Aaron

When I’m running on fumes while driving on what feels like the loneliest stretch of road in California, I worry I’m in trouble. Luckily, I happen upon Aqua Vista, a sleepy coastal town with the only pump for miles, and the grumpy owner who is more gorgeous than he has any right to be. When I’m told I’ll need more than fuel to disable the check engine light on my dash, I figure there are worse places to be stuck while my car gets needed repairs.

Jack

After driving the handsome city dweller to a local motel, the last thing I expect is the hot hookup that happens afterward. As soon as his car is ready, he’s on his way home, so imagine my surprise when he shows up a couple of months later with an offer to buy my business. No way I want an out-of-towner to own part of what my family has built here. Even if I’m not always fulfilled by it. Besides, it belonged to my parents, and it’s all I have left of them.

When Aaron decides to spend several days in town, I figure it’s to soften me up to his proposal. I shouldn’t hook up with him again. Or spend time showing him around…but I do. Before I know it, the charming, attractive visitor starts to feel familiar, almost like he belongs here. Like he’s woven himself into the very fabric of Aqua Vista. I’m fooling myself, of course, and it’ll certainly sting when he hits the road. Outsiders never stay, and though I secretly wish he would, I’m no stranger to heartache.