Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby – Read Books Online Free Ebooks good best novels to read http://www.books2020.com Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:21:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 http://www.books2020.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/favicon.png Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby – Read Books Online Free Ebooks good best novels to read http://www.books2020.com 32 32 The Substitute (Single in Seattle #5.5) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-substitute-single-in-seattle-5-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:21:42 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-substitute-single-in-seattle-5-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Alpha Male, Contemporary, Erotic, Novella Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 27
Estimated words: 25871 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 129(@200wpm)___ 103(@250wpm)___ 86(@300wpm)
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Derek Langley can’t keep an assistant to save his life. He’s grumpy, demanding, and sometimes mean, which mirrors his reputation in court. Derek doesn’t have time to coddle an employee, so when the temp agency informs him their next placement will be the last, he knows he’s doomed.

Maya Sterling is excited to move to Seattle. She wants to be closer to her siblings and her new friends, and a position with a temp agency fits the bill for her new life in the city. She doesn’t plan on walking in and finding a sexy British grouch for a boss, but his gruff nature doesn’t really bother her. In fact, she’s attracted to his rough-around-the-edges nature.

They quickly realize the attraction is mutual and steam up the office. But Maya’s position with Derek is temporary, and she knows she must maintain a professional distance to preserve her sanity.

Will they be able to resist each other? Or does fate have other plans?

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

One Thousand and One Dark Nights

Once upon a time, in the future…

I was a student fascinated with stories and learning.

I studied philosophy, poetry, history, the occult, and

the art and science of love and magic. I had a vast

library at my father’s home and collected thousands

of volumes of fantastic tales.

I learned all about ancient races and bygone

times. About myths and legends and dreams of all

people through the millennium. And the more I read

the stronger my imagination grew until I discovered

that I was able to travel into the stories... to actually

become part of them.

I wish I could say that I listened to my teacher

and respected my gift, as I ought to have. If I had, I

would not be telling you this tale now.

But I was foolhardy and confused, showing off

with bravery.

One afternoon, curious about the myth of the

Arabian Nights, I traveled back to ancient Persia to

see for myself if it was true that every day Shahryar

(Persian: شهريار, “king”) married a new virgin, and then

sent yesterday's wife to be beheaded. It was written

and I had read that by the time he met Scheherazade,

the vizier's daughter, he’d killed one thousand

women.

Something went wrong with my efforts. I arrived

in the midst of the story and somehow exchanged

places with Scheherazade – a phenomena that had

never occurred before and that still to this day, I

cannot explain.

Now I am trapped in that ancient past. I have

taken on Scheherazade’s life and the only way I can

protect myself and stay alive is to do what she did to

protect herself and stay alive.

Every night the King calls for me and listens as I spin tales.

And when the evening ends and dawn breaks, I stop at a

point that leaves him breathless and yearning for more.

And so the King spares my life for one more day, so that

he might hear the rest of my dark tale.

As soon as I finish a story... I begin a new

one... like the one that you, dear reader, have before

you now.

Prologue

Maya

“It’s so good to have you home,” Mom says with a smile as we sit on the back deck of my childhood home overlooking Lake Coeur d’Alene. It’s a beautiful spring day, with a big blue sky and calm waters. I might have to take my paddleboard out this afternoon to enjoy it. “I’m so proud of you for traveling and seeing so many amazing things, but a mother wants her children close whenever possible.”

“I’m happy to be home,” I admit and lean over to rest my head on Mom’s shoulder, enjoying being here with her. “You’ve been feeling okay?”

My mom has early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, but she’s doing much better than she was even a year ago. There was a time when I had to live here with my parents to make sure she didn’t hurt herself.

Now, with the help of medications, she’s been able to go back to a somewhat normal life.

At least, that’s what she and Dad have told me.

“Like I said every time you called from Europe, I’m just fine, honey.” She kisses my brow, and I raise my head to reach for my mug.

“It’s easy to say that to me when I’m six thousand miles away.” I sip my coffee and watch Mom as she frowns into her cup. “You can be honest with me.”

“I really am doing much better than before we switched medications, Maya. Of course, there are a few days every now and then when I’m reminded that I’m dealing with a monster of a disease. But I have no complaints.” She smiles reassuringly. “Now, tell me everything about Europe. I want to know how you spent each minute. It sounded like you were having such a wonderful experience.”

“I did.” I sigh in contentment and look out over the water. I’d just spent the better part of six months traveling around Europe. It was the adventure of a lifetime. “I think Ireland was my favorite, but Norway was a close second.”


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The Stand-In (Single in Seattle #5) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-stand-in-single-in-seattle-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Sat, 25 Nov 2023 22:12:48 +0000 https://www.booksnovels.com/the-stand-in-single-in-seattle-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Alpha Male, Billionaire, Contemporary, Sports Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 85
Estimated words: 82951 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 415(@200wpm)___ 332(@250wpm)___ 277(@300wpm)
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From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby comes The Stand-In, the newest novel in her beloved Single in Seattle series, featuring Drew Montgomery!

I don’t like my new boss. Not at all.

London Ambrose is a spoiled billionaire’s daughter. And now she’s the new co-owner of the Seattle football team, but that doesn’t mean that she knows diddly squat about football.

There’s nothing I hate more than having someone micromanaging me, shadowing my every move, and giving me their two cents on Every. Little. Thing. as I coach MY defensive line.

I don’t care about new team jerseys and branding or answering her million and one questions about how I do my job. But, I can’t help but come to her defense when an old flame shows up and starts harassing her. I’m a Montgomery. We don’t let anyone mess with women.

Now, I’m suddenly in a fake relationship, pretending to date the gorgeous billionaire and learning so many surprising things about this captivating woman that I just can’t seem to stay away from her.

When the lines between our fake relationship and real relationship blur, and my initial distaste for her turns into desire, I find myself coaching the most important game of my life - do I let my guard down or do I let London Ambrose walk away forever?

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

Prologue

Drew

Five Years Ago

* * *

“How many fingers am I holding up?”

“Two.”

The doctor narrows his eyes on me. “But how many can you actually see?”

I want to lie and tell him that I only see two fingers. That I’m not dizzy as fuck, nauseous, and seeing double of every damn thing.

But I don’t lie because my mom would kill me.

“I see four.”

He purses his lips as he types into his computer. It’s been a week since I took a hit on the field during the fourth quarter when we were up by three points.

Thanks to my pass before the hit, we won by nine.

But I got hit hard enough to give me one hell of a concussion. It isn’t my first, but I hope like hell that it’s my last, though football is a tough sport, and quarterbacks get hit hard.

My uncle Will taught me that from an early age when I realized that I didn’t want to follow in my dad’s footsteps by joining the Navy. Instead, I wanted to play professional football.

“What’s the prognosis, doc?” Dad asks. He’s sitting in a chair in the corner of the small exam room. I had to have him drive me to the appointment since I can’t see well enough to drive myself.

“Brain injuries are always a mystery,” the doctor replies as he closes the laptop and turns to address the two of us. “Unfortunately, it’s going to take time for your brain to heal, Drew.”

“I have a game tomorrow night.”

“No.” The doc shakes his head slowly as he looks me square in the eye, his own eyes hard and serious. “You don’t.”

“Don’t tell me that I’m out the rest of the season.”

Dad shifts in the chair, and I scowl at the two older men.

“Come on, it’s just a concussion.”

“This one isn’t minor,” the doc replies. “It’s your third this year, Drew, and it’s bad. What did you have for breakfast the morning of the game?”

I sigh in frustration. I can’t remember. That entire day is completely gone from my memory, and it frustrates the hell out of me.

“At least I can play for my senior year next fall.”

The room is quiet again until the doctor clears his throat. “Drew, it’s time to walk away from football.”

“Fuck that.”

“Drew—” Dad begins, but I shake my head and then immediately regret the movement when the room spins and my stomach revolts.

“Football is my life. I’m damn good at it, and I’ll be going pro. There are already scouts watching me. You can’t tell me that I’m done. That’s not possible.”

“Another concussion could lead to neurological issues, permanent memory loss, and personality changes. You’ll be at higher risk of early-onset Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.” Doc sighs grimly. “I know that football is important to you, Drew, and that you’re a damn good player. But your life is worth more. I’m sorry to deliver this news, but your days on the field are over. I’ll want you back here in a month for another CT so I can see how your brain is recovering.”

He shakes our hands, and then he’s gone, and before I know it, I’m sitting in the passenger seat of my dad’s truck, headed toward my childhood home in the suburbs of Seattle.

“I’ll get another opinion,” I mutter as I close my eyes and will the dizziness away. Christ, being dizzy is the worst.

“That was the second opinion,” Dad reminds me gently. “Drew, switching career tracks when you’re twenty-one isn’t the end of the world.”

“What am I going to do?” I demand. “You and I both know that I was never expected to perform well academically. I’m a jock, the star of the team, and I’m expected to win games. No one gives a shit about my grades. I’ll have a degree in business, but I couldn’t even tell you how to fill out a spreadsheet. It’s a joke.”

“You can coach.”

I scoff at that and turn my face to the window so he doesn’t see the tears in my eyes.

“I can’t coach quarterbacks. Not when I want to be doing what they are. When I know that I’m better than they are.”

“Well, your ego is healthy.” Dad reaches out and pats my leg. “You get that from me. Look, sometimes the right choice isn’t the one we think we want to make. Leaving the SEALs fucking sucked for me. I didn’t want to do it. I didn’t know anything else, and I liked my job. Sure, it was hard, but I was good at it.”

“Then why did you?”

I look over in time to see him swallow hard.

“You never told me why you left the SEALs.”

“Injuries.” He shrugs. “And I was getting older. I’d seen a lot of shit, and it messed me up in the head some. Coming home was the right thing, and then I met your mom and your sisters, and I knew that it was the way my life was supposed to go.”


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The Setup (Single in Seattle #4) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-setup-single-in-seattle-4-read-online-kristen-proread-online Sun, 30 Jul 2023 16:00:58 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-setup-single-in-seattle-4-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Contemporary Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 73
Estimated words: 72828 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 364(@200wpm)___ 291(@250wpm)___ 243(@300wpm)
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I’m a sucker for pretty things. Give me a roaring engine in a souped-up vintage muscle car with cherry red paint and brand-new leather interior, and that’s about as pretty as anything I could ask for. I’m a simple man, who doesn’t need or want the kind of wild celebrity that my father has. I restore one-of-a-kind vehicles and sell them to the highest bidder. Usually, that bidder just also happens to be a celebrity.

But no matter how often my cars steal the spotlight, staying out of it is my number one priority.

Which is why Sydney Sterling is absolutely out of the question.

She’s a country music superstar. She’s in the spotlight. People can’t get enough of her.

It doesn’t matter that our one night together was hotter than a full throttle muscle car, or that she’s the most incredible woman I’ve ever met.

I. Need. To. Stay. Away.

And I was doing a great job of just that until our friends set us up on a blind date, and now here I am, sitting across from the only woman who made me want more. How am I going to handle the fact that the rest of the world wants her almost as much as I do?

And do I even have a choice in the matter?

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

Playlist

All songs are written and produced by Josiah and Rachel Holien, especially for this book. The songs can be found on Spotify.

1. Life in the Slow Lane

2. Moon Shine

3. Good Girls Gone Bad

4. Little Miss

Prologue

Keaton

“I hate being so far away from you.” I’m lying flat on my back, staring at the ceiling of my bedroom, my phone pressed to my ear, trying to hear every little detail on the other end of the line. I’ve been dating Sabrina Tuttle, only the hottest actress in Hollywood, long distance for three months.

Three agonizing months.

“I know, babe,” comes the throaty response from her. She has a voice that can make me hard in three-point-seven seconds. “But you’re going to come down and see me next month, right?”

“That’s the plan. My dad has some business down there, and I’m going to come with him.”

Of course, I haven’t told him that yet, but it shouldn’t be a problem. He let me go down with him three months ago when I met Sabrina. She’s been an actress since she was a kid, and I’d had a crush on her for a couple of years. I’ve seen all of her movies. So, when I met her at a lunch deal my dad took me to, I was a little tongue-tied at first.

But she was flirty and funny, and we hit it off. The more I talk with her, the more I love her. Not only is she hot, but she’s also smart.

“God, why does my dad have to be so set on the whole living in Seattle thing?”

“I hear he doesn’t like the limelight very much,” she says.

“He hates it. Still, though, he goes to LA for work all the damn time. We might as well live there. Then I could see you whenever I want. Hey, speaking of seeing you, let me just video call you.”

“Oh, that’s okay,” she says in a hurry. “I don’t look great right now.”

“You always look great,” I insist.

“That’s not true.” I can hear the smile in her voice, and I want to see her so badly I can taste it. I want to touch her. I’ve only kissed her, but I’m hoping that changes next month because I’m ready to be with her in every way possible.

“Really, let’s just talk. I love your voice. We can video chat tomorrow.”

“Yeah, okay. I guess that’s fine. What are you doing tomorrow?”

“I have to be on set early, and I’ll be working all day again. This one is a busy shoot because they’re trying to get it done quickly. The network wants to air it sooner rather than later.”

“I’m so proud of you,” I tell her, the words rushing out of my mouth. “You’re just badass, Sabrina.”

“Thanks. That means a lot, Keaton. Well, I’d better go. I’m exhausted, and I have that early start tomorrow.”

“Right, you need to rest. Sleep well, babe.”

“You, too. Bye.” She hangs up, and I let the phone fall to the bed beside me. Why can’t we live in LA? Sure, we’d all have to change schools, but that’s not really a big deal. I’ll have to talk to my dad about it later.

Because I want to be with Sabrina, no matter what.

“Dude.” My best friend, Mason, wraps his arm around my neck as we walk down the hallway at school, but he’s not grinning. He looks grim as fuck.

“What?”

“I need to show you something, and it’s going to really piss you off.”

I scowl and look around to see that a few kids are watching us with interest.

“Let’s go out to my car, then. Too many eyes here.”

He nods, and we walk out the double doors that lead to freedom. The school day is over, and it’s Friday, so that means I don’t have to be back here for two fucking days.

They’ll go by too damn fast. I fucking hate school. The quicker June rolls around and I’m out of here, the better.

Mason and I climb into the 1967 Camaro I’ve been restoring, and he pulls his phone out of his pocket and takes a deep breath.

“Dude, just show me what’s up. You’re being dramatic.”

“Yeah, well, it’s not good. Just remember, I’m only the messenger, okay?”

“Show me.”

He taps his phone, then passes it to me, and I scowl.

“Is that Sabrina?”

“Yeah.”

I narrow my eyes. It looks like she’s sitting on a couch with a guy, cuddled up to him. They’re kissing, and it makes my stomach roll.

“This must be old footage.”

“I don’t think so. Keep watching.”

They pull away long enough to sip some drinks. It could be beer, but I’m not sure. The person doing the recording starts to talk.

“So, Sabrina, are you still stringing that kid of Luke Williams along?”

She smirks. She clearly doesn’t know she’s being recorded.

“He’s a nice boy,” is all she says as she shrugs carelessly.

Nice. Not exactly the way I’d like to be described.


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The Surprise (Single in Seattle #4) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-surprise-single-in-seattle-4-read-online-kristen-proread-online Fri, 24 Mar 2023 15:26:26 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-surprise-single-in-seattle-4-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Angst, Contemporary, Erotic, Novella, Romance Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 23
Estimated words: 22744 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 114(@200wpm)___ 91(@250wpm)___ 76(@300wpm)
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THE SURPRISE is a second-chance, rock star romance from New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby, set in her Single in Seattle series!

Brax Adler is a complete liar. He’s also the love of my life. So, when he ends up in my emergency room after a car accident, I can’t resist helping him—but only long enough to get him healed. And then I’m out of there.
He’s broken my heart before.
I’m not giving him the chance to do it again.
But the more time I spend with him, the more it feels like coming home again. He swears he’s changed and that we can start fresh. And it feels so good to be in his arms.
I long to believe him.
But what if this is just another of his lies, and I end up with a broken heart anyway? Is it worth the risk? Or should I walk away?

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

CHAPTER 1

~JOSIE~

God, I’m just tired all the way to my bones. I love being a nurse. I’ve known since I was a little girl that I wanted to work with patients, but some days, it just kicks my ass.

Or, maybe I should say nights. Because I work the night shift in the Seattle General emergency room, and there is never a dull moment.

Especially on nights like last night—on a full moon and Halloween.

There were moments I couldn’t tell the difference between the fake blood and the real stuff—which can really be an obstacle to a girl’s job.

“Good times,” I say on a sigh as I start the car and lean my head back on the seat for just a minute, enjoying the quiet as the sound of the radio fills my car, and my mind empties of last night’s chaos.

She’ll change your life.

You’ll never let her go.

She’ll become your wife.

Josie, you’re the one, so…

I sit up straight and stare at the radio in shock.

“I know this song.”

Images immediately fill my head: Brax and me in the bathtub; him sitting across from me while playing his guitar and singing the song he wrote for me.

This song.

“This is the number-one-requested song this week here at KPTY Pop Radio, and I’m excited to welcome Brax Adler himself into the booth with me. Hey, man.”

“Thanks for having me.”

God, I’d recognize that voice anywhere. Smooth as silk and wrapped in sin. Brax has the voice of them all.

He could melt a girl’s panties off with one little whisper.

I should know. In the three years I was with him, I hardly ever had my panties on.

“I love that this song is getting nationwide attention, Brax. You must be thrilled.”

“It’s pretty dope, yeah, man. The guys and I are stoked.”

“You’ve been a mainstay in the Seattle music scene for a few years now, and I have to tell you, we’re all rooting for you.”

“I appreciate that, thank you.”

“Now, let’s talk about My Girl. Who wrote the song?”

“I wrote it a few years ago,” Brax answers.

“Is it about someone, or is it a work of fiction?”

My heart stutters as I hold my breath and chew on my bottom lip.

Me. He wrote it for me.

“Well, I wrote it for my girlfriend at the time,” Brax admits. “But, she dumped me.”

“What?” I demand, not even hearing the DJ’s response. “You little liar. You backstabbing piece of crap. That’s not how it happened, and you know it!”

I shut the radio off and pull out of my parking space, fuming.

After all the shit that man pulled, now he’s going to lie on the radio?

I shouldn’t expect anything less, really.

I’m still pissed when I pull into the garage of the little townhouse that I share with my twin sister. When I walk into the kitchen and hear the radio playing, Brax’s stupid, sexy voice flowing through the speakers, I narrow my eyes on Maddie.

“Why are you listening to this?”

“I wondered if you’d heard it,” she says with a cringe and taps the screen of her phone to shut it off. “Just ignore him. He’s an idiot.”

“But I didn’t dump him,” I insist as I open the fridge and rummage around for my dinner. It may be six in the morning, but it’s dinnertime for me. I pull out all the makings for a salad and baked chicken and start chopping veggies on the island.

“I’m not sure you should have a knife in your hand when you’re this pissed off,” Maddie says, backing away slowly while eyeing the knife.

“You know what really pisses me off?” I ask and point the sharp end of the blade at her. “He could have just said, ‘Oh, it just didn’t work out with her,’ or something just as vague. Instead, the prick lied.”

“Par for the course with that guy, right?”

“No. He wasn’t a liar when we were together. I don’t know why he’s starting a life of deception now. It’s weird.”

“Okay, I think you need to forget about Br—He Who Shall Not Be Named,” she amends at my cold stare, “and tell me about your night. Were you busy?”

“Full moon on Halloween? Yes, we were busy.”

“You see the best stuff,” Maddie says as she sits on the stool and watches me get my chicken ready to go into the oven. “My job isn’t that exciting.”

“You’re an accountant,” I remind her. “If you saw blood and guts at your job, that would be a red flag.”

My sister snorts and nods. “True. And, unlike you, blood makes me sick. Okay, I have to go into the office, but I should be home around noon since it’s Friday. I’m taking a half-day in case you want to hang out or something.”

“Hopefully, I’ll be passed out until about five. I work again tonight.”

“I’ll be quiet then,” she says with a wink. “Sleep well, and don’t let Brax get to you. He’s old news. Who cares if he’s suddenly famous? It doesn’t impact you at all.”


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The Score (Single in Seattle #3) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-score-single-in-seattle-3-read-online-kristen-proread-online Fri, 03 Feb 2023 20:31:51 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-score-single-in-seattle-3-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Alpha Male, Contemporary, Romance, Sports Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 69
Estimated words: 68882 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 344(@200wpm)___ 276(@250wpm)___ 230(@300wpm)
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I have millions of followers on social media, and it has absolutely nothing to do with my last name. It’s because I’m good at what I do. I work hard, and it has paid off. I’m not a trainer who only talks the talk, either. I walk the walk—or rather, I run the run. It was actually during one of those jogs through the park that I ran into him.

Of course, at the time, I didn’t realize it was the Isaiah “Ike” Harrison, Seattle’s hot new quarterback. All I knew was that I was suddenly pinned under some solid, sexy body, unable to breathe.

But even now, I keep running into Ike in the most unexpected places.
And he’s doing everything in his power to convince me that he’s not just a player—in any form of the word. It’s so much more than that.
But I’ve been there, done that. I have the mended broken heart to prove it and have no intention of doing it again.
Except the frustrating man is convincing, and my walls are quickly lowering—especially when I feel responsible for possibly upending his career.

Is letting him in a mistake? Or will it be the best thing I’ve ever done?

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

Prologue

Sophie

Fifteen Years Ago

* * *

She’s dead.

I just can’t believe it. I mean, I was at the funeral, and everyone was so sad, and Steph hasn’t been at school. She doesn’t return my calls or texts.

She’s gone.

But how can that be?

I pull out the notebook we passed back and forth during lunch from under my pillow and stare at it. In her handwriting on the cover, it says, Fitness Journal.

We were just trying to be thin.

To be accountable, we’d pass this notebook between us and write down what we ate, how much of it, and how long we waited until we threw it back up again.

I don’t blow chunks easily, so it was hard, but it had just started to work. I could see a difference in how my clothes fit.

And then she died.

For the first time since I found out about her death, I feel tears gather. Did we do something wrong?

My God, I don’t want to die.

And I don’t like keeping secrets from my parents.

My little brother, Liam, is already in bed, so I take the notebook downstairs where my parents are curled up on the couch, watching some sci-fi show.

“Mom?”

They turn and look at me, and when they see me crying, Dad immediately turns off the TV, and I move to sit in the chair across from them.

“What’s wrong?” Mom asks as she and Dad lean forward. “Are you hurt?”

“I don’t know.” I wipe away a tear. “She’s really dead, isn’t she?”

“Oh, baby.” Mama reaches for my hand. “Yes. She is.”

“How?”

“They’re still running the autopsy,” Dad says softly. “They aren’t entirely sure why she passed away in her sleep, honey.”

“I might know. I think it might be because of this.” I swallow hard and then pass them the notebook, and it all just comes flooding out of me. “I told her that I wanted to be skinnier. You always say that I’m perfect just the way I am, but I’m fat.”

“You are not fat,” Dad insists. “You’re thirteen, and your body is changing. A lot of kids go through a phase where they gain weight easily because of hormones, but trust me, it will even out.”

“Yeah, well, kids are mean, and they remind me every day that I’ve gotten fat.”

“Kids suck,” Mom mutters as she opens the notebook. When she scowls, I know it’s not good. “Wait, you were throwing up together?”

“What?” This comes from Dad.

Yep, not good.

“Steph said she’d been doing it for a long time, and it worked for her. She was skinny, and I thought she just knew about it. So, she told me what to do, and I did it. She said it was okay because we let our stomachs absorb some of the food, but then we threw the rest up.”

“No.” Dad shakes his head and drags his hand down his face. “No, Sophie.”

“You don’t understand,” I counter, but I keep my voice calm. It never works to raise my voice to my father. I learned that a long time ago. “Everyone in our family is beautiful. Do you know what it’s like to have all of these celebrities for aunts and uncles but I look like this?”

“Okay,” Mom says, holding up her hands. “First of all, I don’t know what you think you look like, Soph, but you’re a beautiful girl. Thirteen is the worst, but you won’t always be this age. You absolutely can’t solve anything by falling into an eating disorder.”

“That’s not—”

“Honey, this is an eating disorder. It’s not a diet plan—no thirteen-year-old should be on a diet plan, by the way. We feed you healthy meals. You have a balanced diet, and you need that food so you can continue to grow. I have to call Steph’s mom.”

“No.”

“Do you think she’ll get in trouble?” Dad demands, true anger firing in his voice. “She’s gone, honey. She can’t get into trouble now, and if this gives her parents some answers, well, then we need to tell them.”

“I’m sorry.” The tears come in earnest now. “I didn’t know that it was wrong.”

“Why did you keep it a secret?” Mom asks.

She hands me a tissue, and I wipe my eyes before shrugging a shoulder.

“That’s what I thought,” she continues. “If you thought you had to keep it a secret, then you knew that something about it wasn’t right. You won’t do this anymore.”

“No.” I shake my head. “I promise, I won’t. That won’t be me, Mama.”

“There will be therapy,” Dad says, leaving no room for argument. “And, if we need one, a nutritionist. I won’t lose you, Sophie. Not today or any other day.”

I jump up and rush to him, sit in his lap, and bury my nose in his neck the way I used to when I was younger.

“I’m so sorry,” I say again, soaking in the safety of my daddy’s arms. “I’m so, so sorry.”


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The Scramble (Single in Seattle #2.5) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-scramble-single-in-seattle-2-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:32:29 +0000 http://www.teennovels.net/the-scramble-single-in-seattle-2-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Contemporary, Romance Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 25
Estimated words: 24578 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 123(@200wpm)___ 98(@250wpm)___ 82(@300wpm)
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There are two things you need to know about me. 1: I’m never late. And 2: I hate Christmas. Yes, I’m a girl who hates the holidays.

My entire, enormous family is already enjoying their holiday vacation in Iceland, but thanks to my busy job and having to meet them there, I’m late. They could have chosen any holiday to fly across the world, but Christmas won, which sent me scrambling because the end of the year is my busiest time. It’s difficult to carve out moments to see the family at all.

So, now, I’m forty thousand feet in the air, trying to get to Iceland before Christmas morning, all while also attempting to get some work done. If only the hot guy next to me would leave me be.

Dylan says I should put the work away until after my holiday and relax a bit. And while his suggestion of spending some time together on the north Atlantic island seems preposterous, I can’t help but feel intrigued when he promises to show me how to enjoy the Yuletide season properly.

After all, I can’t possibly spend every minute with my family.

But how do I just shrug off my duty to my job and throw caution to the wind for a stranger...no matter how handsome he is? Because that’s something else about me: I never throw caution to the wind—even a beautiful, blustery Icelandic wind.

Then again, Mama always said, “Never say never…”

*************FULL BOOK START HERE*************

One Thousand and One Dark Nights

Once upon a time, in the future…

I was a student fascinated with stories and learning.

I studied philosophy, poetry, history, the occult, and

the art and science of love and magic. I had a vast

library at my father’s home and collected thousands

of volumes of fantastic tales.

I learned all about ancient races and bygone

times. About myths and legends and dreams of all

people through the millennium. And the more I read

the stronger my imagination grew until I discovered

that I was able to travel into the stories... to actually

become part of them.

I wish I could say that I listened to my teacher

and respected my gift, as I ought to have. If I had, I

would not be telling you this tale now.

But I was foolhardy and confused, showing off

with bravery.

One afternoon, curious about the myth of the

Arabian Nights, I traveled back to ancient Persia to

see for myself if it was true that every day Shahryar

(Persian: شهريار, “king”) married a new virgin, and then

sent yesterday's wife to be beheaded. It was written

and I had read that by the time he met Scheherazade,

the vizier's daughter, he’d killed one thousand

women.

Something went wrong with my efforts. I arrived

in the midst of the story and somehow exchanged

places with Scheherazade – a phenomena that had

never occurred before and that still to this day, I

cannot explain.

Now I am trapped in that ancient past. I have

taken on Scheherazade’s life and the only way I can

protect myself and stay alive is to do what she did to

protect herself and stay alive.

Every night the King calls for me and listens as I spin tales.

And when the evening ends and dawn breaks, I stop at a

point that leaves him breathless and yearning for more.

And so the King spares my life for one more day, so that

he might hear the rest of my dark tale.

As soon as I finish a story... I begin a new

one... like the one that you, dear reader, have before

you now.

Prologue

Maddie

Fifteen Years Ago…

“I don’t want to go to the football game.” I cross my arms over my chest and glare at my dad, who just sighs and gives me the look that says I’m going to lose this argument. “I have homework to do, and I’m pulling extra work for college prep. I don’t have time to go watch a stupid game.”

“It’s homecoming,” Dad says sternly. “And your sister is cheering in it. She’d like for us to be there.”

“She’s up for Homecoming Queen,” Mom adds. “We should all be there to support her.”

“I support her. I hope she gets it. She looks great in the dress she chose, and she’s totally awesome and popular, so she’ll win. Blah blah blah. I don’t have to be there for her to be crowned. I have so much to do here.”

They shake their heads at me, but they don’t understand. I like to study. I like to work hard, and I don’t have the time or inclination to play.

People at school make fun of me because I’m a nerd, but I don’t care. I like being a nerd.

And some people think it’s stupid that I love math. They think wanting to be an accountant is boring.

But it’s not boring. I have a family full of people with exciting careers. Hell, my uncle is a professional football player, and another is a rock star.

I don’t need flashy. I don’t need to perform.

I like boring.

“You’re going,” Dad says. “You can take one night off from homework. I can’t believe I have to force my kid not to do schoolwork.”

“You can’t make me,” I fire back, surprising us all. “You’re not my real dad anyway. If I want to stay home and do absolutely nothing, that’s my choice.”

“Madeline Rose Montgomery,” Mom says in surprise.

Dad just blinks at me and then turns away. But I can see that I hurt his feelings.

“I’m sorry,” I say immediately and rush to him. I launch myself into his arms and hug him so tight I fear I might pop his head off. “I’m really sorry. You’re my dad. I’m just so frustrated. I don’t want to go to the game.”

“Why?” His voice is soft now, like he’s not mad anymore, just confused. “Why don’t you want to go, Buttercup?”

“I don’t fit in there. Kids don’t like me. I’m not fun enough. I don’t find them funny, and I just want to work.”

“You’re going to have your whole life to work. Trust me on that.” He sets me on my feet and kisses the tip of my nose like he’s done since I was a little kid when he came into our lives. “Besides, you won’t be there alone. Your mom and I will be there, too. So will Drew.”

“Great. Now I’m the nerd who has to sit with her parents because she doesn’t have any friends.”

“You have friends,” Mom insists.


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The Scandal (Single in Seattle #2) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-scandal-single-in-seattle-2-read-online-kristen-proread-online Sat, 30 Jul 2022 10:04:23 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-scandal-single-in-seattle-2-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Alpha Male, Angst, Contemporary, Insta-Love, Romance Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 66
Estimated words: 66323 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 332(@200wpm)___ 265(@250wpm)___ 221(@300wpm)
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Read Online Books/Novels:

The Scandal (Single in Seattle #2)

Author/Writer of Book/Novel:

Kristen Proby
Language:
English
ISBN/ ASIN:
B09VHW519S
Book Information:

The Scandal is an all-new marriage of convenience, age-gap novel from New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby, set in her Single in Seattle Series, featuring Stella McKenna!
Who knew that weddings in Vegas were the real deal? I certainly didn’t when I agreed to marry my co-worker while on a bender in Sin City. Now, I need a quick annulment, which means I need an attorney, STAT.
Honestly, with a name like Grayson Sterling, Esquire, I expected an old man in a three-piece suit. But the guy behind the desk is anything but stuffy and old. Tall and sexy with tattoos and striking blue eyes, I simply can’t take my eyes off him, and I have no intention of declining his offer of a date…and more. So much more!
The conversation between us is good, and the man should win awards for his bedroom escapades. I find myself trusting him in ways I never thought I would—until he breaks that trust.
Gray insists he can fix it. He claims he loves me. But I don’t know if we can survive this.
Books in Series:

Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
Books by Author:

Kristen Proby


Prologue

Stella

Ten Years Ago

* * *

“You literally have tattoos all over your body,” I point out and prop my hand on my cocked hip, glaring at my ridiculous father. “I just want a little flower on my rib cage, where no one can even see it unless I’m in a bikini.”

“No tattoos, and no fucking bikinis until you’re over eighteen,” he says. Dad’s voice is calm, but his eyes warn me to drop it.

But I won’t drop it.

“You’re being unreasonable,” I say. “Dad, I’m sixteen. I know what I want. It’s small and hidden.”

“If you’re so sure now, you’ll still be sure in two years when I don’t care what you do. In the meantime, no means no, Stella.”

“But—”

“You might want to quit while you’re ahead, kiddo,” Mom says, not even looking up from the magazine she’s perusing at the kitchen table.

“Do you two understand how much worse this conversation could be? I could be telling you I’m doing drugs. Or that I’m pregnant.”

Now my dad’s eyes narrow, and I know I’m teetering on the edge with him.

But I don’t care.

“You let me pierce my ears. Mom said I could even pierce my navel if I want to.”

“Not permanent,” Mom murmurs.

“Maybe I want new boobs, too.” I glare at my mom, who does have fake boobs.

It doesn’t hurt her feelings. She just looks up at me and raises an eyebrow.

“We’re done here,” Dad says brusquely. “You can be mad all you want, Stella, but you won’t insult your mother. I won’t have it.”

I frown and look down, feeling immediate regret. Why do I always pop off with an insult at someone I love when I’m mad?

“I’m sorry. I really am. I just don’t see what the big deal is.”

“You don’t have to understand it,” he says. “It is what it is. I’ll be in my office for a couple of hours.”

He walks out of the room and down the hall, then closes his door with a firm snick.

“Argh, he makes me so damn mad.”

“I’d say you do the same for him,” Mom says with a sarcastic smile. “It’s two years, Stella. Time passes in the blink of an eye. If you still want the tat then, you can get it. Nate isn’t wrong this time, and you know it.”

“It’s so stupid. Pretty much everyone in this family has tattoos. It’s hypocritical.”

“Hypocritical?” Mom tilts her head to the side. “Name one of your cousins who got inked while still underage.”

I open my mouth and then close it again before letting out a breath and slumping in the chair across from where Mom’s sitting.

“So dumb.”

“Yes, I know. We’re ruining your life.”

“Dad makes me crazy. You know that, right?”

She laughs and picks her magazine back up, flipping the page.

“I can’t wait for you to marry someone just like him.”

“Oh, hell no. That’s never going to happen.”

“Right.” She shows me a page from the magazine. “What do you think of these boots? I think they’re cute, but maybe I’m too old to pull off the thigh-high boots these days.”

“Are you kidding? You have killer legs. You can pull off anything.”

“Even with these fake boobs?”

I huff out a breath. “You know I didn’t mean that in a bad way. I was trying to prove a point.”

“All you did was piss off your dad, and you knew that would happen. You were just mad. I know we’ve given you just about everything you could want, but there are times in this life that you’ll be told no, Stel. Shocker, I know.”

“I don’t like being told no,” I decide after a moment of contemplation.

“None of us do,” she agrees with a laugh. “But that’s life. You’ll survive it. What do you think of these jeans?”

“Too short,” I reply as I move from the chair and snuggle up next to her. “Your legs are too long. But this top would be awesome on you.”

“I think it would be awesome on you,” she says and kisses my cheek. “You okay?”

“Yeah. I should probably apologize to Dad.”

“Good idea. You do that, and I’ll order this top.”

I walk down the hall of our condo to Dad’s office and knock on the door.

“Come in.”

“Hi,” I say as I poke my head in. “Can I come in?”

“Yes.”

He sets his pen down and just watches me as I walk around his desk and wrap my arms around his neck, kissing his rough cheek.

“I’m sorry I’m such a jerk.”

Dad sighs and hugs me back. “You’re not always a jerk.”

I grin and sit on his desk, letting my feet dangle.

“God, you look like Julianne.”

He always calls Mom by her full name. Everyone else calls her Jules, but not Dad. It’s kind of romantic.

My eyes drift over the sleeve tattoo that runs up his arm to disappear into his T-shirt.

“Did they hurt?” I ask.

“A little. See? Better avoid it.”


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The Secret (Single in Seattle #1) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-secret-single-in-seattle-1-read-online-kristen-proread-online Fri, 25 Mar 2022 19:04:47 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-secret-single-in-seattle-1-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Angst, Contemporary, Romance Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 66
Estimated words: 66431 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 332(@200wpm)___ 266(@250wpm)___ 221(@300wpm)
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Read Online Books/Novels:

(Single in Seattle #1) The Secret

Author/Writer of Book/Novel:

Kristen Proby
Language:
English
ISBN/ ASIN:
B09LFQJFVN
Book Information:

From NYT and USA Today Bestselling author Kristen Proby comes a forbidden romance. The Secret is the first in the Single in Seattle series!
Vaughn is everything I’m supposed to stay away from. Sexy. Cocky. And famous. Ultra-famous.
I grew up in a family full of wealthy celebrities. My father, Luke Williams, is the celebrity of them all. A superstar actor and producer, my father knows the downside of living in the spotlight. And because of that, he sheltered my siblings and me from everything Hollywood entailed. We didn’t attend premieres. We weren’t photographed. There were no friendships with other celebrities’ children.
The limelight couldn’t touch us.
But now, at twenty-five, I’m ready to start my life, working for my father’s production company in downtown Seattle—until Vaughn Barrymore walks through the door.
He can’t keep his hands off me. He’s completely forbidden, but I can’t help falling for the sweet, complicated man.
When—and it’s when not if—my family finds out that I’ve been keeping this secret, will I have to choose between the man I love and those who mean the most to me? Or, by some miracle, can I have both?
Books in Series:

Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
Books by Author:

Kristen Proby


Prologue

~Olivia~

Ten Years Ago

* * *

“Dad, I want to go with you.”

I’m sitting on my parents’ bed, watching as my father packs his suitcase. Mom already did hers. She packs way in advance, but Dad’s always doing it at the last minute.

I think it secretly makes my mom want to pull her hair out, and that’s saying a lot since my parents still act like newlyweds, even after being married for fifteen years.

It’s kind of gross.

“We’ve been over this,” he says as he tosses a pair of jeans into his suitcase. “You and your brother and sisters are staying with Nanny and Pap.”

I roll my eyes and sigh heavily. “I’m not a baby anymore, you know. I’m fifteen and definitely old enough to go to the Oscars. What if you win? I want to be there. I want to celebrate with you.”

“And you will, after your mom and I get home. We always have a big party afterwards with the whole family.”

“It’s not the same.” I frown down at my pink Chuck Taylors. “You know, being famous isn’t that bad of a thing. It’s actually really cool, but you make it sound like it’s the end of the world. If you hate it so much, why do you still do it? It’s hypocritical and stupid.”

His head comes up. His eyes narrow on me, and I know I just took it too far.

He definitely won’t let me go now.

“I’ve worked my ass off to balance the scales of fame and family, Olivia Williams, and I’ll be damned if I listen to my teenager berate me for it because she’s throwing a little fit.”

“I shouldn’t have said that; I know. But, Dad—”

“No. You shouldn’t have said that.”

His voice is hard, and I know I’ve royally pissed him off and ruined any chance I might have had of talking him into letting me go.

Not that the chance was high to begin with, but I like to think it was better than zero.

“I’m sorry.” I reach for his hand when he moves to walk away. “I really am, Daddy. You’re kind of a nerd, but you’re also totally cool.”

“Nerd, am I?” His face softens just a little, and I know he won’t be mad at me for long. He never is.

“Have you seen the action figures in your office? None of us kids play with toys anymore.”

“I caught Keaton in there checking them out just last week.”

“He’s a nerd, too.” I smile up at him. “Dad, why do you hate it so much? Why are you so strict about protecting us from Hollywood?”

He sighs and sits next to me, leaning over to kiss my forehead.

“I hate the internet,” he mutters and rubs his hand down his face. “Because being famous isn’t all fun parties and big houses, Liv. The press is a bitch. We’ll have this talk later. But for now, if I don’t finish packing, your mother will have my hide, and I make it a point not to piss her off.”

“And yet, you always wait until the last minute to pack.”

He stops and frowns down at me. “Whose side are you on, anyway, little girl?”

I laugh and shake my head. “Whichever one keeps me out of trouble.”

“Best director is up next!” Keaton announces as Nanny hurries back into the room with fresh popcorn for us all. “He’s gonna win. He’s totally gonna win!”

“It takes forever,” Haley complains with a pout. “Why are the Oscars so long?”

“Because they have a lot of people to honor,” Pap says with a wink. “A lot of work goes into movies.”

Dad’s movie did well this year. Several from his production company were nominated, but the one he directed and produced totally cleaned up. Best actor, best actress, and best costume design, just for starters. Every time the camera pans over to him, Dad’s full of proud smiles.

Dang it, I wish I was there.

We all hold our breath as they announce the nominees. Chelsea, being the youngest at ten, clutches my hand with all her might.

“Come on, come on, come on,” she whispers.

“And the Oscar goes to…Luke Williams!”

“Yes!”

“Yay!”

“I knew it!”

As we watch Dad kiss our mom and then walk up on stage, we all clap and jump up and down with excitement.

“Hush, now. He’s speaking,” Nan says.

“What an honor,” Dad begins and then smiles down at Mom in that goofy way he always does. “Wow. Well, first, of course, I have to thank my gorgeous wife for loving me and putting up with a lot. Same goes for my kids, who are all watching from home with my parents, who are also just the best. I love you guys.”

“I love you, too,” Haley says to the TV as Gran wipes away tears.

He goes on to thank his crew, the actors, and the other people that he works with. Many names are familiar because I eavesdrop all the time on my dad’s conversations.


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The Surprise (Single in Seattle #0.5) Read Online Kristen Proby http://www.books2020.com/the-surprise-single-in-seattle-0-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Tue, 08 Mar 2022 20:37:37 +0000 http://www.booksnovels.com/the-surprise-single-in-seattle-0-5-read-online-kristen-proread-online Categories Genre: Contemporary, Novella, Romance Tags Authors: Series: Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
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Total pages in book: 23
Estimated words: 22838 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 114(@200wpm)___ 91(@250wpm)___ 76(@300wpm)
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(Single in Seattle #0.5) The Surprise

Author/Writer of Book/Novel:

Kristen Proby
Language:
English
ISBN/ ASIN:
9781633501294
Book Information:

Brax Adler is a complete liar. He’s also the love of my life. So, when he ends up in my emergency room after a car accident, I can’t resist helping him—but only long enough to get him healed. And then I’m out of there.
He’s broken my heart before. I’m not giving him the chance to do it again.
But the more time I spend with him, the more it feels like coming home again. He swears he’s changed and that we can start fresh. And it feels so good to be in his arms.
I long to believe him.
But what if this is just another of his lies, and I end up with a broken heart anyway? Is it worth the risk? Or should I walk away?
Books in Series:

Single in Seattle Series by Kristen Proby
Books by Author:

Kristen Proby


CHAPTER 1

~JOSIE~

God, I’m just tired all the way to my bones. I love being a nurse. I’ve known since I was a little girl that I wanted to work with patients, but some days, it just kicks my ass.

Or, maybe I should say nights. Because I work the night shift in the Seattle General emergency room, and there is never a dull moment.

Especially on nights like last night—on a full moon and Halloween.

There were moments I couldn’t tell the difference between the fake blood and the real stuff—which can really be an obstacle to a girl’s job.

“Good times,” I say on a sigh as I start the car and lean my head back on the seat for just a minute, enjoying the quiet as the sound of the radio fills my car, and my mind empties of last night’s chaos.

She’ll change your life.

You’ll never let her go.

She’ll become your wife.

Josie, you’re the one, so…

I sit up straight and stare at the radio in shock.

“I know this song.”

Images immediately fill my head: Brax and me in the bathtub; him sitting across from me while playing his guitar and singing the song he wrote for me.

This song.

“This is the number-one-requested song this week here at KPTY Pop Radio, and I’m excited to welcome Brax Adler himself into the booth with me. Hey, man.”

“Thanks for having me.”

God, I’d recognize that voice anywhere. Smooth as silk and wrapped in sin. Brax has the voice of them all.

He could melt a girl’s panties off with one little whisper.

I should know. In the three years I was with him, I hardly ever had my panties on.

“I love that this song is getting nationwide attention, Brax. You must be thrilled.”

“It’s pretty dope, yeah, man. The guys and I are stoked.”

“You’ve been a mainstay in the Seattle music scene for a few years now, and I have to tell you, we’re all rooting for you.”

“I appreciate that, thank you.”

“Now, let’s talk about My Girl. Who wrote the song?”

“I wrote it a few years ago,” Brax answers.

“Is it about someone, or is it a work of fiction?”

My heart stutters as I hold my breath and chew on my bottom lip.

Me. He wrote it for me.

“Well, I wrote it for my girlfriend at the time,” Brax admits. “But, she dumped me.”

“What?” I demand, not even hearing the DJ’s response. “You little liar. You backstabbing piece of crap. That’s not how it happened, and you know it!”

I shut the radio off and pull out of my parking space, fuming.

After all the shit that man pulled, now he’s going to lie on the radio?

I shouldn’t expect anything less, really.

I’m still pissed when I pull into the garage of the little townhouse that I share with my twin sister. When I walk into the kitchen and hear the radio playing, Brax’s stupid, sexy voice flowing through the speakers, I narrow my eyes on Maddie.

“Why are you listening to this?”

“I wondered if you’d heard it,” she says with a cringe and taps the screen of her phone to shut it off. “Just ignore him. He’s an idiot.”

“But I didn’t dump him,” I insist as I open the fridge and rummage around for my dinner. It may be six in the morning, but it’s dinnertime for me. I pull out all the makings for a salad and baked chicken and start chopping veggies on the island.

“I’m not sure you should have a knife in your hand when you’re this pissed off,” Maddie says, backing away slowly while eyeing the knife.

“You know what really pisses me off?” I ask and point the sharp end of the blade at her. “He could have just said, ‘Oh, it just didn’t work out with her,’ or something just as vague. Instead, the prick lied.”

“Par for the course with that guy, right?”

“No. He wasn’t a liar when we were together. I don’t know why he’s starting a life of deception now. It’s weird.”

“Okay, I think you need to forget about Br—He Who Shall Not Be Named,” she amends at my cold stare, “and tell me about your night. Were you busy?”

“Full moon on Halloween? Yes, we were busy.”

“You see the best stuff,” Maddie says as she sits on the stool and watches me get my chicken ready to go into the oven. “My job isn’t that exciting.”

“You’re an accountant,” I remind her. “If you saw blood and guts at your job, that would be a red flag.”

My sister snorts and nods. “True. And, unlike you, blood makes me sick. Okay, I have to go into the office, but I should be home around noon since it’s Friday. I’m taking a half-day in case you want to hang out or something.”

“Hopefully, I’ll be passed out until about five. I work again tonight.”

“I’ll be quiet then,” she says with a wink. “Sleep well, and don’t let Brax get to you. He’s old news. Who cares if he’s suddenly famous? It doesn’t impact you at all.”


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