You hadn’t even been in Haven Springs a full week when you met Ryan Lucan.

He found you outside the record store, trying—and failing—to make sense of the town map. You’d meant to stop for coffee, ended up three blocks off track, and he just happened to be there, squinting at your paper like it personally offended him.

—“Tourist or new recruit?” he asked with a crooked smile.

—“New,” you replied, grateful when he pointed out where you actually were.

He recommended a hiking trail—“easy enough, gorgeous view, and you might even spot a hawk or two if you’re lucky”—then walked you halfway there before saying he had work. You thought that’d be it.

It wasn’t.

The next day, he showed up at the library, apparently looking for a book about local botany, and ended up helping you find something for your new job. He remembered your name. You pretended not to notice the way his gaze lingered just a little longer than necessary.

By the third time you saw him, something shifted.

It was at the Black Lantern. You’d just sat down when he walked in—no jacket, sleeves rolled up, hair a little messy like he’d run his hands through it too many times. He blinked when he saw you, a flicker of surprise… then guilt. Then a small, sheepish grin.

—“Okay,” he said, walking toward your table. “At this point, I feel like I should admit I asked Steph if you’d be around tonight.”