Zenisla Sullivan has always believed in love—the kind that’s steady, safe, and nothing like the chaotic marriage she grew up watching. As Lovington Junior High’s track coach, she knows how to pace herself … except when it comes to her heart. 
 
Brooks is brilliant, awkward, and completely out of step with the powerful, image-obsessed family he comes from. For five years, he and Isla have been just friends—until one perfect summer night changes everything. One kiss. One chance. One moment that comes far too late.
Because Brooks already has a girlfriend. And Isla? She’s done waiting.
 
But when betrayal leaves them both single, a muddy, impulsive pact brings them back together: one revenge-fueled mud run, one family wedding, and absolutely no strings attached. Just friends. No risks. No broken hearts. Except nothing between Isla and Brooks has ever been simple.
 
As old feelings resurface and boundaries begin to blur, Isla risks everything, daring to believe the love she’s always dreamed of might finally be within reach with Brooks—if he can choose his own path over the one his family has planned for him.
 
In a town where everyone has an opinion and nothing stays buried for long, Isla and Brooks will have to decide: play it safe … or finally fight for the kind of love that’s worth the mess.