Reclaim: (A Redemption Novel)

by Marley Valentine

  “No,” I feel her pulse quicken, as she whispers, “but I want it anyway.”

  “So does that mean you’re going to tell me what went down between the two of you?” Lior asks, interrupting my thoughts.

  “There’s nothing much to tell,” I say truthfully. “We both wanted casual—”

  “And she wants more?” he asks, cutting me off.

  “No,” I correct him. “Neither of us do.”

  “So what the fuck am I missing here? You’re both down to be friends who fuck, but you want to put a stop to it because…?”

  “I don’t know, man. We’ve had a few run-ins that could turn tense, and I don’t want to put Evie in an awkward situation.” Bringing up Evie is a low blow, but I also know she’s is Lior’s priority, and as soon as her name left my mouth his interest in Court and I would take a turn.

  What I don’t, but don’t tell him, is there’s so much more to Courtney than sex. Unfortunately it’s the only side of her she’ll let me see. She comes in the night with vulnerability and passion, her body open and willing. I know what it’s like to run from your problems, better yet, I’m great at ignoring them. But I can’t fall into another co-dependent relationship. I won’t be that guy again.

  Lior shakes his head at me while taking another sip of his beer. Slamming the empty bottle on the table, he stands up. “Whatever, man. If you’re not going to explain yourself, that’s fine with me, but I can’t stand another minute in this place. It’s like the playboy mansion, only without the mansion and money. And definitely more old men.”

  “Fine.” Standing up I grab my jacket from the back of the chair. “Where do you want to go?” I ask, making our way to the exit.

  “Dude, for coming all the way here, you owe me a feast.”

  “Angelo’s then?” I ask, knowing he’ll agree in a heartbeat. I've never known someone to eat so much pizza from the same restaurant, more than once a week.

  “You know it.”

  Acknowledgments

  Andrew, thank you for your patience with this book, and for researching whatever I needed, when I needed. Writing takes me away from you guys, and you both just roll with it. I love you. Steph, my biggest cheerleader and the best sister a girl could ask for. Thank you for all your help with this book, and every book.

  My dream team, this one was rough, but you stuck by me as usual, and I’ve never been more grateful.

  Aubrey.

  This Cover. This Cover. This Cover. This Cover.

  The internet also thanks you for this cover.

  You are a talented cover artist, and an even better friend. <5

  Celia, you saved Jagger and Emerson. I owe you, but you should still name your baby after me.

  Diane. This is our first book release together, and I already know it’s going to be the best. You have helped me with so much in such a short space of time. I can’t thank you enough.

  Steph, Jacob, Laura, Tanya, Angela, Jodi and Erin, I can’t thank you enough for all the effort you put into beta reading this book. You put up with my craziness and you’re irreplaceable.

  Michelle Clay. I think I’m going to keep you.

  Autumn Grey, Kacey Shea, Bianca Smith, Brenda Travers and Donna Elsegood and Ella Fields. You women are my constants. Always willing to listen. Always willing to help.

  ellie McLove. There are no words for what you put up with without complaint. Your heart is huge and I am indebted to you always.

  Laura from Hawkeyes Proofing, the best thing about you I can send you anything at anytime and you read it. With so many of your own deadlines you made this book a priority. Thank you.

  Every one in Marley’s MOFO’s you guys are my people and this wouldn’t be have as fun without your love and support. The group grows every day. More friends, more books, more love and more Charlie. I love you motherfuckers.

  Enticing Journey, I love working with you. Not sure if you would say the same about me though LOL

  If I forgot someone. I’m sorry. I still love you, and you know the drill… Eat McDonalds on the regular and stalk Charlie Hunnam.

  Much Peace and Love.