Sara Wilkinson

Then again, she refused his repeated offers of reconciliation after she graduated college. She brushed away those olive branches as if nothing more than a nuisance while hiking in a dense forest. When he played the ultimate trump card, a stage four pancreatic cancer diagnosis, she stuffed down the hurt of being left behind and agreed to a meeting, discovering, in the process, she had a half-brother, a half-sister-in-law, and twin niece and nephew. Her family nearly quadrupled with one answered phone call.

'Hurt' from 'Love on the Vine'
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Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love EXCERPT: “I’m not ready for this to end.” Nat searched his eyes with eyes full of understanding. Too much understanding. As if she too knew this, whatever this was, had to end. Every time he held her, he wanted more from her. Something Nat couldn’t, wouldn’t give. Not yet. Maybe someday. An improbable idea, not an impossible one. Where’s there’s life, there’s hope. But that hope dwindled with each passing semester, each passing season. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could or should wait. With his all-encompassing residency starting in a few weeks and Nat playing in the Olympics later this year on top of her already grinding schedule, such hope died a slow death.

When Matt rescues Nat from being trapped at a frat party, they reluctantly form a near decade long friendship that threatens to turn romantic if Nat wasn’t determined to play pro soccer in Chicago and Matt wasn’t determined to practice pediatrics in their Michigan hometown.

#cupit #A #NA #CR #FBW

Love on the Vine Agents Guide

Pitch: *85,000 Word Contemporary Romance *Tropes: *Different Worlds *Strangers-to-Lovers *Found Family Becca Hopewell has trouble letting people in. She blames the death of her mom during childbirth and her father’s subsequent abandonment of her to a cold aunt. When she’s left part owner of a winery with her newfound half-brother she must decide if she’s willing to risk being rejected again. Not only by Sammy, but by Ian Baker, the demi-god portraying, disillusioned actor she rescues from rabid fans while manning the winery’s Christmas market booth. Despite his manager’s plan for his flailing career that doesn’t include a mystery woman selling wine she knows nothing about, Ian can’t seem to forget his kind rescuer and the lovely bracelet she designed.

Comps: *Romantic Comedy *Under Your Spell *Waiting for Tom Hanks *A Winter Wish *We All Live Here *Notting Hill

Except: “You’re right, better make it three. You’re too good a saleswoman even without the cheat sheet. Which begs the question how someone who professes not to know wine work for a winery?” “That’s a long, complicated story. Too long for a few sips of wine. Or coffee. Hell, I’m not even sure a three-course meal would suffice.” Becca froze. Eyes wide as her hands hovered over bottles. “That wasn’t me begging for an invitation or anything. Not that you thought such a silly thing. Or would ever think…” Becca snapped her lips shut, avoiding his twinkling eyes by assessing the progress of the three women. Now closer than she liked with more make-up and hands that flattened flyaway strands. Their hungry looks were reminiscent of the wolf at grandma’s house. “And if I did?” “What?” The man followed Becca’s frantic glance. His head snapped forward. His body straightened and angled toward Becca and away from the women’s eager glances. The openness, the calmness disappeared like wine at an awkward Christmas party.

Notting Hill x Waiting for Tom Hanks

When Becca inherits a winery with her newfound half-brother, Sammy, and rescues Ian, a celebrity hiding from an oversized role, she must decide if she’s willing to risk being rejected yet again or open her heart to the possibility of love.

#cupit #A #CR #FBW

Happy V-day to you as well! Good luck today. I saw your pitch and you had me at moving to the North Pole Village 🤩

Thanks so much 🥰

This sounds amazing. I hope you garner some interest from agents 🤩

Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love Agents Guide

Details: *87,000 Word Dual POV Contemporary Romance * When Nat is waylaid by some idiots at a frat party, Matt comes to the rescue and chivalrously escorts her home despite Nat’s insistence she’s fine. They meet again in a shared class, and a friendship develops that neither sought nor particularly desired. Both are on paths shaped by childhood experiences and are loathe to change course even when their friendship deepens and threatens to turn romantic. Nat has dreams of being a professional soccer player in the hopes it will make her dad proud and entice him back into her life. Matt wants to honor his childhood best friend’s death by practicing as a pediatrician in their hometown. As they advance down their respective, solitary roads, they must decide if success is enough to make them complete if it means being without the other.

Tropes: * Friends-to-lovers-to friends-to lovers * Sworn off love * Slow Burn Comps: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell Every Summer After by Carley Fortune When Harry Met Sally Inspired by: Kids in Love by Pink, featuring First Aid Kit

EXCERPT: “I’m not ready for this to end.” Nat searched his eyes with eyes full of understanding. Too much understanding. As if she too knew this, whatever this was, had to end. Every time he held her, he wanted more from her. Something Nat couldn’t, wouldn’t give. Not yet. Maybe someday. An improbable idea, not an impossible one. Where’s there’s life, there’s hope. But that hope dwindled with each passing semester, each passing season. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could or should wait. With his all-encompassing residency starting in a few weeks and Nat playing in the Olympics later this year on top of her already grinding schedule, such hope died a slow death.

People We Meet on Vacation x When Harry Met Sally

A chance encounter at a frat party starts a decade long friendship between Nat, a pro soccer hopeful, and Matt, a future doc, that could turn into love if one of them is willing to sacrifice their lifelong dream for the other.
#Cupit #A #CR #FBW

“No.” Becca was too quick with an answer given the spark in the woman’s eye and tilt of her body closer to the counter. “He gets that all the time. Up close you would never mistake him for that actor.” “Ouch,” a soft, but distinctly husky male voice said. Becca laughed to cover his slip while waving a finger behind her back as a warning for him to shut up. “Oliver is a regular customer and sweetheart, but he’s getting a big head with all the confusion.” She swore she heard another chuckle, as enticing as his smile, but she quickly covered it by asking again if they wanted samples.

I might have posted this snip before but I shockingly don't have as many 'sweetheart's as I thought.
- From 'Love on the Vine'. Becca is hiding Ian from eager fans.
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“What did he mean?” Ashley asked halfway down the concourse. Of course she picked up on the vibe. The girl was smart, a mini-Nat according to Matt. Oh, wouldn’t Leslie just love such a moniker. “Are you and Dr. Matt in love?” “Oh, Ashley.” Nat wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “It’s far more complicated than that. And not something you or your sister need worry about.”

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'Vibe' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'

The force, the speed should’ve been a warning, but Matt ignored his inner, blaring tornado siren. He wanted back in her good graces and that meant playing the role of a proper goalkeeper. Stretching his arms wide, he thought he had it, but he misjudged the arc, the spin. Direct hit to the face. Pain radiated from the center out. Iron flavored liquid ran down his lips. Matt’s hands flew to his nose as he fell to his knees.

'Liquid' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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For half a second, Matt considered lying. The reason behind the signal was one of the things Nat refused to discuss in interviews, along with her dad. She merely said it was for a friend before moving on. Like Noah’s role in Matt’s life, Matt assumed only a few select people knew the truth—Nat’s mom and her closest teammates, possibly Chelsea and his family. But he could trust Ashley.

'Select' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“Uh-oh,” Devin stopped midsentence. Reaching over the table, he slapped Matt’s arm and nodded toward the door where a medium-height blond stood looking around. “She must have a sixth sense or something.” Matt’s head fell to his chest as his torso subtly shifted until his back faced the door. “I wouldn’t be surprised.” Priya looked between the group and the door. “Why do I feel like the temperature dropped twenty degrees?” “Matt’s ex at three o’clock. Brace for impact, we have incoming.” Devin slouched on his stool and wrapped his arms over his head as if a tornado approached rather than a pleasant looking woman.

Matt avoiding his college ex.
'Sixth' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“Friends, Lakeside-ians, visitors, lend me your ears.” The room, and Nat, groaned except for one deep-throated laugh near the stairs. A laugh Nat would recognize anywhere. She caught Matt’s eyes as they found hers, as they always found hers whether in a large stadium or a deserted college campus. Those sparkling gems held as Georgie announced the first half of the celebrated couple. Unlike his older brother, Matt casually walked on stage, the dimmed lights highlighting the raised color of his cheeks as he puffed out the held breath before good naturedly grimacing at Nat. Clearly, he’d rather be anywhere other than in front of this crowd, but the things we do for love.

'Except' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“Okay, ladies, good half. Far from perfect, but good. Morris, nice goals.” She paused for cheers, then dampened her praise. “But the second was lucky. You should’ve passed to Gonzalez. She was in a better position.” Nat caught Maria’s eye. “Sorry,” she mouthed. Maria waved the apology away and mouthed, “I wasn’t ready.” Even so, Nat apologized again as they exited the locker room for the second half. She knew too well what it was like when a teammate kept the ball for their own brilliance rather than allow a player in a better position to shine. It happened to Nat in high school, but, thankfully, the girl graduated, and Nat shone during her remaining seasons, earning her a scholarship to MSU.

Many instances of 'position' since Nat is a soccer player.
-From 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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Ashley remained silent with her arms crossed around her bent right knee, too peeved for words. As he reached the nurse’s station to order an X-ray, the laugh Matt held back finally escaped. He almost sent Nat a text, patient confidentiality and another patient stopped his hand. Thirty minutes later, he reentered the curtained room, X-ray in hand. When Ashley caught sight of it, her cheeks drained of color as her eyes widened and her body stiffened. “My sister wants to ask you out, but she’s scared,” Ashley said as a deflection.

My only 'confident' in 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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The anger dried the hint of tears. Any residual drive to confront the men, boys, idiots really, died when her so called rescuer brushed past with the same freshly laundered cotton and peppermint she whiffed when she grabbed his hand. A smell that redirected her anger. Who did he think he was? She had the situation under control.

'Died' for 'perish' - 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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Thanks 🤞

Stubborn dreams and bottle love EXCERPT: “I’m not ready for this to end.” Nat searched his eyes with eyes full of understanding. Too much understanding. As if she too knew this, whatever this was, had to end. Every time he held her, he wanted more from her. Something Nat couldn’t, wouldn’t give. Not yet. Maybe someday. An improbable idea, not an impossible one. Where’s there’s life, there’s hope. But that hope dwindled with each passing semester, each passing season. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could or should wait. With his all-encompassing residency starting in a few weeks and Nat playing in the Olympics later this year on top of her already grinding schedule, such hope died a slow death.

Nat dreams of playing pro soccer for her dad’s love, Matt dreams of practicing pediatrics in his hometown in honor of his late childhood best friend, when Matt rescues Nat from being trapped at a party, a deep attraction forms that will force one or both to stray from their path.
#questpit #Q #A #R

Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love Agents Guide

Details: *87,000 Word Dual POV Contemporary Romance * When Nat is waylaid by some idiots at a frat party, Matt comes to the rescue and chivalrously escorts her home despite Nat’s insistence she’s fine. They meet again in a shared class, and a friendship develops that neither sought nor particularly desired. Both are on paths shaped by childhood experiences and are loathe to change course even when their friendship deepens and threatens to turn romantic. Nat has dreams of being a professional soccer player in the hopes it will make her dad proud and entice him back into her life. Matt wants to honor his childhood best friend’s death by practicing as a pediatrician in their hometown. As they advance down their respective, solitary roads, they must decide if success is enough to make them complete if it means being without the other.

Tropes: * Friends-to-lovers-to-friends-to lovers * Slow Burn * Sworn Off Love Comps: People We Meet on Vacation When Harry Met Sally Slow Dance Every Summer After Inspired by: Kids in Love by Pink featuring First Aid Kit

EXCERPT: “I’m not ready for this to end.” Nat searched his eyes with eyes full of understanding. Too much understanding. As if she too knew this, whatever this was, had to end. Every time he held her, he wanted more from her. Something Nat couldn’t, wouldn’t give. Not yet. Maybe someday. An improbable idea, not an impossible one. Where’s there’s life, there’s hope. But that hope dwindled with each passing semester, each passing season. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could or should wait. With his all-encompassing residency starting in a few weeks and Nat playing in the Olympics later this year on top of her already grinding schedule, such hope died a slow death.

People We Meet on Vacation x When Harry Met Sally

A chance encounter at a frat party starts a near decade long friendship between Nat, a pro soccer hopeful, and Matt, a future doc, that could turn into love if one of them is willing to sacrifice their lifelong dream for the other
#questpit #Q #A #R

Matt’s mom hadn’t stopped talking about Phyllis or Nat since breakfast. Since she learned of his invitation, she asked backhanded questions disguised as info gathering for the party rather than the fishing expeditions they were. But the past eight hours took the cake. More fool her. Matt knew her game all too well from past antics when Georgie brought home gal friends. Hence why he hadn’t brought anyone home before now. Yeah, that was the only reason. Not his nerdiness. Not his dedication to academics.

'Academics' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
Matt is about to introduce Nat to his overbearing family for the first time.
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When they returned to the house, Nat suggested they enjoy the nice evening out on the deck. She offered wine and poured Leslie and Matt healthy glasses in the hopes the alcohol and beautiful weather would continue the fragile truce. Matt held Nat back as the others stepped outside. “I’m sorry about dinner.” “It’s not for you to apologize.” Nat moved away, but stopped when she stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Matt. “Not for that anyway. You have other things to apologize for.”

Continuing the saga of Nat meeting Matt's new girlfriend. 'Suggest'ed - from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“Speaking of drive,” Matt started. “When did Nat leave?” Phyllis checked her watch. “About five hours ago. She should be here soon.” She placed a hand on Matt’s cheek with a small smile. “Don’t worry, I taught Roo well. She can drive through any snowstorm.” “It’s not her abilities I’m worried about.” Glancing at his clutched phone, Matt debated calling, but he hated to distract Nat almost as much as he hated the wrathful look Leslie threw him. “Really, Matthew, I’m sure Natalie will be fine. You can’t live in Michigan and not know how to drive in the snow.”

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Snow'storm' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'

While she had him on the phone, Nat couldn’t help asking, “Did you threaten Matt, Dwayne?” “If he boohooed to you, then he isn’t worthy.” “So, you did threaten him.” “Nope. I merely told him to walk away if he isn’t serious rather than toy with your emotions. If he hurt you again, he’d have to face me.” Nat smiled at the audaciousness and rolled her eyes at the proudness. “That’s big talk coming from a commitment-phobe.” “If anyone could cure me, it’d be you, baby.” Dwayne lowered his voice and added, “But your heart isn’t in it either.” “Touché,” Nat said before ending the call.

'Commit'ment from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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Nat’s eyes prickled, but she swallowed the oncoming storm when she noticed the despair fighting a wan smile on Maria’s face. On Bianca’s. On poor Gracie’s. Together they huddled near their goal as Nat acted as the voice of reason. They played hard. They played amazingly. Look how far they made it. Blah. Blah. Blahhh! Bullshit. All of it. If only she had played better. If only she took more risks. What pro team would want her now? She couldn’t even help her team move past the Sweet Sixteen. Hadn’t made more than a handful of shots on goal. And lost the ball more times than that for fuck’s sake. The strikers on the other team deserved a spot more than her.

'Notice' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'

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'Wither' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
Nat just met the future love of her life but didn't ask his name out of fear.
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“Matthew James Wilson, where the hell do you think you’re going? You can’t teleport so sit the hell down. You’re not the only one who loves her.” Crickets. He swore he heard crickets. She hadn’t used his full name since…shit, before Noah’s death when they did something stupid as usual and nearly broke a bone. Like then, Matt bowed his head and mumbled sorry. When he reentered the living room, he noticed Phyllis’ paleness and settled beside her. His medical training kicked in, and he checked her over while assuring her, and himself, that everything would be okay.

'Bone' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“It’s not fine, Roo. What can I do?” Nat shook her head with a sad smile. “Just vocalizing my fears is helping. I can’t stop worrying I’ll be replaced. Not only on the national team, but here too. Or, worse, traded to a team further away. I’m not sure I can restart in a new city. Or that I want to.” If this didn’t complicate matters by raising his hopes. Could he wait just a bit longer for that family? “It’s a problem for another day. I’m playing close enough to my younger self and think I’m safe. And I can’t stop. Not just yet.” Matt’s spine collapsed as the momentary hope melted away. He needed to stop being gullible like Charlie Brown when Lucy promised to hold the football. He and Matt fell for it every time. But no more. Time to fully commit to Leslie rather than thinking of her as a backup plan even if he wasn’t fully in love with her yet. It would grow with time. Right?

'Traded' for 'transfer' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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“I’m stealing you away and I doubt we’ll have time to come back,” Heidi added. “Take your time, I need a word with Ian. Birthday stuff.” The snarling of his name sent a shiver of fear down his back. It increased when Heidi shoved him into the pantry off the kitchen, slamming the folding doors behind them. She peeked through the slats until satisfied Becca stepped away. “What did Michel do?” She slapped his arm, and again before crossing her arms over her chest. Her foot tapped a tattoo on the tiled floor. A sure sign she hadn’t the patience for his bullshit. “He saw a photo of us having dinner and made it clear Becca is not the woman to further my career. And he’s bringing Sabrina tonight.”

Tried a different use of the word 'tattoo' in 'Love on the Vine'. Hoping it works.
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“Shit, Matt.” Nat slid to his side and grabbed his face between her palms as she looked him over. “I didn’t think you’d—” Matt patted her arm, unable to speak with her hands on his cheeks. The pressure, yes, but also the softness, the coldness despite their activity. She turned his head this way and that as she peered in his eyes and examined his nose. “How does it look?” Matt’s voice nasally as if he had a head cold. “Swollen. How does it feel?” “Swollen but not broken. I think. I haven’t broken anything before so I’m going strictly on painfulness.” Nat’s guffaw was one of the sweetest sounds he’d heard in recent memory. “I’m so, so sorry, Matt.” “It’s my fault for putting my face between the ball and the net.”

'Activity' from 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love'
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That tear nearly undid him. As did her sweetness with her neighbor’s daughter and her kindness and honesty with Ashley. He hadn’t realized the toll trolls took from her every game and almost jumped over the pub’s table and pulled Nat into his arms, damn Leslie and damn Nat’s thick skull. But Nat burned him too many times. Raised his hopes only to dash them with a no. Now he had Leslie. A woman who said yes. Yes, to coming here. Yes, to him. To them. Was he ready to lose this sure thing for a woman that led him by the nose, no, wrong body part, for nearly a decade. Okay, not that long, though it felt like it some days.

Only one instance of 'troll' in 'Stubborn Dreams and Bottled Love' but it comes just after last weeks snips where Matt brings his new GF to meet Nat.
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