By Invitation Only
Page 20
Quinn stepped back, his hands cupping her elbows. “You feel that way about me?”
She thought back to their day—and nights—together. How he’d enjoyed life and lived every moment to the fullest. His enthusiasm had been contagious. By comparison, her life seemed dull and routine.
The monk’s love for the Mayan woman had completely disrupted his world. They’d had to flee for their lives and start over in a strange city. But their love for each other couldn’t be denied.
Peyton had a small circle of friends, but how many weekends could one spend playing Trivial Pursuit? Life with Quinn had been exciting and unexpected. But he was also responsible and caring.
She’d experienced more joy with Quinn this past weekend than ever before in her life. And more pain. Did opening oneself up to emotions always have to be painful? In just these few short moments with Quinn, she’d somehow let go of her anger at her father. Years of pain dissolved.
Maybe that was the secret. To be open to life and tenderness, one had to be open to terror and pain, as well. But it was worth it to feel this kind of…love?
She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him close. “I’m terrified, but so alive. I want to take a chance on us. I want to jump off a cliff with you again.”
He grinned. “You like living life on the edge?”
She returned his smile. “It’s exciting.” Some things were worth all the drama and crisis.
Taking a deep breath, he glanced heavenward. “I’ve created a monster.”
“Hey.” She pretended to pout. “I was crashing weddings before I ever met you.”
“Weddings, offices… That’s twice you’ve crashed into my life, Monahan.”
“Hmm, maybe you should send me an engraved invitation next time.” Pulling his mouth to hers, she kissed him.
ISBN: 978-1-4592-0779-0
BY INVITATION ONLY
Copyright © 2011 by Harlequin Books S.A.
The publisher acknowledges the copyright holders of the individual works as follows:
EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
Copyright © 2011 by Laurie Vanzura
PRIVATE PARTY
Copyright © 2011 by Etherington, Inc.
SECRET ENCOUNTER
Copyright © 2011 by Juliet L. Burns
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Table of Contents
EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
PRIVATE PARTY
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
SECRET ENCOUNTER
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6