A broken dream. A bruised heart. A second chance under the wide Texas sky.
Lyla James was on the brink of Olympic glory—until a devastating injury and a brutal breakup shattered everything she’d worked for. Returning home to Pleasant Valley, she finds herself recovering on a ranch owned by none other than Christian Matthews—her older brother’s best friend and the man she once asked out in a moment of teenage courage.
Christian’s focused on saving the family ranch, not falling for the woman he’s sworn to protect. But Lyla’s sharp tongue, wounded heart, and undeniable strength start to break through his walls. As she battles physical therapy and the ghosts of her past, a spark ignites between them that neither can deny.
But when old flames refuse to let go and secrets threaten to unravel everything, Lyla and Christian must decide if love is worth the risk—or if they’re better off running from the fire.
A slow-burn romance full of wit, heat, and heart, perfect for fans of small-town drama and second chances.