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Just A Little Crush (The Sterling Family Crossover Series Book 1)

Coming March 20, 2025

It’s just a little crush. What could possibly go wrong?

Caleb Kane has had more than enough relationship drama to last a lifetime. So, romance with the gorgeous server he had a hot one-night stand with isn’t in the cards. She would, however, make the perfect fake fiancé to help him win his custody battle. As long as he doesn’t do something stupid. Like fall in love… 

Stevie Griffen knew girls like her only ended up with men like Caleb in romance novels. So, when she agrees to fake a relationship with him in exchange for an obscene amount of money, she has no plans to let the sexy single dad anywhere near her heart. Too bad her plans rarely ever pan out…

It’s not long before Caleb and Stevie’s simple business arrangement is complicated by some very steamy nights. But with so much at stake, can they turn their fake engagement into a real happily ever after?

Side characters you meet in THE STERLING FAMILY SERIES come to life in the fresh, spicy new STERLING CROSSOVER SERIES! New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author, Carly Phillips, and USA Today Bestselling Author, Erika Wilde are back!Book InfoPreorder from other retailersKindleNookApple BooksKoboGoogle PlayAudio info coming soon!

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Coming September 17th (or sooner)

Second Teaser

Dex woke to the sun shining through his bedroom window and it took a few minutes for him to place where he was. He’d heard about Asher Dare’s estate in the Bahamas from Ian and now he was experiencing it first-hand.

Last night, after the private plane had landed, a guy named Corey picked them up from the airport and drove them to the house which had been well-lit for their arrival. The housekeeper was waiting for them and she greeted Samantha with a warm hug and before he knew it, they’d both been offered a bowl of ice cream. Sensing Samantha needed alone time, he’d declined and allowed Corey to lead him to the bedroom where he’d be staying, and he crashed hard.

He braced a hand behind his head and thought back to the being with Samantha on the plane. Even with her eyes red-rimmed from crying, her face makeup free, and her adorable freckles showing, Samantha had been beautiful. Enough for him to decide to go to sleep instead of sharing ice cream in the kitchen and exchanging more confidences. It didn’t help that as he’d turned in for the night, a sobering thought had hit him hard.

Samantha Dare just might be the one that got away.

The harsh ringing of his cell and the sight of Ian Dare’s name on the screen jerked him back to reality.

Resigned, he answered the phone. “Morning, Ian.”

“What the hell are you doing with my sister?” his former team owner and now friend asked.

Dex rolled his eyes but at the same time he understood. “I’m taking care of her.” He relayed the story of how he’d come across her outside the hotel, omitting the part about almost running her over. “Something I’d hope you’d do for my sister if the situation were reversed.” It never hurt to remind the other man when he was being a pompous jerk. Problem was, Ian liked his reputation as a hard-ass.

“You know I would take care of your family.” Ian paused. “But I want to kill that asshole. I never liked Jeremy Rollins and I told Samantha as much.”

“And how’d that go over?” Dex rose from the bed and paced the cold ceramic tile floor.

“Not well. Why do you ask?”

He glanced up at the huge white ceiling fan circling overhead, thinking about the best way to reply. Dex was determined to make things with Samantha’s family easier for her.

He hated seeing her so worked up and upset, worrying about what the people she loved would say when they knew the whole story. “Because your sister loves you and knows you’re going to freak out. About a lot of things. And as your friend, I’m suggesting you … go easy on her.”

“You’ve known Samantha all of how long? And you’re telling me how to deal with my sister?”

Knowing his friend, Dex counted to five in his head until Ian replied.

“You’ve got a point.”

Dex knew he did. “I’ll get her to call you later.”

“I’d appreciate that. She’s been dodging my calls and texts.”

“Because you’re leaving her I told you so messages!” a female voice called out from Ian’s side of the call.

“Hush, baby. Behave, will you?” Ian asked.

Dex chuckled. “I take it that’s Riley?” he asked of Ian’s wife.

“There’s no one else I’d call baby,” Ian said in a gruffer voice than before.

“I should hope not,” Riley said.

And then Dex thought she whispered something that made him cringe at overhearing their sexual banter.

Ian cleared his throat. “Back to Samantha. I’m trusting you not to take advantage of my sister when she’s vulnerable.”

Despite expecting the words, they pissed Dex off anyway and he had to swallow back a fuck you, retort. As if Ian didn’t know him well enough to have faith in him.

“Don’t worry, I know how to treat women, Ian.” He let his annoyance show in his clipped tone. “I’ll have Samantha call you,” he said again, and cut their connection, tossing his phone onto the unmade bed.

Twenty minutes later, he’d unpacked the few things he’d brought with him, showered, dressed in swim trunks, and headed downstairs to see Samantha and find out her plans for the day. And whether or not they included him.

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The post Just One More Dare: Second Teaser appeared first on Carly Phillips.

Coming September 17th (or sooner)

First Teaser

Dex turned into the circular drive of the Meridian Hotel where Kelvin was staying. Sunbeams streamed between two buildings, immediately hitting his eyes, all but blinding him for precious seconds. As soon as he could see again, a woman in a cloud of white material surrounding her stepped in front of his vehicle and he slammed on the brake. 

She spun too fast and fell to the ground, disappearing from sight. 

“Shit!” But he hadn’t hit her. He hoped. After jamming on park, he flung open the door and climbed out, rushing to where she’d gone down. 

The doorman was already fussing over her, insisting he call an ambulance.

“I wasn’t hit,” she argued. “Just startled.” 

Dex stepped closer. “Are you really okay?” he asked, as familiar indigo blue eyes looked up at him and recognition dawned. “Samantha?” 

He was surprised to realize he’d almost hit Ian Dare’s youngest sister. Ian, the Thunder team owner and Dex’s former boss. And the man who’d blocked any shot Dex could have had with Samantha years before. Just recently, he’d heard from Ian, who was now a good friend, that his sister was getting married but Dex hadn’t known where, when or to whom. Truth be told, he’d tried to block the entire thing from his mind.

“Dex! Small world,” she said, as he helped her to her feet, wincing as she stood. “I twisted my ankle,” she muttered, leaning down, lifting her skirts and pulling off her heels.

She was as beautiful as he remembered, her blonde hair falling to her shoulders, clipped behind her head with a white bow. Her skin was a gleaming porcelain, with a hint of blush, and a smokey look to her eyes.  

She was stunning. And marrying another man.

“Shouldn’t you be inside… I don’t know, getting married or something?” His voice sounded unnecessarily harsh. 

She flinched, his words causing her eyes to open wide. As if remembering where she was and why. “No, that’s the last thing I want to do.” She glanced back over her shoulder then met his gaze. “Get me out of here, Dex? Please?”

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The post Just One More Dare: First Teaser appeared first on Carly Phillips.

Chapter Three

She thinks happily ever after only happens in romance novels.
He can’t wait to prove her wrong.

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Chapter Three

Remy was more in tune with Raven than she realized. With his heart in his throat, he’d watched her hesitancy as he waited for her decide whether to come upstairs with him. Now that she had, he wasn’t going to tread lightly. The worst thing he could do was give her the chance to think… and run. He needed her engaged and with him the whole way.

He let them into the hotel room and the door slammed shut behind them. He tossed the key onto the dresser, turned and saw her looking around the luxurious room before her gaze landed on him. Aware of her captivated stare, he shrugged off his tuxedo jacket and laid it over the nearest chair, then undid the bowtie, slid one side around and off his neck, and placed it beside the key card. Cufflinks came next.

All the while, she watched, her lips slightly parted, her cheeks flushed with desire. He undid his cuffs before releasing each button on the shirt until the garment hung open at his sides. Her stare came to rest on his bare chest.

Yeah. She was all in. He crossed the room to where she stood, braced his hands on her hips and yanked her against him, the hard length of his erection rubbing against her core.

“Remy,” she said on a moan.

His name on her lips had his cock standing at attention, wanting out of the confines of his pants. “I’m all yours, sweetheart.”

Her eyes dilated at the endearment, and she grasped his lapels, clearly wanting to take off his shirt. Helping, he shrugged it down his shoulders and onto the floor.

She reached for the opening of his trousers but he grasped her hands, stopping her before she could release him.

She pursed her lips in a pretty pout. “But I want to see.”

He grinned. “And you will. But I want my fill of you first.” And if she touched him, he might just come in her hand. “Turn around,” his said, his voice as gravelly as he’d ever heard it, desire a live pulsing being in his veins.

She did as he asked and with her hair already up, he easily leaned in, breathing in her delicate peach scent. Closing his eyes he savored being so close to what he wanted. He pressed his lips to her soft skin before flicking open the dress clasp and easing the gown off her body, leaving her in a pair of tiny silk panties and highs silver heeled sandals. Her skin was flawless, a creamy vision that had him pulling in a deep, calming breath.

She turned to face him, giving him his first look at her perfect breasts. Not more than a handful, which had allowed her to ditch the bra, she was his fantasy come to life and he sealed his lips over hers.

She moaned and their tongues tangled, giving him the go-ahead. And when she slid her fingers into his hair, holding him in place, his heart slammed hard inside his chest.

He walked her backwards until her back hit the wall. He took in her heavy-lidded gaze, then pulled one of her legs up so she cradled his dick, his solid erection rubbing against her pussy. Her breathing changed, small pants along with little gasps, so he moved faster, giving her what she needed. He wanted to watch as she came apart before he was too far gone to see. He needed that connection with her, something that showed him this was more than just hot sex, though it was that.

Lifting his hand, he cupped one breast in his palm and worked her nipple with his thumb and forefinger, pinching and releasing the tight bud. And she began to writhe against him, harder and faster, her urgency feeding his desire.

“Take what you need,” he coaxed her, rubbing his cock against her covered sex.

“Oh God, so good. More,” she demanded. He pinched her nipple hard and she let go, rocking against him, her body trembling as her climax neared.

Knowing he was about to come in his slacks, he replaced his cock with his palm and rubbed the heel of his hand against her soaked panties, giving her pressure and friction, until she shattered.

“Remy!” She screamed his name and her orgasm rushed over her, her hands gripping his shoulders, her nails digging into his skin.

He watched her come, her cheeks flushed, lips damp and parted. Fuck, she was gorgeous.

When her tremors subsided, he stepped back and unhooked his pants, stripping them off along with his boxer shorts, his stiff cock finally free. Precum beaded on the head. Pulling in a harsh breath, he gripped the base tight and groaned at the sensation that rushed through him. In an attempt to stave off a premature orgasm, he forced himself to count to ten and not think about the beautiful woman he’d just made come.

When he opened his lids, he saw Raven staring, eyes wide … panties and shoes off, leaving her completely nude. Ready for him.

He stepped forward and sealed his lips over hers, causing her head to hit the wall and a giggle to escape.

“Sorry, sweetheart. You okay?” he asked.

“Not yet… but I will be.” She slid her hands between them and nudged his arm away so she could encircle his cock with her smaller hand, clasping him as best she could.

He set his jaw, letting her have her way, and she pumped her hand up and down his shaft, swiping her thumb over the sensitive head.

“Enough,” he gritted out. “Unless you want this to end without my cock inside you.”

“Not a chance,” she said and immediately released her grip.

He lifted her leg, giving himself access to that sweet pussy but just as he rubbed himself at her entrance she stilled.

“Condom,” she reminded him.

He reared back in surprise. Shit. He’d never wanted anyone badly enough to forget protection. Bending down, he grabbed his pants, found his wallet in a pocket, and pulled out what she thought was one condom. “Two,” he said, as revealed the second in his hand.

Once he’d covered himself, he repositioned them, grabbing her leg and setting himself at her entrance once more. He met her gaze and saw a hint of vulnerability there, one he’d never associated with Raven, and an unfamiliar pang squeezed his chest.

Tonight he’d seen glimpses of the real woman behind the professional façade she normally kept in place. She joked with him, stood up to him, and shown him raw emotion. And he liked it. All things he’d have to think about later because she raised her hips and he thrust deep, stilling inside her.

The warmth and sweetness of her pussy enveloped him and he

took a moment to savor the tight grip of her sex, the warmth of her body. And the need for her alone. He brushed a kiss over her lips before he began to move, sliding out and plunging back in.

They came together in an explosion of need. She met each thrust, taking all he had and giving back in return. Over and over, he drove into her, need spiraling inside him. His balls drew up and his spine tingled. He was about to come, something he wouldn’t let happen until she climaxed first.

Remembering how she’d come before, he cupped one breast in his hand and tweaked her nipple hard. She shook, rubbing herself against him each time he slammed deep, and then she stilled, she moaned, and she came apart in his arms.

Two more thrusts and he joined her, rocking her against the wall until his legs felt like Jell-O and it was hard to hold her up along with him. Still inside her, he focused on getting his breathing to regulate so he could take off the condom and get them into bed.

He lifted his forehead off hers and met her gaze, unable to read her expression. Was she with him or feeling regret?

Before he could ask if she was okay, she grabbed his face in her hands and kissed him full on the lips. And the world as he knew it tilted on its axis.

#

Raven didn’t sleep. It wasn’t because she and Remy had stumbled into bed for a repeat performance, though they had. And it wasn’t because she’d let herself indulge in all things Remy Sterling. No, she tossed and turned beside him because of that kiss she’d given him while he was still inside her their first time.

She’d gone into this wanting to chalk the whole night up to a one-time thing but that kiss and the expression on his face told her he had real feelings. And so did she. Too bad she couldn’t let herself enjoy them.

She sighed and glanced at his handsome profile. He breathed in and out, sleeping easily. But he didn’t have a past that was going to return and destroy the life he’d built. Raven’s sociopath brother might be in prison now but he wouldn’t stay there forever. The last thing he’d said after she testified against him was, he’d get even. And Lance never said anything he didn’t mean.

She’d already moved twice after he’d sent men who’d gotten out of prison before him to stop by and reiterate his warning. Lance meant business and she couldn’t risk having feelings for anyone. Because if her brother figured out she cared for someone, that she had a weakness, he’d hurt them in order to get to Raven.  He’d done it once before.

And the last person she wanted hurt was Remy.

This whole night had probably been one big error in judgment and though she couldn’t bring herself to regret it, she couldn’t repeat it, either.

Her chest was heavy as she contemplated leaving before he woke up but she was stronger than that. The least she could do was face him after such a spectacular night. Besides, she’d have to face him at work on Monday anyway, she thought and let out a sigh.

“I can hear you thinking,” Remy said, his voice deep and amused.

He wouldn’t be if he knew what she’d been considering. She pushed herself up and leaned against the pillows and headboard, pulling the sheet over her breasts.

“No need to hide, sweetheart. I’ve already seen… and tasted all of you.”

Her cheeks burned at the memory of him doing exactly that. “Listen, Remy. Last night was amazing but –“

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The post Just One More Moment: Chapter 3 appeared first on Carly Phillips.

Chapters One & Two

She thinks happily ever after only happens in romance novels.
He can’t wait to prove her wrong.

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Chapter One

“I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the-” Before the officiant could finish his sentence, Zach Dare swept his bride into his arms and dipped her head for a long, nearly-inappropriate-for-an-audience kiss.

Raven Walsh joined the rest of the guests, clapping for the newlyweds as they joined hands and made their way back down the white rose lined aisle.

“I adore a good second-chance love story,” Stevie Palmer, Raven’s friend and waitress at the bar she managed, said. Stevie rose from her seat and Raven followed suit, waiting for everyone in their row to file out and head for the reception.

Raven laughed. “You and your romance novels.” She shook her head at her book-loving friend. “But in this case, I have to say I agree.” Even she, with the lack of a relationship in her life, couldn’t deny these two deserved happiness and a long future together. “If anyone was meant to be together, it’s Zach and Hadley.” They’d lost each other once due to circumstances beyond their control and fought hard upon Hadley’s return. In more ways than one.

The bridal party, consisting of Hadley’s young sister, and all seven of Zach’s brothers, sisters, and sisters-in-law, followed the couple down the aisle. So did the best man, Zach’s best friend and business partner.

He also happened to be Raven’s boss and the star of her fantasies. Wearing a black, double-breasted tuxedo with wide lapels, a white shirt, and black bow tie, Remington Sterling was the epitome of sexy. His brown hair was lightly gelled. Choosing not to shave, he’d kept the beard she loved and imagined scraping along her thighs. Which would not be happening. Bad, Raven. She shouldn’t be having naughty thoughts about her boss.

He might flirt up a storm whenever they were together but as much as she wanted to know him better, and end up between the sheets, Raven had to keep her distance. Her past was always waiting to pop up and destroy anyone she got close to. These days, that past was getting closer than ever. She shuddered and pushed the thought out of her mind.

Remy walked up the aisle and stood parallel to her row. He caught her gaze, treating her to a wink before striding forward, leaving her with a view of his broad shoulders and back, and a tingling feeling low in her belly.

Beside her, Stevie let out a whistle. “That man wants you.”

And Raven wanted him. 

Too bad she wasn’t destined for the happily ever after Hadley had found. Raven didn’t begrudge her friend the love she and Zach shared. She just wished one day, she could have the same. But fate didn’t seem to cut her any breaks. Still, she’d created a good life for herself and wasn’t one to dwell on the negatives.

The people beside her started to move and Raven followed the woman next to her out of the row. A little while later, she and Stevie stood with a glass in hand, looking around the Meridian NYC Hotel room where the cocktail hour was being held.

“I have to say, this drink is delicious.” Raven took another sip of the wedding couple’s specialty offering, a peppermint white Russian, made with Kahlua, her favorite liqueur.

“Rich people and their signature drinks,” Stevie said. “My brother got married at the VFW Hall in my small New Hampshire town. Guests paid for their own alcohol. I’m sure you get it, right?”

Raven stilled mid-sip. For all outward appearances, she was just like Stevie. A New York City working girl. Her clothing was a mix of thrift store finds and affordable fashion, she shopped at inexpensive grocery stores and ate at home more often than she spent money in restaurants. When she did go out, she knew all the good but cheap places and her recreation choices were the same. Free museum days, outdoor art in the summer, and free movies at Backyard at Hudson Yards.

Her upbringing, however, was the same as Remy’s. Private schools, expensive restaurants, summers in Sag Harbor…

“Raven?”

She shook her head. “Sorry,” she said to her friend. “I got lost in thought.”

“I was saying I’m sure you understand how out of place I feel at this wedding. The Back Door is much more my speed.”

Raven leaned over the table so she could talk lower and still be heard. “Actually, I grew up like this.” She gestured around the gorgeously decorated room.

“You’re kidding?” Stevie’s eyes opened wide.

Raven shook her head. “My biological mom died when I was five and I went into foster care. I was quickly adopted by a wealthy family and had all… this.” And so much more, she thought with a shiver.

Stevie raised her eyebrows. “But you’re so unaffected.”

Raven laughed. “Much to my mother’s chagrin. She wanted a frilly, girly girl. Instead, she got me.”

Stepping back, Stevie looked her over. “Well, if she saw you in that dress, she’d rethink her assessment, at least on the surface.” She lifted her glass to her red-stained lips and took a sip. “And if Remy’s stares are anything to go by, he also likes what he sees.”

Pleasure rushed through Raven at the thought. No matter how many times she pretended to ignore the man’s flirting and innuendos, she enjoyed it nonetheless. If she weren’t always on edge, waiting for her psychotic brother to be released from prison, she’d want nothing more than to indulge in everything Remington Sterling.

“Where did you find the gown?” Stevie asked. “After searching everywhere, I had to settle for plain black. It was the only one I liked.”

Raven placed her glass on the table and smoothed her hands over her floor-length dress. “Would you believe I found it in a consignment store? And you look incredible. Black always works.”

Raven might come from money but her mother had cut her off for reasons she had no desire to think about. Even if she had access to the family money, she couldn’t see the point in spending a fortune on a dress she’d probably only wear once.

“Good job! That color is incredible.”

The turquoise gown had stood out among the black ones, calling to her, and once she’d tried it on, she’d been sold. The blue-green hue complemented her skin tone and she’d loved the look of the halter top that dipped low at her cleavage.

She turned and looked over her shoulder to find Remy standing with a deep amber-colored drink in his hand. He talked with Asher Dare, Zach’s oldest brother, but his gaze was on Raven. In all the time she’d worked for him, spent time with him at the bar, and tried not to react to his flirting, he’d never looked at her quite this way before.

From the heated expression on his face, the deep flush highlighting his cheekbones, and the way his golden-brown eyes that matched the color of his whiskey drank her in, Stevie was right. He appreciated what he saw.

Stevie tapped her shoulder and Raven turned. “Oops. Sorry.” Raven blushed at being caught staring at her boss.

Her friend grinned. “Why does something tell me I’m going to be leaving this wedding alone?” They’d done their makeup and dressed at her apartment and had taken an Uber to the party together. When the night ended, they’d planned to split the car service, Raven getting dropped off first, then Stevie.

Raven shook her head. “I wouldn’t do that to you,” she said, her stare still on Remy.

He said something to Asher before making his way toward her with a predatory look in his eyes.

Stevie chuckled. “Famous last words, my friend. Famous last words.

Chapter Two

Remy glanced around the rose-filled room and knew the décor was courtesy of Zach’s mom, Serenity. All Hadley and Zach cared about was getting married and starting their lives together. Remy liked Hadley for his friend. She was as down-to-earth as a person could be. Sort of like Raven.

His gaze drifted to the woman who was never far from his thoughts. She stood with one of the bar waitresses and they talked as they sipped their drinks.

Remy was used to seeing Raven wearing her Back Door uniform; a pair of formfitting black jeans and a matching T-shirt with the bar logo on the back. Though she was tall and thin, her round breasts filled out the snug shirt and her jeans accentuated the sweet curve of her ass. She typically wore her long hair up in a ponytail on workdays and when he ran into her on days off, her light brown curls fell to her mid-back.

He’d thought she was gorgeous with a full face of makeup and casual clothes, but he hadn’t been prepared for the siren who showed up tonight. The turquoise dress accentuated her green eyes and draped her body, the low dip at her cleavage revealing what her T-shirts only hinted at.

He itched to unwind her hair now pulled into an updo. Then he’d thread his fingers through the soft strands, wrap it around his hand, and pull hard as he entered her from behind. Imagining the moans coming from deep in her throat, he thought about flipping her over so he could look into those teal-colored eyes and watch her face as she came.

She was so fucking hot but more than that, she had a good heart. How did he know? He’d seen her take a sandwich in hand each night and walk it out to the homeless man who all but owned the corner nearby. From the time he’d bought into Zach’s two businesses and met Raven, he’d been hooked.

“You haven’t heard a word I’ve said, have you?” Asher asked.

Caught, Remy forced his gaze away from Raven and glanced at Zach’s brother. “Not a word.”

Asher shook his head and laughed. “Nothing I can say, considering I’ve been in your shoes.” He looked around the room, finally locking his gaze on his young wife, Nikki. “Hell, I still am,” he admitted.

Asher and Nikki’s story was unusual. He’d taken his now wife to his Bahamas retreat as a favor to his best friend as a means of getting her away from a nude photo scandal. Since Nikki was much younger, not to mention his friend’s little sister, Asher had tried to keep his hands off. Needless to say, he hadn’t. It had taken a while, but they were now a solid couple.

Remy’s gaze came to rest on Raven again, watching her toy with a strand of hair dangling around her face.

“Oh, hell. Go for it already,” Asher muttered on a low chuckle.

With a shrug, Remy decided his friend had a point. It was time. His stare still locked with Raven’s, he made his way across the room and joined the two women standing by a high table.

“Hello, ladies,” he said, his focus never wavering.

“Hi, boss,” Stevie replied.

He glanced her way and smiled. “I think you can call me Remy when we’re not at work.”

She laughed. “Remy,” she parroted. “Since you’re here, can you keep Raven company while I go to the ladies’ room?”

He turned to see Raven glare at her friend and stifled a laugh. “Go ahead, Stevie. I’d be more than happy to take care of her.”

Stevie’s devilish grin told him she was playing matchmaker. Remy was so grateful he might even give her a raise.

He waited for the other woman to walk off before stepping closer to his prey. “You look beautiful tonight,” he said to Raven.

Edible, but telling her that would be beyond inappropriate. Not that he cared much for proprieties but he didn’t want to scare her off.

“Thank you.” Her eyes did a sweep of his body, ending with her gaze meeting his. “You’re looking dashing yourself.”

He grinned, pleased she wasn’t shy or backing away. “Thank you.” He took a sip of his drink and placed it on the table.

“I see the men have a signature drink as well. What’s in yours?” she asked.

“Whiskey smash. It’s whiskey with mint and powdered sugar sprinkled on top. Jury’s still out. I prefer my liquor neat. What’s yours called?” He pointed to the two glasses that were hers and Stevie’s.

“Peppermint white Russian.” Picking up a glass, Raven took a long taste and let out a groan of delight. One that had his cock perking up in his tuxedo pants. “Delicious.”

“Mmm. I’d like a taste,” he said, staring at her mouth because he wanted to sample the liqueur directly from her lips.

Her eyes grew heavy at his implication. “Here.” She offered him her glass instead.

Since it was the next best thing and her lips had already been on the rim, he accepted the drink and lifted it to his mouth. With their stares still connected, he drank. The thick, coffee liqueur mixed with vodka—Dirty Dare Vodka, no doubt—was sweet. “I agree. It’s delicious.” He placed the glass back on the table.

The lights began to flash, indicating they were ready to move on to the ballroom part of the night.

“Time to take our seats. I’ll see you later,” Raven said, the relief in her voice palpable. She started to walk away but Remy was onto her.

He caught up and hooked his arm in hers as they stepped toward the ballroom along with the rest of the guests.

“What are you doing?” she asked.

“Escorting you to our table.” He guided her around the slower people who had stopped to talk. “You’re at table two and so am I.”

She tripped and he steadied her, keeping her close. “Aren’t you sitting with the wedding party?” she asked.

“Nope.”

He felt her stare and turned to wink at her before continuing to guide them to their destination. He’d asked Hadley to put them at the same table.

“Don’t worry. Stevie’s sitting with us, too.” It was natural that she and Stevie, and anyone else from work, would be together.

Hadley had originally put him with the Dares but when she’d shown him the seating chart, he’d noticed the work table was smaller than the normal ten-person round. He’d gladly offered to sit there. Zach’s soon-to-be wife had treated him to a knowing look and a pleased smile. Then she’d asked if his willingness had anything to do with Raven.

He’d answered her with one word. Everything. His seating choice was all about the woman beside him now.

They stepped into the large room and even Remy was overwhelmed by the sight. The tables had high, white rose centerpieces, and the lighting gave the space a light lavender glow.

“This looks… beautiful,” Raven murmured, obviously in awe.

Which surprised him considering she came from a wealthy family. Remy only knew as much about Raven as Zach’s hiring background check told him. The most curious fact was that her given name was Caroline Kane, yet she went by Raven Walsh. He had no idea why.

Raven was a gorgeous blend of contradictions he wanted to understand even more than he plain wanted her. She lived in the apartment upstairs from the bar and Zach mentioned she’d asked him to put an alarm system on the windows and doors before she’d moved in. Not that he blamed her, being a single woman living alone in Manhattan. But as a former detective and current private investigator, it sparked his curiosity.

Raven Walsh was a mystery. And Remy liked mysteries.

“The décor is beautiful,” she said.

He leaned in close and whispered in her ear, “Not as beautiful as you.”

Her lips parted and the sight had him desperate for a taste but before he could make a move, someone jostled them, killing the moment.

“Sorry,” a female voice said as the person rushed around them.

A flush stained Raven’s cheeks. He understood. His entire body vibrated with need, but he sucked it up and led her to the table he’d scoped out earlier. One set away from the speakers and near the dance floor, a place where he intended to take Raven into his arms and pull her tight against his body for the first time.

Most of the guests had claimed their seats, including Stevie, who stood beside her chair and waved at Raven. Remy released her arm and she rushed over to her friend, placing her purse on her chair.

Remy took his time walking over because there was just one seat left at the table.

And it was right next to Raven.

#

     If Raven didn’t know better, she’d say Remy had planned the seating, from them being at the same table to him ending up sitting beside her. They’d taken their chairs, waiting for the bride and groom to make their entrance, and Raven studied Remy’s profile.

     A waiter walked around the table, filling champagne glasses, and Raven decided to stop worrying and just enjoy a fun evening. Her other boss, a man she admired, had married the love of his life. The band played dance music that had her tapping her foot to the beat.

She picked up the glass and drank the bubbly liquid, aware that she easily got drunk on good champagne. So she nodded when the waiter asked if she wanted a refill and let the music fill her soul. Beside her, Stevie bobbed her head to the familiar chorus of the song while the man on Remy’s other side had engaged him in conversation.

Once they rose to welcome the bride and groom, the band grew louder and Stevie cheered. “Let’s dance!”

Finishing her third glass, Raven put the flute on the table and rose to her feet. “Let’s go!”

Lightheaded in the best way, her mood now high, they made their way to the crowded center of the floor and found an empty space. They shimmied and danced to the music, surrounded by other single women who rocked along with them. After a while, the music slowed, and Raven realized she was thirsty.

She felt his presence before she saw him. A warmth at her back and a firm hand on her waist as Remy turned her toward him. Stevie, Remy noted, had already walked back to their table.

“Dance with me.” It wasn’t a question.

She placed one hand on his shoulder. Before she could do the same with her other, he pulled her against him, winding his arms around her waist. The move forced her to do the same and she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Their bodies came into contact and there was no missing the hard ridge of his erection as they swayed to the music. Her sex pulsed with need and she felt her arousal soak her panties. A low growl reverberated through his chest and she couldn’t deny how much this man got to her.

“You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to feel you in my arms.” His low voice rumbled in her ear. “But you’ve been playing hard to get.”

Tipping her head, she met his gaze. “That’s because I am,” she said, unable to hide her grin.

He laughed and she felt his body shake. “Then it’s a good thing I not only like a challenge, but I’m damn good at getting what I want.”

“Whatever you say, big man.” And he was. To her five-foot-four, he towered over her at over six feet. But wrapped in his arms, she felt protected.

Watch it, Raven. Remember this isn’t meant to get serious.

He splayed his large hand across her bare back and it was all she could do not to moan at the warm, arousing touch.

Telling herself it was just a dance, not a commitment, she placed her head on his shoulder and allowed herself time to just be.

She breathed in deep, taking in his familiar sandalwood and musk scent. Whenever she passed by him at work, she would inhale on purpose, just to get a sniff, he smelled so good. If she had her way, she’d spray it on her pillow and breathe it in all night. No doubt she’d have erotic dreams of him if she did.

“Okay, ladies and gentlemen! Time to take your seats and start dinner,” the band leader said.

The rest of the evening passed quickly with good food, good friends, and a healthy dose of arousal with Remy by her side. He was a total gentleman, talking to the people at their table, but his focus was on her.

After dessert, when she thought she was home free, he rose from his seat and extended a hand. “One last dance,” he said. Again, not a question but an assumption she’d say yes.

And she did, standing, accepting his hand and letting him lead her back to the dance floor. This time, they came together naturally, moving in sync and silence. He held her close, and her body tingled with awareness and her panties were done for.

The band leader announced the last song and they began to play a final fun dance number. Instead of leading her to her seat where her purse was, he pulled her to a corner of the room far from the speakers, instruments, and noise.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

“Nothing. Tonight, everything has been right.” He placed a hand beneath her chin and tilted her head so she met his gaze. “Do you agree?”

She swallowed hard. Looking into his whiskey-colored eyes, she found it impossible to argue. “I do.”

He lowered his head slowly, giving her every opportunity to stop the inevitable, but they’d been building toward this all evening and she wanted this. So much. And then his mouth was on hers, warm, soft, and gentler than she’d imagined he’d be. He moved his lips back and forth, as if savoring their first kiss. Completely on board, she kissed him back, wrapping her arms around his neck and hanging on while he parted her lips and his tongue met hers.

A low groan rumbled through him and she rose onto her toes to take more. She wasn’t sure how long they stood in the corner, wrapped in each other, unaware of anyone or anything else until finally, he braced his hands on her hips and lifted his head.

Oxygen returned to her brain and suddenly she realized what they’d done. A quick glance around told her nobody was watching and she blew out a relieved breath. But even if they’d been caught making out like teenagers, she couldn’t regret the stolen moment.

“That was better than I imagined it would be,” he said, a hazy fog of desire in his gaze.

“And have you imagined us kissing?” She wanted desperately to hear his answer.

“Every night of the week.”

Surprise rippled through her at his reply. She looked at him, expecting his patented, sexy grin. Instead, his expression was serious as he held out his hand. “Come upstairs with me?”

This time he asked, and if anything would break through the walls she tried to keep high, that kiss and giving her a choice had done it. After what she’d been through in the past, telling her they’d dance was one thing. Informing her they’d be going upstairs to his room, quite another.

Remy had proven he was smart enough to read her needs and show he respected her choices. She found that, along with his alpha-like tendencies, hot as hell.

Finally, his question registered. “You booked a room?” She was surprised considering he had an apartment farther downtown.

He shook his head. “But I do have connections.” He winked at her and dammit, she was charmed by him. “And, if you say yes, I sure as hell don’t want to take the time to get my car and drive us to my place.” He reached out to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear.

The brush of his fingertips against her cheek had her trembling and her nipples hardened beneath her flimsy halter dress. The one that didn’t allow her to wear a bra.

“We’d be so good together, Raven.”

Yes. Yes, they would be, she thought, and swayed toward him as he spoke, his deep voice beckoning to her baser instincts.

She’d been fighting her attraction to him for so long, too afraid to get close to him. To anyone, really. But tonight he’d demolished her walls and she’d allowed herself to want something that in the long run, she couldn’t have.

But didn’t she deserve this one night of pleasure?

She couldn’t imagine him wanting more, either. He wasn’t the type of man to flaunt his affairs. In the time since he’d bought into the bar, she’d never seen him with a woman or heard him mention a serious girlfriend. She’d come to the conclusion that he was probably a one-night stand kind of guy, which worked in her favor.

“Raven.”

His gruff voice broke into her thoughts. “Is the decision that difficult?” he asked.

It really wasn’t. She shook her head in reply.

“Is that a yes?” he asked and she nodded.

Before she could process her decision, he grabbed her hand and walked them back to the table so she could retrieve her bag. Although she wanted to say good night to the happy couple, they were surrounded by family with no way for Raven and Remy to get close.

They agreed to make their apologies later and soon he’d led her to the lobby, booked a room, and they’d taken a crowded elevator to the sixteenth floor.

When he’d asked her to come upstairs, she told herself it was one night. One she deserved, since she hadn’t been with any man in way too long and she knew sex with Remy would be incredible.

But as he slid the key card into the door and she heard the click, she was forced to admit there was more going on between them than just sex. He’d kept one hand on her since she’d agreed to join him tonight, maintaining the connection she’d begun to feel on the dance floor and that he’d solidified with a kiss she’d felt down to her toes.

Remy made her feel wanted and that was something sorely lacking in Raven’s life. But as much as she liked the warm, gooey feelings sliding around in her body and her mind, she warned herself that all she could have was this one night. So she intended to make the most of it.

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JUST ONE MORE DARE (The Sterling Family Book 2)

Coming September 17th (or sooner)

A runaway bride. 
Her older brother’s off-limits friend. 
Taking one more shot at love should be easy, right?
Not on a dare.

Samantha Dare had one thought when she found out her fiancé was a lyingcheater. Escape. So, she ran from her wedding…straight into the arms of the man who once gave her the hottest kiss of her life. But rebounding with her brother’s friend would be a huge mistake…wouldn’t it? 

The last thing Dex Sterling needed was more chaos in his life. Retiring from football and starting over in broadcasting gave him plenty of that. But even though Samantha is chaos personified, for some reason, he’s still not able to keep his mind—or hands—off her…

Is a little bit of forced proximity and a lot of sexual chemistry enough to earn them a second chance at happily ever after? 

Samantha and Dex are about to find out…

Just One More Dare, book 2 in the Sterling Family series, is a light, spicy, best friend’s little sister/forbidden, contemporary sports romance that can be read as a standalone. Download today and get ready to fall for the youngest Dare and the man of her dreams!

For long-time readers: Yes, that Samantha Dare! Yes, you will see Ian Dare!

For new to me readers: A stand-alone story of two people with a history of attraction.

Book InfoAvailable at Carly’s BookstoreEbookPrintPreorder from other retailersKindleAmazon PrintNookB&N PrintApple BooksKoboGoogle PlayAudio info coming soon!AudibleAmazon

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It’s Giveaway Time

As you know Just One More Moment is releasing on March 12, 2024, and to celebrate I want to give away something a little special!

Enter for your chance to win a gorgeous lavender purple Coach Bag, a signed copy of Just One More Moment + surprise Carly goodies!

Enter Here:

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Just One More Moment – The Sterling Family (The Kingstons cont.) #1 – A billionaire, workplace, friends-to-lovers romance with a possessive, hot, protective alpha hero.
Pre-order your copy now!!

Carly Store

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Read Chapter One & Two Here Chapter Three!

Zach never expected the girl he’d once loved to walk into his bar. The last time he’d seen Mia Stevens, he’d dropped her off after school and the next time he planned to see her was when he picked her up for prom the next night. Except when he’d shown up in a rented limousine, dressed in his tuxedo, and holding a wrist corsage, no one answered the door.

Odd, considering Mia had a baby sister and her stepmother was usually home. The neighbors had seen him knocking on the door and come out to tell him the house had been unusually quiet all day.

It turned out, Mia and her family were gone for good. She’d ghosted him not just for prom, which was humiliating enough, but for all the things they’d planned for the future. Zach had done his best to search for her online and when he came up empty, he honed his computer and hacking skills to dig even deeper. Nothing had ever turned up.

Zach drew a deep breath and pushed off the chair, preparing himself to confront her for the first time.

“Zach,” Remy said, placing a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t know who she is or what’s going on but you look pissed. Maybe I should handle this –”

He shook his head. “I’ve got it.”

Remy released his grip but stayed close behind as Zach strode to the entrance.

Mia hadn’t taken a step into the bar, obviously waiting for his reaction. She looked good. Older, obviously, but just as gorgeous, despite being tired, as evidenced by the dark circles beneath her blue eyes. She was still his fresh-faced girl. Her freckles were more pronounced, her brown hair was longer, and though she wore little makeup, her pouty lips still begged to be kissed.

Fuck. She wasn’t his, hadn’t been in years, and wouldn’t be again.

He scrubbed a hand over his face. “It’s been a long time, Mia.”

She jerked and shook her head. “It’s Hadley, now.” Her voice had the same, husky quality he remembered.

He narrowed his gaze at the name change.

“And this is my little sister, Danika.”

It had been Danielle, he thought, remembering her baby sister. Danika. Another name change.

“It’s Dani.” The teenager with a pink streak in the front of her hair crossed her arms over her chest and stared at him. From her lack of shyness to the bold hair choice, she was both more outgoing and more of a rebel than her sister had been.

“Hey, Dani,” he said.

She looked from Zach to her sister, her nose scrunched as she watched them.

“Zach, I know this must be a shock but can we talk?” Mia – Hadley, he mentally corrected himself, asked.

As much as he wanted to hug her tight, feel her body against his and ask where she’d been all these years, he wouldn’t give her the satisfaction of showing any emotion.

Whatever answers she held, she’d opted to keep to herself for the last decade. He hadn’t been hard to find and she could have come to see him long before now.

Her leaving had been a shock followed by embarrassment when he’d had to face the kids in his class, but her ongoing silence had devastated him. He wouldn’t fall at her feet in gratitude she’d shown up now.

“Sorry, but we’re closed for a private party.” He gestured with a tip of his head toward where his family gathered in the main dining area. “You can show yourselves out.”

Her eyes opened wide, flashing with hurt before she banked the emotion.

Forcing himself not to react or show he cared, he turned, intending to walk away, aware of Remy’s disapproving stare. His friend didn’t have a clue who Mia – Hadley – whatever she called herself had been to him. Although since he’d confided in Remy one drunken night, his friend might be figuring things out.

“This is the guy you said would help us?” he heard Dani ask in a sarcastic voice. He paused mid-step. “Good job, sis.”

“Be quiet,” Hadley hissed. “You have no idea what happened between us.”

“So, he’s not the boyfriend you had and the prom date you had to ditch when dad screwed –”

Dani’s voice cut off.

“We’ll discuss how you know about that later,” Hadley warned the teenager.

He looked over his shoulder to see her hand covering her sister’s mouth and he bit the inside of his cheek in an attempt not to laugh. The kid had spunk and though Hadley was probably used to dealing with her, the flush in her cheeks revealed Dani had embarrassed her.

Zach blew out a breath and forced himself to pivot back to them. Dani had had him at the word help. Saving women was his weakness, for reasons that began with his mother and the way her life came to a tragic end.

But he couldn’t bring himself to make this easy on Hadley. “Fine. Let’s talk.” His tone was deliberately cool.

She glanced at her sister. “Go sit at a table. I want to talk to Zach in private. I’ll come back for you in a few minutes.”

Zach glanced at Remy. “Can you get Dani a menu and let her order whatever she wants?” The cook had come in today for Leah’s party and would be happy to whip up whatever the teenager wanted.

Remy nodded. “Come on, kid. We’ve got milkshakes, burgers and anything else you want to eat.”

“Sweet. I’m starving. We’ve been eating crap since we left –”

Hadley managed an impressive eye roll at the same time she slapped a hand over her sister’s mouth. Again. “Go eat and do not talk.”

Remy chuckled and Dani rushed for a table near the kitchen.

Hadley shook her head and grinned as she watched her sister go. “That kid is a handful,” she muttered but Zach saw the love in her eyes and it caused an unwilling tug on his heart.

“Let’s go to my office where we won’t be interrupted.” He extended his arm in the right direction, grateful his family was occupied with the party girl and her presents in another area of the bar.

Hadley – it was going to take time to get used to calling her by that name – nodded and walked ahead of him to the hallway where his office was located.

He’d had years for his anger and hurt to build but he couldn’t deny his curiosity about her was still strong. And as she walked to his office, her ass swaying in tight black jeans, he was forced to acknowledge that relief wasn’t the only thing he felt upon seeing her again.

#

Nerves fluttered in Hadley’s stomach as she walked through the bar to Zach’s office. The décor she passed appeared old-looking by design with dark distressed wood tables and chairs, and graffiti, hand-painted art on the walls.

Walking into Zach’s office, she looked around, seeing if she could glean any information about the man he’d grown to be. The area was neat with a plain wood-styled desk that could be found in any office supply store and an executive-style leather chair. On the white walls hung family pictures but none were Zach’s relatives, at least none she remembered meeting in the past. But everyone had grown up and changed, including her.

“Have a seat.” He gestured to one of two open-arm guest chairs across from the desk.

She lowered herself into a chair. “Who are all those people in the pictures?”

“Happy clients,” he said, not elaborating further. “And we’re not here to talk about me. What did Dani mean by you need help?” He perched himself on the edge of his desk, leaning away from her. The emotional walls he’d erected couldn’t be higher, not that she blamed him.

She’d gone over what to say to him during their many hours on the road, but now that she was here, all her ideas disappeared. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, but her gaze cataloged the changes in him instead.

He wore a solid black t-shirt and his muscles were evident below the short sleeve. His chest was broad, his body obviously tight and built. He was all facial scruff and his attitude screamed alpha bad-boy, which begged the question. Where had her lean computer geek gone?

“I’m waiting?” His gruff voice startled her and she jumped.

Right. He wanted her story, not for her to sit and ogle him. “Maybe I should start with why I left all those years ago,” she said, blurting out the first thing that came to mind.

He folded his arms across his chest and somehow those biceps bulged even more. “How about you start with why you’re here now, instead? No need to revisit the past.”

She closed her eyes and sighed. Perhaps she’d misjudged how difficult he’d be. “Fine. My father is in trouble with some very bad people. I know that sounds like a line from a cheesy movie but it’s true. One of them approached me by my car after work and said to tell my father if he didn’t cooperate, they’d take me or Dani instead.”

Zach’s gorgeous indigo eyes narrowed. “Go on.”

She swallowed hard. “After he threatened me, the guy left. I got into my car and drove home.” She curled her fingers around her handbag until her nails dug into her palms. “As soon as I walked into the house, my father told me to pack up, take Dani, and run.”

She met Zach’s gaze, hoping to see some form of understanding only to find a stoic mask of indifference. He’d never been cold to her before and despite expecting it, his attitude hurt.

“How did you find me?” he asked. “Actually, scratch that since I already know the answer. I wasn’t the one who left. A simple Google search would have shown you my location.”

God, she’d hurt him and the knowledge twisted inside her.

“Why come to me for help?”

Her heart pounded painfully in her chest. If she didn’t convince him to help her, she didn’t know where she’d go or what to do.

She ran a hand through her hair with a shaking hand. “I read the article your sister-in-law wrote about her ordeal last year. How you were responsible for finding the former senator’s wife after she’d attempted to run over Winter with her car. I also read the follow-up about all the families who were indebted to you for what you’d done for them.”

She glanced at the photos on the walls again and the pieces fell into place. “They all sent you these.” Looking at the good he’d done, warmth filled her up inside, and she was awed by his second occupation. Finding missing people wouldn’t always have a happy ending and he did it anyway. “I always knew you’d do great things.”

“Don’t.” He bit out the harsh word and she flinched.

He pushed himself off the desk and paced around the room in silence.

She wondered if he was trying to find a way to say no or if he was attempting to come up with a plan. She hoped it was the latter.

“You need protection,” he said at last. “A place to stay where your sister is safe and so are you.” It wasn’t a question.

She blew out a long breath and nodded. “Yes. My father asked me to pick up a burner phone and call his disposable one so he’d have my untraceable number. He’ll let us know when it’s safe to return.”

Closing her eyes, she sighed. “If it’s ever safe. But right now I can’t worry about that. I need a short-term solution while I figure out what to do next. I can’t stay in a hotel because I can’t show my license or use my credit cards and they always want to have one on file. I do have some prepaid ones but I’d rather save them for food and emergencies.”

Zach stopped pacing and leveled his gaze on hers, as if trying to figure her out.

“You know an awful lot about disappearing without a trace,” he muttered, affirming her thought.

She rose to her feet, prepared for an argument but before she could remind him he hadn’t wanted an explanation, he spoke.

“How did you get here?”

“I drove my car. It’s parked behind the bar.”

“Is it a newer model?” he asked.

She shook her head. “No.” She couldn’t control the laugh at the thought of her old vehicle. “Not even close.”

Zach had come from a wealthy family but Hadley was the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. It had been a miracle his parents never gave him a hard time for dating her. Not that she knew of, anyway and they’d always been kind.

“Good.” He nodded in approval. “And you never bought a GPS tracking device?”

This time her laugh was even louder. “No, if someone was stupid enough to steal that car, I’d say good riddance and pray I never saw it again.”

His gaze caught hers and the first signs of a smirk lifted his lips as they shared an amused smile. She felt a small sense of victory until he caught himself and smoothed out his expression.

“Let’s go.”

“Where?” she asked as he turned and started for the door without answering.

She rolled her eyes, sick of his attitude.

Before Zach could exit, a knock sounded and the door opened.

 The man who stood behind Zach earlier stepped inside. “Just making sure you’re both in one piece,” he said with a grin she’d have found sexy if she wasn’t still so drawn to Zach and the bad boy he’d obviously become. “I’m Remy Sterling. Zach’s partner,” he said before Zach could perform any introductions. Assuming he even wanted her to meet his friends.

“Hadley Stevens,” she said softly. It was up to Zach to explain who she was – rather, had been to him.

“We were just coming out to discuss some things. Is my family still here?” Zach asked.

Remy’s lips lifted in a huge grin. “They sure are and asking where you disappeared to. Dani was only too happy to fill them in.” He glanced at her and winked.

“Eyes on me, asshole,” Zach muttered.

Her lips parted in surprise.

“Not so fun when the shoe’s on the other foot, is it?” Remy asked. “Try and remember that next time you’re flirting with Raven.”

Hadley had no idea what the byplay between them was about but she wondered. Who was Raven? And what was that sudden jealous knot in her stomach?

“I’ll let them all know you’re coming out.” As Remy turned and walked out, his words finally registered.

“Your family is here?” He’d said the restaurant was closed for a private party but she hadn’t thought about who it was for.

“It’s my niece’s birthday. Nick and his wife are having Leah’s party here.” Zach grimaced. No doubt at the thought of dealing with all the Dares.

How would she face them again? No doubt they were as angry at her for disappearing as their brother was.

Could things get any more difficult? Hadley stifled the urge to cry in frustration.

“Come on. Might as well get this over with.” Zach opened the door and walked into the hall, leaving her to follow him.

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Chapters One & Two

He’s the last single Dare sibling standing.
She’s his lost love who disappeared.
Now she’s back, bringing secrets and danger.

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Chapter One

Hadley Stevens loved her job but late spring always turned high school kids into restless, hormonal savages thanks to being stuck inside a stuffy brick building seven hours a day, five days a week. They were so close to summer freedom, even she could relate to their restless spirits.

The sun shone overhead as she walked to her car. Coworkers also strode to their vehicles and Hadley knew without asking they were all grateful it was the second to last Friday of the school year. It helped that the weather was warm, even for mid-June in Braxton, Illinois, giving everyone an extra pep in their step. Hadley had no plans for the weekend beyond reading and relaxing, and if the weather stayed nice, she would sit outside and chill.

The house she lived in with her father, Gregg, and thirteen-year-old sister, Danika, had a small patio in the backyard where Hadley always found peace. No doubt some of this weekend would include shuffling Dani to and from a friend’s house, too, something Hadley didn’t mind at all.

She approached her car, key fob in hand when a man strode up beside her, his shadow blocking the sun.

“Hadley Stevens.” He said her name in a low voice.

She stiffened and looked up, recognizing him immediately. He was one of the sleazy men who’d been meeting with her father in their home most evenings, hanging out in their family room, and eyeing her just-developing thirteen-year-old sister with lust-filled eyes. Their perversion scared Hadley to no end and she always kept Dani within arms reach until the men left.

“What do you want?” Hadley slid her finger over the alarm on her key fob.

He grasped her wrist tight enough to bruise. “Don’t. Hear me out and nobody has to get hurt.” He slid his jacket aside, revealing a holstered gun.

Shaking now, she straightened her shoulders and refused to show more fear. “I’m listening.”

“Tell your father if he doesn’t do what we asked, we’ll take you and your pretty little sister as payment instead.” Releasing her wrist, he strode off, mixing in with the male and female teachers in the lot.

Trembling, she could barely unlock her car door and when she finally climbed inside, she jammed her finger against the door-lock button four times before she convinced herself she was safe.

Dani, she thought, her stomach twisting in knots. She had to get home to her sister. The plan calmed her down enough to drive but the past she’d been told to forget crashed through her mind for the duration of the fifteen-minute trip.

Hadley had just come home from shopping with a friend for last-minute makeup and hair clips for her boyfriend’s prom night. She’d been high on life and excited to be his date for the senior prom. He didn’t care that she was a junior. She and Zach Dare had been friends for years and a couple for almost eight months. And she planned to give him her virginity on prom night.

Except there’d been no prom. Not for her. And probably not for Zach, either. When Hadley had walked into her house that day eleven years ago, she’d been greeted by her father and the federal agents who’d relocated them that night, changing her name, her identity and altering the course of her life forever. She was sure Zach hated her for abandoning him without a word and did her best not to think about the cute boy she thought she’d loved.

Now, as she approached the home where she’d lived since being uprooted from everything and everyone she knew, that same gut-churning feeling returned. She already knew her father had gotten involved with the wrong people again but this time, she doubted they’d have government protection to keep her and Dani safe.

She pulled into the driveway, relieved to find it empty with no other cars on the street. It didn’t mean the men weren’t inside the house, but it gave her some hope. She glanced at the small home and though the white paint was chipped in places, she’d done her best to keep the grounds pretty by planting flowers and bulbs that bloomed yearly.

She pulled her car into the garage beside her father’s vehicle and tapped the button to close the electric door behind her. Still shaking, she walked inside and paused to listen. It was quiet. She didn’t hear men’s voices and Dani wasn’t blasting loud music. Knowing her sister, she was probably using earbuds and destroying her hearing instead.

Hadley rushed through the hall and into the kitchen to find her father pacing back and forth across the small area.

“Dad? What did you do?”

“Hadley!” He spun around, his dark hair, newly threaded with gray, an unruly mess. He made it worse when he ran his hand through the too-long strands. His face was drawn and pale, the lines around his eyes and mouth more pronounced. “I’ve been waiting for you to get home from work.”

She narrowed her gaze. “One of the guys who hangs out here just cornered me by my car at school. He said if he couldn’t get what he wanted out of you, he’d take me and Dani as payment instead. What did you get involved in this time?”

“Fuck!” He picked up the cookie jar where she kept Dani’s lunch money and threw it against the wall, shattering the ceramic and causing a dent in the plaster.

She flexed her fingers, her palms damp from her hard grip on the steering wheel, and her wrist throbbed from where the man had gripped her hard enough to leave bruises.

After placing her heavy tote bag on the kitchen table, she drew a deep breath, preparing herself for whatever disaster was coming.

Then she turned to face her too-silent father.

He rubbed his hands over his bloodshot eyes. “I’m in trouble, baby girl.” He only called her that when he was feeling guilty about something. “I need you to take your sister and go,” he said, his gruff, demanding words shocking her.

She’d known he was in trouble but sending them away? “What are you saying?”

He placed his hands on her shoulders and looked into her eyes. “Get your sister from her room, pack a bag, and leave. Now. Drive far and fast.”

Processing his words was impossible. “But…”

He shook his head, his eyes wild. “There’s no time. Hurry up.”

She nodded, and just like when she was sixteen, Hadley went on autopilot. She rushed upstairs and knocked on her sister’s door. Receiving no answer, she opened it and found Dani with earbuds on while tapping away on her laptop, unaware everything was about to change.

Hadley stepped up to the bed, catching her sister’s attention.

Dani yanked out her earbuds and grinned. “Hey, Hads. What’s up?”

Hadley managed a smile at the nickname that Dani had used since she was a toddler. It had taken Hadley years not to think of herself as Mia Roberts, her given name, the person she’d been prior to entering WITSEC thanks to her father. Mia, a name Dani had never heard anyone call her since she’d been a baby when they’d been forced to disappear.

“Can you shut that down?” Hadley pointed to the laptop. “We need to talk.” And she didn’t want any of Dani’s friends who might be listening on Facetime overhearing.

Hadley had already decided to be honest with her sister. Dani was a smart, wise-for-her-years kid. She already knew neither of her parents were the most upstanding citizens nor did they associate with decent people. It was Hadley who kept Dani’s life as normal as possible.

Dani closed the laptop cover and leaned forward. “What’s wrong?”

“I need you to listen carefully,” Hadley said, as she sat down on the mattress.

“You’re scaring me.” Dani’s green eyes were wide with fear and Hadley hated her father for forcing her to put that emotion there.

She had no way to soften the blow, either. “Dad got himself into serious trouble. You and I can’t stay here. It’s not safe and we need to leave.”

“What?” Dani asked, her body jerking, her voice raised.

“I’ll explain more in the car but right now, pack as much as you can fit in your rolling suitcase and backpack and meet me in the kitchen. I need to go do the same thing.”

Blinking fast, Dani shook her head. “Wait. For how long because I have so many fun things planned for the last week of school and Amy’s having a party next weekend!”

Hadley winced, aware of how her sister felt, knowing she’d miss out on things that seemed so big in her young life. She felt the same when she missed going to with Zach. And once Dani realized they were probably going to be gone for a long time, that pain and disappointment would only get worse.

“I’m going to treat you like an adult and be one hundred percent honest. I don’t know how long we’ll be gone but I will find a way to make it up to you. Right now, just pack, please,” she said, hoping just this once, Dani’s teenage stubbornness wouldn’t kick in.

Dani shook her head. “But mom said she was coming over tonight and I need to be here.”

Hadley gritted her teeth, doing her best not to show her aggravation at the mention of Dani’s selfish, drug-addict mother.

Hadley’s mom died in a car accident when she was thirteen. Instead of staying home with his grieving daughter, her father, Ray, immediately began hitting the bars at night. It wasn’t long before he met, hooked up with, then knocked up Patrice Munson. He moved his pregnant girlfriend into the house where Hadley’s mom had lived. Patrice hadn’t been interested in helping and Hadley, in between schoolwork and her part-time job, did everyone’s share of housework and cooking.

Dani was a year old when the feds moved them as a family to a small town in Illinois. And that sent a bored, miserable Patrice into a drug-induced spiral, leaving Hadley to care for Dani just as she had been prior to the move. Ultimately, Patrice lost custody due to her neglect and she only saw Dani because their father allowed it, as long as he or Hadley was home to supervise.

“Hads?” Dani’s voice shook Hadley out of her stupor and put her squarely back in reality. Was it any wonder she’d escaped into her memories, even if it had meant revisiting a shitty past?

“What? I didn’t catch what you said.” Hadley looked at her sister.

Dani rolled her eyes. “I said, can we please leave after I see mom?”

Hadley sighed. “You saw your mom last night.” And it was unusual for Patrice to show up two days in a row, let alone all that often. Hadley doubted she’d be returning tonight, disappointing Dani yet again. But she wasn’t going to fight with her sister by bringing up the truth about her mom.

“We’ll figure out what to do about seeing your mother again but right now, we need to go.” Hadley walked to the closet and pulled out Dani’s suitcase. “Come on, now. Get packing.”

Ignoring the half-yell, half-whine from her sister, Hadley rushed to her room, retrieved her suitcase, and began to throw things in without thinking.

She dumped her entire underwear drawer into the suitcase, along with some casual clothes, hearing the thump of her diary. A habit she’d kept up from her teenage years. Putting her feelings on paper helped clear her mind.

Nothing could give her that clarity now, as she wondered what she could possibly tell the school district about her sudden leave. She needed an excuse that wouldn’t jeopardize her Teacher Loan Forgiveness or get her fired for bailing on them with no warning the last week of the year. At least she had until Monday morning to think of something.

After she packed, Hadley shut her bedroom door. She walked to her closet and knelt, grateful that ever since their middle-of-the-night move, she’d thought ahead. Beneath three shoe boxes, she pulled out a fourth and opened the top. Inside she had a secret stash. A mix of cash and prepaid Visa and Master cards she’d saved over the years. She couldn’t say she’d anticipated this moment but something inside her knew she needed to prepare just in case.

She stuffed everything into the inside lining of her everyday tote, hooked the bag on her shoulder, and dragged the suitcase to the kitchen. She passed Dani’s room on the way and a quick glance confirmed her sister was packing like she was supposed to.

In the kitchen, her father sat at the table, his head in his hands. The shattered jar still lay on the floor, and it took everything in her not to act on habit by getting the broom and cleaning up his mess.

“Dad?” she asked when he didn’t look up.

He rose from his seat and walked over to where she stood. “Take this.” He shoved cash in her hand. “Don’t use your credit cards. They’re traceable.”

As if she hadn’t learned that lesson from the female agent who’d accompanied them here when she was sixteen. Hadley glanced back at the destroyed cookie jar and realized he’d gathered up the spare fives and singles she’d stuffed inside.

From the look and feel of the bundle, he’d added more but as she flipped through the pile, her heart sank at the small denomination of the bills. He didn’t know she had access to untraceable money, yet this wasn’t enough to get by, and her disappointment in him somehow grew.

“This won’t even cover a motel. Not if we want to eat. I need more. Is there anything else in the house?” she asked, pushing him because she would eventually need access to more funds.

“I’m here,” a sullen Dani said at the same time her father shook his head.

Hadley turned as her sister shuffled into the room. Her backpack hung over one shoulder and she dragged her suitcase behind her. She’d put on a baseball cap and her long hair hung in braids on either side of her head. The front strand she’d dyed pink covered one eye and she glared at them through the other. Looking at her now, no one would realize how beautiful the teen really was.

Their father moved close and pulled Dani into a long hug. “I’ll see you soon. I promise.” He met Hadley’s gaze over Dani’s head, seeming to beg her to make this easier.

He couldn’t even handle the goodbye like a man.

“Dani, why don’t you meet me in my car? I parked it in the garage. I’ll be right out.”

The teenager held onto her father for a few seconds longer, enough time for Hadley’s anger at their dad to grow. Every time she thought he’d hit his lowest in her estimation, he dug the hole deeper.

Dani released him and looked at Hadley, and she forced a wink at her sister. “It’ll be a fun road trip. I promise.” Too bad she couldn’t cross her fingers behind her back at the lie.

She didn’t know what awaited them any more than she knew where they’d go. “Do me a favor and get the sunglasses I left on my dresser.” Hadley wanted a minute with her father. “Once we settled in the car you can pick the music you want to listen to,” she said, already cringing at the certainty of loud sound to add to her pounding head.

Once Dani stomped out, Hadley spun around. “I can’t believe you did this to her. To us. Again. Don’t you ever learn?” She didn’t ask him what kind of trouble he was in. The less she knew, the safer she would be.

He hung his head and sighed but didn’t answer, which was a good thing. Nothing he said would make any difference.

“Take Dani somewhere safe,” he muttered. “And don’t tell me where you end up, either.”

Of course. Because if he didn’t know their whereabouts and those dangerous people came after him, he couldn’t reveal their location. Regardless of what they did to him to extract information. She shuddered and nausea threatened.

“I’m sure my calls are being traced,” he continued in a monotone but urgent voice. “There’s a burner number on a piece of paper stuffed in with the money. Once you’re settled, get one for yourself and ring me once so I have your number. That way I can let you know when it’s safe to come home.”

If it was ever safe, she thought, not saying the words aloud.

He had tears in his eyes but she was in a mixed state of shock, anger, and disbelief, too stunned by the sudden upheaval to feel bad for him. He’d caused this mess.

“I’m sorry.” He pulled her into a hug.

One she forced herself to return because a part of her feared this might be the last time she saw her father.

“Go, baby girl.”

She stepped back and nodded. “Bye, Dad.”

Chapter Two

For the first twenty minutes of the ride Dani was silent, giving Hadley time to think. Too bad she hadn’t come up with a destination when Dani finally spoke.

“Are we taking a plane? I’ve never been on an airplane.” She sounded excited which was better than the angry quiet of before.

Hadley shook her head. “We can’t. We’d have to show our IDs and I don’t want a footprint, digital or otherwise.” God, she was repeating the FBI’s words verbatim. She supposed there were some things one never forgot.

She slid her gaze to the passenger seat. Dani had scrunched her nose, then nodded. “I get it. I’ve seen that show called FBI on television. What’s the plan then?”

Hadley glanced at her gas tank and sighed. She hadn’t anticipated a long trip. “Let’s hit the next rest stop and load up on snack food. That’ll get us by until I’m tired and we can find a motel for the night.”

From there, she’d decide where to go next but for now, she was headed east. It was as good a route as any and ironically, she was driving in the direction of New York City and the town where she’d grown up. And the boy, now a man, she’d never forgotten. She wondered if Zach ever thought of her and if so, if he’d forgiven her disappearance? She shook off that thought and focused on the present.

She pulled into a rest stop and filled the car with gas, then parked. She and Dani walked into the store.

Knowing she had to keep her sister happy during this trip, Hadley extended a hand, gesturing to the aisles of chips, candy, soda, and other food. “Load up. And I know you’re not a kid but let’s both try and use the restroom. It’ll save us having to stop again until we’re ready to pull over for the night.”

“Love the reverse psychology, sis. But I’m still going to roll my eyes and tell you I’d know if I had to pee.”

Hadley rolled hers right back. “Try anyway.”

A little while later, they were in a long line for the register with a basket full of junk food and drinks, waiting to get their items rung up so she could pay. Dani seemed engrossed in her phone, bopping her head in time to music Hadley could hear above the earbuds.

She glanced around and her gaze came to rest on one of the few magazines on the endcap rack. The cover photo was a punch to her already painful emotions. A photo of Harrison Dare and his siblings at the Cannes Film Festival for a movie premiere stared back at her. The entire Dare family was in the shot, including Zach, and Hadley’s knees went weak at the sight of him for the first time in years.

Since being forced to leave the first time, she hadn’t looked him up online because she knew it would be too painful to see him on social media. Not that she’d allowed herself to have a profile of her own. She’d taken every word the feds said to heart. She had no intention of exposing her family, even by mistake. There were people who’d recognize Hadley so she remained as hidden as she could. No one from the past would know Dani, enabling her sister to have all the social media apps along with her friends.

The line ahead of her moved slowly and her gaze drifted back to Zach’s handsome face. No longer a boy, he was all man, and mouth-wateringly handsome. She skimmed the article and discovered that like his siblings, Zach was wealthy and recently famous, thanks to a news article about him that had gone viral. He’d been the person who found the stalker terrorizing Harrison’s then-pregnant girlfriend and turning her whereabouts over to the police.

Since Winter Capwell was a reporter, she’d published a story about her ordeal that every news outlet had picked up. A second article followed, this one about Zach and all the people who’d contacted Winter to rave about how he’d helped reunite them with missing family members.

He also owned two bars, one in Manhattan, another in East Hampton. But his side business was finding people who had disappeared, and until the viral news story, he’d done it quietly and under the radar. She blinked as the solution to her own problems came to her. Zach was the perfect person to help her keep Dani safe and though he might not want to see Hadley ever again, she needed him.

And based on what she read about him, Zach Dare would never turn away someone in danger. Especially a young teen and Hadley was more worried about her sister than herself.

“Next!” The cashier called out.

Hadley had been slowly shuffling forward, her focus on the magazine and learning about Zach, but she hadn’t realized it was her turn. Dani was still bopping her head to the music, making Hadley grin despite their circumstances.

She unloaded the food from the basket and waited as the woman behind the counter rang up the total and bagged the items.

At the last second, Hadley cleared her throat. “Can you add this please?” She handed over the magazine. If she was lucky, there would be information about Zach inside. Regardless, she now had a photo of him to look at later and prepare herself to see him again.

She paid and they walked back to the car. Dani pulled her earbuds out. “I saw you buy that magazine. Why?”

God, the teenager missed nothing. “There’s an article in it I want to read. And I decided where we’re headed.” She might as well tell her sister the new plan. “We’re going to New York City.”

“Really? What’s in the city?”

“Someone I think can help us,” she said as they reached the car and together put the bags into the back seat.

Once they were resettled in the front, Dani buckled her seatbelt and Hadley did the same.

“So, who’s this person? Old boyfriend?” Dani asked.

Hadley choked on her own saliva and began to cough. She wiped her tears and turned to her sister with a narrowed gaze. “What makes you say that?”

“Oops. Mom slipped and told me she met dad in Manhattan. That we used to live in a town nearby but we had to move to Illinois when I was a baby.”

Hadley couldn’t believe Patrice could be so careless. Then again… yes, she could. “That doesn’t explain the boyfriend comment.”

Dani shrugged. “Just a guess.”

A too lucky one, Hadley thought. Before she could press her sister, Dani shoved the earbuds back into her ears and cranked up the volume.

Happy for the opportunity to put some quiet music on so she could think as she drove, Hadley decided not to yell about the decibel level. Her new plan involved finding a decent motel that took cash and wouldn’t insist on seeing her license. No small feat.

She would also have to stop at a public library in Illinois so she could look up the name of Zach’s bars. That way nobody could trace her. Once she had the phone number, she’d call and ask to speak to Zach, hoping that would tell her which bar she should go to first.

She planned to hang up before he answered. The first time she spoke to Zach in eleven years had to happen in person and she needed the element of surprise on her side. Maybe then he’d be so happy to see her again, he wouldn’t throw her out before she had a chance to explain her sudden disappearance.

#

Zach Dare sat on a barstool, watching in amusement as his niece, Leah, ripped open her birthday gifts with all the exuberance of a seven-year-old. He was surprised her accompanying squeals hadn’t yet shattered someone’s eardrums. The good news of the day was she’d had a party for just her friends last weekend and though Zach had stopped by, he hadn’t had to deal with all the kids running around and shrieking. Because why speak when yelling was so much fun?

Leah’s father and Zach’s brother, Nick, hushed her while stuffing the wrapping paper into a big garbage bag, trying his best to keep up with the mess. Nick’s wife, Aurora, held their ten-month-old daughter, Ellie, on her lap while writing down who brought each present. The rest of his massive family gathered around, talking and laughing with their significant others, their children and various family friends.

Zach strode over to Remy, his longtime friend and more recently, his business partner. Last year, Remy had retired from his position as a New York City detective and bought into both of Zach’s businesses. Together they ran two bars, one in the city and the other in East Hampton, along with a private investigation business.

But there was more to Remy than being a former cop. He kept a low profile but Remington Sterling was one of The Sterlings, a family with old-money wealth thanks to a financial equity firm going back generations and real estate holdings all over Manhattan. But like Zach, Remy was wealthy in his own right thanks to a joint venture that had begun back in their college days.

“Hey,” Zach said to his friend.

Remy looked up from the iPad he’d been viewing. “Hi. The birthday girl looks like she’s having fun. Sounds like it too,” he said with a grin.

“Thanks for shutting the restaurant so my family could have a party for Leah,” Zach said.

“She calls me Uncle Remy. How could I say no?” Remy asked, chuckling.

Zach grinned. “She does know how to wrap the men of the family around her finger, doesn’t she?”

His friend laughed.

“Drink?” Zach walked behind the bar to get himself a soda.

“Diet.”

Using the fountain gun, he filled two glasses and slid one across the bar.

He lifted the other for himself and walked back to a stool, taking a seat beside Remy. He faced the alcohol bottles lined up on shelves which were bolted into the wall behind the bar. His family’s Dirty Dare brand of spirits took up most of the space and Zach was damned proud. Both of his siblings, their lives and careers, as well as his own.

He took a gulp from his glass, wishing he’d remembered to grab straws.

“So how was your date last night?” Remy asked.

At the question, Zach choked on his soda. “There was no date,” he managed to say as he wiped his eyes, which had watered from swallowing wrong.

An attractive bar regular had invited him out to dinner. “I said no, remember? She’s not my type,” he muttered. But she had been pushy and hadn’t liked being turned down.

Remy took a long sip of his drink. “While we’re discussing your type, quit hitting on Raven,” he said of the woman who’d been a server at the New York City location for a couple of years.

Raven had seen the Help Wanted sign in the window, walked into the bar and handed him two references. One had been from a restaurant where she’d waitressed, the other from a bar where she’d mixed drinks and served. After Zach verified her references, he’d rented her the apartment upstairs and hired her as a server.

She’d provided excellent service to the customers and had become an invaluable employee and friend. She was so good that after Remy had become his partner, and they’d opened a second location in East Hampton last year, they’d promoted Raven to manager. Remy held down the fort in Manhattan and Zach managed the Hamptons location.

Not once in the years she’d worked for him had Zach considered sleeping with her. It was Remy who had desired her from the second they’d met.

“Relax. Banter is our thing,” Zach reminded him. Whatever Raven’s hang-ups about getting involved with Remy, Zach was no threat.

“As long as you remember Raven isn’t your type either,” Remy muttered.

“I’m not interested in her and she sure as hell isn’t attracted to me,” he told his friend, realizing his behavior had gotten under his pal’s skin.

Remy nodded. “Yeah. It’s just… something’s bothering her and she’s not letting me in.”

Zach thought about his New York manager. Something might be off. She’d normally want to oversee a private party, especially one for his or Remy’s family, but she’d asked if she could sit this one out. Since Raven pretty much made her own hours, as she did the scheduling for the staff, and was rarely not at work, of course he’d said yes. She said she wasn’t feeling well and he’d believed her. But… Remy knew her best.

“Try turning on the charm and if that doesn’t work, sit her down and insist you want to know what’s going on.” Zach attempted to give his friend advice on his love life but other than his siblings’ recent relationships and marriages, Zach had little of his own adult experiences to draw from.

One night stands? Yeah, those he could do. Relationships meant exposing too much of himself and he wouldn’t go there again.

Remy ran a hand through his too-long hair. Once he’d left the force, he’d gone overboard in growing out his hair and beard. A fuck you to the rules he’d been subjected to as a cop. “I’ll think about it,” he muttered.

Zach decided a subject change was in order. “Okay so… since you’ve mentioned it twice, just what is my type?” He was curious what his friend thought considering Remy had never seen Zach with a woman more than once or twice.

Remy smirked at the question. “If I had to describe her, I would say she’s understated but beautiful, has ample curves but isn’t overly voluptuous.” He drummed his fingers on the counter as he continued to think.

Meanwhile, Zach couldn’t believe Remy had nailed Zach’s ideal woman. The one perfect female who’d had his heart back when he’d believed settling down was in his future. God, he’d been young. And stupid.

The sound of Remy slurping the end of his drink pulled Zach out of his musings.

“In other words,” Remy said, “She’s the opposite of anyone I’ve ever seen you with. Someone like… her.” He pointed towards the bar’s entrance before turning back to Zach – who spun to face the door.

He took one look at the woman standing with her hand on a teenager’s shoulder and felt the blood drain from his face. He blinked, certain he was mistaken. He must be imagining her because Remy had been spot-on in his description and Zach had been trying not to remember too much about her.

Remy stood up beside him. “What’s wrong? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

He slammed a hand down and curled a spare napkin into a wrinkled ball. “That’s because I fucking have.”

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Hi, all. Wondering what comes after The Kingstons?

More in their world. (Hint. You met Remy in Just One Fling and you’ll see more of him in Just One Tease). But there is so much more to him than meets the eye! And remember, every book I write is a stand-alone!

The Sterling Family

JUST ONE MORE MOMENT (Book 11, Kingstons)

Billionaire Remington Sterling has had his eye on gorgeous waitress Raven Walsh ever since she started working at The Back Door bar in New York City. Now that he is a co-owner and on-premises, he is determined to convince Raven he’s worth the risk.

But Raven has a secret past, one she is not only running from but is petrified will catch up to her. When it does, in the form of an obsessive stepbrother, she must decide if Remy is the right man to trust or whether it’s time to run.

Good thing Remy is one step ahead of her…

Meet The Sterling Family, part of Carly Phillips’ bestselling Kingston Family Series of sizzling stand-alone romances.Book InfoAvailable at Carly’s BookstoreEbookPrintPreorder from other retailersKindleAmazon PrintNookB&N PrintApple BooksKoboGoogle Play

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