THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 16

The next few days were busy for both men, but they still found time to visit Amethyst. Her hand was healing, and the bruises on her body, according to Phyllis, were almost gone too.
The better he got to know her, the more David decided that he liked her.
"I should go home," she said one evening as he helped her back upstairs after dinner.
"No."
He could slap himself for being curt, but dammit, he wasn't ready to let her go. Not yet.
She stopped and frowned at him. "Why not?"
He no longer thought of her as someone that needed their help. In fact, all he could think of was the softness of her skin and the way her eyes lit up when she smiled.
She gained some weight under Phyllis' feeding regime, and it only served to make her more beautiful.
Instead of answering her, he asked another question. "Do you ever look the mirror?"
Her frown deepened, and she poked him in the arm with her good hand. "What are you talking about?"
"You're beautiful," the words popped out of his mouth. The delightful blush that coloured her cheeks made him grin with satisfaction.
She rolled her eyes and started walking again. "I am going to ignore you. Goodnight."

It was Thursday, and Jeff had the night off. They decided to spend the evening at home.
Assembled in the music room, Jeff sat at the piano playing all kinds of silly songs and laughed with the rest of them when they got the words wrong.
Phyllis and Amethyst picked the songs and made the men sing them. Since both were focused on classical music, it was highly entertaining to hear their versions of the popular songs.
Able to stand and walk on her own, Amethyst wiped her face of the tears; she was laughing so hard.
“I had not yet heard Lara's Theme with those words,” she giggled.
At the end of the song, they decided to take a break and have coffee.
“I have good news,” David said once they were settled on the couches.
Everyone looked at him in expectation.
“We managed to find a job for every single person in the factory.”
“That's wonderful!”
“Good job!”
“Excellent news, indeed,” Phyllis rounded up the replies. “What about the ones that were arrested? Have the police found the mastermind yet?”
“No, not yet.”
Amethyst touched his arm. “They will.”
He smiled at her optimism, although he wasn't convinced.
Jeff put his empty mug in the tray and slapped his hands together. “Okay. Who is up for some Christmas songs?”
They all groaned but got to their feet anyway.
Assembled around the piano once more, the singing was so much better, since everyone knew the words.
At one point Phyllis winked at Jeff. They were in silent agreement about David and Amethyst.

*  *  *

On Saturday morning, I managed the stairs by myself. It was just over a week since I fell. My foot was fine, and now it was time for me to leave. If I could walk, I could go home and find myself another job. The Morecrofts had been kind, but I couldn't be a parasite any longer.
I also missed my friends. I didn't have a close friend, but the people from my class were the closest I had to a family. They would be wondering what happened to me since I have never missed a class before. It might be a while before I could dance again, but that didn't mean I couldn't hang out with them.
“Good morning,” I greeted my hosts upon entering the breakfast room. It was my favourite room in the house, after the music room. It was small and cozy, and not so intimidating as the formal dining room.
Three somber faces replied. That was not good. I froze in my tracks. “What's wrong?”
Both men got up, and Jeff pulled out a chair for me, also something that reminded me of the chasm between us. In my world, men didn't do things like that without wanting something in return. Jeff never looked at me with anything except friendship.
Then there was David.  I knew the look in his eyes, and yet he didn't act upon it. I had too much self-respect, but sometimes I wished that I could ignore that voice in my head.

David took my hand. “We have some bad news.”
My throat closed up. I just knew this was going to be bad. “About?”
“Your boss was fired yesterday, and his whole department was put on suspension pending an investigation into allegations of theft and fraud.”

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Author Interview: Michelle Kemp

Today I welcome Michelle Kemp to my blog. Michelle's JOURNEY story will resonate with young adult readers, but I am sure there are many adults who would appreciate the story too.

JOURNEY Author: Michelle Kemp

1. What made you decide to take part in the JOURNEY project?

I started writing stories when I was 9 years old so writing has always been a part of my life. I am a teacher so my passion has been writing children’s books and I have published seven books to date. However, I felt I was in need of a new challenge. When I heard about the Journey project I was very excited. I was eager to try my hand at writing fiction for someone older than 8 years. The concept of a central theme (as well as a set word count and deadline) really motivated me as I thrive on challenges. I was excited to be able to work with such an amazing, diverse group of authors and have really learned a lot.

2. What is the title of your story? How did you come up with the title?

The title of my story is Lonely. I have always loved writing poetry and as a teen it was a great way to express my emotions. I wrote a poem called Lonely as it was how I felt at the time. When I was writing this story, that poem was really resonating with me and my memories of being a lonely teen.

3. What inspired your story?

I actually wrote the first paragraph of the story years ago and never really did anything with it. One day I was reading through some of my old work looking for inspiration for Journey and I found this short text. It really struck a chord with me and I just started to write. I soon had a vision of this harsh bleak world; where the loneliness I had felt as a teen didn’t even compare to the loneliness found there. I realised that it is all about perspective. I wanted to share my story as it is a symbol of the journey that many teens experience.

4. Please tell us about the journey of your character(s)

My character is a teenage girl who goes on a journey to overcome her fears of loneliness. She is thrown into a world where she has no choice but to confront the harsh loneliness of life. Through this journey she learns that there are things that are worse than putting yourself out there and embracing life.

5. What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

I own a school and teach one of the classes so that takes up a lot of my time. I also teach creative writing to primary school children on some afternoons. When I do have spare moments I love to read as much as I can. I live on a smallholding with my parents so I enjoy being out in nature and spending time with my family. I enjoy dancing and swimming to relax but am also partial to drinking hot chocolate on the couch watching an epic movie.

6. What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

I have learned so much during this project. I think one of the greatest things is that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible. I have spread my wings as a writer and enjoyed every moment of the flight. I realise that my journey is far from over and that there is always a new challenge around the corner if I am just brave enough to take the chance.

7. What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

I think my biggest challenges would be time and editing. I love the writing process and enjoy working on different concepts. As such I work better with a deadline, as it helps me focus and devote time to a project. I prefer to write rather than edit but I am learning to enjoy polishing my work.

Thank you, Michelle, and all the best with your writing!

You can learn more about Michelle online:

Facebook

Blog: www.michellekempblog.wordpress.com

Blog: www.myjourneyinmontessori.blogspot.com

Linzé's Mischief: 25 September 2016

I am almost finished with my preparation for the Course based on the book, Negotiating the Maze. While it was my intention to follow the outline of the book, sometimes it is better to just follow your instincts. While the book remains the reference, the textbook if you like, the course will follow its own outline.

Course materials for students of Negotiating the Maze

While writing my notes (I do that by hand) I made some changes to the slides. I have always found that by writing by hand slows down my thinking and solutions, or better alternatives, popped into my head.

The changes are fairly minor, but it allows the storyline of the course content to flow more easily.

The first presentation will be this coming Saturday. I am excited to be presenting the course, but also a touch nervous. It has been years since I last conducted any kind of training course.

When I think about it, the excitement outweighs the nervousness, and that is a good thing in my book.

If had visited my blog during the week you would have seen the interview with JOURNEY author, Melissa Adendorff. This week it is the turn of YA author, Michelle Kemp. Be sure to visit again on Tuesday to meet another remarkable woman with whom I had the pleasure of working in this project called JOURNEY.

I am waiting for the final checks on two stories, then I can finalise the formatting of the ebook version of JOURNEY. If you like ebooks be sure to get order your copy as the pre-order price will be just short of criminal.

Pre-orders of the print book are still open. If you live in Pretoria or surrounding areas, keep your ear to the ground for the launch date and come around to meet all six of us. We love meeting readers (we are readers too!) and there will be prizes and giveaways at the launch for anyone to win. Of course, we would like you to buy a copy of the book, but it will not be a requirement to be eligible to win.

My editing of Waiting for Adrian, has taken a bit of a back seat this past week as I am focusing on finishing my course preparation. This coming week I want to spend some time editing again, but other obligations could limit that.

Obligations such as doing a photo shoot for a matric dance girl. Francois cannot do the shoot, so I am going to don my photographer's hat and make as if I know what I am doing - okay, I do know, but haven't done a solo shoot before. Will tell you next week how that went, maybe post a picture if her parents will allow it.

Until then, my friends, have a lovely week!

💜 Linzé

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 15

Hearing her cry out, did David pushed open the door and rushed forward when he saw her falling backward arms flailing.
Visions of her hitting her head gave him extra speed, and he grabbed her shirt. Right between her breasts.
He reached out to take her healthy hand and pulled her back into position.
It was hard to ignore the soft mounds rubbing his hand through the soft fabric, but he forced himself to let go.
“What are you doing?”
Her eyes were huge as they looked at him. “You saved me.”
His lips quirked a little. “It would seem that way. Are you okay? What are you doing in here?”
He stopped and looked at the toilet when he felt heat creep up his neck. Idiot.
She put her hand on his arm. “I wanted to take some of the painkillers the doctors prescribed, and I couldn't figure out which ones in the dark, so I came in here.”
“Grab the bag,” he said suddenly and lifted her up into his arms.
“Wait, the pills...”
They both looked at two green discs lying at the bottom of the bathtub, dissolving in a patch of water.
“You can take out two more.”
With her back in the bed, he reached out to switch on the bedside lamp. She took out two more tablets while he poured water into the glass.
“Why didn't you ask for help?”
She glanced at the chair he had been sleeping in. “You were tired, and I didn't want to bother you.”
He watched her swallow the tablets before helping her get comfortable again. “Next time just wake me, okay?”
She bit her lip and nodded.
“Good. Now lie back and close your eyes and let the medication do their job.”
She smiled at his commanding tone. “Will you sing for me?” she whispered. “You have a beautiful voice. Couldn't resist...the other night...had to come closer to listen.”
Stunned he sat there. Had he been the reason she had been trespassing?
She hummed a romantic ballad that was a popular version adapted from an operatic piece. Softly he sang with her. He didn't know the exact words of the English song, but he invented a few words around the ones did remember.

*  *  *

It was how Jeff and Phyllis found them.
Mother and son entered the house as quiet as they could. It was dark except for the light on the stairs to help them find their way.
They looked at each other when they reached Amethyst's room.
“Their voices are beautiful together,” Jeff whispered.
Phyllis nodded with her hand pressed to her mouth.
She pulled Jeff away with her. In her wing of the house, they both strained their ears until the last notes faded away.
“I don't think my brother has ever in his whole life sang anything with another person.”
“Except with you when you were still boys.”
“True, but even when he continued with his voice lessons, and I focused on the piano, he refused to sing any duets.”
Phyllis smiled as she put her feet up. It had been a long day, but the concert was worth every minute. She also enjoyed the party the orchestra had afterward. Jeff was a visiting pianist and popular with the people he performed with.
Jeff sat forward and linked his hands together between his knees. “Do you think I could convince them to sing at the Christmas charity benefit?”
Phyllis smiled wider. “That is an excellent idea!”
He grimaced. “Ha, now to figure out how to convince him to come out of the proverbial closet.”
“Hmmm,” she replied. “Now that is where I come in, my son.”

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Book Review: THE STRANGER by Anna del Mar

When a mysterious stranger is your only hope...

The scars of the past have left their mark, both physical and emotional, on former military pilot Seth Erickson. Off-grid in the far reaches of the bitter Alaskan wilderness, he wants only to be left alone with his ghosts. But he can’t ignore a woman in need—beautiful, stranded and nearly frozen with fear.

Summer Silva never imagined that the search for her missing sister would leave her abandoned on a wintry back road, barely escaping with her life from a cold-blooded killer for hire. Now, hiding out in the isolated cabin of the secretive wounded warrior who saved her, Summer knows she must do what she fears most. Putting her trust in a stranger is all she has left.

All defenses are down

After a fiery first night together, Seth and Summer are bound by a need as powerful as a Bering Sea superstorm—and vulnerable to enemies just as fierce. For Seth, reawakened by desire, there is no sacrifice too great, no memory too dark, to keep Summer safe. But murder and treason lurk everywhere and Summer may not survive Alaska’s ruthless winter.

A Wounded Warrior Novel. This book is approximately 110,000 words

Buy Links

Amazon           Carina Press            Barnes and Noble         Kobo Books        Google Play

Linzé's Review

Meet Summer and Seth - polar opposites just looking for a fight to happen. The story starts with animosity, distrust, and opposing goals when they meet.

But the reader soon learns why these feelings are there and why both the main characters are reacting like that and you want to root for them to get some common ground.

Seth is a likeable character and even from the start you cannot help but warm up to him, grouchiness notwithstanding. Burdened with the responsibility of his company and the threat of a take-over, he still comes across as a man of honour, and integrity. And being hot and sexy does help even if a pang of sympathy will creep into the fray. The character shows more depth as the story develops and make for a believable and very likeable hero.

Summer appears to be a flighty empty head, walking around in the Alaskan winter with high heels and a power suit does give that impression. Yet, you soon realise that there is much more to this caring woman who would literally go to the ends of the earth for her family. She lives with a difficult disorder that leaves her vulnerable to certain situations. But she doesn't let her weaknesses determine her life. A strong character that takes the challenges thrown her way and deals with them the best she can, always following her heart.

Thrown together the difficulties of their respective families and friends create a storyline that moves at a fast pace, yet slows down when their relationship intensifies. Trust takes time to build and the author explored this initial rift between them with sensitivity and guts at the same time.

It is a book laden with action, suspense, hot and steamy romance, yet touching on the base human fragility of having to survive against the odds. Trust, compassion, even forgiveness and understanding is portrayed in this very likeable story. It is more than a romance novel, it is a rollercoaster ride that will play with your emotions and yet leave you with a satisfied sigh at the end.

Linzé gives The Stranger:

Author Interview: Melissa Adendorff

Today I welcome Melissa Adendorff to the Broomstick. Melissa joined us at a late date, and still managed to complete her story ahead of time. Impressive!

1. What made you decide to take part in the JOURNEY project?

My friend Andrea told me that she was embarking on a new creative writing project, and I blurted out that I’d love to join. I have been writing my doctoral thesis for the last three years, so my creative juices desperately needed an outlet.

2. How did you come up with the title of your story?
The title of my story is “I was just hungry.” It came about after a fight with my partner – I was feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, and a myriad of emotions, but all I could say was that I was hungry. That excuse stuck in my mind, and it matched my initial story concept.

3. What inspired your story?

I didn’t write out of inspiration, to be honest. I sat down in front of the computer, typed “I was just hungry”, and just let the words flow. I needed to get something off of my chest, and that’s what ended up on the page.

4. What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

I do Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karambit knife fighting, ballet, and indoor climbing. I love to bake, and I can embroider … I am also in the final stages of my PhD, which, while not necessarily a thing I like to do, is a thing that I’ve been immersed in to the point where separation is difficult.

5. What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

I gained some insight into my behaviour, in terms of the passive aggressive slips which arise from not just addressing a problem in the moment. I was reminded of the therapeutic value of writing down the thing that hurts, writing down my truth, in order to gain some distance from it.

6. What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

I do not always trust in my own creative process. I have become so accustomed to writing in a formal, academic style, with references in order to justify my every thought; and I often feel “naked” without other experts to hide behind in my creative writing. I often write the first, visceral, honest draft, only to discard it in favour of something more remote and detached, because I am not really used to the emotive language anymore, and that hurts my process, because I can only write from a place of honest emotion.

7. What tool/software/technique/process do you find the most valuable to you as a writer?

I suppose my process is to have a “study buddy.” When I am working with another person, I am more motivated to complete a goal, and I have a resource right next to me for feedback if I need it. I struggle to work in isolation.

Thank you, Melissa!
Note from Linzé - Since doing the interview, Melissa has completed her PhD. Well done!

You can follow Melissa online:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Linzé's Mischief: 18 September 2016

I think I might have mentioned this before - I use a bullet journal as my to-do list these days. On days like today, I love and curse it at the same time! When things go well, I am happy, but it just seems that the list keeps getting longer despite the tasks I manage to complete.

Nah, I still love it - ignore my whining, it's my own lazy procrastinating self that is bitching about it.

Waiting for Adrian is coming along...slowly, but I am getting there. Seven chapters edited, and I am about to tackle chapter 8.

The last story for the JOURNEY anthology is still with the editor, and then I can start compiling the ebook for publication. Watch this space for the cover reveal and news about the launch of the print book.

I interviewed my fellow JOURNEY authors and you can meet the first one this week. She is one smart and interesting lady!

The Billionaire Baritone is also approaching its ending soon. I haven't started on a new story yet, although there might be an idea or two brewing for next year.

There is also a book review on Wednesday for romance lovers.

Stick around there is always more mischief brewing on my Broomstick!

Have a great week!
💜
Linzé

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 14

I couldn't decide which hurt more: my hand or my foot. Both were throbbing with each heartbeat. I had no idea what time it was, but unless I find those painkillers the doctor prescribed, I won't be getting any more sleep tonight.
“Great, now where did she put them?”
Before I could swear at the poor nurse, a swirling light caught my attention.
It was a mobile phone's screen changing colour every few seconds.
If it wasn't for the pain, the light show on the walls would have been soothing. It looked really pretty.
The phone was connected to a cable. charger probably.
“Crap,” I muttered. What the hell was David doing sleeping in the chair?
Probably thinking that I was incapable of doing anything for myself. It reminded me that I still haven't found those meds.
At least I knew my handbag was in the closet in the room. Phyllis was kind enough to put it there when we arrived.
I looked back at his sleeping form. It might be the soft light from his phone, but he looked relaxed and at peace when he slept. Good thing my hand hurt, and he was too far away to reach, otherwise I would have been more than tempted to push that stray lock of hair off his forehead.
I shook my head. “Idiot,” I hissed under my breath and turned to the other side. Relief shot like an arrow through me when I spotted the jug of water, a glass and the bag from the hospital.
I reached over with my left hand and carefully unfolded the top of the paper bag not to wake him. Inside there were three boxes.
I sighed. It was too dark to see which one I had to take and how many was recommended.
I eyeballed the distance to the bathroom door. I could hop over there, then he won't wake up from the light.
Settling on my plan of action, I shifted to the edge of the bed. At least my butt was fine, or maybe it recovered faster.
Carefully putting both feet on the floor, I slowly got up. My ankle hurt, but it wasn't worse than before.
I grabbed the bag in my good hand and slowly made my way to the bathroom. It was painful to put my weight on the foot, but I managed. At least I was not damaging it further because it wasn't broken.
One last look at his sleeping face I gently closed the door, before switching on the light. I press my elbow against the wall for additional support until I could sit down on the edge of the bath.
I took a moment to catch my breath.
Lifting my aching foot onto the lid of the toilet, I put the bag down and reached inside. The first box seemed to be the right one. I pressed two tablets out onto the edge of the bath.
I couldn't bring the glass from the bedside table with me.
Damn, there wasn't another in the bathroom.
Now, what? Two maybe three options popped into my head. Either swallow the tablets dry...yuck.
Or take them trying to drink from the tap with only one hand to use for balance and to drink from. That seemed a bit of a nightmare to figure out. My head ached just considering this choice.
The best was to put the tablets back into the bag, go back into the room, and use the glass on the bedside table to take them.
“Can't just one thing be easy?” I muttered in frustration.
“Amethyst?”
His voice startled me, and I could feel my butt slipping from the edge of my tub.
“Oh oh, oh!”

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Linzé's Mischief: 11 September 2016

I am losing it...with a smile.

This year has been nothing but roller coaster ride - up and down, up and down. The same can be said of my attempt at losing weight. With every down turn of events in my life, the invariable up occurred in my body mass. This year I have been more aware of this trend and tried hard not to get bogged down into comfort eating when things are not going well. My stress levels are stable, but still high, and that makes it more challenging to look after my health.
Yeah, that is the crux of the whole matter, my health. I have lost 7kg so far. Not much considering the road I still have ahead, but I feel more confident in the way I am tackling this problem. On the one hand it is easier than I thought, but still more challenging too.

I made an assessment of my eating habits and came to the following conclusions:

1. My meals are healthy - breakfast is muesli and soya yoghurt (I vary it with a whole grain cereal a few times a week), lunch is a banting kind of meal (no starch) and dinner usually is chicken (sometimes meat) with veggies or a salad. If necessary I will sweeten breakfast with xylitol (I have grown to dislike the taste of sugar)
2. My official snacks are healthy too - around mid-morning I have fruit, and late afternoon another fruit or a second tub of the soy yoghurt.

Note: Because of my milk allergy, I use rice milk to thin the thick soy yoghurt. I find the rice milk powder quite tasty and have come to prefer the powdered product to the pre-mixed rice milk version also available.

This left me with the unofficial snacking that I am often guilty of. I love chocolate, but because of the milk, my choices are very limited. I also tended to use this as an excuse to indulge in buying more chocolate bars than I should. I stopped doing this. Sure, I still have about one chocolate bar a week, but it is better than the quantity I consumed before I decided to lose weight.
Despite my chocolate craving, I don't much of a craving for other kinds of candy. If I have a dessert, it will also be chocolate/cocoa based.

Things I am avoiding as far as possible (mostly because of my blood sugar) but it helps with the lifestyle change too:

• white rice (in a restaurant I will have a salad, at home I will eat brown rice),
• potatoes (chips, fries - they are not just bad because of the starch but also the amount of salt; I will eat mashed potatoes but not more than once a week)
• bread (will eat rye or low GI - for lunch only)
• pap (a local corn-based starch usually served with a tomato based salsa)
• I will eat a pasta based dish once a week (love that Italian starch way too much to give it up)
• takeaways are out, unless there is some crisis at home - we might have pizza once a month, but mine has to have a lot of protein to limit the effects of the starchy base on my blood sugar. I am still looking at banting style pizzas with a suspicious eye.

Linzé's Vivofit monitor

I don't have time to go to the gym (and really don't like it anyway) but walk between 5 and 7 km each day at work - this includes climbing stairs. Weekends can be more or less depending on what we have going on.

This biggest change I have made is to stop snacking after dinner. Personally I think it has been the primary reason I am actually losing weight. After dinner I am not so active, since that is the time I am writing. If I get a craving for something, I have coffee, tea or a glass of fruit juice. If my blood sugar drops, I would normally eat something to help, but not after dinner. 
I use a low GI powder (sold as part of some fancy diet plan) and mix it with the rice milk to stabilise my blood sugar. Of course it still has calories, but that cannot be helped. Fortunately, it is not a daily problem. I keep this same powder mix at work, just in case. Some days involve a lot of running around, or stressful meetings that can drain my body's resources faster than usual.
I keep a handful of candies at home and at work, but only if it is an emergency. I have been on that scary edge of passing out, so I know when to eat them instead of drinking the diet mix.

Linzé Brandon

It may not be the best 'diet' but it is working for me and my lifestyle. Please note that my GP is monitoring my blood pressure medication combined with my weight loss. The plan is to go off the meds completely as soon as possible, but I still have some way to go before that will happen.

If you are struggling to lose weight, you are not alone on your journey.

More info about low-carb diets click here

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 13

In the room everyone was buzzing around to get things ready; getting ready included fiddling with me.
"You just have to look a little sick, since really sick people don't go home."
I had to frown at the nurse. A little sick? Seriously?
What else could I do? "I will try."
David grinned at my feeble attempt to look weak. I glared at him, but it only made him grin wider. Eventually, I gave up and grinned too.
"Okay, you two," Phyllis spoke up when she returned to my room dressed as a nurse.
We shared a guilty look, but she wasn't fooled.
"Everything is ready. Shall we?" Phyllis pointed to the door.
When David lifted me from the bed, I felt one hand slip under the hospital gown to grip my naked thigh. I narrowed my eyes at him, not fooled by that innocent gaze.
Damn, then he had to go and look at me like I was about to be his lunch. My stomach knotted tight, and I looked away. Men like him didn't go for girls like me.
I was more than happy that he didn't say anything. Once I was on the gurney he stepped back for the real nurse to do her thing.
Two minutes later they rolled me out at the hospital. David walked by my side. He mentioned that Phyllis' asthma was public knowledge, so the staff put a breathing mask over my face and put a small oxygen bottle on the gurney to make as if it was real.
Good thing I was lying down, because my long hair would have given the game away in a second.
The hardest part was not laughing. Once or twice I glanced at Phyllis or David and they both seemed to enjoy having fun at the expense of the press.
I was nervous and afraid that I was going to screw up all their planning. Neither of them looked concerned, and I wished I could be that confident.
Only inside the ambulance did I manage to find my breath. Phyllis and a real nurse went with me, with David following behind in his own car.
The driver even switched on the siren for a few blocks, making all of us giggle. I had never been inside an ambulance before, but this trip was fun.

* * *

When we got to the estate Phyllis directed the driver to the back of the house away from any prying eyes or lenses in this case.
The growl of David's car came to a quiet stop next to us. He held the door for the nurse who slid my gurney halfway out.
He held out his hand. Thinking that he was only helping me get to my feet, I took his hand. Damn. The next moment he lifted me into his arms again and ascended the stairs to the first floor.
I opened my mouth to protest.
"Forget it," he said with a wink. "It isn't every day that I get to play the superhero."
Phyllis tried to hide her smile. I crossed my arms and glared at him.
"Not going to work,"  he said and took the second flight as if I weighed nothing.
"Fine," I mumbled. It only earned me another wink. Crap, now I am blushing again.
At least he left the room once I was on the bed and being attended by the nurse and Phyllis. I was definitely more comfortable once dressed in a nightgown. It was less revealing for a start.
"There we go," the nurse said once my pillows were pumped high and my hand elevated on another pillow she put on my lap.
"Mrs. Moorecroft will call if you need anything else. Take care," she added and left with a smile. I promised myself to do everything possible to get better. The Moorecrofts had already done so much for me that I couldn't continue to be a burden.

* * *

David accompanied the nurse out, while Phyllis went to change back into her own clothes.
When they returned to the guest room, Amethyst was sleeping.
“Poor thing had a stressful day,” Phyllis said as she put a blanket over her.
David didn't reply, only reminded his mother that she needed to get ready for Jeff's performance.
“Aren't you coming?”
“Not tonight. I will stay with Amethyst, but might go out to the factory again. I am not sure the situation is under control and don't want to spoil your evening if I have to rush out in the middle of the performance.”
She frowned. “I hope you brother is as understanding.”
“It's okay, really. I spoke to Jeff on the way home, and he agrees with me. He will meet you at the theater and escort you back home afterward.”
She patted his arm. “Have a good evening.”
Checking that Amethyst was still resting, he went to his own rooms to shower and change.

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Linzé's Mischief: 4 September 2016

Almost every morning this past week, I sat on the stairs of the time share apartment in Club Mykonos. I had my journal on my lap, a cup of coffee close by, and a view to die for. Most mornings it was a sunny view of the ocean, but the last few days a thick fog rested over the resort.
I am not a water baby - the Atlantic ocean is way too cold for me anyway - so my time was mostly spent musing about my editing, and watching people.
The complex of apartments was built in the rough shape of a horseshoe, with the open end right on the beach. Our apartment was about a 100 meters away from the beach. At times the waves crashing over the rocks were so loud that I had to go inside and close the door just to be able to think.
Early mornings were the most interesting. As I sat and observed the world, I noticed men holding a cup of coffee (I presume) were also out on their balconies (the complex has two floors of apartments) enjoying the sea air. Sometimes I saw a family having breakfast together, but never a woman. Maybe they were sleeping late or were busy inside. I found that odd.
Since Francois is an early riser and prefers the early morning light for landscape photography, I think he woke the seagulls when he did his daily walkabout. I saw some of his photographs - stunning!
If I made it to my observation post before 9 am, I spotted more photographers as they made their way to the building where the Congress presentations were held. They carried name tags to identify them - that's how I knew they were photographers. Some even had cameras with them!

The resort has two of these large chess sets and one of them was within my line of sight. It was fascinating to watch people, teenagers mostly, play the game. They must have been bored to tears if resorting to playing a game where you had to apply your brain and not your reaction time. Of course, one game was about the limit of what they could manage, and then they were off to where the wi-fi connectivity was more reliable.
The beach wasn't suitable for swimming, too many rocks, and no lifeguard. It didn't deter the odd parent and toddler to build a sandcastle, though. During our visit, the tide came in during the morning, so playtime was fairly limited.
One morning I walked around the harbour. It is not suited for commercial shipping, but judging by the number of sail- and motorised boats, it is a popular venue for people enjoying boating. They offered tourist trips on a catamaran (a rather big one to my ignorant mind) out into the bay area.

Commercial shipping made use of the harbour at Saldanha Bay a little further up the coast. We could see a tanker of some kind waiting its turn on the open sea.
On my hike around the harbour, I came across a fisherman standing on the rocks next to the harbour wall. Judging by the look on his face, he hadn't had much success that morning. Come to think about it, I think the only successful fishermen had been the reed cormorants who came in their hundreds for a quick lunch, before flying off to search for dinner somewhere else.
I didn't attend the Congress of the Photographic Society, although Francois registered me to make my meals easier to manage. Judging by the comments during the awards banquet (I did mention I was there for the food) it would seem that the photographers had the time of their lives. The speakers were well received and lots of new friends were made.
Congratulations to all the award winners, and a special mention goes to Francois (aka Hubby) for receiving his APSSA in print photography. (Photo on Instagram)

PS: I managed to edit the prologue and four chapters of my next novel. Not as much as I had planned, but considering all the rewrites, not bad for five days' work.

Book Release: METRO DIARIES - 2 by Namrata

About the Book:

Give life another chance. Laugh a little longer. let go of your past. Hold onto what you love. In short LIVE rather than just exist!



Some told, some untold, some heard and some unheard - this collection of stories will make you look at life in a different light and make you ponder over its definition of it till now.


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Reviews for Metro Diaries 1:

After touching your hearts with 'Metro Diaries - Love Classics' she is back now with stories that will redefine life for you!

The stories in Metro Diaries - Love Classics are free from any trappings of youthful slang and fashionable language stunts. These young adults are speaking to the readers with Namrata’s maturity shining through, and Namrata’s ideas of love. - Sakshi Nanda 

The language is fairly pleasant to read and the elaborate discussions between characters in each story must have taken a lot of work – because the most difficult job of all authors is to bring out human emotions in proper words. Thankfully, Namrata has concentrated upon it very well! - Dhivya Balaji

About the Author:

Namrata is A Lost Wanderer who loves travelling the length and breadth of the world. A published author in various anthologies and magazines she enjoys capturing the magic of life in her words. She is forever in pursuit of a new country and a new story.

Contact the Author:

Website * Facebook * Twitter

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 12

David entered Amethyst's room with a grim look. Phyllis got up and waved him outside, not wanting to disturb the patient who was resting.

“What's wrong? Did things change at the factory? We saw it on the news.”

He shook his head. “Not that I know off. The problem is the press. They followed me here. I was too upset to notice until it was too late.”

His face hardened. “I don't want them to find out about Amethyst.”

Phyllis nodded in understanding. They lived with security to keep the press away, but they would make the young woman's life a nightmare if they found out she knew David and Jeff.

“How did you get here?”

Phyllis arched an eyebrow. “Sean dropped me off. Why?”

He nodded in approval. The chauffeur he employed also served as additional security for his mother.

“It means that the press doesn't know that you are inside. This place has good security, and the staff is discreet. Can we say that you came for a routine check-up or something to explain why I am here? We own this place so it would make sense for you to come here for even a minor medical reason.”

“They don't happen to be here for someone else?”

He shook his head. “Not our lucky day; I checked.”

She bit her fingernail. “What about Amethyst? We cannot just throw her to the wolves. And she cannot go home either. She will still need assistance until her hand is healed.”

He took a deep breath and let it out in frustration. “What do you suggest?”

He narrowed his eyes at the sudden gleam in Phyllis' eyes. “What are you thinking?”

She smiled. “I got this. You just be ready to talk to the press when I come back.”

“Okay,” he replied, but he didn't sound convinced even to his own ears.

In Amethyst's room, he waited and watched her sleep. He wondered if she had any idea of the impact she had made on the lives of so many people in such a short time.

The people whose lives he changed today were still in shock, and it would take a day or so before they grasp the reality of the factory closing down. But everyone would be found an opportunity, he gave his word.

He looked at his watch. He promised Jeff that they would be at the concert tonight, but now it looked like it wouldn't happen. Maybe Phyllis could ask a friend to go with her since he had heard his brother perform in several countries, while Phyllis preferred not to travel because of her asthma.

The door opened to let his mother inside.

“Everything is arranged.”

“What is?”

Even as she explained, David frowned. “It's a good plan, except for one thing.”

“What's that?”

“We need Amethyst to agree to this. Otherwise, it would be kidnapping.”

“Oh. I didn't think of that,” Phyllis replied.

He got up and stretched his arms and shoulders. “I suggest you wake her and get her permission. I am going to the bathroom and then I am going to talk to the press. Ten minutes.”

She made a sound like a snort, but he had left already.

When she turned around, two blue eyes were watching her with suspicion. “You want to kidnap me?”

Feeling foolish, Phyllis quickly explained their plan to sneak out of there to avoid the press.

Amethyst sat up. “But I am nobody, why would the press bother me?”

She closed her eyes for a moment and shook her head. “David and Jeff. You think I am going to sell some kind of story to the press to get my name into the papers? Why would you think that? I may be poor, but I don't do things like that!”

David rushed inside. “What is going on? We need to leave. Everything is ready.”

He looked from his mother to Amethyst. The one looked frustrated, the other about to cry. He decided the tears would be the worst so he went to the bed and took her hand in both of his. “Please do this for me. I have had a terrible day, and only want to make sure you don't have to worry about the wolves out there.”

She looked at their hands. “Are they that bad?” she whispered.

It made his heart ache to hold her and soothe her fears. Instead, he smiled. “Vultures. The lot of them.”

She smiled too. “Okay then.”

Their smiles faltered, but neither looked away.

Were her eyes so warm and open for him? He couldn't remember anyone looking at him like that. Women he knew before all had some hard edge to them. Maybe Jeff was right. Maybe he should look somewhere else for his happiness.

His hand automatically lifted to cup her cheek. Such soft skin. His thumb gently traced the curves of her bones and hovered at the edge of those kissable lips. She licked her lips and the heat level in his blood shot up to an inferno.

Is he going to kiss me? He read the question in her eyes.

Can I kiss her? He thought in return.

“Are we ready to go?” a cheerful voice interrupted, and he stepped away with regret.

Amethyst's shy smile told him she felt the loss as much as he did.

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