Marcus Hardy came home to a mess—a family imploding and a dad who's made some seriously questionable life choices—but walking into his roommate's apartment, he finds an unexpected bright spot in Willow, the beautiful redhead who seems to be crashing there more and more often. What starts as stolen moments and lingering smiles becomes something neither of them can ignore, even though she's technically Cage's girl (or so Cage believes). As Marcus fights his growing feelings for Low and tries to hold his fractured family together, he realizes he's about to face an impossible choice—one that could cost him everything. This is the kind of emotional, character-driven romance that will have you rooting for love while holding your breath for what comes next.

Reading soundtrack

Listen while you read

Spotify

yearningelectricbittersweetconflictedintoxicating

Sultry indie-pop and R&B for stolen glances and electric tension. Think vulnerable vocals over warm production—artists like SZA, The Neighbourhood, and Daniel Caesar. Bittersweet melodies that capture conflicted hearts, late-night conversations, and the ache of wanting what you shouldn't have.

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