"Evan…Evan.. Evangeline, it's time for us to leave, get up. "I roll over and look at my hung over roommate who is in a rush to awaken me. As I go to rise and check the time on my phone; an earth shattering headache hits me. Cause me to falter in motions grabbing my head in pain." I don't think I'm emotionally or physically ready for today, so head out without me. I'm sleep this one off" I said in a sluggish tone while I roll back over in bed and Buried my face into the pillow . "Yea I will definitely cover for you. You have been though enough all ready. I have some painkillers on the night stand and I' ll hit the light on my way out. Sleep good and see you later. 😘" as she flicked the light and locked the door. While I zone out of the painkiller my roommate Cleo have left for me I drift far into my thoughts.I had a weird childhood growing up, I had no parents or at least I have never met them. As cliché as that sounds I didn't mind much. I live with my grandmother for a long as I remember. My grandma never told me anything about them she didn't seem very found of sharing anything with me. It seem sad and lonely but I had my best friend and my future partner. They did mean the world to me. But a lot of thing changed over time and so have I. Take me for example I'm in college in Nevada city trying to be a writer and working at a bar when I have the option of just getting married and be a stay at home mother. " I never like that idea" I mutter into the void of my roomI sit up to take some pill killers as I decide that I can't waste in bed after every thing and will go for a walk to chill the headache that is still throbbing. I step in front of my bathroom mirror, looking at my disheveled hair and the dark circles under my eyes. "I need to get my life together," I whisper to my reflection. I splashed water on my face to make sure I was full awake. I gather all my wild and untamed hair into a bun with a confidence that I wish I had before the month started. After a nice hot shower and getting dressed I grabbed my shoes and headed out the door with a bittersweet taste in my mouth. I make it to the lobby with reminiscent memories rushing in my mind about my fiance…"Ex-fiancé" I corrected myself out loud. " I have no need to think about that anymore I have to work on get everything back that he stole from me and more. As I step outside, the cool air hits my face, providing a small relief from the throbbing in my head. The campus is quiet this early in the morning. the dew is still present on the grass and I find comfort in the solitude. Walking aimlessly, before I realized I was at the ice cream shop, caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions with the establishment I was about to leave, but a well-built gentleman graciously held the door open, gesturing for me to enter first. I settled into my favorite booth, lost in my thoughts, only to realize the man had followed me and taken a seat right in front me. It was then that I truly began to observe him. As our eyes met, he offered me a warm smile. but had more interest in the menu. His dark brown hair cascades around piercing gray eyes, which are accentuated by slim, rectangular glasses that sit with precision on his straight, well-defined nose. "So what can I get for the couple?"I was starring at this man that I didn't even realize the waitress came. "I will have…" the man contemplate and he still scan the menu."Jack-o- lantern shake and plate of fries please" I say to stall for time for the gentleman. "Can you come back it is seem I need more time" he explained to the waitress. She nodded her head flash a small smile and walked away. "So, do you live around here?" he inquired, his voice breaking the stillness. The question left me frozen like a deer caught in headlights, momentarily stunned by the realization that he was speaking to me."Yes," I finally managed, my voice tinged with a hint of shyness. "I've been living here recently since I started school."" would you mind share what to eat in this place, I just transferred in this year so I'm not familiar with any good eating spots?"" im sorry I don't want to be rude but who are you and why did you seat with me." Something that accidentally slipped out of my mouth. He eye widen for a sec before he smiled and said"I'm Atlas Grey, 24 second year in the business course," he said as he leaned back, adjusting his glasses.My eyes wandered to his toned arm in a black turtleneck and his slim fingers."I think it your turn now" he said interrupted my gaze "Evangeline Archer, I'm 22 and a second-year student stud—""Do you know what you want?" the waitress interrupted, setting down my fries and shake with a clatter."One flat garlic burger and another plate of fries, please," I replied. The waitress seemed annoyed and turned her attention to Atlas. "So, what will you get?" she asked him. His eyebrow lifted, and his smile tightened slightly."I'll have what my lovely companion ordered," he said, his smile strained but polite. She nodded curtly and gave me a quick glance before walking away."Sorry about that." Atlas said "Why are you apologizing?" I questioned " this happens alot, women acting that way around me when any female talking with me, it almost a everyday occurrence." He laughs "It's fine. I'm not bothered. It's not like I'm your girlfriend or anything.""Yeah, true," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of challenge.We chatted about random, trivial things while enjoying our food."You seem like a good girl to be around. I would love to hangout properly next time." He words left my cheeks with Slight blush. "Can get your number since we aren't on bad terms?" Atlas said with a smirk. I know though smirk way to well, so I decided to play along."My phone's broken, but if we run into each other again, you can try then," I replied, feigning disinterest."I'll definitely get it sooner or later," he whispered, but that's not the only thing I want.I gave him a puzzled look but shrugged it off."I'll see you around star girl"Is the last thing I heard from him before I walked out of the ice cream shop. My phone started to buzz in my pocket. So I answered without look at the screen."Evan, my love how are you."I frozen in place taking the phone away from my ear so I could see the caller id. CHEATING PIG"Damn it, why now," I muttered under my breath. Unsure of what to say, I hung up and stared at the phone, trying to figure out the best way to handle it. Before I could decide, I heard someone calling me. EVAN… EVANi slowly turned hoping it wasn't the one who called me earlier. But when I seen my roommate waving her arms at me, a stone that filled my chest melted away. I waved back and hurried over to her, grateful for the distraction." hey what you doing out here I thought you didn't feel good?" Ask by a worried Cleo " I just wanted to clear my head and think straight" trying to sound convincing." that good, let's go back to our place we have class soon" As we walked together, I couldn't help but feel a bit more at ease. The earlier call still lingered in my mind, but for now, I focused on the present.The lecture hall was already buzzing with chatter as I slipped into a seat near the back. Professor Whitman was setting up his notes at the front, his usual stern expression in place. I pulled out my notebook, trying to focus on the upcoming lecture. As the class settled down, Professor Whitman cleared his throat and began, "Today, we'll be discussing the concept of love in Greek history. This will be crucial for your finals."I glanced around, noticing that everyone seemed engrossed in their own thoughts. Then suddenly, my gaze locked with an olive skin, redhead. His hair was fiery, and his eyes, a soft green hue, seemed to hold a depth that was both intriguing and unsettling the soul. A tattoo of a firecracker adorned the man's neck, its vibrant reds and oranges capturing explosive energy. The fuse, a delicate line, wound its way up towards his jaw, adding a sense of imminent ignition. But before I could admire his tattoo, his strong gaze fell on me like cold water, making me catch my breath and look away sharply. I could feel his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he packed his things and left. Try to listen back in to the lesson a sudden voice whispered behind me "You have a problem, dork?" I jumped, startled by the sudden appearance of the redhead I had been staring at earlier. Now that I see him up close, he looks even more handsome, but there's something dangerous reek from him. The freckles scattered across his face highlight his features, but it's the scar running down the side of his face that adds a menacing edge. "No problem, and how come you think I'm a dork?" I shot back with a hint of aggression. "Your gpa is 4.0" replied in a flat tone. "Why does having a 4.0 GPA make me a dork?" I questioned, amusement glint in my eye."Don't get hung up on my words dork Just curious why you were staring at me." I can admit I was staring at him but pride would allow me to just say it. I tried to come up with an excuse, but all I could manage was, "I was just lost in thought, and you happened to be in my line of sight." "What a lovely excuse," he said with a smirk, clearly not buying it." well if you don't believe me why continue to speak with me" "Because I find you intriguing," he replied, his smirk softening into a knowing smile, as if he understood something unknown to me. Something seem familiar about this guy but I could put where I seen him. "Do I know you?" I tilt my head and ask. He mirrored your gesture, his eyes meeting yours, "I'm Pierce Perez, I'm SURE you know who I am." You shook your head slightly, "Your name's not ringing any bell for me." Pierce persisted, "If not my name, then my looks?"She looked at him, puzzled, "I'm sorry, but I really don't recognize you. Maybe you have me confused with someone else?"He looked me up and down, a slight sadness or maybe even pain flickering in his eyes.but it was gone as show as it showed up."Mr.Perez can you tell me about The love story of Leander and Hero" slice though our conversation. Pierce turned his gaze to the teacher and said "can you repeat the question?"" the love story between Leander and the hero"" it's about lengths to which true lovers will go to be together, no matter how tragic the consequences are."The answer seem to cool the teacher 's ardor. As the teacher moved on to the next question, Pierce glanced back at me. The classroom continued to buzzed with the usual chatter, but I couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted between us."This will be a group effort, and trust me when I say I know if you cheat or don't do your half," the teacher announced, assigning us into groups for the next project. I found myself in Pierce group.I quickly found my group who was sitting in silence looking at each other with pensive faces. "Hey your katie and you are… wait I know this.." I said try to make light of things"sam, my name is sam"he replied in a straight voice " nice to meet you I'm Evangeline but you guys can call me Evan."with a nervous smile on my face "Evangeline," Pierce interjected, repeating it a few times as though he was enjoying the way it rolled off his tongue. I observe his lips moving as he whispers my name softly, trying not to attract attention."So who doing what?" Katie spoke up."Me and dandelion over here will do the positive argument." Pierce said before I could chime in.Katie lift her eyebrows and looked at me.I smile and showed that I fine with the arrangements." before we go into the assignment we should exchange contracts and have a group chat" he add on I agreed with it and the other two was hesitant at first but participated as well. We started to head to the library to find our research having small talk along the way when I caught sight of him, a man with his long white hair that seemed straight out of an elf's tale, and his leather jacket rolled up to reveal his strong arm, we passed each other, locking eyes. His soft blue eyes, a stark contrast to his appearance, captivated me – that shade of blue being my favorite. As he walked away, I stole one last glance at the intriguing stranger who now stop and stood in the middle of the hall, wearing a satisfied expression. Something about his look parked a fire within me, but I quickly turned away, continuing on my path to my destination. I noticed Pierce glancing at the man who walked past and then looking at me. It seemed like he wanted to ask me something, but he never did. The unspoken question lingered in the air between us as we continue to walk. Once we made it to the library, we found a quiet corner to settle down and start our research. Katie and Sam pulled out their laptops and began setting up while pierce and me started gathering books and articles related to our topic. I couldn't help but steal glances at Pierce, wondering if he was still thinking about the man we passed in the hallway. He seemed focused on the task at hand, His eyes would flicker towards me, and for a moment, I entertained the idea that he might be feeling jealous. However, I quickly dismissed the thought, thinking to myself, "Suggesting something like that sounds crazy." It was probably just my imagination running wild in the midst of the library setting. "I have been reading too much smut," I muttered, not meaning to say it out loud."What you got there?" I heard a voice right in my ear. I almost screamed but quickly covered my mouth and turned to face my unwelcome visitor. I saw that it was the white-haired man. I was amazed by his features, his striking appearance even more captivating up close. The man had his white hair styled into a mullet that cascaded down to his shoulders, giving him a rebellious yet captivating look. His black sleeveless shirt clung to his muscular frame, revealing well-defined arms adorned with intricate tattoos. His sharp jawline and piercing eyes drew attention, exuding an air of confidence. He smiles at me and said "I didn't mean to scare you but want to say hi" the reasoning behind his actions is strange but I brushed it off and smile back saying "I guess I should be more aware of my surroundings." As the conversation unfolded, a playful banter began to emerge between us. His eyes sparkled with mischief as he asked,He lean in saying "Do you always get lost in your thoughts, or was it just my captivating presence?"I chuckled softly, feeling a warm connection forming in that unexpected moment. But I get the feeling like I'm also a pirate far from home, lured by a siren. I don't say that out loud, but his eyes tell a tale of adventure and temptation, mirroring the unspoken thrill of the encounter. I smiled, leaning in a bit closer. "Maybe it's a bit of both," I replied, my voice just above a whisper. "You certainly have a way of capturing my attention." The air between us crackled with unspoken possibilities, making the moment feel even more electric. "River," he said as he held out his strong hand to me. I knew his name before I even saw him. river Larsen, He's the headmaster's kid, and not only that, he's a popular model. That's why I think my feelings might not be unfounded."Your river Larsen it hard for people to come and study here if they don't know who you are." I said " it seem your not impressed with that?" He questioned me " no, big name never do" I relied frankly " what does impress Evangeline huh?" He smiled at meI froze to think if I ever told him my name"No, there nothing. not even you knowing my name will change that"He hold his hands up " you caught me I seen your name on the the scoreboard in miss white man class?" " mr.Whitman you mean" " yes that women" I laugh at the joke but a loud shhhh cut thought my laughter, I apologize and turn back to him. River's smile widened, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "It's hard not to notice someone like you," he replied. "Besides, I've seen you around campus. You are always surrounded by the smartest people on campus." River leaned in closer, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. "You know, I've always wondered what it is that keeps you so engrossed in your books. Never seen you without one." He laughs"I've liked books since I was younger, so it's a habit now to always have one to read.""So what's the current obsession you've got now?"The hesitation in my answer was very clear."Umm, I don't know if you'd care for my answer anyway, so I don't think it matters.""Instead of dodging the question, you could have lied," he said with full amusement.I did a mental facepalm, but before I could come up with a lie, he unzipped my bag and grabbed the book in one swift motion."Haunting Adaline," he read out. Before he could read anymore of it, I snatched it out of his hand and quickly said, "I'm just holding this one for a friend." We looked at each other, knowing I was lying, but I tried to maintain my composure.He chuckled softly, clearly amused by my futile attempt to cover up."You don't have to pretend, you know. It's okay to have your own interests." I felt my cheeks flush slightly. "It's just... it's not the kind of book I'd normally admit to reading.""Well, now I'm curious," he said, his eyes twinkling with genuine interest. "What's it about?"I hesitated for a moment, then decided to be semi-honest. "It's a romantic mystery. The main character, Adaline, is haunted by her past and is trying to uncover secrets that could change her life forever."He nodded thoughtfully. "Sounds intriguing. I'll borrow it after you're done."I looked at him, surprised. "You'd really want to read it?""Why not?" he shrugged. I get an Eerie sense of déjà vu from the conversation, giving me memories of a white haired kid that I meet almost everyday on the hill where the big weeping willow sat. One rainy afternoon, I was sitting under the tree, tears streaming down my face after a particularly rough day at school. He appeared out of nowhere, his fluffy hair damp from the rain, and sat beside me without a word. He handed me a small, worn-out book. 'This always helps me escape,' he said softly, his voice filled with understanding and comfort. We spent hours there, flipping through the pages, finding solace in the stories within.As the memory faded, I looked back at him in the present. Realizing I zoned out and staring at him, I quickly replied that I had work to do and it was lovely speaking with him. As I hastily gather my things and said my goodbyes I head towards my group to finish the project. Before I even realize the time we had, it was gone and they were locking up the library for the day. As we were walking out, Pierce asked, "What are your plans after this?" But just as soon as the question left his mouth, my phone rang. I apologized for the interruption and answered the call."IT'S THE WEEKEND AND WE'RE SINGLE, SO LET'S GO OUT!" Cleo's voice beamed through the phone.
"Cleo, there's no need for yelling, and I don't have anything to wear anyway," I said hesitantly.
"Girl, you know you don't have to worry about that. I got you. Just let me take you out and have a fun time," Cleo insisted. With reluctance in my voice, I agreed.Cleo is a bit of an empath. There were past incidents that made me believe in this theory. Just by her saying those words, I felt all the tension in my body relax. "You won't regret it, I promise. I have a good feeling about tonight ."As I hung up the phone, Pierce looked at me curiously. "Who was that?" he asked. "That was my friend Cleo," I replied. "She wants to go out tonight, and she's pretty insistent."Pierce chuckled. "Sounds like she's got a lot of energy. So, are you going to go?"
"I guess so," I said with a shrug. "She's already got everything planned out. What about you? Any exciting plans?"Pierce smiled. "Nothing too crazy. I was just thinking of catching up on some old friends of mine. Maybe we could meet up tomorrow if you're free?""We'll see how it goes," I said casually. "I'll let you know what happens." He walked me back to my dorm in comfortable silence. "The stars are exceptionally beautiful tonight," I remarked, gazing upwards. "Their splendor complements the field of dandelions we have." "Do you have an affection for dandelions?" he inquired, tilting his head to observe me more closely."Not particularly," I responded. "I perceive dandelions as free spirits that roam the world. Despite being mere weeds, they possess a unique place of their own." "Not particularly," I responded. "I perceive dandelions as free spirits that roam the world. Despite being mere weeds, they possess a unique place of their own."Pierce nodded thoughtfully. "That's an interesting. You know, my grandmother used to say that dandelions are wishes waiting to be made. She believed that if you blew on them, they'd carry your hopes to the stars. I never believed it but I care enough to think about it." I smiled at the thought. "She seem very sweet."He glanced at me, his eyes reflecting the starlight. " I'll see you soon." with a small smile etched on his face.As he walked away, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief . The night sky seemed even more enchanting, filled with endless possibilities. As I was gazing at the night sky, I hear Cleo squealing from the entrance of our shared living space while jumping up and down smiling me down. I awkwardly smile and laugh at her as I see her run to grab my arm."I have the perfect outfits that will make any man drop dead for you." Her happiness oozed out in every part of her. This made me remember the old times before boy drama, when it was just the two of us. Seeing her now made me love her even more for being with me for so long. When we reached the door, Cleo flew to her closet and shouted on her way out, "This place is kinda high class, but it's newly opened and it's masquerade-themed, so we have no big worries."Confused about why she addressed me in that manner, I turned to see the dress she expected me to wear. "No, not happening," I said without hesitation. She raised an eyebrow at me. "It's better than anything you've got, and we both know this will look good on you!" I hate when she's right about something I don't like. "That's why you said all that before showing me the dress," I replied in an unreadable tone, with an intention to fight playing in the back of my mind."Ok fine just because I love you and I trust you intuition." I said pointedly. "I just know you'll come around," she said with a big smile as she turned to grab her makeup. Cleo's figure moved out of the room, and I plopped down on the bed, waiting. I opened my phone to scroll through some stuff when I got a message from my grandma talking about the farm animals back home. I replied with something about what I've been up to in school and the latest movie. Just as I hit send, Cleo burst back in with a huge bag of makeup, her face lighting up with excitement. I'm already scared of her, and we haven't even started yet! Cleo giggled and said, "Of course! A little glam never hurt anyone! Trust me, it'll be fun!" She started pulling out all the different products, showing me her favorites. "Just think of it as a little adventure;Plus, you'll look amazing!" I couldn't help but roll my eyes, but a part of me was getting curious about how it would all turn out. "Alright, fine! Let's see what you've got."As Cleo worked her magic, I could feel myself transforming with each brushstroke. Time seemed to blur as we chatted and laughed, and before I realized it, she was adding the final touches to my look. She handed me a mirror with a proud smile on her face. She had transformed me, yet somehow made me look more like myself at the same time. I look at her with joy breaming from my eyes "I'm ready for that dress now."As I marveled at my reflection, Cleo disappeared into the other room. Moments later, she reappeared, gracefully stepping out in a stunning midnight blue gown. The dress was adorned with silver embroidery resembling constellations and tiny crystals that sparkled like stars. Her radiant smile perfectly captured the enchanting theme of the evening. After seeing how beautiful she was in the dress it made me less anxious about tonight. ~time skip~As our Uber approached the end of what felt like the longest driveway ever, an estate—more like a billionaire's home—came into view, alongside the other guests arriving for the occasion. It wasn't the size or how expensive the place looked; it was the stunning architecture that captivated me, with its intricate designs and breathtaking views that seemed to stretch on forever.
It was made for a god to have as a summer house. I see Cleo with the same reactions to mine toward the place, and just as quickly that I noticed is when she turn to grab me and ask me something."No matter what happened tonight, you will see it through to the end, okay?' Before I could respond, she continued, 'I say this because I understand that this isn't your usual scene, but I want you to make the most of tonight. And, I promise on 'Prince Naveen' himself that you will enjoy yourself." I couldn't help but laugh, recalling how she made that promise to me long ago, always treating it as a joke. Yet, hearing her bring it up again filled me with a sense of excitement for the evening ahead. I grab her hand and grab the handle after given Cleo a happy smile.
" LOOK WHO FINALLY SHOWED UP TO THE PARTY" shouted by one of my clearly drunk friend."Where have you guys been? "enjoying "your college experience." As he playfully elbow Pierce beside him. I could see the anger rising on his face but nothing was done. River speak up with " we don't do much of that Mac, when there is bigger thing to do." Letting a small laugh after to lighten the mood. "Bigger things, huh? Like what?" Mac asked, raising an eyebrow at River. He crack a small smile "Like planning our next adventure per-say. You know, the real college experience." Pierce finally chimed in, still a bit annoyed, "Yeah, well, some of us are just trying to make some money for right now."
"Pfft- you workaholism~ Mac slurred, waving a drink in the air. "You can't study all the time!"
River laughed, "Exactly! Balance is key, my dude. A little fun never hurt anyone."
"Yeah, but too much fun and you'll end up like him,"Pierce said, pointing at our drunken friend.
Everyone burst out laughing, and the tension faded as we all settled into the party vibe. And with that, it only natural we talk about girls as they eye our v.i.p booth from the dance floor.
"Altas you see something you like out there?" River ask me. Making realize that I stop listening to the conversation.
Mac stumbles off the couch to walk to the window that looks over the dance floor and said "if you guys find anybody you want just say the word man, I got you."
" I personally like to get my own women myself." I add to cut him off
" you never actually do it even if you wanted to" pierce said dryly
"I have high expectations of my woman" I shrugged
" I just need pretty face that got no brain to her, Mac said calmly staring in one spot in the crowd " but I'm not that picky about it." I glance at pierce hot head temper starting to show.
" since it been a minute we all went on a hunt why don't we take a vantage of this moment." And I started toward the door while fixing my mask onto my face.