Striker's Waltz

He's on billboards in seventy cities. She hasn't trusted anyone in six years.

Preslee hasn't dated since her violent ex made the world feel unsafe. She volunteers at a soccer camp to feel normal again, and there she meets Matteo Cruz, an international star and the most patient, perceptive man she's ever tried to avoid.

Teo has spent his whole career in the spotlight. He knows who wants something from him and who doesn't. Preslee truly doesn't, and that makes him want to protect her even more.

She's not ready. He's willing to wait. But neither of them is as safe as they pretend to be.

✓ Protector hero, patience over pressure ✓ Survivor heroine reclaiming trust ✓ International soccer star romance ✓ Slow-burn safety-building ✓ Healing that isn't rushed