I wanted a baby — no strings, no messy emotions. Just a donor I could trust — my best friend. He didn’t hesitate or ask why. He said yes… with one condition: no clinics, no cold procedures. Just him — his bed, his way. I should have said no. But I wanted this. And I didn’t realise how much I wanted him. I told myself I could handle it — keep my heart locked tight. But the moment he touched me, all those lies fell apart. Now I’m falling — for a man who never promised me anything but his body. And my deepest desire risks becoming my darkest downfall. But now there’s no turning back.
Axel
She asked me to give her a baby. No love. No future. Just a piece of me. I ain’t a good man. I ain’t the kind you build a life with. But this… this was my one chance to touch heaven and pretend it wouldn’t burn me alive. So I took her. Over and over. Knowing she’ll never be mine. But now I’m addicted. Possessive. I don’t want just her body — I want her soul. Her future. Her everything. And when she walks away — like we both know she will — it’ll break me. Because I’d give her the world… But I’ll never be worthy of it.
I wanted a baby — no strings, no messy emotions. Just a donor I could trust — my best friend. He didn’t hesitate or ask why. He said yes… with one condition: no clinics, no cold procedures. Just him — his bed, his way. I should have said no. But I wanted this. And I didn’t realise how much I wanted him. I told myself I could handle it — keep my heart locked tight. But the moment he touched me, all those lies fell apart. Now I’m falling — for a man who never promised me anything but his body. And my deepest desire risks becoming my darkest downfall. But now there’s no turning back.
Axel
She asked me to give her a baby. No love. No future. Just a piece of me. I ain’t a good man. I ain’t the kind you build a life with. But this… this was my one chance to touch heaven and pretend it wouldn’t burn me alive. So I took her. Over and over. Knowing she’ll never be mine. But now I’m addicted. Possessive. I don’t want just her body — I want her soul. Her future. Her everything. And when she walks away — like we both know she will — it’ll break me. Because I’d give her the world… But I’ll never be worthy of it.
This book is about a bold and unconventional arrangement between lifelong friends that slowly unravels into something far more emotional and transformative. In this book, Rachael Stewart explores the complicated bond between Taylor and Axel, whose agreement to conceive a child without commitment quickly blurs as long-buried feelings rise to the surface.
What begins as a pragmatic decision—Taylor’s desire for motherhood and Axel’s willingness to help—evolves into a deeply layered romance filled with tension, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry. Axel’s long-standing love for Taylor adds emotional weight, while Taylor’s guarded independence creates a push-and-pull dynamic that keeps the story engaging.
The novel balances high heat with heartfelt themes, particularly the emotional challenges surrounding fertility and the fear of wanting more than what was promised. Moments with Lottie bring warmth and humor, softening the intensity of the central relationship.
Although it works as a standalone, prior context enriches the experience. Overall, this is a steamy yet emotionally grounded story about love, timing, and the courage to risk everything for a second chance.
My Sanctuary 