Who I Was Before Asher Caine.

Chapter Three.

School went on just as any normal day would, and now I'm sitting in my closet, staring at my wardrobe. Do I even own anything other than sweatpants? Nova is minutes away, and I feel my stomach tying itself in knots. Ian and I were texting earlier, and he is acting weird. He keeps mentioning that he doesn't want me to change and that he would like for us to talk about it more in person.

"It was nice meeting you guys!" Nova hurries into my room, wearing black shorts with a red flannel, underneath you'll find a black lace bralette.

She glances at me then at my closet, and it's clear to tell that I am currently having a mental breakdown.

"You, goody, are a hot mess." She laughs before helping me pick an outfit. Not that it's shocking, but it takes an hour before Nova realizes that I have nothing under the 'sexy' category in my room.

She eventually finds a pair of my mom jeans and pairs it with a white long sleeve. I don't give her an option on hairstyle and makeup. My hair is staying in a messy bun whether she likes it or not, and I don't own much makeup other than mascara.

I tell my parents that we are going to dinner and a study session with some friends from our school, but it doesn't feel right. The last time I lied to my parents was when Karter and I broke our neighbors' window while attempting to play catch, and even then I couldn't lie because I broke down and told the truth an hour later. Karter was livid, of course. I just don't like the idea of lying, I think it just causes more problems, However, they would kill me if they knew their little perfect princess was doing anything but studying.

I sent Ian the address and told him we were on our way, but, he doesn't respond. The destination is on the college campus, about thirty minutes from my house. There are so many cars parked outside, and you could probably hear the music from a mile away. I send Ian another text saying that I was here and asking when he would be here, but he doesn't reply, again.

I follow Nova into the large house, where we eventually found the friends from yesterday.

"Hey whores! You guys remember Goody?" She smiles as they all acknowledge me.

"Have you guys seen Caine? He said he was here and I have to talk to him." Cameron interrupts, aggressively texting.

Before anyone can reply, a boy walks towards us. His figure is fit, his skin is covered in tattoos, and his dark curly hair falls perfectly. He exudes confidence in himself. He honestly looks like he is never up to any good.

"Oh look, Caine has finally decided to make his appearance!" Nova laughs, nudging her elbow into me.

Caine.

He rolls his eyes before meeting mine, causing my body temperature to rise. I am too frozen to introduce myself. He clearly notices this because a smirk forms on his lips. The fact that he even notices me standing here, staring at him, makes my breathing shallow and my heart race. The only thing that breaks my stare, is an arm around my shoulders. I quickly look to see who is invading my personal space, and thank god for my heart because it is Ian himself. Everyone is now staring in utter shock.

"Kataline, I know we said you could brin-"

"I'm so sorry, I didn't know there was tension! He is the first person I met, and I thought this would be easier!" I interrupt Nova as my panic sets in.

Ian's face is now pale, and Caine lets out a chuckle.

"We said you could bring someone, but we weren't expecting horse!" Anastasia chimes in.

I stand confused as everyone laughs, then it finally clicks. She called him horse. My eyes are now so wide, they are practically popping out of my head. Ian's face screams pure embarrassment.