He went inside and shut the door behind him. Cursing and shouting penetrated through the door, even with the loud music. He was kicking the two naked people out of my room. I guess I’m shopping for new sheets…or better yet, a brand new bed. Gross! The couple was still making out as they chuckled and left the room without showing any hint of embarrassment. At least they had put their clothes on.

“Let’s try this again.” Seth gestured for me to go in first. “Ellie kept this part of the condo pretty clean.”

Seth was right, but I couldn’t tell from his tone if it was a question or a comment. There was a bed, a dresser, and a desk. It was pretty empty, so I didn’t know what Seth was talking about. How could you make a mess when there is nothing to make a mess with? I was more than happy to see that this room was in good condition. The white walls and the carpet met my standards.

“Did you drive here?” he asked, breaking my observation.

“No. I took the bus and walked the rest of the way. It wasn’t too far from the bus stop.”

“You should’ve called one of us. Did Jimmy give you our numbers?”

“He gave me Lexy’s, but I didn’t want to bother her.”

“Give me your phone,” he demanded, but his tone was polite.

So I did. Seth punched the keys away and gave it back to me. “I’ve set my number. Call me if you need anything. Jimmy and I are fraternity brothers. Actually, he’s my big bro, so that makes you like my little sis.” He lit a quick grin, a way of confirming I would be fine, and then continued. “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to call.”

“Thanks, Seth. I appreciate it.”

“Do you want to come out and meet my friends? Actually, I only know a few of them. I have no idea who the rest of these people are,” he chuckled. “If I introduce you as Jimmy’s cousin, they won’t try to hit on you. And please don’t walk alone on campus at night. Pretty girls such as yourself can get into a whole lot of trouble around here. Crazy people come out at night.”

“Okay,” I replied, blushing from him calling me pretty. He was very forward. “Let me wash up first. I feel all sticky.”

“I’ll wait for you by the kitchen.”

“Thanks.”

“By the way. There is only one bathroom so make sure to lock the doors on either side. I know this because I practically live here,” he informed with a shrug.

“I’ll remember to do that.” Before Seth could step out of the room, I asked him a question. “Do you know where Ellie is?”

“Oh.” He seemed a bit nervous or amused. I couldn’t tell. “I’m sure Ellie is around here, somewhere. Don’t worry about it. You’ll meet Ellie soon.”

“Okay.” It was all I could say, but I did worry about it. Why wouldn’t she be at her own party? I hoped she didn’t like to throw parties on a regular basis. From what Jimmy texted me, she seemed really nice. I was actually looking forward to getting to know her. I prayed we would get along.

Chapter 3

Alexandria

After I texted my mom, Emma, and Liam that I had arrived safely, I took a quick shower. I didn’t even bother to dry my hair or put on makeup. What was the point? I wasn’t trying to impress anyone. Slipping on another pair of shorts and the white tank top with the pretty little designs, I was refreshed and ready.

Not wanting anyone else to come and look through my stuff, I shoved my belongings inside the empty closet. Who knew who else would come in here when I left the room? Suddenly, nervousness settled through me. I dragged in a deep breath as I wondered if I would fit in. It was always difficult being the new person.

Since I didn’t want Seth waiting for me too long, I rushed out the door, making sure to close it behind me. Feeling the bass of the music drumming against my chest, I headed to the kitchen. On the way, I got comments like, “Hey baby, come drink with me.” Seth was right. Standing alone, I was being hit on left and right; most of them were drunk and probably looking to get laid.

“Alex…here.” Seth waved his beer bottle, yelling over the music. He was standing near the dining area.

I waved back letting him know I saw him.

“This is Dean.” He pointed to his friend, standing next to him. Dean was shorter than Seth with warm hazel eyes.

“Hi,” I smiled.

“Hey,” he grinned, taking my hand to shake. “You’re Jimmy’s cousin. I’ve heard so much about you.”

My eyes were wide with curiosity. Had Jimmy been talking about me?

“Shut up,” Seth chuckled. “I just told him that you were a minute ago.” He rolled his eyes. “Would you like anything to drink?”

“No thanks. I mean…not beer. But could I have some water?” I replied, observing the hard-core party that was happening right in front of my eyes.

“I’ll be right back.” When Seth left, I suddenly felt alone, even with Dean beside me. Knowing Seth was a good friend of Jimmy gave me a sense of security and comfort since I was new here.

Jimmy must have been a partier, but at least he had a good head on his shoulders. He got into UC Berkeley Business Graduate School. That made me wonder about the people around me though.

I was stunned into silence by the number of wasted girls. I didn’t want to judge, but why would they do that? Although, I did give them some credit for not giving a damn. Sometimes I wish I didn’t care so much. I’d like to be a little more adventurous and do something I wouldn’t normally do, live a little more on the daring side.