Although it is a lovely story of second-chance romance, at its core, this is a story about familial expectations and who you are when you no longer feel the drive to meet them.

Denz is a loving, supportive friend, brother, and son, but he struggles with self doubt brought about by a lifetime of trying to live up to his highly successful family's expectations. He's the perfect example of someone who has lived so long defined by his family name that he has no idea who or what he is without it. It's clear that Denz desires his family's acceptance and approval, but the question is what he will do if that isn't forthcoming in the way he expects.

On the other hand, Braylon knows exactly who he is after living on his own and losing his father. He also has the uncanny ability to see Denz for exactly who Denz is at his core, and their fake relationship serves as the means by which Denz can figure out what Braylon has known all along.

This is a wonderful example of standard tropes (second chance love, fake dating), done in a way that serves, rather than hinders, the story. These are two men who deeply care for one another, and who are willing to be the best version of themselves to help the other achieve whatever they want most. Add in the perfect platonic life mate best friend, a loving, if judgmental family, intimidatingly successful sister, and this book is 24 "Carter" Gold.