Free To Crave

She escaped a killer. He became one to protect her. Now the only thing more dangerous than their past... is their passion.

Four years ago, Alexis Carter vanished to save her daughter-and herself. Now, she lives as Jade Jackson: poised, professional, and running events at Chesapeake Heights with a smile that hides everything she's lost. By day, she's a respected director. By night, she's a woman with a forged identity... and a heart that still races for the man who saved her life with blood on his hands and a vow he never meant to keep.

Malik Freeman is the black sheep of the Freeman legacy-and he wears that reputation like armor. An Army Ranger in a family of Navy royalty, Malik was trained to eliminate threats, not nurture hearts. But Jade isn't just anyone. She's the one he burned everything down to protect.

Every month, Malik returns to Chesapeake Heights under the guise of duty. But no one knows he spends each night watching over her from the shadows-craving the life he can't let himself have.

Until her enemies come calling.

When whispers from Jade's past surface in the wrong circles, Malik is forced to step out of the dark-into her home, her bed, and her line of fire. But protecting her now means confronting the secrets he buried long ago. And claiming her might destroy them both.

In a town built on legacy, lies, and second chances, survival isn't enough anymore. Because what they really crave... is each other.

If you love slow-burn Black romance, dominant protectors, and heroines who rewrite their own stories, this suspenseful standalone will leave you breathless and begging for more.