Love, Riley: Redemption Highway: Briarwood

by Leaona Luxx

  “Well, since you got it, I better at least look at it.” I wrinkle my nose as I smile.

  “Okay.” I bite my lip as he pulls the lid from the box.

  He pulls the first paper out, reading over it. His eyes flash to mine and back. He reads faster, then he smiles. “How’d you do this?”

  “Turns out, Walker is as good as your dad. So, you are no longer the sole owner of this house. It’s back in my name, for now.” I narrow my eyes.

  “For now?”

  “Keep on, there’s more.” I nod toward his box.

  He pulls the second paper out, and I brace myself because if this one doesn’t do it, the next one will. He reads it, his eyes snap to mine, and I melt when I see tears. “You’re going to marry me?” His voice no more than a whisper.

  “Of course, you silly man.” I wink at him.

  “This says January first.” He stares at me.

  “Yeah, a New Year’s wedding sounds amazing, don’t you think?” He rounds the counter on me. “Hold up, you’ve got one more.”

  He drags the box across the granite. Reaching in, he pulls the pink box free. He looks at it and then at me. “What?”

  “Hold your horses, buddy. I’m not pregnant.” His face falls. “I’m just saying, after I graduate and you’re here full-time, let’s get married. And then, see if we can put these tests to use.”

  Riley’s eyes sparkle as he steps closer to me, and his smile spreads across his face. “You mean, married the first of the year, baby by summer?”

  “That’s what I’m saying. You wanna maybe do it with me?” I bite my lip.

  “I can’t think of anything I want more.” He drags me into his arms, placing his lips to mine.

  Never allow anyone to determine how you survive.

  Our beginning… because we choose it to be.

  To my readers, I can never find the words to thank you enough for having my back and taking a chance on me. Without people like you, I wouldn’t be on this amazing journey of discovery and recovery. Your love and support of me can never be repaid, thank you.

  Bloggers, bless y’alls hearts. My sincere apologies for always being late. Thank you for not giving up on me and for always taking your time to offer an author an opportunity to become a favorite. I say it all the time— how you do it is beyond me.

  For the Love of Pimping, Calling All Books, Reading is Our Passion, and Naughty Smut Readers, thank you for your undying dedication to me and my journey. I can never repay you and will forever be indebted. I love you ladies like my own.

  The Bottom Turners, I love you ladies. Thank you for being the kinda ladies that are ride or die. Without you by my side, life would’ve not only kicked me but kept me down. Without you, I wouldn’t be here. Thank you for all you do to help me or show me love. I love y’all.

  Masque of the Red Pen, I will soon mark my one year anniversary and you’ve been there from the start. Jumping in to save me when everyone screwed over me. You are the utmost professional, and I thank you for all you do. Your effort and love go beyond the pale.

  TE Black Designs, I can never thank you enough for your vision and talent. Taking your time to make sure I have the utmost service and care but for also, listening to my wants and needs. I love you.

  K.K. Raines, thank you for your beautiful face on my cover. I adore you. Thank you for being my friend and supporting me. I told you from minute one, this was perfect. #selfie

  Rose, thank you for your advice and professional touch, helping me show the various sides of PTSD. I know we didn’t even come close to putting a spotlight on this mental health issue but at least, we tried.

  SSgt Parish Harvey-USMC retired, to my friend and very own ‘Super Ninja Warrior and Warfare Extraordinaire’, thank you for your service, and thank you for your help in making this book all that it could be. Your advice and knowledge are greatly appreciated. #oohrah

  Enticing Journey Promotions, Ena and Amanda, thank you for having patience and supporting me along the way. I value your friendship and work ethics, supporting me through every step of this journey.

  My Betas, thank you for taking time away from your lives to help me live this dream. I never dreamed that so many would help me achieve so much in such a short time. I love y’all.

  My Alphas: Christine, Sallie, Diane, Joyce, Robin, Robyn, Heather, Doreen and Mel, thank you, ladies, for your time and love you show me. Never a complaint, always willing to drop everything to help. I love each of you, dearly.

  Mel Osborne, thank you for your continued support. Love ya, girl.

  Diane Norwood, from teasers to feedback, you support me any way you can, thank you. There aren’t enough words to show my appreciation of all you do. Thank you. Love your face!

  Sallie Miller, you are my heart. I don’t think I could love another person more that isn’t mine. I adore you and appreciate the time and energy you put into all the hard work you do. Thank you.

  Silla Webb, you happen to be the greatest friend a person can have. Your support and mentoring has meant so much to me. The constant care and advice utterly appreciated but most of all, the time you take from your family to help me, goes beyond the pale. Thank you with all my heart, love you girl.

  Christine Strongi, I will never find the words to explain my love for you. You are no longer a friend but family. You haven’t left my side since we met and I’m so very blessed to have you. I will never find a greater friend. Thank you, with all my heart. I love you.

  My girls, I love you all. For your individuality and more so for the love you give my sons. Each being loved by the greatest of modern women that any mother would be honored to have.

  My boys, the best part of us, I love you all. Being your mother is not only an honor but being your friend also is a privilege. Thank you for your love and support, even on the days I don’t deserve it.

  Mom, to the greatest of all women, thank you for being my mother.

  Daddy, I miss you even more today than yesterday and not as much as tomorrow. People say, it gets easier with time but I’ve found, the heart grows fonder and wearier with each passing day. I just can’t seem to heal. I need to hear you tell me, it’s all gonna be okay. Most of all, I need you to tell me you love me. I love you, Dad.

  LU, my love for you grows stronger every day. I’m not sure what I ever did to deserve the love you give me so freely. The doubt that eats at me every minute in life, is only chased away by the light in your eye, when you say, ‘hey, baby’. I will be forever grateful that you stayed with me, through this rollercoaster called life.

  You and me… against the world.