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, you’ve been through hell and back. It’s okay if you don’t want to make love. I know it would help you feel better, but we’ll do it when you’re ready.” Jade clamped her arms around Akira and kissed her cheek and neck.


When Rosey came home from work on the second shift at one-thirty A.M., the girls were up, watching TV. Rosey squeezed between them on the couch and gave a side hug to each of them.


“How are my girls? And don’t lie to me.”


Jade said, “I’m fine, Mom. Akira couldn’t sleep.”


Rosey turned to Akira. “So, what’s up?”


“The usual. It’s been weeks, and I still feel like shit.”


Rosey got up and started the pot of milk to make chocolate with mint. “Okay, why do you feel like shit?”


“I almost got raped, maybe killed.”


“Is that all?” Rosey laughed then turned serious. “Okay, that’s a good reason. But you’re a black belt and defended yourself. Your instructor said he was proud of you.”


Chapter 38