I’ve been in love with Katie Walker for as long as I can remember. She was my childhood best friend, and I was addicted to her contagious laugh, fearless attitude, and messy blonde hair that smelled like wild strawberries. We experienced many firsts together, but I hid my true feelings for years—scared I’d lose her forever if things didn’t work out.

After my cousin Gabe moved to our small, southern town, we lost our alone time and became a party of three. Before I could confess how I felt, he swept Katie off her feet and asked her out. Their high school romance led to marriage, and after I learned they were expecting their first child, I drank myself stupid for a week straight.

I pretended to be happy for them, but was dying inside. Gabe was all wrong for her, though I only had myself to blame. So when I caught him cheating on the only woman I’ve ever loved, I snapped and a deadly fight erupted. Before I could comprehend what happened, I was charged with his murder.

Five years later, I’m released from prison and head straight to Katie’s house.
I want to beg for a second chance to be in her life. But after I’ve ignored her letters, denied her requests to visit me behind bars, and pushed her away—she slams the door in my face.

I’ve only ever wanted to protect her, even if she wasn’t mine.
The pain of missing her is nothing compared to losing her for good.
But this time, I’m not holding back.

**Pushing You Away is the first book in the Ex-Con Duet Series by USA TODAY Bestselling Author Kennedy Fox and must be read first.**