All of Me

Electricity on the high seas...

Declaring a “dating hiatus” was an easy decision for teacher Karen Morris. She intends to unwind and enjoy a luxurious Caribbean cruise without the presence of her cheating ex-boyfriend. But surprisingly all it takes is the deliciously sculpted form of chivalrous businessman Damian Bradshaw to turn Karen’s head and change her mind...

Damian’s friends are determined to save him from his widowerhood—and self-imposed celibacy. But no one is more shocked than Damian when Karen catches his attention and awakens his desire. Something about her ignites an insatiable need that neither of them can deny. The chemistry is inexplicable. But once back on dry land, real life awaits—along with their pasts. Will the promise of a bright future be enough to rehabilitate their reluctant hearts?

Karen looked up at him. “Penny for your thoughts.”

“I was just thinking about you. Us. How much I’m enjoying your company.”

She smiled. “You’re not so bad yourself.”

Damian reached up and stroked a finger down her cheek and lowered his head. He hovered close enough for their breath to mingle, waiting, seeking permission. She hesitated for a brief moment, then tilted her head upward. He touched his mouth to hers, once, twice. Her lips parted beneath his, and he slid his tongue inside. He hadn’t kissed a woman like this in a while—five years to be exact—but it didn’t take long for him to catch up. She tangled her tongue with his, and he groaned deep in his throat. He turned, leaned against the rail, widened his stance and pulled her between his legs.

Karen wrapped her arms around his neck, grabbed the back of his head and held him in place. Damian had no problem with that. He had no intention of letting go—not until he got his fill, which in his estimation might take all night. He angled his head and deepened the kiss.

Dear Reader,

You met Karen Morris in Just to Be with You as Janae’s outspoken best friend. Having suffered one heartbreak too many, she vows to stay away from men. But when Damian Bradshaw comes to her rescue, her vow takes a flying leap.

Widowed at a young age, Damian can’t imagine falling in love again. His character grew out of witnessing someone very close to me go through a similar experience but eventually find love again. It was a joy to watch Damian’s heart warm to love a second time. With her alluring personality and passion for life, Karen is his perfect match. Though she’s hesitant, he’s determined to make her his. It doesn’t hurt that the chemistry between them sizzles!

I hope you enjoy Karen and Damian’s journey to love.

Visit me at www.sheryllister.com or Facebook (Author Sheryl Lister) to find out what I’m working on next.

Blessings,

Sheryl

All of Me

Sheryl Lister

www.millsandboon.co.uk

SHERYL LISTER has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-size desserts. She holds a BS in occupational therapy and a post-professional MS in occupational therapy from San Jose State University. She resides in California and is a wife, mother of three and pediatric occupational therapist.

For Brandi

Acknowledgments

To my Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love, mercy and grace.

To my real-life hero, Lance Lister, I’ll love you to the end of time.

To my girls, family and friends, thank you for your love and unwavering support.

A special thank-you to Sharon Blount and Building Relationships Around Books book club.

Thank you for your support and encouragement. You rock!

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Epilogue

Copyright

Chapter 1

Karen Morris stood off to the side in the Sapphire Room, one of the cruise ship’s private dining rooms, smiling as her best friend approached. “Girl, you look so beautiful.” Janae Simms had just exchanged wedding vows with popular R & B artist and producer Terrence “Monte” Campbell.

Janae smoothed a hand over the bodice of her white chiffon strapless A-line gown with a beaded motif accent at the hip. “Thanks.”

“So, how does it feel to be a married woman?”

“I never thought I’d be this happy.”

“Yeah. If that smile gets any wider, you’ll be competing with the sun.”

Janae giggled and looped her arm in Karen’s. “I’m so glad you’re my friend.”

“Me, too.”

“Come on. You need to help me eat some of my cake. We’ll have a chance to talk more over lunch Monday.”

“Lunch? Aren’t you and Terrence going to be a little busy this week?”

Janae smiled and wiggled her eyebrows. “We’ll be plenty busy, but he has to rehearse for his show that’s on Wednesday night.” He was one of several performers on the weeklong jazz cruise. “So, are we on for lunch?”