Page 5 of Backstroke

Reaching my room, I take a deep breath and begin unpacking. This is my space now, my sanctuary. I hang up my posters and artwork that I’ve painted or sketched over the years first, because I can’t bear to look at the plain white walls. Next, I arrange my books and set up my desk. Obviously since I didn’t want to make a million trips from my car to the dorm, I only brought a select few, one of them being Edgar Allen Poe’s complete set of works. It’s worn around the edges where I’ve read through it so many times, always unraveling a new facet to his writing. Each item I place feels like a small victory, a step towards building my new life.

I glance out the window, taking in the view of the bustling campus below. It’s a fresh start, a chance to prove myself. And if that guy thinks he can intimidate me, he’s got another thing coming. I’m ready for whatever challenges come my way, and I’m not backing down.

Remington

What a fucking bitch! Does she not know who the hell she’s talking to?

“Get out of my way,” I seethe at the people lingering nearby. The crowd quickly disperses when they see the scowl on my face, parting a way for me to tear through. These motherfuckers know the consequences of messing with me, but apparently little miss cuntface didn’t get the memo. First, my father stops by, demanding my attendance at a formal dinner. Then, some chick runs into me and has the audacity to speak the way she did. My fists clench and I see red as I storm through the building to see the Dean. The receptionist looks up, ready to argue, until she sees who just flew in the door. Her mouth quickly snaps shut as her eyes avert away from me.Good, I don’t need another hassle.

Dean Lassarite’s office is in the back of the administration building and everyone clears a path as I come through. I probably should feel bad for being a dick, but I don’t.

I march straight into his office, not bothering to knock. He looks up from his desk, startled by my abrupt entrance. “What’s the meaning of this, Remington?” he asks, his voice stern.

“I need to talk to you,” I say, my voice barely controlled. “Now.”

The Dean sighs, gesturing for me to sit. “Alright, what’s this about?”

“I want to make sure our arrangements are still in order for Monday night,” I urge, flopping down on the leather chair before his desk.

“Everything is in place. The new professors have been notified not to intervene, and the old already know the drill. I assure you, all will be well,” he sneers.

“Oh, don’t get your panties in a twist,” I goad, as I rest my feet on his desk. He looks up with anger lacing his expression. “You wouldn’t want me to make a phone call to dear ol’ dad, would you?” I look down and pick a piece of lint from my shirt. When I look back up, his face is pale.

“I said everything was good to go. There’s no reason to bring your father into this. No one will interrupt your little game night,” he reassures.

Dropping my feet, I stand quickly and lean over his desk. “Make sure. One fuck up and you won’t work in this state again. Hell, maybe not in any state,” I spit.

Before I leave I turn back, chuckling darkly, “You’re smarter than the last Dean. He didn’t know his place at this school. It would be good for you to learn from his mistakes.” I slam the door behind me and make my way to my house. Rage is simmering just below the surface, ready to unleash at any unsuspecting person who dares get in my way. Normally after a swim meet I feel more relaxed, but today took a different turn.

As I walk through the campus, students quickly move out of my path, their eyes avoiding mine. The power I wield here is intoxicating, but it also comes with its own set of frustrations. Today’s events have left me on edge and I need to find a way to release this pent-up anger.

Reaching my house, I throw my bag onto the couch and head straight to the kitchen. I grab a glass and pour myself a drink, hoping it will help calm my nerves. As I take a sip, I can’t help but think about the girl from earlier. She’s going to learn the hard way that no one crosses me and gets away with it.

The house is buzzing with preparations for tonight’s party. People are rushing around, setting up decorations, arranging food and drinks and making sure everything is perfect. The energy is electric, and it’s clear that everyone is looking forward to the event. A mindless fuck is exactly what I need right now, and soon my house will be a buffet of opportunities.

I gulp the rest of the whiskey, feeling the burn as it slides down my throat. As I make my way to my bedroom, I mentally prepare myself for the night ahead. A sly grin crosses my face at all the ways I can make this mystery girl pay. The thought of seeing her again, of putting her in her place, fuels my excitement for the events to come.I wonder if she’ll be here tonight?I’ll be ready if she is.

I close the door behind me and take a deep breath, letting the familiar surroundings of my room calm my nerves. This is my domain, and tonight, I’m going to make sure everyone remembers it.

Three

Fallon

My dorm and itsrooms are larger than I thought they’d be. Even having to share with two other girls in the suite, I have plenty of space for all my things and then some.

As I’m unpacking, the main door swings open. Two girls my age come barging in, laughing and carrying on about some boys they’ve already seen on campus. My eyes roll of their own volition. I didn’t come here to play, maintaining my grades will always be the most important thing on my list. Guys aren’t even on my radar at this point.

“You must be Fallon,” the tall, athletic blonde holds out her hand. Nodding, I shake her hand.

“I’m Rowyn and this is Lyndsy.” She points to the auburn-haired girl, who steps up to shake my hand as well.

“I picked this room since no one was here yet. Hope that’s okay?” I eye them both for any annoyance, but find none.

“Oh, that’s cool. They’re all the same anyways,” Lyndsy peeks behind me at the posters and such that I’ve already plastered to the walls.

“Wow, you must have gotten here early to have already put so much away,” Lyndsy muses.

“Yeah, I wanted to get a head start,” I reply, smiling. “Plus, I figured it would be easier to settle in before things get too hectic.”

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