After Midnight

What happens when a fleeting night turns into something you can't walk away from-even when you're 3,000 miles apart?

Lia Jennings had it all planned out. As a dedicated Harvard PhD student, her life revolves around lab work, research deadlines, and a very clear path to success. There's no room for distractions-especially not the kind that comes in the form of a dangerously attractive, professional hockey player.

But when a New Year's Eve one-night stand with Derrick Hart-star forward for the Boston Knights-turns her world upside down, she chalks it up to one unforgettable night. No strings, no expectations.

Except fate has other plans.

When their paths unexpectedly cross again, neither can deny the electric chemistry still crackling between them. So they agree to keep it casual-just stolen moments, shared nights, and zero promises. It's safer that way. Easier.

But nothing about this feels easy anymore.

Derrick's sudden trade to a team in California sends him across the country, while Lia's research program begins to spiral into chaos. Yet, even as distance stretches between them, they find themselves turning to each other for comfort, support, and a sense of grounding neither expected.

As emotions deepen and the stakes rise, one question lingers: Is what they have worth risking everything for?

A slow-burn, long-distance romance full of witty banter, sizzling tension, and emotional depth, this story is for every reader who believes that love doesn't always follow the rules-but it's always worth the fight.