Acknowledgements

Five years and twelve books later.

Twelve stories that have been told and shared.

And I haven’t done it alone. None if it would have been possible with these fine individuals keeping me sane behind the scenes.

Scott. Hey buddy. Thank you for maintaining your presence in my life. You’re a beacon of light that I follow on my darkest days. I wouldn’t have taken the first step of following my dream without your coaching.

Jo. Thank you for teaching me how to swear properly. Thank you for keeping my heart in check when I let it run wild. Thank you for not letting look like a fool by cleaning up my backwards way of telling stories.

Jamie. Dude. How is it that stalking could ever turn into true love? You’re like a cautionary afterschool special with a much better ending. Your support and ability to read my mind is extraordinary. Thank you for being mine.

Kellcie. You’re texting me right now as I type this. I love that your presence is a constant in my life. I can’t imagine what I’d do without your inappropriate jokes and ridiculously on point wisdom. Thank you for being my friend. Still.

My betas. You guys are the real MVPs. Thank you for tolerating my spastic writing schedule and health interruptions. Thank you for telling when I’ve written chaos and not being afraid to tell me to fix it.

Kati. Peaches. Moonshine. How do I tell you what your friendship has meant to me? Writing this story was especially fun for me because you inspired every ounce of Tessa. I adore you. Stay with me always. #longlive

A.J. Best brother ever. Thank you for being the voice of all my “dudes.” Thank you for listening to my plot bunnies. Thank you for being exactly who you are.

Zack. Your encouragement and belief in my ability is humbling. With everything that’s happened, I can honestly say that you have changed my life. I can’t imagine my life without you in it. I love you an appropriate amount.

Bear. By far the most important thing I’ve ever done is be your mom. You changed my heart the moment you were born. You’ll never know the joy and light you’ve brought into my every day.

Captain Awesome. You’re the one who taught me to run. You take my hand and I know that no matter where the next adventure leads us, we’re going to be fine. Because we’re together. And that’s where we’ve always belonged.

God. You know all the things. Thank you. Forever.