“Come on. A little bit cool.”
I felt low chuckle slip, and I couldn’t resist the smile that appeared. What was it that drew him to me?
“You’re early, I thought you were at school?”
“Police academy.” He corrects. “Law enforcement training. You know, employment isn’t accompanied with a badge, uniform and key to a new cruiser.
“A child of five would know this.” I abruptly reply. Will’s seeing the world threw a kaleidoscope, I feared, will end badly. “Go on, I know you’re dying to tell me.”
The man is handsome, impressively striking to the point of distraction. The problem is, he knows it. His strong profile, and damn his flirtatious grin, could bring a girl to her knees. Hell, that sounded bad, but true. But his good sense of humor and Peter Pan qualities balances things out. That is when his mouth isn’t getting in the way.
“Today we were introduced to a threat very slowly. The instructors start simulating with just separating people who are arguing. Then they increased the level of threat, to an argument but there is a knife on the table, to see if we notice. And how we deal with it.”
“You mean to tell me, they let you have a knife?”
“Hilarious Grace, I’m starving, let’s stop and eat.”
“We can grab something, and take it home.
“Where’s the fun in that?
“Fine, but not the Ethiopian place again, I’m still having nightmares.”
“Your pick.”
Still, Will is all man, and in my world, that wasn’t always a good thing. My scars run deep, and if I had to label myself, damaged goods comes to mind. Although I might start out less negative, with just complicated.
I’ll say this for Will. He pulls a playful side from me, one in which I’ve never seen.
I kiss Elijah as a fit of guilt races up my spine. I didn’t deserve laughter when he was living in darkness. “Grace, ready?” I don’t answer. My palm cups Elijah’s cheek, and that aged tiny scar right above his brow, I’d never noticed. I kiss that too and whisper in his ear.
“You’re scaring me Elijah, wake up.”
Good news, Andrew Quentin, Attorney General has been reassigned, after three women came forward. I threw my name in the hat and offered my cooperation when the time came. But for now, he’s pushing papers in some basement up north.
Whisky cocks his head then drops to my feet. I’ve become her favorite, staying over most nights. That ring, as it catches the light is a constant reminder of the happily ever after we both look forward to. Our story isn’t over, it’s just begun.
If you got caught up in Steel and Nichole’s story look for the next installment.
Their story continues in conjunction with Grace’s concluding story.
“Surviving Grace”
Coming soon.
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It’s the greatest thank you an Author can receive.
Lisa Way Stinson:
Beta-Reader extraordinaire’ I can only convey my thanks and appreciation by expressing the wonderful job you did within these pages. The extra time and effort you so gracefully put into the project were certainly worthwhile.
It was a joy for me to work with such a dedicated talented reader whose insight and professionalism has helped me succeed to where I am today. Your attention to detail and relentless determination to release quality work under deadlines and translate that product into a superior version of itself. I was delighted you took on the task, it was apparent that you put thought and heart into your work.
Thank you for being such a great friend.
Ann Purnell Medrano
I wanted to personally let you know how gratifying it was to receive such a level of quality, and attention within your work. Your words of support and inspiration were visibly heartening to me. It’s rare to find such kind friend who willingly offers such dedication and hard work. I’m especially pleased with your help and positive attitude; your perspective and encouragement meant a great deal to me. You’ve played a central role in my endeavors and I hope we will work together again soon.
Those who learn from others experience, are usually a step ahead of the rest.
I really think the world of you!
Midwestern born, Virginia Wine is a longtime lover of romance and well told stories. It was only natural to turn that passion into writing a love story of her own.
Married to a real-life Iron Man with legendary stamina, they have two children who keep them on their toes.
Always up for a challenge, Virginia loves bike riding, kayaking, tennis, and boating. She's a self-proclaimed zip-line junkie and will try any adventure that gets her out of the writing cave and into an adrenaline high.
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Hard as Steel: Book four ( Surviving Series ) Page 21