Skye Bennett

Archer Bennett—happy with his current life, is suddenly stabbed, losing everything he loves. However, he quickly finds out that death is not always final. Transmigrated into a magical world—as a child named Archer Ashguard—he finds himself abandoned. Lost and alone, with mysterious and potent magical abilities. He sets out on an adventure that’s sometimes fun, sometimes serious, and full of girls! Join Archer as he embarks on a legendary journey that will change the world. No Yuri or NTR ----------------------------------------------------- Super Gift = three extra chapters. If you want to support me, go to my Patreon = patreon.com/NegansPalace Two chapters per day. https://discord.gg/rkyQyz85DJ

A Whisper of Her Touch: --- One night was all it was supposed to be. One unforgettable night. Ethan Cross has always lived his life by the book—structured, ambitious, and determined to leave his mark as a celebrated architect. But when a chance meeting at a rooftop party leads to a night of passion with a captivating stranger, his orderly world is turned upside down. The woman, Aria Bennett, disappears by morning, leaving behind nothing but a whispered promise of fleeting connection. Aria Bennett thrives on freedom and adventure. As a travel journalist, her life is a blur of new places and fleeting moments. The last thing she wants is to settle down—especially not with someone like Ethan, whose life seems rooted in permanence. But months later, fate throws them back together when they’re forced to collaborate on a project close to both their hearts. Their reunion is electric, but neither is ready to face the scars that keep them from love. Ethan struggles with a fear of vulnerability after a broken engagement, while Aria’s restless spirit is haunted by a past she can’t outrun. As the lines between their worlds blur, they discover that true connection isn’t found in fleeting touches—it’s built through trust, courage, and compromise. But when Aria is offered the job opportunity of a lifetime, both must decide if they’re willing to fight for a love that challenges everything they thought they wanted. In A Whisper of Her Touch, two souls collide in a tale of passion, vulnerability, and the quiet moments that leave the deepest marks.

Andriana "Andy" Bennett had lived her entire young life like a Princess, spoiled and loved by her parents and older brother. But tragedy struck her family, leaving her orphaned and alone. The Preston family took her in. Mr. Preston, her father's best friend, treated her like the daughter he never had, honoring his friendship with her father. However, Mrs. Preston only tolerated her presence. She had ensured that she would remember she never belonged in their family. Then, there were the handsome Preston brothers, Lucas, who treated her like she did not exist, and Tristan, who had become very close to her. Her life might not be perfect, but it was ok until she caught her boyfriend cheating on her on her 21st birthday. Wanting to get back at him, she dared to kiss her so-called brother, the older Preston brother, Lucas. What she did not expect was that he would kiss her back. Then, that was where the chaos started as she found herself on a roller coaster ride. She was engaged in a day, married in a week, and divorced two years after their contract ended. It sounded simple enough, but it was not. What would happen next?

"How dare you do this to me? Who gave you the right to think you can divorce me, Vanessa?" "Why should I ask for your permission, Ethan? You're already out when you cheat with your b*tch!" *** A successful career, Expensive cars, a Vila in the upper East Side of Manhattan, and a perfect Husband; Vanessa Bennett thought she had it all—an ideal life. Until she discovered her husband's infidelity in the worst way possible. Especially after overhearing their disgusting plan, divorce was no longer enough to vent her anger. She had abandoned almost everything for Ethan yet he was planning to ruin her. If only he knew who she really was. As the only heiress of the Reeds, she would never show mercy to the betrayers. However, she never expected her path would cross with Billionaire entrepreneur, Michael Hayes. "Vanessa, you never know what you've done to me." His kiss fell with his soft words and Vanessa felt her heart skipped. But was her broken heart ready for a new relationship? Who would she choose when Ethan turned back and begged her back?

*Author's other work (The Dragon Prince's Bride)* *** After surviving the utter destruction of the entire world, Kiva Quin and her best friend Skye Gailey find themselves in another world. The world of the ones who destroyed their home. The world of the demons. Kiva, who never believed in the existence of demons, now has to live in a world full of them. They've taken her family from her and thus she harbors a hatred, vowing to take her revenge and kill the one responsible for the destruction of her world: Leonis Rein; supreme ruler of the demon world. Leonis is a man who doesn't believe in love. He believes in taking possession of whatever catches his attention… And she did. He meets Kiva, and her aggressive, persistent nature draws him to her. Slowly, Leonis starts harboring an unhealthy obsession for Kiva. Kiva would do any and everything to put a knife in the heart of Leonis, or die doing so. But Leonis doesn't plan on letting death take her. At least not yet. *** Excerpt Holding both my hands tightly together behind me with just one of his own, Leonis pressed his broad chest upon my back as I wriggled and try to get out of his stronghold. A gesture I knew was futile because he was strong, very strong. "Run if you like." His whisper sounded next to my left ear, and I wished to deny it, I wished to tell myself I don't feel it, but I do. I feel a certain tingle every time this demon is this close to me. "I will pursue you. Hide if you must, I shall find you, and die if you choose, I shall make death cough your soul back into your cold body." I knew it. He will never let me go.

Two years ago, alpha baseball star Logan Whitaker left his omega mate, Noah Bennett, to chase his dreams—just as Noah’s world was falling apart. Now, an injury sends Logan back to the small town he abandoned, and to the mate he left behind. But Noah is no longer the soft omega Logan remembers. He’s the head coach of Logan’s new team, the father of a son he never knew he had, and the cold fire in his eyes makes it clear: forgiveness is off the table. Noah has no interest in reopening old wounds. But Logan isn’t the same selfish alpha who left, and he’s determined to win back the family he didn’t know he had. Can two broken hearts find their way back to each other, or will Logan strike out for good?

In this heartwarming and captivating romance, Be My Wifey takes readers on an emotional journey of love, trust, and second chances. Amara Collins is a strong-willed, independent woman who has sworn off relationships after a painful heartbreak. Focusing on her thriving career, she’s determined to avoid the distractions of romance. That is, until she crosses paths with Noah Bennett—a charming, successful entrepreneur who seems to have everything, except the one thing he truly desires: a lasting love. When a chance encounter brings them together, sparks fly, and Noah is immediately drawn to Amara’s spirit and beauty. Despite her reluctance, he’s determined to win her over. But Noah carries a secret—a family obligation that comes with a surprising proposal. In a twist of fate, he offers Amara an unconventional deal: pretend to be his fiancée for a few months to fulfill a family tradition, and in exchange, he’ll help her achieve a personal goal she's always dreamed of. Caught between logic and the undeniable chemistry they share, Amara agrees to the arrangement. But as they navigate the challenges of pretending to be a couple, feelings they never expected begin to surface, complicating their seemingly simple deal. With their hearts on the line and personal stakes rising, will they be able to separate fantasy from reality—or will their pretend love turn into something real? Be My Wifey is a heartfelt story about taking risks, opening up to love again, and discovering that sometimes, what starts as a game can lead to a lifetime of happiness.

The whispers picked up again, louder this time, like they were trying to fill the silence with stories and speculation. “Do you think she’s new?” “I heard she’s a transfer student.” “She doesn’t look like she belongs here.” “Why is Hayden even looking at her?” I clenched my pen tightly, forcing myself to take deep, steady breaths. I didn’t know what was happening or why they had singled me out, but one thing was certain—I was in over my head. When the bell finally rang, I practically bolted out of the classroom, hoping to avoid any more encounters with them. But as I turned the corner, I heard his voice, low and amused. “Leaving so soon?” I froze, my heart thundering in my chest as I turned to see Hayden leaning casually against the wall, his arms crossed over his chest. His friends stood a few feet behind him, their expressions varying from curious to downright predatory. Aurora Bennett, a new transfer student at Silver Crest Academy, never expected to become the center of attention. Whispers follow her wherever she goes, especially about Hayden Carter, the school’s most notorious and mysterious student. When their paths cross, Aurora finds herself caught in a dangerous web of intrigue and power. As tensions rise and her place in the school becomes more uncertain, Aurora realizes one truth: getting involved with Hayden and his friends could change her life forever. But will she be able to handle the consequences of standing up to him—or will she regret it?

Amelia Reed and Ethan Blake never imagined their lives would intertwine in a marriage neither wanted. While Amelia dreams of freedom and a life of her own design, Ethan’s heart beats for Claire Bennett, his childhood love. Bound by duty to their families, they forge a fragile façade of happiness, hiding the cracks beneath. But their charade begins to crumble when jealousy, betrayal, and an obsessed admirer unravel the delicate balance of their lives. Ethan’s lingering love for Claire pulls him in one direction, while Amelia’s yearning for independence draws her in another. And as secrets come to light, an unrelenting admirer sets events in motion that could shatter their world forever. In a tangled web of love, sacrifice, and impossible choices, Amelia and Ethan must decide: will they fight for their own paths, or will they remain prisoners of a destiny written by others? Dive into a story of passion, heartbreak, and the relentless pursuit of freedom in Twisted Vows, Hidden Desires.

"Sinful Desires": Caleb Ryder is a captivating medical student with a quiet intensity that draws people in. Beneath his polite and charming exterior lies a world of forbidden thoughts and desires, waiting to be unleashed. His life takes a sensual turn when he reconnects with the Bennett twins—Lila and Lana—bringing intense passion and emotional complexities into the mix. Lila, the younger twin, is sweet, open, and eager to express her love for Caleb, leading them into a fiery, intimate affair that ignites both of their deepest desires. But Lana, the older twin, harbors her own hidden emotions, torn between her sister’s happiness and her own feelings of longing for Caleb. Her reserved demeanor hides a sensual side that only emerges in moments of trust, adding another layer to their tangled relationship. Caleb’s world becomes even more entangled when Ms. Amelia Hart, his childhood teacher, who lives next to his building, reappears with a mature allure that stirs memories of their shared past. Dr. Ivy Morgan, a captivating young professor, tempts him with her intelligence and undeniable charm, fueling his craving for dominance and control. Meanwhile, Sophie Hart, Ms. Amelia’s playful younger sister, offers a grounded yet alluring connection, adding a forbidden element to his desires. Ryan Taylor, Caleb’s loyal friend, remains a steady presence, understanding and accepting Caleb’s choices while navigating his own struggles with the complexity of their social entanglements. Evelyn and Chloe Taylor, Ryan’s sophisticated and tender sisters, bring distinct, seductive energies to the equation—Evelyn’s wisdom and elegance contrasting with Chloe’s caring, more approachable demeanor. As Caleb plunges deeper into this web of passion, boundaries blur, and emotions become dangerously intertwined. Every encounter draws him closer to his most carnal desires, exploring trust, betrayal, and the limits of desire. "Sinful Desires" is a journey through the seductive complexities of love, power, and forbidden pleasures.

In the once-peaceful town of Elmswood, Kai Bennett's ordinary life is shattered when monstrous Gates appear, unleashing havoc upon the world. In the aftermath, Kai awakens as an E-rank Hunter, one of the many humans granted extraordinary abilities to combat these emerging threats. However, in a world where a Hunter's rank is unchangeable, Kai’s journey begins under the most dire of circumstances

When Skye's boyfriend of five years, Derek, breaks up with her out of the blue during their wedding preparations, it feels like her whole world is crumbling. That is, until she happens upon a notebook containing what looks like magic spells. With nothing left to lose and in need of a distraction, Skye tries a spell...

In the year 1813, young cartographer Thomas Gray is struggling to keep his business afloat and desperately needs money. While cataloging books in the library of a wealthy estate, Thomas discovers an ancient map hidden within a secret compartment. The map hints at a hidden treasure in an unknown world, which to most people unexists. Determined to find the treasure and secure his future, Thomas teams up with Captain James Dalton, a seasoned explorer known for his daring expeditions, and Dr. Isaac Bennett, a brilliant but eccentric linguist and historian. Along the way, they cross paths with Eleanor "Ellie" Blackwood, a notorious thief with her own reasons for seeking the treasure. Despite their initial mistrust, the group realizes that they need each other's unique skills to succeed. As they journey through uncharted territories, they face numerous obstacles including natural dangers, hostile tribes, and ruthless treasure hunters led by the cunning Victor Kane. With each step closer to the treasure, they uncover secrets about the lost civilization and confront their own personal demons. In a race against time and enemies, they must navigate treacherous landscapes and decipher ancient clues to claim the hidden fortune and make history.

//Synopsis Information// The book follows the adventures of VivaCC, Maya, and Skye as they navigate a world filled with danger and mystery. VivaCC, in particular, is a resourceful and intelligent character who uses his wit to overcome challenges and protect his friends. //Main Character Descriptions// - VivaCC: The Strategist: Calm and collected, VivaCC is the analytical mind of the group. They are quick-witted and resourceful, always thinking ahead and devising plans. - Skye: The Charismatic One: Skye is the social butterfly of the group, effortlessly charming everyone they meet. They are kind, compassionate, and always ready with a smile. - Maya: The Craftsman: Maya is a skilled artisan with a gentle spirit. They are creative and resourceful, always finding practical solutions to any problem. //Other Information// - The book is inspired by Super Mario 64 machinima. - The characters and setting are similar to those in Super Mario 64. - The story is full of action and adventure, just like any old Super Mario 64 machinima. - The book is not going to make you toast.

The year is 2025. A devout Christian named Arthur Bennett wins a lottery to participate in a revolutionary virtual reality experience at a high-tech company called Elysium. The program utilizes a unique VR pod to immerse users in a world based on a popular anime. As the other participants—a mix of personalities with varying degrees of anime knowledge—prepare to enter the simulation, Arthur remains the only one who has never indulged in anime. Upon entering this new world, he discovers an unsettling truth: pain is excruciatingly real, despite the creators' claims of a dampened pain response. He eventually finds himself trapped in prison, unable to log out, and demanding to be released from the program. Calls go unanswered, and the world of ninjas becomes a nightmare where hunger, thirst, hygiene, and even death are all real. Angered that he was deceived, he abandons all sense of logic and vows to become a villain no one would have ever anticipated.

Taming the Storm Romance | Drama | Enemies to Lovers In the heart of a ruthless business empire, Damien Storm is a cold, calculating tycoon who trusts no one and believes love is a weakness. Haunted by his parents' betrayal and his own scars, he controls everything and everyone around him with an iron fist—until she walks into his life. Serena Bennett is the gentle yet firm therapist hired to change the culture of Damien's high-pressure company. Her calm presence and belief in the power of empathy unsettle Damien in ways he can't ignore. Though they clash from the start, Serena’s unwavering determination to bring peace and understanding to his corporate world makes her an unexpected challenge to Damien’s carefully constructed armor. As their tension-filled encounters unfold, the two begin a dangerous dance of power, vulnerability, and undeniable attraction. With every step, Serena pushes Damien further out of his comfort zone, unraveling the storm inside him. But Damien is no easy target. With his walls higher than ever, will Serena’s empathy be enough to break through, or will Damien’s cold heart remain impenetrable? In a battle of wills and emotions, Taming the Storm is a tale of growth, trust, and the transformative power of love. Will they overcome their pasts and find a way to heal together, or will their differences tear them apart? ---

After being torn from his world in a sudden flash of light, Luke Lyons finds himself in a universe that turns all his expectations upside down. His late wife, Skye, whom he mourned for years, now stands before him as a the strongest caped heroine in a society where the gender dynamics are reversed. Despite the familiar warmth in her gaze, she’s different in ways that make him question if she’s truly the same woman he loved. As Luke navigates this strange world, he wonders if he can rekindle his bond with this new Skye or if he's forever haunted by the memory of the one he lost. Can Luke embrace a second chance at love, or will he only see his beloved's shadow in the woman before him? No harem. Some smut but mostly plot. No harem.

Sophia Bennett, betrayed by her husband and step-sister, faced a gruesome end—burned alive with her unborn child. But fate grants her a second chance. Reborn back to when it all began, Sophia now have the chance to rewrite her tragic story. Reborn at the most critical moment that will change her life, “the arranged marriage with the richest and handsome bachelor, Alexander Brooks” which she escaped from in her previous life. Will Sophia get married and destroy Olivia's path to riches? Or finds herself entangled with Alexander Brooks. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “ Are you that desperate to secure the position of “Mrs Brooks” that you'll shamelessly throw yourself at me”? Alexander asks, his voice laced with contempt, his deeps eyes looking at the woman squirming under him. His eyes trails her curvy body as his right hand squeeze the soft mound on her chest, he thought he'd find her touch disgusting but his body couldn't help but react to her and he can barely control his actions. “Ummmm” Sophia moans to his touch “ p-please” she murmurs trembling, her eyes clouded as she rubs her hot and soft body against him. She feels hot all over and couldn't help groping his body to find relief. Loosing all restraint, Alexander leans to her ear, biting it and whispers huskily “since you're so eager, then don't blame me for being unrestrained”. He sucks her neck, bites down, “ahhhh ummmm” Sophia squirms in bliss. His hand roams her soft body, his head leaves her neck as he kiss his way down to her collarbone and down to her twin peaks. He latches unto one of her breasts, sucks and swirls his tongue round her erect nipple. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ “Rebirth from Ashes” weaves love, betrayal, redemption, and new beginnings.

In the waning borders of a once-mighty empire, the flames of war reignite. On the alien battlefield, the roar of tanks echoes and smoke fills the air as soldiers bravely charge into fierce combat. Under the vast starry sky, starships engage in intense dogfights, their fiery exchanges illuminating the cosmos. Faced with the threat of invasion, the empire's fate hangs in the balance, as warriors relentlessly strive to defend their homeland, showcasing their fearless spirit and unwavering determination.

“Sparks in the Rain” is a lighthearted and electric teen romance about Ellie Bennett, a sarcastic, stubborn high schooler navigating the mess of family drama, broken bikes, and big dreams she’s not sure she’ll ever reach. One stormy night, she meets Liam Harper, an unpredictable skater boy with a lopsided grin and a talent for finding humor in chaos. What starts as a rain-soaked encounter quickly turns into an unlikely connection as Liam brings spontaneity to Ellie’s carefully guarded world, while Ellie helps Liam confront the fears he’s been running from. But as sparks fly and walls come down, Ellie begins to realize that letting someone in means risking her heart—and that maybe, the rain isn’t the only thing falling.

Selena Yingyue Zhao, daughter of the late Zhao Bohai, does not want any part of what she thinks her father has planned for her. All her life she had fought for her own legacy, biding her time and following the rules in the hopes that one day she might leave her godforsaken surname behind in favour of the freedom she had been denied. However, Yingyue quickly learns that taking the reins of a predetermined fate and steering it off course is not as easy as she first thought it to be. With time running out; secrets being unearthed left, right and centre, and every step a possible landmine waiting to blow up what Zhao Yingyue thought would be the beginning of her new life quickly becomes the beginning of a horrific nightmare. While she wrestles with her new dizzying normal and the huge expectations that had been placed on her shoulders, her previous life, and everything she knew in it, is falling apart right under her feet. It is, of course, no help at all that a certain charming business rival may perhaps be just the one to help her make her mark in the business world and stand on her own two feet. But, with such smooth-talking tendencies, how could that possibly end well in any essence of the word?

A collection of short stories and other snippets of writing that get stuck in my brain and scenarios that I want to write, feel free to drop prompts and suggestions. I will be taking requests!

Miles Bennett, a 19-year-old pizza delivery boy, happened to deliver a custom-made love pizza on Valentine's Day to a regal home. Little did he know, his girlfriend Hanna would open the door with an elderly man gripping her waist lovingly. "You are such worthless trash, Miles!" Heartbroken, a screen flashed before this young man. [You are now the host of the 10x Modern Money System] [Starting with $10,000,000,000] [10× multiplier on income] [10× rebate on expenses] [Ding!] [First Mission Assigned!] [Details: Your heartless, wicked boss is on the brink of bankruptcy] [Action: Face-slap your boss, buy, and grow his pizza company to surpass McDonald's] [Reward: $10,000 and a 12-hour limited 30× rebate on expenses.] Miles clenched his fist and nodded with determination. "All who have looked down on me will pay!"

"Skye and Ashes" In a world where superpowers determine status and future, Alexander, a 17-year-old prince, is exiled from his home in Valorian and forced to start a new life on the streets of New York. Far from the luxury and fame he once knew, Alexander faces an uncertain future with nothing but a backpack and his pride. Despite his potential, Alexander’s arrogance and disregard for rules make him a difficult figure to approach. He enrolls in Coliseum Academy, the most prestigious institution for those with extraordinary abilities, hoping to find his place in a world full of power and ambition. Skye and Ashes is a story of personal growth, ambition, and redemption, set in a world filled with challenges, secrets, and the struggle to determine one’s true path. As Alexander navigates his future, he must decide what kind of person he truly wants to become.

Puran Crypto Recovery Introduces 4 Simple Ways to Recover Stolen Cryptocurrency

"SSS-ranked awakening with a trash talent? I really don't mind that!” Ace Kiryū, born in an era of Hades and walls where every child is blessed with three chances for awakening a gift: age 7, 14, and 18. Just like any other child, his wish was to awaken a gift at age 7; to be the third of the two SSS-ranked awakeners recorded in history, but his life was driven to force a stop, which led to his separation from his twin sister and the sudden ailment of his grandmother. Desperate to put things back in order, he finally stepped into a world far different from the tales he had been told— a world of dungeons; a sacred place he never should have set foot on, ravaging mysteries that were laden in the grave for centuries, which led to awakening a SSS-ranked summon— perhaps, a dragon. But this was just the beginning, as there was more to just being Ace Kiryū. Discord sever; https://discord.com/invite/euUndKFG

In the distant past, I was cursed by my dealings. I had been cursed to continuously live a different life from the previous one, And now it's already my 10th life. Now that it's my 10th life, I have been born as an imperial princess, namely, Amelia Noelani Francoise Elysion that is forced to marry a pathetic king of a small neighboring kingdom. My older brother is the emperor, so I guess that should be appropriate for a princess. "I love you, my dear Adelle." "Adelle is so happy." Still, I wondered if my good-for-nothing husband would die after being assassinated, either because she had cheated on his wife or for some other reason. Just when I was thinking about that, a letter came to me and had announced that my big brother and second brother had been assassinated. Then, as the next in line to the throne, the emperor will be me...or it would be passed on to my stupid husband. Any title I may inherit will go to my husband under our marriage contract. So, I have decided to not let this happen until the day I die once again. "I need to get divorced and become the emperor myself." With that, I have decided to act like a villain in order to successfully get divorced from him. I have said everything I wanted to say to my husband in order to achieve my goal of becoming the conqueror of the continent. "If you had waited one more day, the continent would've been yours. Your regrets end here, my dear Evanovich." When he realized the truth, it was already too late. Then, I spoke to my ex-husband who had his mouth agape. "I told you to keep your head straight. Didn't you understand me?"

Trusted and Legit Recovery Company - Cryptic Trace Technologies Losing access to my cryptocurrency wallet was a nightmare I never thought I’d face. After months of trying every recovery method I could find online, I was ready to write off my funds as gone forever. That’s when I heard about Cryptic Trace Technologies and I contacted them via their email: Cryptictrace @ technologist . Com. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but from our very first conversation, they were confident and clear about the steps they would take to help recover my lost assets. Their team’s expertise was immediately evident. Using cutting-edge blockchain tools, they quickly identified the issues and mapped out a strategy to retrieve my funds. What really impressed me, though, was how transparent they were throughout the process. They kept me informed at every step, breaking down complex technical details in a way I could understand. It wasn’t just about recovering my funds—it was about building trust. What truly set Cryptic Trace Technologies apart was their dedication to client care. They understood the anxiety and frustration that comes with losing significant assets and made it their mission to provide both solutions and peace of mind. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail gave me confidence I hadn’t felt in weeks. In the end, they delivered exactly what they promised: they recovered my lost cryptocurrency. Working with Cryptic Trace Technologies was one of the best decisions I could have made, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone in need of recovery services. They turned what seemed like an impossible situation into a story of success. You can also reach them via their other email: cryptictracetechnologies @ zohomail . com Website: Cryptictracetechnologies . Com

Alara Bennett had the world at her feet. With her striking features, confident strut, and a portfolio boasting magazine covers like Vogue and Elle, she was the face of every trending fashion campaign. Beside her stood Ethan Carter, a heartthrob actor whose talent and charm had landed him leading roles in blockbuster films. Together, they were the it couple: perfect, glamorous, and unattainable. Their relationship had been mostly private. Occasionally, they'd share a candid photo on Instagram—Ethan with a goofy grin and Alara in one of her signature oversized hoodies. Fans adored them, coining hashtags like #Ethara and #GoalsForLife. But fame always came with a price. Ethan’s latest movie, Shadows in the Rain, paired him with Scarlett Leigh, a rising actress known for her sharp wit and electric chemistry with her co-stars. From the moment the trailer dropped, fans went wild. Ethan and Scarlett’s steamy scenes were dissected and replayed endlessly, flooding TikTok with edits set to romantic music. Instagram buzzed with captions like: “Scarlett and Ethan >>> any couple ever #ShadowsInTheRain” (560k likes) “Can they just date already? The chemistry is unreal!” (312k comments) Alara scrolled through her feed, her chest tightening. She wasn’t jealous of Scarlett—she knew how professional Ethan was and how close they were as friends. But the overwhelming fan response planted seeds of doubt in her mind.

"Are you lonely?" "Sometimes. Yes." We didn't speak after that. Too much stuff was said. His words was heavy like the cake. And like the crashed car. And Mr Bennett's stupid Olympiad. ... Things go a muck when Poppy Grace meets Harley. The not so typical boy-next-door. He's named after a t-shirt and has a dad who isn't really his dad. And knows a lot about everything. He's normal. But, Poppy isn't. Except, maybe they're not so different after all.