Page 13 of Hailey Goes to College

I should flirt back, that’s what Erin Brockovich would do in order to get what she wanted, but I’m not really that good at flirting and I don’t want Ryan to find out and ruin this…whatever this is. “Matt,” I say as I try to imitate my mother, “I heard there’s a group doing trades in their dorms.”

“Yeah, okay.” He doesn’t seem to care. “Are you writing a story about how we need new hobbies? I would agree. We’re a sad lot, aren’t we? Maybe you could help me find something new.”

His flirting is actually charming but I won’t be deterred. It also seems like he doesn’t know anything important. “So you aren’t involved?”

“With that group? Not really. I know they have a little network going. If that’s what you want to know about you’ll have to talk to Josh Thompson. He hangs out upstairs. Likes the table by the big windows. Usually has his laptop and iPad out. Acts like he already works for Goldman.”

I give him a bright smile. “Thanks!”

“Wait!” He grabs my wrist as I stand up and cock my head to the side. “Was that really it? Can I get your number or anything?”

“That’s sweet,” I say, fiddling with the strap of my bag, “but I’m kind of seeing someone.”

“Kind of or are?” His face looks so hopeful and it’s so shocking that two boys in a matter of weeks would be interested in me when I went long stretches of time in Arizona with nothing. I guess they’re right about college and becoming a swan and all that.

“Are. Sorry.” I turn to go but look back when I’m next to the staircase and give him a wave. He waves back, his eyes sad.

The study lounge is quieter than the rest of the building, with students scattered around, and focused on their work. I spot a guy who matches Matt’s description—dark hair, intense expression, deeply engrossed in his laptop. Taking a deep breath, I approach him.

“Excuse me, are you Josh?” I ask, trying to sound confident. Hoping that this isn’t some wild goose chase.

He looks up, slightly surprised. “Yeah, that’s me. Can I help you?”

“I’m Hailey,” I say, offering a smile. “I’m writing an article for the campus newspaper about students involved in online trading. I’ve heard you might be someone who could shed some light on it.”

Josh’s expression shifts to one of guarded curiosity. “Online trading, huh? What exactly are you looking to find out?”

“I’m just trying to understand what’s going on,” I say, sitting down across from him. “There are rumors about a group of students who are really into it, and I want to get the facts straight. I’m not looking to expose anyone or cause trouble. I just want to write an accurate story.”

Josh studies me for a moment, then nods slowly. “Alright. I’ll tell you what I know, but you have to promise not to jump to conclusions or sensationalize it. We’re just a group of guys interested in finance and investing.”

“Understood,” I say, pulling out my notebook. “I just want to hear your side of the story.”

Josh begins to talk, and I take notes, listening carefully. He explains that he and a few friends started getting into online trading as a hobby. They’d spend hours researching stocks, learning about the market, and making small trades. Over time, they got better at it and started making some money.

“We’re not running a business or anything,” Josh says. “It’s just a group of us who talk all the time in a group chat and we give each other tips on what to buy, when to buy and sell it, etc. We’re just learning and trying to apply what we’re studying in our classes.”

“Have you ever faced any issues with the university or anyone else because of your trading?” I ask, curious about any potential conflicts.

“No,” Josh says. “We keep it low-key and don’t draw attention to ourselves. We’re not doing anything that violates university policies. At least, not as far as we know.”

“I think you and your friends are well past low-key since I’m here from the school paper writing a story. I think the attention has been drawn. Do you think the rumors have any basis in reality?” I ask. “Are there other groups or individuals who might be doing something more… significant?”

Josh shrugs. “It’s possible. I’ve heard whispers about other students getting involved in more serious trading, but I don’t know any details. We stick to our group and focus on what we’re doing. But in a place like this, where there are so many smart and ambitious people, it wouldn’t surprise me if others were pushing the boundaries.”

I jot down notes, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation. This story is turning out to be more complex than I initially thought. “You mentioned whispers about other groups. Do you know anything specific about them?”

Josh hesitates, glancing around the study lounge as if to make sure no one is listening. “There’s one group that stands out. They’re a bit more secretive and seem to have more resources. From what I’ve heard, they operate out of Hamilton Hall.”

My heart skips a beat. Hamilton Hall is where I live and Ryan lives who happens to be a business major. Trying to keep my voice steady, I ask, “Do you know who runs that group?”

“Yeah, I do,” Josh says, lowering his voice. “The guy’s name is Ryan. He’s a business major, just like us, but he’s got some serious connections. People say he’s got a real talent for this stuff, but there are rumors that he’s involved in some shady activities.”

I feel a cold knot form in my stomach. Ryan? My Ryan? I try to keep my expression neutral as I ask, “Do you have any idea what kind of shady activities?”

Josh shakes his head. “Nothing concrete. Just rumors about insider trading and maybe even some money laundering. But like I said, it’s all speculation. No one has any proof, and Ryan’s group keeps a low profile. If you’re looking to dig deeper, that’s where you might find something interesting. But be careful. If they are involved in anything illegal, they won’t appreciate the attention.”

“Thanks for the heads-up, Josh,” I say, my mind racing. “I appreciate your honesty.”

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