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One of Them Girls

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Xavier
I moved all the way to Texas to start a new life. Move on from the girl who fell for her brother’s best friend.
What I didn’t plan on was her. She blew in like a Texas Tornado, spinning my life out of control.
I gave my heart freely once and was burned.
They say everything happens for a reason, but they never said it would be easy.

Cassi
Gripped by mistakes of my past, all I want is to move on with my life. I wanted desperately to come to terms with my past while having a better future.
Then he showed up. It started as a small favor, but soon turned into so much more. Who knew I would find someone who could make me forget.
Secrets aren’t meant to be kept, and soon I spiral out of control.
They say learn from your past and move on, but can the past really stay in the past?

ebook

Published March 15, 2021

25 people are currently reading
133 people want to read

About the author

Cala Riley

51 books633 followers
Cala Riley, better known as Cala and Riley, are a pair of friends with a deep seated love of books and writing. Both Cala and Riley are happily married and each have children, Cala with the four-legged kind while Riley has a mixture of both two-legged and four. While they live apart, that does not affect their connection. They are the true definition of family. What started as an idea that quickly turned into a full-length book and a bond that will never end.

Check out our linktree for more information:
https://linktr.ee/authorcalariley

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5 stars
38 (42%)
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32 (35%)
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15 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Dora Koutsoukou .
2,171 reviews664 followers
April 3, 2021
3 ❤️❤️❤️⭐️s❣️

A very sweet na romance read!

Cassi and Xavier were in their freshman year at the same college when they met. Both of them had baggage that could fill a jet airliner and then some.
But they were brought together by the pain and insecurities the two of them were carrying.

I enjoyed how their characters and their relationship developed, first as friends and then as a couple. Their story was not that easy since both of them had been hurt in the past, for different reasons.

The story was very well written, dual pov, slow burn and with some drama.
Profile Image for Pick a Book.
464 reviews105 followers
March 16, 2021
Soooooo cute! First time reading a book by Cala Riley and I enjoyed a lot. I loved the cover and the blurb and thank God to my curiosity that made me choose this one to read. It was light, fun, romantic and with wonderful characters. I loved it.
___
Acabei de ler esse livro hoje e foi taaaaao fofo! Primeira vez lendo um livro da Cala Riley e gostei muito. Amei a capa e a sinopse e graças pela minha curiosidade que fez fez escolher esse livro pra ler. Foi leve, divertido, romântico e com personagens maravilhosos. Amei.
Profile Image for Ashley Estep The Art of Reading .
787 reviews37 followers
March 5, 2021
One of Them Girls is exactly what I would expect from Cala and Riley! I've needed Xavier's story since I read him in Unapologetically. I loved him from the minute I read him but never wanted him with Tinsley. You do not need to read Unapologetically to read One of Them Girls.

Xavier Walsh and Cassi Davis meet at the first party of the school year for each. Cheesy? Maybe. Perfect for them? Yes! Xavier just happened to be in the right place at the right time to play fake boyfriend to a gorgeous stranger.

Both have a past that make them how they are and shape their way of thinking. Xavier is the sweet, with a splash of asshole. Cassi is sweet, and guarded. Their relationship was fantastic and frustrating to watch develop. I wanted to smack each of them.

I loved each of the characters in this book. The growth of both Cassi and Xavier was exactly what I want in a book. The ups and downs and mistakes made only added to their growth and development. The side characters were just as important as Cassi and Xavier. Each one was there for a reason. I also loved the appearance of some of the Brighton Academy crew.

One of Them Girls is a sweet, kind of angsty, friends to lovers romance. Xavier and Cassi's story was messy and perfect. Cala and Riley just have a writing style that draws me in from start to finish. OOTG is another 5 star, must read from Cala Riley and just another reason why they are a one click author for me! I can't wait to see what they give us next.

Profile Image for Suzanne.
2,633 reviews43 followers
March 15, 2021
This is one of those books that will have you fully engrossed right from the start. Both Xavier and Cassi have a lot of baggage from their past. But these two just have that connection that makes you want to smile. I think what I really adored about this one is the build up of their relationship. There are bumps in the road that both need to deal with but overall, this was an amazing read! This is the first time I have read this author and I will be going back for more!
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,296 reviews6 followers
March 15, 2021
Xavier sees a girl in need of rescuing and he steps in to play the role of her boyfriend, not realizing this one nice little gesture is about to change the direction his life. It was one good deed, but the moment he meets his fake girlfriend Cassi he can't help but be taken with her. Her beauty draws him in, but it's her caring and quiet personality that speaks to his heart. He can tell she is carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders, and he wants to be the one to help her lighten the load, be the friend with a shoulder for her to lean on.

They settle on being just friends, but after they really delve deep into each other's lives and see who the other really is, they begin to realize there is far more than friendship there. But both have been burned by love in the past, and neither are ready to make that leap again... or are they?

One of Them Girls is a story of healing, second chances, finding love, friendship, and letting go. These two come together under false pretenses, but it's the hurt they see in each other's eyes that draw them two one another. Both are running from pasts that haunt them, and in each other they find the friend they didn't really know that they needed. Seeing them embrace this new friendship in their lives was uplifting, and then to see the love start to blossom between them filled me with hope. It was evident that running from their pasts wasn't the best idea since it managed to follow them, but it was their union that gave them the courage to face it. This was such a beautifully penned love story, it wasn't an easy fall. But once they found the courage to just let go and let love lead the way conquering their demons became a whole lot easier. If you like emotional love stories that squeeze your heart then this one may just be the perfect read for you, it's heartfelt words will get ya from the very first page!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Paperbeautiful.
382 reviews11 followers
March 11, 2021
Oh Xavier, you just became my new book boyfriend!

Xavier just moved to Texas to escape his old life. He is trying to move on from the girl that broke his heart when he meets Cassi at the first party he goes to. Cassi needs a fake boyfriend and Xavier is the man for the job...love how they first meet! Xavier and Cassi decide to try and be "just friends" but their is no denying the tension between the two. As they get to know each other on a deeper level they both realize that they have feelings for each other.

This book is not your typical college romance. Both of the main characters have emotional baggage. Xavier feels like he will always be second best after want happen to him in the past, and Cassi is struggling with the recent death of her brother. Both of them have strong feelings for each other and want to be together, but their individual baggage is weighing them down.

The character growth with Xavier and Cassi is beautiful. They both learn how to overcome what has happened to them in their own way, it is heart-breaking but so beautiful. Xavier is the perfect man. He is patient, caring, kind...he doesn't want to rush things because he know Cassi is struggling. Cassi is a firecracker and I love it. She says what is on her mind, and does not hold back. Xavier is bringing her back to life and she is scared to death.

This is a beautiful story that will make you feel all the feels. This is one of those stories that you wish was longer. Now can Jake and Rebecca have a book as well, please!?!?!

HEA: Yes
Cheating: No
Couple Separation: Yes, but it had to happen
OW/OM Drama: Yes, but well baggage
Profile Image for Shay.
768 reviews6 followers
August 24, 2023
I have been reading book after book this year, but I've steered away from college or high school romances as much as possible. I've just been wanting characters that are older. The books I've been leaning toward are usually darker, and I prefer older characters now. But this amazing author duo reached out to me and recommended some of their books. This one is standalone, and it sounded cute, even though it is about college students. I fell hard for this one the second I picked it up. I don't know why it captivated my attention so hard. I loved the banter between the characters and seeing them be friends and start college with these big plans. The second they get there, they meet, become friends, and are inseparable, and it is just adorable! Xavier and Cassandra got to the point where they had to reevaluate their plans and decide whether to stick to being only friends or cross that line and become more. It's my favorite friends to lovers that I've read this year, at least so far.
This one is a good palate cleanser if you tend to read heavy books that carry a lot of dark content, like me. I do really wish that Jack and Rebecca had their own book. They were just so cute, and it was always so much fun when we got to hang out with them. Plus, I'm a huge sucker for books that use their titles somewhere in the book. One of Them Girls appears quite in the story because Jack quickly points out Cassandra is one. If Xavier isn't careful, he will end up with her because she's not a fling.
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
2,939 reviews57 followers
March 13, 2021
'One Of Them Girls =
Down to earth, can hang with the boys, and is just as likely to chop your balls off than kiss you.'


If like me your go-to authors are Kaylee Ryan and Kristen Proby when you want a guaranteed swoon-worthy read, that has just the right amount of kick to it then you can add Cala and Riley to that list, 'One of Them Girls' puts them squarely in that arena. Xavier and Cassi's story is one of those books that once started you won't put down until the end. Well deserving of a 5⭐️review.

We have meet Xavier before in Unapologetically, he was the guy that was in love with the girl who was in love with someone else. Although now best friends with Tinsely he has moved across the country to Texas to go to school to start over, he wasn't expecting to bump into and feel an instant attraction to Cassi, but sometimes fate has other ideas. Only trouble is that Cassi is dealing with a recent tragedy that she hasn't fully come to grips with. Xavier and Cassi's journey isn't going to be an easy one, as both have issues that they need to fully pull the band-aid off before they can truly be what each other need.

"I've always been yours. Even when we didn't know each other, I was yours."


Profile Image for Kylie Taylor.
640 reviews16 followers
May 2, 2022
𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑪𝒂𝒍𝒂 𝑹𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒚

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This is a new adult/contemporary romance. This book was emotionally charged and absolutely held my heart from the very beginning. These are characters that you will never forget. Getting to know them was so easy, and easy to love. The character development was so good throughout this book. Hearing both of the main characters point of view throughout this book was amazing and so crucial to really get in their heads, understanding their pasts and their struggles.
Both Cassandra and Xavier both have complicated pasts, Cassandra still trying to heal from a loss. Both are apprehensive about dating, despite the feelings and attraction they have for one another. Neither are quite healed, yet the more they hang out as friends, the more their feelings grow for one another. Neither admit they want a commitment, but Xavier knows he doesn’t want to give her up, he wants her forever.
In the three months she’s been friends with Xavier, she is smiling again and beginning to learn how to heal. The angst as they navigate how to be with one another is thick, I was so anxious for my HEA.
The authors truly did an amazing job with this entire story, and it was tied together at the end beautifully. Everything about this read was absolutely perfect.
I highly recommend. It was a perfect weekend read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Nikki Pennington.
Author 24 books107 followers
March 8, 2021
I'm not one that usually gets bent out of shape over "book boyfriends" but that changed with Xavier. I loved him so much. He has deserved his happily ever after for a while now, and it was so refreshing to see him finally get it.

I loved Cassi also, even when she was driving me crazy. Cassi had a lot of issues to work through before she could give herself completely to Xavier, and I like her character development was pretty spot on with what she had going on. There were a lot of things she had been through that she hadn't really dealt with until she met Xavier.

I loved that we got to see the Brighton gang again, even if it was just for a short minute, I forgot how much I missed those characters and their stories.

I loved Jack and Rebecca. There is nothing I love more than when the "side" characters are just as enjoyable as the main characters in the book. It always makes for a really well rounded story.

Everything Cala Riley puts out is excellent, but their books just seem to get better and better every time. They have perfected their craft and I enjoy everything they've been putting out.

Overall, this was a top notch romance. It has everything you'd want in a good book and then some. The characters showed growth, there was plenty of steam and pent up sexual frustration, and as usual Cala Riley knocked it out of the park. 5 Stars from me!
Profile Image for Mithra Ghosh.
4 reviews
March 15, 2021
I received an ARC of One of them Girls

Over all rating : 4.5🌟
Hero : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heroine :⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storytelling : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sex scene :1.5/3🔥
Story ending : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope : collage romance
Angst : not much
Darkness : nope
Humour : average
Kink : nope
Romance : high
Sex frequency: average
Special mention: N/A
Trigger wanting: N/A

📌honest review

I loved the book so much .it was quick and an easy read . It’s been a while I read a college romance that doesn’t include sports . So it’s nice change. I loved Xavier and cassi they are so cute and easy to love . They both had their on baggage from past . Xavier spent his whole feel abandon from his family moving to Texas and meeting cassie changed his life better . Cassie was dealing with her lose and Xavier brighten up her world . They were not perfect they had their insecurities to work on and some figuring out to do themselves. And I love jack and Rebecca they were true friends anyone could ask for . The one who call out your bullshit yet stick with you . The story is so heartwarming to read . I didn’t realise it’s reaching it end I wanted to read more about them .
Thankyou so much @author.cala.riley for sending me the ARC
Profile Image for Tristina Brockway.
Author 8 books137 followers
March 6, 2021
After all the dark romance I've read lately, it was so refreshing to come out of the dark and read this story. It's like a breath of fresh air. Not to mention I'm a Kentucky girl living in Tennessee. This story may take place in Texas but it felt like coming home.

The snarky banter between characters had me laughing out loud.

“𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝒘𝒉*𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔.” - 𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒂

“𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝒄*𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆, 𝒔𝒐 𝒘𝒆’𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏." -𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊

Xavier and Cassandra are both such strong brilliant characters. So when you put them together, there's guaranteed fireworks.

The title of the book and the meaning of the name is so perfect once explained. There's plenty of spice to go around if you like that sort of thing. *cough* But you'll definitely need the tissues. For your tears. Geez. Get your mind out of the gutter.

It wasn't enough to fall in love with Avi and Adra, I had to fall for the supporting characters as well. They could have a story all on their own.

This is now one of my favorite books from Cala Riley and I can't wait to see what they give us next!
Profile Image for Keza Campbell.
679 reviews9 followers
March 26, 2022
Okay I'm just going to say right now that Cala Riley are fast becoming my favourite writing Duo!

Xavier and Cassandra meet at a party. Cassi is trying to avoid a complication Xavier steps in and pretends to be Cassi's fake boyfriend.

There is an instant attraction between them and Forever the gentleman Xavier walks Cassi home.
They can't stop thinking about each other but are both working through past issues. So friends it is!

Jealousy, secrets and misunderstandings can ruin relationships.

I loved this book. I must say though I am used to the faster pace from this author Duo. After my first books being the Syndicates series and The first 2 books in The Shadow Crew Series. But I was pleasantly surprised. I have been meaning to read more and I MUST make more time to read the other books. Everyone should.
Xavier and Cassi's book was great. Cassi was dealing with alot when she met Xavier and he helped her move passed most of it.
Their connection was intense and Xavier had a possessive side that was HOT!
Loved it!!
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews182 followers
March 15, 2021
Xavier & Cassi both have some serious baggage that does mess with them in ways, but fate definitely did them a solid when he came to her rescue the first time they came face to face. He's instantly drawn to her but they start out as friends since both have some past demons they're carrying around. It doesn't take too long before they start to come to grips that they have a serious connection which is shooting off sparks but they don't have an easy go of it. Both have trust issues, then there's those life issues that can become obstacles in people's paths but the further they went along, the more I could see that bond really forming into something beautiful. You'll have to hit those one click buttons to see how it all plays out, and trust me, you want to experience it all for yourselves! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 
Profile Image for caffe.and.books (Aimee).
537 reviews53 followers
January 19, 2022
This one had me all in my feels, if you’re reading this because you’re considering picking up this book, DO IT!!!

It took me several hours to come back to this review simply so it made sense. I had every feeling while reading this book. I am not new to this duo so I pretty much already knew I was going to love this BUT I was truly blown away.

These characters are so imperfect it’s absolutely perfect! They each have baggage which the unintentionally carry into their relationship, when I say I was in my feels, I mean every single feeling. If these two felt it so did I. I was 100% on board with them. The development of this story and characters was so well done that I continued to flip the pages until I reached the most perfect ending. I very much enjoyed the supporting characters. Job well done as always!

READ THIS BOOK!!! You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Hayley.
116 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2021
When you read a book and realize it’s everything you needed but didn’t know it. That what these authors have delivered, it’s a real feel good piece of writing.

We first got to meet Xavier in unapologetically. I have wanted his story since then. The relationship between him and Cassie starts off as friends when they meet a party and he presents to be her boyfriend.

Cassie has a lot of emotional baggage with unresolved issues. Which leads to them both reluctant to define any sort of relationship.

Both have past hurt and are guarded. But the character development and growth between Cassie and Xavier is written beautifully.

It’s a slow burn and will drive you crazy with all the back and forth. I would 1000% recommend reading this book. It’s like a breath of fresh air.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
18.8k reviews235 followers
March 14, 2021
This is Xavier and Cassi’s journey. Xavier moves to Texas for a new start as he always felt he would be 2nd best, and Cassi is struggling to deal with the death of her brother. These two meets at the first party of the year, and when Cassi needs a fake boyfriend Xavier steps in. The chemistry between these two is tangible and undeniable, and I loved how their relationship grew from strength to strength, and they overcome the challenges in their path. This is a beautifully written flawless story which is sweet, emotional, heartbreaking, and with secrets, angst, friendships, and love. I was enthralled throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Larissa Rye.
1,319 reviews16 followers
March 7, 2021
I loved Cassi & Xavier’s story. I think it might be my favourite of Cala & Riley’s. Plus I really liked getting to see small glimpses of Finley, Tinsley, Reed & Sage. But I’m thinking this Texas crew might have taken over top spot in my heart. I loved Jack & Rebecca & would love to get their story.

The friendship that developed between these two first is what really made the story special. Both had been hurt before & were still trying to work through so many feelings. I loved every minute of their journey to their happily ever.

One of my fave things though is the reasoning behind the title. So freaking cute. Also the ending was beyond perfect! This is definitely another must read!
Profile Image for ReadingInPyjamas.
642 reviews
March 15, 2021
I enjoyed every minute of this book. Cala and Riley have captivated my attention yet again, with a swoon-worthy and emotional friends to lovers romance.

I adore Cassie; she is sassy, intelligent and seriously funny. As for Xavier, let's just say he is my new favourite cinnamon roll. I wasn't sure how I felt about him when I first met him in the Brighton Academy series, but he definitely stole my heart by the end of this book. Cassi and Xavier make such a cute couple. They bring out the best in each other, even though they both have their own issues and insecurities. What starts off as a chill friendship rapidly develops into a steamy romance. I liked how things flowed between them, and the way their relationship unravelled. The action was fairly paced, with enough drama and sexy banter to keep me engaged in the story. I recommend it!

Profile Image for Louise  O.
823 reviews12 followers
March 15, 2021
One of Them Girls gives us Xavier’s story, one that I have wanted for a long time; he needed to find his HEA.

Xavier was starting fresh, when he meets Cassi he filled in as pretend boyfriend which lead to more and more. But everyone’s story has secrets, will the cards they hold close to their chests be the downfall of them finding forever?

Oh my god, Xavier made me swoon and want to cry; his thoughtfulness had all the feels and made me fall for him even more!

I personally loved this story, Cala & Riley have quickly become a one click author for me; they never disappoint.

Star Ratings; Plot: 5/5 Characters: 5/5 Heat: 5/5 Writing Style: 5/5 Overall: 5/5

Profile Image for Leanne.
725 reviews19 followers
April 3, 2021
I knew when I started the first chapter it would be one of those sweet stories that I couldn't put down and that's exactly what happened. Xavier and Cassi both have pasts that hold them back from their futures, but they still form a bond together. I loved watching both characters grow individually and together. They both have to learn to trust again and only then will their relationship really become what it is meant to be. This is a beautiful story that flows seamlessly and you won't want it to end.
Profile Image for Cindy Fong.
1,922 reviews
May 1, 2022
When you find "one of them girls" then you know you will love them for life. Both Cassi and Xavier at 18 had more baggage to deal with than just starting college. This is a coming of age story with the foundation of a life long love.

I loved the push pull between them (and well as Jack and Rebecca). Cassi is a firecracker, Xavier a gentleman. The angst is heartfelt. Tragedy makes both them wake up and want to be better for each other. And I found myself rooting for them.
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,683 reviews99 followers
May 2, 2022
"When you find ""one of them girls"" then you know you will love them for life. Both Cassi and Xavier at 18 had more baggage to deal with than just starting college. This is a coming of age story with the foundation of a life long love.

I loved the push pull between them (and well as Jack and Rebecca). Cassi is a firecracker, Xavier a gentleman. The angst is heartfelt. Tragedy makes both them wake up and want to be better for each other. And I found myself rooting for them. "
Profile Image for Stefanie.
794 reviews3 followers
April 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It is a fast read with a lot of love and heartbreak. There is a bit of back and forth between Xavier and Cassi. Both come from different past but each hurt by it and trying to move on. Xavier is an amazingly sweet book boyfriend and I just adore him. Cassi is a sweetheart but needs to work on herself to be able to move on with her life! Please give this one a chance, you won’t regret.
Profile Image for Ashley Crimmins.
342 reviews3 followers
May 11, 2022
This was a very sweet book with a lot happening in their first year of college! Both Xavier and Cassie had lived a lot of tragedy before meeting. Both had to work through their tragedy while also forming a relationship.
Profile Image for Sandra.
414 reviews
January 16, 2025
Always wanted to be one of those girls

It's the perfect story I didn't have the loss of my brother but I was always friends with guys. Never able to be good enough to get taken home.
Profile Image for Megan L Thomas.
7 reviews
February 9, 2025
Would’ve been even better if they edited it. They were so many spelling and grammar mistakes. They even had incomplete sentences.
Profile Image for Lauren.
2,523 reviews13 followers
March 15, 2021
Xavier moved to Texas to get away from his old life its a little culture shock. Cassi blows into his life and y'all it was like the perfect storm of chaos. These two become "just friends" which is a joke lol. These two both have some baggage but really I think Xavier struggled more. This was a super sweet emotional read.
Profile Image for Sami.
146 reviews5 followers
September 23, 2024
Went into this book blind didn’t even read the blurb and I loved it so much.

I loved how their relationship went from being friends to lovers. Their individual problems (I don’t want to give it away) were really relatable and as them being collage age they handled it exactly the way I thought they would.

It was a quick and sweet read with some great banter and a good love story!
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
1,824 reviews66 followers
January 24, 2023
Cala and Riley have you wanting Xavier as your "book boyfriend" Xavier has moved away from his parents as he wants to be a teacher & not some big business person. At a frat party one night he is surprised by a very gorgeous girl asking him to pretend to be her boyfriend. Cassi needs a pretend boyfriend and Xavier happens to be right there. Cassie is trying to run away from the demons that haunt her. The sexual tension between the two of them builds over time until they give in but all is not ok.
Will Xavier's past push Cassi away? Will her demons and her past cause problems?
The authors writes a beautiful story of love that tests the hardships of their past and healing by the one you love.
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