Already Gone

Falling in love is easy...

New Hope, South Carolina is my home. It's where I grew up, got into trouble, and fell in love for the first time. Scarlett Kincaid was more than the girl next door, she was my best friend, until she decided that small town life wasn't for her.

The girl I used to fish with down at the creek is now the biggest name in country music, and I haven't seen her since she left. Until today when she sped through town in her fancy car. One look at her big brown eyes was all it took to stir up a whole slew of emotions. Emotions I'd long ago buried and sure as hell don't have time for.

It's the aftermath that's hard...

There are two things in my life that matter. My music, and my dad. Twelve years ago, I packed a bag and chased my dream. I never planned to return home, but my father needs me, and he always comes first. So, I cut my tour short and came home, despite having a sister who hates me, and a community that doesn't trust me. And then there's Tucker Andrews.

When he propped an arm on the roof of my car, pulled down his sunglasses and flashed his police badge, I nearly swallowed my tongue. Gone is the lanky boy who used to throw rocks at me and pull my pigtails. Tucker is now a six-foot package of brawny, sexy man wrapped in more muscle than I have hit singles. Did I mention he's a cop and a single dad?

My goal was to help Dad, and get back to my life. But what am I supposed to do when the life that used to strangle me suddenly fits like a glove, and makes me dream of things I never thought I'd have? I don't have room for a man much less love.

Right?

Because it's impossible to hold onto someone who's already gone.