Off Limits 18+

Chapter 18

Scarlet

We finished eating and parted ways to get to class on time. I couldn't wait to get a few days off for Thanksgiving. I was nervous about seeing Jordan but hoped he'd come around and nothing would be awkward. My brothers were my favorite people on the planet and I couldn't do this life without them.

I had talked to Ethan a couple of times and he invited me over tomorrow for dinner. Jordan wouldn't talk to me though and I wasn't sure when he would. He was never one to stay mad, especially at me. We could fight like cats and dogs but be laughing again by the end of the day. He was such an easy person to get along with. He was my guy, my go-to. My heart was breaking more every time he ignored me.

This was the 3rd semester that I had been studying Journalism. The last few months I had been slipping, my head wasn't in my classes at all. I was hoping to turn them into something decent before the semester ended though. Everything going on in my personal life was affecting my studies but I couldn't let that happen moving forward.

"When we return from break, we will be breaking into groups and will each be given a different topic to cover for our campus newsletter. Topics will vary and you are welcome to request things you are interested in via email and I will try my best to accommodate."

"This is a fantastic opportunity and one that I hope will be taken will a great deal of dedication. I've posted your partners on our classroom board, so check that out. It might be worth connecting with one another over break and seeing what the other may or may not be interested in, etc. Get a jump start on things. Have a great break." Dr. Williams said, closing his laptop.

Before leaving my seat I signed into our classroom portal to see who I would be partnering with, silently praying that our interests were similar and we could create something great.

"You're Scarlet, right?" A voice asked.

I lifted my head and caught the gaze of the boy who sat a couple rows in front of me. I remember him specifically because he was always bringing in the most incredible smelling coffee. He was a pretty boy, opposite of Chase. His hair had gel in it and he wore a fitted sweatshirt. He was tall, maybe even taller than Chase, which was instantly attractive. He had gorgeous tan skin and dark eyes.

"That's me." I smiled.

He smiled back. "I thought so. I'm Aaron. It looks like we're going to be partners."

"I was just about to check that out. It's nice to meet you," I said. "I think I've seen you in some of my other classes."

"The pleasure is all mine." His dark eyes sparkled as he met mine.

I stood and gathered my stuff, slinging my bag over my shoulder. "Should we exchange numbers or would email be better for you?"

I couldn't help but notice the slight smirk that played on his lips before he answered. "I'd love to exchange numbers. That would definitely be the fastest way for me to respond."

"Me too," I giggled.

I mentally scolded myself. Why are you giggling? How embarrassing.

We traded phones to exchange numbers and walked into the hallway. As I was typing my number into his phone I ran straight into another person. "Shit, I'm sor—" I looked up and stopped mid apology. "Chase?"

His eyes went back and forth between me and Aaron and it didn't escape my notice that he was eyeing my phone in Aaron's hand.

"I came to surprise you for your birthday."