Cover

BLURB

I’ve been in love with her for two years.

The first time around, I screwed things up. I hesitated and the moment was gone.

I passed when I shouldn’t have.

Not a total loss. I gained a best friend instead of whatever we might have been.

Sydney is hands down the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and I’ll do anything to keep her in my life. Even bury my feelings deep inside.

But one hot summer together at the lake filled with lots of teeny-tiny bikinis and I’m ready to risk it all for a second chance.

It’s time to take my shot.

1

TANNER

Two years ago

“I feel like Cinderella.” My buddy, Datson, spins in a circle, his arms held out to his sides and head tipped back in wonder, in the entryway of The White House, Valley University’s unofficial basketball house, best party spot on campus, and our new digs.

I snort and drop my bag on the tile floor. “It’s a little hard to picture you in a dress, dude.”

“I guess that makes me your fairy godmother then.” Joel skips down the stairs to greet us. His dad, the university president, owns the house, so he basically is our fairy godmother. This place is a palace. “Welcome, guys.”

“This is so dope,” Datson says, still taking it all in like he’s never been here before.

There are only four bedrooms at The White House and being asked to move in is an honor. With the new school year, two of the previous guys graduated, opening up two spots. Joel lives here, as does our other teammate Nathan.

“Wes and Zeke’s rooms are all cleaned out for you guys. We’re having a party tonight, so get settled in and then let’s celebrate.” Joel claps me on the shoulder and then heads off toward the kitchen.

Datson and I go upstairs, stopping briefly to stare inside the half-sized basketball court that we’re now going to be able to use anytime we want. It’s just one of the perks of living here. There’s also a theater room and a back yard with a huge pool and lots of space that’s perfect for parties.

“Sure beats dorm living.” Datson takes a step down the hall. “Which room do you want?”

“I don’t care, man. I don’t plan on spending a lot of time in it when I can be outside in that pool.”