Maybe probably, p.1
Maybe, Probably, page 1
Maybe, Probably
Synopsis
Gina Henley doesn’t keep up with current events. She’s too busy partying with her friends and fending off her mother’s well-intentioned nagging about finding a man and settling down. When a mysterious illness causes her boss to close the office, Gina must work from home and life as she knows it changes forever.
Dr. Eleanor Osborne works at a busy London hospital and knows all too well the virus is causing panic. As if that weren’t bad enough, it’s too unsafe for her elderly neighbor to continue minding Eleanor’s daughter, Sophia. She needs a babysitter pronto, but who can she ask to take the risk?
Cut off from her social network, Gina finds the silence of her own company suffocating—who is she when no one is watching? Eleanor is sure she picked the worst time ever to become a single mother—how can she possibly raise a child in such an unpredictable world? Set against the backdrop of a viral pandemic, Gina and Eleanor are about to discover that loving another person is complicated when you’re desperately searching for yourself.
Praise for Amanda Radley
Humbug
“Humbug is the Christmas cuddle we all want and need this festive season. Once again Amanda Radley has given us characters we can love, a gentle romance and a setting we never knew we needed.”—Kitty Kat’s Book Review Blog
“This is a classic Christmas rom-com, with holiday cheer and a predictable storyline. I would vote for Humbug as my favorite Christmas novel of 2021.”—The Lesbrary
Under Her Influence
“Light, sweet, and remarkably chaste, this sapphic love story will make as enjoyable a vacation pick as it is an armchair getaway.”—Publishers Weekly
“My heart is just…filled with love and warmth! Finally, I have found an author who does not rely on sex to make a book interesting!! I’m probably going to go on an Amanda Radley read-a-thon.”—Periwinkle Pens
“Under Her Influence by Amanda Radley is a sweet love story and leaves the reader feeling happy and contented. And that’s exactly what I want from a romance these days. Ms Radley keeps angst to a minimum and lets her readers enjoy the blossoming of love between her characters.”—Kitty Kat’s Book Review Blog
Detour to Love
“If you’re on the lookout for well-written sapphic romance with stellar characters, wonderful pairings, and outstanding plots, I wholeheartedly recommend any of Amanda’s books!!”—EloiseReads
Flight SQA016
“I’m so glad I picked this book up because I think I’ve found my new favourite series!…The love brewing between these two is beautifully written and I was onboard from the beginning. I had some laugh out loud moments because this is British rom-com at its best. The secondary characters really added to the novel and the rollercoaster ride that is this book. The writing is tight and pace is perfect.”—Les Rêveur
Lost at Sea
“A.E. Radley knows how to write great characters. And it’s not just the main characters she puts so much effort into. I loved them, but I was astounded at how well drawn the minor characters were…The writing was beautiful—descriptive, real and very funny at times.”—Lesbian Review
“Absolutely amazing, easy to read, perfect romance with mystery and drama story. There were so many wonderful elements that gave twists and turns to this adventure on the sea. I absolutely loved this story and can’t rave about it enough.”—LesbiReviewed
Going Up
“I can always count on this superb author when it comes to creating unforgettable and endearing characters that I can totally relate to and fall in love with. A.E. Radley has given me beautiful descriptions of Parbrook and the quirky individuals who work at Addington’s.”—Lesbian Review
“It was an A.E. Radley story, so naturally, I loved it! Selina is A.E. Radley’s iciest Ice Queen yet! She was so cold and closed off, but as the story progresses and we get a good understanding of her, you realise that just as with any other Ice Queen—she can be thawed. I loved how they interacted, with a wit and banter that only A.E. Radley can really deliver for characters like these.”—LesbiReviewed
“This story is a refreshing light in the lesfic world. Or should I say in the romance lesfic world? Why do you ask me? Well, while there is a lot of crushy feeling between wlw characters and all, but, honestly that’s the sub-plot and I’ve adored that fact. Going Up is a lesson in life.”-—Kam’s Queerfic Pantry
“The author takes an improbable twosome and writes such a splendid romance that you actually think it is possible…this is a great romance and a lovely read.”—Best Lesfic Reviews
Mergers and Acquisitions
“This book is fun, witty, and adorable. I had no idea which way this book was going to take me, and I loved it. Each character is interesting and loveable in their own right. You don’t want to miss this one—heck, if you have read any of A.E. Radley’s books you know it’s quality stuff.”—Romantic Reader Blog
“Radley writes with a deceptively simple style, meaning the narrative flows naturally and quickly, yet takes readers effortlessly over rocky terrain. The pacing is unrushed and unforced, yet always leaves readers wanting to rush ahead to see what happens next.”—Lesbian Review
The Startling Inaccuracy of the First Impression
“We absolutely loved the way the relationship between the two ladies developed. There is nothing hurried about the relationship that develops perfectly organically. This is a lovely, easy to read romance.”—Best Lesfic Reviews
Huntress
“The writing style was fun and enjoyable. The story really gathered steam to the point of me shirking responsibilities to finish it. The humor in the story was very well done.”—Lesbian Review
“A.E. Radley always writes fantastic books. Huntress is a little different than most of her books, but just as wonderful. The humor was fantastic, the story was absolutely adorable, and the writing was superb. This is truly one of those books where the characters really stick with you long after the book has ended. I wish I’d read it sooner. 5 Stars.”—Les Rêveur
Bring Holly Home
“Bring Holly Home is a fantastic novel and probably one of my favourite books by A.E. Radley…Such a brilliant story and one I know I will read time and time again. This book has two ingredients that I love in novels, Ice Queens melting and age-gap romance. It’s definitely a slow burn but one I’d gladly enjoy rereading again.”—Les Rêveur
Keep Holly Close
“It was great to go back into the world of the Remember Me series. The first book in the series, Bring Holly Home, is one of my favourite A.E. Radley books. I love Holly and Victoria; they tick all the boxes for me when it comes to my favourite tropes. Plus, Victoria’s kids are adorable, especially little Alexia. She melts my heart.”—Les Rêveur
“So much drama…loved it!!! I already loved Holly and Victoria from the first book in the series, Bring Holly Home, so it was brilliant to be back with them. Victoria hasn’t changed and I adore her as much as before. She was utterly brilliant at every moment of this follow-up story and she even managed to surprise me from time to time. The Remember Me series is so beautiful and one of my all time favourites. 5 of 5 stars.”—LesbiReviewed
Climbing the Ladder
“Radley has a talent for giving us memorable characters to love, women you wish you knew, and locations you wish you could experience firsthand.”—Late Night Lesbian Reads
Second Chances
“This is an absolute delight to read. Likeable characters, well-written, easy flow and sweet romance. Definitely recommended.”—Best Lesfic Reviews
“I always know when I get a new A.E. Radley book I’m in for a treat. They make me feel so good after reading them that most of the time I’m just plain sad that they have finished…The chemistry between Alice and Hannah is lovely and sweet…All in all, Second Chances has landed on my favourites shelf. Honestly, this book is worth every second of your time. 5 Stars.”—Les Rêveur
The Road Ahead
“I really enjoyed this age-gap, opposites attract road trip romance. This is a romance where the characters actually acknowledge their differences and joy of joy, listen to each other. I love it when a book makes me feel all the feels and root for both women to find their HEA. Hilarious one minute, heart-tugging the next. A pleasure to read.”—Late Night Lesbian Reads
Fitting In
“Writing convincing love stories with non-typical characters is tricky. Radley more than measures up to the challenge with this truly heartwarming romance.”—Best Lesfic Reviews
Maybe, Probably
Brought to you by
eBooks from Bold Strokes Books, Inc.
http://www.boldstrokesbooks.com
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By the Author
Romances
Mergers & Acquisitions
Climbing the Ladder
A Swedish Christmas Fairy Tale
Second Chances
Going Up
Lost at Sea
The Startling Inaccuracy of the First Impression
Fitting In
Detour to Love
Under Her Influence
Protecting the Lady
Humbug
Reading Her
Reclaiming Love
Maybe, Probably
The Flight Series
Flight SQA016
Grounded
Journey’s End
The Remember Me Series
Bring Holly Home
Keep Holly Close
The Around the World Series
The Road Ahead
The Big Uneasy
Mystery Novels
Huntress
Death Before Dessert
Maybe, Probably
© 2023 By Amanda Radley. All Rights Reserved.
ISBN 13: 978-1-63679-285-9
This Electronic Original Is Published By
Bold Strokes Books, Inc.
P.O. Box 249
Valley Falls, NY 12185
First Edition: February 2023
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.
This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.
Credits
Editor: Ruth Sternglantz
Production Design: Stacia Seaman
Cover Design by Amanda Radley
eBook Design by Toni Whitaker
For the readers.
Chapter One
Gina Henley paused outside the coffee shop. While she knew that she was late for work, she was also aware of the hangover that niggled at the front of her brain.
It wasn’t as bad as it could have been. Gina had long ago decided to keep her heavier partying to non-work nights. But that didn’t mean that the occasional weeknight didn’t end up lasting a little longer than she had originally planned.
She glanced at her watch. She was already late. Did another five minutes really matter? And her work would obviously be far better if she’d had her morning shot of caffeine to chase away the headache and tiredness that lurked, ready to become full-blown at the first email.
She entered the coffee shop and stood in the short queue. She pulled her phone out of her coat pocket and started to look at the screen full of notifications she had ignored that morning. Her banking app helpfully told her how much she had spent at various pubs and bars around London the night before. She’d been tagged in countless social media posts, no doubt containing photographic evidence of everything that had transpired.
Gina, unlike some of her friends, didn’t need reminding. She never allowed herself to drink until she couldn’t function or remember. It also helped that she had a very high tolerance to alcohol.
She paused in scrolling through her notifications at the missed call from her mum. Now that she was stopping for a coffee, she had a little time to check in with her. She made sure her phone was connected to the wireless headphones she wore constantly when out—whether she was actively listening to music or not—and called her mum.
It only took a couple of rings before her mum answered. “Hello, Gina love.”
“Hi, Mum. How are you?”
“I’m good. Were you out last night?”
The question held the tiniest hint of judgement. Mary Henley always said her daughter was twenty-nine going on nineteen. It was no secret that Gina enjoyed her social life. She hated being cooped up in her apartment and loved to meet new people. But her mum made it quite clear that she thought it was time that Gina stopped heading out into London every night and instead found someone to settle down with, a thought that made Gina shiver.
“I was,” Gina said, not wishing to elaborate and give her mum any ammunition. They’d been at this crossroads a few times, and it occasionally led to an argument. And Gina was too hung-over and in need of coffee to have a repeat performance of their last disagreement.
“I was just calling to remind you about Dad’s birthday,” her mum said, decision apparently made to keep things light that morning.
“That’s in May,” Gina said.
“Yes, I know.”
“It’s the start of March.” Gina shuffled forward in the queue. She smiled at the barista. “Hold on, Mum. Hey, can I have a cappuccino? Large as they come, thanks!”
“I just want to make sure you’re not jetting off to anywhere. Like, oh, I don’t know, Peru.”
Gina rolled her eyes. “I keep telling you—that was for work.” She paid for her drink and stood at the end of the counter.
Her mum made a sound of disbelief. “What kind of work sends you to Peru for a month?”
“Work who want me to be able to draw local architecture and plants.” Gina rolled her eyes again but immediately regretted the move when her head started to throb.
“Backpacking, at your age.”
Gina shook her head and took a slow breath in and then out. There was no point in trying to explain anything to her parents. They were absolutely convinced that Gina’s career was a temporary gig until she managed to get a real job.
They couldn’t understand how being a graphic designer for a video game company was very much a real and highly sought-after job, one that frequently sent designers all around the world to ensure their product was the best it could be. These days, more money was spent on game animation than on most Hollywood blockbusters. And while Gina had tried, on numerous occasions, to explain that, her parents were still absolutely certain that she drew cartoons for a living.
“So, what do you have planned for the old man?” Gina changed the subject back to the apparent reason for the call.
“You know, us and your brother and Claire. Aunt Alison and Uncle John. Probably Julie and Barry, if they’re back from France then. All the family, of course.”
Gina felt bored already. Her mum’s idea of a party differed greatly from her own. She watched the barista racing to make the fast flow of morning orders. It looked like a gruelling task, but she’d gladly hand her phone to him and attempt to make a triple-shot latte with soy milk and caramel drizzle rather than discuss party arrangements with her mother.
Her stomach rumbled at the thought of caramel drizzle. She’d not had time for breakfast that morning, choosing to snooze the alarm a luxurious four times instead. It had felt like the right decision, the only decision, at the time. Now her stomach was regretting it. Thankfully, she knew the kitchen at work would be full of tasty baked treats and fresh fruit. Since starting at The Engine she’d never paid for breakfast or lunch.
Si Carver had hired her on the spot when she turned up for the weirdest interview of her life five years earlier. He’d worn a simple white T-shirt, plain grey hoodie, and black jeans as a tech genius was legally obligated to. While lounging on a beanbag, he’d told Gina of his vision to create the most visually stunning games in the world. His mission was for people to feel like they were in the game, and art was the basis of that. He knew that it would only be a short amount of time before virtual reality took the place of games consoles, and he wanted to be ready with the most breathtakingly accurate art available.
After forty minutes of explaining how he imagined The Engine would change the world of gaming, he’d handed her his iPad Pro and asked her to draw a London Underground station scene for a prototype zombie apocalypse game.
“Dark, ya know?” he’d said. “Gritty. Scary. But familiar. Right? You get it. Come find me when you’re done. Nothing fancy. Twenty minutes. See what you can do.”
Gina relocated to a table in the break room and drew the scene that immediately came to her mind. Lights from a stalled train illuminating the dark station, an eerie shadow cast against a corridor. It wasn’t her best work, but she’d been given a very short amount of time.
He’d hired her on the spot, and she’d been promoted four times since then as The Engine grew from strength to strength. But her parents still told people that she drew for a living in a way that suggested they were hoping she’d get a real job soon.
“I take it that it will just be you?” her mum asked, emphasising the just in the way only a worried mother could.
