Just My Girl by Faith Walsh

Marisol:
I wish I were brave enough to stand up to my mother, reveal what my plans are for me, and not just adhere to her plans, what she expects of me. I don’t think I’m weak, but I wish I had more backbone to fight for me. When I meet Max, he thinks it’s his job to teach me this, to speak up and stand up and get what I really want. I’m the most eager student you’ll ever meet. I want to learn how to ask for what I want most of all: him.

Max:
Marisol is an angel. But if she doesn’t learn how to assert herself, people will just continue to walk all over her. I can’t let that happen to someone who, without even trying, has roused all these notions about cherishing and protecting her. I guess it’s up to me to teach her how to stand up for herself and get what she wants. (Hint: She wants me as much as I do her.)