
She’s my little sister’s best friend. My kids’ favorite babysitter. And the one woman I’ve spent years convincing myself I can’t want. Running for mayor of my small town wasn’t in the plan, but between my daughter’s PE teacher nominating me and the town rallying behind it, here I am. Add an evil ex-wife suing for custody and the last thing I need is another distraction. That’s exactly what Shae Levinson is—a distraction. Shae’s always been magnetic, her wild red curls and sharp wit impossible to ignore. But since she returned from college eight years ago, something in her changed—a quiet sadness she keeps hidden from the world, but I see it. I’ve tried to keep her in the “off-limits” category where she belongs, but lately, that’s been impossible. It used to just be the occasional family dinner but now she’s everywhere—helping with the kids, volunteering for my campaign, staying late to strategize. Each moment with her chips away at my resolve. She’s too close to my family, too much to lose if things don’t work out. But the pull is undeniable. For eight years, I’ve done the right thing and kept my distance. Always being the good guy is exhausting. I’m tired and those walls are crumbling fast. Giving in could cost me everything. But then again, what if it’s worth it? Off-limits is a steamy age gap, forbidden romance between a reserved tech genius running for mayor of his small town and his little sister’s best friend. If you love slow-burn tension, unspoken desires, and heartfelt emotions, this story will pull you in. A part of a series but also, a standalone romance filled with all the feels, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.