Emma Talbot never imagined her quiet café would become the center of anything but morning routines and cinnamon scones. But when her childhood friend, now a uniformed officer, walks back into her life, everything she thought she’d buried stirs to the surface. Luke Walker was once the boy who saw her when no one else did now he’s the man carrying scars beneath the badge and walls built too high.
Luke’s return to the small town was supposed to be a reset. A way to find peace after years of chasing chaos. But the moment he sees Emma again, old feelings resurface steady, familiar… and undeniably more. Each morning coffee shared brings them closer, yet the fear of repeating old losses keeps them guarded.
As danger unexpectedly enters Emma’s life and Luke’s past shadows every decision he makes, trust becomes their most fragile currency. Can two people with walls wrapped around their hearts learn to lean into something as unpredictable and as steady as love?
Or will fear call the shots before love has its chance?
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Part of the sweet romance series “Forever by Your Side,” where every friendship blossoms into a timeless love story.
In Forever by Your Side, friendship becomes the foundation for love in stories that celebrate everyday heroes. Each standalone romance follows two people who have known each other for years neighbors, classmates, childhood companions only to discover that their bond has always been more than friendship. Set in warm communities filled with trust and belonging, the series highlights teachers, nurses, firefighters, soldiers, and others whose quiet courage inspires hope. With gentle chemistry, heartfelt moments, and happily-ever-afters, these wholesome tales show that true love often begins with the one who has stood beside us all along: a best friend turned forever love.
