Page 54 of Deadly Secrets

Chapter 21. A NEW ROOMMATE

(Sienna)

Maggie helped me pack the few things I would bring to Zayn’s and Ander’s apartment. I was leaving most of my stuff at Aster Hall, and I would come and go to pick things up when needed. Plus, I didn’t want to come across as imposing and getting too comfortable when truth be told, I was only going to be there for a few days, maybe a week or two at most.

The moment I stepped into my apartment, I dialed Sarah’s number. She didn’t believe me at the beginning when I told her all that had happened during our Thanksgiving break. She went mental when I spilled all the details, including the fact that Noah had found Zayn and me having sex in the kitchen. Maggie’s reaction was similar to Sarah’s although she said she had seen it coming.

“Are you going to pick Zayn over Noah? Girl, let me tell you something. I’m very jealous of you right now. Noah is hot as fuck, and Zayn…oh my God. He looks like a sex god. Please tell me he made you come several times?”

“Maggie!” I screamed. “Don’t be rude. A lady never tells…” She held my gaze for a minute, and we both burst into laughter.

“You’re no lady, Sienna. Of that, I’m sure.”

It was difficult explaining to Maggie my feelings for both guys. They were very different, and I felt like each one held a piece of me. It was confusing because I wasn’t sure I could pick one. It was unfair. Noah texted me a couple of times, trying to convince me to stay with him. But I knew that staying in his apartment wasn’t an option. It would only make things more confusing and difficult until I had made my decision. I had a lot of things on my plate, and this was just the cherry on top.

“I have a call with Peter this week. Apparently, he has a potential candidate for the CEO position and wants to talk to me about it.” It was great news. Things had been chaotic since my father had passed away, and filling the role would mean more stability at Cos Pharmaceuticals; I was sure Peter would be relieved to take back his previous role.

“Do you know who the candidate is?” Maggie asked.

“No. He said he wanted to discuss it with me personally because, in the end, it would be my decision to give him or her the role.” I had asked him to send me the profile, but his hesitation to share any details with me in advance made me a bit suspicious.

“Well, I’m sure if Peter has shortlisted that candidate, it’s because he or she is a good option, at least on paper.”

“I guess,” I replied. “How are things with you anyway? How was your break?” While I finished packing, Maggie told me all the things she’d done at the homeless shelter, and I felt really proud of her for spending her free time with those in need. I felt kind of selfish for ditching her and hanging out with the boys for the weekend, but at least something good came out of my trip to New York. Ander and I were on the same page now, and I was thrilled to rekindle our friendship.

As if Maggie could read my mind, she asked, “Are things with Ander good now?”

“Yes, they’re better. It’ll probably take some time to reach where we left off, but I’m determined to get there.” My mind immediately traveled to our first kiss. Deep down, I knew we couldn’t get back to how things were left off…not really.

“Just be careful. He was a dick with you at the beginning, so remember your worth and don’t take any shit from him. Okay?”

I loved how protective Maggie was. I was lucky to find such a good friend at Stanford, especially since I missed Sarah so much. I promised to call her soon and introduce her to Maggie. I was sure she’d love her too.

* * *

Maggie and I arrived at Montgomery Hall an hour later. Zayn was waiting for us downstairs to welcome us. The building was very similar to Aster Hall. Montgomery Hall was also a mixed dorm, but in addition to all the perks mine had, this one had its own library, a gym with a sauna and steam room, and I was told that their food at the cafeteria was the best one on campus.

The building looked as if it belonged to the Victorian era, and the front looked like something straight out of a fairy tale, with all these elaborate carvings and amazing details you don’t see in modern buildings. It felt like you were actually living inside a piece of history but with all the modern comforts. Maybe the fancy-ass architect who designed the building was trying to replicate an old state in the English countryside. Who knew?

“Good day, ladies,” Zayn said while gracefully bending over in a courteous bow. I snorted.

“I didn’t peg you for a gentleman,” Maggie responded.

“Of course, I’m a gentleman.” He smirked. “Let me help you carry the luggage upstairs, and I’ll show you the apartment.”

Maggie and I said goodbye, and she promised to call me later. She had a tutoring appointment with one of her teachers and was running late. Zayn grabbed my bags and headed to the elevator. Their apartment was on the fifth floor. Buildings weren’t that tall inside campus, but the view was outstanding. The living room windows faced west, and as the sun started setting behind the other buildings, the whole room lit up with an amazing golden glow. It was like pure magic. The way the sunlight streamed through the windows created this dreamy atmosphere that made the apartment feel cozy and welcoming. It was hands down the best spot to hang out with a book and soak in the beauty of the sunset every day.

“You like it?” Zayn asked.

“It’s beautiful. Will you show me the rest of the apartment?”

Zayn grabbed my hand, linking our fingers, and started walking toward the corridor. It was a small gesture, but the contact of his skin against mine gave me goose bumps; it was evident the electric connection we had. There were three bedrooms, two to the left and one to the right, and a generously sized bathroom.

“Your room’s the first to the left, and we’ve made some space in the bathroom so you can put your things there.”

“You share a bathroom?” I asked, confused. I would have never imagined Ander and Zayn were the kind of guys who would share space. I suddenly felt extremely lucky that I was able to get a one-bedroom apartment with an en suite bathroom.

“Yes, we do. So be mindful of the time you spend in the shower, or I might have to share the space with you just so I’m not late to class,” he said as he lifted his hand and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.

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