Akira Watanabe’s greatest issue isn’t being a lesbian, but rather having a father with the maturity of a teenager. He’s a heavy drinker and hardly works, so she supports them both with a job at a local convenience mart. It’s there she befriends police sergeant Rosey Garatino, who frequents the store and lives in the same complex as the Watanabes. Akira has the hots for a Goth girl named Jade, but unfortunately, Jade likes guys, and she also drinks and smokes. One night when Jade comes into the store, drunk, and tries to steal some beer, Akira stops her. Jade gets sick, and Akira helps her outside. Sparks fly between them, but nothing happens. Later Akira hears rumors that Jade is a lesbian. The heat that smoldered between them now sparks into a fire, especially when Jade promises to quit drinking and smoking. Akira’s surprised to learn Jade is Rosey’s daughter. Growing up can be difficult in the best of situations, but the neighborhood where Akira and Jade live is dangerous, too. As their friendship deepens into love, will they be able to protect each other and find their happy ending?

Saving Akita

Akira forced herself to stay upbeat with customers despite her foul mood. Dad was out of town for two nights with a temporary consulting job. He was great at it when he stayed sober. He cashed his check from the last one and didn’t give her any of it, so that meant he had funds to go to bars. Why the hell was she forced to be the adult? And Mom’s military career was more important than her daughter. Akira vented to her computer, feeling a bit better after.


Rosey pushed through the door. Akira didn’t have to pretend with Rosey; her presence lifted Akira’s mood.


“Hey, there you are. I thought you were working but figured you got yanked to cover another district when you didn’t show up.” Rosey trotted to the counter with a flat face. “Are you okay?” Akira slapped her own mouth. “Sorry, stupid question. It should be outlawed. Obviously, you’re not okay. What’s going on?”


Chapter 16