I screwed up. Big time. I hurt someone, and I hate myself for it. I’m barely eighteen and already completely exhausted. Tired of being haunted by secrets and guilt. My biggest regret, though, is keeping it all from Adam—my best friend, teammate, protector. My everything since I can remember. And how do I repay him? By keeping these secrets locked up inside. Secrets I know would destroy us. But I’m not sure how much longer I can do it. No matter how catastrophic the consequences. Adam Bates He won’t talk to me. He’s never kept secrets from me before. We’re both quiet guys who keep to ourselves. But that’s never applied to each other. I know something is wrong, but my best friend has shut me out. How can I keep him safe if he won’t talk to me? All my life, I’ve taken on this role—doing what’s right, no matter what. Watching out for everyone, on and off the field—especially Zach. And I won’t fail him now when he needs me more than ever. Because this is who I am and what I do... I’m the protector.