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text 2020-12-30 20:32

A Short Guide To Roof Inspections By Material Type

Table of ContentsHave Many Storms Have Passed Since Your Last Roof Inspection Buying A New Home? A Roof Inspection Will Save You Money Why Should You Get A Professional Roof Inspection?What Happens During A Commercial Roof Inspection?Roof Inspection Tips Why Get A Roof Inspection

If you're just asking for a portion of the overall expense, the seller might be more going to accept. For some added peace of mind, ask your seller to provide a roofing system warranty after the repairs are done. (However make certain it's from a trustworthy business with a long history.

These service warranties can be transferred to the brand-new owner (you). Then, if there are roof repair work down the roadway, you understand you're covered. Now that you understand what to do, take the first action and schedule a roofing system evaluation with an expert roofing business. Lyons Roof serves all of metro Phoenix and Tucson.

A roofing inspection is among those preventative maintenance tasks that's simple to overlook. Don't. Include a once-a-year reminder on your calendar to head out on a warm day and attend to any roofing system issues you discover. If you're squeamish about heights, do not stress. You can do a comprehensive evaluation from the ground using a pair of binoculars.

Why Regular Professional Roof Inspections Are Important

Imp Source: roof inspection Tucson - DC Roofing of Arizona

Nevertheless, there's no need to get up on your roofing system simply yet. The less you walk up there, the better for your roof-- and the more secure for you. Work your method around your house, noting any possible issues. Here's a roof assessment list: Cracked caulk or rust spots on flashing.

Commercial Roof Inspection Checklist: 10-point List

Missing out on or broken shingles. Split and used rubber boots around vent pipes. Missing out on or harmed chimney cap. (OK, that's technically not part of your roof, however considering that you're looking anyhow.) Masses of moss and lichen, which might indicate the roof is rotting below. Black algae discolorations are just cosmetic. Keep the vintage wallpaper, but upgrade that time- and money-draining retro thermostat to programmable.

Even if you think they have actually currently begun to freeze. Obvious indications you're flubbing property owner upkeep, like parking on lawn. Avoid regrets by understanding what questions to ask a REAL ESTATE AGENT or owner before you commit to a brand-new house. If you discover stacks of colored grit from asphalt roofing tiles in the gutters, that's a bad sign-- those sand-like granules cover the surface of roofing system shingles and shield them from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays.

A Home Inspector's Role Series – What Goes Into A Roof Inspection

Any loose, harmed, or missing shingles must be replaced immediately. Look for popped nails that need to be hammered back in place. If you're comfortable dealing with a roofing, then it's not too tough to replace shingles and caulk flashing yourself. Cost: $24 for a bundle of shingles, $6 for roof caulk.

In some cases it just doesn't work out. Here's how to bid farewell when you're unhappy. It's a complicated time, but lending institutions are putting solutions, like forbearance, in location to help homeowners. Resources to assist you browse the new realty normal. Metal and vinyl flashing around chimneys, skylights, and attic vents that has actually separated needs to be resealed with caulk.

Contact professional roofing business and seek at least 2 bids for repair work. You can utilize a handyman for small repairs and potentially shave expenses, but the person needs to be bonded, have proof of liability, and have workman's settlement insurance. Some expenses for common repairs consist of: A few broken or missing shingles: $100 to $150.

Common Roof Problems An Inspections Will Find

Replacing flashing or boots around chimneys, skylights, and vents: $300 to $500. Repairing flashing in valleys: $15 to $25 per running foot. Moss elimination begins in the fall. Apply a moss killer intended for roofs (granules for lawn-use consist of iron which will stain a roof). In the spring, use a broom to eliminate staying dead moss.

Cost: $20 for moss killer to treat 3,000 square feet of roof. Enable about three hours to sweep the roofing system, clear the seamless gutters, and apply the granules. A yearly roof checkup is fantastic, however issues can take place at any time. Early signs of problem consist of: Dark locations on ceilings. Peeling paint on the underside of roof overhangs.

Water discolorations on pipelines venting the hot water heater or heater. If you discover worrisome signs, especially if the roofing system is old or there's been a storm with heavy wind or hail, get a professional evaluation. Some roofing companies do this totally free; specialized roofing system inspectors, like those who work through the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association, charge about $175.

Roof Inspections: Asphalt Composition Shingles

The national mean cost for a new asphalt shingle roofing system is $7,500, according to the "Renovation Impact Report" from the National Association of REALTORS. You'll recover a healthy 109% of that financial investment if you should choose to sell your house, making a roofing replacement job the only project in the "Report" that pays back more than the preliminary financial investment.

How To Inspect Your Roof: What To Look For (And When To Call A Roofer) Should You Get A Roof Inspection Before Listing Your Home?

House owners surveyed for the "Renovation Impact Report" gave their new roof a Delight Rating of 9. 2 a score based on those who said they were delighted or satisfied with their renovation task, with 10 being the highest ranking and 1 the most affordable. Related: Is It Time to Change Your Roofing system? Or Will Fixes Do?.

The majority of individuals presume their roofing is well made, effectively installed, and can endure nature's wrath. In truth, roofs are quite susceptible. A roofing system that is flawed in any manner has the potential to put you and your liked ones in damage's way. Additionally, roofing system damage can lead to pricey repairs or perhaps a complete roofing replacement that annihilates your finances.

best roofers in Tucson - DC Roofing of Arizona id="content-section-5">Found The Perfect Home? Make Sure Your Home Inspector Checks The Roof

Using a roof professional for your roofing system's assessment enables you to avoid all sorts of pricey and time-consuming issues. A roofing professional with a strong credibility will reduce the chances of a stopping working roofing system destructive your house. He will identify issue areas before they spiral out of control and force egregiously pricey repairs or even a full roofing system replacement.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/R0zmPCwa4jI

Agreeing a real professional for the initial task will lessen the odds of yearly evaluations resulting in a bevy of problems. Additionally, legitimate roofing professionals offer the type of high-quality craftsmanship that results in a roofing system that stands the test of time, decreases hazards of damage to your home and ultimately conserves you a lot of cash throughout posterity.

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review 2020-03-09 06:01

Revival

Kitty's Book Spot!

April has loved Chris for years, and he really doesn't see her. When he comes into her place of work he has his own purpose. She just wishes that he could notice her as a woman and not a nurse.

Chris has wanted April for such a long time. He cannot forgive himself for those he has hurt by his past actions. Hard to move on, and hard to include someone in his misery. The yearning seem pointless.

This was such an amazing book! I loved the clear cut trope of protector and innocent. The story was laid out with a fast pace. I was particularly excited by the mention of some of my favorites from the Trident Security series. What a great idea this was. Having trouble putting the book down, I was moved by how determined the characters were. I give this a 5/5 Kitty's Paws UP!

***This ARC copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review only.

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text 2019-07-05 07:10

Release Tour - Accidentally In Love

Kitty's Book Spot!

RELEASE TOUR for Accidentally In Love by Katy Ames

Arya Winters’ dream job can make you blush, but her life isn’t nearly as exciting as being the voice of your favorite romance audiobooks. For Gavin McCord, it’s all about getting the job done as quick as possible, but suddenly he can’t stop fantasizing about a woman I’ll never meet. The eighth book in the addicting 425 Madison Avenue, is now live. Read Accidentally in Love by Katy Ames today!

Only on Amazon + Read for FREE on Kindle Unlimited

Add on Goodreads

About Accidentally in Love:

Arya

I know I can make you blush.

It’s a weird claim to fame, but a perk of my dream job: being the voice of your favorite romance audio books. Laughter, hijinks, adventure. Passion. Sweet heaven, the passion. It’s everything I could ever want. Except…

The problem with this fabulous life?

It’s all just fantasy.

Picking between Chinese and Thai delivery doesn’t count as adventure.

The bestie who always makes me laugh is thousands of miles away.

As for the hunky hero? It’s not like he’s just going to come crashing into my apartment.

Until the night a bearded stranger does exactly that…

Gavin

Do the job. Get the bad guy. Go home.

Most importantly, don’t get involved.

Those are the rules. The agency’s and mine. And they work. Even better, they give me the perfect excuse to keep my distance.

The perfect escape from getting burned again. Except…

Why can’t I stop watching her?

I shouldn’t care more about what she’s doing than my target.

I shouldn’t let her distract me from the job.

And I sure as hell shouldn’t fantasize about a woman I’ll never meet.

That is, until the night I surprise us both by kicking down her apartment door. Rules or no rules, it's true that...

After all, 425 Madison Avenue is the perfect place to fall in love.

*Each story is completely standalone.

Excerpt

“Number one rule of tailing someone: don’t breathe so loud they can hear you five flights away.”

“Hey!” I say, thwacking his chest. “Don’t be a jerk. Besides, I don’t think you’re in the position to give spy tips right now.”

One bold eyebrow lifts in question.

Pushing out of his grasp, I whip the hat off my head, breathing in relief as cool air hits my skull. “Isn’t the number one rule of spying not to pick up a tail in the first place?”

The first eyebrow drops, followed by the other. Green eyes turn sharp, primitive, before brightening. A roar of laughter erupts from his chest. We stand there for who knows how long, me huffing and puffing, and Gavin laughing like I’ve just delivered the funniest one-liner he’s ever heard. When he stops, his chest is heaving as hard as mine. One last chuckle escapes when he clocks my annoyed expression.

“Oh, come on. You should be proud. It’s been forever since I laughed that hard. That alone should make up for giving yourself away. Besides, it was a good effort. For a first timer.”

“Ugh,” is the only answer that seems fitting. “When did you realize I was there?”

“Hmm,” he says, stroking his beard, his lips still twisted in a smirk. “Down in the alley. When you scraped that thing against the wall.” He points at the metal tip on the large umbrella.

“You heard that?”

“Hmm,” he repeats, head bobbing. “That and a lot more.” Gavin sweeps his eyes down my body, lingering on my boots before pivoting and heading down the hall.

“Wait, what else?” Keeping up is impossible, what with my thigh muscles screaming and pain scorching my foot. He slows his pace without glancing back, his strides shortening until I catch up.

Another step and another wince, and Gavin mutters something under his breath before lifting me off my feet. My own smirk turns to a shriek when he throws me over his shoulder and swats my butt before continuing down the hall.

“That was completely unnecessary.” My complaint lacks edge, which I blame on the view of his very fine ass.

“Quite the opposite, Ms. Winters. Consider it punishment for ignoring my warnings about staying away.”

About Katy Ames:

Katy Ames has spent most of her life on the East Coast and hopes to spend more of it in the UK, primarily so she can indulge in her serious plaid obsession. There isn’t a teenage drama or a period British TV show she hasn’t binge-watched at least twice. And she can be persuaded to do almost anything with the promise of bourbon, chocolate, or a nap (not necessarily in that order).

Katy is mom to a small human who has an obscene amount of energy and a blissful ability to ignore swear words, and wife to a man whose reading habits are far too serious. Katy and her family reside in Washington, D.C., a city she where never intended to live and loves so much she’d be happy to talk about it for hours. Just ask.

Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon | Bookbub

About the 425 Madison Series:

Welcome to 425 Madison Ave the perfect place to fall in love. Nine delicious romances set in fast-paced & sexy NYC just waiting for you to read.

The series features stories from some of your favorite romance authors: Leigh Lennon, MK Moore, Allie York, Aubree Valentine, Kay Gordon, Lauren Helms, Sylvia Kane, Katy Ames, and C. Lesbirel.

Join these authors as they come together, each with a standalone romance for you to enjoy.

Featuring some of readers' favorite tropes: second-chance romance, best friends sibling romance to a good ol' enemies to lovers romance. We've got you covered with a sports romance, a fake relationship and even an ugly duckling or two. Don't forget a brother's best friend and falling for your soul mate. Maybe a little love triangle as well. Each tale offers you something new, something different. After all, 425 Madison Avenue is the perfect place to fall in love.

For more information, visit the series website ➝ www.425madisonseries.com

Follow the series on Facebook ➝ https://www.facebook.com/425MadisonSeries

Did you miss the first eight books in the series? You can read them here:

Book #1 - https://rebrand.ly/MLC_425Madison

Book #2 - https://rebrand.ly/LMLY_425Madison

Book #3 - https://rebrand.ly/JSR_425Madison

Book #4 - https://rebrand.ly/TFH_425Madison

Book #5 - https://rebrand.ly/BF_425Madison

Book #6 - https://rebrand.ly/LUC_425Madison

Book #7 - https://rebrand.ly/BFM_425Madison

The final book in the series is coming soon! Add it to your Goodreads shelf today!

Sightseeing in Manhattan by C. Lesbirel

A Soul MateRomance

Release: 7/18/19

Add on Goodreads

This release event is brought to you by Forever Write PR - Forever your source for all your writing needs. https://www.facebook.com/ForeverWritePR/

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text 2019-05-01 07:05

Cover Reveal - Final Three 425 Madison Avenue Books

Kitty's Book Spot!

Cover Reveal for the Final Three 425 Madison Avenue Books

Please join us in the final cover reveal for the 425 Madison Avenue series. We are excited to finally get to share the covers for BACK FOR MORE by Sylvia Kane, ACCIDENTALLY IN LOVE by Katy Ames and SIGHTSEEING IN MANHATTAN by C. Lesbirel.

About Back for More by Sylvia Kane

425 Madison Book #7

A Brother's Best Friend Romance

Release: 6/6/19

Summer in the city...

Kurt

She’s smart, hot, and funny. My dream girl.

There’s just one problem. She’s also my best bud’s little sister.

The sparks have always been there, but law school had to come first. Now, we’re all back in the city and the same sparks fly every time I run into her.

She needs a job and I need an assistant at the law firm. What could go wrong?

I don’t know if I can hide my feelings any longer.

I know I shouldn’t go there, but I can’t help it.

Corina

My brother's back in town, and I offer to share my awesome apartment. Imagine my surprise when his best friend Kurt walks in.

He’s still tall, dark, and handsome, and I can’t deny the pull.

Working together only complicates things. Long days and nights in the office can be dangerous.

When we’re not at the office, he’s always hanging around my apartment. To see my brother. Yeah, right.

All I know is, summer in the city is about to get a lot hotter.

After all, 425 Madison Avenue is the perfect place to fall in love.

*Each story is completely standalone.

Add to Goodreads ➝ bit.ly/425Mad7BFM

About Sylvia Kane

If you love naughty romances about irresistible men who love their women fiercely, you’ve come to the right place. Sylvia's books include a sprinkling of angst, introspective and lovable characters, and a healthy helping of steam. She lives in Toronto with her husband, their two young kids, and an adorable Maine Coon who follows them around like a guard dog when they go for walks!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSylviaKane

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Syl_Kane

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4691993.Sylvia_Kane

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sylvia-Kane/e/B071DGLJYX

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/sylvia-kane

About Accidentally in Love by Katy Ames

425 Madison Book #8

An Ugly Duckling Romance

Release: 6/27/19

Arya

I know I can make you blush.

The problem with this fabulous life?

It’s all just fantasy.

Picking between Chinese and Thai delivery doesn’t count as adventure.

The bestie who always makes me laugh is thousands of miles away.

As for the hunky hero? It’s not like he’s just going to come crashing into my apartment.

Until the night a bearded stranger does exactly that…

Gavin

Do the job. Get the bad guy. Go home.

Most importantly, don’t get involved.

Those are the rules. The agency’s and mine. And they work. Even better, they give me the perfect excuse to keep my distance.

The perfect escape from getting burned again. Except…

Why can’t I stop watching her?

I shouldn’t care more about what she’s doing than my target.

I shouldn’t let her distract me from the job.

And I sure as hell shouldn’t fantasize about a woman I’ll never meet.

That is, until the night I surprise us both by kicking down her apartment door. Rules or no rules, it's true that...

After all, 425 Madison Avenue is the perfect place to fall in love.

*Each story is completely standalone.

Add to Goodreads ➝ bit.ly/425Mad8AIL

About Katy Ames

Website: https://katyamesbooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katyamesbooks

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16974702.Katy_Ames

Amazon: amzn.to/KA_Amazon

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/katy-ames

About Sightseeing in Manhattan by C. Lesbirel

425 Madison Book #9

A Soul MateRomance

Release: 7/18/19

Hannah-Rae

On stage at a Magic Mike theme night with the music blaring and her hands trailing the oily, well-defined abs of another man is where Hannah-Rae realizes that maybe she isn’t as heartbroken about her cheating ex as she had first thought. She had known she needed to make some big decisions about life before flying out to NYC, she just hadn’t expected her heart would be calling all the shots.

Matt

He didn’t know why or how his passion for dance had come about. All he knew is that when he was on that stage throwing shapes down, he felt so alive in the moment that he almost forgot about the fact that his little sister was sick and there was absolutely nothing he could do about it. Almost.

When chance circumstances bring us together, will dancing bring us something more than either of us expected?

After all, 425 Madison Avenue is the perfect place to fall in love.

*Each story is completely standalone.

Add to Goodreads ➝ bit.ly/425Mad9SIM

About C. Lesbriel

Clare Lesbirel is a lover of all things pink and fluffy with a huge obsession for Happy Ever After's. This includes most romance novels, country songs and Hallmark Movies. She lives in England where she spends most of her time reading or dreaming up new love stories. She first published with her best friend under the pen name, Autumn Ruby in 2018 and won a handful of indie author awards. It is the love and support of the friends she has made along the way that has led her to follow her dreams of publishing sweet, sexy stories that celebrate the relationships of the perfectly imperfect.

Clare loves to befriend those who are equally as obsessed with hot alpha’s as she is, so be sure to catch up with her via her Facebook page or Instagram.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alphaswithheart

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18692758.C_Lesbirel

Amazon: amzn.to/CL_Amazon

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/c-lesbirel

About the 425 Madison Series

Welcome to 425 Madison Ave the perfect place to fall in love. Nine delicious romances set in fast-paced & sexy NYC just waiting for you to read.

The series features stories from some of your favorite romance authors: Leigh Lennon, MK Moore, Allie York, Aubree Valentine, Kay Gordon, Lauren Helms, Sylvia Kane, Katy Ames, and C. Lesbirel.

Join these authors as they come together, each with a standalone romance for you to enjoy.

For more information, visit the series website ➝ www.425madisonseries.com

Follow the series on Facebook ➝ https://www.facebook.com/425MadisonSeries

Did you miss the first five books? You can read them here for FREE with Kindle Unlimited ➝ https://rebrand.ly/425MadisonAmz

The next book in the series is coming soon! Add it to your Goodreads shelf today!

Love Under Construction by Aubree Valentine, Book #6

An Enemies to Lovers Romance

Release: 5/16/19

Goodreads ➝ https://rebrand.ly/LUC_425Madison

This release event is brought to you by Forever Write PR - Forever your source for all your writing needs. https://www.facebook.com/ForeverWritePR

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review 2019-02-10 09:02

Book Review for Safe Rider by Jessica Ames

Angels With Attitude Book Reviews

Safe Rider (A Lost Saxons Novel Book 2) Kindle Edition - Jessica Ames

Title: Safe Rider

Series: A Lost Saxons Novel #2

Author: Jessica Ames

Genre: Contemporary MC Romance

Release Date: November 9, 2018

Cover Design: Kellie Dennis at Book Cover by Design
Reviewed by Angels With Attitude Book Reviews
5 stars from us
Arc copy provided for honest review

Rule #1 of getting life back on track: don’t fall for a biker…

A new life; a new start—that was what Liv needed after escaping her violent marriage. Moving to Kingsley was a chance to rebuild what was broken and show the world she wasn’t defeated by her past. No part of that plan involved falling in love with a biker.

Dean never expected to want the sweet woman living across the street. She’s not his type, yet he can’t stay away from her. When trouble follows Liv, he’s one step behind, ready to defend her because his time in the Lost Saxons Motorcycle Club has taught him two things: how to ride and how to protect what is his. And Liv is his—even if she doesn’t know it yet.

Let's start off by saying that this is a new author for us and we throughly enjoyed our first read by them and we really loved the book cover as it was just beautiful.

The story was engaging enough an had a serious story line that kept your interest as the story flowed we liked getting to know the characters and I have to say that we found them like-able,engaging and funny.

I loved Olivia/Liv and how she had the courage to change her life.We found her to have courage, be loving,giving,ski-dish,independent ,loved how she showed us that she had a backbone and that she was strong and beautiful inside and out.I loved no matter how many reservations she had when it came to Dean and his club she seemed to always draw her own conclusions from the deeds he did and the person he was when he was around her and with her.

I loved Dean from the onset of the story as he was just so love-able,patient, kind,giving,protective,possessive in a positive way in which he made Liv feel safe and was sexy as sin.

I loved the chemistry this couple had and how their relationship developed slowly and sweetly and how Dean was patient and understanding with her and the struggles Liv had with trust issues.All these things made Dean more endearing to us and more love-able.

The story had just enough drama and a sweet love story and character engagement to the keep the story interesting.I normally like a story with a bit more heat and I wish their was a little bit more of the club drama thrown in the mix but, considering the seriousness of the content of the story it was going to take time for Dean to make Liv his I think we new that the story would concentrate more or the romance aspect then club drama so we weren't that disappointed.

I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that the characters were total opposites yet fit perfectly with one another and I believe Dean being a bit edgy and had a bit mystery to him was just the thing to bring her back into the living again.Dean was someone she trusted and felt safe with and someone totally opposite of the men she had been previously attracted to.

The story was emotional and engaged your emotions and we love stories just like that.

Our favorite quote from the story

"No, I know I offended him. I don’t want to end up on some kind of ‘whack’ list, Hol.”

lol

I would definitely read more in this continuing series.

Chapter Two

Present day…

I'm unloading groceries from my car when I first see him. It's the roar of the engine that draws my attention. It's so obnoxiously loud in the quiet cul-de-sac that I can't stop my eyes from gravitating towards the sound. As I do, the mid-afternoon sunlight catches the chrome pipes, momentarily blinding me before the bike moves into the shadows of the trees lining the road.

I don't know a thing about motorcycles, but I can appreciate the beauty of it. It's a beast of a machine, with an emerald green fuel tank and pearl accents. It's a bike designed to catch attention, and it does. Even if it didn't, the man riding it would. To say he's imposing is an understatement.

With fascination—and a healthy dose of trepidation—I watch as he stops the bike in the driveway opposite my house and pulls off his helmet.

His head is covered in a thin layer of dark fuzz, which is at odds with the amount of hair covering his jaw, and every inch of skin not covered by clothes is inked. I'm more than certain his body is covered in even more artwork than I can see.

He isn’t classically handsome, nor is he the type I would usually find attractive, but there is something about him. Maybe it’s the bad boy vibe, or the confidence of his movements—I'm not sure. He's only wearing plain, boring, black jeans—nothing special—but they do fit him perfectly. The dark denim hangs in a way that accentuates his narrow hips and his tight bum. Beneath his leather vest he has on a loose, dark sweatshirt, the sleeves pushed up to his elbows. Looking at him, it’s like he rolled up out of hell to cause mayhem. Simon could never pull off that look, not in a million years. He is a trousers and button-up shirt kind of guy.

He's also a huge bastard—one that should not be entering my head at all.

My breath catches and all thoughts of Simon vanish as the biker turns and I get a full view of the back of his vest. There are two crossed swords dripping blood onto a skull wearing a helmet. This is macabre enough, but it's finished off with a T-cross piece over the skeletal nose and red, burning coals for eyes. The words 'Lost Saxons' are arced across the top of the garment, 'Kingsley' across the bottom.

He's not just a biker, he’s a biker.

I'm not a native to Kingsley, but I also don’t live under a rock; I know what the Lost Saxons Motorcycle Club is. They're well-known, even outside the former colliery town. If the newspapers are to be believed, they deal in drugs, weapons—anything that will give them a quick payout. They're criminals, a gang of men dedicated to living outside the confines of the law, and from the looks of it, I have one of their members living across the road from me.

And he definitely lives there because he's moving up the path towards the front door with a comfortable ease that only comes from being in your own space.

The bands around my chest loosen a little as he steps inside the house, the front door banging closed behind him, and once again peace and tranquility return.

I’ve been in Kingsley for more than a year, but I’ve only been renting this property for the past three months. It’s the first time I’ve felt truly happy since I left Simon; the therapy, the breathing techniques, the finding something good in each part of the day is working and I finally feel as if I’m moving forward.

But now I have a biker living on my road.

Maybe I can move somewhere else…

Except, I signed a twelve-month tenancy agreement. Why? Because this house has a good square footage, is in a quiet part of Kingsley and was a bargain.

Now, I’m wondering if Mr Biker is the reason why the rent is so cheap.

I shake myself.

Firstly, for being so judgmental; I’m not usually. This is because so many people have judged me over the years and usually they come to the wrong conclusion. Secondly, because in the months I’ve lived here, this is the first time I’ve seen him. Clearly, he’s not a frequent visitor to the house.

I stare at the now-closed door and sigh. Maybe I should worry about my own problems and not who is living across the street from me. But I can’t help but feel concerned. I left my old life behind, reclaiming what was left of the woman I was before I met Simon. Even after all this time, I’m still trying to work out who this version of me is, but I figure she’s the kind of woman who would not care about the biker living across the street. I also figure she is the kind of woman who doesn’t get involved in other people’s business unless it becomes her business.

But he is a problem and he most definitely is my business, because he lives spitting distance from my front door. I don’t need the kind of trouble this man and his Club will bring. I need quiet, and I need safety. I don’t need the police camped on the front lawn.

Feeling irritated—and a little anxious—I reach into the boot of my car, gather up my shopping bags and heave them out with a grunt. Juggling my load, I fumble for the lid of the boot and manage to get it closed without dropping anything. This is a feat in itself, given how heavy these bags are. How much did I buy?

This is something I have struggled to get used to since I set out on my own: shopping for myself. I was so used to getting whatever Simon wanted, not what I wanted or needed that I now have a tendency to overindulge when I’m in the supermarket. I have to remember I’m on a budget and that I can’t afford a hundred pounds a week food bill. But the freedom to do as I please goes to my head more often than I would care to admit—even after all this time.

I barely take two steps before I feel something shift. Then, the weight of the bags changes as the plastic splits from handle to seam. Laden down as I am, I can do nothing but watch in seemingly slow motion as my milk carton hits the concrete at force, spraying white into the air like a geyser while the rest of the contents spill out onto the pavement, my apples rolling to settle in the gutter.

Well, shit.

I move to my car and carefully place the other bags in the boot before turning back to the carnage I have wrought. A white river of milk is free-flowing across the paving slabs and staining the grassy verge.

Shit, shit, shit.

I move to pick up the first fallen item—a ruffled looking lettuce—when a deep, gravelly voice says, "Do you need a hand?"

I jump practically out of my skin; I can't help it. It’s not a normal response and I know this, but I can't stop it. My flight response battles with my fight for dominance as I spin around. And my body, which has been conditioned to react over the years, tries to recoil. It takes everything I have to stand still as I let out a garbled yelp.

"Jesus!" I gasp out as I realize the voice belongs to my neighbor from across the street: the biker.

For a moment a tendril of fear works through me, but it winds back a notch when he doesn’t make any sudden movements. I put a hand to my sternum, trying to control my thrumming heartbeat, then drag in a shuddering breath as my counselors voice sounds in the back of my mind: I am in control; I can keep myself safe.

And I can. I have been doing it for months now quite successfully.

For his part, Mr Biker looks contrite and slightly concerned, as if worried I may keel over. It is a possibility, given how much of a workout my respiratory system is getting, courtesy of him.

"You nearly gave me a coronary,” I snap, which is probably not the best idea, given the present company, but shock makes my mouth engage before my brain.

"Fuck," he mutters, as a tattooed hand runs over his buzzed head. My eyes of their own volition follow the movement and I have to drag my gaze back to his face. "I didn't mean to scare you."

“It’s okay,” I mutter.

This close up, I can see his eyes are pale, a blue so light it looks gray. He’s also wearing a ring through his left nostril that I shouldn’t like, but find I do. I don’t usually like piercings, nor do I like tattoos, but he pulls both off perfectly. Too perfectly, really. He’s nothing like Simon who was more at home in a suit rather than jeans and never left the house without ensuring his hair was perfectly styled. I doubt this man cares about that kind of thing; he’s dressed for comfort. He’s rough, hard, but there is something about him that I like—and I don’t even want to dissect that.

Boy, do I have bad taste in men? First Simon, now I’m lusting over a criminal. I should become celibate and join a nunnery.

But he is good looking, even under the bad boy appearance.

“Do you have another bag?”

“What?” I pull my attention from scanning the thick scruff of beard covering his jaw. It’s verging on wild and this close to me, I can see it has copper-flecks among the brown.

“A bag: do you have another? To put the food in,” he clarifies, speaking slowly, as if I’m not with it—which I’m not. I’m rattled having him in my space, and not just because my hormones are standing to attention. The man belongs to one of the most notorious biker gangs in the country, and he’s also at least five inches taller than I am. He’s bulky, in an athletic way, rather than a steroid way, but that means nothing; Simon wasn’t built but he could still overpower me. That in itself is enough to make me wary, although I do everything not to show it.

He’s not going to hurt you.

Breathe it out, Olivia.

“Oh. Yeah.” I move back to the car and find a spare shopping tote tucked away. When I turn back to the biker and hand him the bag I do it with a lot more confidence than I feel.

He takes it without a word, opening it up and gestures for me to hold it for him. I do so without question. Why? I don't know. I should run into my house and hide because this man is dangerous. His leather vest with the skull on the back, the tattoos, the swagger: everything about him exudes just how dangerous he is. Except, he's standing on my driveway, helping me to collect the remains of my scattered shopping.

Are bikers supposed to be helpful?

I stand silently as he puts each item into the open tote bag, unsure what to say.

“Your milk is fucked,” he tells me unnecessarily because I can see that, “but the rest should be salvageable.”

I stare at the river of white wending over the concrete. This means another trip to the supermarket, unless I can survive with black coffee for tonight.

“Crap,” I whisper.

He runs a hand over his beard, and I notice his tattoos span down his arms to the backs of his hands as well. His skin is covered with so many different designs that it’s difficult to take it all in, but I see he has the same insignia on the back of his leather vest tattooed on his left forearm. On his right wrist, just above the palm, the word ‘Karma’ is stamped. I don’t even want to think why he has that tattoo. What karma is he dealing out?

Realizing I’m staring—again—I pull my gaze back to his face, but he doesn’t notice my gawking because he’s focused on the milk spillage.

“It’s only milk,” I say. “No use crying over it, right?”

Then his lips quirk and I forget he’s a dangerous criminal because my mouth is suddenly dry. It softens his entire demeanor and I suddenly want to see him smile every day.

“I guess not. I have some in the house, if you need it.”

I wonder when he was here to bring milk; this is definitely the first time I’ve seen signs of life at the house across the street.

“Do you want me to grab you some?” he continues.

As tempting as that is, I shake my head. “I think I’ll survive one evening without milk, but thank you.”

This is debatable but I’m not keen on being indebted to this man—even if it is only milk. It’s a ridiculous thought but my brain is completely frazzled right now. At least this is the excuse I’m giving myself.

He hands me the newly filled bag and I take it with murmured thanks, trying not to react as his fingers brush over the back of my hand. I can’t deny the way that feels. There is electricity between us—at least on my part, although I swear I see a slight widening of his eyes at our touch. Perhaps I imagined it because it’s gone so fast I can’t be sure it was there in the first place.

He sniffs then clears his throat and my cardiac muscle gets another workout as it beats faster.

“You just moved in?”

“Oh, yeah. Well, about three months ago.”

He blinks and then his brow pulls together. “Shit, really? Three months?”

I nod.

“I need to start coming to the house more.” He jerks a thumb in the direction of the property he disappeared into before. “I own number fifteen, but I spend most of my time at the clubhouse.”

The clubhouse. With the dangerous bikers where he is a member. This sobers me completely and brings me out of my fantasy. It doesn’t matter how nice he’s being, how polite, I need to bring this to an end. I do not need his kind of drama in my already drama-filled life.

“Thank you for your help, but I should get the food inside before it spoils.”

He studies me. Intently. I try not to squirm under that look. “I’ll help.”

“Oh, there’s no need.”

“I’ll help,” he repeats, as if I didn’t protest.

This annoys me, but I don’t have the chance to voice this because without invitation, he plucks the tote from my hands and reaches into the boot. He wraps a fist around the whole lot and pulls it out as if it weighs nothing, and without a word starts up the path to the front door.

My front door.

Crap!

I quickly reach for the boot, pulling the lid down and tug my handbag up my shoulder as I jog after him. His legs are longer than mine though and he eats up the space in a few steps. This means he’s waiting for me outside the porch when I reach him.

He lifts the bags slightly. “These are heavy, darlin’; do you want to open the door, so I can put them inside?”

I really don’t. It’s one thing him carrying my bags from the car to my front door, but him being inside my house... I’m not sure I’m comfortable with that at all. But I don’t want to be rude and I don’t want to upset the potentially dangerous biker with the cute face and overinflated sense of chivalry either.

I hesitate too long because his smile fades and his jaw tightens. I see the anger flash in his eyes as he realises why I’m hesitating. Muscle memory is a powerful thing because my brain doesn’t register it’s not Simon; all it registers is the perceived danger. To my mortification, I recoil back as if he struck me. My life with Simon may feel like a decade ago, but that primal instinct to protect myself is still the first thing to switch on when I meet someone new—someone I don’t yet know is safe.

His eyes narrow further. It’s like watching a train wreck in slow motion, and I can do nothing to stop the destruction.

There is a moment of silence that seems to span an era. It’s so quiet all I can hear is my own ragged breathing and his huffing.

Finally, he speaks.

“Christ, you try to fucking help someone and this is how they thank you?” He grinds the words between clenched teeth. Then he snorts and shakes his head. Not too gently, he dumps the bags on the ground and leans into me. I pull away from him, my back hitting the side of the storm porch as he gets into my space, all six-foot-plus of him. I have to raise my chin to meet his gaze, and I wish I didn’t because he looks hurt beneath the anger and for some reason that doesn’t sit right with me.

“For the record, I was just going to take your bags inside for you. I usually leave the raping and murdering for the weekend.”

He gives me the dirtiest look I’ve ever seen, turns on a booted heel and starts back up the path. I let my lungs finally reboot and draw in air when he reaches the end of the drive, and I’m filled with a new emotion. This one is abject embarrassment. He didn’t do anything wrong. All he did was try to be nice and I treated him like crap. Did I really think he was going to come into my house and hurt me?

I don’t know.

Old habits die hard.

Shit.

Jessica Ames was raised in a small market town in the Midlands, England. She lives with her crazy mongrel terrier and when she’s not writing she’s playing with crochet hooks. From the moment she was old enough to hold a pen she created fantastical stories and by the age of 17 had written her first full-length novel: a fantasy story about an exiled boy king. It was a clinched mess, but she realized she could, in fact, write and finish a book!

Knowing she needed to make money, she found work in the publishing world. Over the next decade, she honed her skills and worked hard to learn everything she could about writing. In January 2018, in a moment of insanity, she quit her job in magazine publishing to write books full time.

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