When it rains, it pours. And right now, it’s a freaking monsoon.

Bjorn:

After my parents' deaths, I devoted myself to raising my younger siblings. It meant growing up fast, but I had to keep the family together. Romantic relationships weren’t a priority. My siblings had to come first.

It takes my near-death experience for me to reprioritize yet again. I need to stop meddling in my siblings’ lives and focus on me. Only, I’m not sure I remember how. Then Kaino Nieminen and Xander Neilsen walk out of my past and into my hospital room, and maybe, just maybe, the universe is finally cutting me a break.

Xander:

I live to fill eager students’ minds with the wonder of Austen, Shelley, and the Bronte sisters. I have no patience for unenthusiastic students, or issues letting them know. It doesn’t endear me to them. Or Deans in the English department. Or romantic partners.

Except for Bjorn Osouf. Our fleeting but passionate relationship burns in my memory like the glowing embers of Manderley. When he almost gets himself killed, it’s my sign to reconnect. As expected, there’s still a spark between us. What’s unexpected is the imminently fascinating Kaino Nieminen and my inconvenient attraction to them.

Kaino:

Making personal connections is a challenge. I’m no introvert, but I need time to really get to know someone, to trust them, before they’re a friend. It takes even longer for anything romantic to develop, and believe me, most people aren’t that patient.

Only one person has cared to try. And when Bjorn almost dies it’s the shove I need to seek him out. Before I know it, I’m in his hospital room, and the instant reconnection has me eager to give things one more try. Then Xander Neilsen walks in and throws a wrench into my plan.