Laughing Eyes: Bittersweet Familia (3)
Page 22
A painful reference to my past.
A reason to remind me of indiscretions that were not my own.
They all say it so freely, smirking as they do so. Every one of these men know I am destroyed a little more each time. In the beginning, they would laugh as the tears rolled down my cheeks, finding humor in my weakness.
For years, I would go to bed dreaming it was me they had killed. Now, I plot my retaliation. Waiting for the perfect moment to avenge my sister and the life they stole from me.
In this new volatile world I live in, I have no middle or last name.
I am only known as Sofia.
Acknowledgements
This was a particularly difficult story to write. Not due to complexity, but because I knew I was tearing two beautiful characters apart. I wanted so much for them to have a happy ever after, yet they just pulled me in opposite directions. When I was having doubts and questioning myself, I had my Bitters & Sweets to thank for encouraging me throughout this journey. I group of beautiful women who I just adore.
April Doughty-Nixon. You are my sister from another mister and momma but I love you like we’re blood. Thank you for being such an angel and I am so EXCITED to actually meet you soon!
Andrea King. Where would I be without you? Thank you for your patience. I am sure there were many times you felt like stabbing my eye balls out but you stuck by me with a smile and created my beautiful cover. Love you long time!
John Daniel. For making my Nicolas Blanco come to life in the most frightening way possible. Thanks for lending your face to play possibly one of the darkest characters I will ever write.
To my gorgeous friend, Al Marie. Words cannot express how much I love you. Thank you for taking the time to help me out. I cannot express just how HUGE my gratitude is.
The beautiful Jodie O’Brien. This woman is AMAZING. One of the kindest people I have ever met and so self-less. Thanks for being a true friend and I love you to the moon and back.
A big shout out to Rose & Atalia from FMR Book Grind. What a pleasure it has been working with you. Thanks for your professionalism and all the help you have given for this release.
And THANK YOU to ALL the bloggers and ARC readers who have participated in my release day. Without you wonderful people, an author’s life would be that much harder.