Hartley and Elijah start the book with a hostile dynamic before developing feelings.

Hartley initially rejects him but eventually relents when he insists. As they spend time together, Hartley realizes Elijah’s "grumpy giant" exterior hides a different man, and the lines between their façade and reality begin to blur. ## Key Characters

A signature style of author Shaw Hart , focusing on obsessed "alpha" heroes and "curvy" female leads. ## Critical Reception

The protagonist and bakery owner who initially tries to avoid Elijah.