The Highland Crush

Iona Stewart, the girl I grew up with, is back in Bannock, and it's like a fresh wound has opened up.

Memories of our time together-our childhood mischief, the twilight talks by the loch, the nights we spent wrapped in each other's arms-come crashing back.

Things between us couldn't be more different now. She avoids me at all costs. On those rare occasions we do speak, she keeps it civil, for the sake of our families, but she can't hide the disdain from her eyes.

She has every reason to hate me. Six years ago, I broke her heart. That day I lost not just my best friend but the only woman I've ever loved.

I've spent years at the gym, bulking up, trying to sweat out the guilt and regret. But it hasn't worked, and having her here again-and just across the street-is a special kind of torture.

I want her back. I need her back. But how do you win over the girl whose heart you shattered? And even if she does give me a second chance, do I deserve it?