Taming The Player

10

ERICA FREDRICK POV

As I bid farewell to my mother, I felt a mix of emotions: excitement for the new chapter ahead and sadness at leaving behind the familiar.

"I'll miss you so much, Mom," I said, as she enveloped me in a warm embrace.

"My baby is all grown up," she whispered, her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.

I took a deep breath, trying to reassure her. "I'll be fine, Mom. Take care of yourself while I'm away."

She placed a gentle kiss on my forehead. "I will, and you too. I love you."

"I love you too," I replied, as we shared a final goodbye before I drove away.

As I glanced back at the house, I felt a sense of liberation wash over me. I was headed to UCLA, a fresh start that I had been eagerly anticipating. California had grown on me in ways I never thought possible, and I was grateful for the unexpected turn of events that had led me to this place.

My mind wandered to Nathan, whom I hadn't heard from since... well, since everything had fallen apart. Scoot and Jared had also lost touch with him, and I couldn't help but wonder what had become of him.

The memory of the holidays spent alone in California still lingered, but as I arrived at the dorm house, a smile spread across my face. I had been looking forward to this moment for so long.

After collecting my room number and schedule, I returned to my car to gather my luggage. The sheer number of boxes and bags overwhelmed me, and I let out a frustrated sigh.

"How am I supposed to get all of this into my room?"

Just then, a familiar voice interrupted my thoughts. "Need a hand?"

I turned to see Easton standing behind me, a warm smile on his face. My heart skipped a beat as I rushed into his arms, feeling a deep sense of connection and gratitude.

"I've missed you so much," I whispered.

Easton held me tightly, his presence a comforting reminder that I wasn't alone. "I've missed you too," he replied, his voice low and soothing. "How have you been?"

I pulled back, trying to brush off the lingering feelings of loneliness. "A bit restless, to be honest. You all left me to my own devices."

He apologized, and I waved it off, asking, "What brings you here?"

He explained that he had arrived a day earlier and wanted to help me settle in.

"I appreciate the help, Easton, but I have to say, I'm a bit surprised you're here. You didn't think to let me know you'd arrived?"

Easton looked guilty, "I wanted to surprise you."

I smiled, "Fine, you're forgiven. But give me a kiss."

As Easton's lips met mine, the world around us melted away. The gentle pressure of his mouth on mine sent shivers down my spine, and I felt myself getting lost in the sensation. His kiss was slow and sensual, a tender exploration of my lips that left me breathless.

I deepened the kiss, my tongue entwining with his in a passionate dance. The warmth of his mouth enveloped me, and I felt my heart racing with excitement. It was as if time had stood still, and all that mattered was the connection between us.

Finally, Easton pulled away, his eyes locked on mine with a burning intensity. "I've missed you so much," he whispered, his voice husky with emotion.

I smiled, my lips still tingling from the kiss. "I've missed you too."