The Sweetheart Dance — Patti Ann Colt

Although Echo Falls high school teacher Meg Applegate aches to belong to Bret Cara body and soul, he maintains a hands-off policy. She is wife material and violates his no relationship philosophy based on years with combative parents. But when a practical joker spikes Meg's drinks at the Valentine's Day Sweetheart Dance, Bret comes to her rescue - and she astounds him with a hot, sensual kiss. Assisting the police department in tracking teen felons, Meg takes the opportunity to snag the handsome cop's attention and they launch an affair based on Bret's 'no strings' rules. But each searing encounter conflicts with her beliefs and dreams. She cannot maintain their bargain forever, but despite making love he seems no closer to giving her what she needs. When Meg's conscience demands more from him, will Bret walk away or deliver his heart?