I should never have touched her. I didn't know she's my best friend's little sister. When I found out... well... My life went off the rails, and we didn't see each other again.

Now three years later, we're in the same small town, and she hates my guts. But when her ex won't take no for an answer, it's me she improbably reaches out to for help.

Sure we can fake a relationship to keep him off her back. We've done it before. Except there's nothing fake about the heat between us. Or the very real threat from my past that's the true reason I ghosted her. Maybe she'll finally give me the chance to explain.

I'll do anything to protect her, even face down her brother for a second chance.