Shift Happens

Piercing Gaze

   Bradley Uppercrust III's eyes narrowed as he watched Max walk away, a smug grin spreading across his face. He couldn't help but feel a spark of annoyance at the young man's cocky attitude. Who did he think he was, anyway? Just some punk kid who thought he could take him down? As he closed his sleek black sports car door, Bradley shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He wasn't here to think about some annoying little kid who thought he could take on the likes of him. He was here for one thing - to show off his ride and prove his dominance on the streets.

The engine roared to life as Bradley pulled out of the gas station, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the way his car was handled. This was what it meant to be a true street racing legend. He waited at the red light, quickly texting Tank that he was returning to the chapter house. He repeated the other's names in his head, "Max Goof eh... he did have a good car. Not good enough though" He said out loud patting his stirring wheel.

He pulled down the Greek sector and noticed many sororities out on their yards having stroll clinics or practicing stepping. The Greeks were preparing for the kickoff block party. He smirked rolling down his windows, he waved at people he knew. He was getting into the driveway of the Gamma Mu Mu house groaning. "Finally," Bradley muttered to himself, relieved to be back at the safety of his turf. He pulled into his designated parking spot, killing the engine and getting out of the car. As he walked towards the house, he couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. This was his domain, and everyone knew it.

He pushed open the door and was immediately greeted by the sounds of loud music and laughter. The Gamma Mu Mu chapter house was always bustling with activity, and today was no exception. Bradley made his way through the crowded living room, nodding to familiar faces as he went. He walked up to Tank who was on the couch playing video games. He patted his back before speaking up, "Man, are you ready for the race tonight? I ran into someone at the gas station who seemed a little bit too confident." Tank couldn't help but laugh before looking out the window. "Of course I am baby! Did you know the dude?"

Bradley shook his head before saying. "It was an underclassman, I had never seen him around school. I honestly want to keep it that way." He muttered in the last part, referring to their little encounter. He sighed before nudging Tank to hand him over to the other controller. "Let me join you" The two played Mario Kart as they talked about the exams before spring break, teachers, classes, and the chapter. Just as they were getting to the last round, Tank turned to Bradley and said, "Hey, I just got a text from one of the sororities. They're saying that they're not coming to the party unless we let them have control of the music and DJing."

Bradley's eyes narrowed as he put down the controller. "What? Are they kidding me? This is our party, not theirs." He shook his head in disgust. "We can't let them dictate what goes on at our party. We're the ones who are hosting it, after all." Tank nodded in agreement. "I know. But they're saying that they have a lot of influence on campus and that if we don't agree to their demands, they'll make sure that nobody else shows up either."

Bradley snorted. "Threats? That's cute. We're Gamma Mu Mu, for crying out loud. We're the most powerful fraternity on campus. We don't need to beg anyone for permission to do anything." Tank chuckled. "You're right, of course. But maybe we should at least pretend to consider their demands. Just in case." Bradley raised an eyebrow. "You mean pretend to compromise?" Tank nodded. "Yeah, exactly. We can say that we'll let them have control of the music and DJing for a little while, just to appease them. And then we can secretly bring in our DJ and take back control when they're not looking."

Bradley grinned mischievously. "Now that's what I call a plan."

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