Samara: A Kilenya Romance Page 7

  We introduced the last song together. Matt’s guitar solo was amazing—the cheers cascaded over me like a thundering waterfall. The elation I felt at that moment was more than anything I’d ever experienced before.

  The last strands of chords faded away—barely heard over the roar of the crowd, probably amplified by my feelings. But none of that mattered. Mark rushed on stage with us, pulled our guitars away and dragged us to our feet. We bowed a few times, then I felt Matt take my hand. I turned to him, looking up at him curiously.

  The sounds of the people around us disappeared. Matt reached for me, took my other hand, pulled me to him. His eyes full of tenderness.

  “Samara Oldroyd, I love you.”

  It was the first time he’d ever said my name. Samara. I gazed into his eyes, feeling my heart opening to him completely, the pain of the past month leaving, healing, as he drew closer and closer, bending his face toward mine.

  Our lips met, and we shared the sweetest kiss I’d ever had. It was simple and beautiful, full of adoration and trust and love. The warmth of his lips on mine and his arms around me sent shivers down my spine.

  Suddenly, I heard someone in the audience screaming, and Matt and I pulled apart. Of course, it was Molly.

  “I can’t believe I put up with that for even a week and a half,” Matt said.

  “You get used to it.” I laughed. “Uh . . . that doesn’t mean I want you to date her again.”

  Matt laughed with me, and leaned in for another kiss as the curtain closed.

  I might not have Julliard anymore, but I had Matt. And I knew everything else would work out just fine.

  Matt sang our last number one more time, nearly a whisper in my ear.

  I’m so glad I found you

  I’m not gonna lose you

  Whatever it takes I will stay here with you

  And we can build this dream together

  Standing strong forever

  Nothing’s gonna stop us now.

  ###

  The Kilenya Series by Andrea Pearson:

  The Key of Kilenya

  The Ember Gods, Kilenya Series Book Two

  Kilenya Romances by Andrea Pearson:

  Samara: A Kilenya Romance

  Paperback Versions Available through Amazon:

  The Key of Kilenya

  The Ember Gods

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  About the Author

  Photo by Glenn Pearson

  Andrea Pearson is a music enthusiast who enjoys teaching and playing many instruments, especially the piano and viola. She loves hiking and biking with her husband, oil painting, reading, watching movies, spending time with family and close friends, and thunderstorms.

  Andrea and her husband live in an awesome neighborhood in a valley that was once covered by vast amounts of water. Connect with her online:

  Facebook

  Twitter

  Blog

  Website

  Join her email mailing list

  (She doesn't sell or misuse email addresses or send long, frequent emails)

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  Acknowledgments:

  First, I’d like to thank my husband for encouraging me to get out of my comfort zone and write something non-fantasy themed. :-) His help and support was monumental in this project.

  I’d also like to say thanks to my wonderful parents, Karl and Betty, for believing in me and always being there, and my in-laws, James and Nancy, for their love and encouragement.

  Next, my beta readers: Mom, Jaclyn Weist, Sarah Kammer, Kim and Tani Lee, Jennifer Skinner, Emilie Ronhaar, Natalie Barton, and Patty Buchmiller. Your enthusiasm and suggestions for making Samara better were so very appreciated!

  I'd also like to thank Glenn Pearson for the great photos. You rock!

  Last, my readers, for asking for more books to read. Thanks for your support and loyalty!