But as we got older, when my feelings for her changed, I realized something. She was mine. Nora was full of sass and had a stubborn streak, but there was nothing that turned me on more. She’s all woman now, innocent and beautiful, and sweet like the candy apples they sell at the fair every summer. And my mouth waters every time I see her. She may be my childhood friend, but it’s time I tell her how much she means to me. It’s time I show Nora that we were meant to be together from day one. Nora Toby Maxwell wasn’t just my friend, he was the man I’d fallen hopelessly in love with. With a big belt buckle, polished cowboy boots, and silver spurs, I’d known him my whole life and had loved him just as long. As an adult now I understand that holding back how I felt was foolish. Life is too short to worry about the what ifs. Time to cross the line and tell Toby how I really felt. Note: This one is for all the safety readers out there! Hope you’re ready for a dual virgin, friends-to-lovers, sugary sweet read! Don’t let the fact it’s a short story deter you … this one will check off all your hopeless romantic boxes!