Page 126 of Broken Ties (Rixon High 4)

“You promised.”

“I know but Mom will freak if she knows.”

“Is it such a bad thing that they care?”

“Of course not, but it’s just anemia. It’s not like I’m dying or anything.”

“God, Sofe, don’t say such a thing.”

“Relax.” She grinned at me. “I’m fine.”

We made our way into school and she tugged on my arm. “Oh, there’s Aaron. Are we talking to him or— I guess not.” Pulling me up short, we watched Zara bounce over to him and drape herself over his shoulder. “God, I hate her,” Sofia murmured.

“You and me both,” I said, swallowing over the emotion balled in my throat.

“Well, we can’t avoid them, so head held high, Pops.” She gave me a reassuring smile, and I nodded, rolling back my shoulders.

I could do this.

I had to.

Because whatever had happened between us Friday night was already a distant memory.

A dream that would fade a little bit more every time I saw them together.

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