Knoxville Coyotes Quarterback Avery Callaway is a legend.

And he thinks I'm his stalker.

I promise, I'm not. Turns out we just happen to live in the same building.

Besides, I know men—athletes—like Avery. Egocentric, undeniably charming, downright gorgeous.

I dated one once. Until he broke my heart.

But that was a long time ago and I'm a smarter, more driven, and disciplined woman because of it.

In fact, I'm only in Tennessee to get my PhD in ornithology.

So what's the problem? My visa is tied up in red tape, I'm at risk of losing the career of my dreams, and Avery Callaway is proposing to marry me.

I know his reasons are selfish, and his motive is personal.

I know our marriage is just an arrangement.

I need to that as Avery shows up for me in ways I never anticipate.

He makes me feel seen and cherished. Cared for and loved.

But is it real?

​​​​​​​Or is being bound to the quarterback a blitz neither of us sees coming?