Vampire University: The Complete Series

By VJ Erickson

The complete Vampire University series all in one ebook.
Book One - Vampire University
Constantly moving as she grew up, Taylor had learned the hard way how to blend in wherever she went. But when she moves to VanCamp University for her freshman year of college, she immediately finds herself at the center of attention of nearly everyone she encounters. From the charismatic and mysterious Evans twins, to her quirky, clingy roommate Hannah, it seems that the people in Taylor's new college life have no intention of letting her be the wallflower.
It's not just blending in that Taylor has to worry about, though. At VanCamp University, there is more to the staff and students than meets the eye. While trying to adjust to her new life on campus, she finds herself in a world where fairy tales and reality collide, where gargoyles and leprechauns mingle with humans and vampires, and where nothing is as it first appears.
And as she discovers the truth of her own unusual heritage, Taylor learns that fairy tales are just the beginning.
Book Two - The Last Leprechaun
After surviving their encounters with vampires and other supernatural creatures at VanCamp University, Taylor and her friends must face the real dangers of college: homework, parties, new roommates, and first dates.
Nothing for Taylor is ever quite that simple though. Just as she is trying to live a normal freshman life with an overprotective roommate, she is drawn into the mystery of a park with magical secrets. As she grows closer to her new friends, their trust in each other is tested when demons from their past come back to haunt them.
Book Three - Angel Guardian
With the dangers she had encountered behind her, Taylor Bain is finally ready to settle down to a normal college experience. But when Eric Evans returns to town, trouble is not far behind. And when she turns to her friend Hannah Cohen for help, Taylor discovers that Tom was not her only friend with secrets.
Book Four - Guardians of Eden
The Vampire University Series concludes in this final chapter as Taylor Bain again has to defend herself and the people she loves against impossible forces. The stakes have never been higher as Taylor races against time to save Hannah, and Joseph fights against all odds to save his brother Eric from the power-hungry guardian who threatens them all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: VJ Erickson
• Release date: Oct 12, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310754968

Book preview

VAMPIRE UNIVERSITY

Book One in the Vampire University Series

CHAPTER ONE

The taxi pulled up behind a row of cars and vans backed up so far from the freshmen dorms at VanCamp University that the usually bustling city traffic had come to a complete standstill. Crowds of family members and supporters spilled out into the street, and children darted between their legs. Among them their soon-to-be college students milled about, pretending not to be terrified.

Here is fine, Taylor said and opened the door.

Are you sure, Miss? If we wait just a minute, we can pull up closer.

No, thank you, she said.

The sooner she got out, the sooner she could blend in. Sitting by herself in the backseat of a taxi, it was obvious that she had arrived alone, but once in the middle of a crowd she would be invisible. No longer the lone girl in a cab, she would be indistinguishable from the other students who had parents, siblings, and friends all waiting for them nearby.

Taylor quickly counted out the fare, while stealing glances to her side to see if anyone was watching. She fidgeted anxiously while the driver removed her two suitcases from the trunk. When the driver offered to help carry her things to the door, she quickly refused.

No, thank you. It’s not far. Have a nice day.

The driver shrugged and hopped back into the car, leaving Taylor standing alone on the curb. She strapped one bag over her shoulder, clutched the other in her hand, and began to walk briskly in the direction of the parade of mom-mobiles and city taxis, trying to blend into the crowd.

She came to the end of the procession of cars and stopped, pulled out a folded piece of paper, and read:

Summers Hall # 304

Looking up, Taylor saw the name of her dormitory in shiny black letters that stood in contrast to the dirty grey stonework of the seemingly ancient building they labeled. Summers Hall was noticeably less impressive than the New England architecture that covered the brochures for VU. Taylor saw nothing like it anywhere on the street where she stood. Instead of stately columns, aged stone, and brick, the building in front of her was constructed from dull gray rectangles of indeterminate material. Aged metal beams criss-crossed the facade like faded ribbons wrapping a worn package. The building was windowless except for the top two floors, which seemed to be at least ten floors above the third floor where her room assignment would be located.

She didn’t mind that these dorms revealed the university’s trick. They lured students with the promise of a beautiful campus full of historic urban character and then pulled back the curtain to reveal that they would instead spend their student lives in cinderblock silos. This might disappoint other students, but Taylor found it reassuring. The cheery world of distinguished privilege depicted on the brochures was not one Taylor was familiar with. This world in front of her, with its gray windowless walls, was one she knew well.

Taylor gathered her possessions and her courage and turned resolutely to face the imposing structure. She marched towards the building with as much confidence as she could fake.

Inside the front lobby, the chaos outside was condensed and amplified and younger siblings that were once running free, ducking in and out of crowds, were now trying to recreate the reckless outdoor scene in a ten-foot waiting area. Scattered amongst the confusion were quiet teenagers, looking around nervously. Seeing her new neighbors looking as alone as she felt, despite their crowds of supporters, Taylor’s fears calmed a little. She had imagined that she would be the only one alone and scared, but reading the faces of those around her she imagined that they might have felt as alone and scared as she did.

She stopped in front of a metal sign pointing to the elevators and caught her reflection. Dots of perspiration had formed along her hairline that she carefully dabbed with the end of her sleeve. She tried to imagine that she looked like a college student, that her dark-framed glasses were the height of hipster fashion, and that her plain brown ponytail was cute and not just lazy. She told herself that she was an adult confidently inhabiting her world and not the freckle-faced child she felt like.

Feeling unsure of herself, she pulled the ponytail out, letting her hair fall to her shoulders. After a quick glance in each direction, she discretely tucked her glasses into her purse. Her reflection turned fuzzy, but she convinced herself that these changes had transformed her from ugly-duckling teenager into the swan-like adult that always emerged in these scenes in movies. Simply take off the glasses and voila: makeover complete! Now, she tried to tell herself, she looked the part.

She ducked into the elevator ahead of the crowds and pressed herself against the back corner. In filed parents and their children, their features blurring as they entered into her field of far-sighted vision. Taylor stared at her feet.

At the third floor, she squeezed through the crowded elevator, apologized to the little girl she practically knocked over, and stepped towards her new home.

She had spoken to her new roommate on the phone. What she knew of her new dorm-mate could be summed up in a handful of words: Hannah Cohen, freshman, undeclared. Hannah seemed friendly and spoke with ease and confidence. This had made Taylor a little nervous on the phone, as Hannah talked so easily to a perfect stranger that Taylor was sure that her new roommate must be well-liked and popular. While she was liked well-enough, Taylor was certainly never popular, and she worried about being the uncool roommate by virtue of comparative proximity. There goes Hannah's dorky roommate, everyone would say in pitying whispers.

Taylor squinted to make out the door numbers. Was that 304 or 309? This was silly, she decided. Her Hollywood makeover would have to wait. Her new surroundings were nerve-wracking enough without being able to see them properly. Taylor reconsidered the glasses, quickly retrieved them from her purse, and put them on. She inserted her key into the door, but it was unlocked. As soon as the first sliver of light peeked through the crack of the door, she heard Hannah’s voice exclaim excitedly, Taylor!

The door swung open from the other side, and every one of Taylor's fears faded away in that moment. A girl, grinning from ear to ear, stood inside with her hand outstretched.

I’m Hannah. It’s so great to meet you! she said, forcing her hand a few inches from Taylor’s side.

Taylor felt herself relax, and she returned the handshake.

I’m Taylor. Pleased to meet you too.

Given Hannah’s confident demeanor on the phone, Taylor had tried to construct an image of her in her mind using all the popular pretty-girl TV stereotypes she could assemble: tall, skinny, and fresh off the set of a CW show. Instead, the girl standing before her was nothing like what she had imagined.

Hannah was small—at least a foot shorter than Taylor—and she was dressed like no popular teenager Taylor had ever seen before. She wore bright red khaki pants that were high-waisted, pleated in the front, and tucked into a pair of matching red flats. Her crisp white blouse was covered by a sweater vest in the same bright red as her pants. Her hair was short, straight, dark, and meticulously groomed–almost businesslike. If forced into a comparison, Hannah would definitely be the dorky roommate. What a relief, thought Taylor.

Taylor took a moment to look around the room. It too was tiny. But unlike Hannah, it was completely devoid of character. Against one cinderblock wall, two nondescript mattresses were arranged in a row just barely off the floor. Between those, a tiny refrigerator sat on the carpet. On the opposite side of the room, particle board shelving and drawers covered the entire wall except for two spots with standalone desks. Just as the nondescript gray buildings calmed her fears, the unpretentious accommodations reassured Taylor. They were modest, simple, ordinary–like her.

Oh here, let me get that for you! Hannah said while pulling Taylor’s bag from her shoulder, not even pretending to hear her polite protesting. Is your family coming up?

No, Taylor said softly.

If Hannah noticed any awkwardness, she didn't let on.

Well then, you probably could use a hand with the rest of your stuff. I’ll come with you!

This is it, Taylor said, her voice even quieter.

Hannah paused for a moment, and the smile vanished so briefly that Taylor wondered if she had imagined it.

Well, you’re all set then! My parents couldn’t come either. They’re stationed overseas, so they just loaded me up on a plane and sent me on my way.

Oh…

Hannah paused again. This time the smile was clearly gone. Taylor could see that Hannah was contemplating Taylor. She seemed to be wondering what Taylor’s story was and wondering if she was allowed to ask.

Taylor knew if she didn’t say it now, then it would only get harder. She set her bag against a chair and sat on the edge of one of the mattresses, letting out a sigh that was far louder than she intended. Taylor cleared her throat and prepared to tell her story.

My parents passed away when I was young, she began.

Oh… I’m… I’m sorry. Hannah stammered.

Any traces of her earlier confidence vanished quickly.

Oh no, it’s okay, Taylor reassured her. I mean… you know, I’m used to it now.

Oh, well that’s good! I mean…

Hannah’s eyes lowered.

I mean… she continued, I don’t mean ‘good’. I’m sorry, it’s just…

No really, it’s fine, Taylor said, attempting a smile.

Taylor had meant to explain further, but even a lifetime later she felt it difficult to talk about, and it was not often she was given the opportunity to try. Everyone assumed that her uncle was her father. They shared the same last name, after all. And a single father, or at least what people assumed was a single father, inspired many gossipy whispers but few direct questions. Besides, she remembered nothing of what happened and didn't really care to. She felt fortunate that she was too young to remember the details of the fire that took her parents' lives. Her brother was old enough to remember, but he refused to talk about it, and she learned early in her life to stop asking.

To Taylor’s surprise, Hannah lunged towards her with arms outstretched and dropped down onto the bed beside her, embracing her in a side hug while burying her face against Taylor’s shoulder. Hannah looked back up, and the uncertainty on her face had vanished, replaced again with the broadly-grinning confident pixie Taylor had first met.

Well, if there’s anything I can do for you, you just let me know! said Hannah. We’re roommates now, so we’ve got to look out for each other!

Taylor was surprised that she wasn’t pressed for further information, but she supposed that it was obvious that the topic was an uncomfortable one for her, and she was grateful that she did not have to explain herself further.

The rest of the afternoon passed as if the previous conversation had never happened. For now, any lingering discomfort was dispelled by her new roommate. It seemed there was no danger of awkward silence whenever Hannah was in the room. Despite having unintentionally revived painful past memories, Hannah did not appear deterred from peppering Taylor with questions, but she carefully avoided any questions of home life that might lead to uncomfortable answers. So instead of parents, high schools, and hometowns, their conversation turned ahead to things like laundry, dining plans, and room decor.

It was just as Taylor was beginning to really relax that there was a loud knock on the dorm-room door, and a female voice shouted through it, Meet for dinner downstairs in one hour!

A few seconds later, they could hear her repeating the message at the next door.

They have scheduled dinners here? Taylor asked.

Just this week, Hannah replied. Everything is scheduled out this week. Didn’t you get the orientation schedule from the RA in the lobby?

I guess I didn’t see her.

"It’s all optional, but I want to do everything. When are we going to get a chance again to meet this many new people all at once? With activities designed for meeting people! Here. Look," Hannah said, thrusting the week’s schedule into Taylor’s hands.

A week full of constantly meeting new people sounded exhausting to Taylor, but the schedule seemed harmless enough with plenty of emphasis on games and free food. Taylor found the first item on the schedule.

6:00 Dinner with Family – Meet @ 5:30 in front of Summers Hall.

Beneath that:

Students without visiting family meet in Harris Hall lobby.

You’re going to dinner tonight, right? Hannah asked.

To the dinner with family?

No, not that one. The one meeting over at Harris Hall. It’s right across the street. For the outcasts like us!

She said this as if outcast was a title to be proud of.

Taylor’s first impulse was to say no, but she didn’t want to disappoint her new roommate. Besides, the only excuse she could think of was that she didn’t feel like going, and she suspected that Hannah would make short work of that argument.

Still, Taylor was somewhat surprised to find herself sitting with Hannah in the lobby of Harris Hall waiting for dinner. A college student sat behind a reception desk, ignoring them as he tapped away on his cellphone. The crowds that had filled the lobby before were now congregating on the sidewalk outside. There were a handful of other people in the room, and Hannah dutifully introduced herself to each one with the same assertive enthusiasm that she had first greeted Taylor with.

Once Hannah had met everyone in the room, she began introducing people to each other.

Kyle, this is Amber. Her hometown’s just an hour away from yours. Maybe you know each other somehow!

Sarah, this is Andy. You’re both English majors. Maybe you could study together?

Taylor was enthralled by the way Hannah worked the room. There was something deeply silly about Hannah’s appearance—in head-to-toe red like some sort of Christmas elf—but no one seemed to look down on or make fun of her. Hannah approached every interaction like she was in charge, and no one she talked to seemed to mind. Most of them appeared to be relieved with Hannah bestowing upon them the gift of not having to introduce themselves first.

Taylor turned her attention away from Hannah towards the elevator door as it opened and closed, with a seemingly endless stream of students and their families spilling out towards the street. Lost in thought, Taylor was startled back to attention by a firm hand on her shoulder.

I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. I just was going to see if this seat was taken.

Taylor made a mumbling noise that sounded something like permission to sit, and a boy about her age did not hesitate to interpret it as exactly that. He was cute enough, in a boyish way. He would be handsome if his ears didn’t poke out a little too much or if his dirty blond hair had ever in his life seen a comb. He looked like the type of boy who needs another year or two to grow into his face, but still passes for a grownup when you throw a suit on him.

So, you’re a freshman? he asked.

Any day now, yes, Taylor replied.

Me too. Name’s Eric.

Nice to meet you, Eric.

So polite!

Eric looked at Taylor expectantly.

And your name is...? he asked.

Oh, right. Sorry! I’m Taylor. It’s been a long day.

Well, Taylor-it’s-been-a-long-day, it is a pleasure to meet you too. So, is there free beer at this thing?

I don’t think they allow beer in the dorms, Taylor said matter-of-factly.

He laughed.

They don’t allow a lot of things in the dorms, he said with a wink.

His face may have some growing up to do, but his eyes were perfection–the purest blue she had ever seen. She had never seen eyes so captivating.

Eric confidently returned her stare and continued smiling.

Want to get out of here, then? Go where there are a few less… rules?

As he said this, Taylor thought she saw a shadow flicker across his eyes. She turned behind her to see what was casting the reflection, but saw nothing out of the ordinary.

Taylor looked nervously to the side. While she was flattered that she had so quickly landed the attention of a boy, she did not drink beer and was not interested in breaking rules on her first day here. Alcohol and rebellion drew more attention than Taylor was interested in.

What about dinner? she asked.

Eric seemed genuinely taken aback at the question.

What do you mean? he asked.

Dinner? Is that not why you’re here?

Oh, well yeah, obviously. I was just surprised that you’d rather hang out with the RAs, that’s all. Think about it. Don’t you want to go check out the campus?

He looked at her eagerly, as if the answer was obvious, and she just needed to arrive at it. Taylor saw the shadow dance across his pupils again, but another quick glance behind her revealed nothing new.

I think I’m gonna pass. I told my roommate I’d come to this thing with her. I don’t want to leave her hanging.

Eric pouted in response.

How can I say no to a face like that? said Taylor.

He smiled confidently.

But seriously, no, she said.

His smile dipped slightly.

But, what about… I mean… he said.

Don’t get told 'no' often?

Actually… Eric began, but before he could finish, a hand reached from behind, grabbed him by his upper arm, forcefully pulled him up out of his seat, and spun him around.

Hey Joe, Eric said to the figure that had yanked him from his seat. So glad you could make it.

The boy facing Eric looked like a taller, darker, and slightly more handsome version of Eric. If a few more years would allow Eric to grow into an adult, this Joe had already beat him to it and traded the dirty blond mop for a more kempt dark brown version.

Taylor, this is my brother, Joseph, Eric said over his shoulder.

Joseph did not remove his gaze from Eric or otherwise acknowledge Taylor. He looked pissed.

Uh… Hi, Joseph? she said.

Joseph did not respond and instead hissed something in Eric’s face that she couldn’t make out. He then began leading Eric by the arm towards the door. Eric turned to look at Taylor with a grin on his face and shrugged his shoulders. He held his thumb and pinkie up to his face in the shape of a phone and mouthed the words call me before disappearing out the front door.

Taylor was going to respond that she didn’t have his number, but he was already gone.

CHAPTER TWO

What was that about? asked Hannah, who had finished making a round of the room.

What, those guys? I don’t know. I couldn't hear them, but that guy Joseph was pissed about something, Taylor said, looking out through the lobby windows to see if she could see them outside.

That’s boys for you. First day on campus and they’re already picking fights with each other.

Well, they are brothers, Taylor said, turning back to Hannah.

Oh yeah, I know. Twins, actually.

Really? I wouldn't have guessed. So you’ve met them already? I didn’t see you talk to them when they came in.

I ran into them this morning and introduced myself. I don’t know if you’ve noticed this about me yet, but I’m not shy.

No, definitely not. You’re going to have to teach me how you do it.

You just do it, Hannah said with a shrug.

Oh, well that explains what I was doing wrong this whole time.

Pretty much! Don’t worry; just stick with me. I’ve got you covered!

Taylor had never thought of herself as shy, but she could see how that would be the case when compared to Hannah. Taylor always assumed she was as confident as the next teenager, which was to say not very, so she could appreciate having someone as confident as Hannah on her side.

Well thanks, Taylor replied.

Just then, the door to the lobby opened, and in walked a pair of teenagers about their age, possibly slightly older. One was carrying a stack of pizza boxes stacked so high that all you could see were his legs. The other was carrying her purse.

Without waiting for attention, the female addressed the room.

I’m Addison, the RA for Summers Hall third floor, she said. My friends call me Addie. You will call me Addison.

Taylor and Hannah flashed each other an is she serious? look.

This, she said, gesturing to the boy besides her, is your dinner.

With that, Addison turned and stepped out through the front door, not making eye contact with anyone as she left the building.

The boy was still standing there with his arms full. Half a face peaked out from behind the stack of pizza boxes.

Hi! You can call me Tom, he said in a breezy contrast to Addison’s brusque demeanor. I’m the resident adviser for Harris third floor.

Everyone just stared at him.

So, uh, can I get a hand, maybe? he asked.

I’ve got you, bud, came a voice from the front of the room as Eric appeared behind Tom, grabbing half the stack. He brought them over to a small table in the corner and set them down with an exaggerated flourish.

Hey, thanks man. I… Tom began, but stopped suddenly as Joseph reached out from behind him and grabbed the rest of the boxes out of his arms.

Joseph did not look at Tom or anyone else in the room. He kept his gaze fixed on Eric as he followed behind. Joseph set the boxes down next to the others and then proceeded to the opposite end of the room. He leaned against the corner and glared silently at seemingly no one in particular.

Eric, on the other hand, walked straight for Taylor and Hannah and sat down between them.

Okay, guys. If you need anything, I’ll be upstairs, Tom announced. And I do mean ‘guys’. Ladies, if you need anything, well... good luck with Addison!

"Yeah, I think we might need it. That Addison sounds rough," Taylor said, leaning behind Eric to talk to Hannah.

Eric leaned back to block their view.

Don’t worry, I’ll protect you, said Eric.

Hannah leaned forward around Eric and said, I think we can handle her.

Oh I have no doubt. You two don’t look like the types who let anyone tell them what to do, he said.

Exactly, Hannah said, her tone and expression flat.

She then turned to Taylor and brightened up again.

Wanna go grab a slice? she asked Taylor.

Before Taylor could respond, Eric leapt out of his seat and declared, Allow me! and marched off towards the food.

You don’t like him, Taylor said under her breath.

Hannah shrugged and said nothing.

He seems nice enough, Taylor offered.

Hannah still did not respond. Taylor wasn’t even sure that Hannah was listening to her. She was staring off in the direction of Eric but didn’t seem to be looking at him. She appeared to be lost in thought.

When Eric returned, Hannah jolted back to attention, and her easy smile returned.

Thanks Eric, she said cheerfully.

Hannah took a bite of her pizza and then immediately began to assault him with questions, giving him only a moment to get out an answer.

Where are you from?

What are you studying?

What do your parents do?

What do you want to be when you grow up?

What’s your favorite color?

Hannah’s change in demeanor was so sudden that Taylor wondered if she had imagined any awkwardness before. Taylor only caught a few of the answers. He was undeclared, his favorite color was green, and his parents were vacuum salesmen or veterinarians. Taylor didn’t catch which. Something with a V. Maybe. Instead of giving her full attention to Eric, she was distracted by the figure of Joseph brooding in the corner. He seemed to be fixated on Eric, but at the same time tried to mask it by appearing disinterested in everything.

Taylor wondered why the boys were fighting. Joseph didn’t seem even vaguely interested in her, so she assumed that she wasn’t the object of their dispute. For lack of a better explanation, she chalked it up to sibling rivalry.

She stopped looking at Joseph for a moment and turned back to Hannah and Eric. They were both staring at her expectantly.

Well, Taylor? What’s your major? Eric asked.

Oh sorry, she replied. Biology.

Hey, me too! he said eagerly. I’m pre-med!

I thought you just told Hannah you were undeclared.

Well yeah, I wouldn’t want you to think I was a science nerd the first time you met me, would I?

Or maybe you just made that up right now? Hannah offered.

Eric ignored her.

Give me your phone, he said, holding his hand out to Taylor.

Taylor didn’t budge.

What for? she asked.

So I can give you my number, silly. Now hand it over.

Taylor handed the phone over to Eric. Hannah did not take her eyes off the phone as he entered his number, flipped the phone around, raised an eyebrow and the opposing corner of his mouth in a smirk/smile, and then took a picture.

There you go, he said, handing the phone back. No need to be so cautious. Your phone is safe and sound!

Thanks. That was a close one, Taylor joked.

Just then, the door slammed behind them. Taylor turned to see an older man standing just a few feet from the door. He had dark hair, shoulder length and unkempt, and a comically thick mustache. Taylor guessed from his sports coat and tie that he was a professor.

He stood quietly for a moment, arms crossed tightly across his chest as he scanned the room with a sour expression. The room fell to a hush in his presence. Even Eric, for once, was quiet.

Good evening, boys and girls, he finally spoke, his voice dry and impatient sounding. It is my unfortunate responsibility to welcome you to our esteemed campus. Though since you little orphan Annies are clearly the motley crew of the freshman class, I can't be bothered to pretend to care that you are here. I can't imagine that any of you are here on anything but government assistance anyway.

Now wait a second, Eric began to interrupt.

MANNERS! the man shouted while knocking over a chair. The unexpected outburst caught everyone off guard, and Eric seemed too surprised to continue.

So congratulations on being a drain to society, the old man continued. Perhaps we can do something about that here, but I'm not optimistic. Do avail yourself of the freshman orientation activities. I'm sure that while these activities are an onerous drain on our university's resources, you will find them quite... tolerable.

The room was completely silent.

"And do partake of the free food. No need to put off for tomorrow what can begin today, someone of some importance said at some point, I'm sure. So best get started on the freshman fifteen right away, ladies. At least then you can achieve something while you are here. Good day."

With that, he left as abruptly as he had arrived. The room remained quiet for a moment, as if everyone was anticipating that he could barge in again at any moment, but slowly conversation began to resume around the room, though considerably more muted in enthusiasm.

So, who was that? Taylor asked.

Don't know, said Hannah.

And what is the freshman fifteen?

It's the fifteen pounds of weight everyone gains freshman year, said Eric.

Well, that's rude, replied Taylor. I hope whoever he is, he's not someone we have to see again.

I’ll say, said Eric. Well, big day tomorrow, so I’m going to turn in. It was nice talking to you both.

Yeah, you too, said Taylor.

Hannah didn’t say a word, but Eric didn't seem to be paying attention to her anyway. He gave an exaggerated wave goodbye and then stepped outside. Taylor hadn’t noticed Joseph move, but he was right behind his brother as they left.

So really, you don’t like him, Taylor said once the door closed behind them.

What’s to like? replied Hannah.

Well, I don’t know yet.

Me neither. You ready to head up? Hannah said, standing.

So ready. I could use some sleep.

Yeah me too.

CHAPTER THREE

Taylor woke up to a pitch-black room. For a brief moment, she couldn’t remember where she was or why the surroundings seemed so foreign. Then she remembered her new home, her new roommate, and the new people she had met yesterday.

Recalling Eric, Taylor pulled out her cellphone. The light burned her eyes, so she held it back and squinted. No messages. She opened up her contact list and pulled up his name. Just Eric, no last name. She considered sending him a text, but it was 5:45 AM. She cut off the phone and stared up at the ceiling, the lingering light from the cellphone still dancing across her vision.

She tried to fall asleep again, but the unfamiliarity of the surroundings combined with all of the new things she had experienced in the last 24 hours kept her mind active. After attempting to sleep for what she was convinced was at least an hour, she looked at her phone again. 5:52. Not even ten minutes had passed.

At 5:58, she gave up trying to sleep and shoved her phone into the pockets of her pajama bottom pants, grabbed the tank top she had tossed next to the bed, managed to orient it correctly after a few moments of fumbling in the dark, and then stepped gingerly onto the carpet. She inched along, slowly dragging her feet until she found a pair of tennis shoes and slid them on.

She stepped out of the room, careful to close the door quietly behind her. Though she was not violating any rules that she was aware of, she still had a feeling that she shouldn’t be caught walking around this early. Taylor reminded herself that this was her home. Besides, she told herself, 6:00 AM wasn’t going to seem quite as early when classes started and everyone didn't have the luxury of sleeping in.

She proceeded to the end of the hall and pushed through the exit doors to an open air stairwell. She stepped up to the railing of the third-floor landing and looked out over campus. The view from the landing was mostly alleyway and brick, but she could make out the tops of a few buildings, and she gazed at them trying to imagine what classes would be like in those buildings.

Taylor was so absorbed in her thoughts of the future that when she felt a hand tap on her shoulder she lost her balance for a moment and nearly fell. The hand lingered on her shoulder and steadied her. She turned around to see Joseph, dressed as he was yesterday, standing on the landing with her.

Taylor had not heard him climb the stairs and this made her even more uneasy about being approached alone in the dark.

How did you get up here? Taylor asked, backing up to the edge of the rail as far as she could go.

Joseph looked down to the ground below and then back up to Taylor.

I walked, he said.

Then why didn’t I hear you?

I walked quietly, he replied, without any indication that he was anything but serious.

Okay... Well, I gotta head in, Taylor said, turning towards the door.

Wait, Joseph said and stepped between her and the door.

His demeanor was nonthreatening, but the suddenness and unusual circumstances of the meeting kept Taylor on edge.

Taylor made note of her position relative to the stairs and moved slightly closer to them in case she needed to escape.

Okay... Taylor responded hesitantly.

I just wanted to talk to you, Joseph said, not moving from his spot by the door.

Well here we are. What do you want?

She tried to control her voice so that she sounded relaxed, as if this was routine for her, like she was commonly surprised into conversations with stealthy young men on third-story fire escapes. The effect, she decided, was probably not entirely convincing.

To talk. I just said that, Joseph replied, sounding annoyed.

The hint of a belligerent tone in his voice made Taylor even more nervous. She scanned for another way out of this confrontation, but there were only the door behind Joseph and the stairs leading down below her.

Look, I’m not going to hurt you, he said.

Taylor’s eyes widened, and Joseph seemed to realize that this was probably not the right thing to say.

Hurt me? she said. I didn’t realize that was on the table.

Joseph’s expression softened.

It’s not. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to imply anything. You just... you look terrified. I didn’t mean to do that. I guess I’m not used to people responding to me this way.

Well how do girls normally respond when you sneak up on them in the dark? Taylor asked.

Depends on the girl, he said without a hint of humor.

Okay, I’ve really got to go now. Hannah is probably wondering about me, Taylor said, inching closer to the stairs.

Joseph looked disappointed.

Okay, he said, looking down at his feet. I just thought this would go differently.

This?

Yeah, look, I just wanted to warn you about Eric.

The mention of Eric caused Taylor to momentarily forget her escape plan.

Oh yeah? she asked, trying to sound indifferent. What about him?

He’s dangerous. Just stay away.

Dangerous how? Is he in a gang or something?

Something like that. Just take my word for it, okay? You don't want to get involved with him.

Taylor looked away from Joseph over her shoulder towards Harris Hall.

What does that even mean? What is something like being in a gang? she asked, again focusing her attention on a way to get away from him.

Joseph didn’t respond.

Taylor turned back towards him, but he was no longer there. She looked all around her, over the edge of the stairwell, and into the hallway. There was no sight or sound of him anywhere.

Shaken, Taylor hurried inside and back towards her room. She could see from the strip of light at the bottom of the door that Hannah was awake.

Oh. Hi there, Hannah said cheerfully as Taylor opened the door.

Hey.

So you’re a morning person, huh? Hannah asked.

Not really. I guess I just don’t sleep well in new places.

Well, that just means that we can make the morning tour!

Hannah paused a moment for a reaction but Taylor was quiet.

You still haven’t looked at the schedule yet, have you? Hannah continued. There’s two campus tours today: one at 9:00 and one at 2:00. We’ve got plenty of time to catch the first one!

Taylor wondered if neither was an option, but didn't feel like arguing.

We can do 9:00, Taylor agreed.

Great! I’m going to go take a shower! Need anything?

From the shower?

Hannah laughed.

Fair enough! If you need anything from the shower, you’re on your own. See you in a minute, Hannah said and then left to get ready.

When Hannah returned from the shower fifteen minutes later, she was already fully dressed with her hair done and her make-up in place. She wore a crisp white blouse with a sweater over it, this time bright blue, and traded her khaki slacks for a blue and green plaid pleated skirt. The outfit already looked like a grade school uniform, and Hannah contributed to this by wearing knee-high white stockings. Whereas her outfit the prior day had made her look older, this had the opposite effect.

When Taylor and Hannah left the dormitory to meet for the campus tour they were greeted at the door by Addison who was carrying a clipboard and wearing a scowl. Unfazed by Addison’s prickly demeanor, Hannah walked directly up to Addison and smiled warmly.

Hi, I’m Hannah Cohen, she said, hand outstretched.

Addison did not look up from her clipboard.

Room number?

304, Hannah answered.

Addison silently made a mark on her clipboard and then lifted her head and looked past Hannah to Taylor.

Next, she said.

Hannah, beginning to realize that Addison had no intention of returning her handshake, slowly lowered her hand.

Same, Taylor replied softly.

Do you have a name, Same? Addison asked with a smirk.

Oh, sorry. Taylor Bain.

Addison made another mark on her clipboard and then moved on to the next student without another word.

As soon as they were out of Addison's earshot, Hannah leaned over to Taylor and whispered, Well, she’s pleasant, isn’t she?

Taylor shrugged.

I guess you can be that way when you’re leggy and blonde, Hannah continued. Good thing we’re not like that!

I dunno. I could deal with being leggy and blonde.

Too bad. Guess you’ll have to settle for being leggy and brunette!

Well, you got brunette right.

Well, he doesn’t seem to mind looking at you, Hannah replied, pointing behind her.

Taylor turned and saw that Hannah was pointing at Eric, about ten yards behind them. Their eyes met immediately, and he waved enthusiastically at her. Taylor quickly turned back to look at Hannah.

He’s coming over here, isn’t he? asked Taylor.

Yup.

How’s my hair?

Your hair? Fine. Still brunette.

Funny. I was worried about that, Taylor said, pushing a few strands behind her ears.

What are you worried about? Eric asked, as he approached the two.

We were worried, Hannah said, stepping in front of Taylor, that you would not be in our tour group.

Hannah said this in a tone that suggested the opposite.

Eric responded as if he had not noticed her apparent disdain.

Aw, that’s sweet. Worry no more, ladies.

Eric’s obliviousness amused Taylor as much as it seemed to irritate Hannah. Taylor liked Hannah for being friendly, outgoing, and easy to talk to, but Taylor was worried about this apparently antagonistic attitude towards male attention and what it might mean for future relationships. She hoped that Hannah wasn’t this way with all boys.

Taylor wanted to ask where Joseph was, not because she wanted to see him, but for precisely the opposite reason. Joseph appeared from Harris Hall’s lobby entrance and walked straight towards them before she had time to ask, however. He did not make eye contact with Taylor, and she made no attempt to do so either. Meanwhile, Hannah was glaring at both of them.

Good morning, Joseph said to no one in particular.

No one answered.

Joseph came to stand right next to Eric, and nobody spoke for a moment. It was clear that the two were related when they stood side by side, but only when you compared faces. Their demeanor, dress, expressions, and even body language were all practically opposite of each other. Eric was casually dressed in shorts and a t-shirt, used his hands expressively, and smiled. Joseph wore a thin crimson sweater and dark long pants, had his hands shoved in his pockets, and did not, so far as Taylor could tell, know how to smile.

Eric looked like he was about to break the silence when Addison broke it for them.

All right boys and girls, pack ‘em up, and move ‘em out, Addison yelled.

This should be fun, Eric said cheerfully and turned towards Addison, leaving Hannah and Taylor to stand with Joseph.

Yeah, c’mon Taylor! Hannah said, grabbing Taylor’s hand and leading her eagerly away from Joseph towards the crowd.

Taylor was grateful to be pulled away without having to speak to him. After a few minutes, Taylor looked back to where they were standing, and Joseph was still where they left him, staring directly at her. Taylor felt a shiver crawl down her spine. She leaned towards Hannah.

Does that guy Joseph creep you out? Taylor whispered.

Hannah answered without hesitation.

Yeah, totally. I’m steering clear.

Yeah, me too, I think, said Taylor.

As they joined the rest of the group, Addison yelled behind them towards Joseph, You too, Mr. Tall, Dark, and Brooding!

Joseph looked up, scowled, and turned to walk back towards the dorms.

CHAPTER FOUR

Well then, Addison announced to the group, everyone else who doesn’t have more important brooding to attend to, follow me.

The group shuffled in silence behind Addison along the city street that led towards the main part of campus. It was the end of August, and midday temperatures promised to be warm, but the early morning air was crisp and cool.

As soon as the dorms disappeared from view, Eric rejoined Taylor and Hannah, grinning with his familiar confidence. Hannah pretended not to notice him.

Miss me? he asked and looked eagerly at Taylor.

Terribly, Taylor responded, jokingly.

"Yes, terribly," Hannah parroted, less jokingly.

Addison could be heard in the background giving a terse description of their first stop.

This is the administrative building, she said. You do your administrative stuff here. Any questions?

Eric shot his hand up. Addison looked at Eric’s hand and then turned away.

Great. Next stop, the fine arts building, Addison announced and started walking.

Eric was not deterred, however, and hurried after her, shouting for attention.

Excuse me! Excuse me! I have a question!

Addison turned sharply and stared at him.

Yes? she said, impatient.

If it’s called VanCamp University, where are the vans for the camping? he blurted out.

Addison looked at him for a second, rolled her eyes, and then turned around to keep walking. Taylor hurriedly covered her mouth to stifle a giggle.

As they approached the fine arts building, Taylor couldn’t help comparing it to her old high school, a modest two-story brick building that could have fit inside any of these city buildings with room to spare.

Addison stopped in front of the building and turned to face the group.

This, she indicated with a half-hearted wave behind her, is the Lenape Center for Fine Arts. I trust you can figure out what it is for.

Eric’s hand shot up again. Addison looked directly at him, narrowed her eyes, and said, No questions.

Eric didn’t seem to mind, though. He just kept on grinning. Hannah, on the other hand, looked completely embarrassed to be in his vicinity.

C’mon, Hannah whispered to Taylor. We should keep some distance from him. We don’t want Addison associating him with us.

Taylor wasn’t worried about Addison blaming her for Eric’s behavior, but she wasn’t really attached to him either. She shrugged and followed Hannah’s lead to the other edge of the small crowd.

As soon as they started moving again, however, he was right back at their side.

The group came up to what Addison pointed out was the library. Taylor recognized this building from the brochure. It was decidedly more visually impressive than their dormitory, with stately columns and ornate stone details. Addison didn’t ask for questions at this stop, but Eric wasn’t paying attention regardless. Instead, he turned his attention to Taylor.

What are you doing later? he whispered to her.

Addison immediately picked up on this, however, and interrupted them before Taylor could respond.

If you would like to turn this into couples' hour, the dorms are back that way.

We’re not... Taylor began to protest, but Addison interrupted her.

I’m sorry. It must have sounded like I asked a question. Let me rephrase. If you two are here just to disrupt, then you are welcome to leave.

Eric walked right up to Addison. He hadn’t stopped smiling, and Taylor noted how indifferent he was towards authority. Even if Addison was just a resident advisor, Taylor had always been accustomed to simply deferring to those in charge.

Hey, I have a question, he said, standing inches from her face.

Addison did not acknowledge him. She turned her back as if she hadn’t heard him.

I’m serious. It’s a real question, he insisted.

Addison took a step away from him.

Last one, I promise, he persisted.

Addison pivoted sharply on her heel to face Eric again.

WHAT? she asked.

Yeah, the administrative building... Is that where we can leave feedback on our RAs? Because there’s this RA in the girl’s dorm, and man, let me tell you, is she in the wrong line of work. Is that where I’d go to file a complaint?

No, she said flatly.

Oh? Then tell me, where would one go to get an RA fired?

Resident Affairs in the Redmund building, she responded immediately and then paused as if she wasn’t sure why she just said that. I mean, you go back to Harris Hall and mind your own business. I’m sure the ladies here don’t need your help.

Of course not, he replied with a wry expression. You’re doing a great job already.

Addison continued to glare back at him and did not respond. Eric returned to Taylor and Hannah with a self-satisfied grin.

Hannah wasn’t having it, however.

Wait a second. You are not going to piss her off and then immediately come to be seen associating with us. We do not want your problems, Hannah said, placing her hands on her hips and inching closer to Eric’s face.

Oh, I wouldn’t worry about her, he replied.

Hannah furrowed her brow.

Right, Taylor chimed in, hoping to loosen the mood. It’s not like she has any control over our grades.

No, we just have to live with her, that’s all. said Hannah.

There there, Hannah, I’ll take care of you, Eric said and teasingly poked at her side.

Hannah froze at his touch, and Taylor almost tripped over her. When Taylor regained her balance, Hannah was standing a few inches from Eric, her arms folded across her chest. Eric leaned back a little and scratched his head sheepishly.

Hey, sorry. No touching. Got it.

Still not saying a word, Hannah walked off ahead leaving Taylor and Eric standing there. Taylor started forward to catch up to her, but Eric stopped her with his hand on her shoulder. Her body tensed.

Okay, no touching here either. Got it, he said, releasing his hand. Look, I’m not sure what I said to your friend, but I’m not trying to make waves here.

Oh Hannah, she’s not… I mean, we just met yesterday, said Taylor.

In the background, she could hear Addison explaining meal plans and diner cards. So far, Taylor had not seen Addison explaining anything to anyone and this sudden attention to her duties after Eric’s thinly-veiled threat amused Taylor.

I see, he said. You wanna ditch this tour then and go check out campus ourselves?

Taylor paused for a moment, and Eric looked at her eagerly. Off to the side, Hannah was chattering away with someone she had probably just met.

I can’t leave my roommate. We came together, said Taylor.

Well then, what are you doing afterwards?

I dunno. Hannah has been kind of leading me around this whole time. I don’t even know what’s scheduled this afternoon.

Just another tour, he said. We’re free for the afternoon.

Okay. After lunch, we can go check out campus.

Sweet.

Taylor tried to hide her smile as they continued on the tour. Addison continued to tersely explain the details of campus life, but Taylor wasn’t listening anymore. Instead she looked forward to the afternoon.

The last stop on the tour was the largest building on campus and what appeared to be the newest as well, the Redmund Student Life Center.

After introducing herself to everyone on the tour, Hannah was back at Taylor’s side. Eric, meanwhile, had been floating through the crowd looking for opportunities to make a nuisance of himself and irritate Addison at every stop. Joseph, whom Taylor hadn’t even noticed had rejoined the tour until now, stood aloof from the crowd and occupied himself by making strained faces at Eric’s antics.

Okay kids, Addison said, looking directly at Eric. Tour’s over. Lunch is inside.

The pace of the group had begun to lag, but the announcement of food reinvigorated them, and they walked more quickly as they followed her inside the Redmund building.

Taylor had never seen a building this spacious on the inside. With three-story vaulted ceilings, walls lined with shops full of university-themed gifts, and every side dotted with coffee shops and concessionaires, it looked more like an upscale boutique shopping mall than a school building.

Addison led them to a corner of the building and directed them inside a small room set up with folding tables and chairs. In the corner, pizza boxes were stacked on a table next to several bottles of store-brand soda.

Oh good, said Eric. "I haven’t had pizza in forever."

"Yeah, it’s been hours," said Taylor.

Eric flashed Taylor a grin while Hannah scowled. Addison ignored them both.

The rest of the afternoon’s yours, Addison announced and then promptly exited the room.

Want me to grab you some? Hannah asked Taylor.

Yeah sure, she replied and went to go sit at one of the tables.

Eric immediately pulled up a seat across from her.

Not hungry? Taylor asked.

Not for pizza, no, he answered.

Taylor was about to complain about the pizza herself when Joseph sat down beside her without a word. The brothers' eyes met for a moment and everyone was quiet.

Hannah broke the silence when she sat down on the other side of Taylor and slid a paper plate with a flaccid slice of lukewarm pizza in front of her. Hannah grabbed her own slice and started munching away.

You’re not eating? Hannah asked, looking in the direction of the brothers.

Not pizza, Joseph replied.

They’re pizza snobs, said Taylor.

I bet they are, said Hannah.

Hannah then proceeded to chew her pizza without taking her eyes off Eric. Meanwhile, Joseph stared only at his brother, who seemed happily oblivious to the attention of anybody but Taylor. Taylor found Eric’s self-confident indifference appealing, but his cluelessness, feigned or otherwise, made the situation even more uncomfortable.

So, Eric said, resting his elbows on the table and his chin in his hands while leaning forward eagerly. Tell me all about yourself!

What is this, an interview? Joseph interjected.

Either that or a staring contest, Eric quipped and then turned immediately back to Taylor.

Where are you from? he asked.

"We moved a lot growing up, so I wouldn’t say I’m from anywhere," said Taylor.

Ah, so military brat? guessed Eric.

No, we just moved around a lot.

Your dad was a contractor then?

No, he... Taylor began, but was cut off by Hannah.

I don’t think she wants to talk about her father, she said.

Hey, hey, Eric said, holding up both hands in mock surrender. I’m just asking. What would you like to talk about, Taylor?

Hannah was right, Taylor didn’t want to talk about her late father, but she felt perfectly capable of handling innocent questions about him without Hannah’s assistance.

Taylor was beginning to feel that everyone at the table was focused solely on her. Hannah seemed to regard every interaction with these boys as a test of roommate loyalty, Joseph seemed to have a personal interest in ensuring that Eric did not hit it off with Taylor, and Eric was clearly interested in defying both of them. Though Taylor did begin to wonder if Eric's interest in her wasn't more about pissing off his brother than anything to do with her.

Taylor resolved then that her interests came first, and though she wanted to stay friendly with Hannah and she didn’t want to divide siblings, she was beginning to feel that everyone in this conversation had an agenda for her that did not at all take into consideration her feelings. She decided that what she desired most at the moment was space. It was only her second day on campus, and everyone already had expectations of her.

You know what? Taylor said. I think I could use some fresh air.

She stood and all three of her lunch companions stood up with her.

Which is code for ‘me time’, she said with a sigh.

Eric and Joseph sat back down, but Hannah didn’t move.

Taylor walked towards the door, and she could hear Hannah following behind.

Hannah, Taylor said, turning to address her.

I’m coming with you.

Look Hannah, I appreciate it, but I haven’t had a moment to myself since I got here. I’ll be fine, I promise.

Hannah appeared poised to protest, but Taylor did not wait to hear it. She pushed open the door and disappeared into the commons.

CHAPTER FIVE

Taylor walked briskly away from the Redmund building, heading in the opposite direction of the dorms. Given Hannah’s apparent need to be with her at all times and Joseph’s ability to pop up seemingly out of thin air, Taylor was more than a little paranoid that one of them would be following her.

It was only when Taylor could no longer see the Student Life Center behind her that she slowed her pace. She realized that she didn’t know where she was going, and she was nowhere near the path that they had followed on the tour. She didn’t know precisely where she was, so it was unlikely that anyone else did either. Finally alone, she felt the weight of the expectations of strangers evaporate.

She looked around to see if anything looked familiar. In front of her were grey buildings much like her dorms, only shorter and even more drab and depressing, if that were possible. A sign in front indicated that these were the East Side Dormitories. Taylor had only the vaguest sense of where her own dorms were in relationship to where she was standing, but she knew that they were located on the west side of campus. She had managed to cross the entire campus, and now that she stopped to think about it, she realized that her legs were sore.

Taylor found a bench at the edge of the sidewalk and plopped down gracelessly. She thought about how this new life still felt very much unlike real life. This campus world did not exist to her two days ago, and now it was her entire universe. The buildings lacked the familiarity that reassured her that they were there yesterday and would be there tomorrow. Taylor would have accepted her new home without reservation, but she knew firsthand that homes could vanish when you were not expecting.

Taylor reminded herself not to dwell on the past and instead turned her thoughts to the events of the day. She understood where Hannah was coming from, but the brothers were a mystery to Taylor. Especially Joseph, whose intentions she could not decipher. She didn’t believe that Eric was dangerous and would assume some sort of sibling jealousy, but she was absolutely certain that Joseph did not like her, and she couldn’t imagine what he would be jealous of.

Looking at her phone, Taylor saw that an hour had passed since she had left the group, and she remembered that she had told Eric that she would hang out with him that afternoon. Though she was feeling stifled by all three of them before, it wasn’t really Eric’s fault. He had been nothing but nice, and even though some of his ideas weren’t up Taylor’s alley, she didn’t feel pressured by him like she did by Joseph and Hannah when they were all together.

It wouldn’t be fair to stand him up just because Joseph and Hannah didn’t approve, so Taylor got up to try to find her way back to her dorm. She wasn’t really sure where she was going, but she could see the top of the Redmund building. Short of asking a stranger for directions, she decided that keeping the Redmund Center ahead of her as she walked was her best bet. Eventually, she decided, she was bound to recognize something.

A few minutes after getting up, her phone beeped in her pocket. She pulled it out and saw that there were four missed calls: one from Hannah and three from Eric. No voicemails. She couldn’t decide whether three calls from Eric was excessive or flattering, but she did agree to spend time with him after lunch, and here she was. She pressed OK, and another window popped up with a text from Eric.

you OK?

A perfectly nice and pressure-free text, thought Taylor, and she was suddenly embarrassed that she had left so abruptly. She wanted a break from the attention, not more of it, and she realized that her sudden exit probably did not help her cause. If there was a situation brewing, she needed to defuse it. Still, she wasn’t sure if she was ready to jump back into the limelight either. She typed a response.

oh yeah, im fine. sorry... not feeling well

Taylor hit SEND and looked at the message. It was kind of pathetic-sounding. She sent a follow up.

must be the pizza ;-)

The reply came almost instantly.

where ru?

Taylor looked around, still not quite sure where she was besides somewhere on campus. She could still see the Redmund building, so she assumed that she was going in the right direction. She looked around for some indication of where she was besides the top of the Redmund building in the distance, but everything was unfamiliar to her. Since it was the only building she recognized, she continued on after sending a reply to Eric.

getting some rest. can we hang out later?

This time there was no immediate response, so Taylor continued walking in the direction of the Student Life building.

His reply came a few minutes later.

2nite?

Taylor thought about it for a moment. Even though she had just resolved to not stand him up, she found that resolve almost immediately wavering. It might have been in part due to the constant warnings about Eric, but if she were honest with herself, it had as much to do with being nervous about hanging out with a cute guy. She decided on a compromise that would give her room to overcome her nerves without giving in to Joseph and Hannah.

how about tomorrow?

Eric’s reply came immediately this time.

k. will call u

Taylor began to type out something about missing him or seeing him later or looking forward to tomorrow but couldn’t settle on how to sound flirty but not obsessive. She settled with hard-to-get and sent nothing.

Looking up, she realized that she was approaching the dorms. She had been so distracted by the texts and thoughts of Eric that she didn’t notice at first that she had found her way back almost by accident. Glad to be back in more familiar territory, she slipped her phone into her pocket and approached Summers Hall.

When she arrived outside her room, she could hear Hannah talking inside. Taylor couldn’t hear any other voices, so she assumed Hannah was on the phone. Taylor was about to push on