The Kicker and the New Girl by Anne-Marie Meyer

He’s just trying to survive. He never thought she would be the one who would understand.

Cora:
We’re starting over. Mom and Dad think the best way for me to move on from the death of Ben is to move to Oakwood. There, we can spend time with Mom’s late best friend’s family and open a new bakery.
And I’m okay with that. After all, I get to dance and in Oakwood where no one knows me, which means there are no pity stares and silent whispers.

Austin:
The world feels as if it’s stopped turning ever since Mom died. Dad’s colder than usual and all I want to do is forget the pain that is coursing through my body. Kendall was the only one who was there for me when Mom died and she’s the one person I can’t seem to let go. Even if Dad thinks she’s bad for me, she’s the only one who helps me feel grounded in my memories.
Then I meet Cora.
Our mom’s were best friends. They always wanted us to eventually date. Now that she’s here and Dad trusts her, she might be the key to my happiness. So we agree to fake date. Dad will get off my back and her parents will stop pity hugging her.

It’s a win/win situation.
Until it’s not. Until I can’t get her out of my mind.
Until all I want is this fake relationship to be real.

A sweet story of broken hearts and broken spirits who finally find peace and happiness with another.