Christina’s face fills the screen, a champagne bottle tilted toward pouty lips in a sea of too-short skirts and hockey jerseys. She’s straddling some guy, his face buried in her neck so I can’t see his face, but the jacket he’s wearing gives it away that he’s on the team. Behind them someone’s doing a keg stand in the center of the room.
I’m surprised the party is actually going on. Earlier today, Iheard a couple of students say that the team was on curfew and banned from throwing any more bashes. Clearly they make their own rules. I guess when you’ve won the school as many conference championships as they have, you can do whatever you want.
It may have only been less than a week, but I picked up rather quickly that the hockey team are like gods on this campus, probably because that prick Alex is the captain and the chancellor’s son. If there’s one thing they care about around here, it’s status.
I focus on the image again, and it’s fascinating to see. So much is going on in the background. Students dancing, conversing, or making out—living their lives out loud for us all to see.
At the top right corner, I notice Everest sitting on the couch surrounded by girls—completely oblivious that he’s been caught on camera. And now, suddenly, I do care a little. I don’t know why; it’s not like Everest has said a word to me. I’ve seen him a handful of times on campus, and in each moment, he acts as if I don’t exist.
Another buzz.
869023:Your RydeShare is on the way. Douglas is 10 minutes away from your location. Black Mercedes-Benz E-Class. License plate: 8XJH527.
Chrissy Lindsey:Ryde 10 mins out. Wear something slutty.
My thumbnail finds the groove it’s worn into the phone case as I pick at the plastic while contemplating her message. I don’t even own anything slutty.
Am I really considering going to this party? Should I go?
Don’t I deserve an ounce of fun? Evan would tell me yes. Ilaugh because I can hear his voice in my head.“Why is that even a question? Go shake your ass and shake some for me, too.”
“Just for an hour,” I try to convince myself.
With newfound determination, I throw my legs over the side of the bed and make my way to the closet. I then dig through my stuff for the sluttiest thing I can find.
Which is nothing…
I can’t wear the same old clothes unless I want to be the laughingstock of the night. I’ve already been nothing but comedic relief for these people—as if my misfortune was designed for their amusement.
Yeah. This is definitely a bad idea.
Girl. Go to the damn party.Evan’s voice is like an alarm in my head now.
“Fine,” I say aloud to no one and turn on my heel to stare at Gracie’s closet.
She’s been nothing but generous and has told—more like demanded—me to help myself to her stuff on multiple occasions.
I saunter forward, and hesitation lingers like a lead weight as I pull it open. Rows of high-end blouses, dresses, and skirts fill the shelves while the floor is covered with stacks of shoe boxes. Purses and accessories line both walls, and all I can do is stare in awe. She could dress a village with the number of items she has here.
I spot a black miniskirt that I could pair with my favorite green knitted cropped sweater, fishnet tights, and boots. Wouldn’t be my first pick, but we’re at the start of spring so it shouldn’t be too chilly. Not wanting to overstep, I text Gracie.
Sam:Hey. Could I borrow your black miniskirt? I’ll bring it back in one piece.
Roomie: It’s totally cool. I told you. What’s mine is yours.
I smile, a weight lifting off of my shoulders. Having someone be as kind as Gracie feels surreal. I quickly change into my outfit before styling my hair into a topknot. Costume jewelry—a bangle, large hoop earrings, and rings—complete the look.
869023:Your Ryde has arrived. Douglas is waiting outside.
I grab my ID, room key, and the twenty-dollar bill I’ve been holding on to for dear life, before locking the door behind me. I pause to shoot another text to Gracie.
Sam:Thank you! You’re the best!
I race down the three flights of stairs, and as I reach the bottom, my phone buzzes and I look down to see a reply from Gracie.
Roomie:Of course! Where are you going?
Sam:I decided to go to the Knights’ party.
