Malibu adopted a persona when he started at Elite 8 studios and he’s basically hidden behind it for years. His friends see him as this easy breezy Cali surfer type, but he is really none of that. He hides a painful past that still affects him significantly. And as he is under more and more personal stress and the triggers are becoming worse. He needs a way to make more money to get out of debt so when an amazing opportunity falls in his lap, it is just too good to refuse. 

Henrik Larsen is an older, broody, rich, successful businessman, but he has his own personal limitations that he has fought hard to overcome. Despite his challenge, he is very independent and has his life perfectly organized. But he’s lonely and needs companionship so much that he’s willing to pay for it. But by his own rules, he is not supposed to get attached and usually does not.

But when Malibu and Henrik meet, there’s just this spark and a connection that slowly builds. I loved the way Mal just sees Henrik as an attractive and interesting man and not his disability or a bank. And even though Henrik tries to be gruff and detached, he quickly finds himself enjoying Mal's company and wanting to break his own rules. And I loved seeing Henrik's protective and possessive nature come out. He starts wanting to take care of Mal when he needs it and he strives to make Mal feel safe. These two really see the real person under the facade straight to their heart and they accept each other and like each other for just who they are. But it’s a complicated situation not only because of their agreement, but also because they both have fears of getting attached and getting hurt.

So there are some misunderstandings and miscommunication,  and changing dynamics and they’re afraid to admit it. My heart hurt for both of these guys at times. Mal‘s just this sweet, loving, wonderful guy who has been through so much and just needs someone to really care and be there for him. But he is also afraid of letting people in and does not want to take advantage of people. And Henrik has been so determined to prove he did not need anyone that he self-isolated and felt like some people just want him for what he can do for them. He didn’t trust that someone would want just him for who he is as a person despite his challenges.

Seeing the vulnerability and trust develop between these two is really beautiful. You can feel the intimacy and draw between them and the intenseness of their connection. And there is understanding, acceptance, passion, and companionship too. I just really loved them together and seeing them grow and heal. 

Of course, everything‘s not going to be easy and there are some problems they have to overcome. But I will say this book had the most epic groveling scene that just had me smiling. I enjoyed getting more with his friends, Dix, Nico, and Alex. I can’t wait for Alex‘s book. He’s such a little vibrant sprite who is going to be quite a handful. I loved Henrik's assistant Benji too. If he didn’t already have a husband, I would’ve been wanting him to hook up with one of the Elite 8 guys. He cracked me up.