Meet the Characters – An Interview with Sunny Martin from “Watcher” and “Runner” by Roh Morgon

Predator. Killer. Monster.

The words echo in Sunny Martin’s head each time she looks in the mirror. Since the night she was torn from her car and drained of her blood, only one fear rivals that of the hungry beast within her - the fear of exposure.

Her lonely struggle to survive on the edge of the human world leads Sunny to the mountain peaks of Colorado where she meets Nicolas, the enigmatic leader of a hidden society.

Their passion, tainted by betrayal, violence, and murder, reveals a shocking truth behind Sunny's savage nature, and drives her toward an agonizing Choice between her heart and the last remnant of her human soul.

Welcome to Mysteries Unveiled with your host, William Wilson. Tonight’s guest brings us a mystery of a personal nature. Although this is not the type of mystery we typically examine, we’ve made an exception in this case due to some rather unusual circumstances surrounding it.

Please welcome our guest, Sunny Martin. Hello, Ms. Martin. May I call you Sunny?

She wanders around the living room, still ignoring the chair I’d offered upon her arrival just a moment ago. Her gaze, hidden by a pair of large sunglasses, lingers on the windows and the door, as though she’s gauging potential escape routes.

Tall and slender, she’s dressed in a black leather jacket and sweater over a pair of tight-fitting jeans and black high-heeled boots. A pair of thin, silvery scars run down her right cheek and jaw. Her long, dark brown hair curls about her shoulders, and she moves with a strange combination of strength and feline grace. She’s odd, quite different from any previous guests we’ve had.

Ms. Martin? Sunny?

Yes, you can call me Sunny. That’s fine.

Please explain to the audience why you are here.

She stops at the fireplace, then turns and faces me.

I’m trying to find someone. I believe he’s in danger. He’s a longtime listener of your show, and I’m hoping he’s listening tonight.

But he’s not just a listener. Didn’t you say he’s also a frequent caller?

Yes. He’s very analytical and enjoys using science to solve the mysteries you feature on your program.

Indeed he does. Listeners, you may know of whom we speak. He goes by the name of Dr. Miklos and is a frequent contributor to the discussions on this show. He’s also a bit of a mystery himself.

In the hope that he is listening, Sunny, tell us a little about why you are looking for him. You mentioned he might be in danger. What kind of danger?

It’s . . . complicated. But I believe his former . . . associates might be trying to kill him.

How do you know Dr. Miklos? Have the two of you met in person?

She nods.

Yes.

How long have you known him?

Well, not long, actually. Just a few months.

A few months? How did you meet?

She resumes her catlike prowl around the room, then stops at the bookcase.

He was . . . he was standing across the street, staring at me. I’ve never felt anything like that before, and I could tell just by looking at him that he was like me.

Like you? In what way?

She shakes her head, offering a rueful half smile.

It’s nothing I can really explain.

What happened then?

He just vanished into the crowd. And then that night, when I got off work from bartending, he was waiting for me outside on the sidewalk.

That must’ve been a little strange.

It was. It was frightening. And yet I felt so drawn to him. I’ve been alone a long time and haven’t met anyone like him before—at least formally. So when he suggested we talk in the café down the street, I was both thrilled and scared. But I went with him anyway.

How did that turn out? What was he like?

He was . . . he was wonderful. And terrifying.

Why terrifying?

He’s very powerful. I wasn’t sure at first whether or not he meant to . . . well, never mind.

Harm you in some way?

Yes.

Describe him.

He’s tall, about six-foot-three, and athletic, and has the most mesmerizing green eyes. He’s very sophisticated and dignified. A real gentleman. And he’s extremely passionate—about everything.

You love him.

Wrapping her arms around herself, she presses her lips together and looks down at the floor a moment, then nods.

Yes, I do. Very much.

Does he love you?

She looks back up at me, her eyes and much of her face still hidden by the dark glasses.

Yes.

So what happened after that first meeting? Did you continue to see one another?

A log in the fireplace snaps in the flames, and she flinches, then begins pacing the room again.

Yes. We became . . . very involved.

What are some of your favorite memories of that time together?

I . . . don’t know. I suppose the ski trip. He took me skiing for the first time. Nic—I mean, Dr. Miklos is a wonderful teacher, and when we skied down the mountain that night with the lights off, it was magical, like we were on our very own planet.

You skied in the dark with no lights?

Oh. Well, the moon’s reflection on the snow lit up the slope. Besides, he sees pretty well in the dark. We both do.

Any other memories you care to share?

She sighs.

Sunny?

His garden. He has the most wonderful topiary garden, filled with all kinds of mythological creatures made from living plants. And he does all the work himself. He’s so meticulous—with everything . . .

You miss him.

I do.

What do you miss the most about him?

Stopping beside the guest chair, she stares across the room, then takes a deep breath.

I miss his smile, and the amusement lighting up his emerald eyes when I’ve said or done something silly . . .  

Her jaw tightens as she pauses.

And his unusual compassion for others, though he denies it—

A shuddering breath tears from her throat.

And his passion for me. I miss that most of all . . . I’m sorry. I can’t—

She turns her back to me, hugging herself once again.

Well, let’s talk about something different then. What do you think he sees in you?

I don’t know. My naïvety, I suppose. And my lack of ambition in his world.

His world?

I’m not as ruthless as most of his associates—at least in the way they are.

So you’re ruthless in a different way?

A sudden, bitter laugh escapes her.

Oh, yes. You have no idea.

The icy tone in her voice chills the very air in the room.

In . . . in what way?

She slowly turns around, raises her hand to her face, and takes off the sunglasses. Glacier-colored eyes regard me with a flat stare—a stare I’ve only seen from the eyes of a battle-hardened soldier, or a serial killer on trial. Red flickers briefly within the pupils.

You don’t really want to know.

Right. Okay, then. Well, do you . . . do you have any other words for our audience? Anything you’d like to say to Dr. Miklos, in case he’s listening?

Her gaze softens, then she looks away and dons the sunglasses once again.

I’m sorry. Yes. Yes, I do have something I’d like to say to Nic . . . to Dr. Miklos.

She takes a deep breath and focuses her hidden gaze across the room.

If you’re out there, please listen to me. Come back. We’ll leave it all behind—the Game, the war, the others. It’ll be just you and me. We’ll go to that special place we’ve talked about, and we’ll live free where no one will find us. Just you and me. Please, please come back. You know where I’ll be . . .

The air sighs, and she is no longer behind the chair. In fact, she is no longer in the room.

Uh, well, that’s it for our show tonight, folks. Join us next time as we unveil yet another mystery. Until then, good night.

With a bone-deep shiver, I get up to close the door, which is standing wide open. As I peer out into the night, I can’t help but think one of the biggest mysteries I’ve ever encountered was standing in my living room just a moment ago.

Closing the door, I lock it, knowing full well that it provides little barrier to something that moves as fast and silently as Sunny Martin. Recalling the eerie red light that flashed in her eyes, I suddenly feel grateful to be alive.

I do hope, though, that she finds who she’s looking for.

“Watcher” and “Runner” are available through:

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Runner  AMAZON

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First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Brooke Runs Away” by Carrie Padgett

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Carrie Padgett, and an excerpt from her Sweet Contemporary Romance Novella, “Brooke Runs Away – a Harts Leap Novella.”

Austin and Brooke are contestants on the reality dating show, Date My Son! Brooke thought they really connected, so she felt blindsided when Austin eliminated her. She’s come back to the mansion to get some answers. Austin told her his mom made the decision to eliminate her and since the show is called “Date My Son!” there was nothing he could do to keep her longer. They’re sitting on the edge of the pool.

First Kiss Excerpt

“Thanks for the chat, Austin.” I started to stand, but he took my hand and I froze, one foot in the water, the other on the warm concrete edge.

“Do you think …” He paused and gave me an appraising look. I was suddenly conscious of the camera angled over his shoulder and my knee bent up at a weird angle. I lowered my other foot back to the water. “May I call you when this is over?”

I swallowed a bark of laughter. “What about finding true love on reality television? Isn’t your future fiancée still here somewhere?”

He shrugged. “I want someone who’s the same on camera and off. You and Cassie are the only two who resemble that.”

“And Cassie’s taken.”

His gaze never wavered. “It’s you, Brooke. It’s been you since you ordered extra whip on your coffee that first day. In your normal clothes, as yourself.”

I glanced around. This place and this show sold an idea, an image of what a good life should be. A fully-stocked bar. A pool. Granite countertops. Fabulous dates and hip places. Helicopter rides to bowling alleys.

But it was a faux life. The real good life is hot chocolate in front of the Christmas fire. Cribbage on rainy days. Sparring about whether to order pizza or Chinese for dinner.

Who did I want to debate with about pepperoni versus fried rice?

A tiny shiver of anticipation darted to my core.

“Tell me about Harts Leap.” Austin’s quiet voice drew me out of my thoughts.

I retrieved my hand from his and leaned back. “It’s the best town in the world. I grew up there. I love it there. I belong there.”

He pulled a leg out of the water and tucked it under his opposite knee, then turned and faced me. “Instead of calling you, may I come for a visit? I want to see the soda fountain, and the farmer’s market, and the café and the dance studio and the quilt”—

“Have you been Googling Harts Leap?” I interrupted.

He chuckled and shook his head. “You told me so much about the place, I think I could walk from the Brookside Inn to Daisy’s Café without asking directions.”

“I didn’t talk about home that much! Did I?” Perhaps I’d been more homesick than I realized.

“Between you and Nathan, expect tourism to increase approximately 300 percent when the show airs.”

A flush of pleasure that he’d listened so well warred with embarrassment that I’d bored him and a nation of viewers who wanted to see romance, not a travelogue. I didn’t run away from Harts Leap to find love. I left to find myself.

I cleared my throat. “You can visit me. I … I’d like that.”

“Really?” He reached for my hand, then pulled me to stand next to him.

My stomach fluttered as his gaze drifted to my lips.

We’d laughed. We’d bowled. We’d shared meals and dates.

We’d never kissed.

He bent his head and I lifted my mouth to meet his.

Our kiss was soft at first, tentative. Then he deepened the contact, pulled me closer, as if after one taste, he had to have more.

I threaded my arms around his neck and met his want with my own.

After a long moment, we pulled back. He rested his forehead on mine. “Wow.”

I had no breath left, so I smiled.

His gaze darkened and he let go. “Wait here.” He strode back to the house.

I watched Austin’s back disappear through the kitchen door. Was it something I said?

For the first time since we stepped outside, I noticed the camera and its steady red light.

No.

Our conversation, our questions, our kiss … they were private.

My breath caught in my throat and my pulse pounded.

I’d broken the first rule of reality television. Never forget that everything is recorded and anything might show up on air.

It took every ounce of self-control to walk at a steady pace around the house and back to my car. The tears didn’t come until after I exited the freeway near my apartment. I dashed out of the Subaru, and up the steps to my door. Inside, I stumbled to the couch and buried my face in a pillow.

Then I cried.

“Brooke Runs Away” is available through:

AMAZON

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Meet the Characters – An Interview with Kevin Taylor from “Teacher’s Pet” by Kenzie Michaels

What happens when you discover that the man who caught your attention three months ago is your son’s teacher? Tammy Saunders is horrified when she finds out the man who set her heart racing is her son’s favorite teacher. After one bad relationship, can she trust her heart? What will her son Danny think?

Kevin Taylor has made some bad choices in his life. But sleeping with not only one, but two, of his students’ mothers has got to be the worst mistake he’s ever made. Especially when he’s lost his heart to one of them? When Danny begins to rebel in his classroom, will Kevin and Tammy's relationship be in jeopardy?

Today we’re talking to Kevin Taylor from “Teacher’s Pet,” a Contemporary Romance by Kenzie Michaels. Let’s get started. I’m sure our readers are eager to learn more about you.

Hello Kevin, thanks for agreeing to sit down with me today.

It’s about time, don’t you think, Kenzie? Since I was really your first male character…

Not quite; Steve and Brad were created in August. You didn’t arrive until November.

Technicality… I believe the inspiration for me began back in what, 2003?

Okay, if you want to get technical with me, yes. I based you loosely on my oldest son’s history teacher, while Steve and Brad were inspired in 2007. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, can we continue?

With pleasure. What’s your first question?

What was your first impression of Tammy?

She knocked my socks off. She wasn’t trying to impress anyone at the ball field that day, and I’m so glad she knew my colleague. I wasn’t sure how to start a conversation with her.

You? Tongue-tied around her?

I know; it doesn’t happen very often, but it was instant attraction, and my brain just went to mush. When she insisted on buying me another bag of popcorn, the conversation flowed naturally. Especially when I found out she’d been to the Tampa-St. Pete area in Florida, which is where I’m from.

How did you end up in Indiana?  

That’s a good question. My sister’s husband was transferred to Indianapolis right after I got my education degree, and she told me Math teachers were in hot demand up here. So I took the State Boards and got certified on the first try. Brooke was thrilled to have me around to help out with her kids while I waited to be hired.

Are you close to family?

Close, as in emotional? Very. I was lucky to be raised by loving parents who supported my decision to go into education. My parents still live in Florida, and since I’m up here, I only see them once or twice a year. My sister and her family now live in Jacksonville, so I’m glad she’s there in case of any emergency.

Are you upset your name is not in the title?

Oh no, not at all. In fact, I’m glad you changed the title from Head of the Class. It just felt so stuffy. Teacher’s Pet is much better.

Do you have any annoying habits I didn’t share?

(pinches bridge of nose)

I think you touched on the fact that while I’m not the messiest man on the planet, I’m also not a neat freak either. Tammy got after me the first time I tossed a wet towel on the bed instead of hanging it on the towel rack. She also taught me how to do laundry the right way… I wondered why my socks were turning gray.

Any hobbies we might be interested in knowing about?

Watching and playing sports, spending time with both my sister’s kids and Tammy’s. My niece and nephew are about the same age as Danny and Teri, so I’m well trained in board games, going to athletic events, or even spending quiet evenings putting together puzzles or playing card games.

Are you happy with the profession your author chose for you or would you rather be working at something totally different and why?

No, you hit it dead on. I’ve always been good with numbers, and my mom loves to tell the story about how I wanted more homework in the second grade. I would finish well ahead of the others, and thankfully I had a teacher who understood. She would assign me extra work until the others finished. I think that’s when I decided I wanted to be like her.

           

If you could go back in time, what one thing would you change in your life?

I wish I’d met Tammy first, instead of Melanie. It would have saved us soooo much heartache.

Now for a personal question. When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

Ahem. The older I get, the more I see my dad staring back at me. Or my uncle. I just hope I don’t inherit the male pattern baldness, but I’ve been told that’s passed down from the mother’s side, so I should be okay.

Is Tammy a good kisser?

The best.

I updated your book recently; are you happy with it?

Very! I don’t know how we ever got along without smartphones or even Social Media. When we were going through the lawsuit with Melanie, I’d have to wait until I got home to get a message from my lawyer, because I didn’t have service at Tammy’s house. Now, all he has to do is text me, and I get it no matter where I’m at.

Did your story end too soon?

At first, I thought it was taking too long, but I saw what you were doing, and I think it would have been too short if you’d written the Valentine’s Day scene differently. You ended up with a well-fleshed out story, in my opinion.

Who was your favorite supporting character?

Besides my mom? LOL... toss up between Danny and Teri. But then again, you didn’t see Danny interacting with Kelsey or Ariel, two girls in his class. Sixth grade kids with crushes are priceless to watch!

Do you want your story to become a series with you as a recurring character?

I don’t think it’s necessary, unless you decide you want to explore Danny or Teri’s future stories.

Thanks for sitting down with me Kevin! This was truly a pleasure.

I’m just glad you finally got around to doing this with me.

“Teacher’s Pet” is available through:

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First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Fated Desires” by Becky Flade

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Becky Flade, and an excerpt from her Contemporary Romance, “Fated Desires.”

Jenna Gavin is searching for a fresh start and, more importantly, for balance. Her heart, and perhaps the hands of fate, have led her and her son to Trappers' Cove, Minnesota. Settling in the small, quirky town, she's not in the market for a casual relationship but finds herself in one with the young widower next door.

Former shortstop, Gabriel Foxx, is drawn to his difficult new neighbor. The more the prickly divorcee tries to keep him at arm's length, the more determined he is to break down her walls. He can't avoid the passion Jenna inspires and his friendship with Finn has him yearning for family, but Gabe won't allow himself to feel more.

When friendship grows complicated by stronger emotions and mutual desire just isn't enough, will love be worth the risk?

First Kiss Excerpt

He wasn’t expecting the kiss. It was a whisper of a caress. Jenna’s eyes were open. Luminous. And he saw compassion and comfort there. Only their lips touched, but the world rocked under his feet.

“I didn’t intend to make you sad,” she whispered.

He tugged her close and took her mouth. This kiss wasn’t a whisper. She gasped when he sucked her bottom lip between his. He felt the tip of her tongue, the sharp edge of her teeth, and the pulsing vein under his hand where it rest on her neck. He broke the kiss and she swayed.

“You didn’t.”

“I didn’t what?”

She looked dazed. He stuck his tongue in his cheek to avoid smiling. He thought she’d get mad; assume he laughed at her. But he was delighted with her, with her reaction, and charmed she had kissed him to cheer him. It wasn’t how he’d imagined the moment, their first kiss, but this was much better. Unexpected. This woman was a constant surprise.

“You didn’t make me sad. Far from it.” He took her hips in his hands. They were curvy and filled his palms. A pleasant surprise, as she gave the impression of being all edges and sharp angles. He tugged and her lissome body brushed his. His erection jumped happily at the brief contact. Her eyes flared and her lip caught between her teeth. He couldn’t hold in his laughter. “See?”

“I, um, really?”

“Really.” He let go of her and she stepped far enough away he’d have to stretch to touch her again. She was unsure of herself; he could see her mind working. He put his hands in his pockets and waited. She ran her hands through her hair and the ends stuck up in the frenzied way he enjoyed.

“You’re attracted to me?”

“Yes.”

“It’s not pity?”

“No.”

A few feet away from him she paced in a short, jerky circuit. Amused by her confusion, he stepped toward her. “I’m attracted to you. Tell me to back off or get comfortable with it…Fast.”

“Fated Desires” is available through:

AMAZON

IBOOKS

BARNES& NOBLE

KOBO

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Meet the Characters – An Interview with Eric Outerbach from “The Mighty Finn” by Holly Bargo

Boy meets girl.

Author Charlotte Forsythe is determined not to be a victim again. Her Great Dane, Finn, makes sure of it. While vacationing with Finn in San Diego, Charlotte meets Navy SEAL, Eric Outerbach. It doesn’t go well. Eric begs forgiveness.

Boy and girl become friends.

They make a long distance friendship work through texts and phone calls. The film rights to two of Charlotte’s books are sold and she heads back out to California to supervise the conversion of written content to the silver screen. And the friendship's not so long distance after all.

Boy and girl fall in love.

How could she not fall in love with a handsome, sexy warrior like Eric? How could he not love a woman as gentle and forgiving as Charlotte?

A guardian’s duty ends.

Finn is mighty, but old. It’s time to pass on the duties of love and protection to someone else.

Today we’re talking to Eric from “The Mighty Finn,” a Contemporary Military Romance by Holly Bargo. Let’s get started. I’m sure our readers are eager to learn more about you.

How old are you?

I’m 39 years old, old for a Navy SEAL.

What is people’s first impression of you?

Big, fit, maybe dangerous.

What are you most afraid of?

Letting my team down. That happened once with disastrous results and one of my team members died. It happened shortly before I met Charlotte.

What was your first impression of Charlotte?

Not good. I was depressed, having recently lost one of my teammates. I saw this pretty woman playing on the beach with her big-ass dog and their joy just struck me wrong, you know? Anyway, the dog crashed into me jumping after a Frisbee and I lost my temper. It went downhill from there.

Are you close to family?

My team is my family and we’re as close as brothers can get. We’d do absolutely anything for each other, no questions asked, no hesitation.

Do you care about what others assume about you?

I care what my team members and Charlotte think of me. And my CO. Hey, I’m a SEAL, confidence goes with the territory.

If you could make any one thing happen, what would it be?

If I could have healed Finn, I would have done that. Chill gave his life for his country, something we all knew might happen. But Finn… damn… that dog was Charlotte’s lifeline. He saved her when I didn’t even know her, when I wasn’t there for her.

What inner doubt causes you the most difficulty?

That another nut job will hurt Charlotte again and I won’t be able to protect her. It happened once, and she still bears the scars, terrible scars that make even me cringe.

Now on to something lighter, what is your favorite drink?

Beer. Hands down, nothing beats a cold beer on a hot day.

What is your favorite food?

I’ve been in the military since I was 18 years old, so anything that falls under “home-cooked” is my favorite food. I’ve got to admit that my buddy Tornado’s wife is an absolutely fabulous cook and Charlotte’s pretty good, too—just don’t tell her that Maria Teresa is better.

What is your favorite song?

Anything Charlotte doesn’t sing. I love that woman to death, but she couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket. Even Finn cringed when she sang.

Describe a typical Friday night.

Before I married Charlotte, a typical Friday evening was spent playing cards with my buddies, drinking some beer, and maybe—if we were lucky—eating Maria Teresa’s cooking.

What kinds of things do you always carry in pockets?

A pocket knife and cash.

If you had a free day with no responsibilities and your only mission was to enjoy yourself, what would you do?

Spend the day with Charlotte. It wouldn’t even have to be in bed, although that’s a damned good option. Just holding her hand and knowing she trusts me is enough.

“The Mighty Finn” is available through:

AMAZON

Author Website

First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Stalemate” by Ginger Sharp

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Ginger Sharp, and an excerpt from her Contemporary Romance, “Stalemate.”

Tony Verducci is a single father with a brooding Jersey-sized chip on his shoulder about life, love, and women. Cassi York is a trusting California Girl who expects the best out of everyone and is slowly becoming disillusioned about romance and men.

When these two lost neighbors meet, sparks fly, tempers flare, and both learn to deal with the baggage in their mutual lives. Stalemate is a modern-day story about how opposites attract regardless of their rocky pasts and present situations.

Can Tony and Cassi prove that love can always find a way, or will they lose each other in the rough waters of New Jersey?

First Kiss Excerpt

Driving home with urgency from work, I park my car. Running up the stairs to discover there’s a note taped to the door of my apartment that I tear down as I am going inside. My apartment is free of my daughter and Cassi.

I go back to the note and read it out loud,

‘Tony,

I had an emergency at work. Please come to NJVH for Izzy. The address is 19 Essex Street, Neptune City, NJ.

Hopefully, we get home before you see this note,

Cassi.’

Pacing in my kitchen, I’m shocked and angered that Cassi took my child to this NJVH place in the middle of the night. I try to call her cell phone, but she’s not answering. Entering in the location address to my phone and I see that it is less than two miles away. I race down the stairs, leaving to go pick up my daughter.

Angrily driving and locating the building, I don’t waste time as I hastily move through the doors. A tired receptionist behind the welcome desk perks up in her place.

Glaring her down, very agitated. “I’m looking for Cassi York?”

The receptionist grins as she stares down at my chest, and then back up to my face. She plucks up her phone and makes a call. After a few minutes, Cassi appears in front of me wearing hospital scrubs.

She gestures for me to follow her. Cassi walks to an employee lounge where Izzy is sleeping on their sofa.

Crossing my arms into my chest, I’m about to reprimand Cassi for taking my daughter out in the middle of the night. I can see the weary look on Cassi’s face. I bend down, picking Izzy up from the couch.

Cassi jerks her head, motioning for me to follow her. She directs me out a back door into the parking lot. She opens my car door for me, so I can place Izzy down on the seat. I seatbelt her in and lightly close the door.

Spinning around and glaring, “You had no right taking Izzy from my apartment. I trusted you to watch her.”

Cassi closes her eyes squeezing them shut, “Tony, I’m very sorry. I received an emergency call and I had to bring Izzy with me. My staff loved having her and she was well cared for by all of us. You know this is the nature of my job.”

Shaking my head, “No, I don’t know. What do you do and why was that woman calling you doctor?”

Cassi sharply inhales, “Tony, I ‘am’ a doctor, a veterinarian. I specialize in exotic animals, mostly reptiles and amphibians, but all other animals as well.”

Crossing my arms, leaning on my car, I speak sternly, “You’re telling me that this emergency could not wait until the morning for a stupid animal?”

She shakes her head, sighing as she speaks, “No Tony, the lizard would have died. I had to diagnose and operate immediately. I must be getting back inside. I may stay here until my shift starts. Again, I’m very sorry.” She turns and walks away from me.

I call out to her, “I can see that you’re tired. We’ll discuss this later.”

Cassi stops short, harshly speaking out, “Tony, there’s nothing to discuss. Just let it go and find yourself a new babysitter. Your daughter was safe the entire time and never put in harm’s way. Please get over your arrogant brooding self.”

Opening my eyes wide, “Wow, someone’s being a bitch.”

Cassi takes a few steps toward me, and then angrily points, “Tony, I think I have known you for a little over a week, and you do nothing but play games with my head. You try to push me around and you also try to control me. I’m not yours to control. If I want to cheat on Jason with some guy at a bar, then I will. I don’t need you to protect me. As you can see, I’m a very big girl and if I want to make mistakes, then I will. Our friendship ends right now and our favors have been squared away.”

She turns away from me again moving hastily toward the building.

My brain is calling me a stupid-ass, but my emotions are disagreeing. I run after her. My heart screams to be careful, but to go for it. Catching up to her, grabbing her, and I spin her around to face me. I curl my fingers around the nape of her neck, leaning in, and forcefully placing my lips to hers.

Cassi tries to resist, but only for a moment. Pushing through her lips to get my tongue into her mouth, I explore her tenderly.

Her warm hands come up to my chest and slowly glide upwards, caressing me. After a prolonged minute, she moans into our kiss. Breaking away slow, I then rest my forehead to hers and listen to her accelerated breathing.

Whispering to her, “There you go, you just cheated on Jason. I promise to never bother you again, since we are no longer friends. Goodbye Cassi.” Rapidly moving away from her to my car, climb inside and start the engine. As I drive away, I look in my rearview mirror to see that Cassi hasn’t budged.

I chuckle to myself wondering what Cassi must be thinking right now. Hopefully, that was a kiss of a lifetime for her. Silly, stupid kid that she is for messing with me. Cassi sure likes to play with fire. Well, it is over now this little game that we both have been playing. I’m relieved, I think. That one kiss shouldn’t get me into any trouble with Melinda, but she’ll not find out about it anyway.

I keep thinking about Cassi. That girl has a real job, a career. She maybe a sexy, smart ass doctor, but she has no common sense. I really must turn off these feelings that I have for her. I’m heavily attracted to the girl living and sleeping just two doors down from my apartment. Things will improve for her later today when she sees her boyfriend. We can move on from this little attraction that we have. No harm done, since it was only one kiss.

“Stalemate” is available through:

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Meet the Characters – An Interview with Sue-ling from “Love in the Air” by Adam Mann

Two passengers find some common ground on a flight to Taipei. Charlie meets Sue-ling on trans-Pacific flight to Taipei after delays due to bad weather, and then further delays mean a long stop-over in the transit area at the airport. Charlie decides to stay at the Airport Hotel where he can get a shower and rest a bit, and is helped by Sue-ling who joins him as she too is delayed by the weather. Their in-flight conversation becomes more than friendly, as they have to wait for their connections, and a mix-up in the hotel bathroom exposes more than just her skin as their relationship develops.

Today we’re talking to Sue-ling from “Love in the Air,” a Contemporary Romance by Adam Mann. Let’s get started. I’m sure our readers are eager to learn more about you.

How old are you?     

I was 29 when I met Charlie, so now just 30.

What is your relationship status?

Single, but now happily married.

What is your best memory to date?

Oh dear, so many, I’m lucky.  Most recently the day I graduated, and then meeting Charlie on the flight as it dawned on me that he might be a good man to get to know better, and I was right.

What was your first impression of Charlie?          

When he kissed my forehead in the airport, and then called my mobile just in time just before I left the terminal.

If we could only hear your voice (but not see you) what characteristic would identify you?

I was born in Taiwan, so I’m obviously Chinese to look at, although after three years at college in Vancouver I do speak good Canadian English.

If you could go back in time, what one thing would you change in your life?   

I first of all thought about meeting Charlie earlier, but that wouldn’t have been practical as then he had a girlfriend, and I was engaged to a man who I thought I’d marry eventually.

Are you close to family?      

My mother and I talk a lot together about all sorts of things, but I do love my father and now of course my new husband.

Do you see morality as black-and-white, or with shades of gray? 

I always thought in terms of black and white, but experience taught me otherwise. I understand the value of a “white lie”, but I despise outright untruths.

If someone from your past showed up, who would you most want it to be, and why? 

I had to think about that question for a few minutes. I’d love to meet any of my fellow students, and I just know we’d talk about old times and new opportunities, and their men.

If someone from your past showed up, who would you most NOT want it to be, and why?   

If I met my old financé I think that he’d be more embarrassed than me, especially as he eventually married my best friend, but forgot to tell me!

What inner doubt causes you the most difficulty?

Charlie’s work contracts last for about two years, so for the time being I have to worry about where we’d live, hopefully with two young children, so the doubt or worry is probably financial.

What is your biggest need? 

Not really a need, but I’d like a job of my own. I’m a botanist.

If you could make any one thing happen, what would it be?      

Easy. I want two babies – one at a time – and as soon as possible, and Charlie agrees.

Now on to something lighter, what is your favorite drink?          

I like California dry white wine, preferably chilled.

What is your favorite food?

Oh definitely Chinese, and roast meat with a salty taste.

Describe a typical Friday night.      

As we move around a bit that would vary, but right now it would not be a conventional Friday, so I’ll have to pass on that question.

If there is one place in the world you could go, where would it be? 

Probably a beach holiday in the Caribbean, especially on a tropical island with plants and animals.

What is your most prized possession?        

My new husband, Charlie.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

With Charlie I have to be both, oops!

What kinds of things do you always carry in your purse?           

So some reason I’ve always carried a Swiss Army penknife, but I’ve rarely had to use it. It just gives me confidence.

What would make you completely happy?

Charlie making me pregnant.

If you had a free day with no responsibilities and your only mission was to enjoy yourself, what would you do?           

Charlie and I haven’t really gone on any holiday, yet, apart from three days honeymoon in Macau. I suppose that shopping would be my main attraction, for clothes and household utilities and decorations.

“Love in the Air” is available through:

AMAZON

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First Kiss Friday – An Excerpt from “Love in the Air” by Adam Mann

Today on First Kiss Friday, we welcome romance author, Adam Mann, and an excerpt from his Sexy Contemporary Romance, “Love in the Air.”

Two passengers find some common ground on a flight to Taipei.

Charlie meets Sue-ling on trans-Pacific flight to Taipei after flight delays due to bad weather, and then further delays mean a long stop-over in the transit area at the airport.

Charlie decides to stay at the Airport Hotel where he can get a shower and rest a bit, and is helped by Sue-ling who joins him as she too is delayed by the weather. 

Their in-flight conversation becomes more than friendly, as they have to wait for their connections, and a mix-up in the hotel bathroom exposes more than just her skin as their relationship develops.

First Kiss Excerpt

It was very early morning when the flight arrived in Taipei, and Charlie walked with Sue-Ling to the Arrivals Hall.

“Wait a minute,” she said and disappeared into an airport shop.

“Here,” she said a few minutes later, “something from Taiwan so that you remember me!” and she laughed.

He handed him a small locally made toy farmer.

As she was standing close to him he kissed her forehead, and she blushed, but made no effort to move away.

“Bathroom,” said Charlie, and Sue-ling took his bag and said, “I’ll wait for you,” which was kind of her.

She watched him walk away, and made a mental note.

Tall, she decided, probably six feet, brown wavy hair, slim build, intelligent and with a lovely smile.  She guessed he’d be late thirties.

She knew he wasn’t married as he’d told her during the flight, as she’d told him she was nearly thirty and single, but she had also said there was an old boyfriend waiting for her at home.

Charlie, for his part, thought about this charming and attractive lady he’d met on the flight.  She was quite tall compared to other Taiwanese ladies, kept her black hair shoulder length, wore thin gold ring earrings, and was still very slim. But with winter clothes covering her he could not tell anymore.  Still she did have a lovely smile with sparkling black eyes.

Sue-ling was waiting for Charlie, and she gave him her bag as she in turn went to the ladies washroom.

“Wrong way round,” thought Charlie, “I should have asked her first!” And he admonished himself, and when she came back she was a bit deep in her own thoughts.  They walked on together.

“You have to go that way, but I’m going over there,” Sue-ling indicated the overhead signs, “Oh yes, here’s my mobile phone number so if you give me a ring sometime, and then I’ll have your number,” and she handed him a small card.

“Good-bye Sue-ling,” said Charlie, “thanks for your time and help on the flight.

Sue-ling smiled and on tip toe kissed Charlie on his right cheek, and she walked away.

Charlie followed the signs leading to the Departure Hall, but was still thinking about her.

He dialed her number in his mobile phone, and it rang;

“Is that the attractive lady I met on the flight from Vancouver?” he asked into the phone.

“No, sorry, I can’t see her around here,” she replied, “but I’ll give you a call if I do.”

“Love in the Air” is available through:

AMAZON

SMASHWORDS