Breaking Through (27 page)

Three months later

We’re waist-deep in the ocean,
and I love how Nautia’s naked breasts feel against me. I kiss her neck. Her fingers weave through my hair as she tips her head back to give me better access to her throat.

I grab her ass so I can thrust deeper into her. She breathes out a moan, and I know she’s enjoying what I’m doing when the water level rises and hits my shoulder blades.

When we returned to the States, Melene offered Nautia a full recruitment into the United States Navy. She’d be on my crew, go where I go.

“Thank you, Admiral,” Nautia said. “But I think I’ll decline. I’m needed elsewhere.”

Melene gave me a four-week leave of absence, and I flew with Nautia, Kray, and Britta back to Brighton. After explaining Cara’s involvement in both TM1 and TM2, and how she abused her
counselor position at the school, the board of directors decided to launch an investigation into the North Korean chemical weapons program. They also studied Nautia’s resume for Cara’s old job.

Nautia starts on Monday.

But until then—for two more days—it’s just Nautia, me, and the private beach I’ve rented.

And this woman? This beautiful, powerful woman is mine.

With her legs wrapped around me, she moves her hips to the rhythm I set. She’s panting, hooded eyes focusing on my mouth. I suck on her lips because that’s what she wants. Pump into her harder, faster.

“Riley,” she whimpers, gripping onto my shoulders.

The tide rises a little more, and I have to back us into the shallows to keep our heads from going under water. I don’t care, though. Out here, I want her to lose control and give herself up to me.

She tightens around me, and I’m close to losing control too. Damn, it feels good.

“Come with me,” she says.

So I do.

I hold her against me as we moan out our love. Nautia’s body trembles from the pleasure, and I find her mouth. Kiss her until she stills.

“Tell me you love me,” she says, beautiful blues sparkling like the ocean at sunset.

“I love you.”

She unhooks her ankles from me, and I slip out when she puts her feet down. Worst part of sex.

She turns so her back is against me, and we’re looking out over the water. The tide has lowerd slightly.

“Do you trust me?” she asks.

“Yes.”

“Then don’t move.”

She holds out her hands, then slowly lifts them above her head. Two gorgeous waterspouts rise out of the sea we’re still standing in, and begin to dance. Twirling and playing as they circle each other under the stars.

Nautia leans her head back on me and sighs. Even though I can’t see her face, I know she’s smiling.

Because I am too.

When I was twelve years old
I had this dream: I wanted to be an author. This book is my fifth full-length novel, and it blows me away. I’m living my dream!

I couldn’t have done this alone, though. I have so many people who have helped me along the way. This page is for them.

First, foremost, and always, I thank God, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without Him, none of this would be possible.

The next honor goes to my husband, who has loved, supported, and encouraged me. He’s read and edited all my books, even though he rolled his eyes at all the romance. I love you!

My children. Oh, my children. They deserve an award, especially the last few weeks before release day. Even more especially when Mommy has passed all her deadlines and can barely keep her eyes open. Hugs and kisses to all four of you!

To my parents, in-laws, and extended family for all their support. Thanks for being there for me!

My awesome author besties! Sunniva Dee, Laura Thalassa, Angela McPherson, whenever the book frumps bring me down, I can always count on the three of you to pull me out of it. Thank you for CPing, beta reading, laughing with me, crying with me, and just being there for me. You guys rock!

Thank you to my wonderful street team. I love knowing I can bounce ideas off you, and that you’ll give me your honest opinions on teasers, art, and author logos. Thanks for your support and for loving my books.

A huge shout out to the bloggers and reviewers who have supported me and this book. I’m too scared to name you all because I’ll probably leave someone out, but you know who you are. You’ve helped get my name out there, loved my books, and welcomed me into the writing community with open arms. You deserve so much more than a simple “thank you.” Really, you do.

Thank you to Ashley from Redbird Designs for the super awesome cover! I gave her an idea, and boy did she deliver! It couldn’t have been better!
www.redbird-designs.net

To my editor, Kim Grenfell. Under normal circumstances she would have gotten the manuscript in one completed document, but Kim was such a champ, taking it in small pieces until it was finished. You did a marvelous job, Kim. Thank you!
www.goldenstandardediting.blogspot.com

Thank you to The Book Design Guy, John. The formatting for this book is just perfect! Thank you also for the great social media and newsletter banners!
www.thebookdesignguy.com

The first half of this book originally appeared in anthology called, “Beneath the Cape: A Superhero Anthology.” I collaborated with seven other talented authors: Angela McPherson, Christine Zolendz, Cheryl McIntyre, Laura Thalassa, Lynn Vroman, Megan Vernon, and Sunniva Dee. The anthology was available from June 1 - October 1, 2015, and every author-earned dime went to support The Wounded Warrior Project. I’d like to thank the authors for participating, giving up their time and talent for charity. I’d also like to thank the readers who purchased the anthology. Thank you for your support!

Last but not least, thank you to the readers. You are the bread and butter for us authors. You are why we do what we do. <3

Love Always,

d.