Book design by Blue Harvest Creative www.blueharvestcreative.com Edited by Hannah Loomis & Kerri L. Bennett
A LIFE UNEXPECTED
Copyright Š 2014, 2017 Sara Daniell
All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher. This book is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents, and dialogue are drawn from the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
Published by H2O an imprint of BHC Press Library of Congress Control Number: 2017938448 ISBN-13: 978-1-946848-05-5
ISBN-10: 1-946006-68-8 Visit the author at: www.saradaniell.com & www.bhcpress.com also available in eBook
THE STOCKBRIDGE NOVELS Summer Seventeen & You Under the Owl Tree STANDALONE NOVELS An Unfortunate Journey Anything Goes On A Friday Night ANTHOLOGIES In Creeps the Night A Winter’s Romance On the Edge of Tomorrow
CHAPTER
ONE
“I HAD A GREAT TIME!” I SAY WITH THE SWEETEST SMILE I can manage while keeping my tone sarcastic. I had a horrible time. As a matter of fact, this guy was quite possibly the biggest jerk I had ever met. “So…can I c—” I slam the door in his face before he can even spit out the vowel. Of course he couldn’t come in. I am well aware that I am contradicting myself with my previous statement of “I had a good time”, but I don’t care. He was trying to feel me up all night and getting frustrated when I would slap his hands away from my breast. Going on a blind date to a dark movie theater was clearly a bad idea. As I take off my jacket and boots, I see that my roommate is nowhere to be found. Hmmm… She must still be out with what’s-his-name. I can never remember her boyfriend’s name, which is sad, because he’s a nice guy, or at least he appears to be. I use the phrase, “appears to be”, because I’m at a point in my life where I seriously doubt the existence of nice guys. But, enough of the pity party over how every guy I seem to date ends up resembling the reeking material that both janitors and plumbers deal with on a daily basis. You get my metaphor. In summary, it is safe to say that my dating life is cursed. I start to take off my clothes to change into some comfy pajamas when my cell phone alerts me of a text message in the most annoyingly, effective way possible. “Hey, hey, hey! You have text message! Hey, hey, hey! You have text message! Hurry, hurry! See who it
• 10 •
SARA DANIELL
is!” says my cell phone in a voice so high pitched that I’m a little shocked it didn’t induce ear bleeding. I really do need to change that ring tone. My brother, Max, changed it the last time I went home to visit. I’ve just been too busy to remember to change it to something less obnoxious. Unknown: Hey Holly. Can you meet me outside your dorm in 10 minutes?
This person must have texted the wrong number, a wrong number that just happens to have the same name of the actual recipient. Because, you know, that is definitely logical. Oh well. I decide to ignore it, and am putting my pajamas on when my phone starts up with that annoying ring tone again. Okay. I’m seriously changing that! Unknown: Please?
Okay, either this person has serious issues or they honestly think they are texting someone else. I think it’s best to just block the number. Finally, I’m able to put on some pj’s. It only took three tries. While changing my message tone, I can’t help but think who is sending me those texts? I jump when Blayne, my overjoyed roommate, bursts through the door. She’s the definition of Hitler’s perfect race— a tall, blue-eyed blonde that every guy wants to put his hands on and she’d gladly let them, despite having a boyfriend. “Holly, there is a guy out there that asked me if I was your roommate, and I told him that I am. He said to ask you to please answer his texts. Do you know him?” Blayne was way too excited about this. I roll my eyes. “Nope, and it’s kind of freaking me out,” I reply with a frown. “You need to lighten up and learn to live on the edge. He’s hot.” “I like safe, Blayne.” And that is the truth. I admire people who can live outside the box and do things on a whim. But that wasn’t for me. I keep schedules. I need each day mapped out, no surprises. In high school I was called anal most days and voted most likely to have a career in politics. I turn to look out the window, and see the strange guy in a university hoodie and jeans.
A LIFE UNEXPECTED
• 11 •
“Oh come on girl, text him back! Obviously, he knows someone you know. How else would he have gotten your number? Just see who it is and what he wants! By the way, did I mention he is extremely hot!?” “If he wants to talk to me, he could do it in a less strange way, like stopping me on the way to class. You know, like normal people.” Annoyance has started to find its way into my voice. “Why don’t you go out there and talk to him if you think he’s so hot?” I shook my head and closed my blinds. “Because, he seems pretty adamant about talking to you.” she laughs. “Holly, what could texting hurt, huh?” I knew she was right, and I have to admit, he has my attention. “Fine, but if I die it’s on you.” She smiles. “If you die I will hold myself responsible.” I raise my brow. “And that’s supposed to make me feel better?” She shrugs and starts getting her shower stuff together. Another text message comes in as soon as I unblock the mystery guy. Unknown: Sorry. I should have explained who I am. My name is Luke, and this is my second year at Stanthum University. I have seen you around campus and keep wanting to talk to you, but you always seem like you are in a hurry. I realize that my first text was inappropriate, and I should have introduced myself first. Can you at least text me back or add me on Facebook? My name is Luke Denton. Me: Is that supposed to make you less strange? Look, you are right. Your first text was inappropriate, and this is not a good way to meet a girl. First impressions are everything, and your first impression really sucks. I would greatly appreciate you leaving from outside my window and losing my number also. Thank you, and have a good night. Luke: Goodnight.
Really? Seriously? Goodnight? He replied with goodnight? Saying, “sorry I understand, and I will delete your number”, would be
• 12 •
SARA DANIELL
more appropriate. But, all he said is goodnight? Luke Denton has made it impossible for me to fall asleep, unable to fight my curiosity; I open my laptop and get on Facebook. Luke Denton, male, 20 years old, and damnit, Blayne was right—very attractive! His dark hair was cut just enough not to cover his edgy eyes. I continued to scroll through his timeline. January 1st at 10:00 pm. Woke up late this morning which sucks because I missed the test I studied so hard for. January 2nd at 3:30 pm. I saw her again today. How can a girl affect me like this? Comments: Lizzy Smith: *inserts finger in mouth to create a gag reflex* Luke, you are so pitiful! Get off Facebook and go introduce yourself! Who is this girl anyway? Didn’t you just break up with Laura? Brody Matthews: Luke, you seriously need a night out. Text me later. Laura Nelson: Yes, Lizzy, we did break up. It was mutual though, no hard feelings. Luke Denton: Brody, yes. Yes I do.
Wow. Is he talking about me? Not that I care… Wait, how did he get my number? Did I mention he is really attractive? Oh my god, Blayne is rubbing off on me. I slam my laptop shut and groan as I leaned back against the wall. Me: You really should set your profile to private. Hasn’t anyone told you it’s not safe to put your info out there? Luke: I thought you were going to bed. Me: I was. But this really strange person started texting me and has me really freaked out. Now I can’t fall asleep. So thanks… Luke: Yes, that was stupid of me. How about I find you on your way to class tomorrow so I can properly introduce myself?
A LIFE UNEXPECTED
• 13 •
Me: You don‘t even know me. Luke: But I want to know you.
I stare at my phone. I don’t know what to say back. But for some reason I want him to find me. I want to meet him even though I know it’s stupid. I peek out my window one last time before closing my blinds. He isn’t there anymore, and I feel disturbed by the whole situation and slightly disappointed, which annoys the hell out of me.
CHAPTER
two
I WAKE UP BEFORE MY ALARM NORMALLY GOES OFF AT 6:00 am. It’s earlier than my typical start of the day and really cold. I forgot to turn on the small space heater, and apparently so did Blayne. She doesn’t get up until after I leave to run, get coffee and breakfast. I swing my legs over until my feet hit the floor and stand to stretch. I check my phone and see that I have a new text. Luke: I look forward to meeting you today. Me: Has anyone told you that you’re weird? And, it’s early. Luke: Possibly, and I’m well aware of the time.
Who does this guy think he is? I don’t know what’s so special about me that makes this guy so eager to meet me. I go to the bathroom to get ready for the day. Looking in the mirror reminds me of how ordinary I really am. I’m not ugly, but I’m nothing special either. I brush my wet, dark brown hair that’s shoulder length and straight as an ironing board. Even if I wanted to curl my hair, it’d be pointless. I smudge foundation over my olive colored skin and work extra hard to cover my freckles. As I finish getting ready, I replay the text messages from Luke in my mind.
A LIFE UNEXPECTED
• 15 •
I walk into the room and see Blayne still sound asleep. “Blayne,” I say quietly while lightly tapping her on the shoulder. She doesn’t move. “Blayne,” I say louder. This time she moves, but only enough to throw the covers over her head. “Whatever, be late,” I say while sitting down on my bed. I put on some socks, and my vans. These poor shoes are so worn out, but I love them dearly. A new pair just wouldn’t be the same. I start blow drying my hair, and Blayne finally rolls out of bed, giving me the evil eye for waking her up. I smile sweetly and keep drying my hair. It doesn’t take me long to finish getting ready. I grab my things and headed out the door.
“Holly Nather,” I hear from behind me. I turn, and when I do my hair sticks to my lip gloss. I tuck it securely behind my ears and Luke laughs. I smile a little and hold tightly to my backpack straps. “Hi.” “Hi.” I look up at him and scrunch my eyebrows. “So. . .” He smiles. “Can I walk you to class?” “Um…” I wasn’t use to this kind of attention. I was the safe girl guys stayed away from. Never the type of girl who guys offer to walk to class. “Sure,” I say more as a question than a statement. “You don’t sound sure.” “Because I’m not.” “Do you want me to walk you to class?” I loosen the grip on my straps so blood can flow to my fingers. “Do you want to walk me to class?” “I offered, didn’t I?” He laughs. “Yeah…” We start walking. “How did you get my number?” “I can’t tell you. You would think I’m even scarier than you already do,” he says as he takes my backpack from me to carry. That was sweet.
• 16 •
SARA DANIELL
“Well, seeing that I already think you’re borderline lunatic, it can’t possibly hurt to tell me.” He bites his lip to keep from laughing. “Alright, I’ll tell you. But, only if you promise you will still talk to me and not be freaked out.” “I make no promises.” He laughs and smiles slightly. “I help out in admissions, and I know where they keep student files on the computer. So, I looked you up.” It annoys me that he looked proud of himself for pulling a stalker move. Not hiding my sarcasm, I say, “Okay, that’s not scary at all.” Even though I’m freaked out by this guy, I’m also a little flattered that he went to great lengths to meet me. “So you broke into the student files to find me?” He nods. “Weird.” I mumble. “Well, we are here. Here is your backpack. Do you want to meet me after all of your classes today? About 1:30 at the park on campus?” He places his hands in his pockets. How does he know I’m done with class by then? Oh yeah, my file. Again, I don’t get it. This attractive guy went through all of this trouble to meet a boring, safe girl with dirty vans. “I guess that sounds okay.” I feel the urge to grab my calendar and pencil him in, but that’d be tacky. I knew I would as soon as I was out of his presence. The fact that this was not on my calendar and planned out did a number on my OCD. He smiles widely. “Meet me at the bench under that huge weeping willow.” I turn to walk into the building where psychology class is awaiting me. How am I supposed to concentrate after that? He seemed less strange, a little charming actually. I pull out my planner as soon as I sat down. Oh! Shit! I forgot to put my phone on silent! I hit the silent button, trying to remain incognito, in hopes the professor didn’t hear it go off as the text came in. Luke: 1:30. Don’t forget. I laugh. How could I? I had penciled him in as soon as I sat down.
CHAPTER
three I MAKE MY WAY TO THE CAMPUS PARK, BUT STOP WHEN I realize I forgot to get my backpack from my last class. As I pull out my phone to text Luke to let him know I was going to be running late, I notice there is already a new text from him. Luke: You forgot your things in your last class. I got them for you.
Just as I’m about to text back, I look up and see him standing in front of me with my things. How did he do that? How did he know? With confusion all over my face, I ask, “How did y—” “Don’t ask questions. Just say ‘thank you,’” he cut me off, smiling as he hands me my backpack. But, I’m not satisfied. “No, you have to explain that! I just left class. There is no way possible y—” He cut me off again. “I decided to wait for you after your last class. I saw you walk out, and I happened to notice that you didn’t have your things with you. So, I went in and got them for you. I tried to catch up with you, but you were apparently in a hurry to see someone.” His smile is so mysterious and cocky, making him even more attractive and somewhat distracting me from his odd behavior. I stare at him while shaking my head in disbelief. How did I not see him when I left class? I decide not to push the topic anymore. I continued walking to the weeping willow. I sit down and placed my
• 18 •
SARA DANIELL
things on the ground. Luke follows suit. For a while, there is a long awkward silence. I break the silence. “So, tell me about yourself. You seem to know so much about me, but I know nothing about you.” “My name is Luke. I’m 20 years old. I’m from… Florida… I’m studying at Stanthum University to get my degree in Science. Eventually, I want to become a doctor.” He runs his hands through his perfectly messed up hair and leans back against the tree. His arms folded across his chest. “I really don’t know that much about you. I only looked in your file to get your number and figure out what classes you were taking so that I could try to meet you on your way to or from one of your classes. So, tell me about you.” “Before I do, tell me why you’re so damn interested in getting to know me?” “I have my reasons.” I glare at him. “You have your reasons? And you think I’m supposed to accept that as a logical answer?” He laughs. “I never said it was logical. And yes, I have my reasons.” I cross my arms. “Which are?” “We’ll get to that later. Right now I want you to tell me about you.” I wanted to argue and make him tell me what the hell he meant by having reasons, but I was worn out by his weirdness. I start picking at the polish on my nails. “There’s really nothing to tell you. I’m ordinary and boring. I’m a freshman and taking basic classes right now.” I shrug and survey how dingy my shoes are. “There has to be more to you than just the basics. You seem like a girl who has her whole life figured out.” “I have several paths chosen for my life. Which one I choose is still undecided. Right now I’m focusing on my basics.” “I like your shoes.” He smirks as he nudges my foot gently with his. This whole situation is so confusing to me. Maybe I was a bet. Maybe this was some dare his friends put him up to. He looks around
A LIFE UNEXPECTED
• 19 •
like he’s waiting for someone, probably one of his buddies getting ready to reveal this huge joke. I stand, overwhelmed by my assumption, and hold my bag close. “I should go. Thanks but no thanks, Luke.” “What are you so scared of, Holly?” “I never said I was scared.” I cut my eyes at him. “I just said I need to go. We both know you really didn’t want to meet me. Not a girl like me.” “You’re wrong, and you don’t have to say you’re scared for it to be obvious.” I stare up at him and as I do, I remembered him somehow. Today isn’t the first time we’ve met. Or is it? Damn, how did I not notice how familiar he looked earlier today? “What is it?” I shake my head. “I’m not sure. You…” I shake my head again. “I have homework.” “What is it, Holly?” He asked again. He reached out to touch my arm but I moved back. I try to walk past him, but he blocks me. I look up at him. “Please get out of my way.” “Not until you tell me what you just saw.” “You look familiar. That’s all. Now, please move.” I start to walk around him, but he blocks me again. I sigh in frustration. Tears start filling my eyes, and I can’t make sense of the surge of fear and emotions that suddenly come over me. I feel like I need air and the only way to get it was to get away from him. “We go to the same college, I’m sure you’ve seen me before.” I nod, but it wasn’t that. Deep down I know I’ve seen him long before college ever started. “Homework, Luke. Please, I need to go.” I am freaking out inside and don’t know why. That’s what is so scary, I have no idea why, but I know I’m supposed to be afraid. He finally moves out of my way, and I hurry back to my dorm. I walk in and lock the door behind me. I put my back against the door as my things slip from my hands. My whole body shaking. I don’t understand it. I kneel down to get my cell out of my bag and dial my mom’s number.
• 20 •
SARA DANIELL
“How’s it going?” Mom asked. I run my trembling hands through my hair as I sit on the floor. “Mom, something weird just happened.” “Oh yeah? What is it, honey?” I tell her about the random texts and everything leading up to the moment I recognized Luke. Like really recognized him. “Luke Denton? I’m sorry, love, but that name doesn’t sound familiar at all.” Tears fall down my cheeks, and I don’t like how out of control I feel. “Alright,” I say, my voice sounding braver than I felt. “Why don’t you come home this weekend? We’ll have a girl’s day. I think school is stressing you out.” I agree then hang up. The door knob turns and I jump. “Holly?” Blayne calls from outside the door. I scramble to my feet and wipe my eyes. I open the door. “Hey, sorry.” “You alright?” She asks hesitantly as she walks past me. “Just a bad day in class.” “Me too. My professor for Lit is such a douche canoe.” She plops down on her bed. “Let’s go out tonight. My treat.” “I have homework.” “Homework—shmo work. I’m taking you out and you’re gonna have fun.” “Let me check my planner and—” She cut her eyes at me. “Lame-o.” I laughed and thought about it. “Fine. I’ll go.” She smiled. “Yeah?” I nod as I start getting ready. I need to get out and have fun. I need to clear my head of this Luke guy. Most of all, I need to shake this fear that has suddenly taken over every part of me. I can feel it all the way to my bones, something is wrong and even more so, and I need to stay the hell away from Luke Denton.
SARA DANIELL IS A wife and mother who spends her days teaching children and her nights loving her family, and finding time to immerse herself into her two creative passions. In her free time she not only writes unique and amazing stories, she also takes breathtaking pictures that captures her creative nature in color just like her writings capture her creative nature in print. She is an amazing woman who loves life and people.