The Wrong Brother

For as long as I can remember, I've had a thing for the girl next door, my best friend's sister.

And for just as long, I've been invisible. I've tried getting over it, dating other women, but no one can compare.

No one even comes close.

I've kept my distance for years, knowing I could never be good enough for someone so intelligent, poised, beautiful, and successful. But now, it might finally be my time. My turn. My chance.

Catherine's newest very high-profile clients are throwing an engagement celebration for her cheating ex and she can't get out of going. She needs a fake date to play emotional buffer, and maybe show she's better off too. And I need a chance to show I'm more to the only woman I've ever wanted.

Catherine could finally truly see me as a man, as an option, an equal.

OR

I could be what she needs for a short window of time only to lose even the fantasy of ever being with her once the party's over.

I don't know if I'm strong enough to take the risk. But something tells me it doesn't matter when weighed against the simple fact that she needs me. She needs me and she asked for my help.

What can I do but agree?

And what are the odds I'll get through this with my heart intact?