Okay, here's a small teaser from Chapter 2 of my new book.

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Cecelia giggled. Vincent climbed the tree with monkey-like agility. His white sleeves were rolled up so they wouldn't get caught. He took off his black leather dress shoes so they wouldn't scuff. Halfway up the tree, Vincent hunted for apples. It was a picnic after all, and they lacked an essential piece: fruit. Cecelia sat below on the blanket, a simple dark-green sundress, hands planted behind her as she watched Vincent scour the apple tree.

"Aww man! The pickers got most of 'em." He said as he continued his search, Cecelia watching patiently from down below. He stole a quick glance down at her. The golden sun shone across her slender yet sturdy shape, the sunlight setting her eyes fiery green. Vincent lost his concentration, as well as his grip on the tree and fell.

After an ugly fall, he landed on his back with a thud. Cecelia was by his side in an instant, looking him over as he began to giggle. She noticed he was covered with mushed apples. He was fine, but clutching his stomach.

Cecelia arched an eyebrow in question to his giggling. Vincent pulled a twig out of his ponytail. He caught her eyes and arched an eyebrow of his own as he took his arm away from his stomach, and he held one single apple in his hand, undamaged.

"Sorry sweetheart, I could only save one." He said with that playful wink he knew she loved. She leaned in close and locked fingers with him, delivering a soft kiss. He returned it in earnest, and whispered,

"I love you Cecelia..."

- - - -

The words echoed in his mind, the warmth left his body, her scent left his nose. All he felt was the leather of his couch, smelt the pine air. Wiping the tears from his cheeks, he sat up and looked at the clock. 7:42. 'Today is a new day...' he thought to himself.