Forever Changed Part One: A College Bully RH Romance (Forever Changed Duet Book 1)

by Amber Nicole

  She turns around and leaves, and I wish she’d trip or slip in her six inch stilettos. But sadly no, she struts out the door and yells at one of her friends about something stupid. God she is such a bitch to everyone. I step towards the door and Layton isn’t far behind. “I need a fucking drink,” I mutter and he agrees. I grab his hand and pull him into a hard kiss. “We’re finishing before this night is over,” I all but growl. He chuckles and gives me a sweet kiss, before turning and walking to the kitchen. I follow and accept the rum and coke he hands me. I don’t bother sipping—I down that fucker in two swallows and hold my cup out for more. Lay refills me then we start the bullshit of greeting our fraternity brothers and some of the girls. Just another Saturday night.

  Layton

  I watch Carson from the edge of the room, admiring her courage to stand there and have the girls berate her over stupid shit and the guys harass her, since she is technically fresh meat. I wish I could go over and talk to her, but I overheard one of the Kippa girls say she was under strict orders not to acknowledge or converse with anyone. They find it hilarious, while I find myself growing pissed. How is she supposed to stand up for herself if she can’t speak? Why do I even care? What is it about this girl?

  Jase comes over and distracts me from my thoughts, handing me another drink. I still can’t believe we haven’t come tonight. Not for lack of trying anyways. East comes over and gives me a look.

  “What?” I ask him and the asshole scoffs. “Dude. Stop staring at her.”

  I look away and frown. I really don’t feel comfortable with ruining this poor girl's life. We stand and talk for a while saying hi to whoever comes over, but I‘m so over the party scene. I used to be all for partying, but now that I’ve stopped the drugs and only occasionally drink, it’s not as fun. Who would have thought? Being on drugs made parties more exciting. Yeah, I know I’m an idiot.

  “Oh I am so sorry,” Ella shouts loudly, bringing all eyes her way, the way she likes it. God I hate that bitch. A drink is thrown into Carson's face and laughter sounds all around.

  “Okay, I am over this party,” I say, moving closer to J and East. They nod along with me.

  “I’m all for a bit of humiliation and hazing, but these girls are taking too much pleasure in making Carson feel unwelcome. We may not have to bully her after all,” Jase says with a hopefulness in his eyes. I glance over at her once more, now dripping in a white cream with tears running down her face. Ella comes up and hands her a towel.

  “I really am so sorry. It was a total accident.”

  I roll my eyes and snort. Yeah, like we didn’t hear her plan to ruin Carson's pretty dress, she was only letting everyone know. Carson had finally been able to change from that thirst trap of leather and strings. She changed into a sweet looking pastel dress with daisies. She looks sweet enough to take a bite from. I’ve always liked the innocent types. I glance around and cringe. I don’t know why they host this sinners party every year. One of these times they’re going to be busted.

  I move closer to Carson and grip her elbow gently. “Here, let me help.” I grab the towel and gently remove the liquid from her eyes and face. It smells strong, like a white russian. No wonder she's crying, it has to burn. She gazes up at me and I’m thankful for the mask. “Thank you,” she says softly, before taking the towel and running it over her dripping hair. I watch for a moment feeling my cock stir. Her dress is now see-through, I turn and grab Jase's elbow and practically shove him out the door. I’m done with all the teasing tonight. It’s time I finally get my release.

  Carson

  I’ve never been so humiliated in all my life. Mama always said that I would need to overcome some tests to be initiated into the sisterhood, but that was horrifying. I’m so thankful Sassy brought me my bikini, otherwise everyone would have seen my boobs and butt. Not that it wouldn’t have matched the other girls. I’m just glad no one from home saw this. I glance at the door, watching as that guy in the devil mask shoves another guy out the door. He grabs his hand and gives him a big smile. I wish someone looked at me like that. Figures all the nice guys are gay.

  Penny comes storming up to me with fake concern dripping off her.

  "Oh no. I guess you won't be able to party after all. Why don't you head back to Jhonson Hall, and get some rest. You must be exhausted. I'll text you tomorrow."

  I nod my agreement then shuffle outside and head back to my dorm. My vision is blurry, and wiping my eyes isn't helping. They still sting from the drink that was ‘accidentally’ thrown into my face. Yeah, that chick may have tried to convince me it was an accident and that she was nice, but I’ve been around fake people my whole life. I know a spoiled, rich bitch, when I see one. No one is in the lobby or the front desk of Jhonson Hall, and I sigh in relief. I know I smell like a bar, and I do not need my first write up before classes have even started. I drag myself up the stairs and head straight to the showers. Not even bothering to remove my clothes, I step in under the cool water and let the sobs take me.

  This is not how I pictured today going. I don’t know if I even want to pledge Kippa Nu after that, but I made a promise and I have to see it through. My mama wouldn’t have set me up for a miserable college experience, and some of the girls were genuinely nice. At least when Penny and Ella weren't around.

  I run the water through my messy hair and get out. I don’t have any shower supplies so I end up leaving a puddle on the tile. I glance up and yelp. A boy is standing there at the other cubicles looking worried. I place my hand on my chest, trying to catch my breath.

  “Are you okay? I heard someone crying. Here.” He hands me a large light blue towel and I take it with trembling hands.

  “Yeah, I’m sorry. You scared me. Today has been a day. Thank you.” I offer him a shaky smile.

  “Don’t worry about it,” he says with a shrug, before turning and leaving the bathroom.

  “Wait,” I call out, and he pauses. “What’s your name?” I ask, and he glances over his shoulder, wincing. Yeah, I must make a glorious sight. “Nate. I’ll see you around, Daisy,” he says leaving me confused. Daisy? I wrap the towel around my body, then shuffle my dress off underneath it, laughing when the print comes into my view. There are daisies on the pattern, I forgot about that.

  I enter my dorm, trying to be quiet, but I shouldn't have worried. Sassy is wide awake with a carton of ice cream watching a scary movie. I shut the door with a soft click and shuffle to my room.

  “Holy shit,” she screams. "You scared the hell out of me. How are you so quiet? Wait, what's wrong?” She jumps up and comes to me. I rush to my room and throw the towel to the floor.

  “Fuck.” Sassy gasps, and I cringe. I reach down and grab the towel, rewrapping it around my body. “I am so sorry, Sassy. I’m so used to dressing around my girls, I didn’t think.”

  She laughs nervously and comes to give me a hug. “Not going to lie, babe, you’re smoking hot. If you liked the ladies I would marry you tomorrow.”

  That brings a chuckle and smile to my lips.

  “So are you going to tell me why you smell like a white russian, and are crying?”

  I nod and sniffle. “I will. Let me just get some clothes on first.”

  She leaves my room and gently closes the door. I glance at the picture by my bed, then close my eyes, praying that things get better. Mom, if you can hear me, please give me a sign. I throw on an old football jersey of Memphis’ that I like to sleep in and take a deep breath. Wiping the tears from my face, I open my door, preparing myself to tell Sassy about my horrific night.

  Thirteen

  Connor

  Sunday morning hits, my last day before classes start. I pull my phone out and stare at Cara’s number. I need to tell her, before all these lies and secrets bite me in the ass. Xavier comes storming in, throwing his shit on the couch.

  “What’s up?” I ask him.

  “Dude, we missed out on the best party last night. All because we’re fucking freshman. Such bullshit. I haven’t
been laid since the beach,” he snarls, then pouts. I roll my eyes and look at my phone again.

  “I haven’t been laid for six months, man. You can handle another few days. Once classes start you will be smothered in chicks.” He brightens at that and sits on the coffee table. He nods his head towards my phone. “Have you told her yet?” I shake my head, and he sighs.

  “Cara’s a cool chick. She’ll understand, but if you keep pushing this off it’s going to upset her more,” he says, before walking to his room. The door shuts and his music starts blasting.

  Fuck, I know he is right. It’s really not even a big deal. I don’t know why we didn’t just tell her from the beginning. I toss my phone on the table and lean back on the couch, closing my eyes, and picturing the day I tried teaching her to surf.

  “Con, I really don’t think I can do this,” Cara says, nervously looking at the waves and the hot pink surfboard I rented for her. I walk closer and stand behind her, placing my hands on her hips. She gasps and I lean down to whisper in her ear. “You got this Carson. Just remember to bend your knees and keep them bent. Xav and I will be with you, okay?”

  She starts to nod yes, then shakes out her hands a few times, before taking a deep breath. I step back and she spins to face me, with the biggest smile on her face. “Thank you, Con,” she whispers before grabbing my neck and pulling my lips to hers. I smile as she breaks the kiss, and nod towards the water.

  “Are you ready, babe?” Xav comes up and grabs her by the hips, flipping her over his shoulder. She laughs and I follow them, picking up her surfboard as I go. She squeals as the cool water hits her chest, and Xavier falls down from her shoving him. He comes up for air sputtering and Cara is laughing so hard, tears start to stream down her face. I stand and watch. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her so carefree, so happy. I like it.

  That day on the beach was one of my favorites, and when we got home I made a reckless decision that Xav followed. I really hope this doesn’t come back to bite me in the ass.

  “Hey man, I’m starving. Let’s go grab some grub,” Xav says, slapping my thigh and pulling me from my memories. I open my eyes and sit up.

  “Yeah sounds good,” I say, glancing at my phone.

  “Dude, just fucking call her. Stop acting like a pussy.” I scoff, but I know he’s right. I stand, pick up my phone and slip it in my pocket.

  “We can give her a call after food,” I say, and he rolls his eyes at me. I grab my wallet and follow him out to the hall. I can’t help but glance both ways. Checking the coast is clear. I really am such a dumbass.

  We walk outside and turn left towards a small cafe.

  Oh shit. “Hey, I forgot something. I’ll meet you there.” I turn back to go inside and he keeps walking. I wait till I’m in the clear, then find a tree to hide behind. Wow, she’s so beautiful. Pictures don’t do her justice.

  I spot Cara at the coffee cart talking with another girl. There is also another guy with his eyes on her every move. If I wasn’t doing the same thing I’d find it a bit weird, but that’s just Carson Matthews’ MO. She lures people in like a siren, but instead of being a cold hearted bitch, she’s sweet and caring.

  “Dude, why are you hiding behind a tree?” Xavier whispers in my ear, startling the shit out of me.

  “Bro, stop sneaking up on me. I thought you were going to get food?” I give him a gentle shove, putting some room between us.

  “Yeah, you were taking too long, so I came to see what you were up to.” He glances towards the cart and smiles.

  “Cara is over there. I don’t want her to see me.”

  He shoves beside me and glances that way again. We watch like some creepers, until he can’t take it anymore.

  “I’m done with this shit.” He groans, and before I can stop him, he walks off in her direction. All I can do is watch in horror as he goes up behind her and wraps his arms tight against her waist. She freezes then gets a huge smile on her face after he whispers something in her ear. She spins around and jumps in his arms, squeezing his neck hard. His hands slide down to her ass and I growl. My feet lead me over to them before my brain catches up with what I’m doing. Shit! I spin to run back to my stalker spot, but it’s too late. “Connor?” a small voice asks me. I take a deep breath, then spin.

  “Cara hey, I forgot you went here.” I cringe and she gives me a look of annoyance.

  “Yeah, mister, that isn’t going to fly. What are you guys doing here?” she asks, placing her hands on her hips, giving me a pout. I sigh and run my hand over my face.

  “Um, well you see. We kinda go here too.”

  Her eyes widen, and mouth opens a little in surprise. She gazes up at me with a look of confusion and hurt.

  “We talk almost every day. How could it not come up that you went here—” she glances back at Xav “—both of you?”

  At least he has the foresight to wince. I seriously hate confrontation and when I get backed into a corner I tend to turn into an asshole. My mouth runs before I can catch it and I don’t miss the flash of hurt in her eyes.

  “In my defense, in all of our conversations you never once asked what college I was attending.” She steps back as if I struck her and places a hand on her chest, before lowering her head and biting her lip.

  “You’re absolutely right. How bad of a friend am I? I am so sorry. For what it’s worth I am so glad to see you guys.”

  Fuck, I really am a moron. I walk closer and place a finger under her chin, bringing her eyes to mine.

  “It’s really nice to see you too, and for what it’s worth I’m sorry I didn’t tell you.” I let her chin go and open my arms for her to give me a hug.

  “So I guess you won’t be visiting me in a few weeks after all?” she asks, and I laugh, shaking my head.

  “This is better. Now we can see each other whenever we want.”

  Feeling left out, Xav comes over to our little hug and wraps his arms around us both. From how he acts with her, you would never know that we only recently became such good friends, because it seems like they’ve been friends forever.

  “Cara?” a barista shouts and we let her go get her drink. I punch Xav in the arm hard when her back is turned.

  “You’re such an asshole. That is not how I planned to surprise her.” I complain

  “Totally worth it,” he says, giving me a beaming grin and rubbing the spot I hit. “Now we can hang out at the sorority house, with her new sisters.” He gives an obnoxious eyebrow wiggle that makes me want to hit him harder. Seriously, he’s thinking about his fucking dick right now?

  I scoff and follow Carson over to a bench by the fountain in front of our dorm. Yeah to make matters worse, we also live in Jhonson Hall. I expected to run into her one morning half naked in the shower room. But at this moment I’m not sure that would have been better.

  “So tell me, I heard there was a kick-ass party last night at your Sorority House?” Xav asks as soon as she sits down. She winces and I don’t miss her hand trembling. She clears her throat and gives him a fake smile.

  “Yeah it was something.” She takes a sip of her drink, then moves on from that topic. “So tell me how’s football going?” I give her a look, and she gazes at me with pleading eyes. What happened at the party? Yeah we’ll be talking later.

  “So good, babe. Can’t wait for the big game. You’re coming, right?” Xav asks, placing his arm around her shoulders. I scoff and he tosses me a wink over her head. She bursts out in a fit of giggles. “You do know me right?” She rolls her eyes and takes another sip of her drink. Xav catches my eye and scratches his head. I shrug my shoulders and look off into the courtyard. That guy is still watching Carson. I nod my chin at him and he grabs his book and takes off. That wasn’t suspicious at all.

  “Hey, you okay?” Cara asks me, placing her small hand on my arm. Tingles run up my spine, and I sigh. “Yeah I’m great.” And I really am. I’ve missed her, and now that we're together again I’ll do anything I can to keep her.

  “I’m
sorry I didn’t tell you I decided to come here. I didn’t want you to think I was a stalker.”

  Xav laughs loudly at that and I smack his arm, giving him a look.

  Cara looks at us both and laughs. “Why would I think you were a stalker? Am I missing something here?”

  Xav opens his mouth, but I cut him off. I turn my body so I can look her in the eye. “We were on route to go to Oklahoma, but Texas offered us a full ride as well. I may have made some calls after the beach.” Her mouth pops open and she turns to look at Xavier. He holds his palms out. “Don’t look at me, babe. I only followed because I wasn’t losing my best friend, plus you have the hookup here.” Her nose scrunches at that in confusion. I really want to hit him again. “Ignore the dumbass over there. Are you freaked out?” I ask hesitantly, but she surprises me with a kiss on the cheek. “I know I should be, but no. I’m really glad you're here. I haven’t been here long, but I’m already regretting coming,” she says softly. Now I’m the one confused. My brows crinkle and she laughs again, this time it’s hollow though.

  “It doesn’t matter, tomorrow classes start and I can really get into college. You know how much I love school.”

  I laugh at that. It’s so true. Cara has always been a straight A student. I get lost in her eyes and Xav whines, “Seriously I’m so fucking hungry. Cara come get food with us so loverboy won’t mope when you leave.”

  Yep his ass is grass. Soon as we’re alone, it’s on.

  Fourteen

  Carson

  Shoot! I’m so late. Seems to be a common occurrence since arriving in Texas. At least I know where I’m going this time. Sassy thought it was hilarious that I walked all around campus six times, but I had to, or I’d be so lost. I may have made the guys walk with me too, but I know Xavier gets lost as well. I’m still shocked that they came here. And for me. I think I like them, but I don’t want to ruin our friendship, so I hope things don’t become awkward.