Ruthy Elise Harper had always lived in the space between worlds — not fully normal, but not entirely supernatural either. She grew up around secrets, strange disappearances, and instincts that told her when something wasn’t right. But the one thing she never suspected? That both of her best friends were secretly in love with her. Theo Raeken and Brett Talbot couldn’t be more different — and yet, they both found themselves drawn to Ruthy in ways neither of them expected. Theo was quiet, calculating, and always watching. He kept people at arm’s length, except for Ruthy. Around her, he softened — subtle smiles, protective instincts, and the rare moments where his guarded walls cracked. He told himself he only cared because she was his best friend… but every time she laughed at something Brett said, Theo felt something sharp twist in his chest. Brett, on the other hand, was warm, loyal, and effortlessly charming. He treated Ruthy like she was the most important person in the world — always checking in, always standing beside her. He had liked her for years but never acted on it, afraid of ruining the friendship they all shared. Still, he couldn’t help the way his heart sped up whenever she grabbed his hand during dangerous moments. Ruthy, completely unaware of their feelings, just thought she was lucky to have two best friends who always had her back. But things begin to change when strange attacks start happening around town. Ruthy becomes the center of something bigger — something ancient that seems drawn to her. As danger grows closer, Theo and Brett both step up to protect her, their rivalry slowly becoming more obvious. • Theo grows more territorial, standing closer to Ruthy, subtly pulling her away from danger… and from Brett • Brett becomes more openly protective, always placing himself between Ruthy and threats • The tension between them grows, but neither wants to hurt Ruthy by confessing