The Running Series Complete Collection: 3-Book Set plus Bonus Novella by Suzanne Sweeney Read Free Book Online Page A

house for me?  You’ve gone to so much trouble to repair my injured ankle. I wouldn’t want to ruin all your hard work by walking too far on it too quickly.”
    “Oh, sure.  Toss me your keys.”  He sounds disappointed.  “You don’t have to leave, you know.  I haven’t even given you the grand tour of the house yet.  There’s so much more I’d love to show you.”
    “Really, I have to go.  Sorry.  Thanks for the offer, though.”
    “If you’re sure I can’t tempt you into staying,” he raises his eyebrows in a goofy way that makes me giggle.  “I’ll be right back with your ride, Cinderella.”
    “My car is a lot like a pumpkin, Prince Charming.  You should have no trouble finding it.  Just hit the button on the key chain and it will light up for you.” 
    Together, the three of us walk out the front door.  Evan quickly returns with my car and opens the door for me like a true gentleman.  I put Maddy in first and I turn to Evan before getting in.  I’ve really enjoyed my morning here and I don’t want it to end.  I just want to get one last look at him before I leave.
    He puts out his hand and I reflexively reach out to shake his.  Grabbing my hand, he turns it over and kisses the back of my hand.  “It’s been a pleasure, Juliette,” and he releases me from his grasp.  My heart is beating so quickly, I swear he can see my physical reaction to his touch.
    I watch Evan walk back into his house.  He pauses at the doorway and gives me one final smile before he disappears.

Chapter Four
    Prevailing Winds

    F ortunately, when I get home, Auggie’s nowhere to be found.  I don’t think I could handle facing him right now.  What would I tell him?  I’m not even sure how I feel about today’s events.  Would he even believe me?
    I have a few hours until I have to be at work.  It’s probably a good idea to stay off my ankle as much as possible, so I decide on a nice long bubble bath.  I put my iPhone music on shuffle and settle in for a relaxing soak.  Closing my eyes, I allow myself to relax in the aromatic scents that permeate the air. 
    My mind is clear and I begin to sort the events of this morning into logical perspective.  A handsome, wealthy, successful man came to the aid of an injured stranger on the beach.  Any man with a good moral compass would have done the same thing.  He entertained me, fed me, and gave me shelter until I was well enough to leave.  Again, signs that indicate he is a gentleman and a generally kind person.  Then again, he was definitely flirting with me, big time.  But ... he didn’t ask me for my number or even my last name.  The final verdict? I met a nice stranger today who showed me kindness and compassion and I should not make any more of it than it actually was.
    The music shuffles and a P!nk song starts playing so I lie back in the tub to enjoy.  The song is called, “Try”, and this time when I hear it, I truly listen to the lyrics.  OK – now I’m recalculating my conclusions.  There was definitely a desire and I think we both felt it.  I’ve had my heart broken before and it hurt, but it didn’t destroy me.  If I see Evan again, should I try?  Maybe.  The good thing is I don’t have to decide right now.

    I t’s Wednesday night and the bar is full.  Emmy, Derek and I are behind the bar on the patio again.  The DJ is playing a good mix of music and I find myself dancing behind the bar as I wait on my customers.  My ankle is strong and sure, thanks to the healing touch of my knight in shining armor.  With each new song, the three of us really begin to enjoy ourselves.  The tip jar is getting fuller, which encourages us on.
    Derek doesn’t need any help to fill up his tip jar.  He’s tall, nearly six feet tall, and is built like a runner.  Not afraid to flirt with the women, he draws crowds and keeps them coming back.  A nice dance mix comes on, and Derek whisks me into his arms.  He’s lithe and graceful on his