Two hearts locked away for years, but only one held the key to let love in. Magdalena Bishop holds her heart close and her loved ones closer. For nearly a decade, structure is the only driving force in her world. Until her best friend puts a twist on girl’s night. After wrapping up his latest project, Geoffrey Lawson wants to celebrate. A few drinks with the guys and a beautiful distraction between the sheets. Because that’s all women are – a distraction. Nothing more. A magnetic attraction. An undeniable passion. A love struggling to survive.

One night. No names. No romance. Just fun. Alessandra Everett has no time for love. No time for romantic relationships. Owning the town’s most beloved coffee shop is her greatest accomplishment. A dream brought to life where she dedicates most of her waking hours. Aside from girls’ night and the occasional day off with her besties, Alessandra is a bona fide workaholic. Then she meets him. The handsome magazine journalist from out of town. The man with flirty amber eyes and an addictive smile. All it takes is one kiss, one steamy night, and he lives rent free in her memories. Braydon Harris spends most of his days on the road or writing stories for his family’s travel magazine. Devastated by a relationship gone sour, he elects to live the bachelor life. In his eyes, attachment equals serious. And serious equals heartache. For years, his mantra stuck. Until her… When Braydon returns to Lake Lavender, his one night with her turns into two… and beyond. And with each passing night, they break their own rules. Give into what they feel. Until the last night, when rejection strikes hard. She has sworn off commitment. He vows to never love again. But the more they fight it, the more life brings them together.

Her love brought me to life. It also broke my heart. Far back as I can recall, not a day exists when I haven’t loved Helena Williams. In my younger years, my love for her was more familial or akin to friendship. But as the years passed, something changed between us. The unrequited love I had for my sister’s best friend was reciprocated. Like the seasons, our love fluctuated. Like the moon, some nights were dark and cold while others were bright and warm. I loved her. I love her. Nine years ago, I broke in two. She said goodbye, and I tried to let her go. She moved on and I did unthinkable things. With her gone, I fell apart. I let the darkness take over. Let myself drown. The dark was familiar. Comforting. Guaranteed. Constant. But now, I am ready to breathe again.