He was supposed to be my savior, but became my keeper instead… I’ve spent years learning everything I can to take over my family’s restaurant. I’ve never envisioned myself doing anything else. It all comes to a crashing halt when rumors of an arranged marriage circle the Famiglia and my brother doesn’t stop my name from being put forth as an eligible bride. Determined to not have my dreams taken away, I do the only thing I have control over: get rid of my virginity. It’s supposed to be a simple one-night stand with a stranger until I figure out the man I’d bedded is our biggest rival.

I'm willing to admit that I shouldn't read spicy scenes in public. But in my defense, the opportunity rarely rises elsewhere. As a single mom and farm owner, my time is stretched thinner than horse hair. Besides, I'd reached a pivotal peak in the story and couldn't put it down. That is, until someone bumps into me. My phone launches into the air like a base hit, but the device is caught before smashing into the ground. It comes as no surprise, considering the guy is a professional baseball star.

After my divorce, I decided to move across the country, away from family and friends, for a new start. What I don't expect is him. He's only supposed to be a one-night stand, but fate has other plans. The next time I see him, it's because I'm on a date with his dad. I've always believed in wishing on elevens, but this time, I get a little more than I bargained for by falling for a guy eleven years younger than me. Reid is everything I shouldn't want and everything I need. The question is, am I willing to open my heart up to him? Or am I doomed to let my past hold me back?

Exposed Ink is my sanctuary, where I can hide behind the needles and ink, shielding my shattered heart from further pain and loss. Until Shane, a firefighter and single dad, threatens to unravel the carefully constructed walls I’ve built to survive. First, he saves my life—literally—and then he turns it upside down by making me long for things I can’t have. He says he wants to get some ink done, but I know he wants something more… something I can’t give him—me.

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t love Rhett Walker, which is complicated since he’s ten years older and my brother’s best friend. After a falling out, we didn’t speak for years—until today, when he found me sleeping in my car, threw me over his shoulder, and dragged me “to safety.”