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

“Hey, I’ve been behind you, waving and honking, since we left the condo complex. Are you even awake?” Jade moved closer like she expected a hug.


“Sorry.” Akira burst into tears. Like some super magnet or black hole, Jade sucked her into an embrace.


“It’s okay, cry all you want. Good thing you’re a girl. If you were a guy, I’d have to say boys don’t cry.” Even her silly giggle crept into Akira’s angry mood, lightening it. It only took a few minutes for Akira to settle. Jade wiped Akira’s tears. “May I kiss you in pub? You into PDA?”


Akira’s sense of humor crept in. “Personal Data Assistant? It’s an old term.”


“Public Displays of Affection, silly.”


Akira nodded. Jade soothed her with gentle kisses to her nose, cheeks, ears, and finally lips.


“I wish I was strong so I could lift you in my arms and whisk you away to some far-away place where you’d feel safe and happy.”


Weakly, Akira moaned, “Thanks. I needed an antidote.”


Chapter 21