"Give your heart to a man worthy of the claim." That's been his constant excuse for keeping distance between us. Little does he know that I'm his for the taking. If only he'd have me. Nolan Jasper has been my broody neighbor for almost six years. I've been hopelessly infatuated with him just as long. The bond I have with his little girl only serves to strengthen that hold. Since they moved in that stormy night, I've been trying to restore what was lost.

I would do just about anything for those two. Acting as Nolan's reliable doormat is getting old, though. Especially when he seems incapable of accepting love. I'm finally willing to admit that man is a lost cause. Too broken. Jaded. Withdrawn. Nolan Jasper has pushed me away for the last time.

If only he realized it before I'm already gone.