Dockside Dreams

Emma Parker didn't plan on coming home.

Not for good. Not ever.

But when her grandfather passes away, she returns to Cottonwood Cove to settle his estate-and finds herself inheriting more than just a struggling marina. There are unpaid bills, looming repairs, a high-stakes summer festival... and a town full of people who remember exactly who she used to be.

Including Jake Sullivan.

Twelve years ago, Jake was the boy she left behind-and the one she never quite forgot. Now he's the harbor master, steady where she's restless, rooted where she's always run. And he's determined to save the marina her grandfather loved... whether Emma stays or not.

As summer unfolds, Emma finds herself caught between two futures: the life she built in the city, and the one she never expected to reclaim. With every sunset over the lake, every shared laugh, and every whispered memory, the line between "temporary" and "home" begins to blur.

But saving the marina will take more than hard work-and falling for Jake again might cost her everything she thought she wanted.

Sometimes, the place you leave behind is the one that finds you again.

And sometimes, the bravest thing you can do... is stay.