Different Roads (22 page)

            I
wasn't sure what the loud explosion was that I heard. It was followed by a blinding
flash of light and something warm and wet splattered all over my naked back.
The smell of gunpowder and blood assaulted my senses. Somewhere in the fog of
my thoughts, I heard Shelley screaming my name right before every single thing
went black.
Shelley? Where are you going, don't leave me Shelley. I'm so
afraid.

I
always loved Jaq. She was my soul mate, the love of my life. I never even got
the chance to tell her I'd filed for divorce and was going to try and make
things right with her.

Even though life led us down different
roads, it always seemed like we were destined to be together. Unfortunately, by
the time I figured out what she'd probably known all along, it was too late.
The emotional scars I've carried around this past year will take a lifetime to
heal. I'm not so sure a lifetime is long enough for some of the wounds.

Today is November seventh. Jaq's
birthday. Even though she always despised celebrating her birthday, a few of us
are going to Pete's to celebrate her memory and knock back a few shots of
tequila in her honor.

There's a special place in hell for
people like Damon Blackwell and I hope he feels the pain he inflicted on Jaq
every second of eternity.

Jaq, I will love you always.

First
of all, I have to thank Mary Kelley for her editorial advice and expertise.
Great minds think alike. If, while reading this book, you come across any
errors -- don't blame Mary. I re-wrote several parts of the book after the
initial editing, based on her suggestions. If you are looking for a freelance
editor, drop her a line:
[email protected]
.

            I
would also like to thank Antoinette Rugh who said one day at work: I have an
idea for your next book... She proceeded to do the first initial outline and
planted a whole bunch of seeds which became a big part of this book. (Sorry
Toni, I changed the ending.)

            Jean
Maurie Puhlman, thank you for your tireless support and suggestions along the
way through the writing of all of my books. Let's hope there are many more to
come!

            I
have many friends and family members who have supported me along the way and
never stopped reading my work, page by page, chapter by chapter.

            Last,
but certainly not least, Thanks to my mom and dad for my first 1973 Dodge
Charger. Dad wouldn't let me get the 440 Magnum! Thanks both of you for
everything.

Lori
L. Clark was born and raised in the Hawkeye State. She reads. She writes. She
runs half-marathons for fun. She is at home in the fine state of Missouri with
her only child, who has four legs and fur.

Find
Lori on twitter: @clarklori

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/LoriLClarkAuthor

Book
review blog:
http://justbookinaround.blogspot.com

Author's
blog:
http://www.shewritesbooks.com

Email:
[email protected]