Ashlie Willis is a disappointment. At least, that’s what she tells herself. Failed career, bad relationships, life—the former teacher can’t seem to get anything right. People pleasing is a tough habit to break, and pretending is easier than facing her fears. The only one asking what she really wants is her best friend, Hunter.

Hunter Jackson doesn’t get attached. The data analyst has a new fling each week and bolts at the first sign of drama. No relationships. No feelings. No exceptions, aside from Ashlie—the one woman he’s allowed close enough to matter.

They’ve only ever been friends…except for the one night they don’t talk about. Family obligations send them back to Fort Bender, a place steeped in memories they promised to forget. With no more distractions, and personal demons pushed aside, their pretense crumbles into a night of noncommittal passion.

But when a new suitor for Ashlie turns out to be the perfect match, fear and desire collide. Ashlie clings to the ruse of their past, while Hunter can only see one future: her.

When the line between love and friendship blurs, the very things they’ve been running from may be exactly what they need.