Page 47 of The Harder You Fall (Rixon Raiders 3)

“Because of your ex?”

“Among other things.”

“You’re still hung up about the race thing? Because I’m telling you, no one will bat an eye if the two of you hook up.”

But they would.

Asher was a white privileged athlete, with good grades and a bright future ahead of him. A future I was almost certain the town wouldn’t want tainted by their beloved Raider hooking up with the poor Latina girl from the hood.

“I’m not getting into this again.” I sighed, resuming packing my bag. “I’m going home for a couple of days to see my mom and friends. Some space might do us good.”

“Does Asher know about this?”

“I don’t need his permission, Flick.” My tone was defensive.

“I’m not suggesting you do. But you’ve got to see it from his point of view. It looks like you’re running.”

“He said the same thing.” I pressed my lips together.

“At least explain it to him. Otherwise, he’s likely to think you’re running back to your ex.”

“I would never—”

“I know that and you know that, but he doesn’t know that.”

“Fine,” I conceded. “I’ll text him.”

“Good. Then hurry up and do whatever you need to do so you can get back here and we can celebrate.”

“We’re celebrating?”

“Hells yeah,” she shrieked. “This is huge. And perfect. We can all hang out now without anyone feeling left out and New York will be even better once you and Asher—”

“Whoa, slow down there. I’m not sure where this thing with Asher is going to go, Flick.”

“Oh hush, you want him. He wants you. What’s to figure out?”

If only life were that easy.

“Please don’t say anything to anyone, not yet.” My expression turned serious. “I’m not ready for anyone to know yet. That means Jason too.”

“Can I at least tell Hailee? She’ll be so happy for you.”

“Felicity,” I groaned.

“Fine.” She held up her hands. “My lips are sealed. You deserve to be happy, Mya, with someone who will treat you right.”

Her words hit me right between the chest, but I brushed them off. “I need to finish packing. Are you going to help or keep up the Dr. Phil routine?” My brow rose.

“Hey, I only care about you.”

Stopped dead in my tracks by her admission, I gave her a sad smile. “I know, I’m sorry. I guess I’m more nervous about going home than I thought I would be.”

“So, don’t go.”

“I have to,” I said defiantly. “It’s just something I have to do.”

It was over an hour’s ride to the city. I’d stuffed in my earbuds and hit play on one of my favorite playlists. It didn’t distract me enough though and before I knew it, I’d opened my chat history with Asher, re-reading our most recent messages.