Always at First Read online

  We didn't.

  The past always finds a way back.

  Our story continues and we are far from our happily ever after, but maybe one day soon we will figure it all out.

  I leave the kitchen to find her once more. Hauling her to me, I spin her around and she laughs, letting her head fall back.

  I love this woman, and I will do everything possible to make all her dreams come true.

  Dear Readers,

  I have decided to write another book for Angel and Kevin. Not at First and Always at First are stories about their journey to come together and become one, but with everything they've been through, I believe they deserve a book dedicated to just them. I hope to release this one before late fall, 2014.

  Also, I've decided to write Marcus and Ellie's story. Their relationship is complex and all-consuming with a love that will leave you hurting. Their book is set to be released early 2015.

  And then there's Roman, my complicated and misunderstood boy. He's getting his own story as well; a dark story that will make you want to pull his strong, sexy, body into your arms and keep him there. Remember the girl locked in his secret compound? Her name is Camilla and she's the heroine of his story. Camilla and Roman's story is planned for a late winter release, 2014.

  Thank you all so much for reading my books.

  Much love,

  Phalla

  My Beta Readers – Amanda Wooden, Stephannie Marks Tolitsky, Nicole Fehneman Kelly, Brett Burrow and Deana Wolstenholme. I’m so very thankful for all of you. I don’t know how I can ever thank you ladies enough. Always at First, would’ve never become what it is now, without your suggestions, ideas and your love for my book. Can I keep you all, forever?

  My Editor – Jennifer Roberts Hall. I don’t think I can write without you.

  My Proofreader – Laura Hampton. Thank you for coming into my life at the right time. The stress I had vanished, after I handed over my book to you.

  Phalla S. Rios lives in California with her husband, a daughter and a goofy pit bull. She loves to read and write while drinking her favorite tea, Joy, from Starbucks. During her spare time, she is usually at the movies or looking for the next best place to eat. She often refers to herself as a foodie. Her debut novel is Not at First. She is currently writing the sequel, Always at First.

  You can reach her by email:

  [email protected]

  You can find her at:

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  Goodreads

  Table of Contents

  Dedication

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Epilogue

  A Note to Readers

  Acknowledgements

  About the Author