Simon and I became friends in college, married in 1981, and graduated with our bachelors (his 2nd) and masters together, from Louisiana Tech University. He is an environmental engineer and a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army.
Simon is a physical fitness "nut". He is a body-builder and has the classic muscular definition of cover models, and, has a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. During his assignment to Ft. Bragg several years ago, he worked as a medical team member with the Green Berets. He passed Air Assault School (repelling from a helicopter on a rope) and Airborne School (parachuting) - not bad for someone in their late 30's at the time.
How Simon inspires me: I think Simon is cut from the same cloth as romance heroes, and I don't mean that in a bragging way. Go to the photo gallery to check out Simon's pictures.
Simon is originally from Lebanon and speaks and writes Arabic, English, and French fluently. He has a very sexy accent, with more of a French sound to it.
As far as the emotional aspect, I use Simon's Alpha maleness and aggressiveness, but tempered with his softer side. I don't think Alpha males have to be jerks. All my heroes must be a "man's man" because that's what I'm attracted to, and I believe in writing storylines and characters that I would enjoy reading about.
My heroes and Simon are totally male, but they do have a sensitive side, which I believe most women appreciate too. The sensitive nature that can feel sad while watching a sad movie, or be caring and nurturing when I'm sick or feel depressed. The one that will notice when I'm really tired and offer to do the dishes.
