Boyfriend Without Benefits (The Jilted Exes' Club #3)

Here's Riley Hart's latest novel "Boyfriend Without Benefits." It's the second in Riley's new series, The Jilted Exes' Club.

["Anthony
I’m the last single member of the Jilted Exes’ Club, and I have no plans to change that.
I’m fulfilled with my work at the club, dance classes, yoga, and the Exes. Plus, I’ve been extremely preoccupied with one Kason Maddox, the LA Rebels’ goalie. Let’s just say that since we’ve become friends, my eyes might drift in his general direction a little too much. But it’s only looking. And looking never harmed anyone…
Eventually, our texting sessions lead to dinners out and ending our nights watching our favorite shows. But when the paparazzi catch sight of us and the photos go viral, I suddenly find out I’ve had a boyfriend and didn’t know—a boyfriend without the benefits. And I’m thinking we should reconsider the benefits in this relationship if we are going to be in one.

Kason
So…I thought we were dating. Turns out, the guy I was dating had no idea that’s what we were doing. Friend-zoned without even knowing it. Cool. The equivalent of taking a puck to the face.
But due to an innocent little photo or two, now everyone thinks we’re together, so we have three
1- Stop hanging out to silence the rumors.
2- Hang out as friends and ignore the gossip blogs.
3- Start dating—and both of us are aware of said dating this time.
I know which one I’m rooting for. And if I have to use a little dirty talk and some praise to shift things in my favor, I’m game."]

To be honest, if anyone were to fall into this not-used-as-often-as-it-should-be-trope, it would be these two. Having read them dating/not-dating, I can see where the confusion started. They were super flirty and friendly and fun and feisty with each other. There was cuddles and accidental sleepovers and cheek kisses (and *swoon* forehead kisses). Ant didn't want his growing feelings to make Kason feel bad or regret their friendship; Kason didn't want to pressure Ant into anything too fast. 

Then again, their feelings were growing and growing, and it was more and more obvious as time went on that they were dating (even if Ant didn't completely catch on).

And when they caught on? The chemistry exploded, feelings grew so fast. It was hard to ignore (though Ant tried his best).

This relationship was all about trust and comfort and kindness and support. It was adorable and uplifting and utterly perfect for both of them.

A great ending for a great series!

Trigger warnings: parental death, parental neglect, minor (past) bullying, paparazzi being paparazzi, feelings of self-doubt, panic attacks, and more. 

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