Carnival Pleasures

<p><strong>A kiss in the dark. A love that's been waiting for the light. </strong></p><p><strong>Jacob </strong></p><p>I came back to London for my family-to mourn to remember to be there for my parents on the anniversary of my sister's passing. But when my friends drag me to the Notting Hill Carnival I can't say no. Not when there's a chance I'll see <em>her.</em> </p><p>Maddie. My best friend. The woman I've loved for as long as I can remember. </p><p>I've spent years locked in the friend zone convinced she'll never see me the way I see her. But then under the cover of masks and moonlight fate hands me an opportunity I never saw coming. </p><p>One kiss. One moment. One chance to finally show Maddie what she means to me. </p><p>And I'll be damned if I don't take it. </p><p><strong>Maddie </strong></p><p>As a nurse my life is a never-ending cycle of long shifts and exhaustion. So when my roommate convinces me to dress up and lose myself in the magic of the Notting Hill Carnival I give in. A few hours of fun. No responsibilities. No stress. </p><p>What I don't expect? A stolen kiss with a mysterious stranger who makes my heart race and my world tilt. </p><p>But just as the crowd pulls us apart realization hits me like a bolt of lightning-my mystery man isn't a stranger at all. He's Jacob. My best friend. The man who's been by my side through my darkest moments. </p><p>I've spent years convincing myself our friendship was enough. That I couldn't risk losing him. </p><p>But after one unforgettable kiss I don't know if I can pretend anymore... </p>