The Game You Play (Rixon Raiders 2)

“Hmm, let’s see. Communication, never going to sleep on an argument, and routine.”

“Routine?” I squeaked. “Jesus, Mom, you make it sound so romantic.”

“Baby, your father is about as romantic as that wooden spoon.” She flicked her head to the utensil rack. “But he’s always been there for me, and that’s what really matters. I’d rather have a lifetime of your father than a few months of fire and passion.”

I found it a little sad that she didn’t think you could have both. But who was I to judge? They were happy enough and one hundred percent committed to each other and our family.

“Favorite senior year memory?”

“That one’s easy.” She smiled wistfully. “Prom. It was magical. Just how the movies p

ortray it. Your father bought me a beautiful corsage and drove us to the school gym in his rusty old Buick. We coordinated our outfits and danced the night away with our friends. It was perfect.”

“I bet there was a rockin’ after party?”

Mom laughed softly. “There was none of that back in my day.” I didn’t believe that for a second which could only mean one thing: my parents weren’t invited, or more likely, they refused to go.

“Felicity, is everything okay?” Mom switched direction. “You seem distracted lately and I’m not going to lie, baby, it’s worrying me.”

“I’m fine, Mom.” Except I can’t stop thinking about a guy. A guy I know will break my heart if I give him even half a chance.

“Don’t drop the ball now, okay?” Her expression softened. “A lot of people think once college applications are done, senior year is a chance to let your hair down. But it’s a chance to start thinking about the future, about the kind of person you want to become.”

“Got it, Mom, hair down, future.” Her words left a bitter taste in my mouth.

“You’ve been such a good girl, Felicity. Now Hailee has a boyfriend, I worry you might lose focus. The football team are a bad influence. Athletes get so much handed to them for free but real life isn’t like that.”

“Cameron is a good guy.”

“I’m sure he is, baby.” She gave me a dubious smile. “But you want more out of life than to end up as some trophy girlfriend, don’t you?”

“Whoa, slow down.” My hands went up, my eyes wide. “We’re talking about Hailee and Cameron, not me.”

Mom came over and brushed my bangs from my face. “You’re beautiful, Felicity. Inside and out, and boys will notice that. I only hope that when they do, you choose wisely.”

“Mom, I’m a teenager. We’re supposed to screw up and get it wrong occasionally.” I laughed but it came out all strangled.

“We’re Giles’, sweetie. You know what that means.” The urge to roll my eyes was strong but I remained expressionless as she said, “Planned, prepared, and punctual. That’s all you need in life.”

“Sure thing, Mom. I’m going to head upstairs and do my homework. Get a head start.”

Her face lit up. “That’s my girl. I’ll shout you when dinner is ready.”

With a small nod, I left Mom with her plans and headed for the sanctuary of my bedroom. Inside, I kicked off my shoes, grabbed the folded scrap of paper from my bag, and dropped down on the bed. My list was a mess. Nothing planned or prepared about it. But I couldn’t deny that despite my mom’s unintentional warning, Mya’s additions made my pulse race.

* * *

1. Take up a new hobby Explore alternate career paths

2. Cut class

3. Attend a pep rally - DONE

4. Skinny dip down at the lake Get a tattoo

5. Fall asleep under the stars

6. Go to a party at Asher Bennet’s house Crash a party in style