Title: Chapter 1 - First Date Redux

Oh and  i forgot to mention JJ, you are right that I loved seeing Brandon in a rage...i loved seeing him so quick to defend Diya against his brother's racist taunts...Tyler knew he would get a rise out of Brandon and wanted Diya to see...Brandon is angry but he should open up to Diya not push her away...Brandon's tendency for violence has something to do with what happened between he, Diane and Tyler...he's so hurt but Diya can help him heal if he lets her...I am so excited and waiting with bated breath for the next installment...I don't know how you do it, but I'm so glad you do...



Author's Response:

Thanks jahchannah!!!  Yep, you're right on all accounts.  That entire scene was a product of Tyler's puppetry.  Brandon has A LOT going on in his head.  Getting him to share it won't be easy.  But somebody's gotta try.  Or else, him and Diya won't make it : (

Reviewer: jahchannah Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 06:03 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

this f#cker doesn't have anything better to do than to try and torment Brandon. I hope he's thisclose to death. What a real ahole.



Author's Response:

That he is.  Thanks BellaChica!

Reviewer: BellaChica Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 06:02 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Oh yes, I forgot to mention, Tyler really deserved to get that @$$ whipped with those 'colored' and 'pay her' comments 🤔. Sounds like Brandon may be dealing with some separatists in his family as well. What's Tyler's deal?  Why does it seem like he's always trying to pop up and instigate conflict/fights?  His @$$ could use some therapy too!!



Author's Response:

Lol.  Yes he does.  Brandon's family is everything you think and then some.  More on that to come.  Thanks Musicluva! 

Reviewer: Musicluva Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 04:37 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Wow-weeeee!!!  Branny has some explain in' to do. What-in-the-h3ll ?!?!?!  Man, if I was Diya, I'd really be thinking that Branny has some serious unresolved issues swarming around in his head that could use some real therapy. I'd have to take a pause, and regroup on this here ish!  I would be wondering if he still has feelings for this lost love  No wonder Diya has her doubts. Branny seems to zone out when he's angry. I don't know ... Should we give him the benefit of the doubt and blame it on the liquor? ( btw, am I the only sheltered one here who doesn't know what 'breath mint' is 😳?  That went straight over my head ... I even tried to google it, and came up with nothing. ), but I digress ... I am feelin' Diya's pain!  I'm sure her head is spinning now. This was an, "oh my d@mn goodness?!?!?' update!  Branny is going to have to do some real @$$ kissing to make up for this here one 🤔.  Awesome update!  I'm clicking my mouse to see what's next. 

I just love your writing style. It flows beautifully. It's fresh, unique, unpredictable, engaging, and I love it!😍 



Author's Response:

Aw, thanks Musicluva!!!  That make me smile.  See  : D

Yeah, Brandon did have a moment Diya was in no way prepared for.  And your suspicions as to the cause are hers.  The liquor was a factor, but there are other, deeper issues Brandon's wrestling with.  He has a tough road ahead.  The only question is, will Diya be traveling it with him?

I'm guessing the breath mint mystery has less to do with you being sheltered and more to do with me being old(ish).  Back in the day, people would warn against taking breath mints from strangers in the club because pranksters and, more often, predators would use the ruse to slip people drugs.  Sad, I know.  

Thanks again!  Update in the works.

Reviewer: Musicluva Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 04:15 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Tyler deserved that ass whipping from Brandon. Brandon is one mean bastard and he is ready to protect Diya.  This chapter is cold, yet brillant.



Author's Response:

Thanks blueangel!  Yeah, Tyler really was asking for it, especially when he decided to come for Diya.  

Reviewer: blueangel Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 03:57 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

This date night started out so good but went from bad to worse...Brandon, baby, you lost so many cool points...he so didn't want Diya to see him like that way...he is hiding so much anger and pain that seems rooted in his family...Brandon is the son that got both parents while Tyler is the son that lost the opportunity for a two parent family...is there a long standing and deep seated resentment between brothers rooted in Brandon having what Tyler longed to have...at least that's how I see it...the hatred between the brothers is palpable and poor Diya really witnessed it first hand...Brandon has a dark side that he didn't want her to see...he didn't want her to judge and she hasn't but he went beyond shutting her out in his anger...wow...when you said it would get a lot worse before it got better, you weren't kidding...but where does that leave Diya...does she try to get Brandon to open up after a cool down period...does she let him go and can she really since she is in love with him...what will Brandon do once he has cooled down...will he apologize and more importantly will he open up to her...if he doesn't open up then it's hard to see if his relationship with Diya can survive...as of now, Diya is really all alone...but it can't be over yet...like I said, JJ, you are amazing at doing angst...I cried for Diya and felt her hurt...you are such an amazing talent and I can't wait to read more...you just get me all invested in these characters that I root for them to be happy, I feel their pain...brilliant...just brilliant...if I could give you three 10 star votes, I would...you rock...



Author's Response:

Aw, thanks jahchannah!!!  You are far too kind, and insightful : )  You're right, Brandon and Tyler's issues run deep and Brandon didn't want Diya anywhere near them.  In the process of trying to "create some distance," he did and said things he can't take back.  How they deal with that and all answers to your questions will be addressed in the near future.  Thanks again!

Reviewer: jahchannah Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 03:38 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Wow!!!! I forgot about his idiot brother. Brandon is so angry, too angry at least at Diya.  This is gonna be hard for her. Hopefully Brandon apologizes and explains himself soon. Glad Rafe was a gentleman and showing he may be coming out of his depression.



Author's Response:

Hopefully... Thanks Michmom2!

Reviewer: Michmom2 Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 02:53 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Poor Diya. I need Brandon to get it together.



Author's Response:

That he does.  Thanks Drea!

Reviewer: Drea Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 02:52 am

Title: Chapter 14 - Fallen Angels

Why did Brandon push Diya away?  Why is Tyler so hateful towards Brandon?  It was Tyler that did him wrong not the other way around.  I sense some jealousy well a whole lot of jealousy from Tyler.



Author's Response:

Answers to all your very pertinent questions will be revealed next chapter.  Thanks pmgayles!

Reviewer: pmgayles Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 13 2016 02:09 am

Title: Chapter 1 - First Date Redux

You restricted your story and it has taken me a minute to gain access. I didn't remember my password or the email address I used. I hope I didn't offend you because I wasn't criticiizing your writing.  I know there are plenty of people who can wait that long or longer.  I did with every guy I ever dated.  I know people who were virgins when they married.  I was reacting to the characters because that what good writers cause people to do.  Fuss at  and get frustrated over make believe people and situations.  You being one of my favorite writers have me reading your stories on my second laptop, because my  other one didn't fair well through some of your impossible romances.  This story is typical you. So many twist and turns until yes. I'll admit I have said. "  Arrrgh, damnit JJ what hell are you doing."  Yes, I scream at my screen when everything is going terribly wrong. Like when Brandon went to pee and Diya was left to fight off the pervert and Brandon didn't show up.  Then you instantly switch to that satisfying moment where Brandon addressed the issue he has with Diya, in his mind, always trying to pacify him by downplaying how she feels about certain situations.  I've been riding your rollercoasters for awhile.  So much so that I know better than to try to guess who sitting at his doorstep.  Instead I'm going to prepare myself for the drama that's about to unfold.  You know if they don't wait out these last two days before they consummate their relationship, Diya will blame every obstacle they encounter on the fact that they didn't wait.  One question-- does he have any tattoos of rainbows and ribbons? 



Author's Response:

Sorry you had trouble accessing the story.  And you didn't offend me at all.  Waiting any length of time to sex a significant other is an antiquated, completely unrealistic idea for some.  I responded the way I did simply to say it may not be in keeping with their habits or the new century norm, but it does happen--something it seems we both agree on.  

You are so right about Diya blaming whatever will befall them on her decision not to wait if they had, in fact, consummated the relationship.  Unfortunately, she's got two more days to make that mistake.  

LOL!!!  I do sincerely apologize for the property and peace of mind I've cost you.  Hopefully you're heavily insured, because things will get infinitely worse (or better, depending on whether or not you're an angst fan) *insert villainous cackling*

Thanks for the uber-awesome review, VeMo, and for being uber-awesome you : )

Reviewer: VeMo Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 10 2016 06:28 pm

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Who is outside the door?!?! What a cliffhanger :/ but thanks for the update! 



Author's Response:

I know.  I'm a stinker ; )

Thanks AnnieNathanson!

Reviewer: AnnieNathanson Signed [Report This]
Date: January 07 2016 07:28 am

Title: Chapter 1 - First Date Redux

Dear Author, 


New reader here, and I have to say that this is a beautifully well written story. Brandon and Diya's journey is not perfect but with each chapter, I become more and more curious. Their relationship is somewhat of a trial. The obstacles that they face, though unfortunate, seem very realistic and refreshing in the world of romance fiction. I admire their commitment and devotion to one other and I am grateful for the many layers that you've added to their character.


Brandon is a very personable male character. I don't think he's prince charming yet, overall, he does possess the physical attraction, charm other redeeming qualities that will have the ladies (myself included) swoon over him. I really love how he is not the perfect man but I still I believe he is just the "right one" for Diya. I am both intrigued and worried by his mysterious past. I can understand the need for his discretion but I also feel like perhaps, this is someone who is masking alot of pain and anger on the inside still. And regarding his struggle of revealing the stories, is it because he is still healing from his scars or just afraid of ruining her perception of him?


Diya is definitely unlike any character I've really read. I can appreciate her dedication and resolve to start anew with her faith. I have some qualms regarding her disfunctional family and truly question the logic behind some of her relatives' ideals. Despite all of that family mess, I hope that she can remain strong through it all. As she uncovers more about Brandon's world and the state of her feelings for him, she's starting to get overwhelmed which is understandable. But that girl is the best thing in his life at the moment and I truly hope she can overcome her father's influence and stick through thick and thin.Brandon needs her more than he realises and I also think he's not much in tune with the reality of the situation (as far as her family drama and his friendship with marisol) Up till now I see a storm brewing for these two and I hope they're prepared. 


This is truly a gem and I am glad to have found this story. I can't wait to read more. 



Author's Response:

Hey shiny0612!  Your assessment of both characters is spot on.  Brandon is fallible and very much concerned about Diya's perception of him.  And that all goes back to the yet to be (fully) revealed issues from his past.  He sees what he can accept.  Diya, on the other hand, worries about what she can't see, namely, the extent of Marisol's attachment to Brandon.  Between that, her deepening feelings, and her knowledge of the lengths her parents will go through to make sure she ends with someone they deem worthy, she is struggling.  Unfortunately for them both, it's destined to get worse before it gets better.  

Thanks for sharing your insight and for this awesome review!  Both are very much appreciated : )  

Reviewer: shiny0612 Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 07 2016 03:54 am

Title: Chapter 1 - First Date Redux

Omg thank you so much for posting an update! I haven't read it yet because I want to savor it and it's nice knowing I have something really good to look forward to. Thanks again and happy new year!



Author's Response:

You're so very welcome.  Thanks and Happy New Year to you too!

Reviewer: BlkPearl Signed [Report This]
Date: January 06 2016 03:57 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

That was really good.  I didn't want to stop reading but unfortunately ... i cannot wait to find out what happens next.  Thank you for your excellent story.



Author's Response:

You're welcome : )  Thank you for reading and reviewing, rosa1234!  I'll try not to keep you waiting too long.

Reviewer: rosa1234 Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 06 2016 12:27 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

After reading this again, I'm also convinced that it may not be Marisol based on Brannys reaction (clenching his fist). Sitting on pins and needles waiting to find out who it is. 😏



Author's Response:

I promise not to keep you waiting too long for the answer.  Thanks Musicluva!

Reviewer: Musicluva Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 05 2016 06:37 am

Title: Chapter 1 - First Date Redux

It's either Tyler or the cat that's waiting outside the door. I'm convinced.

 

 

I'll scream if it's Marisol.  I can't stand girls like her



Author's Response:

I can neither confirm nor deny the identity of the surprise visitor.  But thanks for commenting, intheroar!

Reviewer: intheroar Signed [Report This]
Date: January 05 2016 12:07 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

I know where Diya is coming from in terms of her family. Shoot I refuse to chose a man over family when it looks like that man will leave my ass in a heart beat to play hero for some childhood friend who he kissed in the past.

I like Brandon I really do, I may even be in love with him but where the hell was he when Diya needed saving, that's some messed up shit right there. Call me irrational  but he should have held his pee you don't leave a hot girl alone in a club. What he thought no other dude was gonna find her attractive and approach her? Then he had the nerve to manhandle her after...

Now this Aryan giant is a set up and I wanna know who is behind it I won't put it past her family, his family or the bitch who refuses to find a man of her own and uses her children to interfere in another woman's  relationship. 

All ranting aside... I'm rely not a bitter person just been in Diya's shoes. Ms. JJ your writing  was excellent as usual thank you for taking time out to share with us.



Author's Response:

You're very welcome, Sharlene.  Thank you!  I don't think you're bitter at all.  You've brought up some very valid points I don't think anyone else has mentioned.  

Diya's family is dysfunctional as hell, but dependable in their predictability, and her father, in his love--despite the lunacy.  Catapulting that for a man who's behavior and friendship have become somewhat unpredictable, or troublesome in their predictability (in that he's always playing hero to Marisol), can't be easy or all that advisable.  Brandon always manages to be there for Marisol when she needs him, but was MIA when Diya was in distress.  However understanding she wants to be, that's got to mess with her head and make her wonder if alienating herself from her family is a good idea when Brandon's not willing to sacrifice some of his Marisol-related hero duties for her.  

As for the giant, he wasn't a plant.  Just a random violent douche.  But that would have been an interesting twist. 

Reviewer: sharlene Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 06:59 pm

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

When I think about it...Diya wincing under Brandon's fisted grip upon seeing their visitor makes me think it's not Marisol (seeing a woman as petite as Marisol shouldn't provoke such a reaction, I would think)...you know how to keep me coming back which is testimony to your gift with the pen, JJ...



Author's Response:

Hmm...That's something to think about...

Thanks jahchannah! 

Reviewer: jahchannah Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 06:13 pm

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Great story! I love it so so much. The chemistry between Diya and Brandon is fire... I can't wait for them to finally make love as there will be fireworks. This story continues to keep me entrapped. You're a brilliant author, keep up the amazing work x



Author's Response:

Aw, thanks, Twin!!!  So glad to know you're feeling Brandon and Diya's connection and enjoying their story.

Reviewer: Twin Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 12:48 pm

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. not there! my guess is that tyler came to visit - lol!

glad that diy finally fessed up about her family - branny needs to prepare himself for the war. not battle. ahead.

great update. hands downs. feels real and is so freekin well-written - like always it was a great read and pleasure! thank you, JJ!!

p.s. seems like diya will keep her promise to God because shit keep on happpening whenever she ready to get down and super dirty, hahahaha!



Author's Response:

You are absolutely right.  Brandon does need to prepare himself.  And even that won't do him a hell of a lot of good.  And yes, Baby Jesus seems to have done Diya another commitment preserving solid.  But she's got two more days and ample time to f*ck up, literally.  We'll see if our girl can hold out.  As for who the person behind the pop-in is, I'll never tell...at least not until next chapter.

Thanks for the fantabulous review, Yuukiyanagi!!!

Reviewer: Yuukiyanagi Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 09:41 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Awww crap!!! I swear just when they were about to consummate this relationship a wrench is tossed!!! Who the hell is in the hallway? Not Marisol, no that's too easy right? The ex love of his life maybe?? Crap crap crap how am I gonna sleep with this cliffhanger looming over me?! JJ I hope your muse is in overdrive because I need another update like now!!! OMG this chapter was amazing. I was scared for them in the cab, but I'm happy Diya finally fessed up. Brandon isn't stupid. He knows she's hiding him and if he's willing to stand up for her she must do the same. She needs to trust Brandon and tell her family to suck it up. Then I still think they need some major sexing to take the edge off. Poor Brandon is frustrated as hell!  I believe they love each other but Diya needs to stop being so scared of loving him. Ok, please update again soon. I loved this chapter, but then I love everything you write. 



Author's Response:

Thanks Michmom2!!!  That makes me smile.  See : D

I can't say when, but the confessing and sexing will happen.  In the meantime, hang tight and nap when no one's looking.  Answers to who the hell's waiting up the hall are on the way.

Reviewer: Michmom2 Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 04:54 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

 I think the brother is the stop sign. I'm glad  Diya told about her family. She may have to make a choice.



Author's Response:

If it isn't made for her.  Thanks Drea.

Reviewer: Drea Signed [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 04:44 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Thanks so much for this. I love that Diyabis finally opening up and that Brandon isn't letting her off of the hook. I hope that get a moments peace at some point soon. Great writing this made my night. 



Author's Response:

: )  Thanks msjonsy!  Don't worry.  Brandon and Diya will eventually have their moment in the sun.

Reviewer: msjonsy Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 03:49 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Diya needs to figure out what she wants in terms of a relationship with herself, Brandon and her family. I know that she started her journey with herself, but she needs to stop holding things back from Brandon and her family.  There are times to be nice and times when being nice won't get you what you want.  She needs to step out on faith that everything will work out the way it needs to and if those that were with you before are not because of it, then they were not meant to be. Unfortunately, its like that sometimes.

Also, if Brandon knows that Diya is uncomfortable with some of his behavior and she's lying about how she feels, then why doesn't he modify it?  He knows she's not ok with him and Marisol being so close, why doesn't he try to set some boundaries?  I don't know.  I guess i'm annoyed with both of them. :- I can't wait for the next chapter



Author's Response:

Diya does need to figure out what she wants from all the relationships in her life.  Problem is, she's only now realizing and/or coming to terms with the fact she wasn't getting it.  Why Brandon doesn't set more boundaries for Marisol is a tiny bit more complicated.  More on that in future chapters.  Thanks dcphoenix1! 

Reviewer: dcphoenix1 Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 03:43 am

Title: Chapter 13 - Date Night, First Fight (Revised)

Who is the intruder?  Is that hope it isn't that ho?  Diya quit lying about your feelins it is truly annoying.  Does she plan on hiding Brandon forever, how will their relationship grow?   Will she ever have the courage to admit her feeling for Brandon?  That man is a keeper!!  Joelle you made my evening with this update!!!



Author's Response:

I can't say who the surprise visitor is, but I can say Diya won't be able to hide her feelings forever.  Whether it's volunteered or she's outed, the turth will come out.  Thanks pmgayles!

Reviewer: pmgayles Signed starstarstarstarstar [Report This]
Date: January 04 2016 02:25 am



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Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.