Page 7 of Backstroke

She tosses me the dress and my fingers run along the cool silk. I’m not the shy type, so I pull my shorts down and toss my shirt onto my bed. The dress is tight but I pull it over my curves with ease. The material stretches across my cleavage, accentuating them more than my old t-shirts ever could. As I turn, the girls both whistle and gush over how well it fits.

“OH MY GOD, I knew it would be perfect for you! You look so edgy with your tattoos and blue hair! I love it!” Lyndsy pulls me in front of the mirror and spins me around so I can see every angle. I have to admit, it makes me feel sexy. It reminds me of lingerie with the black lace design and I can’t believe I’m contemplating wearing this in public.

“Wow, you look incredible!” Rowyn exclaims. “What do you think?”

“I say…fuck it,” I chuckle, as I slide on the shoes, wobbling a bit before catching my balance. It will be a miracle if I don’t bust my ass in these tonight.

“See? I told you,” Lyndsy adds with a grin. “You’re going to turn heads tonight.” I glance at myself in the mirror, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. Maybe this new chapter can be about more than just studying. Maybe it’s also about stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things.

“That’s the spirit. Now, on to hair and makeup!” Rowyn exclaims.

An hour later, we are walking across campus to the fraternity that’s hosting the party. Lyndsy curled my long hair into waves, while Rowyn created the perfect smokey eye. I have to admit, they definitely know what they’re doing.

“Where did you hear about this party?” I ask Lyndsy, as we pass several groups of mingling students.

“My brother goes here too. He’s a junior and he might have let it slip where he would be tonight,” she smiles.

“So, is everyone invited or are we crashing?” I really hope it’s not the latter. It’s already been a hell of a day. I don’t want to add to it by being thrown out of a party.

“Don’t worry, we’re definitely invited,” Lyndsy reassures me. “These parties are open to everyone. It’s kind of a tradition to kick off the semester.”

Rowyn nods. “Yeah, it’s a great way to meet people and have some fun before classes start. Plus, I heard the music and drinks are top-notch.”

I feel a bit more at ease knowing we’re not crashing.

“Yeah, the swim team parties are legendary,” Rowyn chimes in. I’ve heard about the swim team. Frampton U is known for their all star swimmers, but I didn’t think I’d be thrust into their presence so soon.

The large white colonial house looms in the distance, its grandeur almost intimidating. The bass thumping from inside reverberates through the night air, growing louder with each step. Our heels clack against the sidewalk, a rhythmic counterpoint to the music. As we approach, the front doors stand wide open, inviting a steady stream of people to come and go as they please. Somehow, that open invitation eases my anxiety; knowing I won’t be trapped in an unfamiliar, enclosed space brings a small comfort.

My stomach churns with unease as I hear splashes coming from the back of the house. Of course there’s a pool here. I should have known, but I was preoccupied with attending my first party. My strides slow, making Rowyn and Lyndsy look over their shoulders.

“Everything okay?” Lynds asks. My hands shakily rub down the soft silk on my dress. They both back up and slip their arms through mine.

“How about we stick together?” Rowyn interjects.

I blow out a breath. “Yeah,” I agree. “Thanks.” I’m resolved to stay inside at all costs.

We climb the stairs alongside a few other students, the anticipation palpable. Lyndsy glances back at me with a reassuring smile as we step inside. The music is loud, but not unbearable and thankfully it’s not the overplayed pop hits from the radio. At least someone here has good taste in music.

As we step inside, the spacious foyer is alive with energy. The grand chandelier casts a warm glow over the polished white marble floors, which are now dotted with groups of people chatting and laughing. The walls, adorned with tasteful artwork, seem to vibrate with the bass of the music.

To the left, the cozy living room is a hub of activity. Plush sofas and armchairs are occupied by students deep in conversation, while others stand around the marble fireplace, drinks in hand. The open floor plan allows the lively atmosphere to flow seamlessly into the dining area, where the long wooden table has been repurposed as a buffet, laden with snacks and drinks.

“Let’s grab a drink, then we can make our rounds.” I nod as Rowyn grabs my hand, leading us through the throng of dancing bodies. No one pays us attention as we navigate the maze of people.

The kitchen is a bustling scene, with people gathered around the large island, mixing drinks and sharing stories. The modern stainless steel appliances and granite countertops gleam under the bright lights, adding a touch of sophistication to the party. It looks like an actual bar with bottles of every kind of liquor imaginable, mixers and even several kegs off to the side.

Before I can grab a solo cup, someone pops up behind the counter. He rises to his full height, towering over me even in my heels.

“What can I get you ladies?” he asks, his eyes moving up and down Lyndsy and Rowyn before landing on me. A crooked smilecrosses his lips as he leans closer, inching into my personal space. This guy is a poster boy for red flags.

“I’ll take a beer,” I say, then I look over at the girls who are smiling at the attention I’m receiving. I admit I normally don’t get noticed, but I’d rather not get the attention of a campus playboy.

He leans back, then looks over at my roommates. “And for you?”

“Surprise us,” Lyndsy smiles and flutters her lashes.

“My pleasure, doll.” His deep voice drips with slimeball vibes. Hopefully, Lynds isn’t really flirting with this guy.

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