Crushed Seraphim (25 page)

Violent knew he was playing her. He was using his striking resemblance to unbalance her.

“We’re fighting for another good person. Emma’s just like your Giovanni. She’s good, and she’s dying a little bit every second she’s in Hell. We can save her. Do it for impossible love, Violent. Do it for Giovanni. Make him proud.” Dean patted her hand.

After a moment she nodded. Even though she was answering Jack, she spoke to Dean. “Okay. For Giovanni, I’ll help you find her.”

Dean opened his arms and she stepped into him, closing her eyes and thinking of her past love.

Jack tapped her on the shoulder. “All right, Grandma. Let’s get to work.”

This book is the direct result of being loved by my wonderful husband. To my children, I revolve around you. To Mom and Dad, no dream is too big thanks to your example. To Mom and Dad D, your hearts are limitless. To Pam, let’s always laugh. Karen, that place in Boca will wait for us. To Kim and Jo, tons of thanks. Shannon, girl, I don’t deserve you, but I can’t quit you. Angels and Vixens, you keep it hot. My Bookshelves Girls, we’ll all get there. Alice, thanks for slapping me in the head and motivating me to give Jack room to run.

Jessica Royer Ocken, many thanks to you for your pretty edits. My words adore you. To the exquisite Omnific staff, your heart and dedication is in everything you do. Thank you!

Most of all, to my beautiful, smart, wonderful pre-readers. This story is dedicated to you.

There’s always been place in Debra Anastasia’s mind that contains other worlds, other people, and endless outcomes. As a child she played there often — the door was opened by reading. But eventually time and responsibilities clouded this place with cobwebs.

But now… Oh, now. Writing has helped her open that door again, and she was thrilled to find everything still in place and ready to play.

Debra now lives in Maryland with her family, and when she’s up late at night, stories leak from her fingers onto the keyboard. You’re invited to share her imagination, and she promises not to waste your time. “Let me tell you a story,” Debra says. “It is an honor to be your author.”