Guarded by her Brother's Best Friend

This is a SHORT ROMANCE with a read time of about 90 minutesROWANReturning to Berry Ridge for my pilot study is supposed to be simple. Just one week, then back to my academic life. My focus is on work, not romance. According to my ex, I'm not great at having any fun. So I decide to prove him wrong with a no-strings fling, and who better than Blake, my brother's best friend with a reputation for keeping things casual? It's a fun experiment. One night, no complications, and then we part as friends. Couldn't be simpler.BLAKEWhen Deacon asks me to keep an eye on his little sister while she conducts research in the park I patrol, I figure it's just a favour for my oldest friend. But Rowan isn’t the goofy kid I remember — she’s grown into a brilliant, persevering woman. Suddenly my recent desire for more than just a physical connection has a face. Her face. And the more I'm around her, the harder it is to ignore my feelings. Protecting her is my job, but falling for her? I can't risk my friendship with Deacon... even if Rowan makes me feel things no one ever has.Welcome to Berry Ridge, where queer joy is the norm. This story features a Trans FMC & Transmasc Nonbinary MC. In this spirited mountain town, love always wins. Expect heart, heat and healing in this series of interconnected standalone short romances!