Free Liz's Luck [Appledale 2] (Siren Publishing Classic) by Lee Rose

were just common people if she was. Even his own aunt shopped at Liz’s store and told him that Liz had a heart of gold. Everyone knew that Mrs. Johnson had financial difficulties with Mr. Johnson’s passing away, and whenever the elderly lady came in to Liz’s store to shop, suddenly there was a sale going on. That showed him she had compassion. He needed to get rid of all his previous misconceptions and get to know the real Elizabeth Daniels. “We could never be enemies, angel.” He kissed her forehead softly, inhaling her sweet scent. “Are you really okay? And be honest with me so I won’t worry all night.”
    He felt her head nodding, but she didn’t move out of his arms. He was content to stay there and hold her all night. He felt happy that she was giving him a second chance. “I’m just tired and a little sore but I’ll get over it.”
    “I’ll leave so you can rest. Are you sure you are okay with being alone?” Ethan asked standing up with her and hugging her tightly, not wanting to leave.
    Liz was tempted to say no so he would stay the night but she didn’t want to play games. “I’m fine. I just need a good night’s sleep. Logan and Gabe have been driving by so I’m not worried about anything happening. Plus, my dad helped me get a good alarm system and cameras for the building.”
    “That’s a relief. No more heroics, young lady. Gabe is looking into some leads but you have to be on the alert,” he said firmly, releasing her reluctantly. His body was reacting to the way her body pressed against him and he didn’t want her to feel his arousal. He’d love to spend the night with Liz but it was too soon. He had a lot of ground to make up with her. “Promise me you will call me if you’re scared or if anything happens.”
    “I promise,” Liz said, crossing her heart with her fingers, and smiled at him, feeling relieved she had the chance to get to know him. “Thanks for coming by, Ethan.”
    Ethan didn’t want to leave without one kiss, so he grabbed Liz’s arms and pulled her into his body and kissed her tenderly. It wasn’t like the last feverish kiss they had shared. Ethan’s kiss was gentle and sweet and said, “I’m sorry.”
    Liz was shocked for a moment. She hadn’t expected the kiss. Ethan explored her mouth slowly. His kiss teased and provoked her into passion. She groaned and leaned into him and put her hands around his waist, feeling the hard muscles beneath her fingers. She intertwined her tongue with his and moaned into his mouth. After a few minutes he released her suddenly and he had a big, cocky grin on his face. She was trembling in his arms.
Liz’s kisses packed a punch. Ethan knew he was headed home for a cold shower. It was worth it to have a small taste of Liz “See you soon.” He leaned his forehead on hers and smiled tenderly. “Good night, Liz. I’m a Snoopy fan myself, by the way.”
    Liz looked down and realized she was still in her raggedy Snoopy T-shirt and giggled. “I guess my glamour-girl image is ruined?”
    Ethan smiled, nodded, and kissed her forehead and said good-bye. Liz closed the door with a sappy smile on her face. Maybe, just maybe, luck was finally on her side.

Chapter 8
     
    Liz was so busy over the next few days that she called Amy to come in and help her at the store. Amy was on Christmas break from school and was able to work extra hours. Stella came in for the final fitting for her bridesmaid dress.
    “You look good, Liz,” Stella observed as she hung the dress back up on the hanger. The wedding was ten days away. Liz’s and Lacy’s dresses were ready, but due to Stella’s pregnancy they needed to make sure hers still fit.
    “I am doing so much better. I have something to tell you, Stella.” Liz smiled happily. “Ethan White asked me out on a date and I said yes.”
    Stella smiled at her. “You really like him, don’t you?”
    Liz nodded yes. “We’ve both been so busy these last few days so I don’t know when we’re