The Reverend's Regard. Hollow Bridge, #4

The truth is always revealed.  Kayla ZieglerI blame Janice Lipinski for this whole mess. She cornered Martin after the Ash Wednesday service and made a pass at him. What married woman hits on the preacher? Janice Lipinski, that's who. I thought I could rescue him from her clutches. Pretending to be Martin's girlfriend was the only idea I had! Now, thanks to Janice and her big mouth, all of Hollow Bridge believes Martin Braden and I are actually a couple. We have no choice but to pretend we're dating.
It would irreparably damage Martin's reputation if the town learns their pastor is a liar. I got him into this, it's my responsibility to get him out. We'll act as though we've secretly been seeing each other, go on a couple public dates to really sell the ruse, and break up by Easter. It's foolproof.  Martin BradenJanice Lipinski is no fool. She seemed unconvinced that Kayla and I are dating. We aren't, but Janice doesn't know that.
Unfortunately, my heart didn't get the memo either. From the moment my sister introduced me to her friend, I haven't been able to get Kayla off my mind. I thought about asking her on a date, but I know it's inappropriate considering I'm mentoring her while she pursues seminary. The truth is, I wish Kayla really were my girlfriend. It's torture to act like her boyfriend when I know our fake relationship has a deadline.
She's given no indication that my feelings are reciprocated, so once the jig is up all I'll have are memories of our time together. I best enjoy these moments while I can.   If you enjoy small town gossip, women dating their friend's brother, and unrequited love (or is it?), then this closed-door Christian romance novella is for you! The Reverend's Regard is book four in the interconnected Hollow Bridge Series.
While they can be read as standalones, it is recommended to read the series in order. This story includes instances of nonconsensual kissing.