v

just because you're sc

ly sprinted up the concrete stairs of the freshman dorm. My heart was hamm

close to me under those oak trees. I could still smell his cologne. I could still

ng from you last nigh

as that he was right.

h and sweating, my mind betrayed me, flashing a vi

d by the explosive fight with Brad. When Liam had

hose slate-gray sheets. I remembered the rough texture of his large hands sl

perate to feel something other than anger, he had ruined me for anyone else. He'd been so fierce, yet so incredib

in the hallway. I forced myself to swallow the lump

Brad's girlfriend. I don't have breathl

Over

thoughts. He was standing outside Roo

wo hours, Chase was an absolute lifesaver. He unboxed my heavy bedding, hung up my fairy lights, and even h

mpty cardboard box onto the pile in the corner. He wiped his

giving him a tight, genuine hug. "I don't know

nds. Don't just sit in here FaceTiming Brad all night." He gave my shoulder a playful nudge. "I

practically pushing him toward

ing. I'm just a ten-minute walk away." With

room was completely bare. Whoever my roommate was, they hadn't arrived yet, which was a total blessing. I needed t

ff dorm-quality, but right now, it felt like a cloud. I closed my eyes, letting out a long, shudder

Knock

llow. Chase probably

ed over to the door in my socks, unlocking it and swinging it

died in m

ce, my stomach dropping

ouquet of my favorite pink carnations and

e saw my expression. "Surprise! Happy first day o