A Different Side (University Park #4)

by C. M. Doporto

  I sensed Lexi was a little intimated by the crowd, loud music, and drinking. I latched on to her hand. “Relax. Just stay next to me and you’ll be safe.” She clasped her fingers tightly around mine and I led her inside.

  Several eyes landed on us, but I acted like it was no big deal. “Hey, man, what’s up?” I shook hands with a couple of guys standing by the pool table.

  Lexi looked around. “Whose place is this?”

  “One of the guys on the team lives here with some of his fraternity brothers.” I continued greeting a few of my friends, eying them as they checked out Lexi. I’d warn them before they got any ideas. She was with me tonight…and hopefully every night going forward.

  “It’s a nice house.” She admired the dark mahogany staircase and bookshelves in the craftsman style home. This house was exactly something I’d love to buy for my mom.

  Sigh. One day.

  “Yeah, but after tonight, it’ll look like shit.” I shook my head and guided her to the kitchen, squeezing through the crowd of people. It didn’t take long for Macy and her friends to spot us. They rolled their eyes and whispered into each other’s ears. I kept a grin on my face the entire time. I was certain I wouldn’t be needing their services any more — status change was definitely in effect.

  “Lexi!” Delaney threw her hands up in the air and ran toward us. “You made it.”

  “Yep, I’m here.” Lexi glanced at me and I smiled. It was almost surreal.

  “I can’t believe it!” Delaney flung her arms around Lexi and I stepped aside, trying to stay clear of her flailing arms. “We’re going to party all night long,” Delaney sung repeatedly, and I wanted to laugh. The girl was definitely drunk and ready to have a good time.

  “Damn, did you down a whole bottle or what?” Lexi pushed her away.

  “Uh, no.” She rolled her eyes. “Just took a few shots. C’mon. You have to try this.” She grabbed Lexi’s hand and started to drag her toward the bar.

  “I’ll be right back.” Lexi stumbled behind Delaney.

  “I’m going to see who’s here and then I’ll come find you. Flip your phone to vibrate in case I can’t find you,” I informed her before heading off in the opposite direction.

  I found Shawn in the hallway, talking to some girl. “Don’t listen to anything he’s saying,” I said, leaning toward her.

  “Shut up, man.” Shawn slugged me on the arm. “You’re ruining my image here.” He pretended to dust off the front of his shirt.

  Chuckling, I said, “Whatever.”

  Shawn pushed me and I waved him off as I made my way through the house, telling my friends hi. Lexi might not have been by my side at that moment, but knowing she was there with me gave me a different swagger. She’d be leaving with me tonight and I couldn’t wait to see what happened after that.

  “When did you get here, dude?” Josh placed a hand on my shoulder and I turned around.

  “Hey, man.” We clasped hands. “Lexi and I got here about five minutes ago.”

  Josh cocked a brow. “She came with you?”

  I grinned. “Yes, she did. And she’s leaving with me too.”

  Pulling me closer, he said, “Get it, man.”

  I shook my head and released his hand. Even though I was dying to have sex with her, I refused to pressure her or talk about it with my friends. “I already told you, she’s not that type of girl.”

  Josh rolled his eyes. “Yeah, whatever.” His voice slurred, telling me he’d already had several shots.

  “I’m serious,” I said before deciding right now wasn’t the time to try to convince him. “So, where’s Shelby?”

  “In the kitchen, I think.” Josh took another sip of his beer. “You’re not drinking tonight?” He eyed my empty hand.

  “Uh, I just—”

  “Raven, my man.” Quinton wrapped an arm around my neck, breathing his beer breath all over my face. “When did you get here?”

  “A little while ago.”

  “Hey, you need a drink?” He showed me his cup.

  “Yeah, sure.”

  “I’ll be right back.” He darted off to get me a beer.

  In the background, I heard a crowd cheer on Abby, one of the Silicone Triplets. Something told me she might try to ruin it for me. “I better go check on Lexi.”

  “Yeah, alright. I gotta go take a leak.”

  “Okay. Later, man.” I headed back toward the kitchen.

  Abby pushed her way through the kitchen and I made sure to avoid her. Over the crowd of people, I spotted Delaney, Lexi, and Shelby sitting on barstools. Shelby looked drunker than Delaney, and by the mischievous expressions on their faces, their goal was to get Lexi caught up. I’d keep an eye on her and take care of her if needed.

  Lance, a Kappa Sig, was working the makeshift bar, holding a bottle of liquor. He turned over three shot glasses and filled each one of them. “Bottoms up, girls.”

  I pushed my way through the crowd, eager to see Lexi take her first shot. Everyone started clapping and egging them to drink. “One. Two. Three!” A roar erupted and I caught a glimpse of Lexi downing the whiskey.

  She squeezed her eyes and her face twisted in disgust. “Ugh! What the hell was that?” She stuck out her tongue and fanned her mouth.

  Lance muttered something, but all I caught was, “Haven’t you tried one before?” He gave her a weird look.

  Everyone gawked at her as if she were from another planet. I felt so bad for her.

  “She just transferred here from St. Mary’s. Ya know, the Catholic university down in San Antonio,” Delaney informed the people staring at Lexi.

  “Yeah, I was studying to be a nun, but it didn’t work out so well,” she replied in a serious tone.

  I busted out in laughter. What a great excuse to cover up her innocence. Freakin’ epic.

  “Oh.” Everyone nodded and I could tell she was holding back a laugh.

  “Do you want to do another one?” Lance held up the bottle in his hand.

  “No, that’s okay.” She jumped off the chair. “I better start slow.”

  “One more! One more!” the crowd yelled, but Lexi didn’t budge.

  “C’mon, Lexi!” Delaney begged, but she pushed her way through the crowd, heading toward the living room. I sidetracked through the crowd, so I could meet up with her.

  “Don’t back out now,” Shelby pleaded. “This party is just gettin’ started.”

  I broke through the horde of people and turned to meet Lexi. She stumbled as she broke free from the tight knit mob. “Whoa. You alright?” I reached forward and caught her before she hit the floor.

  “Yeah, I just—um,” she muttered as I pulled her close to me, wrapping my arms around her small waist. Her body tensed and she took several deep breaths.

  “What’s Shelby complaining about now?” I asked, connecting my eyes to hers. I lured her in, causing her body to relax against my chest. Having her in my arms never felt so good. Her gaze rested on my lips and her eyes rolled back. Either she was ready for me to kiss her, or the liquor was taking effect.

  I tilted my head from side to side, trying to get her full attention. “How many shots did you do?”

  “Just one.” She smiled, her eyes focusing on me. “Now I can check that off my list.”

  “Good. But what did you take?”

  “A Fireball.” She straightened and tossed her hair over her shoulder, pleased with her accomplishment.

  I gave a nod of approval. “I’m glad you only did one. That shit’s like sixty-six proof, it’ll knock you on your ass.”

  “Is it stronger than tequila?” She placed her hand on my chest and I flexed. What would it take to get her to rub my muscles? A few more shots?

  “Depends on the tequila. Cheap tequila isn’t as strong, but a good bottle is about eighty proof.”

  She wiped the corner of her mouth with her finger. “I guess a Fireball was a good choice to start with.”

  “We’ll see.” I had to resist the temptation to kiss her ri
ght there. “Just wait awhile before you do another one, okay?”

  She nodded and then settled into my arms, getting more comfortable by the minute. Whether it was the liquor taking effect or me putting her at ease, I didn’t care. I couldn’t wait to see more of this different side of Lexi.

  “Hey, have you seen Shelby?” Josh pulled me back, leaning into my ear.

  “Yeah,” I pointed toward the kitchen, “she’s over there doing shots.”

  “Aw, hell.” He shook his head, pissed.

  “Hey, Josh.” I grabbed his arm before he took off. “I’d like for you to meet Lexi.”

  Josh stopped and turned around. “Lexi? The tutor?”

  I wanted to punch him in the face for saying that. Did he have to keep reminding me she was my tutor?

  “Yes, the tutor.” Lexi stuck out her hand, seeming to like that he called attention to that fact. She shook his hand and smiled.

  “Nice to meet you, Lexi. I’m Josh Marshall.”

  I hooked an arm around him, letting it go. “This guy here is not only my teammate, but also my best friend.”

  “And don’t forget roommate.” He held up his beer.

  “Oh, yeah. That, too.”

  “Let’s go dance!” Delaney crashed into us, making Josh spill his beer.

  “Damn, girl. Take it easy on the shots. We’re going to be carrying you out of here if you don’t stop,” Josh said.

  Delaney threw her head back, laughing. “I can hang with you guys. Trust me,” she said, but her eyes told another story.

  “Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Josh waved her off. “Where’s Shelby?”

  “Right here.” Shelby grinded on him, as if he were a pole she was ready to swing on.

  “And how many have you done?” Josh crossed his arms and stayed stiff, trying to act like he didn’t enjoy it.

  Shelby hiccupped and then giggled. “Enough to make this one wild night.” She winked at him and I knew the party was over for them. Josh grabbed her and planted his lips on hers. They gave each other sloppy kisses as their hands roamed all over each other’s bodies, as if they were alone.

  “Damn, go back to the apartment.” I pushed them aside and they stumbled out the front door, lip-locked the entire way.

  “C’mon. I wanna dance.” Delaney shook her body and Lexi joined in, moving to the beat of the music. Damn, she looked so freakin’ sexy. I couldn’t wait to take her home tonight. Delaney grabbed Lexi by the arm and pulled her toward the living room. Lexi latched on to my hand, towing me behind her.

  “No, that’s alright,” I protested at first, then allowed her to lead me toward the makeshift dance floor. Dancing with her wouldn’t be so bad.

  Moves Like Jagger filled the air and the floor shook beneath us. We danced in a tight circle, bodies rubbing against each other as people showed off their moves. Delaney sang, or tried to, missing every high note. But the girl didn’t care. She was having a good time and we laughed at her wannabe superstar impersonation.

  Matt, who played center, worked his way across the dance floor in our direction. He got behind Delaney and started freakin’ her, but she didn’t seem to mind. She quickly joined in on the grinding action, rubbing her ass all over his dick. With her cute figure, long dark waves, and striking blue eyes, it was obvious why guys flocked to her. Not to mention her reputation was wide open to any guy.

  Lexi looked away, obviously bothered by her behavior. I assumed it had something to do with her brother, but that wasn’t something I wanted to get involved in. Delaney was an adult and what she did was her business. Besides, my attention was better spent on Lexi.

  Colorful lights flashed across the room, making Lexi look even more radiant. Our eyes locked and I threaded my fingers through hers, raising our hands high above our heads. I rocked my body against hers, enticing her until she met my movements in a perfect rhythm.

  Damn. I wanted her.

  The closeness of our bodies sent me into a frenzy. The room narrowed, like it was just the two of us. The music boomed and the lights flashed, creating our own intimate dance party. She swayed her hips from side to side and I followed her actions. It would take all my energy to keep things under control and not give into my deepest desires.

  I pulled her closer, pressing my cheek to the side of her face. I sang to her, letting her know that even though she might be broken and scared, as long as she was with me, I’d prove to her I had the key to everything she needed. The lyrics depicted exactly what I wanted to do with her. If that didn’t have her in my trap, I didn’t know what would.

  We held a soulful gaze and at that moment, I knew I had her and she had me. She draped her arms around my neck and sang to me. My body quivered at the sound of her voice, telling me she was ready for me to take control and own her tonight. And I would.

  Oh shit! Did she just give me the go ahead?

  She grinded against me, practically begging me to rub her right. And hell, I would.

  I dug my fingers into her hair and pressed my lips to hers. She responded eagerly, kissing me like she couldn’t get enough of me. Our tongues twirled and the taste of cinnamon filled my mouth. Damn, Lexi was so freakin’ sweet. She was taking me by the tongue and showing me exactly what she wanted and needed from me. My mind turned to mush and the room spun around us. I was ready to kiss her until we were both drunk on each other.

  Maybe tonight would be the night.

  ∑

  Chapter 16

  All my life, my heart has yearned for something I cannot name.

  ~Andre Breaton

  Delaney ruined our moment and I was so pissed. By the way she was acting and dancing with Matt, I knew she was drunk. She was throwing back shots like they were water. I laughed internally, recalling what she said about being able to hang with the boys. Whatever.

  “Laney, why are you crying?” Lexi struggled to help me take Delaney to the car. With one arm hooked around both of us, we dragged her across the grass as her feet stumbled to keep up.

  “Why?” She sobbed and moaned. “Why doesn’t he want to talk to me?”

  “I’ve got her, just open the door.” I handed Lexi the keys as I held on to Delaney. Her body was limp and she smelled like a bar tramp. Lexi unlocked the car and then pushed the seat forward. “You better not throw up in my car.” I eyed her as I lay her in the backseat. “That’s all I’m asking.”

  “I’m not going to throw up,” Delaney slurred her words as she wiped the tears from her eyes. “I never throw up.”

  That was a warning right there.

  “Maybe we should put her in the front?” Lexi huffed as she tucked her hair behind her ears. “Just in case she has to puke.”

  “It’s only a few blocks. Hopefully she’ll be alright.” I kept a steady eye on her, hoping I was right.

  “Okay.” Lexi got in and I shut the door for her. I jogged around to my side and cranked the engine.

  “Why won’t he text me back?” Delaney complained. I wanted to tell her to shut up.

  One of my frat buddies helped guide me onto the street since the party was still in full effect. Cars lined both sides of the road and it was a one-lane road all the way to the dorm.

  “Darn. Is the whole school at the party?” Lexi looked around in total awe.

  “That’s nothing.” I motioned with my hand. “I think they only had about half the crowd they normally have.”

  “Seriously?” She checked in both directions as we crossed from one street to the next. Cars extended from one end of the stop sign to the other. Leaving no open spots for blocks.

  “Yeah. I think students are still out of town for the Thanksgiving holiday.”

  “Wow. I can’t even imagine a party with more people.”

  “What the hell is she crying about?” I ran a hand down my face, feeling more agitated by the minute.

  “Delaney, what’s wrong?” Lexi turned around in her seat.

  “He doesn’t want to talk to me. Ever,” Delaney cried.

  Lexi took Del
aney’s phone, glanced at it, and then handed it back to her.

  “She’s fighting with my brother,” Lexi sighed.

  “Call him for me,” Delaney begged.

  “No.” She adjusted her seat belt and stayed facing forward. When Lexi had her mind made up, it was obvious. “I’m not getting in the middle of this.”

  “But you have to tell him that I didn’t do anything wrong,” Delaney whimpered.

  “Why does he think you’ve done something wrong?” Lexi sounded as irritated as I felt.

  Delaney continued to cry like a baby. “Because he saw the pics I posted on Facebook and he thinks I hooked up with that guy.”

  “With Matt?” I shot Lexi a questioning gaze.

  “Who’s Matt?” Lexi pulled out her phone and scrolled through it. “Is this who you’re talking about?” She showed Delaney her phone.

  “Yes. I knew I shouldn’t have posted it.” She sniffed and then let out a huge hiccup.

  I pulled up to the dorm and parked in the loading zone. “Can I see?”

  Lexi handed me the phone. “That’s my friend, Matt Russell.” I scrolled through a few of the pictures and spotted one of Lexi and me, cheek to cheek. Lexi’s soft features and bright smile made her a perfect candidate for a beauty pageant. How had I gotten so lucky? “Hey, look at us.” I showed Lexi the picture.

  “Let me see that.” She slipped the phone from my hand and stared at the cute pose of us. “Aw. I want that pic.”

  I leaned closer to her, wishing we were by ourselves. “Tag me because I want it, too.”

  “How do you do that?” She looked at me like she had no clue was I referring to. “Sorry, I’m not on Facebook that often.”

  That explained why it took her so long to accept my friend request.

  “Oh.” I touched the screen. “Just tap on the picture and it will take you to another screen. See that thing that looks like a price tag at the bottom?”

  “Yes.”

  “Hit that and then tap the picture again.” A box appeared with several people’s names listed. “Now you can type our names.”

  “That’s easy.” She typed in her name and then mine.

  I pulled my phone from my pocket to see if it posted when Delaney yelled, “Open the door. I’m gonna hurl.”