by Lex Martin
Was twenty-five.
Goddamn it.
“Mom, what needs to be done in Texas?” I ask gently.
She shudders, and I wrap an arm around her. “I don’t even know,” she whispers. The tears start again, and I realize there are funerals to plan. Belongings to pack up. Legal issues to address.
“Did Melissa have any family?”
My mom hiccups. “Probably. They should get the farm. It was... it was her father’s before he passed. Or her uncle’s or something. Melissa’s friend is there now. Kate or Katherine or maybe it’s Sandra? But she’s watching the property.”
Nodding, I rub her shoulder and do what I’ve always done. “I’ll take care of everything in Texas. You just look after Dad. I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
Purchase Shameless.
Acknowledgments
I hope you enjoyed Logan and Joey’s book as much as I loved writing it! One of the best parts of my job is getting to reminisce about some of the places I’ve lived. My favorite vacations as a kid were spent at Port Aransas, and I went into this story knowing Logan and Joy needed a good romp at the coast.
On another personal note, Baby Noah is named for my best friend’s son. I met Angela in middle school when I blocked her view in class with my big hair. (And probably kept her from paying attention with my big mouth.) Our special brand of crazy reminds me of that line from Stand By Me, “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12.” Love ya, girl!
I have several people to thank for helping me finish Breathless, a story that’s been on my mind since Logan first strolled onto the pages of Reckless.
My husband is the reason I remember to shower when I’m writing. He knows that if I start to cry, I’ve either been a hermit for too long, or I’m writing the epilogue. (I always cry when I write the end!) If you’re ever charmed by my male characters, I’m proud to say the hubs provides endless inspiration. He’s an amazing parent to our twin daughters and the best friend and spouse a girl could have.
Last year was tough for logistical reasons as we prepared to move across the country, but my family totally came to the rescue. They’re the reason I didn’t lose my mind! (Not to mention, my mom is the reason I was able to finish editing Breathless!) I may write about vile parents from time to time, but mine kick ass.
When life gets extra crazy, I’m reminded how lucky I am to have an amazing agent. Kimberly Brower is the best person to have in your corner!
Once again, Lauren Perry took some beautiful photos, and Najla Qamber worked her magic in designing my gorgeous cover. RJ Locksley, thanks for your edits and eagle eye!
Candi Kane PR, Kylie and Jo at Give Me Books, The Dirty Laundry Review, and Jenn and Brooke at Social Butterfly have my undying gratitude for their help in promote this release.
Whitney Barbetti and Leslie McAdam always read my early drafts, and their enthusiasm gives me that extra boost of energy I need as I reach the final stretch of a book. They talk me off the ledge and pat my hair when I’m eyeball-deep in edits and hating life. You two rock!
A huge thanks to my amazing team of beta readers: Victoria Denault, Serena McDonald, Kristie White Bivens, Kelly Latham, Erica Christofferson, Amy Vox Libris, Stacy Kestwick, Becky Grover, and Elizabeth Clinton. I couldn’t do what I do without your tough love!
Serena McDonald gets another shout out for being an outstanding PA. She’s helped me with my Facebook group and ARC team for years, and I’m so grateful for everything she does for me!
I’m sending a big hug to Staci Hart for her help with my blurb. I can write a full-length book but struggle with blurbs. It’s sad but true.
I really appreciate the daily inspiration from Shop Talkers. They raise the bar, and I’m in awe of their skills and their take-no-prisoners beast mode.
To my readers and the many bloggers who helped promote Logan and Joey’s book, I see your posts and likes and comments and appreciate each and every one! Thank you for taking the time to pimp out my books.
Wildcats, I love y’all to pieces! *ass smacks*
Would you like a story for Isaiah, the extreme sport junkie, and Liberty? Let me know!
xo,
Lex
Also by Lex Martin
Texas Nights Series
Shameless (Kat & Brady)
Reckless (Tori & Ethan)
Breathless (Joey & Logan)
* * *
The Dearest Series:
Dearest Clementine (Clementine & Gavin)
Finding Dandelion (Dani & Jax)
Kissing Madeline (Maddie & Daren)
* * *
Cowritten with Leslie McAdam
All About the D (Josh & Evie)
Surprise, Baby! (Kendall & Drew)
About the Author
Lex Martin is the USA Today bestselling author of the Texas Nights series, the Dearest series, and All About the D, books she hopes her readers love but her parents avoid. To stay up-to-date with her releases, subscribe to her newsletter or join her Facebook group, Lex Martin’s Wildcats.
www.lexmartinwrites.com
