Matters of the Heart: The Windy City Hart Series

By Eboni Heart

The elusive ladies man, Deon Hart, finally encounters the one woman that wont give him the time of day. Hes befuddled by just how the thought of her makes him come alive. So when the opportunity presents itself, he devises a plan to hopefully win her over.

The heartache that Indya Farrow endured at the hands of her ex-fianc; has closed her off from any and all relationships. Even though she yearns for Deons touch, she cant allow him to break down her defenses; otherwise he might discover her well hidden secret.

Once her secret is out, will their love affair be over before it even begins?

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Aug 22, 2014
• ISBN: 9781496934017

Eboni Heart

Born and raised in Chicago, Eboni Heart has enjoyed a lifelong passion for the written word. A romantic at heart, she lives for the happily-ever-after conclusions. Eboni has a wide range of outside interests, including crocheting, graphic designing, and listening to all types of music. Being the huge sports fan she is, she never misses a game when it comes to her beloved Bears and Bulls. Nevertheless, her most treasured moments are spending time with the loves of her life—her great niece and nephew, Jada and Darius Jr., aka “the Deej.”

Book preview

Matters of the Heart

Eboni Heart

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AuthorHouse™ LLC

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© 2014 Eboni Heart. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 08/18/2014

ISBN: 978-1-4969-3402-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4969-3403-1 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4969-3401-7 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014914949

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and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

KJV

Scripture quotations marked KJV are from the Holy Bible, King James Version (Authorized Version). First published in 1611. Quoted from the KJV Classic Reference Bible, Copyright © 1983 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

(1st Thessalonians 5:18)

In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Chapter One

What’s up with you, bro? You’ve been in a bad mood ever since you got here.

I got a lot on my mind.

You wanna talk about it?

Nah…I’m good.

That depends on who you ask. Cause if you ask me you’re far from it. You were off your game today, bruh. Something’s got you on edge and it’s obviously getting to you.

You’re a happily married man so maybe you could give me some advice.

That’s what big brothers are for. What’s the problem?

Okay…there’s this girl at work…

I should have known. You must have blown her off and now she’s stalking you.

"That’s just the problem. All we’ve ever done is the cursory nod or the fake ‘how you doin’ smile and keep it moving."

You mean to tell me that the infamous Deon Hart is having problems snagging a woman? What is the world coming to?

I knew this was a waste of time. Just forget it.

You know I’m just kidding around. Seriously…talk to me.

Her name is Indya Farrow and she’s hot. She has this big beautiful smile and her backside ain’t nothing nice. She’s the kinda woman you don’t mind saying hi or bye to.

So a big butt and a smile got you trippin, huh? So what’s the problem?

She started in my department more two years ago but I don’t quite get her.

What is it that you don’t get?

The problem is every time I try to start a conversation with her she finds an excuse to run away. It’s like I got halitosis to the tenth power or something.

Your breath can be offensive at times, Derek teased.

Shut up, fool. I need your advice…not your insults.

I’m sorry…I couldn’t resist that one, Derek laughed louder. Okay…okay…go on with the story.

If you saw her you’d know why I’m tripping.

Have you ever considered she just might not be into you?

Nope…that’s not it.

Then have you considered the possibility she might already have a man?

That’s not it, either.

And how do you know this?

She showed up at the holiday party with her female cousin who also happens to work for the firm. If she had a man I’m sure her cousin wouldn’t have been her date.

Just because she came with her cousin doesn’t mean anything. Her boyfriend could have been out of town on business.

I asked around and I was told she’s not seeing anybody.

So if that’s the case then why do you think she’s not feeling you?

Gee, Sherlock. If I knew the answer do you think I would have bothered asking you?

Hey…don’t get salty at me. While I’m sitting here with you I could be at home getting some love from my wife.

I’m trying to be serious and all you got is jokes. Look…I’ve done everything I can to get this girl to notice me; but I’ve struck out on every turn.

Okay…here’s what you can do. You know that Harts for Hearts All Red Ball that Dani and Kaliya are putting together?

Yeah…what about it?

Why don’t you find a way to get her to come so you can get her in a more casual setting?

We were at the holiday party together and that didn’t seem to help.

That’s just the point. It was still work related. She can’t let her inner freak out in front of the big wigs. But if no one from the office is there she might loosen up.

Okay genius…how do you propose I get her to come to the ball? We can’t be in the same room for more than five minutes before she’s jetting off in the other direction.

"You’re one of the junior partners, right?

Yeah…and…?

"So be resourceful and do something creative like raffle off some free tickets. You can send out an email blast to all the employees and have everyone who’s interested reply back. Then you can say something like we’re raffling off a set of tickets to the Harts for Hearts All Red Ball and the winner will be announced at…let’s say four o’clock this afternoon. Then you can fix it so she’s the winner. Problem solved and nobody’s the wiser."

I think you might be on to something. But there are a couple of holes in this theory.

Like what for instance?

For one…what if she doesn’t reply to the email? And two…what if she brings some dude with her?

Hey…you asked me to get you the keys to the car. It ain’t my fault if you don’t know how to drive it.

I’m serious, Bro.

This girl’s backside must be rolling like a caboose for you to be tripping like this. Or is it because she’s not sweating you that’s got your boxers in a bunch?

I’m not that vain.

Um hmm…and water ain’t wet. Who do you think you’re fooling? You forget that I know you, little brother. You hate it when things don’t go your way. That’s your biggest problem. You act like it’s your natural born right to have whatever you want. But life doesn’t work that way. Do you know how many cheap dives and smoke filled rooms I had to endure before I got discovered? I had to bust my butt to get noticed. Even though I believed in myself it took years to catch a break. No one was just going to give me a contract. I had to get out there and earn it. That’s how it works in the real world.

You make it sound as if I’m some spoiled entitled playboy.

Those are your words, not mine.

I worked my fingers to the bone getting my college degree. Then I logged ten, twelve, sometimes all-nighters to make junior partner. No one gave me a free ride and I wasn’t expecting them to. I worked my tail off to get where I am, so don’t sit there acting like you’re the only one that’s had a hard time of it.

"That’s not the point I was trying to make. What I was trying to get across to you is all women aren’t impressed by your good looks. Just because you walk into a room you think they’re supposed to fall all over themselves to be with you. And now that a woman has the audacity to resist your charms you’re freaking out wondering what’s wrong with her."

But she won’t even give me the time of day.

So you’ll just have to devise a different approach. Show her the real human side of Deon Hart. Tone down the arrogance and throw on the garment of humility. Let her see the loving side I know is in there somewhere.

Maybe you’re right. I just don’t have the first clue where to start.

You’re a smart guy. Give it some thought and I’m sure you’ll come up with something. Now I’m about to hit the shower so I can head home.

You make it sound like having a family is the next best thing to Clara’s cooking.

Not even Clara’s cooking compares to Kaliya and the kids. But if you repeat what I said I’ll deny it til I’m blue in the face. How about you come back to the house and spend some time with your niece and nephew? You haven’t been by to see them all week.

I might as well since I don’t have anything better to do.

Gee…you said that like I’m asking you to visit the seeds of Chucky or something.

Don’t even try it. You know how much I love those kids. Little Dorian reminds me of me at that age.

There you go making it about you again. He’s my son but you want to take all the credit, Derek laughed while shaking his head.

* * *

Daddy, you’re looking mighty spiffy. Got your hair lined up real nice and you smell good enough to eat. I hope you didn’t get all dapper just so Dorian can spit up on you.

I might be going out a little later.

I hope you’re not going alone.

No…I won’t be alone.

Then who are you going with?

Are you my daughter or my guardian?

Can’t I be concerned about you?

By all means, but that doesn’t mean you have to know what I’m doing every minute of the day. Now where are my angels?

Brooklyn is in the screening room watching Despicable Me 2 for the gazillionth time. And Dorian is upstairs taking a nap.

I assume Derek is in the studio working on his music.

He’s actually at the gym playing basketball with Deon.

Sorry I missed out. It’s been a while since I worked up a good sweat.

Keep looking as good as you have and that soon might change.

So how was I looking before?

I didn’t mean anything derogatory. It’s just that you’ve been looking so much nicer lately…that’s all I was trying to say. Quickly changing the subject, Kaliya said, Don’t you have a seminar coming up in Atlanta soon?

I confirmed my flight this morning.

How long will you be gone?

I’ll be back on Friday.

I know the kids will miss you.

That’s why I shot plenty of videos on my phone so I can watch them anytime I want.

That was a great idea.

Where is everybody? Dani yelled.

We’re in the sunroom, Kaliya yelled back.

When Dani walked into the room, Craig said, Don’t you look nice? Where are you going?

I actually just got back from meeting with the caterers for the ball. So I came over to discuss the details with Kaliya.

How are plans for the wedding coming along? Craig asked.

Adrienne is doing an amazing job. I’m so glad you recommended her.

I might be biased but she’s phenomenal when it comes to planning major events.

What surprises me the most is how she’s handling our wedding and the ball at the same time. She’s on top of those vendors like nobody’s business. And for her to be doing it from Baltimore is what really amazes me.

When I spoke with her the other day she told me that she’ll be heading to town to finalize a few details. With the ball just a few weeks away she wants to make sure everything is going according to plan.

We only met once but I could tell she’s not someone you want to mess with, Dani laughed.

She’s always been a go getter. But you’d never know by looking at her how she overcame such dire odds as a cancer survivor. I guess that’s why she’s so driven. After surviving what so many have died from, Adrienne doesn’t let any grass grow under her feet.

When is Josh due back in town? Kaliya asked.

He’s taking the red eye from San Francisco Friday night. Then he’ll be staying put.

I’ll bet you can’t wait until he’s here for good.

You have no idea. Besides, we have to do another walkthrough of the house before closing next week.

So you’ve had all the inspections and the renovations done?

That’s what I was told. But we’ll know for sure after the walkthrough.

I’m so proud of you guys, Craig smiled. I remember having to talk him into going over to speak. And now you’re about to be married.

I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done to bring us together. I never knew that loving someone could be this wonderful.

I was more than happy to help.

Now that you’ve hooked Josh and Dani up maybe you can find someone for yourself, Kaliya teased.

Yeah, Craig…what’s up with that? A distinguished, handsome man like yourself should be out there finding your good thing. Shoot…if I wasn’t in love with Josh I’d be on you like a fat kid chasing after the ice cream truck. Laughing at Dani’s comment, Craig said, Why is it when people are in love they think everyone else should be, too?

I could understand if you were broken down, busted and disgusted. But you got it going on. What woman in her right mind wouldn’t want to be with you?

I don’t know about all that but thanks for the endorsement. While listening to Dani and Kaliya discuss details about the ball, Craig’s phone beeped. After viewing the text, he said, Tell Brooklyn that I’ll see her later this evening or more likely tomorrow.

But you just got here, Kaliya frowned.

I’m going to meet up with that friend I told you about. Kissing Kaliya on the cheek, Craig said, I’ll see you later, baby girl. Not wasting any time, he headed out the door. The moment it was closed, Kaliya started clapping and laughing out loud.

What in the world is wrong with you?

Daddy doesn’t want me to know it but I’ll bet you a trip to the spa that text was from Tiffany.

What makes you so sure it was Tiffany?

Ever since New Year’s Eve, Daddy hasn’t missed a day coming over. And he’s making an extra effort to look nice. I was teasing him about it just before you arrived.

So you really think some hanky panky is going on between those two?

I’d bet my shoe collection on it. I’ve also noticed her sprucing up a little more herself.

So if they are dating, why do you think they’re keeping it a secret?

You of all people have the nerve to ask that question?

Whatever. I for one don’t see a problem with it. She’s divorced and he’s never been married, so why do you think they’re hiding their affair?

I wish I knew but I sure plan on finding out.

Well, look here Sherlock…just don’t ruin this for Craig. He’s been alone for far too long, and if he’s trying to get his mojo back then so be it.

Don’t forget it was my idea to hook them up in the first place. She’s perfect for Daddy.

But what if it wasn’t Tiffany that texted him?

I’m pretty sure it was her. Besides, when would he have time to meet anyone when he’s always here?

You might be right. But I have a surefire way to find out.

And how is that?

I’ll ask Josh.

And you think he’ll tell you?

If I put it on him just right he’ll sing like a mocking bird. As the women laughed, Derek and Deon walked through the door.

Chapter Two

I really like your home, Tiffany. How long have you lived here?

I’ve been here for nearly twenty-five years. For my fiftieth birthday my children got together and hired a contractor to renovate the entire house. I had to live with my daughter and her family for nine months until it was completed.

Well they did a wonderful job. Maybe you can give me the grand tour sometime.

"I think that can be arranged. I hope you’re hungry because I still haven’t mastered the skill of how not to cook more than I should."

It smells delicious. I’m sure I’ll enjoy it.

I hope so.

I’m sure I will. So tell me who’s who in these pictures. Feeling a bit nervous about having Craig in her home, Tiffany walked over to point out her children and grandchildren. When the timer went off, she excused herself to check on dinner.

Satisfied that it was ready, she called for Craig to join her. With the table already set, Tiffany offered him a seat while she placed the dish on the table.

What would you prefer to drink? I have wine, beer, coffee, soda, water, tea…

All of it sounds good but water will be fine.

"Then water it is. After removing the cap, Tiffany poured the water in a glass for Craig. Then she poured a glass for herself.

Could you pass me your plate, please? Happy to do so, Craig handed it over. He didn’t know what it was but it sure smelled delicious. Smiling as she passed the plate back to Craig, Tiffany then filled her own.

Would you mind saying grace? she asked.

I’d be happy to. After grace Tiffany said, Feel free to let me know if you’d like something else. This happens to be one of my son’s favorite dishes.

What is it? It smells absolutely amazing.

It’s one of those happy accidents that mothers stumble across when trying to keep the meals interesting. My kids were tiring of the predictable meatloaf and mash potatoes, so one afternoon I got desperate and just started tossing stuff in a pot. Then lo and behold a new fan favorite was born.

Well, let me investigate the matter to make sure it tastes as good as it smells. After taking a bite, Craig’s eyes rolled to the back of his head. My, my, my…this is delicious. What do you call it?

I call it greens au gratin. It’s a combination of collard greens, smoked and turkey sausage, chopped onions, some spices and of course a ton of cheese. Then I finish it off by pouring the cornbread mixture on top to allow it to bake together. And that’s how greens au gratin was born.

All I have to say is I’m glad your kids got tired of meatloaf and mash potatoes.

There’s plenty if you’d like more.

Looking at Tiffany had become one of Craig’s greatest pastimes. Although she didn’t wear a stitch of makeup, her natural beauty simply took his breath away. It had been too many years to count since a woman held his attention to this extent. But now that his interest had peaked, Craig had every intention of seeing this through til the end.

So…how do you like working with Tina?

She’s such a sweetheart. Actually everyone in the family has been so sweet and kind that I truly enjoy going to work.

How much longer will you be working with her?

Although she’s made tremendous strides, she still has a long way to go.

What will you do once your assignment is up?

I’ll contact the agency to find out if there’s another patient needing my services. Then they’ll put me in contact with the family to discuss the patient’s needs.

Do you ever take breaks between assignments?

I usually take time off during the summer to visit my youngest daughter and her family in Florida. We usually spend the holidays here. But unfortunately since my daughter-in-law lost her mother, my son and his family spent the holidays with her dad.

That’s perfectly understandable. I assume that’s why you were able to join us this year?

Yes it was.

So what do you do outside of work?

I love to golf whenever I can.

You’re kidding!

No…it’s true. I even have my own clubs.`

I’ve always enjoyed watching but never seriously considered playing.

I think you’d like it. But I must warn you, it can be addictive. My ex started golfing shortly after completing his residency. So in order for us to spend time together outside of work, he talked me into going with him. I was hooked after the first day.

So your ex is a doctor?

Yes…he’s a cardiologist. I find it amusing how he cares so deeply for the hearts of his patients; yet he didn’t think twice about destroying mine.

What happened if you don’t mind my asking?

While my husband was away at a medical convention I received a call from his mistress. She called to inform me that Gerald had fathered her six year old son. Her exact words were she could no longer live with the guilt, so she felt I needed to know. Obviously she wanted Gerald to tell me for some time but he kept putting her off…or so she says. I guess she got tired of waiting so she took matters into her own hands.

What else did she say?

Oh…she pretended to be conflicted, but her intentions were obvious. Sadly, I couldn’t blame her because Gerald knew his status when they got involved.

So what did you do with the information?

Instead of going off, I asked if she had proof to back up her allegations.

And did she?

She asked if I had a fax machine so she could forward some papers to me. Lo and behold she sends years of cancelled checks with child support listed in the reference section.

Do you think they were forged?

My ex has the penmanship of a serial killer. No one could ever duplicate that chicken scratch.

So what did you do after seeing the checks?

I packed up all of his belongings and took them to the garage. Then I sent him an email letting him know that upon his return all the locks would be changed and he could collect his things from the garage.

What was his reaction?

He tried calling but I refused to talk to him.

How did you tell your children?

Gerald assumed I would tell them, but I wasn’t letting him off the hook that easily. He never would have told them had I not forced his hand. But once he did, they immediately lost respect for him. It was years before my son would even be in the same room with him.

I’m sure that must have been an awful time for you.

You have no clue. If it wasn’t for my faith keeping me sane I don’t know what I would have done. Everyone thought if we went to counseling it could help put our marriage back together. But once a sacred trust is broken, there is no going back for me. I gave him twenty years of my life only to have it thrown back in my face.

How is your relationship now?

It’s totally non-existent. As long as he sent the child support payments on time that’s all I cared about. And once the children were grown we were officially done.

Do you still see him?

Thankfully he moved out of state to take a top position at another hospital. We actually worked at the same hospital for years before we got divorced. But once word got out that he’d fathered a child outside of our marriage I couldn’t stay. And that’s when I decided to go into private duty. I was tired of the long hours and double sometimes triple shifts anyway. So when the opportunity came along I went for it.

After being betrayed like that how has it impacted your past relationships?

Quite negatively I’m sorry to say. It’s been thirteen years since our divorce but it seems like it was just yesterday. The thought of living that nightmare again is a risk I’m not willing to take.

Then why am I here?

I’ve been asking myself that same question. Ever since we met there’s been this pull between us. I’m no spring chicken, and after what I’ve been through I don’t want to play games. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t attracted to you.

I don’t want to play games, either. I’ve only loved one woman my entire life…and that was Kaliya’s mother. We met in college and fell madly in love. The only problem was her mother couldn’t stand my guts.

How old were you?

I was eighteen when we met, but we didn’t break up until my senior year. During that time, Flora found out she was pregnant. Unfortunately, after Kaliya was born, her mother badgered Flora to the point where she had no choice but to give in.

What happened after you broke up?

After graduation I moved back to Baltimore to pursue my love of writing. I spent a few years shopping my first novel until I finally caught a break. Then before I knew it my books were flying off the shelves and I couldn’t write fast enough.

What types of books do you write? I don’t recall ever seeing any of your work.

That’s because I write under a pseudonym. I write under the name of Sebastian Albright. I write mystery novels.

This can’t be happening. Moving away from the table, Tiffany left the room without saying a word. A few moments later she returned with two books in her hand. One was entitled ‘His Last Words,’ and the other was ‘The Blue Blood Diaries.’ Turning to the inside back cover, Tiffany looked at the picture then back at Craig.

It is you! I can’t believe that Sebastian Albright is sitting in my kitchen. My son got me hooked on your books years ago. These two are my all-time favorites.

Those are some of my best works. I’m glad you enjoyed them.

You’re a phenomenal writer. I feel so privileged to know you.

Would you like me to autograph them for you?

Would you? I mean if you don’t mind…

It would be my pleasure. Do you have a pen?

I have one right over here. Smiling as Craig autographed both of her books; Tiffany couldn’t believe that Sebastian Albright was actually sitting in her kitchen. She couldn’t wait to tell her son about this!

Now that dinner was over, Tiffany and Craig moved to the living room. Just as she was about to sit in the chair across from him, he said, Why don’t you come sit next to me?

Nervous but excited at the same time, Tiffany moved to sit next to Craig. Once she was seated, he placed his arm across the back of the sofa. Turning to look into her eyes he felt a fluttering in his chest that caused him to take a deep breath. Due to him feeling that special something he couldn’t quite explain; Craig felt the need to lay his cards on the table.

For more than thirty years I struggled with the fact that I abandoned my daughter and her mother. Even after I made a name for myself I still didn’t make an effort to find them. I justified my actions by telling myself that Flora had found someone else and was happy with her life. It wasn’t until a little more than a year ago I found out that wasn’t the case.

What happened?

To make a long story short, Flora neglected Kaliya and only tolerated her out of a sense of obligation. My daughter suffered at the hands of her mother as well as her mother’s family all because of me. I can’t tell you how deeply I regret not standing up to Flora’s mother. But now that Kaliya and I have resolved our differences we are in a good place. She and the kids will never have to worry about me leaving again.

You guys seem so close.

We are…and that’s why I’ve decided to slow down. I think I only wrote because I had nothing and no one important enough in my life to make me want to slow down. But now that I’ve reconnected with Kaliya all of that has changed. And since you and I have met I was hoping we could spend some time getting to know one another better.

I’m not sure if I’m ready for anything serious. Besides, it would be unprofessional not to mention unethical for me to become involved with a member of my patient’s family.

I won’t tell if you won’t. Seriously…it’s been thirteen years since your divorce. Through no fault of your own your marriage ended. But that doesn’t mean you should crawl beneath a rock and wilt away. You’re a very beautiful woman, Tiffany. And if we just take it one day at a time I think we can have something special.

Do you really think so? I mean…starting over again at my age isn’t something I contemplated.

Now that we’ve met, maybe you should give it some thought. Smiling into Tiffany’s eyes, Craig leaned forward to kiss her on the cheek. When she didn’t resist, he moved to the sensitive spot beneath her ear. When she still didn’t reject him, Craig looked into her eyes before hitting his target.

It had been so long that Tiffany wasn’t sure how to react. But if the truth be told, she was more attracted to Craig than she cared to admit. Before she could stop herself she’d wrapped her arms around his neck.

When the kiss ended, she placed her head between his head and shoulder to catch her breath. So…will you think about giving us a chance to find out where this can lead? You may not want to admit it but that kiss was quite telling. Your mouth says you’re not ready but your lips say we can do this.

Gazing into Craig’s eyes, Tiffany said, "I’m willing to give it a try only if you’re serious. Otherwise we can end this right here and now."

You can’t begin to know just how serious I am. I have a feeling we met at the right time in our lives. Now I truly understand what my grandmother meant when she said there are no coincidences. Desperate to taste of Tiffany’s delectable lips again, Craig lowered his head. Wanting Tiffany to think long and hard about what he’d said; Craig lifted her hand to his lips. As they stared into each other’s eyes, he whispered, I want to thank you for a wonderful evening. But it’s getting late and I don’t want to wear out my welcome. So I’m going to go now. Will you walk me to the door?

Nodding in agreement, they walked to the door in total silence. Just before turning the knob, Craig took Tiffany in his arms one last time. When they separated, he said, That was just a little something for you to think about while you’re lying in bed tonight.

And with that, he gave her a brief smile before walking out the door. Tiffany didn’t walk away until she heard his car drive off. Leaning against the door, she raised her fingers to her lips. Smiling to herself, she said, ‘out of all the people in the world to meet…you meet the man of your dreams who just happens to be one of your favorite authors. Is this crazy or what?’

While preparing for bed, Tiffany thought long and hard about the pros versus the cons. The pros were she’d have the opportunity to possibly find love again. It had been ages since a man made her heart go pitter patter. Not to mention his good likes, class and unique style. The cons were minimal but because she’d always held herself to a higher standard, Tiffany couldn’t dismiss her dis-ease about the situation.

Could she deny her feelings and just go on as if a spark hadn’t been lit between her and Craig? Would she allow her fear of intimacy to keep them from moving forward? Most importantly was it fair to lump all men into the same category with Gerald? Although he’d left an undeniable blemish on her heart, Tiffany was pretty sure Craig was the cure for all that ailed her. Now all she had to do was convince her heart to get with the program.

Chapter Three

Awakened from another recurring nightmare, Indya sat shaking in