Prologue

Arriving solo on Prince Edward Island after Bridget misses their flight, Lucy Ashby heads to Shack Malpeque for food. She notices Felix, an oyster shucker with a guarded air and instant chemistry sparks between them as they flirt across the bar. After Lucy hints she is “wide open,” Felix nicks his wrist; she helps bandage him in the back office, intensifying their connection.

Felix invites Lucy to take him home. At his seaside house, they kiss, undress, and begin a passionate affair that continues through the evening. They share a simple dinner on the deck and return to each other repeatedly, the encounter feeling both risky and irresistible.

By morning, the mood turns warm and unawkward. Felix offers coffee and to text local recommendations. When Lucy shares the address where she’s staying—Bridget’s family place—Felix goes pale. Lucy spots a familiar ceramic toad by the door and realizes she is already at Bridget’s house.

The revelation lands: Lucy is “Bee,” and Felix is “Wolf,” Bridget’s brother. This directly breaks Bridget’s rule not to fall in love with her brother, setting up a fraught complication for their friendship and the summer ahead.