The Fear

HALA HANAN WAS BACK. AND THAT MEANT TROUBLE—ESPECIALLY FOR GRADY HILLER.

He'd had his fill of watching over his baby sister's closest friend years ago. He'd enjoyed the peace when she left for college. But Hala was back, filling in for the retired kindergarten teacher at Value Elementary.

Hala was back. And Grady almost swore she'd brought the sun with her. But he wasn't going to tell her how she made him feel. She deserved a better man than Grady Hiller would ever be.

HILLER BROTHERS WERE THE HOTTEST MEN IN THE COUNTY.

Hala had noticed that long ago. Grumpy Grady was the most beautiful of the bunch. Too bad he had the soul of a rotten troll—especially where she was concerned. They had been squabbling since childhood. She didn't see that changing soon.

Except now he was telling her she was beautiful. That he'd missed her laughter. That she didn't have to be afraid with him. Promising he'd never hurt her, while he held her close.

And now he was kissing her beneath the stars…

Her best friend's brother had just changed everything between them. And Hala liked it.

But then he claimed he wasn't good enough for a woman like her. What was up with that? He was one of the best men she knew…

Now Hala had to show him the truth. He didn't have to be afraid to be the man he was. He was perfect exactly as he was. Perfect for her. And Hala wanted her Hiller man forever.

But no one is ever truly safe. And that is a lesson this kindergarten teacher is about to learn the hard way…