Her Heart Her Terms (Lily and Xavier) novel Chapter 301

"It has to be him!" Rowan was trying to leave a good impression of Xavier in front of Lily.

He pointed to the two race cars parked under the canopy. "In a moment, let Hayden drive, and I'll sit in the passenger seat. Do you know what he's planning to do?"

Lily was perplexed. She had no idea why they were there, why there had to be two cars, or why Xavier was involved.

"You'll find out soon enough." Rowan offered no further explanation, urging, "Hurry up and get Hayden ready. I'll head down to warm up the car." With that, he walked toward Xavier.

Xavier met him halfway, heading toward the canopy, holding a helmet. "Don't tell her I came here just to help."

Rowan was about to take credit, but Xavier cut him off.

"And didn't you say she wouldn't be here?" Xavier's expression darkened. He pressed the helmet against the car and stood beside it, his hawk-like gaze fixed on Rowan.

Rowan was confused. "You're doing a good deed without taking credit? Are you playing the secret admirer? That's so not like you!"

Xavier frowned. "Who said I like her?"

"Heh." Rowan pulled two keys from his pocket and handed one to him. "You don't like her? Then I'll eat dirt while standing on my head."

"I don't."

Xavier's words were firm and resolute. But the moment he said it, an inexplicable ache pierced his heart, and his expression stiffened.

Rowan nearly burst out laughing but held it back. Instead, he slapped the car window twice with exaggerated amusement.

"I may not have chased women myself, but I've seen enough to understand. Secret crushes don't work, especially when there's competition. Keep waiting, and before you know it, she'll have kids running errands for her!"

After bringing Hayden to Rowan, she asked, "Are you sure there's nothing I can help with?"

"No need. Just go up and watch. I'll take Hayden for a quick orientation first." Rowan led Hayden to the passenger seat, secured his seatbelt, and pointed out where the brake and accelerator were located.

Was he going to let Hayden drive? Though Hayden had driven sports cars before, that was in the past.

A flicker of concern crossed Lily's face as she stood frozen, watching Hayden's reaction through the car window.

"I wasn't told I'd see you here." Xavier's voice came from behind her. Worried she might miss his meaning, he unnecessarily added, "Otherwise, I wouldn't have come."

Lily glanced at him briefly before turning her attention back to Hayden. "Then just pretend you didn't see me."

So, he didn't want to see her either. She shifted slightly to the side, creating more space between them.