Samara
Dio and I hadn’t talked, and it was starting to take a toll on me.
From the things my mother was saying to what was actually happening, it all started to add up, or it seemed like they did, and I was lost. I wanted to be wrong about it all; I wanted to be called delusional, but it seemed as if it was all true.
I moved around the dean’s office, faxing, typing, and answering the phone like a fucking secretary.
For the most part, it kept my mind occupied, but the quiet moments were when I thought about Dio.
I sat at the desk, gazing at the screen, when Dean August stopped by.
I gave her a fake smile. “Thank you.”
She started to walk off but stopped. “You said your major was somewhere in the arts?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“I may have something you’re interested in. Have you thought of traveling abroad for the summer? I know someone who hosts a trip each year. I can put in a word if you like.”
My eyes lit up. Traveling and exploring art? It all sounded great, but if I left, what would really become of Dio and me? Would that truly be the end of us? She must have known I was a bit hesitant because she tapped my shoulder.
“Traveling out of the country isn’t for everyone, and it can be a lot when you’re close to your family and friends. Think about it. If you’re interested, let me know, and I will put that word in for you. Deal?”
Presenting her with a weak smile, I replied, “Deal.”
She nodded and headed down the hall. Moments after she disappeared, a girl walked into the office. She looked familiar, but I could have been tripping since my mind was all over the place.
“Hello. How can I help you?” I asked.
She didn’t smile, yet she stared at me like she was analyzing me. “I have an appointment with Dean August.”
I typed on my computer to check the schedule. “Any slower and I’m going to be late,” she hissed.
My fingers stopped. “According to this, you’re already late.” I paused as my eyes rose to her. “Apple. Give me a few minutes, and I’ll get you back there. Have a seat, please.”
She sucked her teeth as she walked over toward the seats, but didn’t sit down. It was as if she were antsy. My eyes scanned over her. Pretty, probably thinks she’s better than everyone else, but I could put money on it that she is flawed under all that. I stood from the desk and went around.
“Right this way,” I told her.
She stood and looked me up and down. We walked alongside each other in silence until we reached the door.
I somewhat brushed her side as I tapped the door, opened it, and let her in.
She damn near bumped me out of the way as she walked in.
I let off a light scoff as I closed the door behind her.
I walked back to my desk and opened my hand to a small bag of pills.
“So, you’re a pill popper?” I mumbled.
Old habits never die. I may have been sweet to everyone, but I was still the pickpocketing girl from New York. I gazed at the pills, wondering what they were. Xannies or percs? I thought.
“Samara!” someone shouted my name, scaring me.
I dropped the pills in my desk drawer as my head shot up. My eyes were greeted with a dozen orange roses, then both Paige and Alyse. They both stood there with wide grins. “A delivery for the princess.”
I knew these had come from Dio, but why couldn’t he bring them himself?
A part of me was in awe, but the other half was angry because I wanted him to fix whatever this was.
I took the vase and brought it closer to my nose.
My eyes closed for a second as I took in the scent, which was his. My stomach fluttered for a moment.
“How did you guys get these?”
Paige shrugged. “Braylen gave them to me and told me to bring them to you. They’re beautiful. Look at the prince, girl.”
I rolled my eyes. “Whatever. What’s up with you guys?”
Alyse leaned forward. “We’re going to Hoodoo’s tonight. Are you coming?”
I shook my head. “No. I—”
“Morgan will be there. She is coming to stay for the weekend. You know the pageant is tomorrow. It will be like it was during Christmas break. Come on,” she whined.
I let out a sigh. “Fine.”
They both seemed excited. I shook my head as they headed out of the building. I stared at the flowers, thinking of Dio, hoping we would somehow fix what was broken.