New York Times Bestselling Author

A fake relationship. A real obsession. And a love worth fighting for.

The horrors of Cypress Palmer’s childhood have dictated her future—at least where relationships are concerned. For years, she confused physical attention of any kind with intimacy. As an adult, she just avoids all of it, until a recent development prompts her to do the unthinkable: ask a trusted acquaintance to “marry” her to send a message to an obsessed coworker. She thought it was a foolproof plan. But they’re barely a week in before Cypress realizes…she loves spending time with Ryker…is deeply attracted to the man she’s coming to know. Suddenly, her simple proposition is causing complex emotions she wasn’t prepared for.

Still bearing the scars of his one and only long-term relationship, Ryker “Echo” Miller doesn’t intend to fall into that trap ever again. But that doesn’t mean he’ll turn away a friend in need…particularly when that friend is Cypress, who tweaks his protective instincts when she comes to him with tales of a stalking coworker who won’t take no for an answer. What starts as long looks and intimate touches in public to fool any onlooker, quickly turns into private moments for no one’s benefit but their own. And Echo can no longer deny, he wants this smart, funny, independent woman for more than just a ruse.

Going from fake relationship to real romance isn’t the problem for Cypress and Echo. The problem is one fixated, fastidious, patient pursuer who’s waiting for his moment…and it’s coming soon.

Rescuing Cypress

Jan 5, 2027