Loving Death

I never expected to run into Maverick Houston—especially not in the aftermath of grief.
My childhood bully. The boy who made school a nightmare. Now he's standing in front of me, looking just as lost as I feel—and unfairly, heartbreakingly handsome.
I should walk away.
But Ma's voice echoes in my head, reminding me to lead with grace, not grudges. That doesn't explain the electric current between us, the pull I can't seem to fight.
One look at Rose Marie Benedict, and the weight of who I used to be nearly brings me to my knees.
I hurt her—deeply. And yet, here I am, planting roots in the same small town I once tried to escape. I didn't come to Norina looking for redemption. But maybe it found me anyway.
Now I have to prove I've changed. That the man I am today is someone she can trust… maybe even love.
But forgiveness is a fragile thing.
And even if she gives it, do I deserve her heart?