She arrives in the city, believing distance could keep her untouched. He arrived unconscious, his future already alternated. What connects them is never named, or felt formed in silence, restraint, and moments that were never supposed to happen. This is a story about loss, proximity, and what happens when feelings become unavoidable. © 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟨 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐋𝐈

Jamani Raelynn Carr has always preferred life behind the scenes-quiet, focused, and in control. But when she lands her dream internship as a sideline reporter for the Detroit Pistons, she finds herself thrust into the spotlight, balancing ambition, family expectations, and her own need for authenticity. Navigating the male-dominated world of sports journalism isn't easy, especially when every day feels like a high-stakes audition. Jalen Montez Duren, the Pistons' charismatic young star, is used to the pressure and scrutiny that comes with fame. But underneath his cool exterior, he's searching for something real-someone who sees the man beyond the jersey. When he meets Jamani at a chaotic NBA Media Day, a single thoughtful question sparks a connection neither of them expects. As Jamani and Jalen's paths continue to cross-on the court, at press conferences, and in the city that raised them-friendship slowly deepens into something more. But their growing bond is tested by public scrutiny, career setbacks, past heartbreaks, and the ever-present tension between personal dreams and professional duty. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Detroit, this slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance explores what it means to fight for love, identity, and your rightful place in the world. For Jamani and Jalen, the real victory might be learning to trust themselves-and each other-when the spotlight fades.

𝘒𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘪𝘦, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯'𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 ༯ Apart of the FAMU & Heaven series. You don't have to read FAMU or Heaven is a Teenage Girl to read the book!!

All rights go to me: • Aaliyah aka angelswearpradas • don't steal my shit, in any way or form. S: March 9th 2021 E: July 29th 2023

𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗽𝗹𝗲?