Page 52 of Playing with Fire

Both my parents and family members along with my friends were aware of my early decision and commitment to Georgia. During the past year I maintained a small journal that documented my daily experiences.

The journal contained many rants, yet it also featured summaries of my most memorable experiences.

The entry from my journal that stands out the most to me was written the week before Christmas.

18 December

I can't wait for college. My main concern now is escaping from his presence. God, he is such a hassle. I prefer to avoid him today because this journal likely contains numerous rants about him.

But I seriously can't wait. I'll endure another five months of school followed by a life-challenging Savannah before I transform into a Bulldog. I will soon be Jaxon Rowan-free!

The next day we received shocking and devastating news at the Rowan household which clearly showed in my following entry how I felt.

19 December.

Him would be the only person I want to kill. One. Fucking. Person. I am going to commit homicide tonight.

Yep. Jaxon shared his University of Georgia commitment in private before making it public.

The day started as my worst but took a turn for the worse when I noticed the expressions on both our mothers' faces.

They were excited. There's no way they could show excitement for this situation. Despite being aware that this person creates 99% of my life problems they still throw him congratulations while ignoring that my dream to attend that place started when I was nine.

And I've wanted to go there alone.

But whatever. I probably won't get to see him very much. He'll have football and a hole.

Numerous other girls seem to be catching his attention.

So it won't be that bad.

But it's still annoying.

The light shakes of my hand pulled me back to reality from my thoughts.

I responded with a short laugh to Hazel’s text message as we moved closer to the restaurant. The lunch proceeded without any problems even though there were no exciting events. Nonetheless, it was a nice outing.

I remained inside our home until late when we arrived. Their schedules were full, but they managed some free time at the party.

I lay down on my bed for several hours before I began to prepare myself.

I took a shower before I quickly dressed in jeans shorts and a shirt. The outside air contained humidity, and I realized the temperature remained high.

By eight, I was ready. After Elijah took his car, I informed my parents that I would see them later. They advised me to remain cautious, but I listened briefly before disregarding their words.

Lectures. Lectures. Lectures.

Whenever one of us leaves home for an outing we end up facing identical situations.

I entered my car and headed across town toward Travis's home. Travis throws the best parties because he owns the ideal house with plenty of alcohol and other essentials. He manages the task without explanation but nevertheless completes it.

Due to the main road traffic I reached the destination at approximately 10:20. It was packed. The moment I stepped through the door

I noticed people gathered in the front yard. The large crowd demonstrated that students from multiple schools attended the party. But I didn't care. The more, the merrier. Kylie sent me a text message to join her at the back of the location.

I maneuvered through the crowd of people while passing two competitive beer pong matches to exit the building.

After reaching the back area I found Kylie standing there with the rest of the crowd next to the coolers. I picked up a drink for myself before beginning my evening. JAMIE told me that this party was restricted to seniors only.