Three
Fallon
M y dorm and its rooms are larger than I thought they’d be. Even having to share with two other girls in the suite, I have plenty of space for all my things and then some.
As I’m unpacking, the main door swings open. Two girls my age come barging in, laughing and carrying on about some boys they’ve already seen on campus. My eyes roll of their own volition. I didn’t come here to play, maintaining my grades will always be the most important thing on my list. Guys aren’t even on my radar at this point.
“You must be Fallon,” the tall, athletic blonde holds out her hand. Nodding, I shake her hand.
“I’m Rowyn and this is Lyndsy.” She points to the auburn-haired girl, who steps up to shake my hand as well.
“I picked this room since no one was here yet. Hope that’s okay?” I eye them both for any annoyance, but find none.
“Oh, that’s cool. They’re all the same anyways,” Lyndsy peeks behind me at the posters and such that I’ve already plastered to the walls.
“Wow, you must have gotten here early to have already put so much away,” Lyndsy muses.
“Yeah, I wanted to get a head start,” I reply, smiling. “Plus, I figured it would be easier to settle in before things get too hectic.”
Rowyn nods in agreement. “Smart move. It’s always a madhouse on move-in day. Need any help?” The question swirls around in my mind for a moment.
I hesitate, then nod. “Sure, that would be great. Thanks.”
As we start sorting through my things, the conversation flows easily. Rowyn and Lyndsy chat about their hometowns, their majors and their excitement for the upcoming semester. Despite my initial reluctance, I find myself warming up to them. Maybe having roommates won’t be so bad after all.
“So, what’s your major?” Lyndsy asks, as she helps me hang up some clothes.
“Psychology,” I reply, feeling a sense of pride. “I’ve always been fascinated by what makes people tick.”
Rowyn’s eyes light up. “No way! That’s my major too! We’re going to have so much to talk about,” she squeals, jumping up and down.
Lyndsy laughs. “Looks like you two are going to be study buddies. I’m majoring in business, so I guess I’ll be the odd one out,” she sighs, as her expression turns into a frown.
“Is business not what you want to study?” I ask hesitantly.
She chews on her lip, then shakes her head. “I’m expected to take over the family business one day. Lucky me.” I nod, but get back to work. I don’t really have a response to that.
As we continue unpacking, I realize that maybe, just maybe, I can balance my studies with a bit of socializing. These girls seem nice and it might be good to finally have some friends to lean on during the tough times.
“Hey, do you want to come to a party with us tonight?” How the hell have they already scoped out a party happening tonight?
“I’m not really into parties. Maybe next time.”
“No! You have to come. It’s supposed to be huge, plus it can be roommate bonding time.” Lyndsy nods in agreement.
“Come on, Fallon, classes don’t start until next week.” I let out a sigh, knowing I need to make friends with these girls since I don’t know anyone else here, but I’m not particularly the social type.
“Fine. Come get me when it’s time to go.” Both of them jump in excitement and start talking a mile a minute about what to wear. Of course, my antisocial ass would be paired with social butterflies. The girls head to their bedrooms while I’m left wondering why the hell I agreed.
Picking up my phone, I put on some music to drown out the nerves. I never went to parties in high school because I was consumed with my studies, so this will be my first dive into college life.
‘Sleep Token’ blares through my speakers as I spend the next couple of hours putting the finishing touches on my room.
The sun is setting when I hear a knock on my door. Rowyn peeks her head in, then opens the door fully.
“Wow, you got more done than we did,” she chuckles, looking around. She’s since changed from her jeans to a short black skirt and strappy heels.
“Yeah. I wanted to get everything settled. I hate living out of a suitcase,” I reply.
“Same. I did get my clothes put up, but not much else.” Lyndsy walks in, wearing a tight green dress that accentuates her curves. I definitely don’t have anything like that in my closet.
“I love the dress, Lyndsy,” I mention before I pick up my phone to lower the music.
“Oh, you don’t have to be so formal. I usually go by Lynds, and thank you. What are you wearing tonight?” I look down at my cutoff Jean shorts and black band shirt, knowing this outfit probably won’t fly with them.
“Haven’t thought about it,” I shrug, doing a mental check of everything I brought with me.
“I have just the thing.” Before I can protest, she’s out of the door, leaving Rowyn smiling.
“She loves dressing up, using any occasion to wear heels.” I wring my hands together, feeling uncomfortable all of a sudden. I’ve never been a girly girl. My wardrobe consists mainly of T-shirts, shorts and leggings. I guess I skipped that stage and went straight to fishnets and combat boots.
“I didn’t really bring anything for parties,” I confess, as I sift through my closet.
“That’s what I’m here for,” Lyndsy chimes in behind me. She’s holding a little black dress in one hand and heels in the other. The last time I wore a dress was to my grandmother’s funeral. She must see the expression on my face, because she backtracks her statement.
“You don’t have to wear it if you’re not comfortable,” she says gently. “But I think you’d look amazing in it. Just give it a try?”
I hesitate, then nod slowly. “Alright, I’ll give it a shot.”
She tosses me the dress and my fingers run along the cool silk. I’m not the shy type, so I pull my shorts down and toss my shirt onto my bed. The dress is tight but I pull it over my curves with ease. The material stretches across my cleavage, accentuating them more than my old t-shirts ever could. As I turn, the girls both whistle and gush over how well it fits.
“OH MY GOD, I knew it would be perfect for you! You look so edgy with your tattoos and blue hair! I love it!” Lyndsy pulls me in front of the mirror and spins me around so I can see every angle. I have to admit, it makes me feel sexy. It reminds me of lingerie with the black lace design and I can’t believe I’m contemplating wearing this in public.
“Wow, you look incredible!” Rowyn exclaims. “What do you think?”
“I say…fuck it,” I chuckle, as I slide on the shoes, wobbling a bit before catching my balance. It will be a miracle if I don’t bust my ass in these tonight.
“See? I told you,” Lyndsy adds with a grin. “You’re going to turn heads tonight.” I glance at myself in the mirror, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. Maybe this new chapter can be about more than just studying. Maybe it’s also about stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things.
“That’s the spirit. Now, on to hair and makeup!” Rowyn exclaims.
An hour later, we are walking across campus to the fraternity that’s hosting the party. Lyndsy curled my long hair into waves, while Rowyn created the perfect smokey eye. I have to admit, they definitely know what they’re doing.
“Where did you hear about this party?” I ask Lyndsy, as we pass several groups of mingling students.
“My brother goes here too. He’s a junior and he might have let it slip where he would be tonight,” she smiles.
“So, is everyone invited or are we crashing?” I really hope it’s not the latter. It’s already been a hell of a day. I don’t want to add to it by being thrown out of a party.
“Don’t worry, we’re definitely invited,” Lyndsy reassures me. “These parties are open to everyone. It’s kind of a tradition to kick off the semester.”
Rowyn nods. “Yeah, it’s a great way to meet people and have some fun before classes start. Plus, I heard the music and drinks are top-notch.”
I feel a bit more at ease knowing we’re not crashing.
“Yeah, the swim team parties are legendary,” Rowyn chimes in. I’ve heard about the swim team. Frampton U is known for their all star swimmers, but I didn’t think I’d be thrust into their presence so soon.
The large white colonial house looms in the distance, its grandeur almost intimidating. The bass thumping from inside reverberates through the night air, growing louder with each step. Our heels clack against the sidewalk, a rhythmic counterpoint to the music. As we approach, the front doors stand wide open, inviting a steady stream of people to come and go as they please. Somehow, that open invitation eases my anxiety; knowing I won’t be trapped in an unfamiliar, enclosed space brings a small comfort.
My stomach churns with unease as I hear splashes coming from the back of the house. Of course there’s a pool here. I should have known, but I was preoccupied with attending my first party. My strides slow, making Rowyn and Lyndsy look over their shoulders.
“Everything okay?” Lynds asks. My hands shakily rub down the soft silk on my dress. They both back up and slip their arms through mine.
“How about we stick together?” Rowyn interjects.
I blow out a breath. “Yeah,” I agree. “Thanks.” I’m resolved to stay inside at all costs.
We climb the stairs alongside a few other students, the anticipation palpable. Lyndsy glances back at me with a reassuring smile as we step inside. The music is loud, but not unbearable and thankfully it’s not the overplayed pop hits from the radio. At least someone here has good taste in music.
As we step inside, the spacious foyer is alive with energy. The grand chandelier casts a warm glow over the polished white marble floors, which are now dotted with groups of people chatting and laughing. The walls, adorned with tasteful artwork, seem to vibrate with the bass of the music.
To the left, the cozy living room is a hub of activity. Plush sofas and armchairs are occupied by students deep in conversation, while others stand around the marble fireplace, drinks in hand. The open floor plan allows the lively atmosphere to flow seamlessly into the dining area, where the long wooden table has been repurposed as a buffet, laden with snacks and drinks.
“Let’s grab a drink, then we can make our rounds.” I nod as Rowyn grabs my hand, leading us through the throng of dancing bodies. No one pays us attention as we navigate the maze of people.
The kitchen is a bustling scene, with people gathered around the large island, mixing drinks and sharing stories. The modern stainless steel appliances and granite countertops gleam under the bright lights, adding a touch of sophistication to the party. It looks like an actual bar with bottles of every kind of liquor imaginable, mixers and even several kegs off to the side.
Before I can grab a solo cup, someone pops up behind the counter. He rises to his full height, towering over me even in my heels.
“What can I get you ladies?” he asks, his eyes moving up and down Lyndsy and Rowyn before landing on me. A crooked smile crosses his lips as he leans closer, inching into my personal space. This guy is a poster boy for red flags.
“I’ll take a beer,” I say, then I look over at the girls who are smiling at the attention I’m receiving. I admit I normally don’t get noticed, but I’d rather not get the attention of a campus playboy.
He leans back, then looks over at my roommates. “And for you?”
“Surprise us,” Lyndsy smiles and flutters her lashes.
“My pleasure, doll.” His deep voice drips with slimeball vibes. Hopefully, Lynds isn’t really flirting with this guy.
She giggles as I pull her away. “Lynds, he’s a total creeper. Please, tell me you see it.”
“But he’s so hot, Fal!” She shimmies away from me and takes her drink. I know everyone will make their own mistakes, but I hope hers won’t be this guy.
“Here, gorgeous,” he winks. I take my cup and down half the beer. The bitter taste coats my tongue, making me want to gag. For my first alcoholic beverage, I’d say it sucks. I never had the time to go to parties when I was in high school, so this is my first taste of teenage rebellion and it’s shittier than I expected. No matter how much my friends tried to persuade me back then, I stood firm. I take another gulp, cringing at the sour taste, but it doesn’t stop me from drinking. If anything, it’ll help make this night bearable.
Lyndsy and Rowyn, drinks in hand, head towards the makeshift dance floor where a crowd is already swaying to the music. The living room has been cleared of furniture to create space for dancing and the pulsating lights add to the party atmosphere.
“Come on, Fallon! Dance with us!” Rowyn calls out, her voice barely audible over the music. I’m concentrating too much on not spilling my drink and balancing my weight in these heels to do any dancing, so I slink off to the side. I find a spot near the wall where I can keep an eye on them. Sipping my beer, I scan the room and am surprised with the elegance of this house. I mean damn, this place is basically a mansion.
Some are dancing, while others are chatting in clusters and a few are playing drinking games at the dining table. The atmosphere is electric, but I feel like an outsider looking in.
I feel his heated gaze on me before I see him. My head turns slowly as the guy from the quad descends the stairs. Girls begin fawning over him, but his eyes never leave mine. The arrogant stormy blues feel like they’re burning my skin. I take a sip from my empty cup, using it as a distraction to look away.
My heart races as I try to steady my breathing. Why is he looking at me like that? I glance back at Lyndsy and Rowyn who are lost in the music, completely unaware of my internal turmoil.
The music slows and there’s a lull in the crowd. Without looking back, I move away from the wall and hopefully far from the asshat I ran into earlier. A large hand grips my wrist, holding me in place.
“And where do you think you’re going?” His deep gravelly voice skims across my skin, sending a shiver down my spine. Deciding not to give a response, I twist my hand from his grasp and duck through a crowd of people to get to the kitchen. I pause for a moment, trying to decide whether I need another drink or to get out of this house altogether. At the last second, I decide another drink is needed, because I’m not letting this jerk get to me.
I hear loud cheering behind me and I roll my eyes in response.
“Remy! Remy!” Several girls call out. That must be the bastard’s name. It sounds as pretentious as he is.
“Un-fucking-believable,” I mutter under my breath. The kitchen is mostly empty now. Mr. Red Flags must be entertained elsewhere. At least that’s one less asshole I have to deal with. I grab the closest bottle of booze that I recognize from my father’s old collection, pour a good bit into my cup and down it in one go. The amber liquid burns my throat like acid, but I can already feel a warm sensation spreading through my body.
I’m going to need more if I’m going to endure this night. The nozzle to the keg is unoccupied, so I fill my cup to the brim. As I take another sip, the warmth spreads, dulling the edges of my anxiety. I lean against the counter, watching the ebb and flow of people around me. The music picks up again and the house vibrates with energy.
As I turn, some of my drink sloshes out when I hit the same hard body. The universe can go fuck itself with this shit.
“Seems like someone needs to teach you some manners,” I huff, taking a step back. He grins, then grabs my drink, finishing it in one gulp. Crumbling the cup, he tosses it in the trash without taking his eyes from mine.
“I thought I told you to watch where the fuck I’m going,” he muses, as he presses me against the counter.
“Yeah, and I said you could go fuck yourself.” I try to slide under his arms, but he closes them, caging me in.
“I warned you that your mouth would get you in trouble,” he tsks.
“Is that right?” I peer around the handsome prick at his adoring fans. “Looks like your little groupies need some attention.”
He glances over his shoulder at the crowd of admirers, then back at me with a smirk. “They can wait. I’m more interested in you right now.”
I roll my eyes, trying to hide my discomfort. “Well, I’m not interested in being part of your fan club.”
He tilts his head back and laughs as he runs his hand through his dark brown hair. Why do the twatwaffles have to be hot as hell? My fingers itch to trace along the angular curve of his jaw and down the strong column of his neck. Fallon, get a grip .
He leans in closer, his breath warm against my ear. “Who said anything about being a fan? I think you’re more than that,” he quips with a knowing smile. I feel like he read where my mind just went, making me want to punch his perfect face. I need to get out of here and out of his proximity.
“Well, I’d say this has been fun but…it hasn’t, so if you’ll excuse me…” I motion for him to move to the side, but he remains firmly planted before me. His large hands close in tighter around my waist as he presses his body into mine. His fresh, woodsy cologne assaults my senses, causing a momentary fog and lapse in judgment. I stay planted for a moment, staring into the bluest eyes I’ve ever seen.
“Are you always this sarcastic with people you’ve just met?” he challenges.
“Not at all. Just with overconfident dickwads,” I smirk. He growls in frustration, and the sound reverberates through my body, sending goosebumps across my skin. Remy leans in closer, ghosting his warm breath along my neck.
“Oh, I’ll show you exactly what this dick can do.” His threat lingers on his lips as he inches away from me. Before I can respond, Rowyn comes to my aid and I breathe a sigh of relief.
“I’ve been looking for you, Fallon. Lyndsy wants to go out by the pool. Wanna join?” At the mention of the pool, memories of that day surface in my mind and I can feel myself swirling around and around in the unforgiving ocean. Fear grips at my chest, making it hard to breathe. She must see the hesitation in my eyes, because she speaks up.
“It’s totally fine if not,” she shrugs her shoulders.
I force a smile, grateful for her understanding. “Thanks, Rowyn. I think I’ll stay inside for now.”
“Actually, I think that’s a great idea, Fallon .“ He smiles, like the cat that got the mouse. Of course he picked up on my name. Why of all people am I on his radar? Just because I hurt his pride earlier? He moves away, but grabs my hand to pull me along. I dig my heels into the floor, but the effort is futile.
“I’m not going outside,“ I stress. Something akin to amusement flickers across Remy’s face, but it’s gone in an instant, replaced with determination. I know he can sense my fear. It’s radiating from me in waves. Instead of listening to me, he lifts me over his shoulder in one fluid motion and begins heading outside.
“Put me the fuck down, you asshole!” I scream, but he only laughs. Kicking and screaming have zero effect on him. In fact, I think it spurs him on. The partiers split ways, allowing the king of the house to come through. No one tries to come to my rescue, and I feel my anxiety rising, tears threatening to spill.
“Didn’t I tell you that your mouth was going to get you in trouble? Well, you’re about to cash the check you wrote,” Remy slaps my ass, and my cheeks flame from embarrassment. This dress is too short for the position I’m in. And I’m not even going to let my mind wonder why the hell his hand felt so good there.
“Remy! Let me down, I swear…” I trail off when I see the glistening water of the pool. Fear clogs my throat, making my muscles tense. I lose the fight as I prepare for the inevitable.
“I bet her fat ass will drown,” someone laughs, then more people start laughing and yelling for him to throw me in. A crowd forms around us, and everyone is cheering him on at my expense. Tears spill down my cheeks as I shakily cling to his body. The mascara burns my eyes, making my vision blurry. I wish I could see Lyndsy or Rowyn.
“Please,” my voice quivers.
“Dunk her! Dunk her! Dunk her!” The crowd begins to chant, and I can feel the tension in my body rise to an all-new level.
“Come on, Remy. Throw her in! Show the bitch who you are,” a male voice booms beside us. I glance over to see Mr. Red Flags leading the crowd. A sadistic grin forms on his face when he looks over to me. My stomach curls and vomit begins to rise.
“Fuck off,” Remy growls, and for a moment everyone quiets. He slides my body down his front, placing me on my feet. Somewhere along the way I lost a heel, so my balance is off, especially after being upside down.
“What’s the matter, Remy? Going soft?” the same asshole eggs him on.
My body shakes as I attempt to straighten my dress, when suddenly firm hands grasp my shoulders.
In a flash, I’m gulping for air as the water around threatens to pull me under. As I fall backwards, my head hits something and the pain radiates through my skull. Water fills my lungs and blackness falls over my eyes. The irrational fear overwhelms me, carrying away my ability to swim. My childhood incident left me permanently scarred, both physically and mentally. I feel my body sink deeper and deeper into the abyss, and my mind goes back to that day. That fateful day when everything changed in an instant.
Darkness collides with my mind and I drift off, knowing I’m not strong enough to save myself this time.