"You think I don't want you? Every time I look at you, I..." His fingers dig into my skin. "But your father—"

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"Has nothing to do with us!"

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Fresh out of college and brimming with ambition, Bella never expected her summer job at her father's construction company to reignite her teenage crush on Levy Mitchell. He's her father's ruggedly handsome best friend, business partner, and absolutely off-limits - especially now that she'll be working directly under him.

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As Bella and Levy struggle to maintain professional boundaries, their undeniable chemistry threatens to demolish years of friendship and trust. Late nights at the office lead to stolen glances and lingering touches, while their shared passion for the business draws them closer together in ways neither anticipated.

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But when their forbidden attraction finally ignites, Bella must choose between her father's trust and the only man who's ever made her feel truly alive. In a small town where secrets don't stay buried for long, their love could cost them everything - unless they're willing to risk it all to build something even stronger than desire.

"She molds to me like we've always been destined for this. Her gasps are perfectly tuned to my intention. I want this young woman to feel as alive as possible for as long as possible as we continue to become one."

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Love isn't supposed to be this complicated. Fresh out of college, Chloe Brailey returns to Cedar Trails seeking the simple life - a steady job, time to work on her true crime podcast, and the comfort of old friendships. But when she runs into her best friend's father at the local coffee shop, she discovers bestselling thriller author Pedro Tolle is nothing like the distant workaholic she remembers.

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Their shared passion for true crime draws them together as Chloe helps Pedro research his latest novel. Late nights poring over cold case files spark an undeniable chemistry, but Pedro's reputation as the town's most notorious playboy and the risk of destroying her closest friendship make him completely off-limits. Or at least, he should be.

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As their forbidden attraction intensifies, a jealous admirer's obsession threatens everything Chloe holds dear. Now she must decide if real love is worth risking it all - before someone else makes that choice for her.