The entire McCord Family Novel series (Kindle version, a total of 3 books)
The entire One Taste Novel series (Kindle version, a total of 3 books)
A $5 Amazon gift card
The entire One Taste Novel series (Kindle version, a total of 3 books)
A $5 Amazon gift card
Protecting You
A McCord Family Novel
Book 1
Life was good, until it wasn’t.
It can’t get much worse, until it does.
It can’t get much worse, until it does.
Ava Rainer feels responsible for the death of Detective Jimmy McCord. His brother Zane feels the same way toward her. Despises her, in fact. She wants nothing more than to hide away and let the pain consume her. Instead, she’s face-to-face with the one man that scares her in more ways than one. She killed his brother, she shouldn’t be aching for him to take the pain away and love her. But she does. It really can’t get worse than that. Or can it?
Goodreads
Zane cast his line to show her and was pleasantly surprised when she did it decently on the first try. They all sat in silence for a while when Ava spoke. “Is this all we do? Sit here with the line in the water?”
Austin grinned. “Relaxing, isn’t it?”
“No, not really. I want a fish to bite my line.”
“Patience. They will,” Zane said.
“If they don’t?” Ava asked.
“We go home hungry. Defeated. Beaten down by the fishies in the water,” Austin said with mock humor.
Ava laughed. “I refuse to be defeated by a fish. We won’t be leaving until I catch at least one.”
“We’ll stay here all night if that’s what it takes,” Zane said with a smile.
Ava grabbed a beer from the cooler and handed them each one as well. She popped it open and took a long drink. “Good. I’m holding you to that.”
She went back to watching her line intensely. Austin leaned over and whispered in Zane’s ear. “You have it so bad for her, it’s not even funny. Did you tell her you love her yet?”
Zane turned his head slowly and whispered as he glared at his brother. “Remember the pig shit I threw at you? I have no problem tossing you into the water and leaving your ass to swim back to shore.”
Austin laughed, but leaned back nonetheless. Because Zane wasn’t kidding.
Zane glanced back at Ava as she sat intently watching her line. She had a happy anticipatory expression on her face, ready for the fish to attack her line. He grinned at her cuteness. She sat with her rod hanging over the side of the boat, her feet lightly resting on the inside. She leaned back in her chair, her eyes not wavering from the bobber floating freely on the lake.
He shifted slightly in his seat as he looked at her. The glorious sight of her body soaking in the hot sun. The way her shorts rode up, showing more of her thighs than he wanted to see, begging him to touch her. Her tank top was tantalizingly too short. Her cleavage peeked out at him, making him wish she had the swimsuit on. He wanted to see more. He knew exactly how they felt against his chest; he ached to feel them against his hands. Her skin shined in the bright sunlight, soft, luscious.
She started tapping her feet to some beat going on in her head. His eyes beamed in on them, taking his sweet time perusing her body as he went from her sweet, succulent breasts to her pink toenails sparkling like the water. He loved every delicious inch of her body. This was going to be the longest fishing trip he had ever been on. He created this torture by suggesting the trip.
“You keep looking at her like that and she’s going to figure out how you feel,” Austin whispered in his ear.
Zane sucked in a quick breath at being caught staring at her, abruptly turning his eyes away and glared at Austin. “How’d you like that swim now?”
Austin just grinned and leaned back in his chair.
Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2015
Trust In Love
A McCord Family Novel
Book 2
Austin McCord has always enjoyed women…to an extent. He’s all about the fun. Anything beyond that, not so much. Until he meets his neighbor Sophie. He knows he can’t touch her—she has marriage written all over. Except temptation overwhelms him every time he sees her beautiful angelic face. It doesn’t matter. Because whenever he tries to take two steps toward her, she keeps taking three steps back. Someone hurt her, that’s obvious. For the first time, he’s thinking a happily ever after sounds nice. Now his only obstacle is convincing her of the same thing, and keeping her safe before her past tears her apart.
Goodreads
“You keep swearing you know. You shouldn’t swear.”
“Fanuzeling just doesn’t have the same ring to it as the other words, but for you I’ll try harder to remember next time,” he said with a sly grin. “You’re ignoring everything I just said. I’m pouring my heart out here, Sophie, and this is why I hate doing this sort of thing. You’re probably—”
Sophie cut him off by pressing her lips hesitantly to his. Austin needed no further response as he kissed her back, edging his tongue to make her open further. As soon as she did, he dove in fiercely, tangling with her in sweet delight. She moaned as she wrapped her arms around him, clinging to him with desperation. He grabbed her tighter, trying to seep in as much pleasure from her as he could. He loved feeling her in his arms. Even if it crossed his mind to compare her to another woman, which he wouldn’t, he could never compare her.
One of a kind. No woman would ever match his beautiful Sophie.
She was his. He wasn’t letting her go without a fight. She was giving in to him now, but he had his doubts, knowing she would pull away again with fright. Patience was his new middle name.
His hand slid to her bottom, pressing her gently into him, even as he did, knowing he needed to slow down. But he had difficulty pulling away as she felt more delectable in his arms than he could’ve ever imagined. When he felt himself wanting to reach higher for her breast, he finally pulled away. “Sophie, we need to take it inside. But later. We do have other pressing issues at hand. I want you so badly, you have no idea.”
Her heavy breaths took a while to slow down as she adjusted her senses back to the problem they were discussing. “Right. You’re right. I can’t stay with you.”
“Damn it, Sophie. I won’t—”
“You’re swearing,” she said with a smile. God, he loved her smile.
“Well, when you talk such nonsense, my memory of not swearing flies out the door. I said I would give this woman a chance, but I refuse to let you stay alone in this house with someone you just met an hour ago. She could hurt you.”
“You’re not my keeper, Austin. I will not allow a man to run my life any longer, including you.”
He inhaled a patient breath, knowing this is where he needed to tread lightly with her. “I’m not trying to run it or tell you what to do.”
“That’s exactly what you’re doing. You just said you refuse to let me stay alone in this house. It’s my house. You have no say.”
“Okay, wrong choice of words. Will you pretty please stay with me so I know this woman will not hurt you?”
“No.”
He ran another frustrated hand through his hair. “Can I please stay with you in your house so I know you’ll be safe with an unknown woman who could possibly hurt you? We don’t know anything about her.”
Sophie glanced down at his chest. Could she see the way his heart beat madly at the fear he held for her? Could she feel his worry as he held her in his arms?
“I can’t sleep with you.”
He lifted her head gently, her soft cheek falling into his hand. “I don’t expect anything to happen. I enjoy having you in my arms, but I would never force you. I can sleep on the floor if it makes you feel better. Until we get to know her better, we need to be safe about this. Please, Sophie. Pretty please.”
She giggled at his goofy grin when he said the last part. “Why do you make me laugh so?”
“Because I’m adorable, irresistible, and oh so charming. And because I love your smile and your sweet, sweet laugh.”
“I’m scared, Austin. I do trust you, but I’m also apprehensive. Everything you say is valid and I should be smart about letting her in my home. I honestly don’t fear her.”
“But you fear me?” he asked, the pain lacing his voice again.
Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2015
Deserving You
A McCord Family Novel
Book 3
Currently on preorder-releases October 20, 2017
Deja Wilson was given a second chance. She’ll always be grateful to Sophie for her kindness. Now, they’re best friends. The McCords, including Emmett, only like her for Sophie’s sake. It doesn’t stop her from wishing things were different, that she could have a good man like Emmett. When her brother is released from prison and arrested again the same day, she knows Emmett will never want a woman like her. Especially when he learns the truth about why her brother was sent to prison. It doesn’t matter anyway. She doesn’t deserve him.
Emmett McCord has wanted Deja since the moment he met her, despite how she came into their lives. It didn’t take long for him, and the family, to forgive her and see just what kind of woman she is. Strong. Determined. Remorseful. Faithful to a fault. He wants to declare his feelings, but he knows she’ll resist him. He can’t risk losing her friendship. When her brother walks back into her life, causing her pain, he’s done keeping his feelings to himself. He wants her, and she’ll just have to get used to it.
Emmett McCord has wanted Deja since the moment he met her, despite how she came into their lives. It didn’t take long for him, and the family, to forgive her and see just what kind of woman she is. Strong. Determined. Remorseful. Faithful to a fault. He wants to declare his feelings, but he knows she’ll resist him. He can’t risk losing her friendship. When her brother walks back into her life, causing her pain, he’s done keeping his feelings to himself. He wants her, and she’ll just have to get used to it.
Moving closer, his lips brushed her ear as he whispered, “You’re lying.” He rubbed his thumbs across her hands some more as she trembled in his arms. “Talk to me, Deja. Really talk. Just tell me what happened today.”
He kissed her neck below her ear and pulled away. Her eyes would tell him everything he needed to know. And they did. The desire reflected in the depths of her eyes, as did the awe. He had the distinct feeling she never felt true passion before. He’d be more than happy to show her—after she told him what happened.
Just as swiftly, the desire disappeared. “Don’t, Emmett. Just don’t.” Her features turned hard as she stared him down with the evil eye he knew so well.
Deflection. That’s what that look was. He had learned the ins and outs of her so well. The last nine months had given him plenty of time to learn her quirks. She was truly a soft-hearted person inside. Her hard persona was an act. So much anguish she held inside.
“Don’t what, Deja? Don’t try to be a friend? Don’t hold you like you matter to me? Don’t let you see how much I care about you? Don’t make you talk? I don’t listen very well sometimes. Get used to it.”
“Excuse me?” One brow rose as she pursed her lips.
He leaned closer, brushing his lips against hers. She trembled at the touch. He didn’t mind giving her little tastes of how good it could be if they were together. She’d give in eventually. She’d talk and then he would show her how much he cared about her.
“I said get used to it.” His lips made one more light sweep across her delectable mouth. “I can see you’re hurting. Something bad happened today—besides the car accident—and I want to help. I’ll show you real desire as soon as you talk to me. I’ve wanted you for a long time. It’s nice to know you want me, too. So, get used to it. Get used to me. I’m not going anywhere.”
“I don’t want you. I just want sex,” she scoffed, as if she were trying to make it sound believable. He knew better.
“You’re so cute when you try to lie.”
“I’m not lying.”
“Did I ever tell you that you have such gorgeous eyes? They sparkle like the deep blue ocean.” He smiled. “When you lie, they flash a shade of purple. It’s the strangest thing I’ve ever seen. It’s so damn beautiful.”
“Let me go, Emmett.”
He didn’t release his hold. If anything, he held her hands tighter. “Did I ever tell you that I love how you say my name? The nickname you gave me just doesn’t have the same ring to it.”
“Stop it.”
“Did I ever tell you that you look so adorable when you’re trying to look hard and tough? But you know what? You’re a softie. So sweet and delicate.”
“Knock it off.”
“Did I ever tell you—”
“Shut up, Emmett!”
“Did I ever tell you—”
She let out a mangled cry that cut his words right off. Burying her head into his chest, her tears soaked right through him. They were fast and rough. So much pain it broke his heart.
He let go of her hands and wrapped her as tightly as he possibly could. “You don’t have to do things alone anymore, Deja.”
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
Merry Me
A Holiday Romance Series
Book 1
Chief Elliot Duncan hasn't enjoyed Christmas since his mother passed away three years ago. She always managed to make each day, from the start of December to Christmas morning, a special one. When an unmarked gift lands on his doorstep, an elegant card attached with such Christmas wisdom, it touches his heart. But a sudden compulsion to find the owner and promptly return the gift consumes him. He never imagined searching for the owner would lead him to an amazing single mother with a delightful seven-year-old little girl.
Lynn Carpenter is a vision of beauty, and she loves Christmas. Wanting a woman who loves Christmas is just wrong. Yet, he can't stay away from her. As Christmas approaches, Lynn manages to make the holiday pleasant for once. Apprehension fills his soul that she'll hate him for lying, keeping the gift a secret. She's a proud woman. He knows she won't like him trying to give it back. The only thing he wants for Christmas is her heart.
Goodreads
Lynn Carpenter is a vision of beauty, and she loves Christmas. Wanting a woman who loves Christmas is just wrong. Yet, he can't stay away from her. As Christmas approaches, Lynn manages to make the holiday pleasant for once. Apprehension fills his soul that she'll hate him for lying, keeping the gift a secret. She's a proud woman. He knows she won't like him trying to give it back. The only thing he wants for Christmas is her heart.
Goodreads
“Geez, I’m so sorry. I can’t believe I almost knocked you down. It’s a surprise to see you again so soon, Lynn.”
Her eyes slowly lifted from the white packed ground to the face of the man she had been trying to forget.
Why was she trying to forget him again? Even with gloves covering his hands, the tiny sparks of desire shocked her very core.
“Elliot. Just the man I was looking for. No apologies necessary.” She politely extracted her arm from his grip and took a step back. Space was good. Lots of space.
A warm smile produced the dimples she just loved. “You were looking for me? Should I be worried or excited?”
Laughing, she tugged on her purse to dig for the fifty. “That depends. And this by no means is meant as an insult or my ungratefulness. It was truly a kind gesture.”
Elliot frowned. “You have me confused. Which makes me lean towards worried.”
“You were thoughtful with the tip you left, but I can’t accept this much money. While I appreciate the kind gesture, it’s just too much. I basically insulted you by throwing Christmas in your face and the coffee didn’t seem as good as you probably like it. Here you go.”
Like the lead on a fishing line, her hand dangled in the air wanting to fall in despair as she waited for him to take it. Why wasn’t he taking it? And that frown. How much lower could he possibly get it?
“I already told you I wasn’t offended. And the coffee was great. You deserved every bit of that tip I left. Not to mention I left abruptly. Please keep it.”
His roughened glove clutched her hand, pushing it toward her purse. Putting on gloves of her own would’ve been very wise. Perhaps that would’ve helped to create a better barrier at his electrifying touch.
“I insist.” She halted her hand to go any further, forming a small tug of war with him.
Elliot lightly laughed as he let go of her hand. “I don’t wish to fight with you, Lynn. That’s the furthest thing from my mind.”
His sweet, yet masculine laugh, almost made her knees buckle. What was front and center in his mind then?
“Good. Here you go.”
Ignoring her, he gestured down the sidewalk. “I just had a helluva afternoon. Care to join me for a cup of coffee? I’ll show you just how good yours really was. The coffee this way can’t even compare.”
Mimicking his frown from earlier, her fist clenched the fifty. “I think you’re trying to appease me so I forget about the money. I don’t forget things, Elliot.”
“Maybe I just want to enjoy your company. Is that so hard to believe?”
“Take the money and I’ll believe you.”
“Follow me and I’ll consider it.”
She couldn’t resist that lovable smile of his or the way his eyes glittered with anticipation. “Fine. One cup. And you will take the money.”
“We’ll see. I’m not officially convinced yet.” He chuckled as he placed a hand on her back briefly, then let it fall as they made their way down the sidewalk.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2016)
Misteltoe Magic
A Holiday Romance Series
Book 2
Currently on preorder-releases December 1, 2017
Theresa might not make the best pot of coffee in town, but people still flock to the diner for a cup, even Officer Crowl, who rarely displays a smile since his fiancé died. She’ll never be able to win his heart, but it’s hard to resist him, especially when he kisses her under the mistletoe. Well, on the cheek, but that has to count for something…right?
Staying busy keeps Officer Aiden Crowl sane. Because when he’s idle or alone, he thinks, and nothing good comes from that. Everyone thinks he was the perfect man. They think he’s broken because she’s gone. He is, just not for the reason they believe. Every time he walks into the diner, one sweet smile from Theresa erases some of the pain. He should stay away from her. Far away. But what is he supposed to do when they’re standing under a mistletoe? Kiss her, of course.
Staying busy keeps Officer Aiden Crowl sane. Because when he’s idle or alone, he thinks, and nothing good comes from that. Everyone thinks he was the perfect man. They think he’s broken because she’s gone. He is, just not for the reason they believe. Every time he walks into the diner, one sweet smile from Theresa erases some of the pain. He should stay away from her. Far away. But what is he supposed to do when they’re standing under a mistletoe? Kiss her, of course.
Wait, what?
Sure, she had a beautiful smile, but that’s it. Nothing more. He couldn’t afford to think of anything else about her as beautiful. While he liked how kind she could be, he didn’t like that she always let her brother get away with the way he acted.
Knocking quietly on the door, he spoke in a soft voice. “Theresa? It's Officer Crowl. Can you open the door? He’s gone.”
The door swung open and his heart stopped beating. The pain in her eyes almost had him pulling her into his arms to take it away. Then, just as swiftly, it disappeared as he effectively pushed those annoying emotions away. No good would come from feeling that way.
“Oh, my! He hit you. You’re bleeding.”
Fireworks exploded in an instant when she grabbed his hand and yanked him inside. There was nothing gentle in the way she pulled him down the hallway and into the living room. Maybe she thought he’d resist. Damn it, he would’ve if not for the way her touch was playing hell with his body.
The brief times they touched, just a little brush of fingers as she handed him a coffee, he felt it. That something. He couldn’t describe what it was, because he didn’t like to think about it. Thinking was bad.
But right here and now. The way she grasped his hand, holding on with a firm grip, he couldn’t ignore what that something was.
Desire.
He hated it.
Disengaging his hand from hers, almost rude-like, he took a step away from the couch where she wanted him to take a seat.
She looked puzzled. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…have a seat. I’ll go get a washcloth.”
Before he could protest, she scurried away. His feet ached to run. To flee as fast as possible, yet he stood immobile. Her soft touch still lingered on his palm.
No! It was all wrong. He shouldn’t—couldn’t—feel this way. He’d ruin her. Just like he ruined—
He squeezed his eyes shut as he tried to block his mind from any thought that would pull him down into the rabbit hole. His dizzying thoughts jumbled into one big mess until his heart skipped a beat. Her hand touched him again. Popping open his eyes, he stared straight into her eyes, not missing the pain that was back in her green depths. Before, her brother put it there. This time, he did it.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017 – Unedited, subject to change.)
One Taste Of You
One Taste Series (Romantic Suspense)
Book 1
One night of glorious bliss.
One night turned into utter humiliation.
Zoe Sullivan doesn't want to see the man who took her for a prostitute ever again. But when her boss is murdered, she can't believe who the lead detective on the case is.
One idiotic mistake.
One more chance to make it right.
Detective Zeke Chance vows to make it up to Zoe for the way he treated her. Nothing will stop him—except maybe the killer.
♡ Warning: This novel contains a sexy detective. There is insta-lust turned into insta-love. If you don't want to read that kind of book, turn back now! But you know you wanna. ♡
One night turned into utter humiliation.
Zoe Sullivan doesn't want to see the man who took her for a prostitute ever again. But when her boss is murdered, she can't believe who the lead detective on the case is.
One idiotic mistake.
One more chance to make it right.
Detective Zeke Chance vows to make it up to Zoe for the way he treated her. Nothing will stop him—except maybe the killer.
♡ Warning: This novel contains a sexy detective. There is insta-lust turned into insta-love. If you don't want to read that kind of book, turn back now! But you know you wanna. ♡
Deep breath. He could do this.
“What did you find?” Dee demanded.
“Nice to see you again, too,” Zeke said.
“You didn’t answer my question because…” Dee waited for him to answer.
He cocked a brow. Why couldn’t he be nice? The best way into Zoe’s good graces could possibly be through her friends.
“I have no answer yet. We’re still working on it.”
“Can she go get her clothes?” Dee asked.
“Why?”
“Because, Einstein, you told her she couldn’t stay here tonight and she needs clothes to wear tomorrow,” Dee snapped.
“Where are you staying, Zoe?” He turned towards her. Not much was written on her face. Not anger, nor fear.
Before Zoe could respond, Dee blurted, “With me. You honestly don’t think she’s staying with you—douche man. Do you?”
“I don’t think she should be staying with you either,” Zeke said, grinding his teeth as he tried not to yell.
“I certainly won’t hurt her like you have. I don’t think you should be given the chance she’s giving you. I want you to stay away from her,” Dee said firmly, shoving her finger against his chest to make him move back.
Zeke barely budged an inch, although, his hand flinched. Sure, he could arrest her for pushing a cop, but she was only protecting her friend. He could respect that. Not that he wanted to. And while he might deserve every word she said, he refused to back down.
“Yeah, and how are you going to protect her when they come for her at your place?”
Silence filled the circle. Even Dee became speechless, as her lips froze in place to look like a fish blowing bubbles.
“Do you think they will follow me wherever I go?” Zoe asked, finally breaking the silence.
Zeke could act like a devil and knew what worked for him. He stepped closer and grabbed her hands. “Yes. I don’t want to think about what could’ve happened if you had been home. They want something that they think you have. Just because they couldn’t find it in your house doesn’t mean they’ll stop. I keep saying they, but it could be Murphy. He’s our prime suspect right now.”
Zeke pulled her even closer and bent his head toward her ear. “Stay with me, Zoe. This…whatever is between us…you’re important to me even if I have a hard time showing it sometimes.”
He kissed her neck, hoping to erase the tiny tremors consuming her body. The longer he held her, the more he could feel them slowly diminishing. Keeping physical contact always seemed to be the trick to calm her down and make her see things his way.
Yeah, that did make him kind of despicable. But he had to use what worked to get his way. Losing her was not an option.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
One Taste Of Love
One Taste Series (Romantic Suspense)
Book 2
Rina Chastain wants to give in to Ben, but she can't. And she means can't every time she tells him so. Her father would ruin it. He always does. Yet, Ben's so charming she can't help but give in. One thing's for sure. The relationship is doomed to fail—by a serial killer, or her meddling father.
♡ Warning: This novel contains a sexy detective. There is insta-love. If you don't want to read that kind of book, turn back now! But you know you wanna. ♡
Goodreads
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He slowly turned around, her hand falling to her side. The counter dug into his back as he slumped against it. “I never said I hated you, Rina. You’re the one who said those words to me.”
She frowned as she took a step back.
Now she needed space from him. Did she truly believe he would hurt her? “I’ve never met anyone who could slice me into two without raising one part of her voice. Your soft words, the things you say in general, always manage to come out as if you’re yelling, putting a person in their place. I would never hurt you, no matter what you said or did to me.”
Her face fell into agony. “I don’t do relationships well. I rarely date. It’s best I don’t. I didn’t mean to say those words. Honestly, Ben, I’m sorry for ever saying that. Please believe me. I know you’d never hurt me.”
What did she mean, it’s best I don’t?
The anguish written on her face made him want to wrap her up into his arms and kiss the daylights out of her. Her hands trembled by her sides. Why did it still look like she thought he’d hurt her?
“Let’s just move on, Rina. Now that Zeke and Zoe know, they’ll quit bugging me to ask you out. No hard feelings.”
She hesitated before saying, “I’m sorry for knocking on your door so late. It won’t happen again.”
“No worries. I apologize for getting upset and speaking to you the way I did. I’ll walk you out.” He gestured for her to lead the way.
She had to leave. Now. Each minute that ticked by made him want to throw caution to the wind and pull her into his arms. She stood close to him as they walked to the door, the tantalizing scent of vanilla wafting to his nose. He wanted to get closer to find where the smell originated from. Her neck? Her hair? Her mouth? She smelled so sweet.
As they approached the door, she reached for the doorknob first. His heart dipped to the floor as she started to turn the knob. Watching her leave wasn’t something he was fond of. What he wouldn’t give to change this all to his favor. But that would never happen.
Her hand suddenly stiffened. She turned around with one hand still gripping the knob behind her back. “I’m so sorry, Ben. I said I can’t date you. It doesn’t mean I don’t want to.”
Her face bloomed a deep red. His eyes flared as he took a few steps toward her, leaving barely an inch between their bodies.
“Do you enjoy messing with my heart, Rina?”
Her eyes zoomed to his lips. “No.”
“Then why would you say I’m not right for you, and in another breath, say you want to date me but can’t. What am I missing here? When I ask a woman out, it should be a simple yes or no.”
“Nothing in my life is simple. I always wanted a simple life.”
“I always thought you had a simple life. What’s wrong? You know I will always help you.” He boxed her in further by putting his hands, one on each side of the door, near her head.
“You can’t help me, Ben,” she whispered with a desperation that scared him.
“I really hate the word can’t every time it leaves your mouth. Because, damn it, I can help you. If you’re in trouble, I need to know.” His voice held no arguments, just a demand she tell him the truth.
“I should go. Can you move?”
Leaning closer, he finally saw it, something he missed every time he spoke to her. A flame of desire.
His mouth brushed her lips. “No, I can’t.”
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
One Taste Of Crazy
One Taste Series (Romantic Suspense)
Book 3
Dee O’Malley isn’t naïve to think she’ll ever find love. Men never stick around. Ever. Not even a relationship with sweet, shy Sauer would last. But it’s oh so tempting to start one, especially when his kisses insist it’s possible. That doesn’t mean his kisses will stop her from finding the bastard who attacked her, something that riles him up. Besides, he’s adorable when he gets upset. And she can’t resist that.
♡ Warning: This novel contains a sexy detective. There is insta-love. But it’s book three so you probably know that already if you read the first two. *wink* Happy reading! ♡
One second he was wrapping his hands around her throat, and the next he was jumping up and running out of her room. She didn’t understand why until someone burst into her room, a gun waving in her face. She almost picked up her bloody heel to whip it at his face until she realized he was in a uniform. Officer Spencer. Decent guy, most of the time.
He had helped her outside to the ambulance that arrived rather quickly. Or maybe more time passed than she realized. She didn’t know what was going on. Her head pounded. Her nerves were wired high. For the first time in her life, she felt truly afraid.
“What are you doing?”
Dee glanced up to a face filled with so much agony, if she hadn’t been sitting, she would’ve fallen to her knees. “Sauer?”
He looked panicked before stepping into her space, his lips getting precariously close to hers. “You called me. You…put that damn gauze back on your head.” He grabbed her hand and shoved the gauze back to the small cut she received fighting with her attacker.
Well, he didn’t exactly shove it, but the touch of his hand anywhere on her was a serious jolt to her body.
“You’re bleeding. Don’t you dare take this off until it stops.”
“Most of this isn’t my blood.”
He leaned closer again, his eyes directly on hers. She noticed he couldn’t take his eyes away from her. Was it because he enjoyed looking at her so intensely? Or was it because he couldn’t stand to see the blood covering her body?
“Dee…”
“I’m fine.”
“You are not fine. You were attacked in your home. You’re bleeding—”
“I’m fine.”
“And the man—”
“I’m totally fine.”
“Got away before—”
“It’s not a big—”
Lips covered hers, effectively cutting off more of her protests that she was fine. Who was she kidding? She wasn’t fine. She wasn’t even close to being fine. Not when Sauer’s lips were anchored to her as if she would sink to the bottom of the ocean unless he kept her afloat.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
Sunrise AwakeningBook 1
One thing has always driven Maddie Dalton up the wall—her brother acting too overprotective. After meeting Jake Anders, who makes her heart race, she finds he has the same annoying trait. Yet, she can't help falling in love with him despite that. Of course, she should give him a small reprieve since someone's stalking her. If only she could find the nerve to tell him.
Jake's life is finally back on track, especially after meeting Maddie. When a murder rocks his small town, his life suddenly turns into chaos. The killer doesn't stop at one body either. As he digs deeper into each case, he realizes Maddie is at the center of it all. He only wants to protect her, yet she fights him every step of the way. He'll do anything to keep her safe, including telling her what to do.
Jake's life is finally back on track, especially after meeting Maddie. When a murder rocks his small town, his life suddenly turns into chaos. The killer doesn't stop at one body either. As he digs deeper into each case, he realizes Maddie is at the center of it all. He only wants to protect her, yet she fights him every step of the way. He'll do anything to keep her safe, including telling her what to do.
Note: This book can be read as a standalone and ends with a happily ever after. However, if you read the epilogue, it will entice you to read book two, Sunset Darkening.
The weekend came quickly. Jake couldn’t have been happier. Every day after work, he spent his time with Maddie. She kept him sane when all he wanted to do was run away.
This murder, the lack of evidence, drove him crazy. The memories didn’t help either. He moved to lessen the pain. His memories resurfacing like a vengeance only made the pain flare up.
When Maddie mentioned going home for the weekend, he didn’t hesitate to ask her to stay in Nisswa. Going home to an empty house wasn’t something he wanted to do. Being alone made it all worse. Her mere presence calmed him like nothing else ever did.
Needing a semi-excuse to entice her to stay, he mentioned a great hiking trail about thirty minutes away that he’d been meaning to check out. She had readily agreed.
His focus should be on the case, but with no new evidence and lack of leads, he didn’t know where to proceed. It all weighed him down. The chief noticed. His brother noticed.
He just needed a break. Maddie provided the perfect distraction. He couldn’t get enough of seeing her.
Packing a picnic, still trying the romantic route with her, they hiked all day at the Foot Hills State Forest. Some parts of the trail were strenuous. He almost wasn’t that sorry as it gave him several opportunities to help Maddie along. Any reason to touch her silky skin. To see her face bloom a deep red. Or the way she’d mercifully twirl her hair. Beautiful in every way.
She never shied away from him. Hell, he even thought she faked needing help a few times just so he would grab a hold of her. Each time, he’d grab a kiss before letting her go. She didn’t shy away, but he also knew she wasn’t ready for more. He was okay with that.
When they got back to the car, Maddie pulled her phone out of her purse. She trembled next to him. So obvious, he knew right away that something was wrong.
“Everything okay?”
She smiled lightly. “Of course. Just tired from the day.”
Jake sighed. Didn’t she trust him? He knew there was something bothering her. Why wouldn’t she just tell him? He’d do everything in his power to help her. To fix the problem.
Shifting the car in gear, he turned towards home.
“I had fun today. We should do this again. There’s so many great places around here we could hike. I’d love to show you my favorite places, especially since you don’t know the area as well as I do. What made you want to move here?”
Jake glanced at her. A sweet smile, no tension whatsoever in her features. Perhaps if he shared a bit of himself, she’d feel more comfortable divulging what was bothering her. Not that he wanted to talk about why he moved. He never wanted to talk about it.
(Copyright © 2015 Amanda Siegrist, Re-release 2017)
Sunset DarkeningBook 2
Lucas Dalton just wants to move on—do his job. He wants to focus on finding the man who killed three women and nearly took his sister's life. It remains difficult with all the reporters flooding his door, especially from Elle Conners, investigative reporter. She's looking for an exclusive interview, something Lucas and his sister have never provided. He surely isn't going to start now. It doesn't matter how gorgeous or tempting she is.
When a new murder rocks his small town, he assumes the killer has come back for more. Until the dots start connecting to Elle, the one woman he can't seem to get out of his mind. He discovers why she needed that exclusive so badly, to rebuild her life from an attack two years ago. Now she needs him for so much more—to keep her safe. He'll not only catch this new killer, but try to win her heart.
Goodreads
When a new murder rocks his small town, he assumes the killer has come back for more. Until the dots start connecting to Elle, the one woman he can't seem to get out of his mind. He discovers why she needed that exclusive so badly, to rebuild her life from an attack two years ago. Now she needs him for so much more—to keep her safe. He'll not only catch this new killer, but try to win her heart.
Goodreads
“Can I come in? Please.”
Elle thought about arguing the point, but instead, stepped back and gestured for him to enter.
Lucas walked in and glanced around. Her room was a mess. Her purse was lying on the ground near the door. Her suitcase was propped open against the wall with clothes spilling out. The sheets on the bed were in a tangled mess. He took a spot next to the small sofa near the window, then turned around.
“What did I do now? I haven’t been anywhere but my room all day.” Elle picked up her purse and tossed it on the bed, then sat down.
Lucas gave the bed another look, the covers twisted in disarray, then quickly looked at her. “I was worried about you. When I came back out of the garage you had already left and that surprised me.” Lucas sat down on the sofa. “I’ve gotten used to you roaming around town and you weren’t today. I was just worried.”
“I didn’t think you even liked me, let alone worried about me.”
“Elle, you had a gun pointed at you today and saw a man shoot himself. Yeah, I’m worried.” Lucas rubbed his jaw as he stood up. “Unless that’s a normal occurrence for you.”
“You just called me Elle. Does that make us friends now? Actually, you called me Elle back at the garage, too.”
Lucas sat down again on the sofa looking directly into her eyes. “Emily already had an evening report out about what happened. I saw nothing in the Los Angeles Chronicle written by you. Why? Actually, I haven’t seen any articles written by you since you appeared in town.”
Elle averted her eyes. “Why do you care? Quit keeping tabs on me.”
“I keep—”
“Right. You keep tabs on all the reporters.”
“I just came to make sure you’re okay. It was a tense situation.”
“I’m fine. I fell asleep. So much for getting the story in before the end of the day,” she said with a short laugh. He probably thought her pathetic. But when she looked into his eyes, she only saw concern, unnerving her further.
Lucas stood up again. She thought he was going to leave. Instead, he sat down next to her on the bed. “If you need to talk, I’m here. I’m still waiting to hear your story. I’m surprised you haven’t approached me about it. I thought you really wanted that exclusive.”
Elle stared at him, breathing him in. He sat so close to her it was difficult to focus. She could smell a hint of coffee, a little woodsy scent, too. It reminded her of when she went on the trail in Nisswa. Fresh outdoor air. Was he in the woods today? She liked the smell. She wanted to lean closer. He sat close, but not close enough to touch. Suddenly, she yearned for his touch. Anything. His aroma drew her in.
“Elle,” Lucas whispered softly, as he brought his hand to her cheek and slowly caressed it.
She closed her eyes, savoring the feeling, his soft touch. Is this what it felt like to be protected? She knew she would be safe as long as he was near. As long as he touched her. She leaned into his touch, his hand never wavering.
“Elle,” he whispered again.
She loved the sound of her name coming from his sweet lips. She could feel his breath on her face. Smell the delicious taste of coffee. She opened her eyes to see him inches from her. He brought his other hand up and pulled her lips toward his. He lightly kissed her at first. Then increased the kiss, urging her to open up.
She didn’t need any more encouragement. Her hands snaked to his chest, grabbing his shirt in a fistful, and kissed him back as if her life depended on it. She had never felt this powerful attraction with another man before. She never wanted it to end.
Lucas started to lower her to the bed, cradling her underneath him. A loud piercing ring erupted from his pocket.
The sudden noise made him jump. He let her go and quickly stood up from the bed. “I’m so sorry, Elle. I didn’t mean to do that.” He pulled his phone out of his pocket and turned away from her. “Hey, what’s up, Jake?”
(Copyright © 2015 Amanda Siegrist, Re-release 2017)
Escaping MemoriesA Lucky Town Novel
Book 1
Sheriff Logan Caldwell just wants to keep his beloved county safe, yet feels like he fails when a father kills his own daughter. Open and close case. Nothing more for him to do but start his vacation like he originally planned before that tragedy swallowed him whole. He never imagined the day would get worse when he finds a woman in his cabin. She's dirty and bruised with blood all over her body. She has no memory—of anything. He failed the little girl, but he won't fail this woman. He swears he'll find out who hurt her, keep her safe, and help her gain her memory back. Only problem is, he just might fall in love with her at the same time.
He hated to move her. The thought of her waking up at the jarring movement was a distressing notion. How would she react if he wasn’t in the room when she woke up? He saw the fear in her eyes when he stepped outside and each time out of the bathroom. It had immediately melted away when he stepped back into her view. He didn’t know what that meant and refused to dwell on the matter. Instead, he grabbed another pillow, some blankets, and made a small bed on the floor next to the couch. Before long, he was sleeping just like her.
He had no idea the time, but it was still dark out when a piercing scream pelted his ears. He jerked upright to see her thrashing on the couch, crying, “Please, stop! Let me go! No, no, no!”
Before he could crawl over to the couch and quiet her down, she tumbled onto the floor next to him. It should’ve woken her up, but it only increased her cries, “Don’t hit me! Please, let me go!”
A fist came towards his face as he grabbed her by the shoulders, yet managed to dodge the blow. “Hey, honey, shh. It’s alright, it’s Logan. Come back to me.”
She continued to fight in his arms, screaming terrifying words, and flailing everywhere. He finally had no choice but to roll on top of her and pin her down gently. “Sweetheart, hear my voice. It’s Logan. I won’t hurt you. Please, stop. Wake up.”
Her screaming stopped, but she continued to lightly struggle beneath him. “That’s right, honey. Don’t fight me. It’s Logan. You’re safe. I won’t hurt you.”
Her struggling turned into jerky movements as she started to cry. Her arms wound around his neck and held him tightly. “Logan. Oh, God, Logan.”
He pulled her closer and rolled to his back, bringing her body with him. “Shh, it’s okay. You’re safe.”
“Don’t let him find me, Logan,” she whispered in a strangled breath.
“Who, honey, tell me?” he whispered back, hugging her tighter.
“I don’t know.”
Before he could stop, a chuckle escaped.
“You find that humorous,” she said softly, yet no anger lacing within the words.
“No, I don’t. It’s just you say it in this...voice that...I don’t know why I laughed. What do you remember? The things you were screaming, well, they weren’t pretty.”
“I don’t...it was dark. A very small room with no windows. I saw chains on my wrists and he was hitting me. He kept saying something.”
“What did he say?”
“I couldn’t make it out. My mind only registered the pain.”
“Can you describe what he looks like? His voice, even if you can’t remember the words?”
“No. It wasn’t a clear picture. I don’t want that memory. Take it away, Logan,” she cried as she buried her head into his chest.
He squeezed her tighter and heard her breathing become ragged. With a soothing hand, he started to rub her back. Her tears were like a stake to the heart. So damn painful to hear. “I’m sorry that you had that horrible nightmare. I’m sorry if I just hurt you. If I could take all the pain away, I would.”
She continued to lightly cry into his chest as he rubbed her back softly, whispering encouraging words. Before long, her tears morphed into silence. Tiny breaths left her mouth as she finally fell into a peaceful sleep. He kissed the top of her head and tried to fall back asleep with the beautiful angel in his arms.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2016)
The Danger With Love
Special Agent Dax Delcroy never wanted this assignment. Being old college roommates with the groom meant the case was his anyway. Get in and get out. Get the information to take down the bride’s father, the most ruthless mobster in the city. It should all be so easy. Except nothing is easy the minute he meets her.
Goodreads
Swiping another glass of champagne from the passing tray, Dax took a deep swig before reminding himself he needed to tone down the drinking. He was supposed to be working, not getting shit-faced drunk.
The thought was appealing, though, especially every time he saw Sarafina’s beautiful face, and he saw it a lot, considering he purposely made a point to seek her out. Unobtrusively, of course. It wouldn’t do well for her to know he was looking at her, or anyone else. Particularly Martin Chilani, or even Travis Chilani.
He didn’t have a full dossier on Travis. But there wasn’t much to report since, as far as they could tell, he wasn’t involved hands-on in the organization. His criminal activity didn’t concern Dax at the moment. No. He wanted to know what his relationship to Sarafina was.
Dancing, laughing, even some kissing had been going on between the two, making him want to break something every time his lips connected with her. Sure, it wasn’t on the actual mouth. A peck on the cheek here, another peck on the cheek there. But his lips anywhere on her for any reason made Dax want to get his gun and shoot him.
He shouldn’t be having this reaction, especially over a woman he just met. Every time his eyes glossed over to her, the protective feelings swarmed inside, begging to be released.
The fact was, Travis Chilani couldn’t be trusted. His last name assured that he couldn’t be trusted and he wanted him nowhere near Sarafina just for that reason.
It wasn’t that easy. He couldn’t waltz up to her and tell her why she should maintain her distance from any member of the Chilani family, Lily included. She would certainly look at him like horns were sticking out of his hair and perhaps a little crazy in the head. Questions would be asked, suspicions would rise, and his cover would be blown.
The best thing he could do was wipe her from his memory. Forget she ever existed. She was merely another female that would complain in his ear that he didn’t talk enough, or that he worked too much, or he didn’t show her enough affection. Just another woman.
His eyes zoomed in on her again as she continued making her rounds around the ballroom, talking, laughing, and enjoying herself with everyone. Most from the Chilani family or connections to the family.
Damn his concern for her. Not only protective-like either. How much knowledge did she have of the family? What if she knew all about their operations? Was she dating Travis, fully aware of what happened behind closed doors? Could he extract all of his intel he needed from her?
Her face lit up with delight as she laughed at what her companion said, a halo of innocence surrounding her.
How could he use her to complete his job? He didn’t want to believe she could be involved or have any knowledge about these people. Pretending ignorance would be best. He wasn’t sure he would have the gumption to slap a pair of handcuffs on her.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
Paint By Murder
Short Story
Romantic Suspense
Ginny Appleby doesn’t create works of art with beauty and happiness. She paints brutality, death, and the pain hidden inside. He’ll never understand that. He’ll never understand her and why she does what she does. Her life has always been filled with terror. And if he sticks around, he’ll die.
Detective Alex Brands can’t assume anything other than Ginny is a killer. Why else would she paint such disturbing images? Why was an innocent woman murdered and the crime scene replicated just as she painted it? None of it makes sense. And his gut is silent.Until it rips through him so sharply he almost falls to his knees. She’s innocent… and in need of his protection. He’ll do everything in his power to keep her safe from a killer, even if she wants nothing to do with him. He knows what he wants. And he wants her with every breath in his body.
*Note: This is a romantic suspense short story inspired by weekly flash fiction I write. There is insta-love. Like, insta-insta-love. When they fall, they fall hard! Doesn’t that sound thrilling? You know it does! Happy reading:)
He picked up the folder, leaving his badge on the table and placed a photo before her.
Bright flashes of color. Red shouting from corner to corner, almost seeping from the paper onto the table and right into her hands. Her painting. She named each painting as if they were her babies. A part of her soul. This particular painting she named, “Drenched in Blood.” Oh, yeah. She didn’t paint the pretty pictures with flowers or nature or color splashed over the canvas with happiness.
No. She painted brutality, death, the pain hidden inside.
This painting was of a young woman draped over the side of a bed, blood dripping to the floor and graced all over her body. Stab wounds from head to toe, sprinkled around like one would dot holes in a rum cake for the rum glaze to enhance the flavor by making sure it hit every corner.
“This one is quite vivid. The details you managed to capture…” His eyes pierced her with heavy unease. “Do you always paint murders?”
“I never paint…” She tapped the photo, showing not only him, but herself, the picture didn’t affect her. “This isn’t murder. If you can’t look at my paintings and see the real meaning behind them, then you’re an idiot.”
She leaned back in her chair too tired, too strung out from her harrowing emotions to care that she insulted him.
He opened the folder again, then placed another photo over the first one.
She scrambled away from the table so fast, her chair toppled over. Her legs barely kept her standing, but she dug deep for the strength she knew would shatter any second.
He tapped the photo. “This looks like murder to me. Nothing but a crime. A crime I will solve.”
Staring at the exact replica of her painting she created six months ago, a tear slid out.
Someone stole her work.
Someone made her painting come alive more than she ever could.
Someone killed a real woman and copied her painting to the T, right down to the blood trailing down the side of the bed, her arm hanging loosely to the floor, her fingers dipping into her own blood.
“Tell me, Ms. Appleby. Did you do this yourself, or do you have a partner?”
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
Follow Me, Sweet Darling
Short Story
Spine-Chilling
Addilyn Stratten doesn't know how, or who, murdered her sister until she starts digging into the history of the house her sister was murdered in. The more she digs into the house, the more she senses the need to flee as far as she can get.
Detective Eddie Kline is there every step of the way, providing the common sense that a real-live person killed her sister, not the house.
But as each minute ticks by, Addy fears the house is at the root of it all. Each time she hears those horrifying words, she wants to run away. Who keeps whispering, Follow Me, Sweet Darling?
*Note: This is not a romance. This is a standalone short story. This isn't part of a series. Enjoy a spine-tingling short story that will keep you turning the pages until the end.
This room.
This was it.
This was the room Sarah died in. It made her a touch nervous. But before she could stop herself, and the nagging feeling she should turn around and flee from the house, she grabbed the knob and twisted.
Ever so slowly, she opened the door, her eyes widening in terror. Frozen in shock, her eyes shifted from wall to wall, taking her time to register each wall in its horrifying state. She felt as if her feet were glued to the floor, her head fixated at the room with no chance of turning around even if she wanted to. She stood there for what felt like ages, when in reality, it was mere seconds.
Just a few seconds to process the blood splattered on every inch of the room. Twisting patterns of blood covered the walls, dripping slowly to the floor. The bed, swathed in tangled sheets, held splashes of deep red in every corner. She shook her head, trying to dispel the sickening sight in front of her, but unable to avert her eyes from the fact that not one inch of the room was left untouched by the gruesome blood. She had no idea a human body contained so much blood. She couldn’t even begin to imagine…her sister died here? What happened to her?
Her terror finally left her eyes and released throughout her mouth with a bloodcurdling scream.
She didn’t know how long she let loose with her screams. But she was jolted out of her stupor when a man pushed her behind him and stepped inside the room waving his gun back and forth.
“Police! Hands up.”
She watched dumbfounded as he searched the room, making sure to open the closet door and peer under the bed. Not a trace of anyone. He walked to her as she clutched her arms across her chest in a tightened frenzy.
“Are you okay? Why did you scream? Is someone in the house?”
“The…the blood…it’s just so much. How can so much blood come out of one person? The blood…” Addy’s voice trailed off as her eyes stayed glued to the doorway.
He glanced behind him into the room, his eyebrows puckering into confusion. “What are you talking about? What blood?”
Addy finally moved her eyes from the horror to the man standing in front of her.
“Are you okay, ma’am? Are you Addilyn Stratten, Sarah’s sister?”
Addy tried pushing her hair behind her ear, realizing it was in a ponytail and couldn’t be pushed back. Her hand shook as she lowered it. “I am. How did you know who I am?”
“I talked to your mother again today and she told me you were on your way. That’s why I’m here. I wanted to talk to you about your sister’s case.”
“Have you found who killed her? How did she die?”
“We have no suspects at this time. And she died…from…does it matter? I don’t think it’ll help to know.” He paused. “I’m Detective Eddie Kline. Why don’t we go downstairs and talk a bit?”
Eddie gestured with his hand for her to start walking towards the stairs. She stared at him with bafflement. “But the blood…why won’t you tell me how she died? There’s so much blood.”
He dropped his hand and wiped it on his thigh nervously. “I’m not sure what blood you’re talking about.”
Addy shoved him aside and walked into the room whipping her arms out towards the walls. “This blo—” She froze in place as she eyed everything in the room again. Flawless white walls, a flower patterned comforter tucked nicely onto the bed, an oak dresser shining like new, but within it all, not one drop of blood spread anywhere in the room. “I don’t understand. This room was full of blood. I saw it.”
Eddie stepped into the room, standing precariously close to her. “This room was cleaned a few days ago. How could you have possibly seen it if you just arrived today?”
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2015)
Delilah
Short Story
Fear of heights, even in a high-rise building, always unnerves Delilah Thomas. When her hair, long as can be, almost gets stuck in the elevator doors, she’s instantly drawn to her rescuer. Perhaps her fear of heights isn’t so bad when he’s around.
One look at the face of the golden-haired beauty has Duncan Wallace enchanted. He’s pulled in by her grace, beauty, and sweet humor. It’s not the best time in his life to meet a woman, but fate always has a way of surprising him.
One look at the face of the golden-haired beauty has Duncan Wallace enchanted. He’s pulled in by her grace, beauty, and sweet humor. It’s not the best time in his life to meet a woman, but fate always has a way of surprising him.
*Bonus short stories included*
Goodreads
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He enjoyed the way her eyes lit up every time he complimented her hair. Otherwise, he probably would’ve kept his mouth shut. Focusing his attention on a woman did not fit into his life.
Would there ever be a good time?
Probably not. She had been delightful from the moment she rushed into the elevator. He couldn’t help himself.
From her sweet blonde hair that shined like gold, to her tentative smiles that made his heart beat faster, to her lovely teasing that surprised him. Not much could surprise him. But that certainly did. He had loved every minute he spent with her.
Then the doors rustled open, breaking the spell holding them mere inches apart. She ran. No amount of him shouting her name had gotten her to stop. He took that as a sign. It wasn’t meant to be.
He pushed the charming Delilah from his mind and made his way to the parking garage. Within no time, he made it to his daughter’s school.
“Hey, pumpkin. How was school?” he asked his eight-year-old little girl that was his everything. He couldn’t imagine his life without her by his side.
“It was school, Dad. Not much to say.”
He wrapped an arm around her shoulder, squeezing her with tenderness. “Did something happen? What’s with the sad attitude?”
“I just hate leaving early. The kids always look at me funny when I walk out.”
“I know, pumpkin, I know. I’ve tried to get the appointments later in the day. I promise I do try. I know it hasn’t been easy, but you’re getting better. You need to get better. I can’t lose my little girl.”
“I know, Daddy.” She looked at her watch. “You were actually three minutes late.”
He laughed as he pulled back into traffic. Leave it to his little girl to notice the time. He had no idea where she got her punctuality from. Her mother, when she had been around, was never on time for anything. It wasn’t a surprise when she left that day four years ago and never came back. She had never wanted to be a mother in the first place. While it hurt his daughter to know her mother didn’t want her, he figured she was better off. She had been a terrible mother.
He certainly made mistakes. He couldn’t say he was the best father in the world, but he tried. That was the difference. She never tried. Not once. Thinking of her never conquered up any sad feelings, only regret. Regret that his daughter would never know a mother’s love.
While he tried his hardest to be punctual, he had slip-ups as well. Work was tedious and consuming. Traffic could be horrendous. Or simply, he lost track of time. And his little munchkin always let him know.
“The elevator was slow today.” He smiled, thinking about Delilah. The elevator hadn’t been slow enough, in his opinion. And he had wasted a few minutes running through the lobby trying to find her. He had wanted to ask her for her number. But Ellie, his daughter, didn’t need to know all of that.
(Copyright © Amanda Siegrist 2017)
I love anything that has to do with romance. As long as there’s a happy ending, I’m a happy camper. I love baseball (Go Twins!) and creating awesome crafts. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, working in that field for several years before I became a stay-at-home mom. When I’m not hanging out with my wonderful family, I’m writing a sweet contemporary romance or a romantic suspense that keeps you guessing until the end. I have a few more amazing stories in the works. If you would like to connect with me or see important news, head to my website at http://www.amandasiegrist.com. Or you can also check out my Facebook Page or follow me on Twitter (@amanda_siegrist). Thanks for reading!
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