Maya had her whole life planned out-get into her dream school, study, and make something of herself. But when rejection flips her world upside down and her best friend Lily gets dumped, Lily has the perfect solution: a summer road trip and finally check off the bucket list they made as kids. It sounds like exactly what they need-until Noah shows up. Lily's older brother and Maya's childhood crush, Noah, left three years ago after a nasty fight with their dad and hasn't looked back since. Now he's suddenly back in town, fresh off a messy breakup, and somehow joining their trip. He's different now-quieter, rougher around the edges-but Maya's totally over him. Right? As they chase old dreams across state lines, Maya starts to realize that some things never really fade. But something about Noah feels off, and Lily isn't acting like herself either. This trip was supposed to be about moving on but the past has a way of catching up when you least expect it.

Esme and Matt can't stand each other, even if they have to play nice for the cameras. As public speculation about their chemistry heats up, they're forced to confront what's real versus what's just for show. ***** Esme Mendoza is everything Matt Crain isn't--polished, optimistic, and proud of her golden girl image. He's brooding, arrogant, and impossible to work with. As co-stars in an indie romance film, they're forced to act like soulmates on screen while barely tolerating each other behind the scenes. When their banter and lingering stares spark fan speculation during the press tour, their PR teams jump on the opportunity, but Esme and Matt aren't too thrilled. Suddenly, they're everywhere--public appearances, exchanging snarky remarks in interviews, and fueling endless rumors. As their forced chemistry starts to feel a little too real, Esme and Matt are left questioning: are they just playing a role, or could this be end game? ***** WARM HANDS #1 Open Novella Contest -- prompts 45 & 127 [[OPEN NOVELLA CONTEST 2025 ROUND 2 AMBASSADORS' PICK]] © 2025 caterina george // all rights reserved