Eight
Fallon
T hat motherfucker. I’m equally pissed off and turned on by his dominance. He thinks he can just waltz in here, blow my mind, then leave without a second glance. In the back of my head, Rowyn and Lyndsy’s warning rings out, warning me of the potential consequences of getting involved with someone like him. I need to stay clear of Remington Frampton. I don’t care if he knows how to play my body like an instrument. Nothing good can come from his sudden interest in me. Remy seems to be a force of nature, stirring up emotions that are both thrilling and dangerous.
No matter what Remy throws at me, I won’t let him break my spirit.
I take a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. I can’t let myself get swept up in his games and chaos. I’ve worked too hard to let someone like him derail me. But a part of me, the part that craves excitement and danger, can’t help but be drawn to him. His darkness calls out to mine, like a twisted beacon. I groan as I gather my things and leave the library, determined to put as much distance between us as possible.
The cool air outside is a stark contrast to the heated tension I just escaped. Each step away from the library feels like a small victory, a reclaiming of my control. But even as I walk, I can’t shake the feeling of his eyes on me, the memory of his touch lingering like a ghost. It’s infuriating and intoxicating all at once. Why does he have this effect on me? It’s maddening!
As I walk across campus, I try to think of literally anything other than the campus god. His intensity, his persistence, it’s all too much. I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I need to focus, to remember why I’m here and what I’m working towards. Remington is a distraction, a dangerous one, and I can’t afford to let him get under my skin. I reach my dorm and see the large dent on the door that’s eye level with me. My stomach sinks and without the girls telling me, I know Remy was here. What the hell is his problem? This is a perfect example of the destruction that comes with him.
I swipe Rowyn’s keycard she let me borrow, closing the door quietly behind me. First thing tomorrow, I need to get a new one made and make my way to town to get another phone. I head straight to my room, closing the door behind me. I pull out my books and toss them on my desk next to the window. No matter how hard I try, his presence looms over me, an undeniable force pulling at the edges of my consciousness. The words in my book blur together, replaced by the memory of his touch, his intense gaze. Frustration bubbles up inside me, but also a spark of something else—an undeniable attraction.
The dent in the door needs to be a constant reminder of his intrusion of my mind and body. It should only fuel my resolve to stay away from him. Should is the keyword.
I spend the rest of the evening buried in my books, allowing the words to finally fill my head. Tomorrow, I’ll take back control of my life and keep him at arm’s length.
My alarm rings out through my small room, jolting me awake. I reach for my phone, but then I remember I set my alarm on my computer instead. I shuffle out of bed toward my desk to turn off the horrible sound before it wakes up the whole dorm.
As the silence returns, I rub my eyes and glance at the time. It’s early, but I need to get a head start on the day and all the errands I need to run.
I quietly get dressed and grab my bag, making sure I have everything I need. I write a quick note to the girls about where I’ll be, then place it on the refrigerator with a magnet. As I step out of our dorm, I notice the dent on the door again, a stark reminder of yesterday’s encounter. I shake my head, trying to push the thoughts of Remy aside.
The campus is quiet as I make my way to the administration building. I’m one of the first in line and it doesn’t take long to get to the front desk.
“May I help you?” the student behind the counter asks without looking up.
“Yes, I need to get a new key card made. It’s room 514 in Willowbrook Hall.” The guy’s eyes snap up to mine and for a moment he just stares at me. Uncomfortable with this reaction, I pull out my license and slide it over.
“You need this don’t you?” He blinks a few times, then takes my ID and begins typing away on the computer. I notice his name tag says “Jake” and I wonder briefly if he’s heard the rumors going around school. Of course he has, unless he lives under a rock. I’m sure that’s the reason behind the odd looks. He hands me my ID and my new key card.
“Don’t lose this one. They are $20 to replace, but I waived the fee this time,” he reassures.
“Oh, okay. Thanks.” I place both cards in my wallet, then make my way back out on campus.
With that task done, I head into town to find a phone store. My car sputters the whole way and I wince when I think about what it will cost me to have someone look at it. Buying a new phone is already dipping into the savings I needed to last me a few months.
I find a small phone store and step inside, the cool air a welcome relief from the blaring California heat that accumulated in my car. The clerk greets me with a smile as I explain that I need a new phone.
“You’re in luck. We have a sale going on for the new iPhones that dropped last week. Will you be starting a new account with us?”
“I suppose so since there isn’t a Horizon Wireless close by. I was due for a renewal anyways.” I shrug.
“Great. Which size would you like? And which color?” The salesperson goes through a spiel of the benefits of each device, and my head feels like it might explode with the amount of information he’s throwing at me.
“I’ll go with the plus size in navy, I think,” I murmur, still looking at the variety laid out before me.
“Perfect. Let me go get that for you. There are accessories on the back wall for you to look through since they are fifty percent off with a new device.” He disappears in the back and I wander to the other side of the store to look at the different cases. Instantly, an iridescent purple case comes into view. As I flip it around, a hollowed gothic skull appears on the back and it’s perfect. I choose the right size and take it to the counter. The man comes back and we begin the long checkout process of me signing my life away. At least for the next two years.
Two hours later, I’m leaving with a new phone in hand. Thankfully I know my mother’s number. I’ll have to slowly add other numbers as I get them, but it feels good to have a piece of normalcy back.
Before heading back to campus, I stop at a little hole in the wall coffee shop across the street. A bell chimes as I enter, and the sign at the front says to sit wherever I like.
I slide into a booth close to the back and look over the menu. My stomach grumbles since I missed breakfast in order to get my errands out of the way, but there isn’t much in the way of food.
“What can I get ya, darlin’?” A beautiful graying woman comes up to the table with her notepad ready.
“I’ll take a cream cheese danish and a caramel latte, please.” She scribbles the order then bounces to the next set of customers that walked in after me.
As I wait for my order, I take in the cozy atmosphere of the coffee shop. The walls are adorned with local art and the soft hum of conversation fills the air. It’s a nice change of pace from the chaos of campus life.
A few minutes later, the woman returns with my danish and latte. “Here you go, sweetie. Enjoy!”
“Thank you,” I say, offering her a smile. I take a bite of the danish, savoring the creamy sweetness as I sip my latte, feeling the warmth spread through me. It’s a small moment of peace in an otherwise hectic day.
I check my watch, then down my drink. Classes for me start this afternoon and I need to get my books beforehand. Leaving cash on the table, I grab my purse and push through the doors. The bright sun forces me to shade my eyes as I walk toward my car.
I park in a rush, then jog to my dorm for my bookbag. Thankfully, it’s packed and ready to go, and I’m out of the Hall and sprinting across campus. With five minutes to spare, I slide into the auditorium, taking my seat on the top row.
As I catch my breath, I wipe the sweat from my forehead from the jog here. I look around the room. The auditorium is filling up quickly and I spot a few familiar faces from move-in day. I slip into a seat in the back and pull out my notebook and pen, ready to take notes. The professor walks in and begins setting up for the lecture.
Dr. Andrews begins talking about the syllabus and the upcoming assignments. I jot down important dates and deadlines, trying to push all other thoughts aside. This is what I need to focus on, my studies and my future.
After the lecture, I drop everything into my bag and take off toward a small cafe close to my next class. I opt to sit outside, needing the fresh air. Pulling out my phone, I dial my mother.
“Hello?” Her familiar voice sounds through, making me instantly relax. We may not be close anymore, but she’s still the only family I have left.
“Hey mom, it’s Fallon,” I reply.
“Fallon! I’ve been worried sick. I was about to call the administrative office to make sure you were alright. What’s going on, sweetie?” I guess I could have used Rowyn’s or Lyndsy’s phone to give her an update, but I didn’t think about it.
“I’m okay, mom, really,” I say, trying to sound as reassuring as possible. “I lost my other phone and had to get a replacement today, so this is my new number,” I explain.
“Oh, thank goodness,” she sighs in relief. “I was so worried. How are your classes going, sweetie?”
“I’ve only had English 101 so far but I think I’m going to like it. The professor gave us a list of the books we’ll be going over, so I’m excited to dive into those,” I ramble on.
“You always were a bookworm,” she teases. “Listen, I’m glad to get in touch with you. I have some exciting news to share. I’ll be in town Friday. Could you meet me for dinner?” Thoughts swirl through my mind at what she could possibly have to tell me. It’s not like her to keep things from me.
“What’s wrong? Why can’t you tell me now? You know I will worry all week about what it is,” I plead.
There’s a brief pause before she responds. “I know, Fallon, but it’s something I really want to discuss in person. I promise it’s nothing bad. Can you wait until Friday?”
“Alright, mom,” I agree, my curiosity piqued. “I’ll see you on Friday then.”
“Great! I’ll text you the details later. Take care, sweetie.”
“You too, mom. Bye,” I say, ending the call and feeling a mix of anticipation and wariness over what she has to share. I lean back in my chair, the gentle breeze playing with my hair. I stare at my phone, mind racing with possibilities. What would mom want to tell me in person? Taking a deep breath, I try to calm my thoughts. She sounded happier than I’ve heard her in a long time, which gives me hope that whatever the news is will be positive.
I spent most of my free time talking with her and now I have about five minutes to grab a snack and get to my next class. I quickly gather my things and head inside the café. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods fills the air. I grab a granola bar and a bottle of water, pay at the counter then rush out the door. With my snack in hand, I make my way to my next class, my mind still buzzing with curiosity about my mom’s news.
The walk to the math and science building is short, which I’m thankful for. I should have gone through my schedule before the start of classes instead of relying on this stupid map to get me around. Live and learn, I guess .
Once I get to the classroom, I wince because the professor has already started. I don’t want to disrupt her as I come in, but I have no choice. Slowly I open the door, and of course it squeaks on its hinges, alerting everyone’s attention to my tardiness. My cheeks flame as I mutter my apologies. When I look for a seat, I see Rowyn waving me over. Relief floods through me and I hurry to plop down beside her.
“Rough morning?” she whispers, with a sympathetic smile.
“Not terrible, but not great,” I whisper back, trying to focus on the professor.
I take out my notebook and try to catch up on the lecture. I scribble down notes as quickly as I can. Rowyn nudges me and slides her notes over so I can see what I missed. I give her a grateful smile and focus on the professor’s words, determined to make the most of the class despite my late arrival.
Mrs. Abernathy walks us through what to expect this semester. Fortunately, math comes easy to me so I’m not worried, but Rowyn seems to be fidgeting beside me.
After class, I walk with Rowyn to her next one since I’m finished for the day.
“That class doesn’t seem like it will be too bad,” I note.
“Yeah, easy for you to say. I suck at math,” she grumbles. I bump her shoulder with mine playfully.
“Well, we already know we’ll be study buddies. I can help with math and you can help me with Literature.”
“Oh, we can definitely arrange that!” she smiles.
“I had to get a new phone. Can you put yours and Lyndsy’s numbers in there?” I pull it from my back shorts pocket and hand it over.
“Oh, I love the case. Have you seen any more of Remy?” she asks while she saves the numbers. I’m thankful that she’s looking at the screen and not me, because I’m sure she could see the embarrassment on my face. I didn’t tell them what happened in the library yesterday, and I don’t plan on it either. That was a one time thing. A spur of the moment lapse in judgment. At least that’s what I keep telling myself.
“Uh, not really,” I mumble, trying to sound casual. “Just been busy with classes and all.”
Rowyn hands my phone back with a knowing smile. “Well, if you do see him, you should totally walk the other direction. He seems like a prick.”
I nod, forcing a smile. “Yeah, he’s an asshole.” Not a lie.
Wanting to change the subject, I ask, “So, what are your plans for the weekend?”
Rowyn’s face lights up. “Oh, I’m going to the beach with Lyndsy and some friends. There’s a little bonfire party. You should come! It’ll be fun.”
My stomach drops at her mention of the ocean. That’s the last place I want to be right now. “That sounds like fun,” I lie. “But I have to meet my mom Friday night.”
Rowyn’s face falls, and I feel guilty for not telling her the whole truth. “Maybe you could come after?” she asks, hopeful.
I contemplate her question. If I stay far away from the water, then maybe it won’t be that big of a deal. I need to start facing my fears, instead of running from them.
“Maybe. I can call you when we’re finished and see if you are still out there,” I finally answer.
Rowyn grins. “Perfect! We’ll save you a seat by the fire. It’s going to be a blast.”
“Thanks, Row,” I say, feeling a bit more relaxed.
“Oh, I forgot to tell you. I signed us up for this game thing tonight,” she grins.
“Um, what?” I stop walking, waiting for her to elaborate.
“It’s like hide-and-seek in the dark.”
“O-kayyy…” I say, a bit skeptical, but intrigued.
“Come on, it’ll be fun! We could use a little adventure. Plus, this new hottie on the swim team told me I should come and bring my roommates! I think he likes me!” Rowyn squeals in excitement.
Mr. Red Flags pops into my head, but surely it wasn’t him that asked, right? I’m hoping this doesn’t mean that the whole swim team will be there, or at least one member in particular.
I shrug my shoulders. “Sounds kinda spooky, I guess I’m in.”
Reaching her next class, we say our goodbyes and I head back to the dorm.
As I walk, I think about the game tonight and the weekend plans. It feels good to have something fun to look forward to, especially with everything else on my mind.
Back at the dorm, I drop my bag on the floor and flop onto my bed, staring at the ceiling. My thoughts drift back to my mom’s mysterious news and the upcoming dinner. Whatever it is, I hope it’s good, but I have an uneasy feeling about it.
Just then, my phone buzzes with a new message, distracting me from my thoughts. I pick it up and see a text from an unknown number.
Unknown:
I’m glad you signed up for the games tonight.
Fallon:
Who is this?
Unknown:
Your worst nightmare. See you tonight, Fallon.
A chill runs down my spine as I stare at the message. Who could this be? And how do they know about the game tonight? I take in a deep breath, trying to shake off the anxiety. It’s probably just someone trying to mess with me. Maybe it’s just a coincidence, a wrong number. Then I reread the message and see my name. How did I miss that before? How the hell did someone get this number? There is only one person that could be behind this, Remy. I don’t think Rowyn would have given it out, but then again he can be intimidating.
Fallon:
Hey, Row. Did you happen to give my number out to anyone?
Rowyn:
No. Why? What happened?
Fallon:
Nothing. Just a wrong number I guess. I’ll see you later!
Rowyn:
Okay. We need to wear something dark tonight so we won’t be found easily.
I send her a thumbs up emoji before I put the phone down on my desk. Unease curls around my body, threatening to take over. I try to shake it off, reminding myself that it’s just Remy being an ass. Still, I can’t help but feel a bit unsettled.
Is Remy planning something tonight? And if so, can I handle it? I’ve never been left unscathed by our past encounters. I should have taken his warning from the library to heart. “I’m the king of this school and I. Always. Get. What. I. Want.” Chills run through my body. What the hell have I gotten myself into?