Campus Player

She jerks her slender shoulders as a wave of sadness crashes over her features. “I think we’re both tired of the drama. It’s become soul-sucking, and I don’t have the energy for it anymore.”

Holy shit. This is the first time I’ve heard her say that. Sydney had crushed on Ethan all last year, and when they finally got together this summer, it seemed like they were really happy.

At first.

And then the bickering started, followed by the constant whirlwind of breakups and makeups. It was exhausting, and I was the one sitting on the sidelines.

“Wow.” I have to admit that I’m shocked by the sudden turn of events. Although...let’s see if it sticks. Those two are like magnets. They’re either pulling at each other or forcing the other away.

“I know.” She nods, understanding my reaction. “I think it’ll be good to be on my own for a while.”

Woah. Talk about another curveball. Sydney has been a serial dater since I met her. She hops from one guy to the next without blinking her eyes. I rack my brain, trying to figure out if I’ve ever known a single Sydney. This will be a first.

“I agree. It almost sounds like,” I pause for a moment, “you’re making a mature decision.”

Laughter bubbles up in her throat. “I know, right?” It doesn’t take long before she sobers again. “I really do like Ethan...” her voice trails off, and her brow furrows as if she’s trying to work out a complicated math equation in her head.

“But?” I prompt when she remains silent.

She blinks, and her gaze refocuses on me. “I don’t think we’re very good together.”

That is the understatement of the year. And the thing is, they’re great people on their own, just not as a couple. For reasons I don’t understand, they bring out the worst in each other.

With any luck, the breakup will stick this time.

“I really am sorry.” Even when you’re the one making the decision to walk away, the demise of a relationship is still painful. “Are you sure about going out tonight? We could always chill here. Rent a few movies, order pizza, and dive headfirst into cartons of chocolate ice cream. You know, all the things that are supposed to help you move on.”

She snorts before shaking her head. “No, I need to get out and get my mind off of it. If I sit at home, all I’ll do is mope and eat. It’ll turn into an ugly cycle.” She pats her behind. “My ass can’t take that.”

“Please.” I roll my eyes. “Your ass is amazing.”

She waves a hand in my direction. “Plus, you’re dressed to slay. There’s no way in hell we’re wasting that.”

As much as I want to see Rowan tonight, if Sydney needed to stay in, I’d do it in a heartbeat. She’s always stood staunchly by my side. How could I not be there for her in her moment of need?

“Are you absolutely sure?” I search her gaze. “I don’t mind.”

“Nope, it’s all good.” She heads for the door. “Let me throw on something party-appropriate, and we can hit the road. I’m sure Rowan has already texted you half a dozen times, wondering where you’re at.”

My brows draw together as I glance at my cell on the nightstand. It’s been strangely silent for the last couple of hours. No chirping or dinging to speak of. I swipe it from the small table and glance at the dark screen. Rowan hasn’t texted or called at all today. I’m the one who reached out earlier to firm up our plans, and his reply was abnormally brief.

I stare at my phone as a kernel of unease settles in the pit of my belly before quickly pushing it away.

What am I worrying about?

So what if he hasn’t checked-in?

Just because we’re going out doesn’t mean we’re attached at the hip. Even when I’m in a relationship, I’ve always maintained my independence. I’ve never been one of those girls who loses themselves in a guy. And I don’t want to start now. It takes effort to shake away the concern that has taken root inside my brain. As soon as I see him, everything will fall back into place.

I add a little bit of coppery eyeshadow and shimmery lip gloss before checking myself out one last time in the mirror. Normally, I throw my hair up into a ponytail because it’s easy. I’m all about low maintenance. But tonight, I’ve straight ironed my long lengths, so they fall down my back in a shiny dark curtain.

Even I have to admit that I’m looking pretty damn good. Sydney’s right—I am so getting laid tonight.

Twenty minutes later, we walk arm in arm up the front steps of the house that Rowan shares with a bunch of guys from the football team. Sydney has pulled out all the stops. Her long blond hair has been curled and falls in soft waves around her shoulders. She’s wearing a dark green shirt that hugs her curves and makes her emerald-colored eyes pop. The short denim skirt barely covers her ass as the black leather boots stretch over her calves.