Breaking Sin
Chapter One
“Hold it! Please hold the elevator!” I yelled as I ran across the lobby as the elevator doors began to close. I was running late for my first class of the day. The man inside reached out and stuck his hand between the closing doors causing them to spring back open. “Thanks” I muttered, out of breathe, smiling at him politely. His lips turned up slightly in a grin but he did not respond. I looked him out of the corner of my eye as we road down several floors in silence. His hair was dark and disheveled, and tattoos ran out from under his t-shirt sleeves. As the bell dung and the doors popped open two campus security guards stood on the other side. The man bolted through them, knocking one to the ground. I pressed my hands against the back wall of the elevator car trying to figure out what had just happened. The one guard pulled the other to his feet and they gave chase, screaming after him to stop.
I made my way to class. My phone rang as I reached the doors.
“Did you hear what happened in the dorm this morning?” Taylor asked, sounding incredibly enthusiastic.
“What do you mean?” I asked, backing away from the entrance as people milled through the doors.
“Some guy got in a fight and beat the shit out of like three people. Everyone around campus is talking about it.” She was entirely too excited.
“I haven’t talked to anyone. I stayed up studying until 3 a.m. for that bio quiz.” I could almost hear her rolling her eyes.
“Before college is over we need to get you a life. You’re missing out on the best parts!”
“We’ve talked about this.” I said, pulling open the doors to the classroom and making my way to my seat. “I have to go.”
“Wait! There is a dollar beer night tonight at Filly’s.”
“Not a chance” I rolled my eyes and flipped through my notes from last night.
“Just think about it.”
“I’ll consider it.” I rolled my eyes and hung the phone up before she could go on. I had absolutely no intention of going out with her tonight. I needed every waking moment I could spare to catch up on work I had missed while visiting back home.
By the time I had finished my last class I was barely hanging on to consciousness. I lay across my bed and pulled out my notes from today. My phone lit up and I slid it under my pillow.
“Sinthia! I can hear your phone from out here!” Taylor yelled from the other side of my dorm room door.
“Shit” I muttered under my breath and got up to answer it. She stood with her hands on her hips, tapping her foot.
“You’ve been avoiding my calls.” Her eyes narrowed as she crossed her arms over her chest. I rolled my eyes and walked back to my bed.
“I have to study.”
“You have to take a break before you wither up and die in this god forsaken place.”
“That’s dramatic” I said dryly.
“One drink. I’m not asking you to burn bibles in the middle of campus. Just have some fun for once.” She waited for me to answer.
“One drink?” I asked over the rim of my dark glasses.
“Yes!” She squealed hugging me enthusiastically. She held me back at arm’s length and looked me over. “We have to do something about your hair first.” She said with mock-disgust. I smacked her playfully on the arm, tugging the hair-tie from my hair, letting long brown tendrils cascade down my back.
“Better?” I asked, waiting for her approval.
“Getting there” she nodded with a playful grin. I grabbed a small mirror and put on some mascara and lip-gloss. By the time we left the sun was just beginning to set.
Filly’s Bar overflowed with college students out for a good time and a cheap price. I tugged at my tank top, wishing I had changed before coming out. The girls around me wore short skirts and tops that barely contained them.
“You look fine.” Taylor said, grabbing my glasses from my face and shoving them into her purse. I tried to protest but she held up her hand to stop me. “I’ll give them back I promise.”
We made our way through the cramped dance floor to the bar. Taylor had to shout over the music to order us drinks. She turned around, handing me a beer as we studied the people around us. “It’s not so bad.” she shouted. I took a long swig from my beer bottle and nodded.
“Could be worse” I agreed, and she smiled triumphantly. I drank another large sip, holding up my bottle and peering inside. “Almost time to go.” I warned, and drank the last few sips of my beer. She frowned and turned back to the bar.
“Two more beers and two shots of vodka!” She yelled to the bartender. I glared at her, slamming my bottle down on the bar. “Live a little” she said, holding up a shot glass for me to take. I drank it down, the harsh liquid burning my throat. I quickly slammed back my beer, trying to soothe it. “Let’s mingle” She grabbed my arm and pulled me away from the bar. I pulled back against her, but she tugged harder.
“I don’t know anybody here.” I protested.
“Exactly my point!” She called back at me as she made her way into a circle of people. She let go of my arm and I rubbed my wrist. They greeted each other, giving hugs as I slinked into the background. I sipped at my beer slowly, taking in the scene. A group of girls hollered from the doorway as three guys walked in. They laughed and made their way straight to the bar. The first was smaller, with sandy blonde hair, followed by a much larger man with the same color hair. They could have been brothers. The third had dark, messy hair with tattoos scattered over his arms. I recognized him immediately from the elevator.
“Taylor” I called, trying to get her attention, but she had her arms wrapped around some guy’s neck and he was whispering into her ear. The guy glanced my way, a hint of a smile on his lips and I looked down at my feet, blushing.
“Can you grab us some drinks?” Taylor yelled over the music. I nodded and made my way to the opposite side of the bar, trying not to look over at the group of guys that were now surrounded by woman.
I held up my fingers to the bartender, signaling for two more drinks. He opened them and sat them on the bar in from of me. I pulled out some cash and set it on the bar, making my way back though the crowd.
“Thanks Sinthia!” Taylor hugged my neck tightly, already half tipsy.
“I think that guy over there is the one that got in that fight at me dorm.” I yelled in her ear. She looked around at the bar.
“That guy?” she asked. “That’s Collin. He’s got one hell of a reputation.” She laughed as the man she had been hanging on all night came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
“That’s saying a lot coming from you.” I joked and she scowled at me. Her attention quickly turned back to the stranger that was now nibbling on her earlobe and whispering to her. She giggled over enthusiastically and I rolled my eyes. I wished I had stayed home to study.
The night dragged on and after a few more drinks, I had loosened up enough to join in on some of the conversation. Eventually, I had found my way to the dance floor.
“This is so much fun!” Taylor screamed and I couldn’t hold back my laughter.
“It’s not so bad.” I shrugged, trying to move my hips to the rhythm. I’m sure I looked like I was having some sort of seizure next to Taylor, but thanks to the alcohol coursing through my veins, I didn’t care. I spun around, putting my back against her as we moved our hips together. I glanced over at the bar and my eyes locked on to Collin’s. I bit my lip tucking my hair behind my ear. He grinned back at me, oblivious to the girl that was whispering in his ear and rubbing her hand across his chest.
Suddenly, the wind escaped my lungs as I was shoved across the floor. Two guys had begun arguing and the one pushed the other, sending him flying directly into me. My drink spilled all over the front of my shirt, completely soaking me.
“Holy shit, Sinthia! Are you okay?” Taylor asked. Out of nowhere, Collin was on the other side of me. He grabbed the guy who had pushed the other guy his collar. Holding him back at arm’s length, he swung full force. His fist collided with the guy’s jaw, sending him falling to the dance floor. Collin didn’t let up, he stood over him, hitting him repeatedly. The guy begged him to stop, holing up his arms to protect himself. Others around him joined in and the room was suddenly chaos.
“Let’s go!” Taylor yelled, grabbing my arm and pulling me out of the way. The crowd was pushing all around us. Some were trying to escape while others wanting a better view of the fight. Taylor’s hand lost its gripped and soon a few people stood between us.
“Taylor!” I yelled over the music and the screaming of the crowd. Collin looked back at me and I stared at him, unable to move.
The front doors pushed open and someone yelled that the cops where here.
“Taylor!” I screamed again as the crowd moved her further and further from me. The guy she had been hanging out with all night pulled her towards the exit as I stood frozen.
“let’s go” Collin said, as he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me towards the back of the bar, away from the main exit. I searched the crowd but Taylor was no longer around. We pushed through a door labeled ‘employees only’. After we snaked through a small corridor, we were outside in the cool night air.
Collin nodded to the two guys he had come in with who sat in a small black SUV. The back door flew open and I panicked, not sure if I was being saved or kidnapped. I pulled back from him. He looked down at me, his face twisted in confusion then changed to what seemed to be amusement.
“I’m not going to hurt you. Come on.” He said, pulling me towards the car. I bit my lip and reluctantly slid into the backseat. Collin slid in beside me and tapped the seat in front of him. “Let’s go!” The car took off in the darkness with no headlights on to guide the way. I grabbed at my seatbelt but I panicked, pulling it too hard, causing it to lock in place.
“Calm down” he said quietly as he reached across me and tugged gently on the strap, and locked it into place. His friends hollered and laughed as we made our way towards campus, but I felt like I was going to be sick.
“Pull over” I said, but my voice barely came out. “Pull over!” I shouted a little louder. The laughter dulled down and the vehicle pulled off to the side off the road. “I can find my way from here.” I said, trying not to sound ungrateful. I unbuckled my seatbelt and opened the door.
“Wait” Collin called after me, and opened his door. We walked over to me and I took a step back, not sure what his intentions were. He laughed to himself. “Go ahead guys. I’ll catch up with you later.” He said to the driver, nodding his head. The car took off into the darkness, leaving me standing, alone, with Collin.
“What’s your name?” he asked, a boyish grin creeping across his face.
“Sinthia” I said quietly, tucking my hair behind my ear.
“Sin? That’s pretty badass. My names Collin.”
“I know.” I replied, regretting the words as soon as they left my mouth. His grin grew larger across his face.
“No wonder you look so scared.” He joked, but I didn’t relax.
“Decker Hall, right? I’ll walk you home. Never know who you might run into out here.”
“I can manage. Thanks for the ride.” I turned away from him and began to walk down the alley, not quite sure where I was. He jogged up next to me, grabbing my arm. I held my breath, afraid of what he was going to do. He released my arm when he saw my expression, taking a step back.
“I was just going to show you a shortcut.” He explained, gesturing to the houses beside us. I reluctantly stepped forward. He grabbed my hand, lacing his fingers in mine and pulled me behind him.
“You are very different from the other girls at the bar.” He said offhandedly and I recoiled, feeling like he was making fun of me. He pulled my hand back closer to him as we walked through the next row of houses.
“I didn’t mean it like that.” He ran his free hand through his messy hair. “Most girls at that bar don’t try so desperately to get away from me.” His eyes flashed to mine and I felt my cheeks burn pink. I looked to the ground.
“I’m immune to bullshit.” I shot back, rolling my eyes. The alcohol was making me a little too honest. He laughed and I couldn’t help but smile at him.
I could see my dorm across the parking lot and he stopped to face me.
“It’s been fun.”
“Thanks for walking me home and for…everything else.” I pulled my fingers from his and began walking towards the building.
“Hey!” He called after me. “You want to hang?” He stared at me expectantly.
“I should really get some sleep. “ I said, shaking my head.
Chapter Two
My alarm wailed above my head and I swung my arm at it, trying to shut it off. It was just out of reach and I reluctantly pushed off my bed to hit the button. My head throbbed and for a moment I wasn’t sure I would make it to class. I got a glass of water and some aspirin and headed down to the showers, hoping it would make me feel well enough to stay awake.
My classes dragged on and by the end of the day, I couldn’t see straight. Part of that was due to leaving my glasses in Taylor’s purse. My phone rang as I made my way across campus towards the dorm.
“What did you do last night?” Taylor asked.
“Hello to you too” I said dryly.
“Hello. What the hell happened with you and Collin last night?” Her question caught me off guard.
“You know I didn’t do anything, Tay.” I rolled my eyes and pushed the button for the elevator.
“Don’t give me that. He was eye fucking you all night. Then, he went all incredible hulk on that guy.”
I laughed as the doors opened. Standing in front of me was Collin. His green eyes lit up when he saw me.
“Hello” I said quietly as I stepped inside.
“Yea, hello. We already said all that, remember?” Taylor snapped in my ear.
“Hey” Collin replied.
“Who the fuck was that? Was that…Was that Collin? You did fuck him! You slut!” Taylor giggled in my ear.
“I’ll call you back.” I ended the call and slid my phone into my pocket. He held the door to the elevator open and I waited for him to walk out but he didn’t.
“What are you doing here?” I asked, sounding more rude than I intended.
“I was looking for you, but I didn’t know which room was yours so I may have pissed off some of the people on your floor.” He grinned and my heart began to speed up.
“Why?” I asked.
“I don’t know. Make sure you got home okay.” He ran his fingers through his hair and it fell perfectly back into place. I bit my lip. He made me incredibly nervous. Most guys didn’t bother to approach me. I usually kept to myself, aside from the rare occasion that I let Taylor drag me out for a drink.
“Here I am.” I smiled like an idiot, than quickly erased it from my face. What the hell was this guy doing to me? Two girls filed passed him into the elevator, giggling and smiling. He grinned their direction but his eyes came quickly back to mine.
“So, I’ll see you around?” He asked as he stepped out of the elevator and the girls in the corner got quiet, waiting for my response.
“I guess I will if you keep stalking me like this.” I resorted to sarcasm to hide my nervousness. He laughed as the doors slid closed. I glanced back at the girls behind me who were looking me up and down as if I had an infectious disease.
I couldn’t wait to get inside my room. As soon as I closed the door behind me, I leaned back against it. My phone rang loudly in my hand.
“What the fuck was that about?” Taylor yelled.
“It was nothing. I just ran into Collin in the elevator.”
“You do know he doesn’t even live in our dorm, don’t you?”
“He didn’t stay with me last night, Tay. He’s not even my type.”
“You have a type?”
“You’re exhausting.” I sighed, throwing my books on my bed.
“Get dressed. I’ll be over in five.” She said, hanging up before I could object. I lay back on my bed and stared up at the ceiling wishing it would swallow me whole.
A knock came a few minutes later and Taylor didn’t even bother to wait for a response. She came and plopped next to me on the bed.
“Wake up sleepy head!” She bounced the mattress and I grabbed my stomach.
“Come on, Taylor” I whined, opening my eyes to see her smiling. “Where?”
“I wanna grab some burgers at Smokey’s before the rush.”
“Fine” I pushed off the bed crossed my arms over my chest.
“That’s my girl” She beamed and looped her arm in mine.
I picked at my burger, not really feeling well enough to eat. Taylor grilled me about my time with Collin, not believing that anyone could be alone with him and not drop their panties.
“He didn’t even try, Tay.” I said, trying not to sound disappointed.
“Speak of the sexy devil.” She said grinning. I glanced behind me to see Collin walk through the door with his friends from the bar. I sunk lower in the booth and hoped he didn’t see me. I don’t even know why I cared. He was good looking, sure, but he was nothing but trouble waiting to happen. I’ve watched Taylor enough with those kinds of guys to know it wasn’t anything I wanted.
“He’s looking at you” Taylor gushed and I glanced to the other side of the room. Collin was staring passed the waitress, directly at me. I felt my cheeks begin to burn and I smiled quickly at him. He grinned and nodded once at me. I bit my lip and looked back to Taylor who was glowing. “He fucking wants you.” She laughed. I rolled my eyes and looked back his way. Three girls had joined them and Collin had his arm around a girl with short blonde hair.
“I think your radar is a little off.” I said, dropping a piece of my burger. She leaned in closer to me.
“You really do like him?” She said.
“Looks like everyone does” I rolled my eyes and took a long drink from my soda.
“They’re leaving.” She said and I tried my best not to look up at him, but I gave in, glancing out of the corner of my eye.
“Sin” Collin nodded and my heart leapt into my throat. The blonde on his arm looked bored.
“Hey” I smiled politely, glancing over at Taylor. They continued out of the restaurant and I kicked Taylor under the table.
“What the fuck was that for?” She reached under the table, rubbing her shin.
“Pick a reason.” I said, half joking.
“How about…the fact that we are going out tonight?” She said, pulling back so I would not hit her again.
“I can’t” I shook my head as she began to nod.
“I’m sure Collin will be there.” She said as if that would convince me.
“And all of the girls he is sleeping with” I joked.
“This is your chance to show him what he is missing.”
“Even if he did like me, it wouldn’t go anywhere.”
“I know, but it’s still fun to flirt.” She narrowed her eyes, waiting for me to give in.
“What time?” I sighed. I hated when she begged me, I could never say no.
“Eight”
Chapter Three
I never should have let Taylor dress me up. I looked like a two-bit hooker.
“You luck fucking amazing.” Taylor reassured me as we walked into Filly’s. Several guys turned to look at us as we made our way to the back. “Told you” She whispered and I couldn’t help but smile.
“Fuck” I muttered.
“What?”
“He’s here.” I whispered. Collin was at the bar, his back to us as we approached. I stepped behind Taylor as she ordered us a round of drinks.
“I’ll get that.” Collin nodded to us, putting money on the bar. The bartender nodded back at him.
“Thanks” I yelled over the music. He moved over closer to us. I stepped out from behind Taylor and his eyes looked me up and down.
“Wow, Sin. You clean up nice.” He smiled and I had to look away. After a moment of awkward silence, I tried to make some casual conversation.
“Where’s your girlfriend?”
“What?” Signaling that he couldn’t hear me. I leaned in closer.
“Your girlfriend?” I said louder, enunciating each word.
“You want to be my girlfriend? I’m flattered.” He said, pulling back and placing his hand on his chest.
“No” I smacked his arm and he rubbed in in mock pain. I was surprised at how hard his muscles were. He laughed and leaned back in closer. I could feel his warn breath on my neck and it send goose bumps down my back.
“Too bad” he replied and my breath hitched in my throat. His face lingered next to mine for a moment.
“I hope I’m not interrupting.” The girl he had been with at the Smokey’s said as she smiled at us.
“Not at all.” He smiled and pulled back from me. She wrapped her arms around his waist. I took a long drink from my beer and turned around searching for Taylor. I spotted her a few feet away doing shots with a bunch of frat boys.
“I’ll see you later.” I said, wanting more than anything to get away from the awkward situation.
“I hope so.” He replied, his green eyes smoldering. The blonde was nuzzling her face into his neck.
I found my way back over to Taylor.
“Can we go?” I asked as she slammed back a shot.
“One more drink?” She stuck out her lower lip. I grabbed the shot glass in front of her and slammed it back.
“Can we go now?” She rolled her eyes at me.
“What happened with Collin?”
I pointed back behind me and she made a face of disgust.
“Let’s show him what he is missing!” She said and she grabbed my arm, pulling me back to the dance floor.
“Oh, no! Remember what happened last night?” I begged.
“I remember someone coming to defend your honor.” She smirked and I didn’t have a response.
We danced the night away into the early morning hours. When I could barely stand any longer, I begged for Taylor to take me home.
“I’m not ready to go yet!” She whined.
“I’ll take you.” Collin’s voice said in my ear. I turned around to see him standing, alone. I stuttered trying to come up with a witty response.
“That is a great idea.” Taylor said with laughter in her voice. I glared at her as my ears burned and I could feel myself beginning to flush. Before I could protest, he laced his fingers in mine and pulled me closer. I put my other hand on his back as he led me through the crowd of people. His muscles flexed under my fingers.
The cool air of the outside was refreshing. I took a deep breath, happy to be out of the smoke filled building. He nodded to his friend’s across the parking lot and we walked quickly to the dark SUV.
“Want to go to my place?” he asked, his lips curled up in a smile.
“I’m not going to fuck you.” I rolled my eyes and pulled my hand back, but he squeezed it tighter.
“I didn’t ask.” He smirked and I felt humiliated. “I know you’re not like that.” He added.
“Let’s go” I said, thankful for the alcohol that gave me courage. We slid into the dark car and pulled off into the night. Collin stared out the window as his thumb gently brushed against my knuckles. I wasn’t sure why he was still holding my hand but I didn’t complain. I tugged at my skirt wishing I hadn’t let Taylor dress me. I glanced over at Collin whose eyes were on my legs. He quickly looked away.
“So, what happened to the blonde?” I asked, trying to fill the awkward silence.
“Which one” His friend laughed from the front seat.
“She became increasingly more annoying the drunker she got.” He explained.
“How sad” I muttered under my breath. He laughed quietly. Collin wasn’t as bad a guy as I made him out to be. Sure he was a womanizer, but as a friend he was very easy to get along with and he looked out for me, which was really sweet.
We pulled up to an apartment building just off campus. Collin slid out of the car and stood by the door waiting for me. I got out of the car as gracefully as I could in the ridiculous outfit. We walked, hand in hand to the door. As he pushed it open, I sighed at the giant set of stairs ahead of me. I slipped off my heels and followed behind him.
The apartment was nice. It had minimal furniture but was clean with an open floor plan.
“You want a drink?” he asked as he walked into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle from above the fridge.
“Sure” I said, looking around. “You play?” I asked looking down at the video game system hooked up to the large flat screen television.
“Do I play?” He scoffed and drank back his shot. I walked over to the counter and took my shot, slamming it back. It burned but I had had enough that it didn’t bother me anymore.
“Want to play something?” I asked. He smiled and poured another round for us.
“Of course I’d like to play with you.” He winked and I wanted to reach across the counter and smack him.
“Bye” I said and turned towards the door. He hurried around the counter and grabbed my arm.
“I’m sorry. I can’t help it.” He laughed. I rolled my eyes and went back to the counter to drink my shot.
“Yea, we can play. Let me change first. You want something to wear?” he asked and I bit my lip wondering if I should. “You can’t kill zombies in an outfit like that.” He joked and headed back the hallway. I followed behind him as he dug through his closet for something to wear. He pulled out a white t-shirt and tossed it at me. I looked around for somewhere to change. “I won’t look.” He said. His back was to me as he pulled off his shirt. It was wide and muscular and covered in tattoos. I slinked out of my clothing and pulled the shirt over my head. He grabbed a pair of boxers from his drawer and handed them to me.
“You said you wouldn’t look.” He rolled his eyes and turned back around. I pulled them on quickly and headed back into the living room.
We played for hours until the sun began to shine through the windows. We polished off his bottle of liquor and both of us could barely keep our eyes open.
“I think I should go.” I yawned. He rubbed his eyes, blinking to keep them open.
“I’m too tired to take you home.”
“That’s okay. I can walk.” I got up from the couch and stretched.
“No. Just stay. You can sleep in my bed.” He stood up in front of me.
“Fine” I was too exhausted to protest. We grabbed my hand and I followed him back the hallway to his room. I stared at the bed as he pulled down the blankets and slipped under them. I had assumed he would sleep somewhere else, like the couch. I wanted to say something but it would have been rude to kick him out of his own bed.
“Can you get the light?” He asked, yawning. I flicked off the switched and cursed at myself under my breath as I slid under the covers next to him. I scooted as close to the edge as possible. His breathing became deeper and I relaxed knowing he had fallen asleep.
I awoke the next day at around three in the afternoon. The sun was shining brightly through the windows and it took me a moment to place where I was. The bed was empty and I sat up, stretching. I heard some shuffling down the hall so I walked out to find where Collin had gone.
“Kinda late for a walk of shame.” The shorter blonde guy said from the fridge.
“It’s not like that.” I said under my breath. He looked back at me smiling.
“Don’t be a dick.” Collin called from behind me. He has just gotten out of the shower and he was only wearing a towel wrapped loosely around his waist. My eyes immediately were drawn to the wonderful v- shaped muscles that let down below the towel’s edge. “Hungry?” Collin asked, and I realized I had been staring at him like an idiot.
“Yea” I stuttered.
“Jake this is Sin” He motioned back to me as he dug through the fridge. Jake glanced back it me with a half-cocked smile.
“Sin?” he laughed. “Ahhh… You’re a stripper!” He yelled.
“You really are a dick.” I snapped back. Collin stood up straight and was glaring over at his roommate.
“Just a joke guys” He stammered and walked out of the kitchen. Collin’s gaze turned to me and the corner of his mouth turned up in a proud smile.
“You just officially replaced Jake as my best friend.”
“Hold it! Please hold the elevator!” I yelled as I ran across the lobby as the elevator doors began to close. I was running late for my first class of the day. The man inside reached out and stuck his hand between the closing doors causing them to spring back open. “Thanks” I muttered, out of breathe, smiling at him politely. His lips turned up slightly in a grin but he did not respond. I looked him out of the corner of my eye as we road down several floors in silence. His hair was dark and disheveled, and tattoos ran out from under his t-shirt sleeves. As the bell dung and the doors popped open two campus security guards stood on the other side. The man bolted through them, knocking one to the ground. I pressed my hands against the back wall of the elevator car trying to figure out what had just happened. The one guard pulled the other to his feet and they gave chase, screaming after him to stop.
I made my way to class. My phone rang as I reached the doors.
“Did you hear what happened in the dorm this morning?” Taylor asked, sounding incredibly enthusiastic.
“What do you mean?” I asked, backing away from the entrance as people milled through the doors.
“Some guy got in a fight and beat the shit out of like three people. Everyone around campus is talking about it.” She was entirely too excited.
“I haven’t talked to anyone. I stayed up studying until 3 a.m. for that bio quiz.” I could almost hear her rolling her eyes.
“Before college is over we need to get you a life. You’re missing out on the best parts!”
“We’ve talked about this.” I said, pulling open the doors to the classroom and making my way to my seat. “I have to go.”
“Wait! There is a dollar beer night tonight at Filly’s.”
“Not a chance” I rolled my eyes and flipped through my notes from last night.
“Just think about it.”
“I’ll consider it.” I rolled my eyes and hung the phone up before she could go on. I had absolutely no intention of going out with her tonight. I needed every waking moment I could spare to catch up on work I had missed while visiting back home.
By the time I had finished my last class I was barely hanging on to consciousness. I lay across my bed and pulled out my notes from today. My phone lit up and I slid it under my pillow.
“Sinthia! I can hear your phone from out here!” Taylor yelled from the other side of my dorm room door.
“Shit” I muttered under my breath and got up to answer it. She stood with her hands on her hips, tapping her foot.
“You’ve been avoiding my calls.” Her eyes narrowed as she crossed her arms over her chest. I rolled my eyes and walked back to my bed.
“I have to study.”
“You have to take a break before you wither up and die in this god forsaken place.”
“That’s dramatic” I said dryly.
“One drink. I’m not asking you to burn bibles in the middle of campus. Just have some fun for once.” She waited for me to answer.
“One drink?” I asked over the rim of my dark glasses.
“Yes!” She squealed hugging me enthusiastically. She held me back at arm’s length and looked me over. “We have to do something about your hair first.” She said with mock-disgust. I smacked her playfully on the arm, tugging the hair-tie from my hair, letting long brown tendrils cascade down my back.
“Better?” I asked, waiting for her approval.
“Getting there” she nodded with a playful grin. I grabbed a small mirror and put on some mascara and lip-gloss. By the time we left the sun was just beginning to set.
Filly’s Bar overflowed with college students out for a good time and a cheap price. I tugged at my tank top, wishing I had changed before coming out. The girls around me wore short skirts and tops that barely contained them.
“You look fine.” Taylor said, grabbing my glasses from my face and shoving them into her purse. I tried to protest but she held up her hand to stop me. “I’ll give them back I promise.”
We made our way through the cramped dance floor to the bar. Taylor had to shout over the music to order us drinks. She turned around, handing me a beer as we studied the people around us. “It’s not so bad.” she shouted. I took a long swig from my beer bottle and nodded.
“Could be worse” I agreed, and she smiled triumphantly. I drank another large sip, holding up my bottle and peering inside. “Almost time to go.” I warned, and drank the last few sips of my beer. She frowned and turned back to the bar.
“Two more beers and two shots of vodka!” She yelled to the bartender. I glared at her, slamming my bottle down on the bar. “Live a little” she said, holding up a shot glass for me to take. I drank it down, the harsh liquid burning my throat. I quickly slammed back my beer, trying to soothe it. “Let’s mingle” She grabbed my arm and pulled me away from the bar. I pulled back against her, but she tugged harder.
“I don’t know anybody here.” I protested.
“Exactly my point!” She called back at me as she made her way into a circle of people. She let go of my arm and I rubbed my wrist. They greeted each other, giving hugs as I slinked into the background. I sipped at my beer slowly, taking in the scene. A group of girls hollered from the doorway as three guys walked in. They laughed and made their way straight to the bar. The first was smaller, with sandy blonde hair, followed by a much larger man with the same color hair. They could have been brothers. The third had dark, messy hair with tattoos scattered over his arms. I recognized him immediately from the elevator.
“Taylor” I called, trying to get her attention, but she had her arms wrapped around some guy’s neck and he was whispering into her ear. The guy glanced my way, a hint of a smile on his lips and I looked down at my feet, blushing.
“Can you grab us some drinks?” Taylor yelled over the music. I nodded and made my way to the opposite side of the bar, trying not to look over at the group of guys that were now surrounded by woman.
I held up my fingers to the bartender, signaling for two more drinks. He opened them and sat them on the bar in from of me. I pulled out some cash and set it on the bar, making my way back though the crowd.
“Thanks Sinthia!” Taylor hugged my neck tightly, already half tipsy.
“I think that guy over there is the one that got in that fight at me dorm.” I yelled in her ear. She looked around at the bar.
“That guy?” she asked. “That’s Collin. He’s got one hell of a reputation.” She laughed as the man she had been hanging on all night came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
“That’s saying a lot coming from you.” I joked and she scowled at me. Her attention quickly turned back to the stranger that was now nibbling on her earlobe and whispering to her. She giggled over enthusiastically and I rolled my eyes. I wished I had stayed home to study.
The night dragged on and after a few more drinks, I had loosened up enough to join in on some of the conversation. Eventually, I had found my way to the dance floor.
“This is so much fun!” Taylor screamed and I couldn’t hold back my laughter.
“It’s not so bad.” I shrugged, trying to move my hips to the rhythm. I’m sure I looked like I was having some sort of seizure next to Taylor, but thanks to the alcohol coursing through my veins, I didn’t care. I spun around, putting my back against her as we moved our hips together. I glanced over at the bar and my eyes locked on to Collin’s. I bit my lip tucking my hair behind my ear. He grinned back at me, oblivious to the girl that was whispering in his ear and rubbing her hand across his chest.
Suddenly, the wind escaped my lungs as I was shoved across the floor. Two guys had begun arguing and the one pushed the other, sending him flying directly into me. My drink spilled all over the front of my shirt, completely soaking me.
“Holy shit, Sinthia! Are you okay?” Taylor asked. Out of nowhere, Collin was on the other side of me. He grabbed the guy who had pushed the other guy his collar. Holding him back at arm’s length, he swung full force. His fist collided with the guy’s jaw, sending him falling to the dance floor. Collin didn’t let up, he stood over him, hitting him repeatedly. The guy begged him to stop, holing up his arms to protect himself. Others around him joined in and the room was suddenly chaos.
“Let’s go!” Taylor yelled, grabbing my arm and pulling me out of the way. The crowd was pushing all around us. Some were trying to escape while others wanting a better view of the fight. Taylor’s hand lost its gripped and soon a few people stood between us.
“Taylor!” I yelled over the music and the screaming of the crowd. Collin looked back at me and I stared at him, unable to move.
The front doors pushed open and someone yelled that the cops where here.
“Taylor!” I screamed again as the crowd moved her further and further from me. The guy she had been hanging out with all night pulled her towards the exit as I stood frozen.
“let’s go” Collin said, as he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me towards the back of the bar, away from the main exit. I searched the crowd but Taylor was no longer around. We pushed through a door labeled ‘employees only’. After we snaked through a small corridor, we were outside in the cool night air.
Collin nodded to the two guys he had come in with who sat in a small black SUV. The back door flew open and I panicked, not sure if I was being saved or kidnapped. I pulled back from him. He looked down at me, his face twisted in confusion then changed to what seemed to be amusement.
“I’m not going to hurt you. Come on.” He said, pulling me towards the car. I bit my lip and reluctantly slid into the backseat. Collin slid in beside me and tapped the seat in front of him. “Let’s go!” The car took off in the darkness with no headlights on to guide the way. I grabbed at my seatbelt but I panicked, pulling it too hard, causing it to lock in place.
“Calm down” he said quietly as he reached across me and tugged gently on the strap, and locked it into place. His friends hollered and laughed as we made our way towards campus, but I felt like I was going to be sick.
“Pull over” I said, but my voice barely came out. “Pull over!” I shouted a little louder. The laughter dulled down and the vehicle pulled off to the side off the road. “I can find my way from here.” I said, trying not to sound ungrateful. I unbuckled my seatbelt and opened the door.
“Wait” Collin called after me, and opened his door. We walked over to me and I took a step back, not sure what his intentions were. He laughed to himself. “Go ahead guys. I’ll catch up with you later.” He said to the driver, nodding his head. The car took off into the darkness, leaving me standing, alone, with Collin.
“What’s your name?” he asked, a boyish grin creeping across his face.
“Sinthia” I said quietly, tucking my hair behind my ear.
“Sin? That’s pretty badass. My names Collin.”
“I know.” I replied, regretting the words as soon as they left my mouth. His grin grew larger across his face.
“No wonder you look so scared.” He joked, but I didn’t relax.
“Decker Hall, right? I’ll walk you home. Never know who you might run into out here.”
“I can manage. Thanks for the ride.” I turned away from him and began to walk down the alley, not quite sure where I was. He jogged up next to me, grabbing my arm. I held my breath, afraid of what he was going to do. He released my arm when he saw my expression, taking a step back.
“I was just going to show you a shortcut.” He explained, gesturing to the houses beside us. I reluctantly stepped forward. He grabbed my hand, lacing his fingers in mine and pulled me behind him.
“You are very different from the other girls at the bar.” He said offhandedly and I recoiled, feeling like he was making fun of me. He pulled my hand back closer to him as we walked through the next row of houses.
“I didn’t mean it like that.” He ran his free hand through his messy hair. “Most girls at that bar don’t try so desperately to get away from me.” His eyes flashed to mine and I felt my cheeks burn pink. I looked to the ground.
“I’m immune to bullshit.” I shot back, rolling my eyes. The alcohol was making me a little too honest. He laughed and I couldn’t help but smile at him.
I could see my dorm across the parking lot and he stopped to face me.
“It’s been fun.”
“Thanks for walking me home and for…everything else.” I pulled my fingers from his and began walking towards the building.
“Hey!” He called after me. “You want to hang?” He stared at me expectantly.
“I should really get some sleep. “ I said, shaking my head.
Chapter Two
My alarm wailed above my head and I swung my arm at it, trying to shut it off. It was just out of reach and I reluctantly pushed off my bed to hit the button. My head throbbed and for a moment I wasn’t sure I would make it to class. I got a glass of water and some aspirin and headed down to the showers, hoping it would make me feel well enough to stay awake.
My classes dragged on and by the end of the day, I couldn’t see straight. Part of that was due to leaving my glasses in Taylor’s purse. My phone rang as I made my way across campus towards the dorm.
“What did you do last night?” Taylor asked.
“Hello to you too” I said dryly.
“Hello. What the hell happened with you and Collin last night?” Her question caught me off guard.
“You know I didn’t do anything, Tay.” I rolled my eyes and pushed the button for the elevator.
“Don’t give me that. He was eye fucking you all night. Then, he went all incredible hulk on that guy.”
I laughed as the doors opened. Standing in front of me was Collin. His green eyes lit up when he saw me.
“Hello” I said quietly as I stepped inside.
“Yea, hello. We already said all that, remember?” Taylor snapped in my ear.
“Hey” Collin replied.
“Who the fuck was that? Was that…Was that Collin? You did fuck him! You slut!” Taylor giggled in my ear.
“I’ll call you back.” I ended the call and slid my phone into my pocket. He held the door to the elevator open and I waited for him to walk out but he didn’t.
“What are you doing here?” I asked, sounding more rude than I intended.
“I was looking for you, but I didn’t know which room was yours so I may have pissed off some of the people on your floor.” He grinned and my heart began to speed up.
“Why?” I asked.
“I don’t know. Make sure you got home okay.” He ran his fingers through his hair and it fell perfectly back into place. I bit my lip. He made me incredibly nervous. Most guys didn’t bother to approach me. I usually kept to myself, aside from the rare occasion that I let Taylor drag me out for a drink.
“Here I am.” I smiled like an idiot, than quickly erased it from my face. What the hell was this guy doing to me? Two girls filed passed him into the elevator, giggling and smiling. He grinned their direction but his eyes came quickly back to mine.
“So, I’ll see you around?” He asked as he stepped out of the elevator and the girls in the corner got quiet, waiting for my response.
“I guess I will if you keep stalking me like this.” I resorted to sarcasm to hide my nervousness. He laughed as the doors slid closed. I glanced back at the girls behind me who were looking me up and down as if I had an infectious disease.
I couldn’t wait to get inside my room. As soon as I closed the door behind me, I leaned back against it. My phone rang loudly in my hand.
“What the fuck was that about?” Taylor yelled.
“It was nothing. I just ran into Collin in the elevator.”
“You do know he doesn’t even live in our dorm, don’t you?”
“He didn’t stay with me last night, Tay. He’s not even my type.”
“You have a type?”
“You’re exhausting.” I sighed, throwing my books on my bed.
“Get dressed. I’ll be over in five.” She said, hanging up before I could object. I lay back on my bed and stared up at the ceiling wishing it would swallow me whole.
A knock came a few minutes later and Taylor didn’t even bother to wait for a response. She came and plopped next to me on the bed.
“Wake up sleepy head!” She bounced the mattress and I grabbed my stomach.
“Come on, Taylor” I whined, opening my eyes to see her smiling. “Where?”
“I wanna grab some burgers at Smokey’s before the rush.”
“Fine” I pushed off the bed crossed my arms over my chest.
“That’s my girl” She beamed and looped her arm in mine.
I picked at my burger, not really feeling well enough to eat. Taylor grilled me about my time with Collin, not believing that anyone could be alone with him and not drop their panties.
“He didn’t even try, Tay.” I said, trying not to sound disappointed.
“Speak of the sexy devil.” She said grinning. I glanced behind me to see Collin walk through the door with his friends from the bar. I sunk lower in the booth and hoped he didn’t see me. I don’t even know why I cared. He was good looking, sure, but he was nothing but trouble waiting to happen. I’ve watched Taylor enough with those kinds of guys to know it wasn’t anything I wanted.
“He’s looking at you” Taylor gushed and I glanced to the other side of the room. Collin was staring passed the waitress, directly at me. I felt my cheeks begin to burn and I smiled quickly at him. He grinned and nodded once at me. I bit my lip and looked back to Taylor who was glowing. “He fucking wants you.” She laughed. I rolled my eyes and looked back his way. Three girls had joined them and Collin had his arm around a girl with short blonde hair.
“I think your radar is a little off.” I said, dropping a piece of my burger. She leaned in closer to me.
“You really do like him?” She said.
“Looks like everyone does” I rolled my eyes and took a long drink from my soda.
“They’re leaving.” She said and I tried my best not to look up at him, but I gave in, glancing out of the corner of my eye.
“Sin” Collin nodded and my heart leapt into my throat. The blonde on his arm looked bored.
“Hey” I smiled politely, glancing over at Taylor. They continued out of the restaurant and I kicked Taylor under the table.
“What the fuck was that for?” She reached under the table, rubbing her shin.
“Pick a reason.” I said, half joking.
“How about…the fact that we are going out tonight?” She said, pulling back so I would not hit her again.
“I can’t” I shook my head as she began to nod.
“I’m sure Collin will be there.” She said as if that would convince me.
“And all of the girls he is sleeping with” I joked.
“This is your chance to show him what he is missing.”
“Even if he did like me, it wouldn’t go anywhere.”
“I know, but it’s still fun to flirt.” She narrowed her eyes, waiting for me to give in.
“What time?” I sighed. I hated when she begged me, I could never say no.
“Eight”
Chapter Three
I never should have let Taylor dress me up. I looked like a two-bit hooker.
“You luck fucking amazing.” Taylor reassured me as we walked into Filly’s. Several guys turned to look at us as we made our way to the back. “Told you” She whispered and I couldn’t help but smile.
“Fuck” I muttered.
“What?”
“He’s here.” I whispered. Collin was at the bar, his back to us as we approached. I stepped behind Taylor as she ordered us a round of drinks.
“I’ll get that.” Collin nodded to us, putting money on the bar. The bartender nodded back at him.
“Thanks” I yelled over the music. He moved over closer to us. I stepped out from behind Taylor and his eyes looked me up and down.
“Wow, Sin. You clean up nice.” He smiled and I had to look away. After a moment of awkward silence, I tried to make some casual conversation.
“Where’s your girlfriend?”
“What?” Signaling that he couldn’t hear me. I leaned in closer.
“Your girlfriend?” I said louder, enunciating each word.
“You want to be my girlfriend? I’m flattered.” He said, pulling back and placing his hand on his chest.
“No” I smacked his arm and he rubbed in in mock pain. I was surprised at how hard his muscles were. He laughed and leaned back in closer. I could feel his warn breath on my neck and it send goose bumps down my back.
“Too bad” he replied and my breath hitched in my throat. His face lingered next to mine for a moment.
“I hope I’m not interrupting.” The girl he had been with at the Smokey’s said as she smiled at us.
“Not at all.” He smiled and pulled back from me. She wrapped her arms around his waist. I took a long drink from my beer and turned around searching for Taylor. I spotted her a few feet away doing shots with a bunch of frat boys.
“I’ll see you later.” I said, wanting more than anything to get away from the awkward situation.
“I hope so.” He replied, his green eyes smoldering. The blonde was nuzzling her face into his neck.
I found my way back over to Taylor.
“Can we go?” I asked as she slammed back a shot.
“One more drink?” She stuck out her lower lip. I grabbed the shot glass in front of her and slammed it back.
“Can we go now?” She rolled her eyes at me.
“What happened with Collin?”
I pointed back behind me and she made a face of disgust.
“Let’s show him what he is missing!” She said and she grabbed my arm, pulling me back to the dance floor.
“Oh, no! Remember what happened last night?” I begged.
“I remember someone coming to defend your honor.” She smirked and I didn’t have a response.
We danced the night away into the early morning hours. When I could barely stand any longer, I begged for Taylor to take me home.
“I’m not ready to go yet!” She whined.
“I’ll take you.” Collin’s voice said in my ear. I turned around to see him standing, alone. I stuttered trying to come up with a witty response.
“That is a great idea.” Taylor said with laughter in her voice. I glared at her as my ears burned and I could feel myself beginning to flush. Before I could protest, he laced his fingers in mine and pulled me closer. I put my other hand on his back as he led me through the crowd of people. His muscles flexed under my fingers.
The cool air of the outside was refreshing. I took a deep breath, happy to be out of the smoke filled building. He nodded to his friend’s across the parking lot and we walked quickly to the dark SUV.
“Want to go to my place?” he asked, his lips curled up in a smile.
“I’m not going to fuck you.” I rolled my eyes and pulled my hand back, but he squeezed it tighter.
“I didn’t ask.” He smirked and I felt humiliated. “I know you’re not like that.” He added.
“Let’s go” I said, thankful for the alcohol that gave me courage. We slid into the dark car and pulled off into the night. Collin stared out the window as his thumb gently brushed against my knuckles. I wasn’t sure why he was still holding my hand but I didn’t complain. I tugged at my skirt wishing I hadn’t let Taylor dress me. I glanced over at Collin whose eyes were on my legs. He quickly looked away.
“So, what happened to the blonde?” I asked, trying to fill the awkward silence.
“Which one” His friend laughed from the front seat.
“She became increasingly more annoying the drunker she got.” He explained.
“How sad” I muttered under my breath. He laughed quietly. Collin wasn’t as bad a guy as I made him out to be. Sure he was a womanizer, but as a friend he was very easy to get along with and he looked out for me, which was really sweet.
We pulled up to an apartment building just off campus. Collin slid out of the car and stood by the door waiting for me. I got out of the car as gracefully as I could in the ridiculous outfit. We walked, hand in hand to the door. As he pushed it open, I sighed at the giant set of stairs ahead of me. I slipped off my heels and followed behind him.
The apartment was nice. It had minimal furniture but was clean with an open floor plan.
“You want a drink?” he asked as he walked into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle from above the fridge.
“Sure” I said, looking around. “You play?” I asked looking down at the video game system hooked up to the large flat screen television.
“Do I play?” He scoffed and drank back his shot. I walked over to the counter and took my shot, slamming it back. It burned but I had had enough that it didn’t bother me anymore.
“Want to play something?” I asked. He smiled and poured another round for us.
“Of course I’d like to play with you.” He winked and I wanted to reach across the counter and smack him.
“Bye” I said and turned towards the door. He hurried around the counter and grabbed my arm.
“I’m sorry. I can’t help it.” He laughed. I rolled my eyes and went back to the counter to drink my shot.
“Yea, we can play. Let me change first. You want something to wear?” he asked and I bit my lip wondering if I should. “You can’t kill zombies in an outfit like that.” He joked and headed back the hallway. I followed behind him as he dug through his closet for something to wear. He pulled out a white t-shirt and tossed it at me. I looked around for somewhere to change. “I won’t look.” He said. His back was to me as he pulled off his shirt. It was wide and muscular and covered in tattoos. I slinked out of my clothing and pulled the shirt over my head. He grabbed a pair of boxers from his drawer and handed them to me.
“You said you wouldn’t look.” He rolled his eyes and turned back around. I pulled them on quickly and headed back into the living room.
We played for hours until the sun began to shine through the windows. We polished off his bottle of liquor and both of us could barely keep our eyes open.
“I think I should go.” I yawned. He rubbed his eyes, blinking to keep them open.
“I’m too tired to take you home.”
“That’s okay. I can walk.” I got up from the couch and stretched.
“No. Just stay. You can sleep in my bed.” He stood up in front of me.
“Fine” I was too exhausted to protest. We grabbed my hand and I followed him back the hallway to his room. I stared at the bed as he pulled down the blankets and slipped under them. I had assumed he would sleep somewhere else, like the couch. I wanted to say something but it would have been rude to kick him out of his own bed.
“Can you get the light?” He asked, yawning. I flicked off the switched and cursed at myself under my breath as I slid under the covers next to him. I scooted as close to the edge as possible. His breathing became deeper and I relaxed knowing he had fallen asleep.
I awoke the next day at around three in the afternoon. The sun was shining brightly through the windows and it took me a moment to place where I was. The bed was empty and I sat up, stretching. I heard some shuffling down the hall so I walked out to find where Collin had gone.
“Kinda late for a walk of shame.” The shorter blonde guy said from the fridge.
“It’s not like that.” I said under my breath. He looked back at me smiling.
“Don’t be a dick.” Collin called from behind me. He has just gotten out of the shower and he was only wearing a towel wrapped loosely around his waist. My eyes immediately were drawn to the wonderful v- shaped muscles that let down below the towel’s edge. “Hungry?” Collin asked, and I realized I had been staring at him like an idiot.
“Yea” I stuttered.
“Jake this is Sin” He motioned back to me as he dug through the fridge. Jake glanced back it me with a half-cocked smile.
“Sin?” he laughed. “Ahhh… You’re a stripper!” He yelled.
“You really are a dick.” I snapped back. Collin stood up straight and was glaring over at his roommate.
“Just a joke guys” He stammered and walked out of the kitchen. Collin’s gaze turned to me and the corner of his mouth turned up in a proud smile.
“You just officially replaced Jake as my best friend.”
