When the girl next door meets the man of her dreams, at exactly the wrong time.
Karen's finally decided what she wants to do when she grows up. (So what if she's thirty-four? Better late than never). Too bad it'll mean leaving behind her new neighbour, who's stirred up a different kind of grown up feelings. But when he rebuffs her attempt to have a fling before she leaves Wardham to study library science in the city, Karen knows it's for the best.

Intense and private, Paul has recently moved to Wardham for a more family friendly job, leaving behind a career as a homicide detective in the city. He only has his ten year old daughter a few nights a week, and he doesn't want any distractions or drama while he tries to repair their relationship.

But Karen is right next door, and everywhere he goes. His resolve to keep his distance only lasts until she needs a true friend in her corner, and he realizes he can't imagine life without her.