Lucky in lace, p.1
Lucky in Lace, page 1
Lucky in Lace
Synopsis
Juliette Jennings lives her life like a tightly laced corset—not that she’d ever wear one. As a business owner of a stationery store, structure is her favorite. But when her best friend and her ex fall head over heels for each other, everything unravels and leaves her exposed. Even worse, a scandalous lingerie shop has moved in next door, and its tantalizing window displays will drive away her conservative customers. If only the owner would turn off the charm, Juliette is sure she could stop imagining her in nothing but the shop’s lacy best sellers.
Peyton Lane loves a clean slate. In fact, she desperately needs one after a series of bad choices. She also likes sexy things, and uptight Juliette next door would be a fun bow to untie. But when Peyton’s feelings enter new territory, she realizes the world might be scarier than she’d planned. Juliette has Peyton longing for forever on one hand and lacing up her running shoes with the other.
What’re a structured stationery store owner and a sexy lingerie peddler to do?
Reviewers Love Melissa Brayden
“Melissa Brayden has become one of the most popular novelists of the genre, writing hit after hit of funny, relatable, and very sexy stories for women who love women.”—Afterellen.com
The Forever Factor
“Melissa Brayden never fails to impress. I read this in one day and had a smile on my face throughout. An easy read filled with the snappy banter and heartfelt longing that Melissa writes so effortlessly.”—Sapphic Book Review
The Last Lavender Sister
“It’s also a slow burn, with some gorgeous writing. I’ve had to take some breaks while reading to delight in a turn of phrase here and there, and that’s the best feeling.”—Jude in the Stars
“I have loved many of Melissa Brayden’s characters over the years, but I think Aster Lavender may be my favorite of all of them.”—Sapphic Book Review
“The Last Lavender Sister is not only a romance but also a family saga and a journey of transformation for both characters.”—LezReview Books
Exclusive
“Melissa Brayden’s books have always been a source of comfort, like seeing a friend you’ve lost touch with but can pick right up where you left off. They have always made my heart happy, and this one does the same.”—Sapphic Book Review
Marry Me
“A bride-to-be falls for her wedding planner in this smoking hot, emotionally mature romance from Brayden…Brayden is remarkably generous to her characters, allowing them space for self-exploration and growth.”—Publishers Weekly
“When I open a book by Melissa Brayden, I usually know what to expect. This time, she really surprised me. In a good way.”—Rainbow Literary Society
To the Moon and Back
“To the Moon and Back is all about Brayden’s love of theatre, onstage and backstage, and she does a delightful job of sharing that love…Brayden set the scene so well I knew what was coming, not because it’s unimaginative but because she made it obvious it was the only way things could go. She leads the reader exactly where she wants to take them, with brilliant writing as usual. Also, not everyone can make office supplies sound sexy.”—Jude in the Stars
“Melissa Brayden does what she does best, she delivers amazing characters, witty banter, all while being fun and relatable.”—Romantic Reader Blog
Back to September
“You can’t go wrong with a Melissa Brayden romance. Seriously, you can’t. Buy all of her books. Brayden sure has a way of creating an emotional type of compatibility between her leads, making you root for them against all odds. Great settings, cute interactions, and realistic dialogue.”—Bookvark
What a Tangled Web
“[T]he happiest ending to the most amazing trilogy. Melissa Brayden pulled all of the elements together, wrapped them up in a bow, and presented the reader with Happily Ever After to the max!”—Kitty Kat’s Book Review Blog
Beautiful Dreamer
“I love this book. I want to kiss it on its face…I’m going to stick Beautiful Dreamer on my to-reread-when-everything-sucks pile, because it’s sure to make me happy again and again.”—Smart Bitches Trashy Books
“Beautiful Dreamer is a sweet and sexy romance, with the bonus of interesting secondary characters and a cute small-town setting.”—Amanda Chapman, Librarian (Davisville Free Library, RI)
Two to Tangle
“Melissa Brayden does it again with a sweet and sexy romance that leaves you feeling content and full of happiness. As always, the book is full of smiles, fabulous dialogue, and characters you wish were your best friends.”—The Romantic Reader
“I loved it. I wasn’t sure Brayden could beat Joey and Becca and their story, but when I started to see reviews mentioning that this was even better, I had high hopes and Brayden definitely lived up to them.”—LGBTQreader.com
Entangled
“Ms. Brayden has a definite winner with this first book of the new series, and I can’t wait to read the next one. If you love a great enemies-to-lovers, feel-good romance, then this is the book for you.”—Rainbow Reflections
“Entangled is a simmering slow burn romance, but I also fully believe it would be appealing for lovers of women’s fiction. The friendships between Joey, Maddie, and Gabriella are well developed and engaging as well as incredibly entertaining…All that topped off with a deeply fulfilling happily ever after that gives all the happy sighs long after you flip the final page.”—Lily Michaels: Sassy Characters, Sizzling Romance, Sweet Endings
Love Like This
“Brayden upped her game. The characters are remarkably distinct from one another. The secondary characters are rich and wonderfully integrated into the story. The dialogue is crisp and witty.”—Frivolous Reviews
Sparks Like Ours
“Brayden sets up a flirtatious tit-for-tat that’s honest, relatable, and passionate. The women’s fears are real, but the loving support from the supporting cast helps them find their way to a happy future. This enjoyable romance is sure to interest readers in the other stories from Seven Shores.”—Publishers Weekly
Hearts Like Hers
“Once again Melissa Brayden stands at the top. She unequivocally is the queen of romance.”—Front Porch Romance
Eyes Like Those
“Brayden’s story of blossoming love behind the Hollywood scenes provides the right amount of warmth, camaraderie, and drama.”—RT Book Reviews
Strawberry Summer
“This small-town second-chance romance is full of tenderness and heart. The 10 Best Romance Books of 2017.”—Vulture
“Strawberry Summer is a tribute to first love and soulmates and growing into the person you’re meant to be. I feel like I say this each time I read a new Melissa Brayden offering, but I loved this book so much that I cannot wait to see what she delivers next.”—Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
First Position
“Brayden aptly develops the growing relationship between Ana and Natalie, making the emotional payoff that much sweeter. This ably plotted, moving offering will earn its place deep in readers’ hearts.”—Publishers Weekly
Soho Loft Series
“The trilogy was enjoyable and definitely worth a read if you’re looking for solid romance or interconnected stories about a group of friends.”—The Lesbrary
How Sweet It Is
“‘Sweet’ is definitely the keyword for this well-written, character-driven lesbian romance novel. It is ultimately a love letter to small town America, and the lesson to remain open to whatever opportunities and happiness comes into your life.”—Bob Lind, Echo Magazine
Heart Block
“The story is enchanting with conflicts and issues to be overcome that will keep the reader turning the pages. The relationship between Sarah and Emory is achingly beautiful and skillfully portrayed. This second offering by Melissa Brayden is a perfect package of love—and life to be lived to the fullest. So grab a beverage and snuggle up with a comfy throw to read this classic story of overcoming obstacles and finding enduring love.”—Lambda Literary Review
Lucky in Lace
Brought to you by
eBooks from Bold Strokes Books, Inc.
http://www.boldstrokesbooks.com
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By the Author
Romances
Waiting in the Wings
Heart Block
How Sweet It Is
First Position
Strawberry Summer
Beautiful Dreamer
Back to September
To the Moon and Back
Marry Me
Exclusive
The Last Lavender Sister
The Forever Factor
Lucky in Lace
Soho Loft Romances:
Kiss the Girl
Just Three Words
Ready or Not
Seven Shores Romances:
Eyes Like Those
Hearts Like Hers
Sparks Like Ours
Love Like This
Tangle Valley Romances:
Entangled
Two to Tangle
What a Tangled Web
&nbs p; Lucky in Lace
© 2023 By Melissa Brayden. All Rights Reserved.
ISBN 13: 978-1-63679-435-8
This Electronic Original Is Published By
Bold Strokes Books, Inc.
P.O. Box 249
Valley Falls, NY 12185
First Edition: March 2023
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.
This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.
Credits
Editor: Ruth Sternglantz
Production Design: Stacia Seaman
Cover Design by Inkspiral Design
eBook Design by Toni Whitaker
Acknowledgments
Redemption is tricky. And forgiveness can be complicated. But I’ve always been a sucker for the exploration of the things that make us human, relatable, fallible, and real. Most of my books fall into the fun and flirty category, but Peyton Lane’s story lies somewhere outside of that. It didn’t matter. It was an arc that I felt compelled to write along with her unique set of circumstances. She isn’t a typical romance novel character. She has baggage, a past, and a lot to overcome. I think we can all relate to grappling with the results of a mistake and working to come out of the darkness of its shadow. Even when we’re the ones punishing ourselves most. In the end, it’s my hope that this story resonates with you in some small way as you move through Peyton and Juliette’s romance.
I want to thank Sandy Lowe for the kernel of an idea that blossomed into more. Inspiration sparks from a variety of places, even your senior editor!
Much gratitude to my own editor, Ruth Sternglantz, who helped these characters grow into all they became. Thank you to the production team at Bold Strokes Books (Cindy, Stacia, Toni, as well as Inkspiral Design) who brought this book to life.
It takes a village, and I have a great one that includes the meticulous proofreaders who devote their skills to catching the things I did not. You’re invaluable.
When Radclyffe is your publisher, you know you’re in good hands, and as always, I’m humbled and happy to learn from the best.
Hugs and relief that I have wonderful friends to pick me up when I’m down and to share a laugh with along the way. Writing community, you’re amazing, generous, and entertaining in the best sense. To my people, I love you. There are now too many of you to list! What a fabulous problem! I’m blessed.
To Alan, my children, my family, my dogs, my potted plants, and favorite TV show characters—you make my life worth living.
Lastly, thank you, fantastic readers, for continuing to pick up my books and share a little bit of your day with me. You have no idea how much I value our connection. I’d hug each of you if I could.
For anyone in need of a second chance
Prologue
Three years ago
Free air felt different than prison air. Lighter with all sorts of competing aromas. Tree bark, car exhaust, baked goods, rain. They mingled together in an overpowering jumble. Not unwelcome, just all consuming. There also seemed to be lots more of it, air, hovering in the wide expanse of freedom. Peyton Lane couldn’t imagine ever taking free air for granted again. She’d been released from prison exactly eight days prior, and in that time, only the air had been hospitable.
She’d put in applications at twelve different businesses, only to have four of them inform her it was against their policy to hire her after they perused her application. The other eight had yet to call. That was an ominous sign. She’d need money soon and had to make something happen for herself. A nonprofit program for recent parolees set her up with a studio apartment located above a pretty hopping burger joint, which left her place smelling like freshly cooked burgers she couldn’t afford. Didn’t mean she didn’t long for one, imagining the melted cheese curling to the edge of the burger in a torturous daydream. Even her clothes carried the smoky smell of the grill, which likely didn’t help her job search. She had four outfits in total, also courtesy of the do-gooder program, and a hundred and ten dollars left to her name. Next month’s rent was all on her, and the slightest bit of panic eased in as she walked the sidewalk in front of a strip mall. She often selected those because she could hit half a dozen businesses on foot, increasing her chances of someone taking a chance on her. She’d practiced smiling in the mirror, because there hadn’t been much of that where she’d been the last four years. Remembering the basics took a lot more effort than she’d anticipated. The world was so much bigger, so much louder, and full of complications she’d forgotten how to juggle.
Peyton paused her search on the sidewalk, depressed because the cosmetics store two doors down had seemed so promising. The dashed hope hurt more than no hope at all. But she hadn’t cried. She’d been numb to true emotion for years, moving through each day like an automaton. The practice had made the time she had to serve easier. The owner had chatted away with Peyton, who still struggled with conversations with strangers after having been absent from the larger world for so long. She’d withdrawn into herself, and now it took work to pull herself back out one piece at a time. Surely, others could immediately tell something was wrong with her, which only made Peyton all the more self-conscious. She used to be good at connecting with other people, and dammit, she would be again. She’d make sure of it. If only someone out there would give her a chance, even a small one.
“I’m so sorry,” the woman said after five minutes of what seemed like a great interview. But then she’d scanned the application, understanding registering on her face. “We just don’t seem to have what you’re looking for right now. But I’ll hold on to this.” She held up the sheet of paper with Peyton’s handwriting all over it. A lie.
After a short pep talk, and a gathering of her socials kills, she’d headed into the juice bar next door. Peppy, bright, and fun. She could imagine enjoying her days in a cheerful place like this one.
She tossed the owner her best smile, hoping to show that she could match the place’s vibe. “I’m looking for full-time, but part-time would be fine. Anything, really. I’m happy to pay my dues.” A pause. “And I love juice. I learn fast, too.”
The woman in the lime-green Juice or Die T-shirt studied her like a bug. “You’re eager.”
“Yes.” A smile that she prayed sold her confidence. “I need a job.”
“Bless your heart,” the woman said as she scanned the application, sympathy all over her face. That had to be a good sign. “How long have you been out?”
“A little over a week.”
She placed the application facedown on the counter. “I wish I could help you, but I just don’t have the need for extra help. That’s not a line, either. I’d hire you on the spot if I could.”
“Oh.” Her hopeful heart hit the pavement. “I understand.” So close.
“I could use a hand.”
Peyton turned to the woman in line behind her who’d been studying the menu but also, perhaps, overheard their conversation. “You would?”
“I’m two doors down at the sassiest little underwear boutique you’ll ever walk into.”
“Hi, Candy,” the juice woman said. “Your usual?”
“Yes, with an extra splash of raspberry because this might just be my lucky day.” She smiled at Peyton, and in that very moment hope appeared in the form of a woman in her sixties with big white hair and perfectly applied makeup. “Oh, whatever my new employee is having, too. You just toss that on my bill.”
“Oh,” Peyton said, unaccustomed to kindness. It fit like a shirt that was too big and made for someone else. She embraced it anyway, grateful. “Thank you.” She smiled. A real one this time. She’d already caught a glimpse of the menu and, even though she was desperately thirsty, had decided she couldn’t afford the inflated prices.
“What’ll it be?” the woman behind the counter asked.
