Date Published: 07-07-2026
Publisher: Dream Weaver Press
orange groves. After the recent ending of a turbulent relationship, she vows
to keep her professional and personal life separate, even though she’s
attracted to the man who holds her family’s fate in the palm of his hands.
Serious-minded banker, David Cole, has two goals- collecting on the delinquent
ranch account and resisting his attraction to the unpredictable and beautiful
Elaine Cole. When a series of circumstances brings them together, they must
decide if they will continue to suppress their emotions or succumb to passion
and take a chance on a forever love.
This captivating tale is a stirring blend of romance, suspense, and family
drama, perfect for readers who crave richly drawn characters, heartfelt
emotion, and the tension of real-world stakes. Will Elaine secure the future
of Hartland Orchards, or will the challenges she faces prove insurmountable?
Dive into a story of ambition, loyalty, and love, and experience a journey
where every decision carries weight, every relationship matters, and every
secret has the potential to change everything.
“If I have to wait until Monday for him to repair the car, I’ll
need to find a hotel.”
“There’s one inn and one bed and breakfast in town and
they’re both completely booked months in advance.” His eyes
twinkle and he laughs the deep, echoing laugh that I’m starting to get
use to. “I’m not making this up. You can call and check for
yourself, if you don’t believe me. Strawberry Festival is a big deal and
people travel from out of town to come and enjoy the festivities. You’ll
have to spend the night with me.”
The last thing I need right now is to spend the night with David. With the
undeniable attraction between the two of us, I know exactly what will happen.
My vow to not mix work and my social life has completely gone haywire, because
here I am sitting in the cozy intimacy of his car. Betsy is on the way to the
mechanic’s garage and I’m stuck in a remote little town that I
never knew existed until a week ago. On top of that I’m with the most
magnetic man I’ve ever met, who manages to make me feel emotions that
are simultaneously new, exciting and frightening.
“I’m okay with that.” He’s the kind of man that I can
trust. It’s me I’m more worried about. If we are going to be in
close proximity, I’m not certain that I can keep my hands to myself.
“Do you have a two-bedroom apartment in Littleton?’ I try to sound
nonchalant.
“No, I don’t.” He has a twinkle in his eyes. “I have a
one bedroom.”
“Oh,” I sigh, resigned to the fact that this is going to be a
super challenging weekend. “We’ll have to make the best of it
then, won’t we?”
He throws his head back and lets out a deep, robust laugh.
“What’s so funny?” Here I am getting all sweaty, nervous and
yes, even a little aroused, thinking about the possibility of sharing a bed
with him and he’s laughing like its a joke.
“Okay.” He gains control of himself—finally, casting a more
serious expression in my direction. “You should have seen the look on
your face. As if it would be torture to have to share a bed with me.”
“That’s what’s so funny?” I glare at his remarkably
even features. If only he knew that I was wondering what kind of underwear he
wore, boxers, briefs or God forbid, that the man slept in the nude.
“Better that you don’t try to read my mind. Although, I’m
glad to see that you have a good sense of humor.”
“Of course I do.” He gives me an odd look, and his words are
slightly defensive. “Who doesn’t have a sense of humor?”
“Can we stick to the subject?” I tap my fingers on my leg and l
glance at him inquisitively. “So…we’ll be sharing a room,
is basically what you’re saying?”
About the Author
Dalia Dupris is a recipient of the RWA Spectrum Award and is a two-time EMMA
Award winning author. She has BA in English Literature and Master’s
degree in Social Work. In her spare time, she enjoys bike riding along the
California coast with her husband and hiking with her daughter. She loves
hearing from her readers. Their words of encouragement inspire her to continue
creating memorable characters and compelling stories. Subscribe to her website
for a chance to learn more about Dalia and her books at http://www.daliadupris.com.
Pinterest: @daliadupris
SSLYblog 