Novels by Tory June

"I now pronounce you husband and wife."The words reverberated through the air as Samantha felt Tyler's warm hands cup her face. His blue eyes were so intense that her breath caught, and before she could blink, his lips were on hers. The kiss was slow and deep, sending goosebumps down her spine, and it sealed a commitment far bigger than any previous pledge. As guests stood clapping and whistling, cheers broke up all around them. White rose petals flew across the air, captured by the gentle evening breeze. Samantha let out a frantic giggle against Tyler's lips as he pulled her in closer. "We did it," she muttered. "We did," he said softly, leaning his forehead against hers. "And I'm never letting go." Samantha's heart felt fuller than ever as they went down the aisle together. Caleb was gone, the past was behind them, and a bright future awaited them. *** Six months later. Samantha sat in bed, fatigued but happy, her fingers tracing the newborn's small features cuddled again

Four days later. Samantha stood in front of the mirror, her heart racing against her ribs. The smooth ivory fabric of her bridal gown clung to her body like a second skin, with beautiful lace accents cascading down her arms. It should have been the best day of her life. But something seemed odd. She inhaled softly, attempting to push the anxiety away. Perhaps it was simply nerves. After everything they'd been through... Tyler's health issues, her father's death, the inheritance drama, Caleb's reappearance... it was understandable to be on edge. A gentle knock on the door made her jump. Bella looked inside, her eyes lit up. "Sam, you look…" She placed a hand on her chest. "Breathtaking." Samantha smiled, but Bella's countenance immediately changed, indicating that something was awry. "You okay?" Bella inquired, coming closer. Samantha hesitated before shaking her head. "I do not know. "I just have this feeling." Bella frowned. "The bad kind?" Samantha nodded. Befo

Samantha sat on the examination table and gripped the edge as the small, clean exam room was filled with the continuous beep of a monitor. With his leg hopping restlessly and his gaze darting between her and the closed door, Tyler sat next to her. "Blake, Samantha?" The physician came in, leafing through the file. She smiled politely and professionally and took the stool across from them. Samantha took a deep breath. "I am that." After looking over the chart, the doctor looked directly at Samantha. "Your bloodwork results have been returned." She hesitated. "You are expecting a child." There was a slight tilt to the room. Samantha blinked. "What?" The physician's grin grew softer. "You are roughly six weeks pregnant." From next to her came a sudden intake of breath. When Samantha looked back, she saw Tyler transfixed, his eyes wide, his lips slightly apart. He remained silent for a minute. Then his face changed, as though the realization had to come gradually. "You're..." He g

Despite the frantic energy pulsing through him, Tyler's hands remained calm as he adjusted the final candle on the table, filling the air with the aroma of fresh roses. As he had intended, the restaurant was deserted; he had rented out the whole place for the evening. The tastefully arranged table was bathed in a golden glow while soft instrumental music played in the background. He rolled his shoulders back and let out a breath. It has to be flawless tonight. He turned when he heard a familiar voice at the door. "Tyler?" Samantha stood in the doorway, looking both surprised and intrigued. With her hair falling over her shoulders, she looked stunning in a form-fitting emerald dress. Tyler took a deep breath. God, she's stunning. She glanced at the intimate scene and then back at him. "What's all this?" He moved forward and extended his hand. "Supper. Only us. After a moment of hesitation, she inserted her fingers inside his. Her tender touch stabilized and anchored hi

Tyler exhaled sharply as he pushed himself up from the therapy bench, sweat dampening his shirt. His muscles trembled from exertion, but he gritted his teeth and steadied himself. Samantha stood nearby, watching him with careful eyes, ready to step in if he faltered. “Easy,” she murmured. He shot her a look. “I’m fine.” She crossed her arms, one brow lifting. “You nearly collapsed last week. Forgive me if I don’t take your word for it.” Tyler sighed but didn’t argue. Truth be told, he still felt the weakness lingering in his limbs, the occasional dizziness that reminded him he wasn’t at full strength yet. But he was improving. And that mattered. The physical therapist, a middle-aged man named Greg, clapped him on the shoulder. “That’s enough for today. You don’t want to push too hard.” Tyler wiped a hand over his face and nodded. “Got it.” Samantha handed him a water bottle, and as he took a sip, her fingers brushed against his. It was a small, fleeting touch, but it g

Samantha paced the clean hallway, the only sound in the otherwise quiet room being the steady tapping of her heels on the shiny hospital floor. She detested medical facilities. I detested having to wait. She glanced at the clock, her arms folded tightly across her chest. Four hours. Tyler had spent four long, excruciating hours in surgery. She turned as she felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Owen standing next to her, holding a coffee cup in one hand and wearing a worried expression. He offered her the cup and added softly, "You must sit." Samantha gave a headshake. "I am unable to. Not until I'm certain he's alright. Owen leaned against the wall and moaned. "You have stood here the whole time. You're going to lose your mind. The lump in her throat was swallowed. "What happens if something goes right?" Her voice broke. "What if..." "Cease." Owen spoke in a friendly but stern tone. "Tyler is powerful. Additionally, he is being treated by one of the nation's top surgeons

EPILOGUE: The air in the Malvis estate was filled with the soft hum of life.. the distant chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze.Avalynn stood on the terrace, her eyes drifting over the landscape as the day slowly gave way to night. The previous few months had been a blur as she adjusted to her new position in the family business, planned the wedding, and experienced the pleasures of married life. She had, however, had a profound sense of joy and happiness throughout it all that she had never experienced before. With a little smile on her lips, she carelessly stroked her expanding tummy. Even though everything had changed so rapidly, life yet seemed quite right. The days had been full with love, laughter, and a wonderful sense of what was ahead.Silently, Jace walked into the room behind her, his light hardwood floorsteps. With his chin resting on her shoulder, he encircled her with his arms from behind and followed her look out the window. With a low g

Avalynn stood in front of the mirror, staring at her reflection with breathless eyes. Her body fit the ivory gown, which seemed a second skin with brilliant veil cascading down her back and delicate lace flowing down her arms. Grateful for the pearls' coolness, she ran her fingers over the beaded bodice.Lisa was behind her, adjusting the finishing touches, tucking the dress's train and setting the veil.With a note of wonder in her voice, she said, "Ava, you look amazing."Avalynn shifted slightly and looked into Lisa's mirror. With tears still welling up in her eyes, she said, "I can't believe this is happening. I never thought this would happen."With a kind grin, Lisa squeezed Avalynn's shoulders. "You are deserving of everything." You will make the most stunning bride when you tie the knot with the love of your life."Avalynn inhaled deeply and then looked at her mirror again.The girl who was gazing back at her appeared to be a dream - graceful, dazzling, and brimming with joy

With the sun rays coming in through the transparent curtains and lightning the room in a warm, golden glow, Avalynn stirred in her deep sleep.The blankets hugged her body tightly, leaving the remains of last night's excitement still visible on her skin.Jace stirred at her touch, his eyes slowly opening. When he saw her, a slow, lazy smile spread across his face, and he tightened his hold on her, pulling her closer. “Morning, beautiful,” he whispered, his voice husky with sleep.His features, softened by the dawn light, were relaxed in sleep, a far cry from his usually controlled and powerful look.Her heart became big with love and happiness as she reached out and gently brushed a lock of hair off his face. Peace, love, and the man who had become her whole world were all she had ever wanted.At her touch, Jace moved and slowly opened his eyes. A slow, lazy smile crossed his lips as he spotted her, and he tightened his grip, drawing her in. He whispered, "Morning, beautiful," his vo

The dim light of the bedside lamp cast a soft glow over the room, creating a cozy atmosphere that enveloped Jace and Avalynn as they lay side by side on the large bed. The events of the past weeks had been intense, but now, everything seemed to have settled into place. The room, decorated in muted tones of gray and blue, felt like a sanctuary from the outside world.. a place where they could finally breathe and enjoy the calm after the storm.Avalynn laid her head on Jace's chest and made gentle circles over his skin while she listened to his heartbeat.They had a comfortable stillness that was laced with the warmth of unsaid understanding and shared experiences. Thinking about how far they'd come and how a one-night encounter had brought them to this point, she grinned to herself."Remember the night we first met?" Avalynn has a hushed, almost dreamy voice.With a chuckle, Jace ran a hand through her hair. "How could I overlook that? You were the most stunning woman in the club, an

Two weeks had passed since the whirlwind of revelations that had shaken the foundation of Avalynn’s world. But now, the dust had settled, and with it, a newfound clarity and peace had emerged. Avalynn had come to terms with her heritage, her place in the Malvis family, and most importantly, with Jace. The man she loved, who had been her anchor in the storm, was no longer just the man she thought she knew; he was so much more.The Malvis house was a hive of joy tonight. The huge hall gleamed with wealth and grace, decorated with crystal chandeliers and high ceilings. The walls, which were covered with pictures of the Malvis ancestors, appeared to witness to the importance of the evening.. the official recognition of Avalynn as a real Malvis and the celebration of the family's victory over the Rinders, longtime enemies.Guests started to pour into the hall as the evening sun started to set, soaking the estate in a warm, golden glow. With the quiet hum of string instruments playing

With a deep breath, Jace's grandfather looked at him and Avalynn who were seated across from him. There was a tight, stifling silence as the weight of the information he was about to impart seemed to drain the room's very oxygen. As Jace's jaw tightened and his eyes locked on the elderly guy, Avalynn shifted in her seat, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest.The grandfather said, "Jace, Avalynn," in a tone that was serene but full of a gravity that made Avalynn's skin crawl. "The results of the DNA test are in."The words, thick with anticipation and terror, hung in the air like a fog. Avalynn braced herself for what was about to happen, her fists clenched in her lap and her claws digging into her hands. Jace leaned forward a little, his eyebrows furrowing in a startled yet nervous way.The grandfather stated, "The test proves that Avalynn is in fact my late son's biological daughter."A painful gasp from Avalynn's lips as her breath caught in her throat. The words echoed in her

Amy gazed at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. Her thoughts were as fast-paced as her pulse, which thundered in her ears. Bruce's words from a few moments before, "We need to leave now," kept repeating in her mind despite her best efforts to stay calm. A new date has been set for the board meeting.Grasping the sides of the sink for balance, she sprayed her face with cold water. She felt the weight of the future pressing down on her like a great load.It was more than just a meeting. It was her final chance to protect her future, her father's heritage, and what little respect she still had. Liam. She felt a combination of grief and rage at the mere mention of his name. What was his end game? To ruin her completely? To hurt her, to hold on to something he didn't even need?She was shocked by a knock on the door and heard Bruce's voice, as calm and comforting as ever. "Are you ready, Amy? Come on, let's run."She called back, her voice more calm than she felt, "Okay, coming."

Two days had gone by since Amy awoke in Bruce’s apartment, and during that time, she had wept until her eyes felt sore, yelled until her throat hurt, and attempted to understand a reality that had flipped completely upside down. Yet, amidst everything, there was Bruce.. dependable, serene, and present for her in ways she never realized she required, but now couldn’t envision life without. She was assigned a guest room, nestled in the corner of Bruce’s minimalist apartment.. a tranquil area that resembled the stillness before the chaos. She had always been aware that Bruce would support her, but she didn’t foresee the extent to which he would rise to the occasion when her life was in chaos. Her phone vibrated on the nightstand, showing an incoming call from Liam. This time, she didn’t trouble herself to glance at the screen, her finger brushing it aside without a second thought. She wasn't interested in hearing his voice. Bruce’s presence enabled her to build barriers, regain so

"You're finally awake."The voice was deep, steady, and definitely familiar. But it took Amy a moment to fully regain her senses, her mind clouded with the parts left over of the world she had just left behind.The pain was still there, sharp and constant, but dulled somehow by the warmth surrounding her.She blinked quickly, her eyes changing to make better to the soft light in the room, and then the words finally pierced through.Bruce. It was Bruce's voice.Amy tried to sit up, but her body refused to cooperate. She felt weak, her muscles sore, the after effects of the sudden accident still staying around like a dull pain beneath her skin.She placed a hand to her forehead, trying to shake off the fog that still gripped her.Where was she?Her eyes scanned the room, but the apartment seemed strangely unfamiliar, yet the furniture, the decor, the smell.. everything about it felt... comfortable and home-like. Comfortable."Where... where am I?" she whispered, her voice rough-sounding

Amy's eyes opened slowly, her heart racing like a drum in her mind.She felt confused, the surrounding conditions surrounding her whirling in very big loops.The scent of germ-killing and the medicine-based brightness of a hospital room surrounded her.She blinked quickly, trying to drive away the haze from her thoughts, but everything seemed serious... far too serious to understand all at once.The first thing she became aware of was Liam's expression.He sat at the bedside, his hand gently placed on the edge of her mattress, his look locked onto her with an expression that was unclear to her.It was a blend of worry and another feeling... maybe a hint of guilt, but she was uncertain.The sudden rush of memories overloaded her at the same time, crashing into her like a tidal wave.The note. The will of her father. The act of betrayal. The extreme anger. Celine. Her closest friend. Liam in his bed.All of it... it came rushing back in a storm, and the intense pain of it almost took he

Amy sat at the kitchen table, staring at the letter in front of her.The neat, professional handwriting on the envelope was absolutely clear. Law Offices of Martin & Doyle.. the firm her father had used for years.But this time, the letter was having an address directed to her.And even though there is the existence of her mind trying to ignore it, the truth of its contents was already eating away at her.She exhaled sharply, her fingers curling into the paper as she tore it open.Her mind screamed object or action that interferes with mental focus, for anything other than facing the standing near and threatening reality of her father's affairs.But no matter how much she willed herself to look away, the words on the page pulled her in, constant, like a magnet to metal.Amy,As the only heir to your father's estate, we must inform you of an important condition related to your inheritance. Attached is a copy of your late father's will. You may already be aware of his different business

Amy Hawkes barely heard the front door click shut behind her, her mind too very much interested by the noisy and crazy circular flow of thoughts that kept hammering at her. The smell of rain clung to her coat as she tossed it onto the chair by the door, the fabric heavy with the weight of the afternoon storm. She had barely stepped into the apartment when she saw it.. a small, neatly folded envelope on the kitchen counter. It looked out of place, resting in the center of the black marble like a symbol of something that didn't belong. She frowned, setting her bag down with a sense of predicting something bad. Her eyes scanned the quiet room, the silence pressing in, heavy and stubborn. The once-a-year dinner.. their 2nd yearly recognition or celebration.. that had been planned for tonight.. the meal she'd spent weeks organizing.. seemed a world away from the chilled emptiness that now filled the apartment. Liam hadn't been home when she arrived. Not that it was unusual. He'd bee