I re-read the same sentence for the third time before shutting the book with a sigh. Knowing that Ethan could show up at the loft any minute was making me ridiculously antsy. I glanced at the clock again, the hands moving agonizingly slow toward eight o’clock. Even though it had been five days since overhearing his phone conversation, the sting of his duplicity was still fresh. I just wanted to get this over with so I could move on with the day.
Trying to distract myself, I watched Theo completing his homework at the dining table. It was odd seeing him in serious mode since he was usually so lighthearted. Of course, his clothes still gave off a fun-loving vibe. Today’s vintage tee was mostly covered by a casual tweed blazer, the sleeves pushed up to his elbows. His dark-wash jeans were once again rolled at the hem, displaying a pair of well-worn Converse sneakers. The combination probably would have looked odd on most guys but somehow looked effortlessly fashionable on Theo.
I was glad he volunteered to be my personal shopper and style guru. Now that I was starting a new life, however brief, I felt more motivated than usual to make an effort. And since I was visiting campus with Theo and Chase today, I even put a little extra time into diffusing my long, wavy hair and picking out the right outfit. Now, if I could just get rid of these stupid crutches . . .
As if on cue, I heard the front door open, and Ethan strolled in. My heart started pounding, a mixture of nerves and anticipation. He was the picture of confidence, dressed in dark slacks and, of course, a patterned button-down shirt.
I stood up to greet him and his eyes took me in from head-to-toe. “You look nice. But, I sort of miss seeing you dressed in my clothes,” he said with his trademark smirk.
Already embarrassed, I felt even more awkward when Theo came over and casually slung his arm around my shoulder. “Doesn’t she look great? And you haven’t even seen the good dress yet,” he said with a suggestive wiggle of his eyebrows.
I avoided Ethan’s gaze, unsure how he would react to Theo’s easy display of affection. “Is that so? I’m looking forward to it.” He took a step toward us, “Now, it’s time to look at that ankle. You’ve been using your crutches, right?” I nodded.
I took a seat on the couch, and Ethan sat down close enough that our knees were almost touching. He drew my leg up and rested it on his thigh while he examined my ankle. “Any pain when you put full weight on that foot?”
“Not for the last day or so. It feels much better.” I refused to look at him, hoping he wouldn’t realize how uncomfortable I was feeling around him.
He lightly ran his thumb over my ankle a few times, and I automatically looked up at him in surprise. From behind his glasses, his warm brown eyes searched mine, silently inquiring. Can he tell that I’m trying to avoid him?
“Well, as long as you’re not in pain, you can go without the crutches. But, I don’t want you to overdo it, which means no running yet.”
I moved my leg away from his. “Okay, thanks. It will be a relief just to walk normally again.”
Ethan looked at me for a long moment before standing. “It was nice to see you kids, but I’m late for work. See you later?” He was looking directly at me, so I nodded before saying good-bye.
After he left, I felt my anxiety melt away. Hopefully it would be easier by the next time I saw him. I knew I’d eventually have to confront him, but I wasn’t ready for that just yet.
Theo went into the kitchen and came back with a gift bag and a playful grin. “Here’s a little gift to celebrate kicking those crutches to the curb.”
“What? Theo, you really shouldn’t have.”
“Oh, shush. Are you trying to spoil my fun?” He pushed out his bottom lip into a small pout. “Please?”
Unable to resist his endearing charm, I laughed. “Fine.”
I opened the gift to find an adorable pair of cork sandals with a wedge heel. I slipped them on and buckled the ankle straps. They fit perfectly and were surprisingly comfortable.
I hopped up from the couch, my skirt fluffing gently with the movement. Wearing what felt like a goofy grin, I said, “Thank you, Theo. They’re perfect.”
He gave me wide smile. “Of course they are.” He tugged my hair gently. “Okay, let’s hit the road!”
* * *
Today we were riding in Theo’s Outback. We bypassed the highway and drove on side roads for maybe ten minutes before we reached the entrance to campus. It was clear that we had arrived when a large redwood sign greeted us: “University of California Santa Cruz.”
Driving over rolling hills nestled among the redwoods, we passed signs for various schools and even a campus farm. The roads and sidewalks were bustling with shuttle buses, students on bikes, others walking, and some in cars. As we drove, Theo threw in random bits about the campus and its history. I was amazed that the campus had over twenty-five miles of hiking trails.
We turned off the main road and headed toward a large building. Several stories tall, it was covered in large squares of alternating metal and glass. It reminded me of an enormous rectangular Rubik’s Cube. The bike rack was full, and students walked by, passing the sign that said “Engineering.”
I finally spotted Chase standing outside the building beneath a group of trees. Wearing khaki cargo shorts and a button-down chambray shirt rolled up to his elbows, Chase looked even better than I remembered. He had on a backpack, and his hands were grasping the straps; when he spotted Theo’s car, he smiled and waved. My heart fluttered happily in response.
Theo pulled up to the curb and Chase came around to open my door. I hopped out and saw his eyes widen as he quickly looked me over, making me blush slightly. He reached a strong arm around me for a quick one-armed hug. “Hi, Haley.” I smiled and squeezed back automatically, surprised not only by the impromptu hug but how natural it felt.
Theo waved at us from across the passenger seat. “I’m off to class. Catch up with you for lunch. Be good!”
As Theo drove off, I suddenly felt shy, and I sensed that Chase did as well. I busied myself watching the passing students, intrigued by their clothes and hair. Some hurried by, some listened to music, and others talked with fellow students or on their cell phones.
Chase cleared his throat. “I thought you might enjoy a day on campus. Fortunately it looks like you ditched the crutches. Are you up to a little bit of walking? Our campus is pretty spread out.”
I grinned and lifted my foot. “We will see about these shoes Theo gave me, but it would be nice to stretch my legs.”
Walking in the shade of the redwoods, the sun gently warmed us, but the air was cool and clear. I couldn’t imagine a more beautiful campus. As we walked, Chase pointed out various buildings, from exercise facilities to student centers and dorms. Absorbed in the tour, I was startled when we were suddenly engulfed by students that swarmed into the courtyard outside.
Chase shook his head. “Class must have just let out. Stay close.”
Surrounded by so many people was unlike anything I had ever experienced; I was immersed in their colors, their smells, their voices. Overwhelmed by the sheer number of people, I felt like a fish swimming upstream against the current. I was thankful to have Chase at my side as we moved through the crowd. His arm briefly brushed against mine, and my skin tingled in response.
Amazed, I spoke, mostly to myself. “So. Many. People.”
Despite the chatter of other students, Chase must have heard my remark. He laughed gently and looked toward me before a look of concern clouded his face.
Once we had cleared the path of the other students, he gently touched my back. “You okay?”
Slightly out of breath but grinning, I responded. “Yeah, just not used to seeing many, well any, people, really.”
He nodded knowingly, one side of his mouth lifting. “We have a decent number of students on campus, around 17,000.” I felt my eyes widen. That’s more people than the combined population of Coleville and Minden, plus some.
Past the crush of students, it didn’t take me long to relax again and enjoy the scenery. Despite feeling overwhelmed at first, being around other people was a rush. I felt energized by the movement and the sheer newness of the experience.
After a quick tour of the library and a stop by the outdoor pool, it was almost time to meet Theo for lunch. For the second or third time since I had been on campus, a girl smiled at Chase. But when she looked at me, I felt like she was sizing me up. I didn’t stop to dwell on it; thanks to all the walking and the excitement, my stomach was growling.
As we neared the café, Chase dug his hands in his pockets. “I’m glad to see you enjoying yourself. I hope now that you’re here we’ll get to hang out under more normal circumstances.”
I rolled my eyes playfully. “Yeah, normal circumstances.” I paused and spoke again with a more serious tone. “I would like that. Maybe I can beat you again at Monopoly.” I smirked.
Before Chase could respond, Theo showed up. Theo was full of energy despite a full morning of classes. He led us upstairs before stopping to open a glass door with the name “Terra Fresca” etched on it. Theo said it was one of his favorites on campus because it was a little nicer than the dining halls and offered table service.
Regardless of the food, I could see the allure of the café. The inside was cozy with upholstered chairs, small round tables, bookshelves, and even a fireplace. Large windows overlooked the forest and sunshine poured through the trees. Groups of students clustered around tables eating and conversing.
We sat at a round table and quickly ordered before Theo started talking again. “So, Haley. Have your major picked out yet?”
I snorted, the idea of me going to college seemed preposterous. And yet, I thought, here I am.
Theo pouted. “Come on, at least humor me and tell me what you would pick.”
Without hesitating, I replied. “Astronomy.”
Theo smiled. “Now that wasn’t so hard, was it?”
“Your turn. What’s your major?”
Chase laughed as if I had made a joke. Theo glared at him before turning to me. “Mr. Studious thinks it’s funny that I’ve changed my major once or twice because I couldn’t narrow down my many interests.”
Chase nodded. “‘Many’ might even be an understatement. In the past few years, you’ve started rock climbing, tango dancing, and cycling. You originally enrolled as an anthropology major, quickly switched to philosophy, then considered linguistics before finally settling on the history of art and visual culture, whatever that means.”
I laughed as Theo elbowed Chase. “Okay, thank you. I think we get the point.” He straightened, lifting his chin proudly. “I prefer to see myself as a modern-day Renaissance man.”
I sipped my water and set it on the table. “So what exactly is the history of art and . . . whatever Chase said?”
“It’s basically traditional art history on steroids. Since images can play a role in perceptions or a reflection of a belief or value, they give us clues as to what is important not only to the society they were created for but also the creator. In other words, we study images from the past and present—whether a painting, video game, or even a tattoo—and consider the social impact.”
The waiter finally arrived with our food. We were all so hungry that we dug in and the conversation lapsed momentarily. When I finally slowed down, I saw yet another student in a “Banana Slugs - No Known Predators” T-shirt walk by.
Many students wore graphic tees, but I kept seeing this one in particular, and it stuck out to me. Looking at Theo and Chase, I bit my lip before speaking. “Speaking of images, what’s up with those T-shirts?” I inclined my head toward a passing student wearing one. “Don’t they know that raccoons eat banana slugs?”
Chase and Theo glanced at each other, scarcely suppressing surprise and amusement. They both started to speak before Chase nodded to Theo to take over. “First, don’t hate on banana slugs; they are our revered and feared mascot.” I couldn’t resist laughing before Theo shot me a playful stink eye.
He paused to pick up some food on his fork and then pointed it at me. “Second, why do you know so much about banana slugs?”
I shrugged. “Growing up, my dad and I went for walks in the forest. We had a deal, a game, really. Whenever I encountered something new, he told me the name only. I could ask any questions I wanted, but he would only answer ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ After returning home, I’d usually research the plant, animal, bug, whatever.”
Even Theo was silent for a moment, his eyebrow raised. Was my admission that strange? The waiter returned to refill our drinks, and I was thankful for the distraction.
At the unexpected memory of my dad, I felt a pang of guilt. Although I was happy to be here, I hated that it came at such a high cost. I would trade all of my new experiences just to know that my dad was okay. Hit with a sudden wave of sadness, I picked at my food while Chase and Theo talked.
When I heard Chase mention Jackson, my ears perked up. “Speaking of Jackson, have you guys heard when I am going to start work? He spoke to me about the job when I met him a few days ago, but I haven’t heard anything since.”
Chase shook his head. “No, but he’s been kind of busy. He did mention that we should all come to his uncle’s house this weekend to hang out. You could talk to him about it then, or I can call him now, if you want.”
“No, that’s fine. I’ll talk to him this weekend.” Relieved that I’d have a chance to find out more in a few days, my mind wandered to the many other questions I had about what the guys did and where they worked. There was one that immediately came to mind, and it was out of my mouth before I even realized it. “Jackson kept referring to the ‘team’; how many of you are there?”
Between bites, Chase answered, “Six.” Six? Holding my hand under the table, I counted. Chase, Ethan, Knox, Theo, Jackson. Realizing that was only five, I wondered what the sixth member of their team was like.
Theo said, “I forgot you haven’t met Liam yet! He’s going to love you!”
Interested to learn more, but deciding to move on, I asked, “So, what can you tell me about my new employer? I realized after talking to Jackson that I don’t even know the name of the company.” I kept my voice even, hoping they wouldn’t realize the depth of my curiosity.
Chase and Theo exchanged a subtle look, and I caught a twinge of hesitation on Chase’s face.
Theo responded, “Well, that one is easy. The name of the company is Zenith. We work at the San Jose branch, but there are also branches in a few other states. The office is located in a skyscraper downtown.”
“Zenith, huh? I like the celestial name.” When they both looked slightly confused, I continued, “You know, a zenith, the highest point in the sky?”
Chase nodded, “Oh yeah, I guess I’m so used to hearing the name that I forget its meaning.” He paused. “You weren’t kidding about choosing astronomy as your major, huh? You seem to really like the subject.”
I nodded. “That would be putting it mildly, but yes.” I refused to say more, not wanting to admit the extent of my obsession.
Theo clapped his hands together. “This is awesome! Do you know how popular stars and celestial bodies are right now? I am already picturing clothes and jewelry that we can buy for you!”
I smiled and shook my head. We just went on a mini shopping spree and he was already buying me shoes and thinking about what to purchase next.
When the waiter arrived to retrieve our plates, Theo spoke. “I’ve got lunch; you guys go ahead. I know you have some stuff to work on, Chase.”
I reached to pull out my wallet, but Theo immediately objected. “Haley, what do you think you’re doing? Put that away before I throw it in the trash.” I rolled my eyes at his extreme reaction.
Theo grinned mischievously. “Don’t think I wouldn’t; you need a new one.”
I hunched slightly. “Are you sure I can’t pay for my share?”
He glared at me. “Absolutely.” He paused, placing a credit card with a giant cartoony banana slug in the leather folio.
As we pushed in our chairs, Theo looked pointedly at Chase. “Don’t let her out of your sight. I’ve seen quite a few guys checking her out. Maybe I shouldn’t have let her out of the house in that dress.” He winked at me, and I felt heat rising from my chest to my face.
I was quiet on the drive back to the loft. What would Dad think if he could see me now? I thought about all of the things that had changed in the past week: a new city, different clothes, friends, and even a job. Would he see these things as proof that I could live a “normal” life? Was this even normal, surrounded by five (soon to be six) guys, always guarded by at least one of them?