I thought about Victor’s intuition. Without my ever having to ask, he was always there whenever I needed him the most. Victor’s mother had the same intuition. I remembered how she’d warned me about James—just as Victor was trying to do now.

“I know you want to, but you can’t believe what he’s saying,” Victor said. “It’s in his blood to say these things. He’ll say and do anything to get you to go back with him.”

“I don’t have to say or do anything,” James said to me. “You know I love you. That I’ve always loved you.”

These two boys who each held equal parts of my heart would be the end of me.

“What’s it going to be, love?” Victor asked.

Pretending, book 3

Book 3, Pretending, is available today on all platforms!

Acknowledgments

I thank my Creator. Without whom I would have nothing and be nothing.

To my husband Andrew, I don’t know what day it is because every day with you is a new beginning. I love you and thank you for your support and tolerance of the oh-so-many characters who are hanging about in our lives. “Not even in death.” You promised.

Connor, I simply cannot express how much I love and adore you. I am amazed by your ability to be a light to all who know you. I am so proud of you and love you more than anything. One day, I hope to be just like you. And My Stephanie, thank you for your sweet spirit. We are truly blessed to call you daughter. I love you more than you can possibly know. I cannot imagine a time you were not a part of our family. Thank you also for being the first reader of Searching and the Fading Series’ biggest fan. 😊

Charles and AnnMarie—I am so proud to call you brother and sister. I love you both so much. Much love also to Kristi, Greg, Kristin, Mary, Nick, Trey, Sunny, Preston, Sarah, Karen, Hannah, Harry, Emily, and Megan.

Great big thanks to Clean Teen Publishing for believing in The Fading Series and giving my words such a wonderful home. It is my privilege to work with you on this project. Special thanks to Melanie Newton, Rebecca Gober, and Courtney Knight. I am super grateful to my awesome editor Cynthia Shepp for her expert guidance. Many heartfelt 😉 thanks to Marya Heidel for another gorgeous cover.

Thanks also to Khloie McClain and Lydia Tucker for being early readers. Your enthusiasm for the series is inspiring. To all of my amazing readers, it means so much to me when you stop to say hello at signings or take the time to post reviews. I truly appreciate your support.

#VictorLeathJames

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