Page 96 of Rise Above

Looking down at her feet, Aife smiled softly. She

hadn’t even told me how she got involved in her career. “Honestly, when I started my bachelor’s, I wanted to pursue law. I was seemingly far more passionate about law and debate. I took a social work class my first year, and it blew me away! Everything I thought I wanted to do with law, I actually could do with social work, and I fell in love. I graduated in three years and went for my master’s degree on the advanced course which only takes a year.

“The more classes I took, the more I fell in love.

My master’s flew by and then I was licensed and working.” She smiled again, a bright smile. Her smile brightened her entire face; she was so beautiful. Her hazel eyes crinkled when she gave her real grin.

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“I feel like that’s not the full story.” EJ crossed his

arms over his chest. “A class changed your life?”

“And a sport changed yours. That’s the story I’m

willing to share,” Aife said, “In social work, you learn to meet people where they’re at. Perhaps you should try that.” There was a teasing tone to her voice.

I smirked at my oldest brother, “Don’t pry, Eaton.”

“Y’all are dating! I have a right to pry!” My brother

threw his hands up in exasperation.

Silence surrounded the living room, echoing within

the vaulted-ceiling room. My heart was racing. I’d repeatedly told my family that Aife was a friend. Briefly, I glanced at her. Her face was pale as she licked her lips. Her bright face had dimmed, masked with the echoes of something I couldn’t name.

“We aren’t dating,” I said softly. “I already told

y’all that.”

AJ looked over at both of us. He took in our clasped

hands and cocked a brow at me. Rubbing a hand down his face, he let out a loud sigh. “James…”

“No,” I said, standing up. Anger hit me at full force.

“No. We aren’t doing this. Y’all know Melody fucked me up. You know I’m still dealing with that, and despite me telling you that Aife and I are just friends, y’all are insistent it’s something more! Enough!” Carefully, I pulled Aife off the couch and walked out of my mother’s house. These were the times I missed Dad the most because he would have calmed us all down.

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Once we were outside, a groan of frustration left my

mouth. My family loved me, but they were extremely aggravating sometimes. Sighing, I ran a hand through my hair as I turned to face Aife.

“Are you alright, Talon?” She placed one of her

small hands on my elbow. It steadied my pounding heart.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Sorry about them. They’re just

really excited that I’m close to my old self. My ex really fucked with me, and my family thinks we’re a couple because I’m affectionate with you.” My hands ran through my hair again, pulling at my curls.

“Talon, relax. It didn’t bother me. They’re curious!