Sometimes I wish life had dealt me a different hand. Perhaps then, my parents would still be alive, and I could have graduated from university instead of dropping out to care for my brother and working in a bar—struggling to make ends meet each month.

In another life, Paxton and I might still be friends, but when I needed him the most, he was off touring the world. I haven’t heard from him in years—until he suddenly shows up at my work. In a turn of events, he becomes my roommate, hiding from the public and his band members. And just like that, the old crush I thought was history comes rushing back.

I only need to deal with him for a few months—just until my brother heads off to college. That can’t be so hard. Right?

TW: Narcissism, grief, mention of losing parents.