Chasing Forever

p a r t - f o u r

She never planned to join them tonight. Going to a club on a Tuesday night when you have class tomorrow isn't something sensible to do. She would rather stay at her apartment and prepare for the college. The new and unfamiliar world, she just became a part of.

But, as Aspen reached slowly to the place, where everyone was seated with Megan, the girl she literally met two days ago by her side, she found a completely different reason, why she shouldn't  have come.

The multi-colored lights were dim dancing with the people, smell of smoke and alcohol with numerous of different fragrances mixed, teased the air. But, suddenly, there was something else intoxicating in the atmosphere too.

Alaric adjusted on the plush sofa, laughing at something his friend had mutter secretly to him. Sipping his drink, he shook his head still chuckling, when suddenly, something or rather someone  caught his eyes.

A beautiful neon dress hugged her body, wrapped to it like second skin. That deep V-cut in front, revealed just enough smooth skin of her chest, to leave a man breathless and craving for more. Her luscious curls and long tanned legs, sexily walking towards them.

For a second, his eyes widen as he registered the sight in front of him. She was really there, coming closer and closer with his best friend clinging to her arm.

Aspen's palm became sweaty as nervousness finally kicked in. Was he... was he really there or she was imagining things? No, it couldn't be.

He looked just as handsome as ever. That white shirt he wore made his muscles stand out, flexing as he moved, black jeans never looked so good on anyone before. His soft as satin hair, demanded all the attention, were calling out to her, telling her to run her fingers through them, like she used to, loved to.

Just as they reached the table, "Heeyyy" Megan sang over the loud music, bouncing happily. 

Everybody turned their attention towards them. Aspen gulped down the nerves, forcing a smile on her face as her gaze again fell on him.  Recovering from the shock, Alaric too stared up and their eyes finally  met. 

A caught breathe, a forgotten beat and an inaudible prayer of two hearts.

"Guys, this is Aspen, she's new at our college, just transferred here. Be nice" Giving a pointed look to a shaggy haired guy, Megan announced, causing them to tear the eye contact.

Breaking into a nervous smile, she greeted, politely "Hello, everyone"

A chorus of 'Heys'  and 'Hellos'  swam around and they took a sit on the sofa. Aspen observed everyone carefully as Megan introduced them all in excitement.

"That's William" she pointed at a blond guy, who in return just gave a bored glance and continued drinking, "and that's Sierra, his fuck buddy" Megan let out a giggle.

The girl sitting beside William, with beautiful Asian features, scoffed at her and said "Shut up, Meg! How many times, do I have to tell you that I am not his fuck buddy?"

Megan just laughed more, brushing her off "Oh please, we all know that  you guys are fucking. It's no secret"

Aspen shifted uncomfortably on the sofa, aware of a pair of eyes pinned on her. She wanted to turn her head and talk to him, but, she was too scared to do so. Scared of the unknown.

"Well, I can introduce myself on my own" A throaty voice chimed in, then the guy with shaggy hair came up, sitting in front of her.

"Hello, gorgeous. I am Jace" He grinned, showing his perfectly white teeth and offered his hand.