Set Up for Love Read online

  SET UP FOR LOVE

  BY

  VIRNA DePAUL, SUSAN HATLER, VERONICA BLADE

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  Set Up For Love Anthology:

  Wild For Him

  Copyright © 2011 by Virna DePaul

  The Boyfriend Bylaws

  Copyright © 2011 by Susan Hatler

  Blind Date, Checkmate

  Copyright © 2011 by Veronica Blade

  My Last Blind Date

  Copyright © 2011 by Susan Hatler

  All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the copyright owner of this book. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

  License Notes

  This e-book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This e-book may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the author’s work.

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  Set Up For Love Blurbs

  Three stories. Three authors. Three kinds of romance.

  Sweet. Sassy. Sexy.

  Sweet: The Boyfriend Bylaws by Susan Hatler: Will a woman have to follow her best friend’s narrow dating rules in order to find lasting love?

  Melanie Porter has been dumped—again. When others accuse her of “being in love with being in love,” she agrees to let her best friend, Patti, step in and direct her dating life with The Boyfriend Bylaws.

  Sassy: Blind Date, Checkmate by Veronica Blade: Should a woman who’s unable to forget her first love give “happily ever after” one more try?

  Shelby Winters’ one great love went sour. If she can’t feel that way again, why bother? When her best friend sets Shelby up on a blind date with Logan, the one who broke her heart, he pursues her relentlessly, forcing her to make a choice: give her heart what it’s always desired and risk total devastation or shut Logan out and lose her only shot at happiness. To Shelby, it’s a lose-lose situation. Or is it?

  Sexy: Wild For Him by Virna DePaul: Can an uptight prosecutor and a laid-back defense attorney find love despite their opposing agendas?

  Bryn Donovon became a prosecutor for a reason and defense attorney Daniel Mays seems to take his job about as seriously as he does his love life. While straight-laced Bryn can’t deny she’s attracted to the southern charmer, she’s determined to keep her distance. Instead, she ends up finding something she’d lost long ago—a willingness to risk all for love.

  Bonus: My Last Blind Date by Susan Hatler: Should Rachel Price play it safe and spend Valentine’s Day at home with her loyal pooch, Chester, or risk another dating disaster by letting her best friend set her up on a blind date?

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  RAVES

  What people are saying about Susan’s work:

  “The Boyfriend Bylaws is sweet, witty, and oh so very touching. Hatler warms the heart while still bringing the funny.” — Eileen Rendahl, National Bestselling Author

  “Susan Hatler’s “My Last Blind Date” is a totally fun and absolutely delightful short story. Treat yourself to this charming little tale–the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for yourself or anyone who loves romance.” — Patti Berg, USA Today bestselling author

  “Susan Hatler writes stories filled with light-hearted humor and sweet, adorable moments guaranteed to warm your heart and leave you with a contented smile.” — Kimberly Van Meter, contemporary romance author

  “A charming, fun read that will put you in the mood for Valentine’s day.” — Melinda Curtis, award winning romance author

  What people are saying about Veronica’s work:

  “There is something about a man who is famous and wants just a regular ol girl that I like to read about. The chemistry between these two leaps out at you and you really enjoy reading about Shelby resisting the urge to plunge into love.” — Beck’s Book Picks about Blind Date/Checkmate

  “This book is delicious!” — What’s Your Story? Book Reviews about Something Witchy This Way Comes

  What people are saying about Virna’s work:

  “Incredibly well-written, different, and hot. ” — Larissa Ione, NYT bestselling author about Chosen By Blood

  “Virna DePaul is amazing! Chosen By Blood is a unique, hot, spellbinding treat for all paranormal romance fans. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!” — Lori Foster, NYT bestselling author

  “A gripping tale! In Chosen By Blood, Virna DePaul creates the perfect blend of danger, intrigue and romance. You won’t be able to put this book down.” — Brenda Novak, NYT bestselling author

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  EXCERPTS

  The Boyfriend Bylaws

  Rule #1: No giving out your phone number until approved to do so.

  Rule #2: Must obtain permission to accept any date invitation.

  Rule #3: No bringing up marriage, kids or the future.

  Rule #4: No going to first base without authorization.

  Amended Rule #4: No going to first base, or any other base, without authorization.

  Rule #5: No scribbling your first name with some guy’s last name. Ever.

  Rule #6: New rules may be added as Patti Hartley deems necessary.

  Memorize it, live by it, and happy dating!

  . . . .

  “His name is Nick,” I said. “He seems like a total gentleman, not to mention he’s insanely gorgeous. Can I get permission to go on a date with him before he asks me out?”

  Patti scoffed, stretched her leg out, and reached for her right foot. “No way.”

  Why did she have to be so difficult? I was playing by her rules. “What’s the point of waiting until he asks me out, and then calling you? That’s just stupid.”

  “Why should you wait? Let’s see. Brad. Paul. Mike. Marcus. And don’t think I didn’t see the wink your co-worker, Matt, gave you at lunch today.”

  Blind Date, Checkmate

  “No, Logan. I’m not interested. I’d think you’d want your women willing.” My insides knotted when his scent reached my nose, a mixture of after-shave and soap. “I’ll stop by tomorrow and get your deposit check then I’ll open escrow.”

  “Willing?” he asked. “You love me. You want me. The only reason the willingness is lacking is because you believe I don’t return your feelings. But I do. I love you, Shelby.”

  “I judge people by what they do, Logan. And all I know is that we were in love, or so I thought, and you dumped me. You also kissed some random girl and didn’t have the guts to tell me. If you want to convince me how sincere you are, then prove it.”

  The next instant, he pulled me to him by my waist with one hand, reached behind my neck with the other and dove. His mouth closed over mine and I opened as if in a trance, my tongue delving into territory all too familiar. The years melted away as if he’d never been gone. Sweet memories rushed me and I wanted to relive them. I pushed myself against him, taking the kiss deeper. Logan spun us around and bumped my back into the wall. A tiny yelp of pleasure escaped my throat and my pulse quickened as his lips found my neck and my hands snaked up his shirt to touch those delicious abs. But it wasn’t enough. I wrapped my arms around his waist and pressed his hips against mine. Heat coursed threw me and I almost moaned.

>   “I love you, Shelby,” he whispered in my ear.

  Crap. Back to reality. I flattened my palms against his stomach and pushed. “No, you don’t.”

  “I do. And that kiss just proved how much you love me.”

  I snorted. “You’re not that naïve. If every steamy kiss meant true love, people would be getting married left and right.”

  “Ouch.” He covered his heart with one hand. “Cold hearted.”

  “You made me that way. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Snatching my purse, I headed out on wobbly knees, praying he wouldn’t follow. If he pushed any more today, he’d see what a fraud I was.

  Wild For Him

  Tam was right. Daniel Mays knew how to kiss. His lips were a study in contrast. Soft and firm. Tender and voracious. Cool and hot. She moaned as his tongue entered her mouth, teasing her own. Her entire being was suddenly awash in sensation.

  Her heart beat faster.

  Her skin grew hotter.

  Her lips clung to his.

  Her nipples hardened, and she could feel herself getting wet.

  She felt disoriented. And scared. She broke away from him in panic, struggling to catch her breath. “What are you doing here?” she finally asked, embarrassed by the husky alto of her voice.

  Daniel’s own voice was raspy. “I offered to take you to your sister’s engagement dinner. Didn’t Tam tell you?”

  Uh no. Embarrassment and anger washed through her. “She didn’t tell me she’d set me up with you. If I’d known...” She shook her head. “I mean…”

  Daniel nodded. “You mean you never would have opened the door.” He cocked his head. “Why is that?”

  “We work together.”

  “So let’s date together.”

  “No!” She almost yelled it, startling both of them. She trembled with panic, wanting to accept his invitation yet knowing how weak and pathetic that made her.

  He frowned. “Bryn, there’s something between us. That kiss was amazing. I knew it would be. I knew you would be.” He stepped towards her, but she held up her hands.

  “Daniel, stop. It’s not going to happen between us. Nothing is going to happen.”

  He growled in frustration, shoving his hand through his hair. . . .

  Daniel slowly walked towards Bryn, who backed up despite herself. He kept pace with her until she bumped into a wall. He then planted both of his palms above her head and leaned down, staring her in the eyes. He was so close she could see that a gold band encircled his dark pupils. “I’ll go, but this isn’t over yet. Not by a long shot. We’ve tasted each other, Bryn. Just that one taste, and you got me harder than any other woman ever has. Think about how good it was. And how good it’s going to be. Because we’re just getting started.”

  Daniel dropped his heated gaze to her lips. She held her breath. Waiting, secretly praying for him to kiss her. Instead, he pushed himself away from her, walked backwards towards the front door, then turned and left the house.

  Bryn slowly slid down the wall until she was sitting on the floor. With her heart thumping heavily in her chest, she touched her lips with her fingers, closed her eyes, and, just as he’d commanded, thought of how good it had been.

  * * * * *

  THE BOYFRIEND BYLAWS

  by Susan Hatler

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  ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

  Writing a story evokes a plethora of emotions. It’s exhilarating at first—an amazing ride of imagination and creativity meets keyboard. Then comes the editing. This is hard, gut wrenching, and eventually leads to the strong desire to throw my manuscript against the wall. Getting to the point of completion while keeping my sanity (well, most of it) is no small feat and by “The End” there are a number of people who helped me get through.

  First off, smooches to fabulous authors Virna DePaul and Veronica Blade for embarking on this delightful journey that brought us to Set Up For Love.

  I’d like to send big thanks to my writing buds Virna DePaul, Cecilia LeBaron, Rochelle Davisson, Lea Nolan, Nancy Naigle, Tracy Mastaler, and Poppy Reiffin for all of your wise words, feedback, and support.

  I’m so grateful to the incredible writers I’ve met through the Romance Writers of America (www.rwa.org). RWA is a fantastic writing organization and what I’ve learned as a member—from craft to business—has been invaluable.

  Thank you to my sissy, Ellen Price, and my wonderful friends Karen Scofield, Christa Shedd, Vicki Snyder, Carol Ribet, and Kate NallyMadigan for their endless enthusiasm and excitement in my writing progress and adventures.

  Hugs and kisses to Ann Rego who loves everything I write and to Roger Rego for passing down the writing gene. Mom and Dad, you’re the best.

  Much love to Pat and Dan Finn who have cheered me on every step of the way.

  I shudder to think what I’d do without Virna DePaul. Whether we’re brainstorming an idea, sharing a pitfall or triumph, or chatting about fictional characters who mean the world to us…you make everything about the writing journey more fun. You’re the best critique partner and friend a girl could ever ask for and I’m lucky to have you.

  I’m forever thankful to my amazing husband, Mike Hatler. You pick up the slack so I can stay at the keyboard, support my passion with endless sacrifices, and above all you always believe in me. Love you, baby.

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  CHAPTER ONE

  After three glorious weeks of dating Brad Jones, I’d picked out the perfect lingerie and tonight I’d put it to good use. I burst through the front door of Totally Fit, happier than I’d ever been, especially considering it was five-thirty in the morning and I had to teach an aerobics class.

  “What’s the word?” Matt Thompson, my co-worker and friend, sat behind the front counter of the gym reading a book, as usual.

  I dropped my athletic bag on the tattered linoleum floor and set my portable iPod docking station on the counter. “The word of the day is yumzy.”

  He stood, leaned against the counter, and raised a brow. “Yumzy?”

  I thought of my date last night with Brad. We’d gone to the Sacramento Kings game at Arco Arena, which had been super fun. Afterward, we’d had drinks downtown, then taken a romantic moonlit walk to my apartment where things had gotten hot and heavy. Remembering his delicious kisses, I sighed. “Yumzy.”

  Matt drummed his fingers on the bright blue countertop. “Is it safe to assume you’re not talking about food?”

  “Definitely not talking about food.” I shook my head and my ponytail flopped to the opposite shoulder. “Actually, he could be considered dessert.”

  Matt frowned. “Is he that guy you’ve been flirting with over in free weights?”

  “Brad.” I smiled, picturing how our names might look in Monotype Corsiva on our eventual wedding invitations. Melanie Porter and Brad Jones—forever.

  “Mel.” Matt slipped his hands around mine and traced my knuckles in slow circles with his thumbs, sending goose bumps up my neck. I hated that he had that effect on me. “When are you going to give up on other guys and realize I’m the one for you?”

  He loved to flirt but, thanks to Erica, I knew not to take him seriously. Erica Conner, the other aerobics instructor at Totally Fit, had dated Matt a few times after he’d started working here last year. She’d told me, confidentially, that she’d broken it off after finding out he was a player. That was so not my scene, no matter how sweet he could be. “Aren’t you already dating someone?”

  “I’d drop all women for you.”

  “No, really.” A petite brunette, dancing in a red dress, flashed in my mind. “You’re dating that girl. The one you introduced us to at The Oasis a few weeks ago. You know, when The Girls and I were celebrating Erica’s final laser hair removal.”

  “Laser hair removal?” His shoulders jerked as if ants were crawling up his neck. “That’s way more than I needed to know.”

  “Whatever.” I rolled my eyes. “My point is you had a girl with you.”

  “Eileen. That’s over.” He wa
s still holding my hands and caressing my knuckles with the perfect amount of pressure. “So? Would you like to go out? Anywhere you want.”

  A little tingle curled its way up my spine. The guy was truly talented at hand massage and it made me wonder what his other talents might be. But, at twenty-five, I couldn’t afford the distraction—no matter how tempting. Regretfully, I slipped my hands free. “You know, Matt...”

  “I know only what you tell me.”

  He made me laugh, but I refused to fall for someone who wasn’t looking for a serious relationship. Besides, I had Brad now. “I can’t date you.”

  “Sure you can.”

  “Hey.” I tapped his arm, playfully. “You just said you only know what I tell you.”

  He shrugged. “I take it back.”

  “Your word’s your word. You can’t just…” I raised my hands and made air quotes, “take it back.”

  “Too late.” He smiled proudly. “Already did.”

  “Why would you want to go out with me anyway?” I asked casually even though I was secretly dying to know. “I mean, you’re getting a PhD in philosophy and I’m an aerobics instructor. We have zilch in common.”

  I recalled the time he’d told me how Plato fascinated him. In response, I’d confessed that, as a kid, I’d eaten my fair share of play dough and loved the salty taste. Matt explained that Plato had been a Greek philosopher. To his credit, he hadn’t laughed at my mistake, but I’d obviously supplied him with enough ammo to fire off an entirely new batch of blonde jokes.

  “Are you kidding, Mel? Why wouldn’t someone want to go out with you? You’re smart, beautiful, and you brighten up a room just by walking into it.” He seemed deadly serious, which was so unlike him. Then, he smiled, lightening the mood again. “You even make cleaning toilets fun.”