People always say I have the kind of lips that make you stare, soft, full, the kind that look like they belong in a glossy ad. And with my face, I guess I could get away with a lot more than I do. But I don't. I've never been that girl. I've always been quiet, a little shy, the kind who stays in her own little world. At least, I was. Because now, there's Toni Laurent. Charming, confident, and completely off-limits. He's about to become my stepfather, but that doesn't change the way he looks at me, or the way I feel when he does. Innocence doesn't stand a chance against a man like him.

Angelina Hayes, a gentle and sensitive girl, is overwhelmed with sadness after her father's death. Hoping to escape her troubled life, she becomes drawn to her new English teacher, Mr. Voss. ❦- I steal a glance through my lashes and catch Mr. Voss looking back at me. His eyes are deep and curious, and a small, knowing smile plays on his lips. There's something about him, dark, mysterious, and dangerous. He's smart, charming, and every girl's secret crush, even mine. I couldn't help but want what I shouldn't: his forbidden touch.

A broken girl. A quiet town that keeps too many secrets. And a man she should've never wanted. Her stepfather. Older. Off-limits. But sometimes, the heart wants what it shouldn't ︎❦ Dixon Norcross shouldn't be the one I reach for. He shouldn't be the one who makes me feel safe. But he's nice, stable, and the only thing in the world that doesn't seem to be slipping through my fingers. And I realize I shouldn't look at him like this. I know he should not look back. But Dixon has a secret that is strong enough to shatter the fragile thing we've built. And I won't know if it's too late or if I should run when I eventually find out the truth.

I didn't think my captor would be as maddening as he is captivating. He drags me back to the house I vowed never to return to. He wants answers, and if he needs to, he will rip them out of me. I'm broken down piece by piece by every harsh word and every burning touch. But within the confusion, I can't help but crave him, the way he observes me, the way he controls me. I am consumed by his pain, but also consumed by his presence. I should hate him, Instead I'm falling.