ZOEY’S POV

Ever since Adam introduced Theo as his best friend and housemate, he never ceased to taunt me at any slightest chance he got. It was funny to me that the girls in our college thought him handsome and charming. If they knew how big of a bully he was, they wouldn’t be tripping for someone like him.

“Isn’t he so hot?” Farrah squirmed, staring at Theo’s and Adam’s photo on her phone.

“You must be sick, Farrah.” I shook my head, grabbing my backpack, ready to leave as our classes were cancelled.

“Admit it, Zoey. Theo and Adam are hotties. You’re lucky you got one as your brother and the other as your brother’s best friend.” Her eyes remained glued to the phone and I couldn’t help but sigh.

I could see that Farrah had finally joined other college girls in falling for fuck boys like my brother and his best friend.

“I’m leaving for the cafeteria,” I rose to my feet. “You can keep staring at them.”

“What, no! You can’t leave me here!” She yelled, grabbing her back pack also. “Let’s leave for the cafeteria then, I’m so hungry.”

A laugh tore off my lips at her sudden change in attitude. “What should we choose? I’m so tired of the boring menu in the cafeteria.”

Her lips formed into a pout and her brows arched, a sign of her displeasure which only made me chuckle even more. Before I could give her a reply, my phone dinged and when I checked whose message it was, it turned out to be from Adam. My older brother.

‘Come down to the lodge. I need you to do something for me.’

I frowned upon reading the message. Why would the almighty Adam of the hockey team need the help of his nerd little sister?

“Farrah, you’d need to go to the cafeteria alone. Adam wants me at his lodge.”

Farrah heaved a sigh, her displeasure obvious. “I guess I will have to go on my own.”

“I’m really sorry.”

I grabbed my backpack and left the class, heading to the sports lodge.

The walk from the campus to the sports lodge took about five minutes and once I arrived, I headed to the football and Hockey team lodge.

Ever since I became a student at MCcall College, I kept wondering why the football and Hockey team lodge were merged together.

If anything, hockey and ice skating should be together, since both sports are played on ice. But it turned out my question would never get an answer, because no one was interested in telling me, not even Adam, my brother.

Upon arriving at the entrance door to the lodge, I paused and inhaled sharply before placing a knock on the door.

It’d be rude of me to barge into a lodge filled with boys, who might probably be naked or shirtless.

I would rather let the earth swallow me than embarrass myself in front of hundreds of boys—naked boys.

My brows furrowed when I didn’t get a response. Adam specifically asked for my present at the lodge, so he was expected to respond when I got there but why wasn’t anyone responding?

Raising my folded knuckles to the door, I placed a knock once again, this time I got a response.

Initially, it wasn’t a response but a groan from someone, like I had just interrupted their alone moment.

“Adam? Adam, is that you?” I asked but got no reply this time.

Without wasting as much as a second, I grabbed the door knob and pushed it open.

I thought it was Adam who groaned like he was sick, that was why I was prompted to push the door open, but when I did, I almost regretted it.

First; there was no one in the lodge, well, except for one.

Two; when I heard someone groaned, I thought it was my brother, so I hastily pushed the door open.

Third; Turned out that the person who groaned like I had interrupted their moment was my brother’s best friend, Theo.

He was dressed in a hoodie and his hair damped. His rumpled hair made him look like a rag doll and that earned a chuckle from me.

I wasn’t meant to chuckle, at least not in that kind of situation. I was supposed to ask him where Adam was and why he needed me to do something for him.

“Why are you here, Zoey?” His deep voice rang out, snapping me out of my daze. “Adam is not here.”

“Exactly.” I nodded, meeting his gaze. “I got a text from him. He wants me here so I can help him with something.”

“Call him, then. You just interrupted me.”

For a second, I saw his eyes blazed with anger, but it disappeared as fast as it came.

“Well, then, I’m not sorry. If you need someone to blame, Adam should be the one.” I rolled my eyes as I reached for my phone in my cross bag.

I dialed Adam’s line but he didn’t pick it up. Not the first call and neither the second.

If he wasn’t going to be in the lodge, why would he call me to help him?

All I wanted was to leave the lodge as I couldn’t stand a minute with Theo.

Just when I was about to call for the third time, a message popped in and upon reading it, my pupils dilated in shock.

‘You need to help Theo. You both have to kiss.’

“You’ve got to be kidding me, Adam!” I smiled. A smile of disbelief. “Why would I do that!”

“Why are you screaming? Can you please lower your voice? No one is screwing your pussy,” Theo’s face twisted in anger, his nostrils flaring. “Easy there, tigress.”

I had no idea why he was suddenly mad because I doubt it was because of my sudden burst into the lodge.

My gaze narrowed on Theo as I asked, “you know about this, don’t you?”

“From my knowledge, Zoey, I don’t think I owe you an explanation.” He simply said as he rose to his feet, throwing his hands into his pants.

“Adam wants us to do it together!” I stomped my feet to the ground.

“And why can’t you say it?” He snapped his head toward my direction, his jaw clenched. “Are we fucking? So why can’t you say what Adam needs us to do?”

“He wants us to kiss!” I yelled. “This might not be a big deal for you because I know you don’t give a flying fuck about it, but it is a big deal for me!”

“And why is it a big deal? I doubt this is your first kiss.” His lips stretched into a smirk. “You were good at masturbating, so I doubt you’ve not had your first kiss.”

Raising my hand, I raked it into my hair in frustration. “Why would Adam want us to kiss? Why?”

Even if I was to do it, at least there should be a reason. I can’t just let Theo kiss me like a worthless whore without giving me a detailed explanation on why we had to do it.

“Why not ask your brother? I told him not to do this because I can handle it myself, but he insisted.”

“And what is that fucking thing!” I stomped my feet once again but Theo’s eyes darkened.

His dark gaze met mine and for a second, I couldn’t breath.

The way his gaze ceased me up, I forgot how to breathe.

“You don’t raise your voice at me, Zoey. If you do, I will make you regret it.” He drew, taking slow but steady steps towards me.

While he neared where I stood, I took a step backwards until my back hit the wall.

A gasp escaped my lips as he towered over me like a god, while I looked like an insect in front of him.

“My Mom is coming over to Boston and she wants me to be with my girlfriend during her visit, if not, I will have to go on different blind dates,” he paused and leaned forward, meeting my gaze on equal length.

“And what does that have to do with me?” I muttered, feeling my fingers clutching the side of my dress. “Why do I have to help you?”

“You don’t have to, Zoey.” Theo let out the closest thing to a smile….. a smirk. “You can leave now and I won’t stop you.”

Immediately those words left his lips, I was tempted to run and never look back, but why was my legs not moving willingly?

They were frozen to the ground, unable to move an inch.

“What’s wrong? You also want a taste of my lips?” His full brows arched as he narrowed his gaze. “Leave, Zoey. I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Who said you’re hurting me? I will help you because my brother asked me to.” I blurted out without thinking and not until the words left my lips before I realized what I had done.

There was no going back again. I shouldn’t have offered to help. Why should I help someone I consider my enemy?

“Well then, thanks for your help,” He leaned a bit closer. So close enough our breaths mingled. “Thanks to your brother, I get to taste your lips.”

Without any warning or whatsoever, he captured my lips, kissing and nibbling on my lower lips like he had been waiting for this moment all his life.

My eyes were still wide open in shock, while he kissed me.

My heart began to race in discomfort but I couldn’t push him away because I agreed to it.

“Fucking kiss me back, Zoey.”

My eyes snapped shut afterwards as I reciprocated the kiss. One I detest so much.

ZOEY'S POV

The kiss had lasted for barely a minute. It was almost sixty seconds of heat, confusion, and everything I didn’t want to feel.

The moment I came to my senses, I pulled back, my heart hammering against my chest and without hesitation, I slapped Theo hard across the face.

The sound echoed inside the sport lodge and this was followed by a deafening silence that lasted for a minute.

I watched as his head jerked slightly. I could see the red mark blooming on his cheek as a result of the hit.

Unsure of what was going to happen next, I staggered backwards, staring at him with my mouth slightly parted.

All the while, I had my gaze fixated on him. I wanted him to talk, to just say anything or flinch to show he was affected by the hit but he did not say anything.

He just stood there, his eyes unreadable.

“You don’t get to do that,” I hissed, wiping my lips like they burned. “Don’t you ever come near me again.” I broke the silence between us, wielding my middle finger in his face.

Still, he didn’t speak. He was just staring at me like he was daring me to mean what I said.

His attitude made my stomach churn as anger mixed with irritation ran through my veins.

After a few more minutes of glaring at him, I turned on my heel and then stormed out of the lodge, my chest tight as my hands trembled.

No matter how much I tried, I just couldn't control my rage, I felt like I was blowing up.

His look was neatly stamped in my head and the fact that I couldn't shake it off made me even more livid.

I hated that he looked so calm. I hated that the kiss had… meant something and for that one stupid minute, I had wanted it.

Still raving with anger, I stormed towards the cafeteria but before I walked through the door, I had plastered the fakest smile I could manage.

Standing by the door, I allowed my eyes to scan the large room until I saw Farrah waving at me with a large smile plastered on her face which I returned.

She must have been waiting for me and so without wasting any more time, I rushed towards the table.

“Girl, you look like you just ran a marathon,” she said as I dropped into the seat across from her.

I forced a laugh, throwing my head sideways so she wouldn't see my face properly, “It’s nothing, just practice.” I replied, returning my gaze to her with a smug look.

Pushing a chip into her mouth, she said, “You were gone for almost an hour. And you look like you’re about to throw something at someone.”

I shoved a spoonful of mashed potatoes into my mouth just to avoid answering.

My face felt hot and my whole body was still buzzing from the aftermath of that kiss, and the slap.

Leaning forward with her hands folded in front of her, Farrah narrowed her eyes at me, “What happened?”

“Nothing,” I lied through my teeth, forcing a smile to placate her and put an end to the questioning but I should have known better.

“Zoey…” She called with a raised brow.

“I’m fine,” I snapped a little too fast as I was angry she was pushing forward with it.

With a softened look now, I mumbled, “I’m telling the truth.” I groaned and with a shrug, said, "I’m just tired.”

Farrah didn’t buy it. I could see it in her face and demeanour but she dropped it at least for now.

At the end of the last class for the day, I rushed home, hoping and praying that my parents had finally returned.

Last night before going to bed and early this morning, I had tried to reach mom but she didn't pick her calls.

I had even texted her but still it was the same result. I bet she was so busy that she didn't even have time to check her phone.

But still she should have created time for me despite her busy schedule.

They had been gone for over a week now on that so-called “urgent business trip.” I had missed them so much even if I had never said it out loud.

I needed the normalcy of having my father and mother around, I needed someone who would ask how my day was without ulterior motives or tension hanging in the air.

When I got home I kicked the door in, revealing a dark, cold and empty house.

Rolling my eyes, I slammed the door shut, dropped my bag on the couch and with a sigh, I fished out my phone from my jacket.

Without hesitation, I dialed my mom’s number, praying she would pick up this time around but it was a repeat of what had happened the previous day.

Just when I was about to give up calling, she picked up on the third ring and immediately, I let out the breath I had been holding back.

“Why are you calling?” That was the first words that left her lips, making my chest tightened.

I’ve never had a mother and daughter relationship with my Mom. She’d rather drown herself in heaps of files, than spend time with me.

My stomach sank at her words. “You’re still not home.” I spoke with an accusatory tone.

There was a brief pause before she answered, “Things are a little complicated over here.”

Slowly, I lowered myself on the arm of the couch, hoping nothing had gone wrong, “What’s going on?”

There was another pause, then my father’s voice came onto the line.

“Zoey, listen.” He started, his voice low and stern. “We won’t be coming home until after two months. We have a lot of businesses to deal with over here.”

“Two months? Are you serious?” I gasped, my breath hitched in my throat as my heartbeat doubled.

“We know it’s not ideal,” Mom added. “But you stay with Adam for a while until we’re back.”

I blinked trying to wrap my head around what I had just heard, “Adam? As in, my brother?” I asked for confirmation.

“Yes.”

“And his best friend?”

Another silence came through and it said everything which made my pulse spike.

“You mean Theo. The same Theo I slapped across the face this afternoon.”

“You what?” Mom gasped. “You’re becoming a brat, Zoey and I won’t tolerate such!” Mom snapped.

“Never mind,” I quickly said. “Why can’t I just stay home? I’m not a child anymore, I can take care of myself.”

“For goodness sake, I’m in my second year in college." I huffed.

“It’s all up to you. But just so you know, if anything happens to you while you’re alone, that’s on you. We won’t be responsible.”

I stared at the wall, my jaw clenched as anger boiled through my veins.

“So I don’t get a say?” I was barely keeping my anger in check now. I fear I was going to erupt soon.

“You don’t. You’ve always been an obedient child. Don’t change.” Mom responded, her voice edged with anger.

I was furious and wasn't prepared to hear anymore so I hung up, tossing my phone on the couch before throwing myself down and screaming into a cushion.

Of all the possible outcomes, living with Adam was something I dreaded but I could manage.

But Theo? After what happened between us? After that kiss, that slap and that look he gave me?

Hell no!

The more I thought of it, the more emptier the house felt. I thought of calling Farrah, but I couldn’t find the words to explain the mess I was in.

Why can't I stop thinking about Theo’s mouth on mine?

Why am I remembering the way his hand had gently cupped the back of my neck, like he meant it?

And worse, what did it mean that I didn’t hate it?

I told myself over and over again that he was the enemy. The guy who always got under my skin, teased me, irritated me.

He was the guy who made me feel like I was always one second away from slapping or kissing him again.

I lay on the couch, staring at the ceiling.

If things went my parents way, in less than 24 hours, I would be packing up and moving in with the two people who drove me crazy in completely different ways.

ZOEY’S POV

Boredom had clawed its way into my chest like an infection. It has been two days since I spoke to my parents, yet I haven’t made a move to pack my stuff and move in with Adam.

Mom must have probably told Adam about it so I made sure I ignored him like my life depended on it. And to subside the boredom I felt, I scrolled through my phone endlessly.

Adam would have pushed with it but at the moment, he was busy with classes and gym commitments.

Theo on the other hand existed like a shadow. He was always irritating because that was how he always made me feel.

The worst part? He acted like nothing had happened. Like that kiss and my slap had been some mild afternoon drama.

So when Farrah texted me about the frat party, I didn’t even hesitate.

Frat party tonight, so come get wasted with me before we both die of boredom. Also: slut fits required. No negotiations. This was the text she sent to me that afternoon.

Since it was the weekend and I was left with zero better options, I agreed.

When it was time, I threw on a tight black crop top and a skirt that barely covered anything. I would be lying if I said I didn’t want Theo to see me and regret ever messing with my head.

But I was sure as hell he wouldn’t be at the party. Adam definitely wasn’t coming, and Theo usually stuck close to him as they were like two peas in a pod.

When we arrived, the frat house was already packed full. Music thudded through the walls, the smell of beer and sweat was thick in the air.

Farrah squealed as she dragged me inside and I followed without hesitation.

Neon lights flickered across the living room where bodies writhed like snakes on a dance floor too small for this many people.

We found a spot near the drinks table and Farrah immediately poured something cheap and fruity into two red cups and handed me one.

“To make more bad choices,” she cheered, lifting her cup above her head.

Mimicking her, I said, “And to pretend we have our lives together.” We clinked and drank.

Everything was fine at first. It was loud, chaotic, and mind numbingly until I saw him.

Theo.

He stepped into the room like he owned it, dressed in black jeans and a fitted gray tee shirt that clung to him like it wanted to live on his skin.

At that instant, my chest went cold as I cursed under my breath. “Of all nights…”

Farrah raised a brow, “Isn’t that—?”

“Don’t,” I snapped.

He walked past the crowd and locked eyes with me immediately but I looked away, sipping my drink and pretending not to care.

But my throat was suddenly dry, and my stomach started doing that flip thing again. It was the only thing my stomach ever did around him.

As if I haven't had enough, one of the girls standing near us jumped to her feet and yelled Theo’s name.

She threw her arms around him and pulled him close and he didn’t resist.

The girl sat right on his thigh like he was her personal throne and started grinding on him like they were behind closed doors.

I tried not to look, I tried to act like it didn’t matter but I failed miserably. My gaze flicked back to him, just once and that was enough as our eyes met.

The girl on his thigh turned her face toward his, leaning in to kiss him but still, his eyes didn’t leave mine. I felt like someone had shoved a brick into my throat.

Why did it hurt? He wasn’t mine so I had no right feeling this way.

When I couldn't take it anymore, I pushed my chair back, “I need air,” I muttered, grabbing Farrah’s arm.

“You okay?”

“I just need to step out.” She didn’t need to respond as I slipped through the crowd and then out of the door.

Outside, the night was cold. With my hands wrapped around myself, I leaned against the porch rail.

Why the hell did I feel like this?

Jealousy? Heartache? What right did I even have to be upset? I was the one who slapped him, I was the one who said he should stay away.

“Hey,” a low voice called out from the shadows and I turned to face the owner of the voice.

A guy stood by the edge of the house, smoking like he was trying to set the building ablaze. Thick smoke billowed from his lips, and his eyes glittered under the porch light.

“You’re Zoey, right?” he said, flicking ash onto the gravel.

I didn’t answer, I kept staring instead.

“You’re hot,” he added, stepping closer. “Gimme your number.”

“Not interested.” I rolled my eyes and then turned to leave but he moved fast.

One second I was heading back inside, the next, his hand shot out and grabbed my wrist.

“Don’t be rude, baby,” he said, pulling me toward himself, his body pressed against mine.

Disgust rose in my throat, “Let go.” I hissed, trying to wriggle from him but he didn’t instead his grip tightened.

“You think you’re too good to talk to me?”

I shoved at his chest but he didn’t budge and that’s when I felt fear. Real, creeping fear that was about to knock me out but then I heard his voice

“Back off.” Theo hissed.

Relief poured into me like warm water. The grip on my wrist loosening immediately but not because the guy suddenly respected boundaries.

But because Theo was already grabbing him by the neck.

Theo slammed him against the wall of the porch with enough force to rattle him. His face twisted with rage as he drew back and punched him hard across his face.

He didn't stop there, he pushed him again, and then again but before he could repeat his action, I yelled, “Theo stop!” I shouted, grabbing his arm but he wasn’t listening.

When he finally stopped, the guy slumped to the ground, groaning as blood trickled from his nose. Theo stood over him, his chest heaving with his fists still clenched.

“She is not like those other girls so don't touch her,” he growled and then turned to me.

“Why are you doing this?” I huffed. “Why do you even care?”

“You know why.”

“No, I don’t! You let that girl grind on you like I wasn’t even in the room!” I said even before I could realize.

“You think I wanted that?”

“You didn’t stop her!”

“Because I was trying not to do this!” he shouted. “Not to fall into this mess with you again!”

“I don’t mean anything to you. You made that clear.” I snapped.

“And who told you that?” he shot back at me.

“I didn’t need anyone to, I can see it.”

He stared at me for a long time and with a quiet and rough voice, he said, “Move in with us. This happened because you’re alone. I can't allow it to happen again.”

“Why would I live with my enemy?” I scoffed, crossing my hands on my chest.

“I’ll leave instead,” he said. “Just… stay close to your brother, Leika.”

The way he said my name made my whole body stutter. The anger, the chaos, the fear, it all melted into something else, something dangerous.

I could’ve kissed him right then as I wanted to but I didn’t. I turned away, my heart pounding like a war drum.

“You don’t have to leave,” I whispered. “I’ll move in tomorrow.”