Trust and stability became empty words the day motherless, sixteen-year-old Carrie Norwell’s brothers were murdered and her father’s heart gave out at the scene. Five years later, her barricaded heart remains virtually impenetrable to anyone willing to get close and offer what she wants more than anything: a loving family of her own.
That’s exactly what Billy Jay Eldridge wants to offer the right girl. Operating on a heart and spirit rivaled only by his looks, he’s two years out of college, managing a store and on his way up the corporate ladder. Still, he toys daily with nobler--yet dangerous--career aspirations. Then shy, quiet Carrie joins his crew. Intrigued by her haunted eyes, he sets out to know her better, unaware his life’s calling will be the greatest obstacle to getting her to accept from him what she wants and needs most.
(208 pages) Sweet
EXCERPT:
“Afraid to be alone with me?”
The rain ebbed a bit, but inside Carrie a storm gained power. Yes, she wanted to shout, I’m afraid to care for you, afraid to want you. “Please, Billy Jay. I need to go. Now.”
Billy Jay moved, but didn’t let her by. He cupped her face in his wet hands instead.
Instantly sparks flamed. Carrie froze, afraid of what she’d do if Billy Jay kissed her, of the feelings being near him evoked. She took slow, steadying breaths. “What do you want?”
“Just a little of your time,” he said, his casual tone gone. “Enough to know me better. I won’t ask for more.”
Carrie stared into Billy Jay’s blue magnet of a gaze. Under that undeniably beautiful shell she recognized an even kinder spirit, and for some insane, inexplicable reason, he wanted Carrie.
Her breath caught and she fought to check her emotions. More confused than before, Carrie responded the only way she knew. “Please, Billy Jay. Leave me alone.”
“I already told you, Carrie. I can’t.” His fingers grazed her face.
Intense, unfamiliar sensations alarmed her. “Wh-why not?”
His gaze stayed steady. “As long as I can remember, I’ve prayed for an angel.”
The steady rain pelted Carrie’s face, but she lowered her tired arms and rested the jacket on her head. “That’s very nice, but why tell me?”
Billy Jay waited until he had her full attention. In his eyes was the unmistakable glow Carrie had seen the day he gave her the summons. “I’m thinking she’s you.”
Product 381/674
