River Barlowe is kind, beautiful, and smart. She has a childhood best friend, Zach Grey, who happens to be a sexy, smart, rich, well fit guy. He has a secret though, he's been in love with her since elementary. They just graduated from high school and are off to the same College along with two other friends. Unfortunately, their friendship will face challenges the moment they step foot on the college campus. A frat party takes place two days before classes start. All newcomers are welcome. Well of course they are, because we all know what happens to fresh meat…they become bait for hungry, cute, horny predators. River is peer pressured by her friends to go. There she will encounter a gorgeous football player, Alec Madden. A boy who captures her attention and becomes Zach's nightmare. Will their friendship withstand the bumps in the road? Will River fall for the pretty playboy or will she realize that love was the boy who stood with her all those years? She has a decision to make, one that won’t be easy, but one that will seal her destiny. ***Standalone Book***
View MoreRiver
“It’s so muggy out here!” I whined as I carried a box full of my junk to my Dad’s Toyota 4 Runner.
Texas was the worst state to live in during the summer in my opinion. The humidity was gross and sticky, and the inferno-sizzling temperatures only made it worse. Even with a tank top and shorts, I was sweating like a pig.
“God, whatever you have baking in the oven, I think it’s done!” I yelled out to the four winds. Dad chuckled behind me.
“How many more boxes do you still have left, smalls?” He asked, handing me a bottle of water.
“Thanks! About 2 more and I’m done.” I replied, wiping the sweat off my forehead with my shirt. I opened the bottle and gulped the water down, almost choking when I felt it go down the wrong hole. I coughed hard.
“That’s what you get for chugging it down like that.” He laughed, patting my back. I gave him a death glare.
We walked back into the house heading to my room. Picking up a box, I stopped, and gave my room one last glance, “Nope, I won’t miss it.”
“You’re not going to miss home? Not even me?” He asked, acting like I wounded him.
“Of course, I’ll miss you. I'll miss my home too…it's just, I want to see what’s out there. You know the adult life you tried protecting me from,” I paused and sighed, “Dad, this house has so many beautiful memories, but also sad ones.” I frowned.
I missed my Mom so much.
There were many times I found Dad looking at her pictures with silent tears. Hard nights were difficult to avoid when I could hear him crying for her. Saying he missed her was an understatement. It must have been so hard to lose the love of his life in the blink of an eye because that’s how it happened. I blinked for what seemed a millisecond and she was gone.
She was taken from us during a hot summer, 12 years ago. I live close to the San Jacinto River, here in a small town called Crosby, a suburb of Houston. I was swimming in the river, in a private beach area that was only reserved for homeowners who lived in my neighborhood.
I was already warned by my parents to stay close to the edge, but that day the undercurrent was strong. I screamed the second I felt like I was being pulled under. Mom happened to be watching me standing close to the shore, while Dad was getting something out of the car a couple of yards away. She screamed out his name before diving into the water.
He turned around to see what the commotion was about, but the scene before him struck fear deep into his soul. He ran so fast and jumped in. Mom was able to push me towards him, but it was too late for her. It took seconds for the current to drag her under.
She never came back up.
My dad roared begging people to help, but it was no use. No one would take their chances and there weren’t that many people around. People with jet skis and boats were being flagged down to help search, but it was no use. The water was murky, a dirty brown color, unable to see through.
What was supposed to be an enjoyable day, just the three of us, turned into a nightmare we could never shake away. Only two came home that night.
For many decades, the San Jacinto River has claimed so many lives, young and old.
She was only 33 years old when the river claimed her life. Two days later, her body was found close to the ship channel. It was the hardest day of our lives.
On the day of her funeral, I remember looking up at the sky and asking God to take good care of her. I never once blamed Him for what happened. I just couldn’t understand why it happened to us, but then again, I was too young to understand that freak accidents happened anywhere, anytime, and on any given day. We won’t ever know why and how to prevent it.
As the saying goes, ‘Tomorrow is never promised’.
I felt Dad’s thumb wipe my cheek. I hadn’t realized I was crying.
At least I know that when I’m gone, he won’t be alone. He started dating this cute, sexy Latina from work. He works in the refineries close to home. They looked like they were hitting it off and honestly, they meshed well together.
My Father is handsome even at the age of 45 women gawked and winked at him everywhere we went. He has light brown hair, blue eyes, and a muscular body. He’s 5 '11 and loves to work out, and I mean almost every day. What started as keeping me busy to wear me out, worked. He had me in defense classes and soon I became fit and toned, eating whatever I wanted because going to the gym helped me maintain my figure. I became one of those gym rats.
“Okay, so are you all set?” Dad asked. “Yes,” I replied.
“Dad, take care of my baby, please. If you harm her or scratch her in any way…I’ll take it out on your Roadrunner.” I glared and then cackled. He hates it when I call his Toyota that.
On my sixteenth birthday, my only request was for him to buy me a motorcycle. No parties or anything, just a motorcycle. I loved dirt bike riding and getting on buggies and here in Crosby, we have a lot of mud, dirt, trees, and nature to keep us busy. If you weren’t dirt bike riding, then you were on buggies going through mud and pools of water.
I wanted to upgrade my dirt bike for a motorcycle instead. So Dad bought me a Kawasaki 600.
She was a beauty to begin with. After riding her for almost 2 years I decided to upgrade to an even faster bike. I traded her in for a Kawasaki H2R. She was matte black and I was in love. She made me feel free and her speed was an addictive hedonistic experience. Dad was upset at first, but who was he trying to kid, the man was itching to ride her too.
I got envious glances from girls and side-eyed approval from boys. I rode her to school when I could, except for rainy days or icy frigid temperatures which Houston only gets in January or February. The icy days lasted one to three days at the most. Not like I could anyway, a little ice and any temperature falling under 35°, and schools closed.
Yup, that’s Houston for ya. Just don’t get me started when it rains. That’s a whole different topic. Either way, who am I kidding when schools close, I get to sleep in.
We exchanged vehicles in the meantime because he was scared of me riding that far out with my bike. It was only 3 and a half hours to get to Austin. Not to mention…where the heck would I put my stuff in?
Two weeks ago, we were over there getting furniture for my apartment. It felt good when the lady handed me my keys to my new place. It was a milestone in my life to remember. All I needed to do on my own was add my personal touch and essentials.
“I will Riv, Abby loves your bike.” He smirked and wiggled his eyebrows. I stoically glared at him.
I arched an eyebrow, “Don’t be doing nasty things on my bike, Dad. Anyways, Zach is already on his way. I’m gonna go ahead and go. We are gonna meet at the Buc-ee’s in Waller.”
If you haven’t been to Texas, Buc-ee’s are Texas-sized gas stations. It’s more than just a convenience store. They have everything you can think of. Look it up, you’ll see. They ain’t lying when they say everything in Texas is big.
“Your boyfriend? You might as well just stop hiding that from me, Riv's, I don’t believe that you two could stay friends that long and not feel anything for each other. I can tell he likes you and not just like…but L-I-K-E-S you.” I jeered at him for making that statement.
“Eww! What is wrong with you–...no he doesn’t– you know what never mind, sometimes I don’t understand most of the stuff that comes out of that mouth of yours, old man.” I said stoically. He cackled and slapped his knee.
“Okay, okay, sorry honey…come here and give your old man a hug, smalls!” I reached out and hugged him tightly. “I’m gonna miss you kiddo. Have fun but not too much fun. Also, make sure whoever you meet wraps it before they tap it!”
My face paled, “LALALALALA! I can’t hear you, Dad!!!” I yelled out, covering my ears.
“Okay, okay…” He chuckled. “Stop before all the neighbors come out and hear you yelling like a crazy chic.” He pulled me in his embrace and hugged me hard. “I love you. Be careful, baby girl. You are all I have left. Kick butt if you have to and don’t you, ‘give the other cheek’ like Jesus said if someone tries to hurt you. I want you back in one piece.” He said in a serious tone and I couldn’t help but laugh.
“You know I will, Dad. What’s years of training if I don’t put it to good use? I can take care of myself and you know it. I’ll call you when I get there. Besides, playing basketball had to man me up, those girls are tough.”
He chuckled, “I love you old man, but this chic here, has to go.” I kissed his cheek and got in the vehicle, “By the way, don’t forget to bring my baby soon. I’ll be waiting for my girl.” I shouted as I rolled out the driveway. He nodded and blew a kiss.
I’m going to miss him so much.
_______
I was listening to my Christian station but had to switch it out when the station went out of range. So I played ‘Standing Still by Jewel’. I loved the romance and girly songs about love, breakups, and heartbreak that’s why I played ‘Torn by Natalie Imbruglia’ right after. Those songs were to my liking.
An hour and a few minutes later, I was at the Buc-ee’s gas station. I found a pump unoccupied and parked right next to it. The plan was to trail behind Zach so we could get there at the same time.
Zach Grey is my cute best friend. I always wondered why he had short relationships throughout high school since he had the looks. Smart, funny, and good-looking were a great combination. He reminds me of a sexy young Charlie Hunnam. He had light brown hair, cut short, and green with a hint of brown orbs. He was lean, not bulky, but fit with just the right amount of muscle, and was taller than me, like 6’1. I’m only 5’5.
He was overprotective and because of that, we did almost everything together. Our friends always told me that he liked me, but I never believed them because he never said anything to me.
They would tell me that I was the reason why his girlfriends broke up with him, but when I would question him, he would give me a very different story.
I picked up my phone and dialed his number, “Hey you! Where you at, homie? Oh wait…is that you? Dang, you got out of the car like a freaking celebrity.” I cackled.
“Shut up. Come here, babe.” He always called me babe and the girls hated it. You know the ones that weren’t my friends. Those that were, always gave me the ‘uh-huh, I’m telling you’ look.
I got out and headed towards him but then noticed him frown. “Why are you dressed like that?” He questioned me, giving me an impassive look. “Wha–what’s wrong with my clothes?”
I was confused, looking down at what I had on. I had light denim shorts, a black tank top, and my black and white Converse. I had my hair up in a messy updo and had my oversized glasses on instead of my contact lenses. Everyone thought they were chic and cute.
“River,” he pinched the bridge of his nose. “You are showing too much skin.” He growled when a guy whistled at me.
“Umm…hello!? You do know we live in Texas and it just so happens to be August, the hottest month of the year!? It’s an oven out here, Z.” I whispered-yelled ignoring the guy who was catcalling.
“Whatever, let's get some snacks and some food in your belly, babe.” He pulled me in front of him to lead the way. He was right close behind me. “Umm, possessive much,” I giggled, shaking my head knowing I liked it.
“Yes. Men are idiots, babe, and I can’t help it, especially when your best friend looks hot.” He winked. He told me once I looked like Elizabeth Lail’s twin but with light brown hair. She’s beautiful. Maybe I should dye my hair blonde. Suddenly, I remembered Dad’s comment earlier, making me doubt. Nah, he always says things like that.
I hit his chest and I winced when my hand hit his hard chest. Yup, he’s attractive and fit, yet couldn’t keep a girl for long. Anywho, I grabbed some trollies, Sour Patch Watermelon, DrPepper, and hot flaming Cheetos. I also grabbed a jalapeno cheese kolache and coffee.
“Hey, don’t forget your cheese dip,” Zach yelled out, making heads turn my way. I blushed.
He knew everything about me. Maybe I should marry him and just skip out on love and all that mushy stuff in between…Nah! It probably would get weird later on.
After using the loo and paying, we headed back to our vehicles. We pumped gas and I followed him the rest of the way. The entire time we were on the phone on our Bluetooth speaker just yapping and laughing along. I could never tire of talking to him and that was something I loved about us.
Zach and I will always be best friends until one of us takes our last breath.
“We’re pregnant!” I yelled out at our family and friends, and they all gaped.Before they reacted to the news, I shouted out, “Wait! Wait, that’s not all!” Alec chuckled. I glanced over to him and mouthed, ‘Ready?’He nodded. I pulled a onesie that said ‘Not One’ and then two seconds later, Alec pulled the next onesie saying ‘But Two’.Everyone roared. The house was filled with shock, cheering, and laughter. I loved their expressions but most importantly the way our parents cried.We had invited everyone to a get together at our home. We threatened every one of them to save the date and make an appearance, especially Jason and Samantha.Guess what though? Jason finally proposed. Sammy showed us her engagement ring and we all screamed. We were jumping with joy for them both. I hugged my buddy, almost bringing him to the ground.“J, I’m so happy you finally asked! I can’t wait!” I spoke through tears. I was truly happy for him because I was scared he would lose her. They’ve been together
Three years later.“What did you bring for lunch, bestie?” Zach said buoyantly.I rolled my eyes, “Stop eyeing my food, Z. I’m not giving you half of my lunch. You always do this to me, you eat yours and then steal from mine.” I said in an annoying tone.“Come on! Steal? Wrong choice of words don’t you think, Riv’s? Sharing is caring and what are best friends for…you know I love your food, babe.” He retorted, pouting and giving me puppy eyes.“Well, then it’s a good thing I brought you a separate container of spaghetti.” I grinned, wiggling my eyebrows.“You do love me!!! I knew it! Thank you, Rivs. You need to show D how to make your famous spaghetti. But say it without her knowing I asked you to. Baby girl gets butt hurt when she burns something or the food comes out bland. So you can imagine how she’ll get if she finds out I don’t like her spaghetti.” He frowned and blew out his cheeks.Delilah and Zach got engaged the year we graduated. They’re now living on the outskirts of Houst
I just want to thank you for your support.I loved writing this book. It breaks my heart to end this beautiful romance. I loved writing about Alec's and River's love. I hope you all enjoyed it too.It would mean so much if you would leave me a review and share my book with others.I am currently working on Alpha Ivan's sequel, Valentina - I Bow To No One.I don't like to work on multiple books at one time. It's better for me that way so that I won't get the characters mixed up. As soon as I have a good amount of chapters I will get with my editor and get it on the shelf.Also, please let me know what you thought about River. As an author, I would love the feedback especially on what I can work on. I have another book I would like to add on my page, but it would have to wait.That one will fall into the-- my bestfriends brother, catagory.I want to thank my love ones who have supported me on this journey. Like I said before, I never thought I would be writing books and it has beem amazi
RiverFive months later.I don’t know where to start. So much has happened since the day we returned to his home from Las Vegas.First, let me start by saying I’m a big sister y’all! My baby brother, Tristan, is finally here. He was born on March 7th and he’s my Dad’s twin with blue eyes and light brown hair. Baby boy is adorable! My friends, Alec’s parents, and some of Abby’s relatives and friends were there to welcome him to this world. It was the best day ever.Sorry, I got a little too excited. Back to when we returned to his home from Vegas.The time came to say goodbye and it was really sad. Even though we were going to see each other in a week or two, depending on how long the transfer process and packing took, it was still difficult for both of us.When he dropped me off at the airport, it was the longest agonizing moment of our lives. Yes, I'm being dramatic. We shared a lot of kisses, making sure not to do it in the public eye. Let’s just say…I’m glad they had family restroom
AlecMine. All mine. I would have her for the rest of my life until my last dying breath.My mouth went dry the moment I saw her in the sexy lingerie. Her tits out, the stockings on those sexy legs, the thong, the whole outfit had me rock hard. Then she began to dance and the song she chose almost had me combusting. Run her like a river?! Oh, I was going to do that and more. My hands weren’t holy though, I’ve made her sin and I have no regrets.She protested and threw a fit when I carried her to our room saying she wasn’t done. I ain’t gonna lie, when she ordered me to go in the room it was sexy as heck and I loved that side of her, but I’m dominant and the Alpha in me couldn’t control himself anymore.I could practically smell her arousal and saw how her p*ssy glistened when she waved it in my face. How can she expect the beast in me to sit there and watch her bounce and sway her delicious a*s on my shaft?I threw her on the bed, “Alec!” She giggled. I began to unbutton my shirt when
RiverWe made it to Palazzo Resort. The security there guided Alec and me to LAVO, an Italian restaurant and nightclub located inside. The moment we walked in, everyone was there waiting for us. Even some of Brice’s closest friends and Jaylen’s parents.Brice rented the entire restaurant slash club for us. It had a spacious dance floor and looked sleek and modern, with a mix of vintage and contemporary elements. I loved it!Xander was grinning at me the entire time and I just had to ask why.“Why are you smiling at me like that? Do you find me funny or something?” He cackled.“Nope, I just knew that Alec would finally get his girl in the end. All he needed to do was be patient. You were never Zach’s and I’m so glad that you discovered that yourself. By the way, sorry to hear about your accident.” I was in awe. My lips parted to his reply.“What nonsense are you telling my wife, Xander?” Alec said, hugging me from behind, and kissing my neck.“Nonsense? Quite the opposite, Alec. I’m onl
River“Okay, we’re all here! What’s going on, River? I mean don’t get us wrong, we are super happy that you got your man and y’all are together, but why did ya want all of us together here on iChat?” Erica questioned.I sent them a group message earlier to get on iChat. It was late, but this news couldn’t wait. I mean, I could have done a video chat, but I wanted a perfect view of their faces. Front row tickets of their genuine expressions when they heard the news of us getting married.Alec came up behind me, wrapped his arm around my neck, and kissed my cheek. “Hey guys, thanks for getting on here on short notice. I appreciate you guys making time for this sudden meeting. I’m sure y’all were busy but we have some news we want to share with you.”Zach cocked an eyebrow. Jaylen looked puzzled. Jason was waiting for us to speak. Erica and Delilah were both wearing a smile.“Okay, spill,” Erica said impatiently.I lifted my hand to the camera and showed them the ring. Everyone's jaw drop
RiverI can’t believe I’m here! The most magical place a girl could be at, a dream come true– Disneyland. I should add Disney World to my bucket list after this. Any girl who’s watched all the Disney princess movies should understand this feeling inside. Since I was a little girl, my all-time favorite movie was Ariel, but I also loved Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella.“Ouch!” I squealed. I pinched myself on the arm as I stood in front of Cinderella’s castle, earning me a puzzled look from Alec. He shook his head and I rolled my eyes, he wouldn’t understand. We came early in the morning to walk through at least two parks. I wore this cute dusty pink oversized jogger set. Alec kept trying to cover my stomach from guys who couldn’t keep their eyes off me. My cropped matching color hoodie was too short for his liking. I mean I don’t understand what the big deal was, I looked cute and it was perfect for the weather.I even wore my white Adidas with matching color stripes to my outfit. My h
AlecRiver and I spent the whole weekend together, sightseeing. I mostly wanted her to see the beach and take her to the Santa Monica pier. We also spent two nights alone in a hotel, indulging in our bodies and orgasms. It all felt like a dream, a dream I was scared to wake up from.The thought of her returning home was heavy on my heart. How would I survive the next few months without her? That was going to be hard.At night while she slept in my arms, I thought about the comment I made outside the restaurant at the guy snapping our picture. I told him she would be my wife and I meant that.Then it hit me! What if I make her my wife? What if before she leaves, we go to Las Vegas and get married? I mean we didn’t have to go far, a courthouse would do, but it would be perfect. There was no doubt in every inch of my body that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her.She was a done deal, the one who captured and owned my heart. I knew she felt the same way, so why wait? We are not
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