I was only looking for a roommate…

I’m the town widow.

Not the only one, but the youngest by far.

My husband died one year after our wedding, casting me as the charity case in my small Alaskan town.

Since then, everyone—including my big family—try to keep me busy as if that will stop the haunting memories from resurfacing.

Do I know it’s time to move on? Of course, but that’s easier said than done.

Then Van Adler rides into town. His bad boy vibe complete with his motorcycle and tattoos causes my body to fill with need for the first time since my husband’s death.

To make matters worse, he’s the one who answered my ad for a roommate. Sharing the close quarters of our two-bedroom apartment means I have to set some ground rules like keeping his rippled abs covered. Soon we become friends, he’s making me dinners, and we’re binge-watching television shows all night.

The more our lives intertwine, the more I start to fall for him. Leaving me wondering, can you find the love of your life twice in one lifetime?

Do I know it’s time to move on? Of course, but that’s easier said than done.

Then Van Adler rides into town. His bad boy vibe complete with his motorcycle and tattoos causes my body to fill with need for the first time since my husband’s death.

To make matters worse, he’s the one who answered my ad for a roommate. Sharing the close quarters of our two-bedroom apartment means I have to set some ground rules like keeping his rippled abs covered. Soon we become friends, he’s making me dinners, and we’re binge-watching television shows all night.

The more our lives intertwine, the more I start to fall for him. Leaving me wondering, can you find the love of your life twice in one lifetime?

Connor Crais

Stem