Rufescent, adj.: tinged with red or rufous.
Dean Cyveck's mental state can be described in this word, and no other. Strangers see a small, shy, stubborn tomboy. Dean sees differently- nothing but abuse and plots. Plots of murder. Plots to murder her abusive brother.
When they move to a new town, Dean's plans get thrown out of whack, and she must reform them while trying to make friends, defeat stereotypes, get over Louie Duerlo, her ex, and figure out Jacqueline Khan.
Many things can be rufescent. If everything goes well, Kendall Cyveck's body will be one of them.
(First attempt at a romance/teen fiction, and yes I did cheat my way out of straight-up romance by throwing a murder plot in there. Oops.)
A trip to Fiji with her dismissive boyfriend and his alluring mother lands Valentina into the most unexpected romance of her lifetime.
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College student Valentina has been at a standstill in her relationship for three years, so when her boyfriend invites her on vacation to Fiji with his estranged fashion designer mother, Val can't think of anything worse. Mothers-in-law are notoriously one of the most dreadful aspects of a committed relationship, right? But nobody prepared Val for the aloof, refined Diana, who at first seems to absolutely detest her but soon warms under the tropical sun. As a unique and steamy connection sizzles and the two begin sneaking around, Val wonders if she's finally found the love she's been looking for in the most unexpected of places. But can their spark last, and is it worth what it will cost them?
WARNING: This story contains mature themes such as depictions of domestic abuse and coercion that may be upsetting to some readers. Reader discretion is advised.