No Getting Over You Page 21
Matt started to walk toward Cassie, then stopped when Gage joined him.
“I just got a text from Ivan.” Gage looked at his phone, trying to read the message in the waning sunlight. “His plane was delayed, but he’s on his way and bringing a couple guests. He’ll be here in time for most of the party.”
Matt watched Gage drop his arm, his gaze wandering back to the circle of women. One woman in particular.
“Why don’t you go ask her to dance?” Matt asked.
“Who?”
“Skye.” Matt tilted his glass in her direction. “Either get her out of your system or go after her. Put yourself out of your misery.”
Gage stared at Matt. “Spoken by the man who only months ago got a broken nose from the woman he never planned to get near again,” he chuckled. “And now you’re married to her.”
“Life can surprise you.” Matt’s smile focused on the one woman who owned his heart and always would. He’d never be able to explain it to Gage, a man who’d experienced nothing but pain and betrayal during his own marriage. “You know, Skye isn’t anything like your first wife. When she commits to a man, I guarantee you, the marriage will stick.”
Gage slugged down the rest of his drink. “You ever think that’s what keeps me away from the woman?”
Matt’s brows drew together in a frown. “I don’t understand.”
“Hell, neither do I.” Gage shook his head, then turned, stalking toward Skye like a moth drawn to a flame. He knew it would never work, yet there was no reason he couldn’t have a few dances with her, feel her in his arms, hear her laughter. Allowing himself that would be worth heading back to Houston alone.
Hearing an outburst of laughter coming from the front entry, Matt turned, shielding his eyes from the afternoon sun. Heath, Rafe, and Jace walked toward the food table, lost in their own conversation.
“They’re having a fine time today.”
Matt turned at the sound of Cassie’s voice. Wrapping an arm around her, he tugged her tight against him, capturing her mouth with his. Giving the guests a brief show, he pulled back. “When can we leave?”
Cassie tossed her head back, laughing. They’d spent more time in bed the last few weeks than at work. “We should probably stay at least until we cut the cake.” At the sound of a car engine, she turned to see a sleek silver limousine park at the back of a long line of cars. “Who do you think that is?”
Matt watched as a tall, slim man with ink black hair emerged, offering his hand to someone inside, as a second man exited the car from the other side.
“That’s Ivan Santiago. You remember. He runs Double Ace for his father and uncles. He’s Gage’s boss. Come on. Let’s greet him.”
“Oh my,” Cassie gasped. “Isn’t he Kade’s cousin?”
“That’s what I understand.” He tugged her along, confused by her hesitation. “Ivan, we’re so glad you could make it.” Matt held out his hand. “Let me introduce you to my wife, Cassie MacLaren Garner. Cassie, this is Ivan Santiago.”
“You are as lovely as Matt said.” He turned to the woman next to him. “This is my aunt, Reyna Santiago, and my father, Javier Santiago. Aunt Reyna, Father, these are the newlyweds, Matt and Cassie Garner.”
Cassie caught her breath as the woman stepped forward. Of average size, she had an almost regal bearing and a classical beauty most women would envy. Cassie also knew she stared at her cousin Kade’s mother, her aunt Reyna.
“It’s so lovely of you to invite us to celebrate your marriage.” Reyna held out her hands, taking Cassie’s in a warm embrace, her gaze penetrating in its intensity. “I do believe we have someone in common.”
Cassie cleared her throat, already liking the woman. “Two, if I’m not mistaken.”
Matt stood beside Cassie, his brows drawing together at the unusual exchange. He started to ask about it when he noticed Javier Santiago take a protective stance next to Reyna a moment before Kade, Heath, Rafe, and Jace came to a halt next to him. The air became thick as tension radiated through the group.
Before Matt had a chance to introduce them, Rafe stepped forward, his deep voice slicing through the silence.
“Reyna?”
She smiled up at him, her face glowing. “Rafe. It’s been a long time.”
Thank you for taking the time to read No Getting Over You. If you enjoyed it, please consider telling your friends or posting a short review. Word of mouth is an author’s best friend and much appreciated.
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About the Author
Shirleen Davies writes romance—historical, contemporary, and romantic suspense. She grew up in Southern California, attended Oregon State University, and has degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Maryland. During the day she provides consulting services to small and mid-sized businesses. But her real passion is writing emotionally charged stories of flawed people who find redemption through love and acceptance. She now lives with her husband in a beautiful town in northern Arizona.
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Books by Shirleen Davies
Historical Western Romance Series
MacLarens of Fire Mountain
Tougher than the Rest, Book One
Faster than the Rest, Book Two
Harder than the Rest, Book Three
Stronger than the Rest, Book Four
Deadlier than the Rest, Book Five
Wilder than the Rest, Book Six
Redemption Mountain
Redemption’s Edge, Book One
Wildfire Creek, Book Two
Sunrise Ridge, Book Three
Dixie Moon, Book Four
Survivor Pass, Book Five
MacLarens of Boundary Mountain
Colin’s Quest, Book One,
Brodie’s Gamble, Book Two
Contemporary Romance Series
MacLarens of Fire Mountain
Second Summer, Book One
Hard Landing, Book Two
One More Day, Book Three
All Your Nights, Book Four
Always Love You, Book Five
Hearts Don’t Lie, Book Six
No Getting Over You, Book Seven
‘Til the Sun Comes Up, Book Eight, Releasing 2016
Peregrine Bay
Reclaiming Love, Book One, A Novella
Our Kind of Love, Book Two
Other Books by Shirleen Davies
http://www.shirleendavies.com/books.html
Tougher than the Rest – Book One
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“A passionate, fast-paced story set in the untamed western frontier by an exciting new voice in historical romance.”
Niall MacLaren is the oldest of four brothers, and the undisputed leader of the family. A widower, and single father, his focus is on building the MacLaren ranch into the largest and most successful in northern Arizona. He is serious about two things—his responsibility to the family and his future marriage to the wealthy, well-connected widow who will secure his place in the territory’s destiny.
Katherine is determined to live the life she’s dreamed about. With a job waiting for her in the growing town of Los Angeles, California, the young teacher from Philadelphia begins a journey across the United States with only a couple of trunks and her spinster companion. Life is perfect for this adventurous, beautiful youn
g woman, until an accident throws her into the arms of the one man who can destroy it all.
Fighting his growing attraction and strong desire for the beautiful stranger, Niall is more determined than ever to push emotions aside to focus on his goals of wealth and political gain. But looking into the clear, blue eyes of the woman who could ruin everything, Niall discovers he will have to harden his heart and be tougher than he’s ever been in his life…Tougher than the Rest.
Faster than the Rest – Book Two
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“Headstrong, brash, confident, and complex, the MacLarens of Fire Mountain will captivate you with strong characters set in the wild and rugged western frontier.”
Handsome, ruthless, young U.S. Marshal Jamie MacLaren had lost everything—his parents, his family connections, and his childhood sweetheart—but now he’s back in Fire Mountain and ready for another chance. Just as he successfully reconnects with his family and starts to rebuild his life, he gets the unexpected and unwanted assignment of rescuing the woman who broke his heart.
Beautiful, wealthy Victoria Wicklin chose money and power over love, but is now fighting for her life—or is she? Who has she become in the seven years since she left Fire Mountain to take up her life in San Francisco? Is she really as innocent as she says?
Marshal MacLaren struggles to learn the truth and do his job, but the past and present lead him in different directions as his heart and brain wage battle. Is Victoria a victim or a villain? Is life offering him another chance, or just another heartbreak?
As Jamie and Victoria struggle to uncover past secrets and come to grips with their shared passion, another danger arises. A life-altering danger that is out of their control and threatens to destroy any chance for a shared future.
Harder than the Rest – Book Three
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“They are men you want on your side. Hard, confident, and loyal, the MacLarens of Fire Mountain will seize your attention from the first page.”
Will MacLaren is a hardened, plain-speaking bounty hunter. His life centers on finding men guilty of horrendous crimes and making sure justice is done. There is no place in his world for the carefree attitude he carried years before when a tragic event destroyed his dreams.
Amanda is the daughter of a successful Colorado rancher. Determined and proud, she works hard to prove she is as capable as any man and worthy to be her father’s heir. When a stranger arrives, her independent nature collides with the strong pull toward the handsome ranch hand. But is he what he seems and could his secrets endanger her as well as her family?
The last thing Will needs is to feel passion for another woman. But Amanda elicits feelings he thought were long buried. Can Will’s desire for her change him? Or will the vengeance he seeks against the one man he wants to destroy—a dangerous opponent without a conscious—continue to control his life?
Stronger than the Rest – Book Four
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“Smart, tough, and capable, the MacLarens protect their own no matter the odds. Set against America’s rugged frontier, the stories of the men from Fire Mountain are complex, fast-paced, and a must read for anyone who enjoys non-stop action and romance.”
Drew MacLaren is focused and strong. He has achieved all of his goals except one—to return to the MacLaren ranch and build the best horse breeding program in the west. His successful career as an attorney is about to give way to his ranching roots when a bullet changes everything.
Tess Taylor is the quiet, serious daughter of a Colorado ranch family with dreams of her own. Her shy nature keeps her from developing friendships outside of her close-knit family until Drew enters her life. Their relationship grows. Then a bullet, meant for another, leaves him paralyzed and determined to distance himself from the one woman he’s come to love.
Convinced he is no longer the man Tess needs, Drew focuses on regaining the use of his legs and recapturing a life he thought lost. But danger of another kind threatens those he cares about—including Tess—forcing him to rethink his future.
Can Drew overcome the barriers that stand between him, the safety of his friends and family, and a life with the woman he loves? To do it all, he has to be strong. Stronger than the Rest.
Deadlier than the Rest – Book Five
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“A passionate, heartwarming story of the iconic MacLarens of Fire Mountain. This captivating historical western romance grabs your attention from the start with an engrossing story encompassing two romances set against the rugged backdrop of the burgeoning western frontier.”
Connor MacLaren’s search has already stolen eight years of his life. Now he is close to finding what he seeks—Meggie, his missing sister. His quest leads him to the growing city of Salt Lake and an encounter with the most captivating woman he has ever met.
Grace is the third wife of a Mormon farmer, forced into a life far different from what she’d have chosen. Her independent spirit longs for choices governed only by her own heart and mind. To achieve her dreams, she must hide behind secrets and half-truths, even as her heart pulls her towards the ruggedly handsome Connor.
Known as cool and uncompromising, Connor MacLaren lives by a few, firm rules that have served him well and kept him alive. However, danger stalks Connor, even to the front range of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains, threatening those he cares about and impacting his ability to find his sister.
Can Connor protect himself from those who seek his death? Will his eight-year search lead him to his sister while unlocking the secrets he knows are held tight within Grace, the woman who has captured his heart?
Read this heartening story of duty, honor, passion, and love in book five of the MacLarens of Fire Mountain series.
Wilder than the Rest – Book Six
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Historical Western Romance Series
“A captivating historical western romance set in the burgeoning and treacherous city of San Francisco. Go along for the ride in this gripping story that seizes your attention from the very first page.”
“If you’re a reader who wants to discover an entire family of characters you can fall in love with, this is the series for you.” – Authors to Watch
Pierce is a rough man, but happy in his new life as a Special Agent. Tasked with defending the rights of the federal government, Pierce is a cunning gunslinger always ready to tackle the next job. That is, until he finds out that his new job involves Mollie Jamison.
Mollie can be a lot to handle. Headstrong and independent, Mollie has chosen a life of danger and intrigue guaranteed to prove her liquor-loving father wrong. She will make something of herself, and no one, not even arrogant Pierce MacLaren, will stand in her way.
A secret mission brings them together, but will their attraction to each other prove deadly in their hunt for justice? The payoff for success is high, much higher than any assignment either has taken before. But will the damage to their hearts and souls be too much to bear? Can Pierce and Mollie find a way to overcome their misgivings and work together as one?
Second Summer – Book One
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary Romance Series
“In this passionate Contemporary Romance, author Shirleen Davies introduces her readers to the modern day MacLarens starting with Heath MacLaren, the head of the family.”
The Chairman of both the MacLaren Cattle Co. and MacLaren Land Development, Heath MacLaren is a success professionally—his personal life is another matter.
Following a divorce after a long, loveless marriage, Heath spends his time with women who are beautiful and passionate, yet unable to provide what he longs for . . .
Heath has never experienced love even though he witnesses it every day between his younger brother, Jace, and wife, Caroline. He wants what they have, yet spends his time with women to
o young to understand what drives him and too focused on themselves to be true companions.
It’s been two years since Annie’s husband died, leaving her to build a new life. He was her soul mate and confidante. She has no desire to find a replacement, yet longs for male friendship.
Annie’s closest friend in Fire Mountain, Caroline MacLaren, is determined to see Annie come out of her shell after almost two years of mourning. A chance meeting with Heath turns into an offer to be a part of the MacLaren Foundation Board and an opportunity for a life outside her home sanctuary which has also become her prison. The platonic friendship that builds between Annie and Heath points to a future where each may rely on the other without the bonds a romance would entail.
However, without consciously seeking it, each yearns for more . . .
The MacLaren Development Company is booming with Heath at the helm. His meetings at a partner company with the young, beautiful marketing director, who makes no secret of her desire for him, are a temptation. But is she the type of woman he truly wants?
Annie’s acceptance of the deep, yet passionless, friendship with Heath sustains her, lulling her to believe it is all she needs. At least until Heath drops a bombshell, forcing Annie to realize that what she took for friendship is actually a deep, lasting love. One she doesn’t want to lose.
Each must decide to settle—or fight for it all.
Hard Landing – Book Two
MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary Romance Series
Trey MacLaren is a confident, poised Navy pilot. He’s focused, loyal, ethical, and a natural leader. He is also on his way to what he hopes will be a lasting relationship and marriage with fellow pilot, Jesse Evans.
Jesse has always been driven. Her graduation from the Naval Academy and acceptance into the pilot training program are all she thought she wanted—until she discovered love with Trey MacLaren
Trey and Jesse’s lives are filled with fast flying, friends, and the demands of their military careers. Lives each has settled into with a passion. At least until the day Trey receives a letter that could change his and Jesse’s lives forever.