Off the Beaten Path and a Freebie

Good morning from New Jersey!
I'm visiting my family in New Jersey for another week then it is back to Virginia for me. I'm down to 24 days until my wedding! It is getting to the crunch and I've been so calm through this whole process I'm trying to keep it up! It is all the little details now and I'm not the best with that stuff so it's interesting. However, you are not reading this to hear about my wedding planning process.

So as I have said previously End of the Line 2 is being released this month! It has been a long journey and has gone through multiple editors, but it is being released next week! Off the Beaten Path takes place a couple of years after the first story. I've been torn if I will write a third. I did come up with another idea, but we'll see if I can do it or not. I do not want to force an idea. If you have no read the first, it is currently free through Barnes and Nobles and Smashwords. I will share the link. You can also check out the details for the upcoming release!

After a couple of years, things almost seem calm again. there is almost a sense of home and security. However, something they thought would never happen does - a group of people finds them. Once the crowd comes, everything they know changes. Their pack order and relationships are questioned as things are thrown for a loop. After everything that Mother Nature had thrown at them, can their group survive other people?

Amazon

BN

Smashwords

FREE - End of the Line

When so much is lost how does one to have the strength to move on? At seventeen Lauren was prepared for yet another year of school. Then asteroids hit, killing all of those she knew except for a few other teens from her neighborhood. Joining forces with her classmate Aaron, they work together on the journey in the hopes of finding more people that are alive. On the way, threats of starvation, illness, and freezing to death compare to the danger of Dean Manson. Manson is an ex-con out for revenge against Aaron. With so much working against them these teens fight for everything even if it means denying their feelings just for the chance to see a new day.

BN

Smashwords

TWO upcoming releases

Good Morning!
I'm currently taking a break from cleaning/laundry. I mean I live an exciting life full of adventure... Can't you feel the sarcasm this morning? Currently, my internet is trying to upload the cover for one of the upcoming releases for June. You did read that right, there will be two releases this June. The pressure is on! I would have put one in July, but I'm getting married in July and I can picture myself working on minor details and completely forgetting to market a release. At least I'm honest right?

The first release will be on June 14th. This release is a kind of new release. I put all the Mistakes novellas together to create an anthology. I prefer paperback books myself, and if there is an in-between book only available on ebook format I tend to not read it. It is terrible, my kindle spends most of its time collecting dust if I get a book for review that's pretty much when I use my kindle, otherwise I could go on and on about how much I prefer paperbacks. I wanted to let my readers who are the same way to have a way to read the Mistakes series. So I put the whole collection together as a collection. The collection will be available for ebook users AND paperback users. I have had some financial stuff going on lately so I couldn't afford to do a big cover, but I wanted it to go along with the other covers in the series. I hope that you all like it! I'll share that in a day or two ;)


The other release is FINALLY happening! I've been talking about this release for YEARS. End of the Line's sequel, Off the Beaten Path is FINALLY being released next month! I wasn't sure if I would rewrite a sequel to my first book, but a few years later I wrote one, I did have to take a little break because I almost felt like I wrote myself into a corner. Once it was written I had one editor take it. She had it, edited it, then her computer crashed. Unfortunately, some other factors happened and she couldn't edit the piece again. That in itself was a couple of years. Then this past December I gave the story to another editor that I've worked with and she sent the final piece to me this past week! I will not share this cover quite yet, but keep an eye out for ebook details for End of the Line so that you are prepared for the sequel! June will be a busy month and I hope that you all are ready!

Define a Hero ~ Early Release

Good Morning,
I'm in bed with the dogs who don't understand the concept of sleeping in. They woke me up before seven and have managed to go outside three times before eight. I guess that just means I'll have an early start this morning? We'll hope I'm more productive than I was yesterday!

Talking about early start I woke up this morning and Define a Hero has already had an ebook sold! I was going to announce this morning that I released Define a Hero a few days early and someone beat me to the race! Thank you person! I hope that you all enjoy the last installment in this Beneath the Scars trilogy. It is bitter sweet to say goodbye to this series, but it is nice to have it finished. Again you do not have to read the three in order, but I would suggest it. Each one is about a different couple. It was a nice change to write in adult mindset instead of young adult, I may go back to that. :)

Define a Hero
A few years ago Riley Nolan saved a young man when his foot got stuck on the hood of a truck. Saving Lucas’ life had forever changed Riley's. On another tour, Lucas, lost his leg and he was discharged. While living with his parents he watches his niece and nephew after school. Thanks to his nephew, Lucas starts to befriend his nephew's teacher. As they get closer Lucas begins to notice that Sonja is in serious trouble. Every time they spend time together, Sonja gets more confused, and further in danger.

Amazon

BN

Smashwords

Call for Help
Jack Corrente was once part of the same unit as Riley Nolan. Now after serving Jack is back in his hometown. On the outside he looks like his regular self. He is working at the same mechanic shop he worked at in high school, he goes out with his friends, and helps his mom around her house. On the inside though he is constantly battling the shadows from his past.One night, his high school sweetheart, Faye Harper, accidentally calls him. His mind becomes swampy with memories of Faye and of his tours. Faye was ready to escape the small town as soon as she received her NYU acceptance letter. She is now states away in New York City. She has a job that she likes and a fast pace life. However, ever since that phone call she wonders if she took her current path for the right reasons.

Amazon

BN

Smashwords



Then there is the book that started it all.

Beneath the Scars
Corporal Riley Nolan is back home and out of the hospital after sustaining severe injuries in a skirmish overseas. His physical injuries may be healed, though he is left with horrible scars all over his body. His mind is still healing, and he has almost no contact with the world outside his small dark apartment.

After the death of her parents and being forced to sell their house and move into an apartment in a new town, Eponine is left picking up the pieces while trying to maintain a normal life for her little sister, Genevieve.

Can these new neighbors help each other heal, finding the light and laughter in the world again? Most importantly, can Eponine help Riley see he's not the monster he believes himself to be beneath the scars?

Amazon

BN

Smashwords

Finale

Good morning!
It is almost 8:30am by me but I've been up since quarter to seven because of the dogs. Savannah and Leo usually dont wake me up that early, but it is what it is at this point! I just couldn't go back to sleep afterwards. So instead I'm in bed with the dogs listening to the rain ice mixture coming down in my Minnie Mouse pjs. Because everyone in my family got a matching set!

Sorry for not posting much during the holidays and December. I had some family stuff going on that I was dealing with then my fiance and I were traveling to different family members during the holidays.

Plus we did a little wedding stuff while we were up. I got to see my actual dress for the first time! Back in June I went to a local store by my parents with my mom, sister, Grammy, and my future mother in law. I picked a dress in less than 10 dresses (might have been like the 7th or 8th). However, I got to see my dress which was in my size and correct color. I was a little anxious to see it and was hoping I made the right choice. When I saw it I loved it all over again. It was so hard to come see my fiance afterwards and not tell him anything. He laughed. After knowing each other for 11 years it's hard to withhold from him. My mom and I also decorated a cupcake display for the ceremony. Six months today I will be getting married!!

I'm late with posting the release date, but I will be doing that today. Yesterday I finished up the edits and did most of the formatting on Define a Hero (Beneath the Scars 3). I will be releasing the last in this series on February 15! A little over a month today. Put that date on your calendar because that will be the last Beneath the Scars book to be published. The end of the trilogy. Aren't you curious to meet Lucas Edwards? The man that Riley Nolan had saved all those years ago

I have three other stories that should be released this year, but we'll have to see how I can time that. The finances changed a little in our household so I'll have to see when I can do all that. Keep warm on this yucky day!

Leading Ladies ~ Sonja Bennett

Hello!
We got to meet Lucas Edwards who is lame and doesn't like Star Wars. I know, how lame right? This is the last leading lady for a Beneath the Scars book. I'm sure you all want to throw something at me because I keep saying 'the last time'. I'm sure it's annoying to hear, but it's weird to think that this is the last time that I'm working on with this project. I will have other projects, but I throw myself into each of my stories.

Sonja Bennett

Black hair
Dark eyes
Caring
Teacher
Likes to binge watch movies with sweets with her friend Kensi.
Needs a new car.

My feet were sore and my hips were stiff from standing on my feet the last two days. Today was the second full day and I didn’t know who felt it more, me or the kids. The first week was over. Sitting at my desk my eyes were scanning the desks. I could tell I was going to have to move a few kids around because of the chattiness. Sighing I took my phone out of the top drawer. There was a missed call, I didn’t recognize the number, but they also didn’t leave a voicemail. I swiped the notification off to the side. There weren’t any text messages either. I chewed on the inside of my cheek. Taking a deep breath I clicked on the message icon and clicked on Sawyer’s name.

Hey, what are you up to this weekend?

I shouldn’t contact him after he blew me off the other night. Maybe he was busy? Well I’m busy too. Why did I keep doing this to myself? He and I have known each other since middle school. My phone vibrating broke my train of thought.

Not much, sorry missed you the other night. Had to help my buddy move some stuff.

See he was busy.

You’re fine, I went to bed early for my first day.

Nice, you survive?

One corner of my lips curled up. He sent another message.

I got paid in a case of beer so I’d say I did.

So do you want to do something this weekend?

I stood up and grabbed my stuff. The sun cut through the blinds of my classroom, hitting every laminate surface of the kids’ desks. Pulling my sunglasses out of my purse I perched them on the top of my head. Swinging the bag over my shoulder I marched out of my room. Leaving the building I signed out, I survived the first week. I only had one hundred seventy-seven school days to go until summer break. As I walked out into the warm sunny afternoon, the warmth filled me after being in the building all day. My phone buzzed.

Don’t know haven’t thought that far out, u?

Was kind of hoping that we could hang out

I got to my car and tossed my stuff into the passenger seat. I took a deep breath of fresh air as I made my way around to the driver’s seat. Once I got myself in my seat and situated my phone went off again. Picking it up Sawyer had responded.

Sure we can. Want to show up tomorrow around six at twelfth ave and we take it from there?

My heart fluttered.

That sounds good to me.

Shaking my hands out I was grinning like a fool. Starting my car I pulled out of the parking lot. This week might have been a little rough, but I had a date with Sawyer tomorrow. We were going to the beach as well, which in itself helped restart every fiber in me. That could help me relax for the upcoming week a little. Rolling down the windows a little I turned up the music. I was going to enjoy the fresh air as much as I could.

When I got home I quickly changed into my pajamas and threw my hair into a bun. Tonight I was going to do laundry and relax, tomorrow I was going to have some fun.

Leaning over my mirror I opened my eyes real wide to get each lash with the mascara. My lashes were already dark, but the mascara helped with the defining, at least that’s what I was told. Mixing a couple of shades of eyeshadow I coated each eyelid with the shimmery powder, but made sure not to cover the eyeliner. Grabbing my brush I pulled it through my nearly black mane. The light waves were pulled straight with each action then sprung back to their original form. Gathering the strands I pulled it up and turned my head a couple of times. Scrunching my face I let them fall back down my back. Taking a couple of steps back I looked at the mirror on my dresser.

I pulled on my light pink shirt, then smoothed out my grey and blue striped skirt that came down to a little above my knees. Exhaling I glanced around my room. It was nice to dress for something other than work. Now to go grab my sandals. Opening up my closet I bent over to pick up silver sandals from my shoe rack. Slipping them on, I gripped the straps to my purse. Jogging down the stairs I didn’t want to be late.

“I’m going out with Sawyer, see you all later,” I called out as I ran out the door.

Practically running down the path I went to my car. After going through a couple of radio stations I finally settled on one. Zooming out of the neighborhood I made my way towards the beach. It seemed like I managed to hit every red light on the way. My thumbs drummed against the steering wheel with the beats. As I got closer to the Main Street people were strolling on both sides. Some were still in their bathing suits with a cover up or t-shirt. A couple of kids were running ahead of some adults who were calling for them. I turned down Twelfth Avenue. Driving by the homes, over the summer most of the houses had out of state license plates in the driveways. Now, more of the state that I knew was coming back.

The homes were big, some still with fresh siding on them. Off to the side a group of people around my age were sitting on a front porch with a cooler. The horizon was becoming bluer. The corners of my lips turned in. The meters that were up all summer for right on the beach parking were taken down. Once my car was off, I got out and jumped onto the boardwalk, holding the sides of my skirt down. I sat on a bench as a breeze came through.

Crossing my ankles I leaned back against the wood back. The salty air surrounded me. Taking in a deep breath the week that I had become a faint memory. The sounds of laughter and waves crashing against the sand reached my ears. The hums of the waves were a soothing melody to me. Checking my phone I saw that I was five minutes early. Sawyer was never early.

Sitting on the bench I watched some kids finishing up a sandcastle. An older couple was holding hands as they strolled on the waterline. The woman’s face was towards me, but her eyes were on the man she was with. Tilting my head I kept my eyes on them until they were too far. I wondered if Sawyer and I would end up like that couple. Checking my phone again it was quarter after six. Sawyer didn’t text me. My knee started to bounce. If I hit every red light, maybe he had as well. He usually left his house late to begin with.

The few families that were on the beach slowly dwindled. However, behind me I could hear people sauntering by as their feet hit the boards. Some of the restaurants were getting a little louder. The sky was turning a mixture of orange, purple, and pink. I looked at my phone. It was a few minutes after seven. Sawyer hated when I checked up on him. Picking up my phone closer to my face I clicked on Kensi’s name. She picked up on the second ring.

“Hey, what’s up?”

I sighed. “Hey.”

“What’s wrong?”

“I’m hungry and have been stood up. I’m at the beach and I’m really regretting my skirt decision.”

“What ave?”

“Twelve.”

“I’ll be right there.”

She hung up before I could say anything else. I slid down the bench and crossed my arms over my chest. Titling my head back I stared at the sky above my head. I was so stupid thinking that this was going to cheer me up. After everything we’ve been through I should’ve known there was a good chance that he wasn’t going to show up. My eyes stung. I kept blinking and took in deep breaths. I was in public.

“Sonja?”

I sat up and turned around. There was Kensi holding a pizza. She was in long pants and a flowy plum color tank top. Her blonde hair was tied in a high ponytail. In her arms was a box of pizza with a brown paper bag on top. I smiled. Using her other hand she tossed me something. Narrowing my eyes I caught it, there were a pair of shorts. I laughed.

“Go put those on in my truck and we’ll eat our feast of champions.”

I shook my head and jumped off the boardwalk to get into her SUV. Climbing in I shut the door quickly. I pulled the shorts on under my skirt, trying to keep low in the backseats. Yanking my skirt off I buttoned her shorts. They were a little tight, but I would take them. I left my skirt in the back and went to join Kensi on the boardwalk.

“Feel a little better?”

“Yeah, thanks.”

We walked down the stairs towards the sand.

“I know that’s not how you planned on getting out of your skirt tonight.” She continued.

“Thanks.” I answered dryly.

“Hey, I brought pizza, cheesy garlic bread, and some desert you should love me.”

I laughed. “I do. How can I argue with an opening like that?”

She plopped down and I mimicked. She opened the box to reveal a pepperoni pizza. Kensi leaned over and pulled out a bottle of water for each of us. I took it and put it in the sand next to me. I took a slice out of the box and groaned as I took the first bite.

“I’m starving.”

She giggled. “I can tell.”

I finished one slice and chugged some water.

“So, now that you have some food in you, care to explain?”

I separated another piece of pizza. The cheese stretched and I had to peel the cheese to let it free.

“Same old story. Kind of crazy first week. Sawyer said we’d meet up tonight here at six and I called you at seven. I haven’t heard from him to explain why he didn’t show.”

She shook her head. “I swear I don’t get why you keep giving him more chances or what you see in him.”

I glanced over at her and swallowed what I had in my mouth.

“I don’t know, it’s kind of hard to explain. He is nice to me.”

She raised an eyebrow. “Standing you up, isn’t being nice to you.”

I rolled my eyes. “I’m aware, but when we do see each other he is nice.”

“You’re a great person,” I shifted my eyes to her as she was talking. “I just wish you’d see that and leave his dumb, worthless, ass behind.”

I lowered the pizza for a moment.

“I don’t know why I can’t.”

She wrapped an arm around me.

“It’s going to be hard to let go of a first love, but I’ll be here for every step. I want you to be happy.” I rested my head on her shoulder. “Lucky for you the first step includes food. I also have a couple slices cheesecake in this bag.”

I laughed and wiped my eyes.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

She grinned ear to ear. “Good news for you is that you won’t ever have to worry about that.”

I smiled.

The next day I was tying my hair back as I was jogging down the stairs. When I reached the first level I turned down the hall. Audrey was sitting on the couch eating something for lunch. It looked like part of a quesadilla. When I walked into the kitchen, her quesadilla maker was still on the counter, flipped open. Peppers, onions, cheese, and a few other stuff were spread across the counter top. Every fiber of my being cringed. I kept my head turned away as I went into the fridge to search for something. I sucked in and made some clicking noises. There was some fruit, a couple Tupperware containers, and a package of chicken. Opening one of the containers there was a slice of chicken pie. I heated it in the microwave. Pulling out a drawer I grabbed a fork and made my way back up the stairs, nibbling as I went up.

When I got up the stairs I sat down on my bed, moving around until I was comfortable. Lighting up my phone I checked to see if I had any messages. Taking in a deep breath I let it out slowly. I was not going to give in to text him. Shaking my head I got up to put my phone on the furthest dresser before going back to bed.

Free early copy of Call for Help

Hello!
The sun is shinning, but it is freezing by me! The sun is giving a false illusion. However, I'm still excited for the upcoming release of Call for Help (Beneath the Scars 2)! Hopefully you are as well. I see many people took advantage of Beneath the Scars being free for ebook users. With that being said tomorrow (Monday) I will share a  form for you all to fill out. You might ask why should you do this?

This form will be for those who have posted a review of Beneath the Scars somewhere online. I dont care if the review is one sentence or a whole page on a blog or on Amazon. If you share me the link of your review then I will verify the link. Then I will email you a copy of Call for Help in any ebook format to you for free!! I will only do this for a short period of time.
Keep your eyes open!

Men of Ottilie ~ Lucas Edwards

Good Morning,
I started back up at work this past week. I'll have to go back to figuring out a way to work and write, yay for back to finding a balance. Got to love adulting. Jenn is moving through Call for Help which I can't wait to share with you all this year! I usually edit a story a couple of times, then have someone else go through it, I go through the story again, then I send it off to an editor. Right now Define a Hero (Beneath the Scars 3) is in the stage of being in someone else's hands. I mailed it to my mom and she is going through it. Apparently she edits while she is going to the city on the train. Whatever works right?
Here is Lucas Edwards. If you read Beneath the Scars, the last name Edwards should look familiar! ;) Tom Holland seems like a nice, funny guy so I was tempted to put him in as Lucas, we'll see what you all think!

Lucas Edwards

Dark Blond (might be switched to brunette)
Hazel eyes
Ex Marines
Wears a prosthetic leg
Watches his niece and nephew after school
Hates Star Wars

The TV was on as I munched on some cereal that I kept in my room. The sheets were still covering my lower half of my body. I was waiting to hear the results of the DNA test. I didn’t understand people. The woman said she loved her boyfriend, but slipped up and swore it was his best friend’s baby. She promised that she had never been with another man except those two guys. The guy on the screen pulled out the envelope. I grabbed another handful of cereal and crunched down. The boyfriend came back as not the father. The boyfriend bent over, covering his face. If I was him I’d take my chance and run off the stage, change my phone number, and make sure never to see the girl again. His best friend leaned forward in his chair. I bet was that he wasn’t the father either. The guy opened up the envelope. He wasn’t the father either. I could make money betting on this show. The second guy jumped up out of his chair, knocking it over, screaming ‘I told you so’ over and over. The woman was sobbing.

There was a knock on my door. The door creaked open. There stood my brother, Cameron. I raised my eyebrow. He opened the door completely and came in. He sat on the edge of my bed. My eyes stayed on him, waiting for the shoe to drop.

“This is seriously what you are watching?”

Quickly I swallowed. “It’s completely mindless, and I can feel my brain dying a little with each second, but at the same time I find myself unable to change the channel either.”

“So I got that job.”

“That’s great.”

I didn’t look at him.

“So I’m going to need some help.”

I raised my eyebrow and looked at him.

“What kind of help?”

“Just for you to get the kids from school and make sure they don’t die until I get home from work at five thirty.”

“Will I have to pick them up from school?”

Cameron shook his head. “Nah, the bus drops them off at the corner and they can walk here together. Just make sure no sweets after school and that they do their homework. You don’t have to leave the house.”

I shrugged. “Well in that case, I will.”

“At some point you will have to see people in public.”

I stared at him blankly. “I’m a grown man, if I don’t want to do something, I don’t have to.”

He shook his head. “Whatever, but you got the kids?”

I nodded. “Yeah, I got them.”

“You will have to leave this room though.”

I turned my head to the other side of the bed where my prosthetic was resting.

“Whatever.”

“You better get a grip soon because you’re starting to affect Hunter.”

I made a noise and narrowed in at Cameron. “I think you’re giving the kids more credit.”

“I think you don’t realize how old they are now.”

I glanced back to the TV. The girlfriend was covering her face as she was crying and ran off stage.

“I think you need to socialize with actual people instead of this real life soap opera crap.”

“Please, those writers wished they could write a script like this.”

Cameron stood in front of the TV. His arms were folded over his chest and his were practically slits.

“I don’t want to come home to the kids downstairs by themselves, or with this in the background as you are so called watching them. It was nearly impossible for me to get full custody against Laura.”

I sighed and rolled my eyes. “Fine.”

“You must be downstairs, at the kitchen table helping Amelia and Hunter with their homework when I walk through the door.”

“Yes, mom,” my voice was deeper.

“When you have kids you’ll understand.”

“I’m not a full man, who the hell is going to have a kid with me?” I barked.

“You’re right, you’re not a man. You’re a child. It’s one in the afternoon now get your lazy butt up. I’m not mom and I won’t coddle you anymore. You’ve been on that bed for nearly a year. We all took turns driving you to therapy sessions. The gloves are coming off now. Your niece and nephew will be home soon since it was a half day. Now I want you showered, in clean clothes, and acting like a human within ten minutes.”

Cameron stormed out of the room and slammed the door behind him so hard that it shook in the frame. The people on TV started to yell at each other, their voices only mixed with my groan. I threw the sheets over to the side. On the night stand was my prosthetic sock and socket. My face twisted as I swung my leg over. My one foot rested on the floor while my stub on edge of my bed. I rolled the sock over the nub that was once my leg. I docked in the socket over it. Leaning over slightly I took hold of the prosthetic leg. Hooking it up to the socket until I heard the click. Pushing myself up I felt the weight transfer, my shorts fell over the fake leg, resting over the ball of a joint.

Picking up my leg I started to walk down the hall. I could feel each roll of the foot and knee of my new limb. Once I was out of my room I turned to go down the stairs. My one hand gripped the smooth wooden railing with each step. My pace was measured, just as I got to the first floor it opened. Amelia came bursting through the door. Her arms were wide open with a grin spreading across her face.

“Uncle Lucas!” she giggled and wrapped her arms around my waist.

I placed a hand on her shoulder. Hunter was moseying up the porch stairs with his eyes on the ground.”

“School was awesome!”

“You like your teacher?” Cameron came up from behind me.

Amelia let go and went around me. I heard her sandals clapping against the tile floor. Hunter closed the door behind him. He went past me.

“Hunter, I’ll get a snack ready please take out the paperwork so I can start signing.”

I heard the thud of his book bag on a kitchen chair. I followed everyone else into the other room. Amelia was following Cameron around the kitchen as he was gathering things for a snack. Her short legs were doubling the amount of steps, but that didn’t seem to slow her down.

“Mrs. Jackson she is sooo nice. She has short hair and she likes to sing songs. Oh! Her favorite color is green. She has two kids. Oh! She has toys in the room too. She told us a story today about pie.”

Her voice was going by fast. I was pretty sure that I knew more about this Mrs. Jackson than anyone else in the past year. Hobbling by I sat in a chair at the table. Hunter plopped a folder onto the table then sat in a chair next to me. Cameron placed a table with apple slices in the middle of the table.

“Thank Mr. Mom,” I smirked.

Cameron shook his head. He grabbed a pen off the table and started to go through Hunter’s papers.

“Am I to provide fuel in such a manner?” I asked.

Cameron was reading papers and then his pen scribbled across the paper.

“I prefer chips if you’re taking requests,” Hunter muttered.

He and I smiled at each other.

“We don’t have chips.” Cameron spoke flatly.

“We can go to the store.” Hunter responded as he looked at his dad.

“Your options are fruits or vegetables. If it’s from the ground you’re in the clear.”

Hunter rolled his eyes and slid down his chair.

“Amelia loves her teacher, how was yours?”

“Miss Bennett?” Hunter raised an eyebrow, Cameron glanced up from his paperwork and returned the facial gesture.

As I looked at both of them. Hunter had his mother’s tanner skin and eye color. However, the shape of his eyes, nose, and hair color were all my brother.

“That is your teacher correct?”

“Yeah. She’s new, she’s alright I guess.”

Hunter shrugged his shoulders. Amelia was on the other side of me. She shifted herself so that she was sitting on her knees, she leaned half of her body over so that she could fingertip an apple slice. I nudge the slice closer to her. She picked it up and started to munch on it. She smiled at me and the corners of my lips curled. Amelia scooted back a little. She swung her legs around and she dropped in her chair.

“I love my teacher.”

Hunter’s features fell. “You’re in kindergarten, you don’t know the truth just yet.”

“What truth?” Amelia’s head titled causing her already slanted hair tie to droop more.

“That school is just a building that eats your soul.”

“Is that true?” Amelia’s eyes rushed to me.

Cameron’s head snapped up and his eyebrows were fused together.

“Hunter, where did you hear wording like that?”

Cameron’s eyes then shot at me. My eyes widen.

“Don’t look at me this time.”

“This time,” Cameron muttered.

Cameron put his pen down and turned towards Hunter.

“You need to keep comments like that to yourself. School is fine. I promise it is just another year, and despite what you think I swear you will live through it.”

“I wish I moved with mom,” Hunter growled.

He stood up, shoved his chair into the table and ran up the stairs.

Cameron rubbed his face with both hands.

“Look, I got the kids after school. Don’t worry.”

Cameron’s green eyes caught mine. There were deep circles under them.

“I’ll try.”

Endings

Hello!
I'm currently curled up on the couch with my fuzzy blue blanket and my laptop on my lap. I have "Little Shop of Horrors" playing as I stare at word document that is labeled for End of the Line 3. I've had an idea for it for a while now. Back when I was writing the second one I was thinking dividing that story in two then working in this idea, but that didn't happen.

As I was working on the last installment of Beneath the scars 3 I did get a little emotional. I'd been working on that trilogy for a few years. I take longer than most it seems. I actually felt like I was bye to these characters. I dont know if that makes me sound crazy or not.

The more I thought about it I didn't feel that way about writing the last End of the Line. Do I miss working with Aaron and Lauren? Big time. How could I not? Have you not read Aaron? So I'm not making any promises, but as I'm editing a couple of works I miss the actual writing part. I'm editing like three different stories right now. I like editing, but I want to do a little creating as well.

Truth be told, I love my Beneath the Scars series. I really bonded with these the characters and drove straight into the pages. However, with two of the three in editing mode, and editing Family Ties 2 it was a lot of PTSD for me. It makes me feel a little off so I was happy to take a break and write my Christmas Lites short story. Getting a little out of the funk, but enjoying the writing. Actually I sent the second Beneath the Scars to an editor! Yay! Hopefully Jenn enjoys it.
Have a good night!

Men of Ottilie ~ Jack Corrente

Hello!
I really enjoyed this story. The first was so much fun to write it made writing a second in this series a little hard to write. It was a lot of pressure that I put on myself! I actually started a version, Jack was a cop and the leading female had a different name. She was visiting the town her family had a beach house in. It started to get depressing and honestly I wasn't into writing it. I figured if I was having trouble writing it, people wouldn't want to read it. I took some time off and a new idea came to me. I started to write then not long afterwards I got the story rolling. I enjoyed the characters, some of the lines I was eager to get to. Then again some lines I didn't notice until I was editing.

I love Jack. He was interesting to write. I went back reading the flashbacks and had to tweak a few things in Call for Help. I originally wanted to have most of the story told through phone calls/text messages and flashbacks. I love writing flashbacks. I have I think in this story it helps paint a full picture of Jack and Faye. I wasn't as set on an actor for Jack, so I'm open for suggestions and interested in who you picture for Jack! I like the actor Sam Claflin so I put him, because who doesn't? Look at that smile, so sincere.

Jack Corrente

Blondish
Blue Green Eyes
Was in the Marines
Mechanic
Helps everyone
Puts others first
Great Pool Player

There was a slight breeze, but it was the first night that I could go outside without a coat. The sky was ink black and decorated with pure white stars clear as a bell. I was sitting in the backyard with my feet up on another chair. My head was tilted up, my phone that was on my lap went off. I’d been waiting for hours to hear from Faye. We had discussed going out tonight, but I hadn’t heard from her. I knew better than to blow up her phone. All I did was text her before dinner about asking what she felt like doing.

Don’t feel like leaving.

y?

I had to ask, because the day before she went on about how she needed to get out and do something. That she was bored out of her mind. She needed to do something after the week she had at school.

Just don’t feel like seeing the outside world today.

What are you doing then?

Sitting in bed watching TV.

I raised an eyebrow.

You’re seriously just going to lay in bed tonight?

y not? Long week and mom is out.

I stood up and marched up the deck stairs.

Don’t be lame.

I opened the back door and through the kitchen when my phone went off again.

I just feel eh and don’t feel like doing much.

I grabbed my keys off the hook in the kitchen. Mom got tired of finding my keys all around the house.

“Mom, I’m going to Faye’s for a bit.”

She looked up from whatever she was working on at the kitchen table. The bright colors bounced off the walls creating a warm comfortable feeling.

“Okay, but don’t be out too late. We have church in the morning then we’re with the grandparents the rest of the day.”

I kissed her on the cheek and went out the front door. I practically jumped off the front porch and walked around my mom’s car to reach my truck. It was my mom’s and she gave it to me the day I passed my test. It was a used truck for her and the once vibrant color was now a heathered version of the color. However, working for Lennie helped me keep the truck running like I was the second owner instead of the third or fourth.

Starting the truck I made my way towards Faye’s house listening to the dings of my phone as she was talking until it went silent. She was probably not going to be in the best mood about the fact that I wasn’t responding. Apparently that was a one way street of acceptability. Finally I pulled up her rock driveway. I turned the car off so that silence was in the air and slipped my phone into my pocket as I slid out of the truck. I ran up the stairs and rang her doorbell. After a moment she answered her door. Her blond hair was tied up in a bun. She was wearing plaid pajama shorts and a baggy t-shirt, just further supporting her words of not wanting to do anything.

“I should’ve known that you were driving here since you weren’t responding.” Her voice was flat as she leaned against the door, her hand was still on the side of the door.

I grinned as she let me into the house.

“What else are friends for other than making them do things they don’t want to do.”

Her open hands waved around her shorts. “Once the pajama pants are on, I don’t leave the house. It’s a golden rule that I live my life by.”

I made my way to her room. “That’s fine I don’t have any intention of subjecting the outside world to you tonight.”

“I’m not sure if that is a jab at me or not.”

She crossed her arms as she stood in her doorframe. Her room was a mess, like always. Even though she had a desk her book bag and homework was scattered on her bed. Her soccer cleats and other clothes were littered across the floor. I tried to ignore the clothes as I was sure there was a bra hanging over the foot of her bed. My cheeks warmed as I pushed some of her old assignments away from her speakers and plugged up my phone. I had to focus. I’m pretty sure that she’d kill me if she thought I was looking at any of her underwear.

“What are you up to Jack?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know?”

“Well, duh that’s why I asked.”

I turned around as music came through the speakers. A corner of her lips curled.

“Time to get out of that funk.” My voice was a little louder to be heard over my music.

I turned the music louder and went over to her. She bit her lips almost to stop the smile from forming. She was not going to give me the satisfaction. She just stood there. I grabbed both of her hands and started to move her side to side. Ethan was going to take away my man card for this.

“Stop fighting our house party.”

“It’s just the two of us.”

“Whoever said a party had to be more than two people?” I asked her still trying to get her to move.

“Every normal human being,” She finally laughed and started to jump up and down.

“Embrace the dorkiness of it all,” I called out.

She broke out laughing real hard. Faye’s face lit up and I could not help the grin on my face growing bigger. She was at ease. It was at that moment I knew that I wanted to make sure there was a smile on her face for the rest of my life.

“Did you get any sleep last night?”

I lifted my head to see Ethan glancing at me through the side of the open hood of the truck.

“Sorry I didn’t really sleep last night.”

“Nightmares again?”

I shook my head and went back to staring at the engine. “Something like that.”

Leaning further into the car I tried to get a better look at the problem. That and hoping that he would get the hint.

“It might be time for you to see some professional help,” Ethan lowered his voice as he came over to stand next to me.

“I don’t need any professional help that’s why I got Bailey,” I shot back and grunted as I tried to unscrew a bolt.

“Did you just say you got a dog instead of seeking out professional help?”

I glanced up at my friend. “Dogs are great listeners and are cheaper in the long run.”

“What were you having nightmares from then?” Ethan continued to ask and started to lean against the car that I was working on.

I narrowed my eyes. I was going to smack him with a tool if he didn’t move.

“Faye-”

“Why am I even hearing that name?” Ethan’s voice came out harsh.

Groaning I got out from under the hood of the car and stood up straight. I took my hat off, gripping it in my hands, then I re-slid it back on my head. The garage’s clatters and buzzes filled my ears, but I could still hear my heart racing in my chest. Her voice came to me once again. The high school Faye was fresh, crystal clear image with that smile still engrained in my mind despite what I wanted. My palms were sweaty already. I wiped them on my jeans pretending that it was because of the grease.

“Because she accidently called me last night,” I muttered and trudged over to my toolbox, making sure not to meet his eyes.

I turned my back and took some sips of my water. His eyes were boring a hole in the back of my head.

“She still has your number in her phone?”

I shrugged and turned around so that my back was against the cool metal of my toolbox. “Apparently. There’s some restaurant near her with the name Jack in the title and she was ordering dinner or she thought she was ordering dinner.”

“I’m pretty sure that’s one of the lamest things that I’ve ever heard of in my entire life.” Ethan’s voice was dry.

“Can we please for the love of God end this conversation? I feel like a middle school girl.”

“The two of you sound like it too,” Joey called over before sliding back under his oil change.

“Answer one thing first.”

I rolled my eyes as I turned to face him instead of Joey. “What?”

“How long was your conversation?”

I scrunched my face and shrugged. “A few minutes, not long.”

He nodded. “Good, I don’t need you running off again because of her.”

“I didn’t run off because of her.” I responded flatly.

“You two broke up, and she was on a plane to New York City two hours later, and then less than a week later you were seeing recruiters for the Marines.”

“That timeline isn’t accurate and you know it.” I grabbed a wrench and raised it. “This will be lodged somewhere if you don’t stop talking soon though.”

He held up both of his hands and took a step back.

“Okay I get it. I’ll drop it.”

“Good.”

I put the wrench back on the top of my toolbox and went back to the car that I was working on.

“You haven’t tried to contact her today have you?”

I just dropped my head and sighed instead of answering him.

Leading Ladies ~ Faye Harper

Hello!
You all got to meet Jack from Call for Help. He is awesome, and I could gush over my characters, some more than others, but we won't tell them that. Faye is a character that I changed her name like three or four times. I wanted a name that wasn't overly girly or used. Then leave it to Facebook to have those pop up for baby names for different countries. I clicked on it and got the name Faye. I'm pretty sure that is the poster child example of why the ads pop up. Faye is a character I kind of could relate to. In high school I was ready to get out of school, to not see my peers, and to get out of there. Now unlike Faye I didn't go to college outside of the state, but I did move away years later. I feel like we can all relate to Faye with the sense of ready to spread our wings, to be more than what others might think of us.

For her I could almost see Lily James, but that might partly be because I like her work. I could even see her having fun with Charlotte from Beneath the Scars, I think Lily James does have a range. Fay,e goes on exploration for herself all the while helping her friend plan her wedding

Faye Harper

Blond Hair (the highlights count)
Hazel eyes
Favorite Food is Pizza
Raised by her mom
Is not a very organized person.

Natalie was already on a bike with an empty one next to her when I got to the gym. Her brown hair with the auburn highlights was tied back in a tight ponytail and a headband ensuring that everything stayed in place as she stared at her phone. She was wearing a pink tank top with black and pink yoga pants to match her sneakers.

“Morning,” I greeted as I sat down next to her.

“Oh my God, the dress was so tight in the dream that it wouldn’t even go over my thighs.”

Some parts of her dress were skin tight so I could believe it especially her reception dress. Well her reception dress was so short. Her ceremony dress was a form fitting mermaid. I didn’t know how she breathed in it.

“You’ve had a fitting you know that’s not true.”

Her brown eyes glimpsed over at me before back to her phone.

“I can’t believe you talked me into eating Jack’s last night.”

I resisted a sigh and eye roll in front of her.

“We were going to be working for a couple more hours and I was starving. I know you were too. Plus you had a salad.”

“Do you know how much fat is in a Caesar salad?” her voice became high pitch.

“Probably less than that slice of cheesecake that I had,” I chuckled.

Her head turned sharply. “You had cheesecake?!”

“I’m joking.”

Not. Totally worth it.

“Okay, because not to sound like that bride, but you all bought your bridesmaid dresses and they need to fit. When I say fit I don’t mean you can see the lumps through the material. That’s not flattering.”

Before I could say another word our instructor walked in and started class. There was a part of me that wanted to challenge Natalie about our dresses. Not that I wanted to replace that dress, it cost an arm and a leg once I bought it and had the alterations done. The shoes she wanted nearly caused me to be short on my rent one month. That was the longest month of living off generic cereal and peanut butter sandwiches.

“Payton wants to go to the bar tonight with all of us girls. That was who I was texting before class.” Natalie called over the bathroom stall.

“The whole bridal party?” I asked as I stepped into the second part of the stall of the shower to dry off from my shower.

Natalie was in the shower stall next to me. I raised an eyebrow though and crossed my fingers.

“Of course! There isn’t much more time left before my wedding and we need as much bonding time as possible. The pictures will look more genuine if you all can get along before the pictures.”

“What was I thinking,” my voice drifted off.

“I swear that accent of yours comes out of nowhere at times.”

“There are enough accents in this city that it can wash mine out a little.”

For the most part my accent was watered down, but I could hear it from time to time. I pulled out my clothes and draped them over my bag.

“So since you decided to break up with Todd a week before I sent out the invitations do you know who your plus one will be?”

I sighed. “Considering I accidently dialed my ex last night, I’m not really searching real hard for a date for the wedding.”

“Wait which one?”

“Which bar?”

“Um probably the usual especially since Sarah knows one of the bartenders.”

Yeah ‘knows’. Mostly the guy she slept with during her dry spells.

I pulled my light purple peasant blouse on and slid my pants up my legs. I sucked in a little to button my pants and I silently cursed at my hips. If it wasn’t for them my pants would be fitting. Fixing my bag I went out in front of the mirror to start fixing my hair a little before putting on make-up that was stored in my gym bag. Thankfully I washed my hair the night before. Leaning over the counter I was putting on my eyeliner as Natalie came out. She was wearing a blue fitted dress that came down to her knees. Her matching heels clank against the tile. She glanced down at her ring that was extended in front of her.

“I can’t get enough of this ring.”

I laughed. “I think you have a lifetime to get used to it. He spoils you.”

She beamed. “He does and I love it.”

Natalie pulled out a small bag and started on her face. She was mostly touching up because I swear she was wearing makeup when I arrived to the class.

“I was working on the tables last night which is why I asked if you knew who your plus one was going to be.”

“You can count me as uno.”

A couple of women wrapped in towels passed us and Natalie waited for them to pass.

“Are you sure, you could bring-”

I laughed. “Yes?”

Who was she going to suggest that I bring?

“I liked Todd.”

I turned to face her. She was running her fingers through her hair.

“Seriously?”

“What? He made you show up on time to places. He has an adult job, which pays well. He has his own place.”

I shrugged. “On paper Todd was perfect, but in practice-”

“Bad kisser?”

I shook my head. “Not what I meant. On paper Todd did have everything checked off. It’s hard finding a guy our age that has an adult job, pays his own bills, doesn’t live with family, and in this city is straight or not trying to become an actor. Yet, I just never felt that spark.”

“So does that mean no to bringing him?”

I hung my head.

“No, I am not bringing Todd to your wedding. I’m pretty sure he is dating someone by now anyway.”

“You missed your chance.”

I looked up at the mirror and my heart swelled. How true were those words? However, Todd didn’t come to mind when she said that phrase.