A second edition...

Hey Lovelies!
So there will be a second edition of Family Ties. As of April 1, 2013 Family Ties will no longer be available through Bucks County Publishing. There aren't any issues, just between graduation and starting to look at jobs I want things kind of settled. I will have a second edition available withing a couple of weeks or a month. I will have it re-edited before hand, my friend Amy who did the new cover for End of the Line, will be doing the new cover for Family Ties. She wanted to do a photo shoot for something, and I'm kind of double dipping with it. Amy has already found a location for the photo shoot that will be part of the cover. Unlike End of the Line I doubt there will be new added scenes or plot twists. The new edition will be available with paperback, and all e-books. I plan on doing something special with my books for my graduation (check out the count down ===>) so keep your eyes out.
~Ottilie

Leading Lady ~ Abby

Hey Lovelies!
Now I can't always let the guys have all the attention can I? Of course not! So here is a little introduction to Abby! Family Ties is going to be part of the BCPublishing book signing this saturday at East Greenville PA. Abby wasn't about to sit back much longer with Cory and Aaron getting all the fun.

Abby

 

Brown hair
Brown eyes
Sarcastic
Driven
Witty
Short
Works at a country club
Is not a fan of dresses

Scene:

The bell rang for the end of the day, telling us to separate, summer was officially starting. Everyone ran out of the rooms to enjoy the rest of the day that they had. My friends and I waved to each other knowing we’d see each other soon, we had all summer. School had been a half day so there was still time to find a way to the beach or to someone’s pool. It was a warm sunny day, one that should be enjoyed. On the way out of the door Cory and I had jump back to be flat against the lockers as someone started to run down the hall in a banana suit followed by a person in a gorilla costume with a screaming middle aged teacher with a receding hairline behind them. It was the last day of school after all, might as well make it a memorable last day.

“We’ll see or talk to you guys later!” I shouted down the hall waving my hand high in the air towards Zoey and Danielle.

“Bye Abby!”

Cory and I headed towards our homes, passing the cars getting stuck behind the buses that were filing out to get everyone home, but in reality they just caused more traffic. Acting like the true friend that he is, he took my book out of my hand and started to run ahead on the sidewalk leaving me behind. I started to run to catch up with him, yelling all the way about him being an idiot because I wasn’t too far behind him, I was gaining up on him, but then I thought of a better way to get him. I stopped quickly then took one of my shoes off and chucked it at his head.

Yes, a direct hit! He turned around rubbing the back of his head and I started to crack up and ran up to get my book back from him then slipped my shoe back on. I stuck my tongue out on him and he grabbed me by my waist. He pulled me close to him. I couldn’t stop laughing not that I wanted to stop it was an amazing shot after all. He wrapped an arm around my shoulders so I was trapped in a hug. He held me tight enough that I couldn’t escape, but loose enough that he wouldn’t hurt me in any way. I could feel his chest shake as he laughed against my back. It was not as fair now that we weren’t the same size anymore. The only chance I had was throwing things or jumping him from behind.

“Do you give up?!” Cory chuckled in my ear as I tried to squirm out.

“Never!”

I tried to pull away, knowing this game. I kept laughing and wiggled a hand free from the trap. Then I started to tickle his stomach till he let me go. I lucked out, we were both very ticklish. I would be so doomed if it was just me.

“Race you!” I shouted.

I started after I picked up my book that was dropped carelessly on the sidewalk during the tickle entrapment. I watched as Cory caught up easily, which made me run harder I did not want him to win. I’m a tad on the competitive side. He is taller than I and his longer legs gave him that extra step length. As we grew up he loved holding things over my head so I could not reach.

“Don’t hurt yourself, Abby!”

At that I paused at running and I pushed him over. Since Cory wasn’t excepting it he fell over onto the grass of some person’s lawn. He laughed as he tried to catch his breath sitting on the ground. I bent over trying to catch my breath, leaning so that my hands were on my knees. I really needed to start running. Great, now I need to take a shower before I go to work! That was going to take time out of my small relaxation time.

“Are you alright?”

I turned my head to glare at him. This was getting old fast, real fast. My chest rose and fell heavily as I stood back up to put my hands on my hips to face Cory. He really needed to learn to listen to me about this.

“Okay Cory, get this straight in that thick skull of yours, I’m fine!” The last two words came out real slow to try to get my point across.

“You were in the hospital!”

I rolled my eyes. This would be a lot easier if I still could breathe. I moved my arms so that they were across my chest as I shifted my weight to one foot. Still huffing I tried to look for the words.

“Cory, it was just my appendix! It’s a very normal thing! Many people have to get it taken out. There is medical evidence that I do not need an appendix to live, I’ll live a, well, close to normal life.” I spoke knowing he was just trying to be nice, but I was about to beat him into the ground if he and my parents didn’t leave me alone soon about this.

People need to stop being so overprotective of me and let me live my life!

“But I should have been there for you!”

“What the hell are you talking about?”

I pulled him up from the ground as he almost toppled into me and we continued to walk home. There wasn’t a lot of cars on the roads around as we broke off the main raods and went on side streets. Cory was on the sidewalk as I walked on the edge of the curb.

“Remember, I was supposed to come over and watch that movie with you? If I went over there, then you wouldn’t have been alone when the pain hit.” Cory had his hands in his pockets as he just stared at the ground, shuffling his feet.

I rolled my eyes. He was insane! It was unnecessary guilt for him to live with.

“Cory, you were studying and I was fine! Josh came home just shortly after the pain started and everything was fine! Stop carrying this nonsense guilt! So, remember not to be late tonight for our first day of work or then you will truly be sorry because I will not cover for your sorry butt.”

He rolled his eyes as we turned into our street. I turned into my house once we reached it. I unlatched the lopsided fence around our whole yard, but it was stuck so I gave it a big kick to loosen it.

“Ah my royal lady, what grace and sophistication you have!” Cory spoke still standing on the crack filled sidewalk with his arms opened wide.

I raised my arms high and gave a deep bow. I turned around and jumped into the yard. I hopped up the stairs to the front door and tried to open it. The door was stuck so I had to kick that too. I really wished I wore sneakers today.

Paperback $10.00
Kindle $2.99
Nook $2.99

Time

Hey Lovelies!Sorry for so MIA, I know summer was suppose to be be my catch up time. I've been working 5 days a week, 7-10 hours a day. Well yesterday's shift was over 12 hours which was not so fun on the feet! Especially when I'm suppose to be studying the the PRAXIS and writing. I've been busy and feel like there is seriously not enough time in the day! It doens't help to have more closing shifts tonight till thursday, blah! I got to write a little of Runaway though at work, pretending that I was just working on an email... I've been doing a little writing on Runaway, Walking a Thin Line, and a little of Within your Eyes (Cinderella story). I've been so scattered! I'm going to be done with that job on August 15th though, then I'll be working towards my student teaching this fall! Haha because that will totally be no stress! Plus so much more free time...not...

Back to the writing though. I am working on End of the Line's sequel don't worry. I've been in the mood in writing Contempory fiction, I'm not sure where that craving came from, but I've been running with it. Even though I did submit a short horror story to my publisher (BCP) for it's Halloween collection, I used the story that I had for the literature charity that Elizabeth was trying to set up. It's a little different than the stuff you all have seen of mine so it'll be interesting. Otherwise the only other news I have is that both Amy's are still editing (one for End of the Line, the other for Beneath the Scars). I'd like to do a mini blog tour though when End of the Line is done for that story and Family ties though! I'll end now and save you all!
~Ottilie

What's going on...

Hey Lovelies!So I figured I'd give a little updating of what is going on. End of the Line is still being edited, I'll keep updates as I get news. I keep mentioning Beneath the Scars, It's been done since January, but I've been trying to get someone to proofread it before I hand it over the BCPublishing! Maybe I'll bug someone in my family this week, a friend said she'd read it, but it's been a couple of months. I have been having issues at school so I'm going for good news I'll really be trying to get that out soon! What better of a pick me up then getting a book that I really worked on getting published?  Also other news I'll be helping in two blog tours! One is for Until Next Time by Amy Lignor the other is for Night Sky by Jolene Perry! I'm pretty excited for both, and hoping to do a blog tour myself if I can get Beneath the Scars out! It'll be fun and different for me! I feel like there is something else I'm forgetting to say...nothing knew...eep well hope that is everything!
~Ottilie

Brand New Store!

Hey Lovelies!Now you must be thinking, okay I don't live near this girl so what do I care about a new store opening up. If I were you I would be curious so here is the news! On top of Bucks County Publishing now making Family Ties permantly at the low price of $10 I did something myself! I had some trouble at first considering me and technology don't always get alon. It wasn't helping that I was also being attacked by our spazzy puppy. I finally did it though! I opened my own little store on CafePress and it is called Flipping through Pages!! I'm so excited and can't wait to add my other stories to it, but for now it is just Family Ties being featured! I'll be playing around more I hope you all enjoy and take a look! If you lose the link I added it to the contact me page!
~ottilie

What was under the tree...

Hey Lovelies!
I hope everyone had a lovely holiday season whether it was christmas, hanukkah, or even winter solstice!  Since last week and a little of the week before I was spreading the joy of book sales introducing the other authors that are in my publishing company.  I figured I would share the books I received for the holiday since everyone on Goodreads and facebook are doing that!  You guys should comment and share what you all got!

Here are some books that I'll get to read for fun!  Yes they are all sequals to books that I already have, well minus The Crucible...  However I did get TWO copies of The Frogotten Locket (Book 3 of the Hourglass Door) and I'm either going to sell it or use it for a giveaway on here ;)

 Oh! Oh! Lookie here I have joined the e-book world!  I'm still addicted to physical books, but for reviews or those books that I want that are just not available via physical book form!

Yes I realize I did not get End of the Line, Family Ties, or even Christmas Lites for christmas, but I didn't want to take apart books that were staying up!  In there is 5 screen writing books and one grammar book.  My one aunt wants me to start playing around with turning my books into screenplays, movies and such.  Could be fun :)

12th Day of Christmas! LAST DAY OF BOGO!!

Hey Lovelies!!
Today is the last day of BOGO for the discount that the list of books have than you can pick a book for free!!  I've been showing you all week books that are usually $14, $13, or so dollars, but with my publisher's deal you can get them now for $10 than a FREE book!!  If your wallet is as sad as mine I'm sure this is a deal that'll make you smile!  Here is the books:

Christmas StoriesBy Sandra Krajewski
Sandra Krajewski's Christmas Stories contains two heart warming tales of Christmas fun and tradition. In Just 7 Days Until Christmas follow the family as they count down the days until Christmas. In There's A Mouse in Our House, what happens when the traditional Christmas festivities are interrupted by a furry little intruder!

The Star of Christmas
By Bruce Sarte
For God so loved the world that he sent his only begotten son... but how did He choose the star to announce the birth of the Savior? Through this moving story of humilty and service to something bigger than ones self a holiday tradition is born! This fully illustrated story of God's servant is sure to become a staple in your holidays for years to come!

Countdown to Grandma's
by Sandra Krajewski
Enjoy the tradition and Countdown to Thanksgiving Day at Grandma's House with the whole family!

The Prophet
by Kim Dahl
After a three year search for a serial killer known as The Prophet, FBI agents Sean Sebastian and Rheta Morgan; both who have a personal reason to stop him, finally get a break and The Prophet is within their reach. Confrontation leads them to discover a secret network called the New Brotherhood and the more they find out about the New Brotherhood, the more determined they are to stop it. When The Prophet takes Rheta and Sean's sister hostage, the race is on to free them and bring down the Brotherhood.

Zombie Showdown
by Sean Sweeney
For a group of sophomores at Gardner High School, it turned out to be a class trip gone awry. For 15-year-old twins Christian and Rachel Sanderski, it was the opportunity to tell the truth. A zombie attack while the kids are on a ghost tour forces Christian to save a group of his friends. The events of the next day, though, lead to Chris and Rachel’s admission – they are the long lost descendants of a legendary gunman who once called Tombstone home. Their mother had forbidden them from saying a word about their genealogy in order to protect them. With the admission, a weight has lifted from their shoulders and, with the help of their friends, Christian and Rachel battle the zombies in a late night brawl. But when the kids are told of the coming of The Three dead cowboys their ancestor had sent to Boot Hill Cemetery, they steel themselves for the fact that they may never return home. Action and adventure, friends lost and friends found. And love, too…

NonSense
by Mark Davis
Are you tired of being lied to? Do you think our politicians and business leaders are simply looking down their collective noses at the pathetic condition of “We the people” because we are just so lacking their collective superior intellect? Do you feel these titans of intellect are the problem and not the solution? If so, give this little book with big ideas, a read and see what you as an individual feel. Nonsense is a creative, enlightening, and inspirational book for the common man. The quoted scriptures from the bible come into play breaking down similarities between Biblical times and now. From time to time we all need to look at the big picture, what is really going on in this world, stop thinking about what you are told and see things for what they really are. This book helps to open your mind and really look at what is going on around us and to learn from the mistakes of the past. For it is us, as individuals, that can make the change to make a more suitable future in which we all must live. If we as a nation can not pull ourselves together then we as a nation will fall.

Lancelot
by Steven Cross
When Lancelot’s family is destroyed and a strange wizard kidnaps him, Lancelot doesn’t know if he wants to go on living. But in her dying breath, his mother reveals to him that he is destined to be somebody special. However, when he loses his first true love to death and his second to politics, he feels as if nothing good will ever come to him. Add to that when he is possessed by three separate spirits at the same time -- all with a grudge against him things really take on a dark shading for poor Lancelot! When the two spirits who hate him team up with the one whose death he caused he finds himself thrust into the middle of a huge conflict. One that can not only destroy the Lady of the Lake, but also Camelot and another kingdom of which he has no part. When the wizard reveals to him that he is part of this kingdom that exists hundreds of years int he future Lancelot must act! With past, present, and future resting in his hands, Lancelot has to fight for his life and for the world.

Mouth to God's Ear
by Christopher Grosso
In the gritty novel Mouth to God’s Ear, God is leaving forever and it is going to be one hell of a farewell. Although 33 year old Brooklyn hospice counselor Godfrey Thorn should be enjoying the conventional pleasures of life, Godfrey (or God, as he is known) feels dead inside. So he has decided to fight with a mercenary group in an illegal war in some ‘godforsaken’ jungle in Africa. But on this, his final day before leaving for war, God says goodbye to a series of unsuspecting friends, relatives and ex-lovers. As the day turns to night, God’s narcissism escalates into a red-wake of shocking action and God soon finds himself hiding from the police and employing the very people he loathes in his escape from the country. And what’s with the mysterious cuts that have covered his hands since the morning?

Family Ties
by Ottilie Weber
Abby’s family prides itself with its knowledge of its rich family history. Unfortunately, they may be kidding themselves. While trying to survive her summer job armed only with her sarcastic wit and her best friend cory, she thinks things couldn’t get worse. But when she is kidnapped, she learns to be careful what she wishes for!

Fess Up, Jessup!
by KP Wee
J.J. Jessup, who’d been banished from the public school system for incidences of improper behavior, received a fresh start teaching at a private school for young adults.However, could a leopard change his spots? Could Jessup keep his hands off his new unsuspecting students?His boss, Joe, who knew about Jessup’s concealed past, warned him not to get involved with a bubbly, attractive 21-year-old student named Hye Yeong. Why was Joe so protective of that particular student? And why did Larry, who also worked in the school and was already in his 40’s, carry a picture of her secretly?Other than Jessup’s past, what other secrets were there at Westside International?Jessup was determined to find out how Hye Yeong was connected to both men, and to be with her…Fess Up, Jessup also contains the short-stories: Catching Eva and Mission at the J.This book also contains two other short stories, titled "Mission at the J." and "Catching Eva."

 

Bump in the Night 2011

Each year Bucks County Publishing brings you a collection of stories that will chill your bones and rattle your spine! Stories including a story written by a brain, nightmares that could come true, two brothers trapped in a foreign land, soccer playing zombies, talking poultry, bloody holiday cheer, an elevator from... and to hell plus a kidnapping psycho friend. So sit back, turn on a bright light, grab a warm blanket and whatever you do... don't read this alone! This year's SPECIAL HOLIDAY THEMED anthology includes: Red Christmas by Sean Sweeney The Show Must Go On by Bruce A. Sarte Child Christmas by Christopher Grosso Insanitree by Tim Reilly
List of all the FREE BOOKS!:

Bump in the Night 2010
Bucks County Publishing brings you five stories that will chill your bones! Stories including a story written by a brain, nightmares that could come true, two brothers trapped in a foreign land, soccer playing zombies, an elevator from... and to hell plus a kidnapping psycho friend. So sit back, turn on a bright light, grab a warm blanket and whatever you do... don't read this alone!

Murderous Intent
by K.J. Dahlen
When U.S. Marshal Lola Kane needs help with a witness, retired Marshal Boone Sheridan comes to her aid. Getting the witness, Faith Kessler, back to New York and outrunning several attempts to stop them Boone gets drawn back into the Marshals. Case Ewing wants Faith dead but not before he wants their son back. Faith has evidence that hit man Felix Harley needs to recover, but Felix has a personal reason to want Faith dead. She killed his brother when she made her escape. Felix is good but Boone is better and it’s a race to see which one will prevail.

Thunder Destroys Me
by Lisa Burke
Why are there so many people in bed with Charles and Lucy? Don’t worry, they’re only figments of Charles’ imagination. “Thunder Destroys Me” is a dark, unconventional novel about the agony of jealousy. Join Charles, the ugly, ill-mannered accountant, in his struggle to change his image in order to get the girl of his dreams. Watch him fight the evil Mind Militia, who attack him with messages of doom and hateful judgments. This illuminating story, complete with intriguing characters and scandalous surprises, will make you reassess what you think about thoughts.

Towering Pines
by Bruce Sarte
Towering Pines Volume One: Room 509 is the story of a teenage basketball star who feels his life is over when he is sent to military school to commute an aggravated assault charge. Liam Rider's star quickly falls as he finds military school to be far more than he had bargained for. He finds the cadets harsh and abrasive; and the staff less than welcoming. When the guidance counselor tells him that he is going to be held back a year because of his remedial classes at public school, he feels like life couldn't get any worse. When he meets Lisbeth Harrington, he feels like the tide may be turning in his favor. She is assigned to help him acclimate to his new surroundings in the middle of a semester and he quickly realizes that she is the only friend he has at the school. And when he begins having disturbing dreams of kids killing each other and seeing people in his room that aren't really there, he enlists he help to find out why no one has been assigned to room 509 for twenty years — and why he is being tormented by the ghosts of cadets past. Suddenly pulled into the past of the historic school by nightmares of his own suicide, Liam and Lisbeth are catapulted forward into a secretive society of a long history of ghosts, suicide and murder. Can they solve the mysteries of the military school before Liam becomes the next victim of the ghostly murderer? Or will the administration and cadets conspire against them to their ultimate demise?

Sands of Time
by Bruce Sarte
In one tragic moment, Sam Shepard's family was gone.... His wife and children are taken from him in a tragic accident following a bitter argument. Sam is left alone struggling with the mountain of guilt and the chasm of grief that he can only fill with alcohol. When a young, attractive woman comes to stay at his Inn, Sam thinks his luck might be changing. She brings him comfort and a kindred spirit suffering through her own loss. Is she the answer everything he has been suffering through for all this time? Soon after, Sam begins to have dreams about his dead wife and hallucinate her speaking to him. Has the alcohol finally gotten the best of him... or is it really the hands of death reaching out? ** This is a special, enhanced edition of this popular novel, Sands of Time. It includes a sneak-peak at Bruce's second novel -- Towering Pines Volume One: Room 509 as a bonus! **

Naomi's Journeys
by Sandra Krajewski
Naomi grew up hearing stories from her Gran Gran... and then she started living them! Join Naomi as she travels through history and meets with great historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, Cesar Chavez and more!

A Hot Dry Spell
by H. Lindley
Everybody is misunderstood sometimes, so why does Grainger think he will have no problem? He knows all the words, he is focused on his mission and he thinks faster than any human on earth. So why is he having such a terrible time fitting in and making sense of life on our planet? Join Grainger on his malapropistic journey and discover true meaning ... and context. A Hot Dry Spell, miscommunication on an intergalactic scale.

Day 11!!

Hey Lovelies!!
Today is Day 11 of the BOGO of the 12 days of christmas!!  My publisher realized he was a day short so tomorrow will be the array of books but today is Bump in the Night 2011!!  It is a collection of scary stories that will have you running for cover under your blankets!  READ WITH THE LIGHTS ON!  Check out the book that is now $10 instead of amazon's $13!!!

Bump in the Night 2011
several authors!

Each year Bucks County Publishing brings you a collection of stories that will chill your bones and rattle your spine! Stories including a story written by a brain, nightmares that could come true, two brothers trapped in a foreign land, soccer playing zombies, talking poultry, bloody holiday cheer, an elevator from... and to hell plus a kidnapping psycho friend. So sit back, turn on a bright light, grab a warm blanket and whatever you do... don't read this alone! This year's SPECIAL HOLIDAY THEMED anthology includes: Red Christmas by Sean Sweeney The Show Must Go On by Bruce A. Sarte Child Christmas by Christopher Grosso Insanitree by Tim Reilly

10th day of BOGO!!

Hey Lovelies!
Today is day 10th day of 12 days of Christmas BOGO!!  It is nearing the end are you guys taking advantage of theses deals???  Bucks County Publishing's book that is discounted today before you get the free book is...Fess up, Jessup! by KP Wee i hope you all check out this book!!

Fess Up, Jessup!
by KP Wee
J.J. Jessup, who’d been banished from the public school system for incidences of improper behavior, received a fresh start teaching at a private school for young adults.However, could a leopard change his spots? Could Jessup keep his hands off his new unsuspecting students?His boss, Joe, who knew about Jessup’s concealed past, warned him not to get involved with a bubbly, attractive 21-year-old student named Hye Yeong. Why was Joe so protective of that particular student? And why did Larry, who also worked in the school and was already in his 40’s, carry a picture of her secretly?Other than Jessup’s past, what other secrets were there at Westside International?Jessup was determined to find out how Hye Yeong was connected to both men, and to be with her…Fess Up, Jessup also contains the short-stories: Catching Eva and Mission at the J.This book also contains two other short stories, titled "Mission at the J." and "Catching Eva."

9th day of bogo me! and sneak peek news! ;)

Hey Lovelies!Bucks County Publishing's 12 Days of Christmas continues and today's my book FAMILY TIES!!!  Hehe pretty awsome!  My book today if you buy off my publisher's site, instead of it's $14 on Amazon you can get for $10 PLUS another book for FREE!!  So exciting and I'm really hoping people take advantage of the offer, I'm a book addict I love taking advantage of deals like that!

On top of sharing that deal with you all I want to tell you about a little project that I've been working on that will be fun!  I'll be setting up a little store on CafePress!  Don't know what CafePress is?  It is a site where you can upload images onto stickers, shirts, mugs, and so much more!  I'll be setting up a little store on there and till End of the Line's new cover is done Family Ties will be the main spotlight.  I'll be setting up a contest soon for a design soon so stay in touch!  And get your thinking caps ready to think of a design that would go along with Family Ties ;)

So here is today's BCP's spotlight!
Family Ties
Ottilie Weber

Abby’s family prides itself with its knowledge of its rich family history. Unfortunately, they may be kidding themselves. While trying to survive her summer job armed only with her sarcastic wit and her best friend cory, she thinks things couldn’t get worse. But when she is kidnapped, she learns to be careful what she wishes for!

Day 2 of BOGO 12 Days of Christmas!

Hey Lovelies!
Today is day 2 of my publisher's 12 Days of Christmas!  Today and tomorrow will be more children books before you get more into the Young Adult and Adult.  Today is The Star of Christmas by Bruce Sarte.  Bruce is not only the owner of BCP, but author of a few different stories!  He also filled out my questions for the authors for the 12 Days of Christmas!  So you'll get to know this author!

The Star of Christmas
For God so loved the world that he sent his only begotten son... but how did He choose the star to announce the birth of the Savior? Through this moving story of humilty and service to something bigger than ones self a holiday tradition is born! This fully illustrated story of God's servant is sure to become a staple in your holidays for years to come! 

Interview:

1. how long have you been writing?

I've been writing since I was eleven or twelve.  I started out writing lyrics for songs, then learned how to write music and moved on to short stories and novels.

2. where did you get the idea for this book?
The idea for The Star of Christmas came about when I was invited to read out loud at the bonfire at Overly's Country Christmas in Greensburg, PA.  Overly's is avery family oriented Christmas Village so I thought that I should come up with something reasonably short and family friendly that fit well with a Christian family crowd.  Thus The Star of Christmas as a simple story was born.  When I left, Stephanie at Overly's invited me back to read again and I thought that I should expand on the story somewhat — try and give folks something they can take home with them.  I recruited my brother-in-law, Jason Gerick, to do some illustrations and the illustrated holiday story that you see before you is the result.

3. what is your favorite thing about writing?
The same thing as reading… I love escaping into different worlds, different times and different places… and even some fantastical imaginings on events.  Being able to transport myself is the first part of transporting the reader.
4. what is your favorite TV show?
That's a tough one… I think it is either Psych or The Simpsons.
5. what did you do when you got your acceptance letter from BCP?
I proof read it. :)
6. Growing up what was your favorite book?
I think that the first thing that I read that made me want to re-read it over and over again was probably The Scarlett Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
7. What is one thing that you are asking for this year for christmas?
A Star Trek Captain Kirk Bathrobe (in yellow of course — see think geek.com) :)
8. Are you working on another story now? If so what about.
I am currently finishing final revisions before editing on Philadelphia Story, a hard boiled detectible thriller.
9. what is your favorite genre that you write?
I've written vampire, paranormal, children's and now detective… and I think the detective genre is my favorite.  It allows me to create heroes and villains in a believable — and unbelievable way.  I find that is thrilling and fun in its own right.
10. what is your favorite dessert?
Crème Brûlée
11. if you can bring any character from a book to life who would it be and why?
Elvis Cole from Robert Crais' novels.  Well, his name IS Elvis after all.  And, more importantly, he has a great sense of the situation within the stories which allows him to be funny and tough at the same time.

12. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
I love decorating the tree each year.  My children get bigger every year (as they should) but watching what the ritual of the tree is to them and how it changes every year is just a lot of fun.


Books by Bruce that are on the FREE list.

Towering Pines Volume One: Room 509 is the story of a teenage basketball star who feels his life is over when he is sent to military school to commute an aggravated assault charge. Liam Rider's star quickly falls as he finds military school to be far more than he had bargained for. He finds the cadets harsh and abrasive; and the staff less than welcoming. When the guidance counselor tells him that he is going to be held back a year because of his remedial classes at public school, he feels like life couldn't get any worse. When he meets Lisbeth Harrington, he feels like the tide may be turning in his favor. She is assigned to help him acclimate to his new surroundings in the middle of a semester and he quickly realizes that she is the only friend he has at the school. And when he begins having disturbing dreams of kids killing each other and seeing people in his room that aren't really there, he enlists he help to find out why no one has been assigned to room 509 for twenty years — and why he is being tormented by the ghosts of cadets past. Suddenly pulled into the past of the historic school by nightmares of his own suicide, Liam and Lisbeth are catapulted forward into a secretive society of a long history of ghosts, suicide and murder. Can they solve the mysteries of the military school before Liam becomes the next victim of the ghostly murderer? Or will the administration and cadets conspire against them to their ultimate demise?

In one tragic moment, Sam Shepard's family was gone.... His wife and children are taken from him in a tragic accident following a bitter argument. Sam is left alone struggling with the mountain of guilt and the chasm of grief that he can only fill with alcohol. When a young, attractive woman comes to stay at his Inn, Sam thinks his luck might be changing. She brings him comfort and a kindred spirit suffering through her own loss. Is she the answer everything he has been suffering through for all this time? Soon after, Sam begins to have dreams about his dead wife and hallucinate her speaking to him. Has the alcohol finally gotten the best of him... or is it really the hands of death reaching out? ** This is a special, enhanced edition of this popular novel, Sands of Time. It includes a sneak-peak at Bruce's second novel -- Towering Pines Volume One: Room 509 as a bonus! **

Winner! And first day of Christmas!

Hey Lovelies!
I'm posting today because using RANDOM.org I chose the winner of the ebook copy of Cambria Hebert's Masquerade!  The book is a whirlwind Paranormal Romance that will make the readers fall in love.  The winner is Kelly!! I have emailed Kelly to tell her she won.  If you did not win don't worry Cambria has a paperback copy on Goodreads up for grabs, check her out more on her site.  I'll probably host a couple giveaways in the furture, including my own books!  I'm pretty excited for that.








Just also as a reminder my publisher Bucks County Publishing is doing the 12 Days of christmas, I'm trying to convince my BCP family to invade my blog while this event is going on so that you guys can meet them.  Put a voice to those books.  As a reminder the 12 Days of Christmas is each day (here is the list of what book is what day) a different BCP book will be dicounted to $10 instead of it's usual price, then when you are checking out you can pick a FREE book (here's the list).  So I really hope you guys take advantage of it, you can get one for you and one for someone as a gift.  Today is Christmas Stories by Sandra Krajewski

Sandra Krajewski's Christmas Stories contains two heart warming tales of Christmas fun and tradition. In Just 7 Days Until Christmas follow the family as they count down the days until Christmas. In There's A Mouse in Our House, what happens when the traditional Christmas festivities are interrupted by a furry little intruder!

Sample Sunday & Upcoming week!

Hey Lovelies!

This upcoming week is the last week of classes for me for the semester! I can't believe how fast the semester goes and I can't wait for it to end! I'll have more time to write and read when the semester is over and hopefully finish up Project US for my publisher. I got through a big dent of Project US so I'm not too concern as long as I keep up the momoment that I have been. When that is in to the publisher I'll work more on Walking a (the) Thin Line and Beneath the Scars (loving it!). I'll be going away for a week in January also so good relaxation and away from everything. I had some boy drama this week so to get away is totally appealing! Well last Sample Sunday I was torn between Project US and Beneath the Scars, since Project US won last time I'll show you the full chapter two of Beneath the Scars this Week!

Before I show you the chapter I want to tell you what else will be happening this week on the blog it will be busier then ever! Tuesday I will be involved in the Heaven and Hell Book Tour for the debuting author and friend Cambria Hebert! I will be hosting a character interview with her character Heven and be giving away an ecopy of her book Masquerade! I'll probably hold open the giveaway a day or two just have to double check with Cambria then on Friday I will finally be revealing the book trailer for End of the Line! I have to fix it up a little because when I got the new computer I got the new edition of the program I was using so things are a little mixed up. Maybe in a week or two I'll reveal the new cover of End of the Line! So so much is happening and I hope you follow this blog so that you can keep in the loop with it all!

The chapter is kind of short!  Just remember this is my modern Beauty and the Beast story, you'll see that in later chapters.  Now for the sample!

Beneath the Scars

Chapter Two

Eponine

Genevieve sat in the seat behind me with a tennis ball in her hands, her little fingers running over the green fuzzy surface as Bubbles was squished in the backseat of the car with her.  His furry head resting on Genevieve’s lap, ears pointed up in the air as his eyes followed the ball in her small hands, yet he was well trained not to try to steal the ball from her.  The two were very quiet in the car as I glanced into review mirror at them.

“So I’m thinking of maybe having a little camp out in the family room till we have the place set up, couldn’t that be cool?” I spoke up as I peeked into the review mirror again as Genevieve just shrugged her shoulders.

I chewed on my lip, the pasted couple of month had been hard, and that was the understatement of the year.

“I don’t want to go to a new school,” Genevieve grumbled her voice was more upset then a pout.

“I know Genevieve, I really tried looking for a new place in the same school district, but they didn’t have anything in our price range, we are just one town over so the drive will be quick,” I answered kindly my own heart heavy with emotions.

“It’s not the same right Bubbles,” Genevieve responded as she scratched behind Bubble’s ear, her little hand disappearing in his fur, finally giving the dog his ball causing loud thumps of his tail in a cramp area.

“I know, I am taking off school this semester too remember, then going to change schools in the fall to take care of you.  I have a job set up so that I can pick you up after school.  That way we can get your homework done while cooking dinner, plus do you know how many places don’t accept German Sheppard in rentals?” I asked as Bubbles raised his almost to object to that statement.

“But Bubbles is so nice, but he takes up too much of my bed,” Genevieve retorted she was ten and didn’t fully understand despite his sweet depiction some people were afraid of that breed and when we tell them ours is named Bubbles, the stares we get don’t help.

“Don’t blame me if he thinks you are his puppy friend,” I laughed as the radio station went to a commercial.

“He doesn’t like your stinky perfume,” Genevieve shot back with a smile almost touching her face.

“Hey we both know my perfume is the essence of awesomeness,” I tried pulling off with a straight face as I reached back shaking her knee, she giggled.

“Hey don’t do that!”

“Why because you laughed?” I asked smiling glancing back in the review mirror.

“No…”

I pulled into the apartment complex, into the parking spot that had our apartment number on it.  The moving truck pulled up behind us as the two men started to go in the back to help bring in some of the stuff that we were able to keep.  Moving from our parent’s big home to the apartment was a challenge of what we could bring with us and what had to be sold.  Getting out of the car I led the way quickly to show them where to put the furniture.  Unlocking the door I nearly held my breath not believing that this was truly happening.  Leaving the door open I went back down to see Genevieve getting out of the car with Bubbles shortly behind her, ball still in mouth.  The two were just sitting in the parking lot watching the big men carry the pieces into our new place.  My heart kept pulsing fast, feeling anxious as each piece was brought into the unknown area.  I had to be strong for my sister.

“When will the TV be on?” Genevieve asked a couple of hours later.

I was in the kitchen putting away the silverware in addition to the plates as I heard Bubbles finding an open toilet.  Dogs could find that water bowl easily no matter if it was a new place.  Scrunching my face I went to the kitchen table looking for the box with his dishes.

“Ep when-“

“Genevieve, I will call the cable people tomorrow after work.  Till then how about you start unpacking your room,” I called from the other room knowing that she wasn’t going to agree to that.

Bubble’s nails scrapped against the title as water dripped from his muzzle.

“That’s boring,” Genevieve whined as I heard a tennis ball being bounced, Bubbles perked up rushing out of the room.

A low bark followed by a whimper.

“Bubbles come back that’s my ball!” Genevieve yelled as she chased after the dog.

“Guys we have people living under us now watch your noise level!” I called out again with my eyes closed running my fingers through my hair.  “You know better then to tease him.”

Chinese food was seriously taking a long time to come.

“Genevieve, unpack while we are waiting for food so that you can enjoy your bed tonight.”

She groaned as I heard stomps towards her new room that was separated by a bathroom between the two rooms.  Pausing with my own unpacking I heard her moving boxes around then went back to work myself.  When I finished up the kitchen and started on the living area just as the Chinese food was delivered.  Carrying the bag of food into the kitchen pushing aside empty boxes I placed everything down.

“Genevieve, dinner,” I called as I was placing the table.

Nails and footsteps thundered towards me.  I pulled two plates out of a cabinet along with a few odds and ends.  Setting the table for us as Genevieve filled Bubbles’ dish with dog food sneaking in another cup.  She than plopped down at the other chair and started to mix her chicken and rice.  Bubbles soon sat besides her smacking his lips with his nose at the table level.

“Do you think Bubbles wants Chinese food because it’s made out of cats?” Genevieve asked shoveling a big bite into her mouth.

Her free hand went to pet the top of Bubbles’ head as he just wiggled a bit more interested in her food then the attention for the moment.  He just sat down with a noticeable thud hoping that would earn him a treat.  No such luck as I scratched behind his ear breaking his concentration.  Bubbles moved his head from my sister and I, not sure which would give him his second dinner.

“Genevieve that’s just gross and wrong, don’t say things like that.  Plus Bubbles is a dog, their stomachs are bottomless pits.  They will eat anything and everything in sight.”

Genevieve quickly swallowed, “Well Bobby said in China they eat cats!”

“Gen I assure you, we-are-not-eating cats,” I responded slowly trying to make sure another food wasn’t crossed off her will eat list, it was ever growing shorter.

“All lies!” Genevieve proclaimed sticking her fork high in the air with a piece of chicken that only to have it fall from her utensils never touching the floor.  “See cat!”

Bobby was going to be the death of me and was Genevieve’s best friend.  Taking a sip of my drink I watched my family.  Genevieve sat there meowing at her food while Bubbles sat there fully aware of the world around his that was the plate and him.

Sighing I took another look around the rooms after dinner I prepared the bathroom and Genevieve’s room because she hadn’t done so.  I just needed normalcy and that meant a home that was unpacked, seeming like we were living there instead of just moving in.  My room was the only room left and I was exhausted.  Peeking into Genevieve’s room to check in on her the room was still.  Her eyes were close as one of her arms dangled off the bed and onto Bubbles who was laying by her bed, staying guard to his buddy.  Genevieve’s light brown hair was behind her as she was finally calm, quiet and not meowing.  Closing the door mostly, leaving it open just enough for Bubbles to walk out if he wanted.

Wandering out myself I went for a breath of fresh air to help wake me up a little before I finished the unpacking.  Leaving the door open I walked out into the ledge of our floor.  The sound of cars driving echoed into the parking lot below.  The warm was cooler than before against my arms that were exposed by my short sleeves.  The cars caught the moon light as I glanced around with heavy eyelids.

Leaning against the railing, my hands folded together dropping my head as my eyes watered.  From mixture of tiredness and the world falling to pieces, I wasn’t sure.  A door creaked open.  Lifting my head to the opposite side of the outdoor hallway a dark figure moved out of the door, closing it swiftly as he jogged down the stairs on that end.  With my eyes narrowed I observed him fix his hood of his sweatshirt to shield his face.  He rushed into his car to speed off.  Driving off I wondered what kind of area I moved into.

Sample Sunday!

Hey Lovelies!
Today is sunday which means Sample Sunday!  Even as I am typing this, I'm not sure which chapter 2 I will be posting today!  I finished chapter one of Walking a Thin Line (End of the Line 2) on friday, but since it is a sequel I do not think I should post the chapter considering it will give away so much of the first book I'm trying to re-release.  So I guess I'll be holding that secert a little longer, which is so hard to do!  So yes I'm have been working on Walking a(the) Thin Line and Invisible Bonds which is Family Ties 2, but I'm really trying to give a story to my publisher in a couple of months.  I really want to give either Project US or Beneath the Scars to BCP, but right now the two are in different stages and seirously fighting for attention.  Project US will probably win that one with Beneath the Scars probably not too much further behind, probably submit over the summer.  I am loving Beneath the Scars, it is different then what I have written, and I just have been having so much fun writing it.  The two will be as a warning my top two romances, I'm hoping that the two will stand out for their love stories.  Yes there is love in Family Ties and End of the Line, but it's not the same level, but there is thrill in Project US and Beneath the Scars so don't worry!  Oh I really don't know which one I want to post!

Well I guess I'm posting from Project US!  Today you'll be seeing one of the leading men in my stories over the years.  Nick was created based off a dream I had (which unforunatly had a real guy in my grade, so he has picked a couple of his characteristics) freshman year of high school. Nick is a big player in the Men of Ottilie Line up! My friends at the time read this story as I wrote it so this story because a big part of anyone who knew me in high school.  There will be a bunch of people really excited for when this is published.  So much of me has gone into this story it's going to be amazing feeling when I am actually able to get it published.  So Nick was has set the stage for most of my stories for the leading male characters, usually they get compared to him by my friends.  He is one of my favorite (shhh don't tell the other characters!).  When I'm revisiting Project US I'm reliving the fun of this story and fixing it up.  When I'm done editing it I probably will have a couple of my friends read it to see if they like the changes I'm doing lately.  Really curious what they'll think.

Project US

Chapter Two

Nick

I crossed the entryway, my hand behind my back to close the room behind us.  Rachel turned around, probably thinking she’d close the door herself.  She came chest to chest, face to nap of my neck.  I grinned.  Rachel’s cheeks had pink spread across them, so her.  Her eyes were glued to the floor as the door clicked behind us.  I watched her whole upper body rise, filling up like a balloon before letting out a long breath.  Rachel always has been funny to embarrass.  I held back laughter.  I didn’t want to make her completely uncomfortable.

The hall was surprisingly quiet.  Rachel was a step or two ahead of me despite her shorter legs.  My eyes glimpsed over to her.  Rachel’s hair was just short of her wait, blond with smooth waves that flowed down from the top of her head to the tips of her strands.  Her coat was button and tied close to her upper body and overlapping those dark blue jeans of hers.  Rachel’s white little sneakers just peaking out of the bottom of her pants, no I wasn’t studying her.

I reached around her when we reached the end of the hall to open the door before her.  She titled her head to some extent so that her big green eyes would meet mine.  The corners of her lips turned ever so slightly.

“Thanks,” She spoke.

“No problem, Rachel,” I responded.

Rachel started to hop down the stairs.  When I say hop, I mean quite literally bouncing down the stairs like a small child.  I took each step in hast to keep up with her.  It was probably not wise to lose a short woman on a mission.  My sister and mother proved that one.  I was the youngest of four, two older brothers and an older sister.  Plus I’ve had classes long enough with Rachel to know the teachers were going to fix our room situation.  When we reached the bottom of the platform we made our way out into the lobby to be seeing our grade traveling as a herd into another room, a big room filled with tables and chairs for dinning, most likely was used for conferences that came to the hotel.  I glanced down at Rachel who shrugged her shoulders as we followed.  We were ushered to a random table.

I sit in the chair, closed my eyes for a moment and stretched wishing that I could just go to sleep already to make up for waking up so freaking early this morning for this stupidity.  My siblings took this trip in eighth grade, my brothers felt the need to brag about the fact they didn’t have a project like us.  My sister smacked them with a spatula when she was cooking to get them to shut up.  That started a food fight in the March household.  We were just lucky my Mom came home before my Dad otherwise we would have been doomed.  Mom got the last bit by shoving spaghetti sauce in all of our hairs then made us clean up before Dad came home.  I love my family.

“It kind of looks like everyone is paired up when they are coming in here,” Rachel spoke in a low voice, disbelief in every word.

Oh god girls were absolutely crazy!

“Rachel I think you’ve been too many of your weird plot book,” I started thinking about when the plot of some book I think was called Flowers in the Attic came up with some students before class started, Rachel straightened out the facts which left me never to look at her the same way.  “We go to a public school we are not people in a dating service.”

I shook my head as she raised an eyebrow at me.

“Don’t patronize me Nicholas, look around the room,” Rachel muttered, she just had to use my whole name.

I narrowed my eyes as her gleamed.  I rolled my eyes as I scanned the room, observed more of my peers enter the room.

“Okay, maybe you aren’t’ completely crazy,” I spoke under my breath and she stuck her tongue out at me.

I returned the reaction and she giggled.  I smiled.  This was so normal for us.  I really wish Rachel wasn’t right so much.

“Yo, dude what the hell is happening?” A slap on my back came.

I peaked over my shoulder and grinned.

“Dill if I knew I’d think about telling you for a good price,” Dill my great for years.

Dill, Mark, John, and I were part of a close nitch group, each person coming in at different years.  Dill and I were probably the longest in the group then John later in elementary school when he moved into our town.  Then Mark moved into our town in middle school with his Uncle, we were all a little different yet still had fun busting each others chops.  What else are guy friends for?

Dill had his dark hair in his usual short cut.  I did not know how he could handle half inch of hair.  I liked being able to have hair to run my hands through.  I would never tell my friends that, the girl jokes that I would get.  Dill had dark eyes and was a little shorter then me.  Dill sat in a chair across from me, slouching back in the chair.  Next to him glared Rachel’s dark clothing wearing Bridget, big hair and all.

“Hey Rachel maybe you had a point in being pessimistic on whole drive here,” Bridget still kept her eyes on Dill who looked just as thrilled as her.

“Schools you can’t trust them,” Rachel responded, but she was turned around not facing the three of us still surveying the room, her voice was distant.

“Rach, you okay?” I asked placing a hand on her should, she withdrew her body from me.

“Do not touch me,” Rachel snapped, even through her jacket I could see her shoulders tense.

I tried to remember her friends hugging her in the halls like some of the other girls did.  I couldn’t think of a time I’d see that.  Actually thinking back to eighth grade graduation she was laughing at those crying.  She kept shouting something ‘you’ll see them in three months!’ over and over.  I rolled my eyes, she’ll calm down eventually.

Principal O’Doherty stepped up to the front of the room.

“Students quiet down, quiet down!” his stern voice cutting through the voices of the sophomore class.

A middle age man with brown hair that was speckled with gray and white hairs that I could see even in the distance that I was at.  Microphone was in a hand of his while his other hand was free to be able to expressive.  I scooted the chair a little so that I could see the principal, leaning back I watched around Rachel’s blond head.  Principal O’Doherty was a tall lean man who always wore a pressed suit that always seemed to hang just a smig on his frame.  Back when my siblings were in high school he was a decent guy, but apparently a few years ago his wife and him started having issues in their marriage.  Rumors spread around the school that his wife left him, that they spilt up, that there was a full on battle of a divorce, that one of them was caught cheating, you think of a piece of gossip it was mentioned.  Ever since then Principal O’Doherty has been a hard-ass, ruling Adams High with an iron fist that is so very needed apparently for a very low key suburban town.

“Before you continue to barmaid the teachers to fix your room arrangements, there was no mistakes made that is your roommate,” Principal O’Doherty paced, his eyes scanning the room that was now hushed except a few whispers.  One of his hands was somewhat open, rolling around in the air as he spoke.  “The project will be taking the next few months, possibly longer depending on how things go.  Spending more time with your partners will help the project develop for the full experience.”

He stopped in the center of the platform upfront.  Principal O’Doherty’s body was directly facing the middle of the study body.  All of us waited for him to continue so we would finally hear the details of the allege project.  My eyes drifted down from Principal O’Doherty and to Rachel.  The girl was stressing from the moment the permission slips were passed out during homeroom!  Rachel’s emotions weren’t fully fury or crazed, but more curiosity and dread of who she would be paired up with.  GPA was a heavy top with her, she was the type to stress over that since kindergarten.  When our friends were a little side tracked I tried to calm the nut job that is female.  I told Rachel worse comes to worse she messed with the person, she didn’t respond well to that.

“We want our students at Adams High to be able to enter the real world prepared for life and what will come their way.  We have a reputation to with keep.  Now I’m sure you students have seen over the years seen on television or even from grades above you the marriage project.  You and your partner will learn to corporate with each other, in addition to basic skills it takes for a couple to function in a marriage.”

“Oh for the love of god,” Rachel mumbled under her breath, with her elbow resting on the table she leaned her head against her hand.

I might never have had been Rachel’s number one friend, but I do try to look out for her.  I admit that I have been known to pick on her over the years, but I was never that bad.  I’m not that mean like I tell her to stand up for herself against others.  My picking is more like joking between the two of us then harshness.  For example a few guys made a nickname for her (that she hates) and I call her that sometimes.  At the same time I tell her to tell on them since a teacher heard someone saying it to her and told them to stop.  When I do push her buttons it always seemed different I can’t explain it, but it just was.  It was also written on her face that it was unlike when I do call her it the once in a blue moon I do call her worm.  She doesn’t have the look of ‘I hate you go die’.

I leaned close to her.

“You could have been paired up with someone worse Rachel,” I whispered to her, red spread across her side of her face.

Rachel always turned red.  I smirked.  Her chin was almost against her shoulder so that she could almost see me.  A hair tie held her hair back in a ponytail as that her hair was out of her face.  She placed her index finger over her lips.

“I’m hoping that even though we paired a bunch of high schooled students together that with this assignment that you all will act as young adults instead of hormone driven teenagers,” Principal O’Doherty continued voice still stern despite the catcalls that followed.

I looked around at all the tables.  There were the girls who did their make up between classes with guys from honors class then there were some with guys that they wouldn’t usually take a second glance at.  Football players with cheerleaders and some with girls from ROTC.  I smiled at the so called social spectrum being scrambled.  I peeked over at my friend Dill he rolled his eyes once he saw that I was watching him.

“Since it’s still decent hour in the afternoon we are going to have you in your groups get organized then head over to the historical sight.  Watch for your chaperones and remember you are representing Adams High on this field trip so behavior yourselves.”

The teachers started to line up in front of the room to get our attention, but the chatter of the room just grew by the second.  Dill rolled his eyes as Bridget next to him was putting on her long black coat, ignoring the guy beside her.  I glance over to Rachel who was always bundled up in class.  She was still wearing her coat, her hands buried deep in her pockets.  Rachel was already standing up as if I was taking too long.

“Ready to head over?” Rachel asked her green eyes on me, her voice light.

I shrugged my shoulders and followed her through the mob of students.  I was almost tempted to grab onto her hand so that I wouldn’t lose her in the crowd.  With her tiny stature she was having an easier time zipping through the people.  I had to watch to trail after her.  Rachel kept her arms curled into her chest as she weaved.  I did not want to lose her.  I was squishing myself between people to keep up with her.  She finally stopped near the teacher, scanning over her shoulder till she found me.  Squeezing through the last couple of people I made my way next to Rachel whose head came about the nap of my neck.

We moved out of the room and got onto our newly designated buses.  The bus ride was short for us to get to Williamsburg.  Everyone was talking madly about this new news.  We had to share a room with the opposite sex.  The guys were either complaining about the girl they were with, celebrating that they got the hottie they wanted to talk to in class, but couldn’t, or were too embarrassed to say anything.  I didn’t really know how to respond to my situation.  Here I was with Rachel.  I kept glancing over at Rachel who was staring out the window the whole ride.

We arrived at Williamsburg with me wondering if this was a good pairing or not as they gave us our badges to prove that we were on a school trip together.  I got off the bus and waited for the rest of my group.  Rachel stood there next to me waiting like me.  She was shaking, but wore a coat with her hands still well hidden in her jacket.  Yet I was fine and I had a lighter coat then her.

“You okay?” I asked titling my head so that I could catch her eyes.

“Eh,” she mumbled with a shrug, her body swaying slightly.

“Give me your hands,” I spoke holding my hands out she raised an eyebrow at me.

“Ha, no,” Rachel snorted.

I raised my own brow as I kept an eye on her during the tour.  We walked on the dirt path though the colony just like they did during all those years ago.  After having American history taught to us since kindergarten it is nice to actually see what was being shoved down our throats.  We saw people in costumes and buildings from that era.  There were a few people in horse drawn carriages too.  A couple of guys started to point and laugh at the horse droppings.  It is amazing how some teenagers aren’t much different from preschoolers.  There was also some talk of trying to get the people out of their character.  If anyone from my group could get the colony people out of their character that would be very funny, I’m not going to lie.  Yet my eyes kept peeking over at Rachel to check up on her.

“It’s nice here,” Rachel spoke through my chattering teeth, crossing her arms firmly across her chest wanting warmth.

“It’s okay,” I responded not really paying full attention to this simple place.

I really couldn’t wait to leave this part to get her back inside and me some food.  I couldn’t figure out why our school couldn’t have gone to the sight in the spring when it was warmer and there was less of a chance for the students getting sick.  My own fingers fidgeted at my sides restraining myself from forcing my own coat onto Rachel.  She would likely throw a tantrum proclaiming she was fine and didn’t need my help.

We were at Williamsburg for a few hours before we headed back onto the bus to return to the hotel from our adventure.  We went arrived at the hotel rooms to get ready for dinner, as a mob trying to funnel all those bodies into one door, and then half wanting to take the elevators out of laziness while the rest of us tried to fit in the stairs all at once.  So many people in tight corridors, I hated every single second of it.  I was having trouble staying close to Rachel, in the madness thanking that we were only on the second floor.  Despite how I knew she would react I grabbed onto Rachel’s elbow and dragged her through the massive amount of people through the floor door before we made our way down the hall after she wiggled her way out of my hold.  We didn’t have to get changed into nicer clothes for dinner, but were given time to go to the bathroom or get a sweatshirt kind of ordeal.

Rachel was fixing her hair even though it was tied back small pieces had escaped from its prison.  The hair tie was pulled out completely as she worked out the knots the wind had caused.  Our jackets were tossed carelessly to the side of the room so that now her hair was down against her long sleeve shirt which hung slightly baggy on her so that the fabric did not cling onto her female body then.  She fixed her hair so that the strands were neither too high on her head nor loose at the top of her neck.  The light catching the waves of her hair that rolled down her back.

“I’m still freezing!” Rachel said breaking the silence as realized that I was staring at her.

“Do you want to borrow a sweatshirt?” I asked her as she spun her body so that she was positioned in front of me.

“I’ll be fine thanks though,” she answered quickly; she crossed her arms over her chest as she scanned the room.

I raised an eyebrow at the girl before me

“It won’t kill you to accept help; I’m just offering a sweatshirt.  I promise no harm can come from a sweatshirt,” I ranted, hands coming out of my pockets out with entheises.

She rolled her eyes shifting her weight from one leg to the other.  The room filled up in utter silence and not the comfortable kind.  I ran my fingers through my hair as I as comfortable like the time I wore the wool sweater my great aunt got me for Christmas when I was younger.  Then there was silence that filled the room awkwardly just like the first day of school and trying to scan the cafeteria for a friend.

“So are you ready to go,” I asked, my voice was more tender then earlier ailing myself to lock eyes, my blue ones with her green.

“Sure,” Rachel responded, her voice with a tint of bitterness or annoyance I wasn’t sure with her.

“I wonder what we’ll have for dinner,” I thought out loud.

Rachel chuckled.

“You and your stomach!”

I put my hands on my stomach.

“My stomach and I have gotten through some pretty awesome meals over the years.”

I grinned as I looked down at her as we made our way back to the dinning hall.  She raised her eyebrow at me.

“Are you in a relationship with your stomach?” Rachel asked.

“A very nice one if you ask me.”

“We are going to fail,” Rachel muttered as she fiddled with her necklace.

“Nah, you wouldn’t know how to fail if you were given instructions,” I snorted.

“If I was given instructions how could I fail?” she asked.

“Don’t poke holes in my logic!” I responded quickly before poking her dangling earring.

“Aw, but, but Nick it’s fun,” Rachel faked a whine.

I grinned, I haven’t seen too much of this side of Rachel before.  She always seemed to have her guard up, also known as, ‘this is school, things need to get done!’

“Whatever Blondie,” I chuckled.

“Don’t call me that,” she laughed, her voice stern though.

Silence overcame us yet I could see her in the corner of my eye attempting to hold back her smile by pressing her lips together and biting down.  A lopsided grin formed on my own face.  Walking into the conference room the students were all over the place, so Rachel and I took our seats from earlier.

“Hey Rachel!” Bridget waved as we got to the table her eyes covered in dark make-up.

“Hey Bridget I see you haven’t killed Dill yet,” Rachel spoke up while Dill had his back to us all so that his attention seemed to be elsewhere.

Bridget glared at the brunette next to her.

“Don’t tempt me,” was all that Bridget muttered.

I chuckled, oh how I knew Dill was.  Part of the guy code, make fun of each other.

“Yo,” I called over which got Dill’s attention.

Dill half turned, did a half wave before finishing off his conversation with someone from the table near us.  I rolled my eyes.  What a buddy.  Rachel besides me let out a giggle probably at something Bridget had said.  She glanced down at the placing before her.  I shook my attention as food was placed in front of me which I dug right into without a second thought.  I didn’t even try to attempt to start up again a conversation with Dill who usually was as enthusiastic as me with food.  I kept peeking over at Rachel who was poking around the pasta sauce, pushing away the clumps of tomatoes instead of actually eating the meal before.  As I chewed I watched her taking a small bite.

“You eating?” I asked fusing my eyebrows together.

Her face scrunched not even looking at me.

“I hate tomatoes,” she muttered.

“This is completely normal for Rachel, trust me,” Bridget spoke up before taking in a good bite herself.

I nodded my head still observing the blond girl besides me.

“I have eating habits like a five year old,” Rachel spoke up as she skimmed a couple of strands before putting the bundled portion into her mouth.

“Since everyone is done you all will go straight to your rooms.  Make sure you are settled and well rested for an early start tomorrow, we will not tolerate students falling asleep during the activities.  The chaperons will make sure that no one escapes their rooms tonight.  Your chaperons will also call you all tomorrow morning to wake you all up,” Principal O’Doherty ordered with a stone face.

I watched as I lost Rachel in the crowed of people.  It wasn’t like she raced ahead, but people just squashed through the opening.  I was left behind as watching the small blond circle disappearing the hall who was linked arms with her couple of friends.  My hands dug into my pockets, I didn’t have my stupid room key.  I lost my partner in the crowd and don’t have my key to the room; Rachel was totally going to use that information as a piece that we were going to fail the project.  She needed to take a deep breath and come with terms with the fact that we’ll be great.

Elbows were jabbed into my as people shoved around as I attempted to make my way up.  Part of me wished that I was Rachel’s slight size to squeeze through these dumb, pushy peers.  People called out saying ‘hello’ to me and others, but I was just to a point where I have been up since early that morning; I wanted sleep.  Despite the happy belly of food, sleep was needed now.  As I cut through the mob out onto my floor, Rachel was still out of sight.  Once I reached my door, after a couple second guessing on other doors.  There was no real response, but I heard the television on in the room.  This time I knocked harder, and students that were passing turned to watch me.  That only made more frustrated.  Raising my fist again to knock for a third time, but Rachel opened the door.  Her big, green eyes looking up at mine, however the door was only open part way as she leered out of the small opening.

“Why didn’t you use your key?” Rachel asked, even through the gap had her head titled to the side.

“Just let me in already,” I responded slowly, each word slow and fully announced so each part was distinct.

“Fine, go ahead and ruin my fun,” Rachel pouted as she stepped aside opening the door fully for me.

I waltzed into the room pretty much collapsing onto the bed as the exhaustion hit me.  Propping the pillows behind me I was sitting up a little more, my eyelids half closed wanting to be given the chance to relax.  Yet a short, furious blond stood in front of the screen.  Her weight shifted onto one side with her arms crossed firmly over her petite chest with one of her eyebrows arched high.

“I think we should make a plan for the project, you know get a heads start so that we aren’t lost,” Rachel started, her position didn’t move, she was a statue as she paused staring at me.

I was not awake enough or in the mood to answer questions about doing a school assignment.  Moving my head to the side to try to peer around her hips happy she did not have ones like my sister.  Rachel just retaliated by moving her weight to that side so I leered to the other side which she only followed suit.  I glimpsed up into her eyes that were narrowed.  She was as scary as bunny slippers; part of me wanted to laugh at her.

“Nick come on be serious!  This is going to be a big grade for us, now come on and take me seriously!” Rachel snapped as her hands locked onto her hips.

I shrugged.

“Fine,” I responded not seeing a point in arguing.

She threw her arms up in the air as I watched her in the corner of my eyes; plopping down on the edge of the bed.  The muscles in her back were tense as she still wouldn’t face me as she glanced around the room, but me.  We were both stubborn.

“Crud,” she muttered almost to herself.

“What?” I asked using my feet to get my shoes off, kicking them off the bed.

“A little math problem for you Nick,” Rachel started as I closed my eyes for a second before connecting our eyes.  “There is one bed, there isn’t a couch, but there are two people…”

She stopped letting the last word drift.

“And your point is?” I asked with a raised brown eyebrow just wanting to end this conversation.

“Wow you really are hard headed, that means one of us is going to have to sleep on the floor.”

“Why?”

I held back the smile.

“Think about it.  If one of us wasn’t sleeping on the floor that would mean that you and I are sharing a bed!  And I am not going to share a bed with you,” Rachel finished.

“And what is wrong with that?” I asked keeping my face muscles cool as a cucumber while her face turned neon red.

At this point with her change of color I burst out laughing as she didn’t respond.  My upper body shook as my eyes came close to watering.  Her eyes widen before she looked away.

“You’re unbelievable!” Rachel snapped, her voice wavered with her cheeks still highlighted.

Her body was half turned towards me so that she could attempt to glare at me while she still had her feet dangling near the floor.

“Well I don’t feel comfortable making a girl sleep on the floor and lets face it I’m not in the mood to sleep on the floor.”

“I’m not sharing a bed with you,” Rachel responded quickly.

“Why?” I asked raising an eyebrow before my eyes drifted back to the television.

“Because you are a guy…that is a very intimate action,” her voice was softer this time.

“Rachel we’d be asleep not having sex,” I retorted glancing back to her.

“But we’d be in a bed together…”

“Gees, relax a little I won’t be touching you, we’ll put a divider if it makes you feel more comfortable,” I spoke, my voice rough with irritation with the full desire to just sleep.

Rachel’s eyes left me as they fell onto her lap with her hands going straight to her necklace.  Didn’t even have to look to know it was her the tiny, single silver wing jewelry she wore it every day for years, I couldn’t picture her not wearing it; it was a very Rachel Hertz trademark.  She always played with her pendent, especially during test time, twisting and untwisting the chain.

“Look how about you go shower or whatever it is you do to get ready for bed and breathe,” I spoke after a few moments of silence.

The blond just stared at me with the wing still strong in her fingers, purple finger nails contrasting against her pale skin and sliver metal.  After a few seconds she just stood up and headed toward the bathroom with her bag in her hand.  The shower water was turned on as I stretched, taking up full stride of the bed before standing up myself.  Heading for the closet I found a couple extra blankets and pillows which I tossed onto the bed.  Fixing the new supplies I formed a small barrier that I was sure that would at least calm Rachel’s nerves a little, at least for the moment.  Reaching behind me I gripped the fabric of the shirt; gathering the material in my fingers I pulled the shirt off.  Once the contraption was off I flung it onto my bag to exchange my jeans for more comfortable pants.  Once more I dropped onto the bed, the sheets up to my waist, with one hand behind my head.

Sometime later the water was turned off and a few minutes later Rachel came out.  Placing her bag next to mine she made her way back towards the bed in blue swirly pajama bottoms with a Giants t-shirt that looked to be the prefect size for a full grown man.

“I didn’t take you for a sports girl,” I spoke up as she pushed wet long hair behind her ear, but the strands didn’t seem like they were planning on behaving.

“I don’t, marching season is enough sports, this is my dad’s it doesn’t fit him anymore which means free pajamas for Rachel,” Rachel started, but I couldn’t help cutting her off.

“FYI that is the wrong.”

Rachel rolled her eyes.

“The wrong team?  I’m sorry am I offending you?”

“Yes greatly, take the shirt off now,” I spat out with a half smile forming.

“Not even in your dreams Mr. March,” she spoke slowly.

“Your team color should be-“

“Thank you for the wall,” Rachel said quickly making sure to change the sports topic.

“Your welcome.”

Rachel pushed the sheets aside on her part to crawl in between the sheets.

“Night Nick,” Rachel yawned.

“Night Rach, sweet dreams.”

Chapter Three

Rachel