Fatal Flaws

Chapter 3

The temptation grows, getting harder to ignore as the intense smell of weed fills my nostrils. My body reacts to the scent, leaning in, but my mind is conflicted. One side screams no, this is your second chance, and the other says it's only weed, one time won't hurt. April's smug face pops into my head, I can hear her practically screaming I told you so. I've only been on my own for an hour and I'm already risking screwing up. What's wrong with me? 

"Um...., no, thanks, but go ahead. It's fine. It doesn't bother me," I fib, unsure if I'm giving her permission or trying to convince myself. Tearing my eyes away, I go back to unpacking.

"Ok, cool. Also, FYI, if you need to borrow the room and want some privacy, let me know. My girlfriend has an apartment a few streets over, and I'll be there most of the time. I can't wait for you to meet her," she squeals, dropping onto her bed, inhaling another hit. A cloud of smoke escapes as she exhales, reabsorbing it through her nose.

My mind wanders. It's crazy how things change. Years ago, I wouldn't have hesitated to smoke with her. I'd have a stash, offering it to her. But now I'm sitting here beating myself up, secretly wishing I had one of those goodie-good nerds for a roommate, preferably someone who doesn't smoke or do anything remotely fun. It sucks, because she seems like a great person, someone I could be best friends with. But I know myself, and temptation isn't my friend; she never has been. This is going to be worse than I thought, I think to myself, as the smell wafts over to where I'm seated, folding clothes. A loud banging interrupts my thoughts.

"Oh, my bad, that's probably my brother. I forgot he called earlier, whining about forgetting his keys in my bag," she complains, butting the blunt into a pink ashtray on her nightstand. I'm glad neither of them saw that earlier. I can imagine the lecture I'd have gotten. 

"Come in. I have to find them. Give me a second," she hollers to whoever is on the other side of the door. A man replies, urging her to hurry

"Hayden, this is Bex. Girl, this is my brother, Hayden," she introduces us, despite my back facing them. I look up the exact moment he walks in. Our eyes lock, sending a jolt of electricity through my body.

Like his sister, he's gorgeous, with the same crystal blue eyes. Only his are a tad darker, and hold more mystery than hers. I could get lost staring into his eyes, trying to unlock the secrets behind them. Bad boys have always been my weakness, and I can sense he's trouble. Despite knowing I should stay clear, I can't seem to take my eyes off of him. 

His dark hair is wild and free. The front falling just above his eyes, almost hiding them, adding another layer of mystery. I secretly want to run my fingers through his silky hair. It looks soft and tempting. The dark color assists in showing off his high cheekbones and flawless skin. 

Unlike Sky, every inch of his exposed skin is covered in tattoos. Most of his ink is black, but I can see a few colored ones hidden amongst the dark lines. Lifting his hand to push his hair back reveals a large red rose tattoo. Tiny words are written beneath it, but I don't know what they say; they're too small. Shaking his head, each piece of hair falls perfectly back into place. 

My eyes continue traveling down his body, taking in his appearance. Several more tattoos inch up his collarbone from beneath a plain white tee. Black denim jeans hug his slim yet muscular waist. Wearing black high-top combat boots similar to his sister's. 

Glancing over, he acknowledges me, giving a quick nod before turning his attention to Sky. 

"Hurry up. I haven't got all day to sit and wait for you. I called and texted you so this wouldn't happen. I have things to do," he snaps, licking his lips. Moisture glistens on his plump, wet lips. 

"Here asshole, I'm sure whatever whore you have waiting will still be there" she smirks, dropping a set of keys into his outstretched hand. 

"Anyways, are you coming to the bonfire tonight?" he asks, ignoring her comment. 

"Well, yeah, duh. Free booze, I ain't dumb, of course I'll be there," she laughs, not waiting for him to respond, she shoves him backward out the door. He barely has time to move before it slams shut in his face. 

"So you're coming with me tonight, right?" she asks, walking back to her bed, plopping down.

"I doubt it. I don't know anyone," I stammer, not wanting to sound lame. 

"Okay, and that's why you should come. I can introduce you to some of my friends. I know they'll love you," she beams, flipping onto her stomach. Her knees bent behind, kicking her feet back and forth in the air. "We're going to be best friends," she smiles, watching me put things away.

Finishing up, I check the time. It's already after two thirty, I need to leave soon, so I'm not late. Before putting everything in my bag, I double-check it.  A notebook, some pens and pencils, and gum, I think that's everything I need. Shoving it all into my bag, I throw it over my shoulder.

 "Promise me, you'll think about it. It'll be fun," she begs, unwrapping a piece of gum and popping it into her mouth.

"We'll see. I'll meet you here after orientation," I nervously respond, more worried about getting to class on time than some party. I hope I have enough time, I think, mentally trying to picture the campus map in my head, rushing out the door.