Elizma Du Toit:Ever After Awaits

MainCharacters

Layla Kincaid: Layla is a strong, independent young woman who has faced significant challenges, including her mother's neglect and the loss of her college fund. She is resilient and determined, often finding solace in her friendships with Becca and Cade. Layla's interactions with Hunter and Xavier add complexity to her emotional journey. Hunter: Hunter is a charming and confident waiter who immediately catches Layla's eye. He is flirtatious and bold, often making Layla blush with his direct compliments and subtle touches. Despite his initial bravado, Hunter shows a deeper, more caring side as he gets to know Layla. Cade: Cade is a sweet and considerate barista who becomes a constant presence in Layla's life. He is supportive and gentlemanly, always looking out for Layla and making her feel valued. His genuine kindness and patience make him a comforting figure for Layla. Layla and Hunter: Their relationship starts with a strong physical attraction, but as they interact more, Layla begins to see Hunter's deeper qualities. Layla and Cade: Their relationship is built on mutual respect and support. Cade's consistent kindness and attentiveness help Layla navigate her emotional struggles.

Main Themes

The novel explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the complexities of familial and romantic relationships. Through Layla's journey, it highlights the importance of finding one's own path and the strength that comes from overcoming personal challenges.

Hot Chapters

Chapter 1

As I come back to my senses, other features come to my attention: a strong jawline that could cut diamonds, golden flawless skin, dark brown (almost black) curly hair that is cropped closely on the sides but longish on top (perfect for my fingers to glide through and grab on to), a tall muscular figure that gives off swimmer vibes and a sinful mouth that is currently tipped upwards into the most delicious, panty-melting smirk. Oh my!

Chapter 2

I lift my head with my customer service smile in place when I lock eyes with a blonde adonis with the most light-blue eyes I’ve ever seen. He gives me a shy smile as he steps up to the counter and I have to swallow twice before I get my voice to work. 'Welcome to Beantree, what can I get for you today?' 'Hi, are you Tessa?' 'No, sorry. Are you here to interview for the new barista job?'

Chapter 3

Cade walks into the breakroom while I’m pondering on my reply to my mom and immediately sees something is bugging me. 'What’s wrong? Who do I need to fight?' His offer makes me smile at him slightly. 'My mom, as per usual, has decided to throw a giant-sized turd in my pathway.' He grimaces, stands closer, and bumps his shoulder into me. 'No matter what, I know you’re strong enough to get through this. And even if you’re not, I’m willing to run away with you to Vegas.'

Chapter 4

I follow her to the back of the restaurant towards a table with an older gentleman who is already seated with his back to us. As we near the table, he stands and turns around. He glances at my mom for a second, but then his gaze immediately locks on to me. He starts at my feet and slowly and very deliberately looks up my legs, over my hips, across my breasts, lingering on my little bit of cleavage and eventually settling on my face.

Chapter 5

Xavier huffs a condescending laugh in his father’s direction but does not take his eyes off me. I refuse to bow to this neanderthal and look away first. I am many a thing, but a doormat is not one of them. While still holding my gaze, he slides the chair in front of him out and sits down nonchalantly. After a few more seconds of our stare-down, he looks over at his father, leans over, picks up his tumbler of whiskey, and sips on it as if he doesn’t have a care in the world.