KEEPING YOU A SECRET

Rule #1: No jealousy.
Rule #2: No expectations.
Rule #3: No falling in love.

Growing up in a household torn apart by an ugly, toxic marriage, Maya Andrade learned one fundamental truth early in life: marriage doesn't fix love-it traps it until it rots. Bound by her unresolved trauma, she swears off traditional relationships and vows never to give anyone the power to break her.

Ethan Mercer-handsome, ruthless in the corporate world, and equally terrified of emotional vulnerability.

When their undeniable chemistry finally boils over, they make a pact. No legal papers, no romantic promises, and no future. Just a discreet, physical arrangement behind closed doors. Pure pleasure, zero strings attached.

It was the perfect agreement-until the line between fake detachment and real emotion begins to blur.

Just as Maya realizes she has broken the cardinal rule and fallen for him, Ethan decides to walk away for another woman-someone ready for the clean, commitment-filled life he suddenly wants. Choosing her peace over high-stakes drama, Maya silently disappears from his life, carrying a secret that will alter both of their futures forever.

Years later, fate pulls them back into the same room. Can two people terrified of commitment build a future from the ashes of their past, or will the shadow of a broken childhood keep them apart forever?