Ruby’s POV

Austin asked me to ride on his motorcycle. I was very nervous, but I walked with him to where his bike was, and I hopped on the bike with him. He gave me a helmet and told me to hold him tight.

The helmet felt heavy and awkward on my head, and my heart pounded as I slid onto the seat behind him. My arms shook as I wrapped them around his waist, gripping his jacket.

The moment the engine rumbled to life, I jumped a little, but Austin glanced back and said, “Just lean into me if ...