.

She noticed him scooting his chair towards her slowly, and he was touching her leg with his. Perhaps that was a sign… perhaps it was just a coincidence.

She looked at the clock and realized it was almost one a.m. Wow, it’s late. You should probably take me back to my car. She started to stack the cards.

He placed his hand on hers. I have a confession, Faith.

She flipped her hand over so their palms were touching lightly. His fingers began to dance with hers. Electricity pulsed. What’s that?

He looked at their hands before speaking and took his time to reply. I am very, very, extremely attracted to you.

No one had ever said anything like that to her before. Excitement coursed through her veins even as she attempted to play it cool. It felt like a significant moment, so she took her time to respond.

SATURDAY, EARLY MORNING, DAY 2

SILENCE FILLED THE room as she took in the moment. Honesty leaped from her lips, unable to be held back. I‘m quite attracted to you, too.

His hand closed around hers as that dimple stole her breath. Come here, he said, gently pulling her arm. He sat her sideways on his lap, guided her face towards his, and kissed her lightly.

A fuse lit within her heart the moment their lips touched. She closed her eyes and a few kisses later, he opened his mouth. Stop thinking and enjoy these moments of affection from this absolutely gorgeous man, Faith!

Their kisses intensified as his hand travelled up and down her back. Opening her eyes, she pulled away for a moment. She swung her leg over his and then sat on his lap, straddling him. He smiled briefly at the position adjustment as she feverishly dove into another deep kiss.

Never in her life had she felt this kind of fire. She liked her new medication—and this handsome stranger. They kissed for a long while.

Completely turned on, she wanted more. In her twenty-eight years of life, no one had ever worked her up like this. It was a totally new pleasure, and it had her sensibilities off kilter. Their kissing slowed then stopped. They stared into each other’s eyes. She took a deep breath and bit her lip, thinking over the current situation.

After gazing back and forth between his gorgeous hazel eyes, Faith stood, taking his hand in hers. Come here. She slowly stepped back towards her room.

She lead him down the hall, and once at the foot of her bed, she wrapped her arms around his neck.

He placed his hands on her hips, pulled her body to his, and kissed her.

She spoke between kisses, I don’t normally do things like this. Like… never. She started to pull his shirt off.

Me neither, he replied, pulling hers up as well.

His bare chest was gorgeous, with hard, defined muscles screaming to be touched. He removed her bra as she whispered, You have to be nice to me. I’m kind of a novice.

Don’t worry; I plan on being very nice to you.

They finished undressing each other while kissing, then he lay her on the bed. He hovered over her. Do you have any protection?

That thought hadn’t cross her mind at all. No. I’m sorry, I don’t.

I think I have one in my wallet.

God, I hope so, she said.

He smiled. Let me check. Don’t go anywhere.

As if I would.

He left her momentarily, then returned with a smile and a kiss. I knew I’d be glad I had this one day.

You’re a smart man.

And you are a beautiful woman.

No need to flatter, I think you’re already in with me.

Not flattery, truth.

He took care of the protection business quickly then returned to her lips.

Her heart raced in her chest. Was she really doing this? It had been a long time and she was nervous of pain or worse. What if she was bad at it? Fortunately, her passion overrode her fear. She reminded him in a sexy whisper, Don’t forget to be nice to me.

His touch was compassionate as he brushed her hair gently to the side of her face. We don’t have to. We can stop before we even start. It’s okay.

Ugh. A nice guy statement. No. I don’t want to stop. Do you?

He grinned. Oh God, no, but…

She pulled him in for a kiss before another word could be uttered.

Are you sure?

Bring it, she replied, heart still racing.

He sunk himself into her, causing her to gasp loudly. There was some pain but it was temporary. He moved his body gently, watching her face. Are you okay?

Yeah, I’m okay.

He stared into her eyes as if to make sure.

I’m good… really good, she said as pleasure washed over her. His gentle yet firm touch felt amazing. I have to say, you are being very good to me. Her smile widened. Damn, incredibly good.

He grinned proudly, continuing his pursuit of pleasuring her. I have a good partner.

No, it’s all you. Trust me.

Just relax and enjoy. I want to make you feel amazing.

Her eyes closed. Oh, you are.

He shushed her sweetly, reminding her to relax. She melted in his arms and went along with whatever he did. He pulled her knee up to the side of his chest and held it there. His strong hand felt magnetic on her leg, holding it right where he wanted it. The weight of his body made her weak in the heart. She felt surrounded. Surrounded by emotion and… love. Was this what love felt like? Having never loved a man before, she wondered if she might be there already? Surely not.

Suddenly, their kissing ceased as her body flooded with an amazing burst of emotion. Her head went back and her eyes closed as he began kissing her neck. Pleasure built within her core, causing a total loss of control. Oh God! she shouted, barely able to breathe as a flurry of delight pulsed through her. Slowly, the sensation faded and she opened her eyes to find him looking at her.

That’s exactly what I was going for. He smiled proudly and went back to her lips, hovering closely.

She crashed her lips into his forcefully. He pinned her down and quickened everything, even his kisses. He was intense and powerful, very different from the way he had begun so gently.

He pressed his face into the bed beside hers and turned towards her ear whispering, You feel so amazing to me. He moaned, indicating it was his turn. Faith grabbed on tight as he released himself slowly.

Stillness met them. Soon, he lifted his head to make eye contact. A gentle stroke to her face led to another kiss, after which he spoke, Amazing. Absolutely amazing. Thank you.

Yes, it was.

He kissed her again before rolling to her right to catch his breath. He took her hand in his and kissed her fingers. That was a nice surprise ending to my day.

His words made her giggle.

Come here. He pulled her to him, wanting her head resting on his chest. His hand gently brushed her hair. Was I good enough to you?

Holy crap, yes! I’d say so. Now you can pass out.

He chuckled slightly.

Isn’t that the way it works? Men always fall asleep right after sex.

I suppose it is. It’s because if we have done our job properly, we are exhausted. He kissed her forehead. Would you like to have a conversation about how to end world hunger instead?

She giggled again. No.

Good. Not sure I could handle that right now.

After a short silence, she spoke, By the way, you can spend the night.

His chest shook as he laughed. Oh, thanks. I was wondering if you were going to kick me out when you were done with me.

I’ll let you stay, just this once.

Thanks, you are so very kind.

She lifted her head, looking up to find him smiling just as she was. Did that really just happen? she asked.

Why yes, I believe it did. He guided her mouth to his for a kiss. Thank you.

She rested her head on his chest again. No, thank you.

He sat up. Excuse me for a moment. I’ll be right back.

Faith threw herself back on the bed staring at the ceiling as he went to her bathroom. What the hell did you just do, Faith? Her hands covered her face, embarrassed.

God, you are beautiful… He said as he slid back into bed, bringing another smile to her lips. His chest went to hers as did his lips, his hands combing through her hair.

I’m the luckiest girl on the planet right now.

What are you thinking? he asked. He sounded concerned.

Intense eye contact and a grin made his apprehension disappear and his dimple reappear. I’m equally enamored with you. I mean, I did just have sex with you.

Yes, you did.

Her heart fluttered. Damn he was sexy.

There’s nothing like a warm male hand on a girl’s naked belly to remind her she’s not alone in bed. She peeked over at him as he whispered, Hey beautiful. Her alarm clock showed 4:00 a.m.

Hey. She snuggled into his chest as his strong arms wrapped around her. She felt his hand gently caressing the back of her head and it made her tingle all over. I’m glad you’re still here. I thought you might sneak out once I fell asleep.

I’m not going anywhere. He lifted her chin to kiss her. One gentle kiss turned into another, then another. Their mouths opened at the same time and their tongues began to intertwine.

A rush of emotion hit her chest as she threw her leg over his body. His nakedness was inviting, making her intensely aware of his every touch.

As their passion built, he rolled his body on hers. Chest on chest, she looked into his eyes, wondering what they were going to do about their protection problem. If only she kept something on hand for just this occasion. But nothing like this was supposed to happen to her.

He slowed their make out. We should probably stop.

Her heart ached at the thought. But… I want you.

Oh God, I want you too, but…

She interrupted him with a kiss and wrapped her legs around him.

You’re sure? he asked.

She nodded. If you are, yes.

With those simple words, round two began. We are stupid, you know that?

It felt even more amazing than the first time. Oh, but stupid feels incredible. She moaned.

Yes. Yes, it does. Just want you to know I’m clean. I’ve been tested.

Me too. She arched her back as he pulled himself towards her. He straightened his arms, pushing his upper body above her. Both her hands reached for his incredible chest. She ran them across his pecs and closed her eyes, feeling pure pleasure as their bodies moved against each other. She could tell he truly wanted to make her feel as good as he did.

He slowly pressed his chest against hers and began kissing the area around her left ear. He whispered, You doing okay?

She turned her face towards him and lightly bit his ear. I’m wonderful. How about you?

Never been better, he replied softly then dove into her mouth with intensity.

He was certainly amazing. It was hard to believe they had just met.

He released her from his grasp then went to his knees. He lifted her, pressing her against the headboard. Like putty in his hands, she went along for the ride. He held her in place with his strong arms and he brought himself towards her from beneath.

Damn, he knows what he’s doing.

Intensity began to build in her body and she knew she was getting close to losing control of herself. Placing her head on his shoulder, it began to wash over her. She heard him sigh, and knew he was there too. Concerned he might stop, Faith grabbed on tight, not giving him the choice. In that moment, she didn’t care about their lack of protection at all; the only thing on her mind was giving him something incredible to remember.

They gasped together, clinging, feeling pleasure wash over them at the same time.

When it was done, they became still and held each other as the silence of the room and their heavy breathing became noticeable.

After a few moments, he lay her down then placed himself next to her, taking her hand in his. Her head went on his chest and his arms wrapped around her. That was by far the best sex I have ever had, he said.

It was true for her too, but that was no shock.

His hand brushed her hair away from her face. Thank you. He kissed the top of her head.

Do you always say that after sex?

When it’s that good, yes. It’s only polite.

Aw, your mother raised you right. She should be very proud.

He laughed really hard. If you knew my mother you’d be laughing as hard as I am.

Her heart soared, wishing they could stay like this forever. He was incredible.

Snuggling into him, she closed her eyes. Tiredness was creeping in. You’re not going to sneak out on me, are you?

Both arms went around her as he kissed her forehead then closed his eyes. Not a chance. I kinda like you.

Kinda, huh? I’d hate to see what you do to women you really like a lot.

I say ‘thank you’ twice.

A laugh burst from her mouth. Maybe someday I’ll be that lucky.

Maybe.

SATURDAY MORNING, DAY 2

THE MORNING SUN woke her. The blankets slid off her naked chest as she rose, causing her to notice her lack of clothing immediately. She remembered again that she was not alone. Looking down at her sleeping companion, memories washed over her and she couldn’t help but smile. Was this real? Had she really just slept with this guy she barely knew? Had they really just had the most amazing sexual experience of their lives together? She slid to the edge of her bed and got out. She pulled a t-shirt from her drawer and put it on as she went to the bathroom and closed the door. The mirror didn’t lie. Yes, this was real. She combed her hair and then splashed cold water on her face.

Wiping her face with a fresh towel, a sobering thought occurred to her. Had he just used her? What if he left and she never saw him again? Her heart leaped in her chest, and it hurt. Only two seconds separated the feeling of being totally satisfied and being completely scared to death. This drastic emotional change made her realize she had not taken her medicine before bed. Taking her pills on time was very important.

Disappointed in herself, she shoved the pills into her mouth and swallowed. Facing him now would not be easy. She realized in that moment why they called it a walk of shame.

He was sitting on the bed already wearing his jeans, sliding his shirt over his head. He stood with a smile and walked towards her. Good morning, beautiful. He kissed her forehead.

That was a nice greeting, or maybe he just didn’t remember her name. A kiss on the lips preceded a request to use her bathroom. She nodded, and he went in, closing the door behind him.

Alone in her room, she dressed in fresh clothes.

She went to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee.

He joined her, leaning against the counter. Anderson.

She looked at him confused.

Lucas Anderson… I thought you might want to know my last name.

She nearly melted at his dimple. Oh. Good to know. Mine is Quinn.

Faith Quinn is a pretty name.

He had remembered her name. Thank you. She poured coffee for them both. How do you take it?

Cream and sugar.

Me too. It’s good to know we have at least one thing in common. Her tone revealed her embarrassment. What? she asked, feeling self-conscious as he stared at her.

I’m just enjoying the view. You really are beautiful.

Shaking her head, she chuckled. Even with morning hair?

He reached for her hand. Especially with morning hair. You see, if I’m privy to morning hair, that means I got to help make the morning hair. He pulled her towards him. I’m going to kiss you. Is that okay with you? His hands went to her waist.

Silence was her answer.

I hope you don’t feel too weird about what happened last night. I meant it when I said I don’t normally do things like that. It wasn’t a line. He looked

Reviews for 30 Below

[lizarobbins · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow. 30 Below is a powerful book! In real life, there are no do-overs. In fiction, however, anything is possible. This book illustrates the difference between doing things the easy way and doing them the right way. Strong Christian values make all the differences in this budding romance between a handsome videogame designer and a beautiful graphic artist. He has a past he's not too proud of, and she has a mental time-bomb in her brain. All of this takes place in a small town riddled with judgmental people and ridiculous snobs. I think this book has succeeded in giving the world something of value, and enjoyed it a lot. 18+ for steamy sex. Christian values are presented, but not preached at you. Loved it!