Cole and Laila Are Just Friends: A Love Story BY Bethany Turner

Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been best friends since childhood, growing up in the small town of Adelaide Springs, Colorado. Their deep, platonic bond has always been effortless, marked by Laila’s taste-testing Cole’s culinary experiments and Cole being the only person who’s ever seen Laila in her quirky, oversized glasses. Their friendship is a cornerstone of their lives, and they share everything, except their rare, fleeting romantic thoughts about each other.

When Cole discovers a shocking betrayal involving his recently deceased grandfather, he feels compelled to leave Adelaide Springs and start anew in New York City. However, Laila, who cherishes her life in their cozy town, struggles with the idea of losing Cole. She’s deeply rooted in her community and can’t bear the thought of not being able to walk to her favorite person every day.

Despite her feelings, Laila supports Cole’s decision to move, hoping to convince him to stay without admitting her true emotions. They agree to spend one last week together in New York, making a pact to enjoy their time without discussing their future. As they explore the city, their hidden feelings begin to surface, leading to a whirlwind of emotions and undeniable chemistry.

“Cole & Laila” is a slow-burn friends-to-lovers rom-com that combines the charm of When Harry Met Sally with the banter of Gilmore Girls. With a clean, laugh-out-loud narrative, it’s a story about realizing love can grow from the most unexpected places, complete with a fake blind date, a rooftop dance, and the realization that some bonds are meant to be more than just friendship.