My thoughts about One Tequila by Tricia O'Malley

I had to laugh. Though the rich in this town liked to flaunt it with country club passes and fancy houses, in all reality they were stingy to the core.

Tequila Key is a small town with big city aspirations.

Water, unlike anything else in this world, called to me, soothed me, was my solace and my joy. I needed to be near water as much as I needed my next breath.

My mother would point out the glaring absence of a man, but I liked to think of this time as my independent period.

No matter the vision, one shouldn't interfere with Fate. Because Fate always finds a way.

“I want to prepare stuff for our thing in the morning,” Luna said quietly and shot a quick smile at Cash. “Nice to meet you.” She waved to Beau on her way out and was gone faster than I could say don't leave me with this hot man who I have no idea what to do with.

“You? Mr. Investor. Want to have dinner with the local psychic?” I asked again, wanting to make sure we were on the same page.

“Stop it this instant, Althea. Where is the badass woman that I've known my whole life? Who fights for her friends, says what's on her mind, and fills out a dress with every inch of her jaw-dropping curves? Hmm? Stop acting like a wilting flower and embrace it, girlfriend,” Beau ordered.

The absolute best way to start my day was 115 feet deep in water, taking pictures of turtles or whatever else crossed my path.

“I have no problem with him. My problem is with you going on a date with him and not me,” he said before putting a regulator in his mouth and striding into the water.

There was nothing like looking straight into the depths of the ocean to put some perspective on your smallness in this universe, I thought.

Do not try to change someone's fate. Their choices have led them there.

After filling the vase with flowers, I paused to admire my work, trying not to mentally squeal over Cash having brought me flowers. I'd swoon later, in private, like the dignified woman that I am.

I blushed but couldn't help smiling. Damn, if this man had this much game, I was toast.

one must have a healthy respect for the ocean, as she threatens as much as she soothes.

I stroked his fur, taking comfort in his presence, and wondered why anyone would not want to own an animal. They just made life better.

I surprised even myself when I leaned in, running my hands up his arms and through his hair, pulling his face to mine in an epic I'm drunk and shouldn't be doing this but it feels so good kiss.

It took everything in my power not to knee him between the legs when he walked past me to grab my arm, but I knew it would only worsen our predicament.

Just a tip here, I'm probably not the best person to get stuck in a crisis with.

“When I said find the killer, you didn't have to go and be all dramatic about it,” she said, poking me in the shoulder. “You know me – total drama queen,” I said.