I’m currently working on my next anthology, Burn: A Boys Behaving Badly Anthology, and over the next couple of months before the anthology is available, I want to remind readers of all the lovely, scrumptious stories that have come before! Today, I’m highlighting Silver Soldiers, which features stories about older military and ex-military men. The snippet I’ve chosen to share today is an adorable and very sexy story written by Brenda Margriet, who will also have a story in Burn. I love that so many authors come back to contribute and be part of the fun. I also love that I get the chance to introduce authors who are beginning their writer’s journey.

Enjoy the excerpt! Enter to win the contest! Have a wonderful day!

Silver Soldiers

Salt-and-pepper hotties with crow’s feet earned through rugged training and years of combat… Former soldiers finding their footing after their first careers, or current soldiers nearing the end of their military careers… They’re ready to find the right partner to put down roots, ones who aren’t afraid of scars and rough edges.

Excerpt from “Operation Purple Sparkle Diamond” by Brenda Margriet…

A resolute Afghan veteran deploys on his most desperate mission yet—wooing the hesitant heart of his daughter’s kindergarten teacher…

Hugh Cromwell took his position. From this vantage point, he had a clear view of the target as well as the surrounding territory. Cold nipped at his ears and nose. He flexed his gloved fingers cautiously and resisted the urge to adjust his woolen cap. Any movement might draw unwanted attention.

An ear-splitting alarm pierced the air. He didn’t flinch, intent on his mission.

The chaos of the snow-covered schoolyard resolved into haphazard order as children bundled in brightly colored parkas, mittens, and toques rushed to join their class lines. Savannah skipped into place, her current best friend Ashleigh at her side. His gaze tracked the straggle of kindergarteners to its head, where Ms. Judith Forsyte stood, vivid eyes gleaming in delight, lush mouth curving in welcome. Her brown hair, streaked with gunmetal grey, was piled on top of her head, leaving the sweep of her neck bare to the winter chill.

His breath caught, as it always did. For three months, ever since their initial contact on the first day of school, his pulse had raced and his groin had tightened whenever she was in sight. Talking to her was almost unbearably arousing. Her calm, confident tone and direct, firm gaze reduced him to the incoherence of a green recruit, his replies not much more than grunts and growls.

Wind whipped across the parking lot, swirled past him, and tugged at the thick wrap draped over her shoulders. She clutched it tighter, arms crossed under her rounded breasts, and he suppressed irritation. Why the hell didn’t she put on a coat when she came to get the kids? Sure, she was only outside for a minute or two, but every soldier knew to be prepared at all times.

Ms. Forsyte spun on her heel, the wrap belling around her, and led her tiny charges into the three-story building. Loss tugged at his chest. That brief glimpse would have to last him until he picked up Savannah after school.

He could wait. The Army had taught him patience. It had also taught him to set goals and implement strategies. As of now, Operation Purple Sparkle Diamond—this was the last time he’d allow his daughter to provide a code name—was in motion.

Contest

For a chance to win a FREE download of any one of these anthologies, let me know 1) whether you’re a fan of short stories, and 2) which of these anthologies appeals to you! I’ll choose TWO winners!

Click on covers to learn more about these anthologies!

        The post Flashback: Silver Soldiers–A Boys Behaving Badly Anthology (Contest — 2 Winners!) first appeared on Delilah Devlin.