by Harloe Rae
Copyright © 2018 by Harloe Rae, LLC
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior writen permission of the copyright owner and the publisher listed above, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
This is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or purely coincidental.
Cover Design:
Talia’s Book Covers
Cover Photographer:
Eric David Battershell
Cover Model:
Ryan Stacks Harmon
Interior Design & Formatting:
Type A Formatting
This book is dedicated to Jacquelyn, Megan, and Shauna.
I couldn’t manage without these Hotties.
“Another Night in the Life of a Small Town”—Tim Culpepper
“Parallel Line”—Keith Urban
“Noise”—Brandon Scott
“Smoke a Little Smoke”—Eric Church
“Drunk Girl”—Chris Janson
“Filthy”—Justin Timberlake
“Timber”—Pitbull and Kesha
“Never Be the Same”—Camila Cabello
“Tequila”—Dan + Shay
“Bad Liar”—Selena Gomez
“Black Mirror”—Sophie Simmons
“Body Say”—Demi Lovato
“Show Me”—Alina Baraz
“Stronger Together”—Matt Lashoff
Contents
GENT
DEDICATION
PLAYLIST
About GENT
PROLOGUE
CHAPTER ONE
CHAPTER TWO
CHAPTER THREE
CHAPTER FOUR
CHAPTER FIVE
CHAPTER SIX
CHAPTER SEVEN
CHAPTER EIGHT
CHAPTER NINE
CHAPTER TEN
CHAPTER ELEVEN
CHAPTER TWELVE
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
CHAPTER NINETEEN
CHAPTER TWENTY
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX
CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
EPILOGUE
EXTRA EPILOGUE
SNEAK PEEK—MISS BY HARLOE RAE
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Enjoy an Excerpt of Forget You Not
Enjoy an Excerpt of Watch Me Follow
Raven Elliot blasts into town like a wrecking ball—striking and devastating.
With a few simple words, my reliable routine crumbles to dust.
“Is this seat taken?”
I could close my eyes and let her voice wrap around me like a lover’s caress.
But this isn’t that type of story.
And I’m sure as hell not that kind of man.
She hovers in my space, batting her lashes and smiling shyly.
The glimmer in her sapphire eyes is a promise of peace.
But I’m not falling for it.
And Raven doesn't take the hint.
What starts as a battle of wills, explodes into a turf war.
She stands directly in my path everywhere I turn.
No matter how hard I shove, she won’t budge.
Raven seems dead set on driving me insane.
But I was here first.
And I’m not going down easy.
After all, no one ever taught how me to treat a lady.
MOVE
Raven
AM I CRAZY?
As I cross the Stockton county line, my heart leaps into my throat. I’m not typically nervous, but this is big. Huge, really. Life changing and all that. Moving clear across the state seems extreme, right? It totally is, but this is happening. Tonight. I’ve never visited this city before, but in a few hours, it will be my home. Talk about taking a chance.
I’m worrying myself into an ulcer, and for no reason. Delilah wouldn’t steer me wrong, or offer false promises, yet doubt continues to plague me.
What if everyone hates me? Or Delilah decides I suck at baking? What if I make a fool of myself?
This is the type of impulsive decision I was subjected to growing up. My mother made one hasty choice after another, dragging me along for the bumpy ride. The thought stops me cold.
Oh, Lord. Am I acting like her?
The idea makes me sick to my stomach, and I reject it immediately. She’d never live in a small town, unless there was a damn good reason. Like meeting her next Mr. Right Now. I shudder thinking of her current flavor of the month. They’re overseas living in a gorgeous villa off the Mediterranean. He’s twice her age with a bank account busting at the seams. My mother swears up and down his money isn’t the reason she loves him. Too bad I don’t believe her.
Restless energy courses through my veins as I fiddle with the radio. I wish that audiobook had been a bit longer. It was a stellar distraction from the chaos buzzing through me. Getting lost in a sappy romance gives everything a rosy hue. Once they all lived happily ever after, the panic of my situation filtered in. Living in the pages of a love story would be far easier.
My eyes quickly land on the gift from Delilah. The bright pink apron lays spread across the front seat, like a constant presence reminding me of what’s ahead. Master Baker is embroidered across the front. It makes me laugh each time, and this moment isn’t different. As my giggle dies off, the view from my windshield looks brighter than ever.
I change the station and a slow country tune fills the speakers, calming my racing pulse. This sounds like sweet haven, which is exactly what I need to hear. I’m digging in and grabbing the happy place buried in my soul.
This is my choice. I’m controlling my future. Confidence replaces the doubt as my foot presses harder on the accelerator. I’ll finally be planting roots. Everything will go perfectly. Yeah, I’ve got to stop overthinking this because the time is now. My hands twist on the steering wheel, and I exhale slowly. I’ve been waiting for this my entire life. I’m ready.
My headlights flash across a sign welcoming me to Garden Grove, and giddy nerves attack my gut.
Their slogan feels like arms wrapping me in a warm hug. I smile and repeat the words silently.
Where everyone belongs.
That sounds just right, like Goldilocks. Ready or not Garden Grove, here I come.
MA’AM
Trey
“DID YOU HEAR what I said?”
At her question, my gaze shifts to connect with the woman’s stare. She’s an unfamiliar face, probably lured into town by the specialty shops off Main Street. Sitting closer than socially acceptable, she’s almost stuck on me. The bar is crowded tonight, though. I let the proximity slide, but her attempt at conversation is pushing it too far.
I came to Dagos for a few beers after work, not to engage in chit-chat. Usually I won’t hesitate sampling fresh meat, gladly gobble up what’s being offered, but not today. Try as she might, this chick is striking out with me. I have zero intentions of giving her the quick fuck she’s been practically begging for since sitting down.
I clear my throat. “Ma’am, I’m not interested.”
The dial on her annoying meter cranks up a few notches. I’m not stupid enough to fall into her trap, but still bite my tongue to keep the insults from barreling out.
I quickly scan her pinched face, covered with powdery shit likely meant to hide her age. I was trying to be polite by using a respectful term, but she’s clearly not the type. I rub my forehead while blowing out a breath, frustration already building like a storm cloud.
“I mean no offense,” I grind out between clenched teeth, “but I’m spending the evening solo. Cheers.” I raise my bottle in a lame-ass salute.
The yappy broad huffs and rolls her eyes. It seems she might spit more crap my way, but then her attention darts to a man across the room. She eagerly slips off the stool, nearly spilling her drink with the jerky movements. She glances back at me, shooting daggers from her eyes.
“Asshole,” she shoots over her shoulder before sauntering off.
Good fucking riddance.
I lift the nearly empty beer to my lips, but a burst of laughter interrupts me.
“Wow. You sure know how to pick ‘em. How are you still single with suave moves like that?”
“Not you too,” I mutter without turning around, recognizing the raspy voice immediately. “Was the entire female race set on driving me fucking crazy?” My chin tilts skyward as I silently ask for patience . . . or a fucking break. Neither will come for me.
“Would it kill you to be nice?” Addison rests her arms against the bar next to me.
I puff air through my clenched teeth. “Most likely. And I was nice. I called her ma’am.”
“You know girls hate that,” she shoots back. “It’s a dig more than anything and makes us feel old. Might as well call her a raging bitch or wrinkled hag.”
“Those names seem more appropriate. Thanks,” I chuckle but there’s no humor behind it.
“Don’t start, Trey. You know I’m right.”
“I’m not saying shit. Just thinking I might use those instead.”
“You’re impossible.”
“That’s the point.”
“What-ev-er,” Addison singsongs while glancing around. “Where’s Jack?”
“Still at the shop.”
“Burning the midnight oil?”
“In more ways than one. Had a rough day.”
She tilts her head and gives me a once-over. “You too?”
“Don’t I always?”
“Meh, I suppose. You’re always a grump so it’s tough to tell the difference.”
“And here I thought we were exchanging pleasantries.”
“You and pleasant will never go together.” Addison hitches a thumb over her shoulder. “Running off that lovely lady is a prime example.”
I grunt and shake my head. “She deserved it for being so desperate.”
She snorts and elbows me. “Why are you such a dick? All that handsome is going to such shameful waste. You need to find someone to treat right.”
Peering at Addison, all toned limbs and tan skin, I consider a quick fuck after all. I grip the cool bottle, picturing her soft flesh giving in to me.
“Why haven’t we ever—”
“No way. I know that look,” she says. “I see you give women those bedroom eyes every Friday night only to watch them turn cold the following morning. I haven’t fallen for them yet and I don’t plan to start.”
Just like that, our breezy banter slams to a halt. Tension strains my shoulders after being cut off. Again. What is it with chicks bulldozing me tonight?
Having Addison call me out does nothing to help my mood, but it’s no surprise she sees straight through me. Although I’ve known her since kindergarten, it still pisses me off. Moments like this make living in a small-town suffocating. There’s nothing and no one new around here. I know useless shit about everyone from Garden Grove, whether I want to or not.
I roll my neck and restore my typical look of indifference. “I never get any complaints. Your loss, Addy.”
Addison shakes her head. “So fucking cocky. I ain’t giving you any ass, but how ‘bout another?” She asks and gestures to my beer.
I grumble, “That’d be great,” without looking back at her.
Addison just stands there so I give in and glance over. Her arms are crossed as she raises a slim brow my way, seemingly waiting for . . .
“Please,” I grit. The irritation from earlier whooshes in my ears and I’m ready to get gone.
Right after this drink.
She snickers and says, “That’s better. We’ll make a gentleman of you soon.”
“Don’t hold your breath, ma’am.”
Addison gasps and flames rise in her hazel eyes.
Before she digs into me, I add, “Chill out. I’m just fucking with you. But seriously, get back to work. I’m thirsty.”
“You really are an asshole,” she says while patting my cheek with more force than necessary. I’m sure she’d love to slap the shit out of me but won’t risk getting in trouble for it. She shakes her head and turns away, strutting off to serve other waiting customers.
My eyes lock on her swaying hips, losing myself in the rhythm of her movement for a moment. No harm in looking, right?
Sweet-smelling perfume wafts in as the abandoned stool next to me shifts slightly.
“Is this seat taken?”
The notes are soft but rise above the booming noise in the space. The feminine lilt of her voice snakes around before I feel a twisting in my gut. I quickly shove that fluffy shit away. My jaw ticks while I ignore her heavenly scent closing in around me.
“Don’t even bother,” I growl loud enough for her to hear.
“Excuse me?”
Disbelief colors her voice and I can’t help swiveling toward her.
Holy shit.
Bottomless blue eyes greet me, sparkling with fierce emotion. The glittering sapphires are hypnotizing, the type of pull any man would fall victim to.
Except me.
I manage to break out of my trance and scan the rest of her features. Golden waves frame her face, the long locks shimmering in the bright lights. Her skin is clear of makeup, giving her a natural glow that I rarely see on the women around here. That caked-on crap always looks like a shield, hiding secrets and truths, like the ballsy bimbo from earlier. Nothing like this stunner in front of me. She’s on a whole new level.
She’s open to me, hiding nothing at all, which I’m realizing is a huge fucking turn-on. My hips shift slightly to alleviate the sudden pressure rising in my jeans, but it’s pointless. My dick is definitely taking notice of all she has to offer.
Maybe I’m not meant to spend the night alone. This newbie is definitely worth changing plans for.
My gaze wanders lazily along her slender figure, outwardly showing minimal interest while my pulse pounds erratically. Why am I having such a strong reaction to her? With an innocent look and a few words, she’s screwing with my mojo like a voodoo witch.
What makes her so damn special?
She’s just another woman, looking for an easy lay, and I’m the biggest target. This stranger probably heard about me from locals like Addison and came over to try her luck. My body is betraying me by falling under her spell, but I see the threat like a neon sign. I’m not letting her sink those perfectly painted nails into me.
Her flawless face dips into my line of sight, and our eyes clash. I blink and take a clarifying breath as determination to get rid of her barrels through me.
“Listen, babe—”
She holds up her hand like a stop sign and for some reason, having her interrupt doesn’t bother me.
“Did you just babe me?” Her question is all sass.
“Sure did, sweetheart. Call ‘em like I see ‘em. Don’t pretend to be offended. We both know why you’re over here talking to me.”
Her face turns an adorable shade of pink. “First, stop with the
nicknames. Second, are you for real? What the hell is wrong with you?”
“I don’t see any issue. You’re the one disrupting my quiet evening.”
“What the . . . I mean, seriously? I want to sit down and this is the only available spot. You honestly think I came over here to hit on you?”
Her ridiculous question doesn’t deserve a response. My glare matches hers as I silently explain my opinion on the matter. My expression must tell her everything she needs to know.
“Wow, you’re an asshole.”
“You’re the third woman to call me that tonight. Be careful, I might get a complex.”
“Aw, poor baby. I’d hate to dent your fragile ego,” she snips with a curl in her lip.
“There’s nothing fragile about me. Don’t worry. I’m hard and solid. Wanna feel?” I ask and pat my abs.
She nods to my hands. “No, thanks. I’d hate for you to rub off on me.”
“Does the grease under my nails bother you? Princess is afraid of getting a little dirty?”
“Do you get a rise out of being mean?”
I lean against the bar and cross my arms. “I don’t get many complaints. You’re not from around here, so I’ll fill you in—the ladies love me.”
“Pretty sure I saw Barbie McCleveage storm off after chatting with you. She didn’t look too satisfied.”
“Now who’s using nicknames? Jealous much?”
“Hardly,” she huffs.
I smirk before checking out her rack, being extremely obvious about it. Pushing her buttons takes away the tension from earlier, replacing it with a surprising ease. Fighting with her is the most nonsexual fun I’ve had with a woman in a long time. Wonder how she’d react if I called her ma’am.
“All right, all right. You’ve broken me down. I was set on not having any company tonight, but for you, I’ll make an exception. If you insist on standing here, blabbing away, I’ve got far better uses for that luscious mouth. My place isn’t too far away,” I suggest while waggling my brows. My behavior is over the top, but what can I say? She’s bringing out the best in me.
Her lips part in shock. This stranger just stares at me, and I’m sure she’s about to turn away . . . or slap me. Either way, mission accomplished.