Our Hill of Stars & Fireflies

By Kelly Brackett

"My heart raced in my chest and butterflies filled my stomach. I was nervous, excited, afraid, and giddy all at once."

"Our Hill Of Stars & Fireflies" is a poignant contemporary romance that delves into the depths of Lucia Rose's journey through depression following the heart-wrenching loss of her first love and her father. As she finds solace in a relationship with Trenton, her late boyfriend's best friend, fate intervenes when she encounters Maxwell Schlep, a captivating presence drawn to the haunting sadness in her eyes.

Convinced that Lucia is his destined soulmate, Maxwell embarks on a mission to rescue her from the clutches of an abusive partner. However, as Lucia grapples with the concept of a healthy relationship, the question remains: will Maxwell's efforts save her, or inadvertently drive her further into the arms of the man bent on breaking her?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kelly Brackett
• Release date: Sep 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223831372

Book preview

Prologue

My heart raced in my chest and butterflies filled my stomach. I was nervous, excited, afraid, and giddy all at once. My parents finally listened to me and I would go to a public high school this year. I would get to attend for junior year with my best friend and if it went well, my parents would let me graduate from there, too. But as soon as I took one step outside of the car, I wanted to turn back and run.

There were boys. Lots of them. I forgot about that fact, so I bit into my lip. Until a familiar head of blonde hair appeared. Amber was my best friend. She wore a bright smile, jeans, and a graphic tee with a rock band on them. A few guys were standing with her, but she shooed them away, her side ponytail shaking with her movements. Amber was also my polar opposite, despite us being from the same class.

You’re finally here! I waited for so long! She squealed, her excitement drawing the attention of a few nearby students. Convincing your parents was the hardest thing ever!

Yeah, we worked as a team for two years to convince them to let me go to a public high school. My parents hated the idea, not wanting me to suffer from the ‘normal’ teenager delusions, but I had to tell them it was part of how I wanted to learn. Experience. Everyone needed that much. But I was quickly regretting that decision. I glanced around at all the onlookers and tucked a stray lock of brown hair behind my ear.

But... can we maybe go somewhere quieter? I ventured, glancing around again, causing her to tilt her head in confusion. It’s a little awkward to stand here.

Fair! Come on, I’ll show you where our homeroom is. Amber stated, once realization dawned, she started gently pulling on my arm. Your outfit is cute, by the way!

Oh, thanks! We started walking towards the building, and I looked at the ground under my feet. I don’t look weird?

I picked blue denim plaid skorts and a pink graphic tee to wear today. It crossed my mind to dress nicely, despite Amber and my parents both encouraging me to wear what I was comfortable in. This outfit wasn’t much different from my usual clothing, though I normally wore jeans. I followed her into an almost empty classroom when it happened. He walked in.

I froze where I sat, unable to tear my gaze from him. He was tall, at least six foot one compared to my five foot eleven, but good-looking with shaggy brown hair and hidden green-colored eyes. As soon as his boyish face lifted and our eyes locked, he made a beeline straight for me with something akin to awe written on his features. He stopped in front of me, hand still extended before he dropped it, color flooding his cheeks.

I’m Davin Robertson. He introduced, taking my hand, his own feeling hot to the touch. It’s nice to meet you... Lulu... I mean, you’re Lucia, right?

As soon as our fingers touched, a shock ran up my arm, making me even more aware of him. I stared deep into those emerald orbs, completely losing myself as the world fell away. Who is he? The pads of his fingers were a little scratchy, the callused hands of a boy, and I inhaled sharply, taking in the scent of his cologne. My heart jumped into a run as he moved our hands in a shake, reminding me of where we were in an instant.

You can call me Lulu... and yes, I’m Lucia Rose. I stuttered, awkwardly returning the handshake. Wait, how did you know me?

Amber wouldn’t shut up about you, but it makes sense. You’re adorable. Davin smirked, leaning closer, which made my cheeks flood with heat. I wonder what you would do if I kissed you.

Kiss?! My head exploded with heat so hot I felt I would faint, and this stranger was talking about kissing? Amber smacked him on the back of the head before apologizing to me for his crude behavior and explaining he wasn’t normally like that. She started talking about the school, this class’s teacher, the students, and the latest gossip, but I could not hear her. Because I was hyperaware of Davin standing next to me.

Remember to breathe, I chided myself, when I felt his green eyes on me again. I could smell the cologne clinging to his skin, feel his gaze, burning a hole into the side of my face, and could practically reach out and touch him with how close he was. Amber kept talking, but nothing registered in my brain until the bell ringing snapped me out of my stupor. I quickly took a seat at the closest desk, still avoiding looking at Davin.

Lucia? the teacher asked, drawing my gaze up to the front. Lucia Rose?

That’s me! I raised my hand before shyly looking away, my hand falling back to my desk.

Would you like to introduce yourself?

It makes me a little uncomfortable. I replied honestly, glancing at everyone, and forcing myself to stand. But I will, I guess. My name is Lucia Rose, and I’ll be going to school here this year. It’s nice to meet you.

It was embarrassing to be the center of attention like that, so I quickly sat back down, cursing my luck. They had to call out the new student on their first day. Thankfully, the teacher moved on without pressing the issue, and I sighed in relief. I glanced to my left to find Davin sitting there, head resting against his fist, his green eyes focused entirely on me. I shifted nervously, turning my attention back to the front. The teacher opened with an introduction to the course, but a gaze burning into the side of my face had me fully dazed.

The slow tick of the clock echoed in my ears and my gray eyes were drawn to him again, only to find his focus still on me. It was a gaze that sent trails of fire across my skin, yet felt so tender I never wanted it to fade. Yet it also confused me. How could he make me feel like this just by watching me? Shouldn’t I find this creepy? But he was so gorgeous! Unable to stand it any longer, I raised my hand, hoping to distract from that gaze.

May I be excused? I need to use the restroom. I asked, and as soon as the teacher nodded. Thank you.

Yes, yes, go on. And Davin? Could you show her where to go? The teacher requested, making me scream internally. Since you seem more focused on her than school today, say what you need to. Just keep the lovey dovey stuff out of my classroom.

I wanted to escape everyone’s knowing gaze as soon as possible, so I practically ran when the door closed behind me. The childish part of me forced me to do it, I tried to convince myself as I ran through the hallways, my eyes on the walls, looking for any sign of the restroom. When I did not hear any footsteps behind me, I slowed my run, wanting to catch my breath to think. Who is he? What is wrong with him? What is wrong with me?!

You are a fast runner! Davin panted, leaning back as he wiped the sweat from his forehead, which seemed to enhance his cologne somehow. Yeesh, I had a hard time keeping up with you.

Uh... Um... I was panting too, barely able to breathe under the heat of his gaze.

Davin, remember? His tone questioning, a goofy grin spreading across his features before he leaned closer; that goofiness faded into an even more mature-looking smile, complete with a cute dip in his cheek. And you’re Lulu, in case you forgot.

Why could I barely breathe around him? I thought I didn’t hear anyone behind me! Could it be that he kept pace with me?! His head tilted a little, giving me a full view of his perfect teeth hidden behind even more perfect lips. This made my heart pound in my ears, and I pulled away a little, hoping to quell the flood of fire coursing through me all because of something so simple. What was wrong with me?

I hated it when people called me Lulu, yet the sound of his sweet tenor calling me that nickname made me let it go. Made me forget the hatred I carried for that nickname. And that dimple when he smiles. I lifted a hand to my chest to check my heart rate when I finally turned back towards the way we came, unable to fight off my embarrassment, but not willing to let him know he won.

I needed to go for a run. The room was feeling a little stuffy. I countered, shrugging off his chuckle. Don’t laugh at me! Why are you staring at me so hard, anyway? It’s kind of creepy.

Didn’t feel too stuffy for me. Davin crossed his arms in front of his chest, his steps shifting as he came closer to me, making me stop and stare up into his emerald eyes. It just feels right to have you in my sights, Lulu.

My heart throbbed again, making my entire face flush. It was the corniest thing anyone had ever said to me before, yet coming from him made me feel nauseous with butterflies. My brain was sending warning signals my body refused to listen to, and my gaze fell to his lips. The perfect kiss. Not like I would know what that was, but this moment made me feel sure that I wanted to kiss him, too.

The door nearby flew open, banging against the lockers behind it in the hallway, making me jump. The adult on the other side looked embarrassed, too. Before I could think things through, I took off running again, leaving Davin to his unknown fate. Not that I hated him, just the way he made me feel. Why? I’d never felt such a rush of emotions before.

Was it because my lack of experience? Before, there were only girls at my old school. That was it. If he wanted to be my friend, I could manage that. Why did high school have to toss me a learning curve right off the bat? His footsteps slowed to a walk behind me, giving me some preparation as I turned to face him, heart pounding in my head. Maybe I was getting sick, and it only happened around him.

Do you seriously hate me? This time his deep tenor voice didn’t startle me, at least, not as much. Because if you do... I’ll back off. Amber’s just been talking a lot about you, so I wanted to learn more. Sorry, was I really being that creepy?

No, I don’t hate you. You make my heart race and it’s strange. And I’m not sure if I like it. I replied, giving him my best attempted smile. But I wanted the normal high school experience. It’s why I’m here. I really don’t know how to explain it.

How could I just be honest like that? I wondered, as my face turned bright red, and I looked away from him again. My emotions had been through more today than they had my entire young life. I hated the thought of being so vulnerable with a complete stranger, yet something about him had me at ease. Catching movement out of the corner of my eye, I turned to find him standing next to me, an awkward smile playing about his lips.

Amber mentioned you were shy. Sorry, I shouldn’t push you so hard. He shoved his hands in his pockets, emerald eyes falling to the floor. You just seem so different from everyone, and I guess I’m the kind of guy who enjoys teasing the girl he likes.

It was completely out of the blue, but I noticed his confession before anything else. I averted my gaze, my face feeling even hotter than before. Maybe it was stupid to act this way about a guy, but I didn’t know because I’d never been around one before. I had female tutors and went to a private girls’ school. This was the first time I went to a school without a uniform. What did I say to that? How did I answer him?

Why would Amber talk to you about me? Had he not been walking next to me, I would have facepalmed again for such a moronic question. That’s not the point, though...

We’re cousins, though her parents are better off than mine. She’s the type of person who just can’t leave anyone alone, especially if they have a ‘family’ title. He shrugged before glancing at me nervously. When she told me how she met you, I was a little worried. But I’m glad you’re here. Most people only want to be her friend because of her wealth.

Friendship doesn’t have a price tag. I said without flinching, and his eyes widened. What?

Nothing. Davin chuckled, his head tilting as he smiled at me, a dimple in his cheek. I just told her that same thing. You two really are unbelievable.

Should that offend me? I wondered as we continued walking. Despite the different levels of wealth, I really didn’t think of myself any better than anyone else. Everyone had different struggles they had to face, so acting pompous would hurt more than help. And it wasn’t just for their sake, it was for mine too; I thought with a nod. My parents may be wealthy, but they are good people. How did that make me unbelievable, though?

In His Eyes

When my parents shared a kiss in front of me, I looked away, face flushing. It reminded me of when I first met Davin. A few days passed since then and I could not help but be reminded of him every single day. I crossed my arms in front of me before slamming my head down on them in annoyance. Another groan of dismay parted my lips, at the pain from hurting my forehead and because I had yet to stop thinking about him.

I pulled away from the counter, glancing out the window to a pretty view of the small tulip garden in our backyard. Tulips. They were mom’s favorite flower, which is why they were in our backyard, but I remembered dad working out there for days, silently, trying to get them to bloom for her. Dad never had a green thumb, it was why he was a lawyer, but he wanted to make her smile. Would Davin ever do something like that? I propped my head on my hand as I stared, before catching sight of my mom.

You met a boy. My mom stated with narrowed blue eyes, shifting to plant her head on her fist propped up on the kitchen island. Honey, get the camera.

No! No, don’t! He’s just a stupid guy. I started, but my dad frowned at this, his heart looking broken. But I don’t like-like him. He makes my heart race and I can’t breathe around him... Am I getting sick?

Both my parents shared a look, my dad shrugging in annoyance, my mom a gentle smile. Maybe I was a glutton for punishment, much like I let Davin call me Lulu. I’d hated that nickname for so long, often telling people they weren’t allowed to call me that, though I had no honest idea why. Until my dad finally told me a few years ago. My grandpa on my dad’s side always called me Lulu. Yet Davin had my permission. I slammed my head against the marble counter again, eyes closing at the gentler blow.

Boys will make you stupid. You should be focused on your studies and... my dad started, but my mom jokingly smacked him on the back of the head with her hand then took his, making sure to interlock their fingers. What?

Mom and dad were soulmates. I loved the idea of being with a single person for the rest of my life, more so than anything. Sometimes, I dreamed of the day I would meet Davin, then I cancelled that thought immediately. Dad was right, my studies were always far more important than this. No way could I just jump into a relationship headfirst without thinking about it. We needed to reach friendship first.

That was what the teen magazine said to a lifelong successful relationship. My eyes fell on the nearby cover of said magazine, staring at me from where I set it down. The inviting pink hearted cover called to me, tempting me out of this conversation with my parents. Maybe it could tell me exactly where I need to fix things to make him like me more. But wasn’t it generally not advised to follow the advice of a teen magazine?

So, should I have never married you and focused on my studies, Honey? She questioned with an edge to her voice, making my attention shift back to their playful bickering. Because as I recall it, you were crazy in love with me first. Remember?

I wasn’t in love. There was no way I was in love. Dad was right more often than not. I needed to focus on school and my future, not some flimsy thing like love. My heart was in a full race by now, no matter how much I rejected it. I am too young for something like this. That was what mom and dad would tell me. Should tell me. But when I looked up at the two of them, they had understanding smiles on their faces, their gazes on each other.

He looks at me like that. I said, startling my parents from each other and my mom’s gaze turned questioning. The boy from school. Davin Robertson. He looks at me like you do my mom, Dad.

I could feel their hard stares on my face, but kept it averted, embarrassed to even look at them. My parents were a genuine love story brought to life. Maybe they could help me figure out what to do. But talking to them about this stuff was embarrassing. Would they even understand it? Could they? Being unsure of things was not like me. I didn’t like being confused or daydreaming when there were more important things to do.

I needed to figure out what to do. Did I really want to let this interrupt everything I’d been working on for the past two years for this? Romance was for adults, not silly teenagers trying to figure things out. I pushed the magazine off the counter into the trashcan, no longer able to care. This was something I needed to let go of. My future needed to come first. Maybe when I had more of myself figured out, I could think about it.

He’s the one. There’s only so long you can reject him. Mom stated with a small smile, making my dad winced. Honey, she can’t stay a child forever. She was old enough to bring socialization to the dinner table as a topic of conversation. Her voice was gentle, encouraging, and dad’s gaze returned to her. Perhaps we should trust her to make the right decisions for now. We can always step in if she needs guidance.

She is my daughter. She will make the right decision for her. My father stated with a firm nod, his believe in me making my heart swell happily. But I want to meet him first.

Dad! I yelled; eyes wide in mock shock, covering my chest with my hand. I don’t even know him that well. Why would I bring him to meet you?!

Honey? Usually, kids introduce their boyfriends or girlfriends before marriage. Mom stated with a smirk, watching as his face paled in shock. Do you think he’s already planning the proposal?

As my parents began another play argument over that, I thought back to Davin again. I may be in love. Maybe. I didn’t notice their gaze as I considered this, and lifted a teacup to my lips as I thought this over. Even if I was in love with him, it would never happen. A guy like him probably had a girlfriend. Especially if he was super kind to her like he was to me. I sighed as I thought about his cute smile before shaking the memory from my mind.

Without saying another word to my parents, I stood and walked towards the kitchen to rinse my cup. Despite being the daughter of a wealthy family, my parents were not born into money. My mother made a name for herself as a model, and my father was the chosen lawyer for several wealthy clients from Hollywood. Because of this, I had a more normal childhood than most people in my circle.

Mom lived on the streets before she met my dad, working as a store clerk trying and trying to model in California. Which she’d been in the news for a lot. Many people called her a ‘gold-digger’, a ‘money whore’, and a bunch of other things back then, when she met my dad. It was the story they often told, making me truly believe in love at first sight. And whatever thrummed to life between Davin and I.

Did you see that? I heard my mom wandering in behind me, her pink fluffy house shoes making a soft shuffling noise. She’s completely into him.

She’s still too little to have a boyfriend. Lucia told me she’d marry me when she got older. My dad returned, a small pout on his lips, and I shot a glare over my shoulder as I dried my hands. But I suppose if she’s that serious...

It’s NOT THAT SERIOUS! I yelled out, embarrassed my father would think my focus wavered like that. I told you! I don’t like-like him like that!

Instead of hanging around waiting for more teasing from them, I ran up the back stairs to my room, locking the door behind me to be alone. Even if I did like him, school was more important, and I headed for my tablet. Just thinking about it was annoying. I took a seat at my computer desk, hoping to chat with some friends while playing my favorite game. This was much easier than talking in person with someone. Especially Davin, with his perfect, distracting smile.

I shook my head again, hating how confused he made me feel. Deep breath. As I loaded into the game, I noticed Amber get online, too, and smiled. Maybe a girl’s gaming night would be fun. I sent her a video call invite while putting my headset on. The game we were into right now was an online roleplaying game with open-world cooperative play, so I really wanted to complete some side quests with her while we had the chance.

So! You never told me what you and Davin talked about in the hallway the other day. Amber said as soon as the chat connected. Spill it.

There’s nothing to say. I replied dumbly, grabbing my controller. Let’s finish up that side quest we were working on.

Well, he had plenty to say about you... she teased, and I glanced at her on the screen for a second. Like how cute you are. What your phone number was. If you have a boyfriend.

No, he didn’t! My chair squeaked as I turned to deny her statements. No way!

Yes way! And for the record? He doesn’t have a girlfriend! Amber stuck her tongue out, a wicked smile on her face. We could be family!

How was it possible he didn’t have a girlfriend? Davin was perfect in every way, so how did he not have a girlfriend? I didn’t understand that. And sure, I liked the sound of being kin to Amber, but her hint at it meant I would marry Davin. My cheeks flushed as I stared at the game over screen, no longer able to focus on what I was doing. When I realized again where my thoughts went, I threw my controller on the desk.

Then I released a squeal of shock and fell back against my gaming chair overdramatically. Which hurt, but I was so focused on what she was saying, I ignored it. There was no way. He was just joking around and teasing Amber, too. I covered my face with my hands, annoyed and flustered that I was right back to thinking about him. With his perfect lips, perfect eyes, perfect everything!

Ugh! Thanks a LOT, Amber! I finally got him out of my mind and now he’s right back! I shouted, flinching when her eyes widened in shock. Crap! Forget it!

Not a chance in hell. Spill!

Fine. All he did in the hallway was tease me. There’s no way he’s serious about me, Amber! I replied, turning back to the game to realize another player killed me. I don’t want to game anymore. You’re such an idiot!

Seriously? Her voice turned stern, drawing my gaze to her to see a fierce expression covering her features. You should see the way he stares at you. You’re not the world to him. You’re everything to him. The entire universe. The very air he breathes. THAT is how he looks at you. You’re so lucky.

I knew. I wasn’t stupid. My dad looked at my mom like that. And she looked at him the same way, right back. All-consuming love. But I wasn’t ready, not for something like that. A love like that could make people lose sight of themselves. Could I even trust him? There were so many questions and very few answers to be seen. Why did it feel like this was more important than anything else? Usually, I loved gaming to take my mind OFF things.

I’m gonna go. My mom’s calling. Amber continued, glancing away with a tired sigh, and a knock sounded on my door, too. I’m not mad, just... God, I wish someone looked at me the way he does you.

Yeah. Later. I replied, turning my tablet off a little earlier than normal. Come in.

It’s locked. My mom stated after trying the knob. I wanted to talk to you.

Yeah. I nodded, walking over to unlock it before falling face-first on my queen-sized bed. What’s up?

We went a little too far with the teasing earlier, but this is why you argued so strongly with your father about going to public school, remember? You wanted a normal childhood, not one where you were thrown in the spotlight above others first. Mom smiled softly, reaching out to run her fingers gently through my hair. You’re seventeen. You have your whole life ahead of you, but you shouldn’t have regrets, baby. If you really like Davin, tell him. Be his girlfriend. Find out if it’s a relationship with a future or not. Don’t give up without trying first.

But... Mom, it feels like I’m in a storm right now. All my feelings are haywire and I don’t even understand it.

Because you are, honey. And it’s perfectly normal. That smile widened when my dad appeared at the door, reminding me of the two of them once again. "Your dad and I will always be there for you,