Always In

My name is Raphael Cruz. I was once a man made up of only flesh and bone. Never feeling, just existing. I indulged in the pleasures that others gave to me, and those I gave to them. That's all it was-pleasure. Physical pleasure. No emotions, no attachments. I didn't need all those feelings, didn't want them. There was no longing for love, no longing to let anyone in. Until I found her. And I gave in. Harlow Hannum showed me what love was all about. I savored it and held it close, not even knowing I really wanted it in my life. She made me feel loved. She made me accept love. She taught me how to love in return. My heart was open to it all. My heart was hers. It belonged to her. But, she never knew. And then lies, deceit and betrayal forced me to lose the one thing that made me more than a man who just existed. I should have told her I loved her when I had the chance. I should have told her I gave in to all the powers that love possesses. Will I ever have the chance to tell her? Will my past mistakes never give me that chance? I need her to know. I want her to know... I'm in... Always. M.R. Joseph is a bestselling author of contemporary romance, new adult, and rom-com novels. A self-proclaimed book nerd turned writer, she crafts heartfelt, funny, and romantic stories that readers can't get enough of. Hailing from the City of Brotherly Love, she draws inspiration from the world around her, including music and moments shared with her husband, kids, family, friends, and her dog, Scarlet. When she's not writing, you'll find her reading, unwinding in her magical backyard or soaking up the sun on an East Coast beach, surrounded by family and music. A lover of books, laughter, and life's little joys, she pours all of that magic into every story she writes.