He’s always been my safe place.

For as long as I can remember, Ansel has been my protector.

In middle school, he was the tall, strong, boy who kept my bullies at bay.

In high school, he was the only one brave enough to stand up to my stepdad.

That was when I realized I loved him.

I almost told him, too.

But then he left.

He joined the Marines and vanished from my life, leaving me behind in our small town.

I thought I’d never see him again, but now he’s back, and the moment I lay eyes on him, I know that I’m still completely, hopelessly in love with him.

Now, if only I can find the courage to tell him.

She’s always been my world.

Leaving Noelle after high school was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I had to.

I needed to prove to myself that I was worthy of her.

Now, I’m back, and I’m done waiting. I’m going to claim what’s always been mine.

So, I come up with a plan and invite her to my cabin for the weekend, ready to show her exactly how perfect we are together.

She thinks I’m going to leave again, but I’m here to stay.

She’s mine, and I’m not letting her go.