28
ASPEN
For the past week, everyone has been talking about the upcoming founders’ ball. A few years ago, I would’ve shared their excitement, but now, I could throw up just thinking about it. Not that I don’t like the idea of a party—dancing and food. It’s the people I know will attend that have me curled up in a ball of nerves and anxiety.
As far as I know, most parents have flown in to see their kids and celebrate the tenth anniversary of opening the school. Of course, my mother has already emailed me about her regretfully declining the invite, which is not surprising at all. I didn’t expect her to come.
Still, a part of me wishes she would. No matter how much she gets on my nerves. She is still my mom, and I want her to be there for me. I want her to want to see me. I want her to want me safe and happy.
Wishful thinking, I know.
More than ever, I hide out in my room, even skipping classes so I won’t have to go out. I go to the cafeteria super early in the morning before most students make their way to breakfast. Then I go a second time between lunch and dinner. That way, I miss everyone, and so far, that includes the Rossis.
Today is the big day, the founders’ ball is happening tonight, and the dorm halls are buzzing with people getting ready, even though it’s still hours before it starts. I have to be the only one not excited about this event. I don’t plan on going anywhere tonight. I’ve already stocked up on books, so I have plenty to read.
I’ve settled into my bed, snuggled beneath the covers, and halfway through the third chapter of the book Brittney told me I had to read when there’s a knock on the door.
Startled, I drop the book into my lap and nearly jump out of the bed. I stare at the door like it’s my enemy. Who knocks on my door? No one… at least, not usually. The only person who comes to my room has a key and wouldn’t be caught dead knocking.
Something in the back of my mind tells me not to open the door, but curiosity killed the cat, and I’m the stupid cat getting up to open the door. My hand shakes as I grab the handle and twist it, opening the door.
All the air stills in my lungs when I see who is standing on the other side. My blood runs cold as I take in the large frame of the man, his black hair is graying, and his face looks weathered, somehow, ten years older than from the last time I saw him. But even his age doesn’t take away how scary he looks. I know he could kill me in an instant, snap my neck like he was tying his shoe.
“Hello, Aspen. Are you going to invite me in?” Xander Rossi asks like we’re old friends.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“Stupid girl,” he murmurs.
Of course, Xander Rossi doesn’t need an invitation and pushes into my room, almost knocking me down to the ground in the process.
“What do you want?” I grit through my teeth.
“I just came to check on the daughter of an old friend,” he explains casually, his eyes darting around the room inspecting the contents. “Are you settling into the university nicely?”
“Yes, this place is lovely,” I reply sarcastically, “and everyone is so welcoming. It’s very nice. Five stars, I would recommend it.”
“I’m glad to hear you love it here. Lucas assured me that your accommodations here were adequate. I can see he was right. This place suits you.”
Instead of giving him a witty remark, I grind my teeth together and dig my nails into my palm. Provoking him is only going to get me hurt.
“I heard you weren’t coming to the ball tonight.”
“I didn’t think anyone would want me to attend,” I say. “I wouldn’t want to show up somewhere I’m not welcome.”
“Of course, you are welcome there. I encourage all the students to come. And as luck would have it, I already have a date for you. He’ll be here at seven to pick you up.”
Dumbfounded, I stare at him, wondering where the hell this is going to go. Nothing Xander does is without a plan, and his plan, whatever it is, isn’t going to be in my favor. Like I said, no matter what, I’m on the losing side, always.
“I can’t,” I object. “I don’t have a dress.” It’s a lame excuse, but I hope it will be enough.
“I figured you wouldn’t, which is why I already ordered you one. It should be here in time. So be ready at seven. I’ll see you at dinner.”
He stops at the door, looking at me over his shoulder. “Do not disappoint me, Aspen. You don’t want to see me disappointed.” He lets the threat hang in the air for a few seconds before adding, “I expect you to be there.”
With that, Xander leaves my room, closing the door behind him without another word. I stand there for another moment with my mouth hanging open, trying to make sense of the whole situation. One thing is clear, the apple didn’t fall far from the tree at all. Quinton definitely learned how to threaten people from his father.
The real question is, why the hell would he want me to go? And who is he sending as my date? Does Q know about this?