Unfreezing Lucy

By Kim Cleary

Lucy has everything under control.

If she doesn't care, she can't get hurt.

But, when the ship's attractive and attentive engineer disappears, comfortably numb isn't an option any more.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Raven's Lair Publishing
• Release date: Jan 23, 2018
• ISBN: 9781386785439

Kim Cleary

Kim Cleary is the award-winning author of Path Unchosen, the first title in the Daughter of Ravenswood series, which earned a bronze IPPY award in 2015. She grew up in Birmingham, United Kingdom, studied medieval history and psychology at Adelaide University in Southern Australia, and has worked all over Australia and in London. Forced to leave a successful career in marketing after multiple sclerosis damaged her hands and prevented her from typing, Kim learned how to write using voice software. A self-described chocoholic, Kim loves writing, gardening, cooking, playing with her dogs, and spending time with friends. She lives with her husband and two dogs, an adorable Cocker Spaniel and a mischievous Moodle, in Melbourne, Australia.

Book preview

Chapter One

‘I don’t do sex.’ I flicked a glance at Chief Engineer Simon Dubois before turning my attention back to the screen login.

‘Good morning, Lucy Wilks,’ the computer chirped.

The mellow light on the spaceship’s maintenance deck flickered. Simon’s eyes glowed, a seductive silkiness drew me in, but my mind pulled me back.

He lifted his palms. ‘I said dinner. Did I mention sex?’

‘You’re a man.’ I leaned closer. He mirrored my stance. My rebellious body quivered until I regained control. ‘It’s always on your mind,’ I whispered.

He shook his head, but a smile curved his mouth. ‘You can be such a chauvinist—’

‘This conduit won’t build itself.’ Jenny, my best friend and day supervisor on our ship, Phobos, jabbed a finger into my arm. ‘Flirt on your own time.’

‘Flirt!’ Simon brushed his hands down his tunic, strode away and shouted over his shoulder. ‘I’ll grab the connector.’

‘It’s my turn,’ I called after him.

He waved, but continued his strides to the end of the pipe. He pulled the heavy protective tunic over his head. His t-shirt rolled up and tight muscles worked in his abdomen as he wriggled into the cramped space. He twisted to reach something, a sheen built on the small of his back.

Concentrate.

It was just like Simon to save me from doing the dirtiest task, even though I’d just rejected his dinner invitation. I stared at gossamer-fine carbon nanotubes entwining into place. Tried to focus on the