Be My Valentine
A “meet-cute” set in Charlotte, North Carolina on Valentine’s Day 2019.
Caitlin Marcie Wilken (Katie) is a 34-year-old kindergarten teacher. She has had her dog, a Cocker Spaniel/Poodle mix named Olaf, for 5 years. In her “spare time,” she loves to read mysteries and attend pilates classes.
George Leonardo Carter (Leo) is a 29-year-old police officer. He has had his dog, a Beagle/Pug mix named Thor, for almost 3 years. When he’s not watching the latest Marvel movie, he is either reading or practicing tai chi.
Music helps set the mood while I write. That is why the inspiration playlists play such a vital role in my writing process. These are the songs that inspired the Valentine’s Day short story Be My Valentine:
Valentine - by Train
I thought of this as “opening credits” to my short story. I discovered this song while working on the playlist and it quickly became one of my favorites.
Anything But Me - by Kellie Pickler
This is one of Katie Wilken’s theme songs. Kellie Pickler is one of her favorite artists.
Most People Are Good - by Luke Bryan
This is one of Leo Carter’s theme songs. Luke Bryan is one of his favorite artists.
Beautiful Eyes - by Taylor Swift
I thought I was burnt out and needed a break from writing and editing. And then I heard this song on my way home from work. The idea for this short story hit me while I was stuck in traffic. So of course it had to make the inspiration playlist.
Sunny Side Up - by Martina McBride
This is Jenna Kelly McBride’s theme song. Jenna is Katie’s neighbor, who encourages her go on the maybe date.
Unbreakable Smile - by Tori Kelly
Sometimes I give theme songs to characters who don’t actually end up in the story. This theme song belongs to Jenna’s husband Ted McBride.
Lego House - by Ed Sheeran
This is Ian Walker’s theme song. Ian is Leo’s neighbor, who wants his dinner reservation.
The Secret of Happiness - by Susan Egan
Remember what I said about theme songs for characters who don’t actually end up in the story? This theme song belongs to Ian’s wife Ilsa Walker.
Makin’ Me Fall in Love Again - by Kellie Pickler
This is Katie’s second theme song. It kind of represents what she’s thinking when she shows up for the maybe date.
Win Life - by Luke Bryan
This is Leo’s second theme song. It kind of represents what he’s thinking when Katie shows up for their maybe date.
I’m Alive - by Kenny Chesney feat. Dave Matthews
This is another theme song for a character who didn’t make it into the final story. This theme song belongs to Katie’s ex - Scott Michaels.
Kinda Crazy - by Whitney Duncan
The last three songs are not theme songs. They are supposed to represent parts of the story. Katie is feeling kinda crazy for going on the date.
I Wanna Make You Close Your Eyes - by Dierks Bentley
This song is supposed to represent the relationship that begins after that first date.
Valentine - by Martina McBride feat. Jim Brickman
This song was included for two reasons. The name is Valentine and the story takes place on Valentine’s Day. Also, it is the song they use for their first dance at their wedding.