She built walls to survive. He has the patience to tear them down. Benedetta Telbellion is a brilliant financial advisor with a legendary temper—and a deep distrust of athletes. At twenty-five, she’s mastered success, but not relationships. Guarded, socially awkward, and painfully alone, she’s convinced her emotional fortress is the only thing keeping her safe. Zach Verhoven is everything she thinks she hates: a star pitching prospect, three-time All-American, and former jock. But behind his talent is a goofy, kindhearted twenty-two-year-old who believes in showing up, doing the right thing, and treating people with care. Their first meeting is anything but charming—sharp banter, clashing personalities, and mutual irritation. But when a stranded car and a badly sprained ankle force Zach to step in, Benedetta finds herself relying on the one man she never expected. As Zach’s sister Bailey enters the picture, Benedetta’s carefully constructed world begins to crack. With patience, gentleness, and unwavering support, Zach offers something she’s never known: safety without walls. Can Benedetta risk stepping out of her shell? Or is it already too late to become the woman she was meant to be