(2011) Only the Innocent (53 page)

Laura said nothing, but she understood. She felt that this was a man that she could have loved, had life been kinder. But the barrier between them would be too great. And she knew she would never be able to love another man - because to her love meant honesty, and this was a story never to be told again.

Tom dropped his arms to his sides and stepped towards her. He reached out a hand, and with the back of his index finger he gently stroked her cheek.

And then he was gone.

###

Rachel Abbott was born just outside Manchester, England. She spent most of her working life as the Managing Director of an interactive media company, developing software and websites for the education market. The sale of that business enabled her to fulfil one of her lifelong ambitions - to buy and restore a property in Italy. 

Rachel lives full time in the completed property with her husband and two dogs, and is now able to devote time to her other ambition - to write fiction. 

Connect with Rachel Abbott Online:

Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/Rachel__Abbott

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/RachelAbbott1Writer

Website:
http://www.rachel-abbott.com

Many people helped in so many ways with background information - but in particular I would like to thank John Wrintmore for his information about the workings of the police, and for responding to my many email enquiries. I know that I haven’t always listened to the excellent advice he gave me - but only in the interests of the story!

Special thanks to those of you who so willingly read (and re-read) this novel to give input and suggestions - in particular Becky, Nic and Rachel who spent the whole of their summer holiday reading (admittedly, lying by the swimming pool) - I can’t tell you how satisfying it was to listen to you all discussing the plot over dinner each night with such enthusiasm. And Judith and Tom - thanks for being such incredible proof readers. Of course, I’ve changed huge chunks since then, so any mistakes that have crept in are entirely of my own making.

My particular thanks go to my agent, Lizzy Kremer, who has guided me over the last few months with huge patience and tolerance. She has helped me to transform Only the Innocent and bring my characters to life.

No book is complete with an excellent cover - and Alan Carpenter has once again triumphed. I think I guessed when I sent him my poorly constructed ideas that he would volunteer to design a cover to be proud of, and I was right.

And John - you have been a star. You've taken care of everything so that I focus on writing and marketing, and I can’t remember how many mealtimes (the only time I emerge from my office) you have had to listen to me agonising over a single phrase or even word in an attempt to get it just right. Thank you for your unfailing support.