Domenico - Chasing Desire

Copyright 2014 Jennifer Domenico

All rights reserved.

Formatting by Inkstain Interior Book Designing

www.inkstainformatting.com

ISBN: 1499376928

ISBN-13: 978-1499376920

To dreamers and the people that support them.

During the process of writing this book, Ive learned that I have a ton of really supportive, caring people in my life. I have an amazing group of friends, both in my book world and my everyday world that helped and encouraged me along the way and I am grateful for your friendship.

To my beta team- without you this book literally wouldnt be finished and certainly wouldnt be the book it finally became. I went through many rounds with this book and each part of that journey helped mold the story into what it is today. I appreciate the candid, enthusiastic, sometimes constructive criticism as it helps me improve my craft. Thank you to everyone who even read one page of this book and provided feedback.

There was a small group that read this book at least three times and did so with a willing spirit. Allison, Emma, Megan, and Beth- I cant thank you enough.

To my PA, Beth who sacrifices sleep and puts up with me and my countless visions for trailers and teasers. She produces a consistently amazing product every time. Youre the best!

To my PR, Damaris. I really thank you for everything youve done to support me and my work and Im happy our paths have crossed.

To my friend, N, that inspired this book. It was a crazy talk one day that planted the initial idea in my mind and eventually resulted in Braydens story.

Finally, to the women that make the book beautiful. Nad ge Richards with Inkstain Interior Book Designing for amazing formatting, Ashley Argyle with Inktip Editing that took my words and polished them into something shiny, and Laura Hidalgo with Bookfabulous Designs for the amazing cover design. Along with those ladies, Id also like to thank Brittany and Leland Hertig for modeling and photographing the beautiful cover image that graces this book.

Its over, Savannah. My words are slow and measured. I know this isnt going to go well, but I have no choice. Im done.

What? she asks, her voice nearing a shriek.

Averting my eyes, I sign the credit card slip and start planning my exit. Some would say it is cowardly of me to dump a girl in public, but I say its just smart. I have no time or interest in a drawn out goodbye over a relationship that should have ended weeks ago.

You heard me. We had a good time, but its run its course. We both know it.

No, I dont know it. Is that why you took me out tonight? To dump me?

I glance around the room as curious patrons begin to notice the building drama.

Essentially, yes. I stand and motion for her to join me, but she remains seated. This isnt going to be as easy as Id hoped. Lets step outside, Savannah.

No. You cant tell me what to do. She crosses her arms like a spoiled child and glares at me.

Dont make a scene, I say through gritted teeth.

I pull her by the arm in an attempt to escort her out. As soon as she stands, a smirk crosses her lips as the palm of her hand comes into direct contact with my face.

The stinging sound resonates through the small restaurant dining room. I place my own hand over the tingling skin where Savannah just smacked the shit out of me. Looking around, I am greeted with interested and concerned expressions and I see the restaurant manager heading towards me, his lips pursed and brow furrowed. I look back at the woman who just thought it necessary to slap me in public.

I thought we had something!

This is not the time or the place to discuss this.

I think it is! She pulls away from me. Everyone, Savannah loudly calls. My boyfriend is breaking up with me!

I rub my forehead. Seriously? I dont know when fuck buddy turned into boyfriend.

Sir, youll have to take this disturbance outside, the manager says.

Im trying.

Hes done, he says! she screams again. What kind of man dumps his girlfriend in public?

Sir! the manager repeats.

Frowning, I grab Savannahs arm and drag her out the door.

How dare you embarrass me like that!

Embarrass you? Im the only who was humiliated. Tell me why, Brayden. Why wasnt I good enough to keep?

I have a million reasons in my head, but they all end in the same result. Me and relationships dont mix. The only reason Savannah lasted as long as she did was her creative games in the bedroom.

I told you in the beginning that I wasnt ready to settle down and all you ever talk about is marriage ideas and how many kids you want. This little show didnt help your cause.

Okay, so Ill stop. Just give me another chance.

Her eyes begin to well with tears as my frustration mounts. This scene needs to end, and quickly.

Its best if we just part ways.

Savannah rushes me in another attempt to smack me, but I move out of the way to avoid it. She falls forward and is quickly caught by a valet attendant. Now, my usually attractive dinner date is a crying, angry mess.

I hate you, Brayden! I never want to see you again!

Ah, the exact response I was hoping for.

Thats fine. I wasnt expecting more. I hand the valet attendant several twenties. Call her a cab, please?

He nods and I walk to the other side of the sidewalk to wait for my car. When I look back, Savannah is wiping her tears and talking on the phone to someone. Just as I get into my car, she looks up and flips me off. I chuckle to myself, knowing I deserve it.

Driving back to my place, I think back to what just took place. Shaking my head, I cant believe she fucking slapped me. I knew she had a hot temper, but I underestimated it. Doesnt she know it could have been worse? I could have had sex with her again and then dumped her. I let her keep her dignity. Most of it, anyway.

At least Im done with that. She was getting too clingy and thinking we were becoming a thing, even though I warned her I wasnt Mr. Right. I warn every woman and they all think they can change me. I dont know what it would take or what kind of woman would make me want to commit to just her, but I honestly dont think she exists.

Thats fine with me, anyway. The last thing I want is to be tied down and miserable with one woman. Perfect love exists only in movies. Im cool being me and living my life. I learned at a very early age that love is for assholes, and no one has been able to convince me otherwise. No one ever will.

S tanding on my balcony, I drink my coffee and stare at the nearby ocean. These morning hours are when I clear my head and plan my day. Today is my presentation to Stunning Lady Cosmetics and I know that I need to ace it. I close my eyes and rehearse it in my head. Every detail has to be perfect.