Their relationship was a house of cards built on lies.
Reveal one truth and the whole thing will collapse.

Alek and Ian’s relationship is built on lies and the cracks are starting to show.

A pianist gifted with synesthesia, Alek sees sounds and hears colors and transforms all of his emotions into music. But no matter how hard he tries to hide behind a facade of apathy and seduction, he can’t escape the dark past that haunts him.

Contractor Ian sees the beauty in something destroyed by neglect and his obsession with fixing extends beyond historical buildings. But when Alek’s self-destructive tendencies turn their relationship to ruins, Ian fears Alek is the first project he’ll have no choice but to abandon.

Now the Gothic Victorian mansion they’re renovating is the only thing connecting them. Alek will do anything to keep Ian with him.

Except tell the truth.

Because Alek is lying about everything, starting with his name, and when Ian learns the truth, their house of cards will collapse.

  • relationship in crisis

    second chance romance

    hurt/comfort

    mental health rep

    darker themes

    toxic relationship turned healthy

    gothic vibes

    villain redeemed

  • alcohol

    blood

    brain surgery (doesn’t occur on page)

    death of an animal

    depression

    drug references

    eating disorder (brief mention)

    fire (house fire, no injuries)

    hospitalization

    inpatient psychiatric hospitalization

    murder

    neglect (emotional, by parents)

    potentially ableist language

    self harm (a side character has cutting scars)

    suicidal ideation/suicide

    toxic relationship dynamics

    weaponized jealousy (no cheating/other man drama)