Last Semester

By Laurel Ostiguy

In Last Semester, the final installment of The Onondaga State Series, Webber Littman is shocked to find out he’s been accused of cheating and is faced with being expelled from OSU. Luckily for him, he’s been assigned a student representative, Hannah Rivers, to help him through the disciplinary process.
But when a heartbroken Webber learns he’s been taken advantage of, his friends convince him that it’s high time nice guys finish first and not last. Abigail discovers there were others involved in the cheating scandal, and she’ll do anything to help prove his innocence—even if that means she must get her hands a little dirty in the process. Will she be able to save Webber from being expelled before she ruins their last year of school?
For this group of friends, it wouldn’t be their last semester at OSU if they don’t find themselves wrapped up in another campus scandal all while a deadly storm is brewing across New York State. Might this be the perfect combination for the beautiful Hannah Rivers to finally meet her match?
Join Webber, Hannah, Abigail, Nathan, and friends as they cautiously enter their senior year. Some with bright futures ahead and a few not knowing if they’ll even be able to graduate.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Laurel Ostiguy
• Release date: Oct 20, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215193884

Laurel Ostiguy

Laurel (Kupillas) Ostiguy was born in Queensbury, New York—a town sandwiched between Lake George and Saratoga Springs—where she still visits with friends and family. She currently lives outside of Boston, Massachusetts. She commutes into Boston for a job she loves at a financial firm.She attended Plymouth State University and graduated in 1997. She is now married to her college sweetheart, Jeff, and they have two sons. She also received her master’s degree from Northeastern University in 2003. When she is not working in Boston, she loves to spend time with her family and friends as well as skiing, skating, swimming, writing, or just enjoying the beautiful New England seasons.

Book preview

OTHER BOOKS BY LAUREL OSTIGUY

THE ONONDAGA STATE SERIES

Last Goodbye

Longing to Be

Lying in Wait

Lessons in Love

Last Semester

By Laurel Ostiguy

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2023 by Laurel Ostiguy

All rights reserved.

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Visit my website at www.LaurelOstiguy.com

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TikTok: @authorlaurelo

Email: [e-mail]

Cover Layout by Qamber Designs

Cover Branding by RBA Designs | Romantic Book Affairs

Cover Model: Victoria Lynn Morin

Photographer: Lindee Robinson Photography

Editor and Interior Designer: Jovana Shirley, Unforeseen Editing, www.unforeseenediting.com

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system without the written permission of the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

ISBN-13: 979-8-218-27694-2

Contents

Thank You and Acknowledgments

A Note to the Reader

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

Eleven

Twelve

Thirteen

Fourteen

Fifteen

Sixteen

Seventeen

Eighteen

Nineteen

Twenty

Twenty-One

Twenty-Two

Twenty-Three

Twenty-Four

Twenty-Five

Twenty-Six

Twenty-Seven

Twenty-Eight

Twenty-Nine

Thirty

Thirty-One

Thirty-Two

Thirty-Three

Thirty-Four

Thirty-Five

Thirty-Six

Thirty-Seven

Thirty-Eight

Thirty-Nine

Forty

Forty-One

Forty-Two

Forty-Three

Forty-Four

Forty-Five

Forty-Six

Forty-Seven

Forty-Eight

Forty-Nine

Fifty

Fifty-One

Fifty-Two

Fifty-Three

Fifty-Four

Fifty-Five

Fifty-Six

Fifty-Seven

Fifty-Eight

Fifty-Nine

Sixty

Sixty-One

Sixty-Two

Thank You and Acknowledgments

Thank you to Cielo, Gaby, Jesse, and Judy for your feedback and help. Thank you to Lindee and Najla for your creative collaborations. A special thanks to my editor, Jovana, for your guidance, encouragement, and support over the years as I made my way through this series. Much appreciation!

Thank you to everyone who read the series and supported me throughout this journey. I can’t thank you enough!

Lastly, to my family and friends, I dedicate this book to you. J, C, B, all my love.

A Note to the Reader

Last Semester picks up where the series left off during the second semester of the students’ junior year, circa 1998.

Abigail Price is trying to reestablish her friendships after learning that her roommate Laura Chase and her closest friend, Tank, have been secretly dating for months. She’s also coming to terms with the fact that the devastating story surrounding her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Ryan, and Poppy was nothing but a rumor. And what made matters worse was when she discovered her boyfriend, Kelly Conrad, knew the accusation was false and never told her.

But Abigail has no choice but to put her feelings aside and join forces with her friends when her longtime lab partner, Webber Littman, is delivered the news that he’s been accused by the university of plagiarism.

As part of the school’s process, Webber is assigned a representative to help him. Hannah Rivers, a junior, has assisted on numerous cases just like Webber’s. Her job is to guide him through the procedure in the hopes of determining, through a fair and respectful trial, the truth as to whom the guilty party is.

And of course, there’s plenty of romance and drama. I hope you enjoy the final novel in The Onondaga State Series!

One

The Accused

Webber Littman discreetly wipes his clammy hands down the front of his pants as he takes a seat in Weston Hall, room 457. Butterflies swirl in his stomach as he clamps his mouth shut to avoid vomiting on the overpriced mahogany table. But it’s merely impossible to keep his emotions in check, as he’s been on a roller-coaster ride ever since he received that voice mail message. The one that was left on his answering machine, instructing him to be in this exact room promptly at nine a.m. today or else there would be consequences.

Sitting next to him is Hannah Rivers, the representative that was assigned to him by the school. She’s wearing a navy blazer with a white oxford shirt underneath, jeans stretching over her lean, long legs, and penny loafers on her feet. Her golden-brown hair is elegantly tied back in a bun at the nape of her neck. She has on dark, sophisticated glasses, yet you can see her bright blue eyes behind the glass. She looks professional, flawlessly playing the part.

Mr. Littman, you have been accused of plagiarizing your final thesis by using the ideas or work of another person or persons as if they were your own. Which led Professor Johnson to review your prior submissions and tests. He, therefore, found evidence to suggest that you had…

And that is around the moment when Webber’s hearing ceases and the hard pound of his heart is the only thing he can comprehend.

And that’s because Webber—the timid, geeky five-ten guy with spiked brown hair and soft chocolate-colored eyes, masked behind his wire-rimmed glasses—is now white as a ghost, hands gripping on tight to the edge of his pants to keep them from shaking.

He’s a biology major, wanting to pursue an advanced degree in veterinary science. But to his roommates and friends, he’s playfully nicknamed Spidey. He obsessively plays video games until the late hours of the morning when not studying. He clearly has a love for animals, or he’d be in the wrong major. Most importantly, he would do anything for a friend, like the time he walked to the store in the middle of a snowstorm to get Nathan cold medicine. Which makes this accusation even more baffling. Webber, of all people, accused of cheating toward the end of his junior year. Why him? Why now? In fact, none of his friends have any idea what the hell is going on.

Thankfully, Hannah’s in attendance as an advocate and to listen to the initial allegations. Once they know all the details, she’ll help him prepare his case.

Do you have any questions? Jeffrey Woods, the head of the Undergraduate Disciplinary Division, asks.

Webber snaps back to the present. Yes. I don’t understand.

What is your question, Mr. Littman?

Hannah gently nudges his leg under the table.

I meant, can I get a copy of the documents for me to review? he asks, having been coached by Hannah just hours before this meeting.

Mr. Woods clears his throat, and then with a slight smirk, he says, Do you have any questions for Professor Johnson, who is present today? As if him being here was some sort of inconvenience for him.

Inconvenience? I’m being accused of all sorts of things I know for a fact I have not done. That’s a major inconvenience!

Professor Johnson, I don’t know how this could be. All the work is mine. There must be some mistake, he begs.

With narrowed eyes, he says, I wouldn’t be here if I thought this was a mistake. He glances over at Mr. Woods with a chuckle, which infuriates Webber.

Mr. Woods hands Webber a file with his name on the top. Please review these prior to our next meeting.

Webber starts flipping through the contents. He sees his paper, red marks all over it. Pushing his glasses back up on the bridge of his nose, he says, I wrote this. All of this. On my own. I don’t understand.

Please have Hannah review the student conduct book with you regarding the rules of plagiarism, and we will reconvene at our next meeting.

Come on, Webber, she says softly as Mr. Woods opens the door for them.

Webber, hunched shoulders and all, reluctantly drags himself toward the door. Despite feeling the sudden urge to punch Professor Johnson in the face and drop-kick Mr. Woods, he never forgets his manners. Thank you both for your time, he says as he exits ahead of Hannah.

Come on in, Webber says, opening the door to his apartment.

He immediately hears, He’s back, being yelled from the living room.

You’d think someone died by the way his roommates and friends are all sitting quietly in the living room. No television is on, and no one is talking. They’re all simply waiting for him to say something before anyone will make a move.

Guys, this is Hannah, my student union rep, Webber mumbles.

Tank has his arm around his girlfriend, Laura. Logan, Webber’s other roommate, is sitting with his longtime girlfriend, Melissa, on the other couch. By the looks of concern on their faces, they have been eagerly waiting his return. Abigail emerges from the kitchen with a glass of water at about the same time Nathan comes bounding down the stairs from his bedroom.

Webber was advised not to say a word to anyone about the pending accusations, but it was impossible to keep the news from his friends. Eventually, Aubrey Van Tousen, Bree to her friends—the girls’ other roommate—will know because, as of right now, she’s the only one in the two houses who doesn’t know, and they might need her, considering her connection to Professor Adam Cooper, her boyfriend of three years.

So, count Wolfie, who works for the student paper, and Hannah, and that’s about as many people as he needs in his business yet—an equal number of friends by his side.

How did it go? Abigail asks.

Horrible.

"Webber, Hannah says. May I?" she asks, taking a step forward.

She’s a rather striking-looking young woman in that classy prep-school-girl kind of way. She nervously clears her throat as a hush falls over the room.

Hi, everyone. Um, I’m Hannah Rivers. So, I advise students throughout the course of the disciplinary process. I’ll navigate the student code of conduct with Webber, help him understand what rights he has, and basically support him throughout by answering his questions.

How many of these have you done? I’m Logan, by the way, Webber’s roommate.

Nice to meet you, Logan. I’ve done about twenty-seven of these.

Jesus, Tank hollers. Tank—he waves—Webber’s other roommate. So, how did it go today?

It was standard. We received the papers to go through. Professor Johnson indicated Webber plagiarized his thesis, which forced him to review other tests, and therefore, he claims he found more red flags. But we won’t know more until we look through the folder, she says as Webber flops into the kitchen chair, resting his head in his hands.

Abigail immediately rushes over to him and starts rubbing his back.

I didn’t do it, Webber moans.

We know, buddy. We know, Nathan says and then glances at Hannah. Nathan Ryan, Webber’s roommate since freshman year. He lends a slight smile. When is the next meeting?

Wait. Are you guys football players? she asks, her cheeks pinking as she points to Nathan and Tank.

Yes. We’re cocaptains, Tank says, puffing his chest.

Laura whacks him on the arm as she playfully says, I can feel your ego taking up space in the room.

He laughs. Girl, you’re one to talk. This is Laura Chase.

Hannah shakes her head. "As in the DJ on the radio? The news? That Laura? Wow, you’re amazing!" she gushes.

Thank you so much, Laura says with clear embarrassment. And this—she points to Melissa—"is Melissa Rice, the student editor of The Weekly Blue. The head woman in charge."

Hannah blinks a few times, and again nearly in shock, she replies, That’s equally amazing. What a great job you’ve done. It’s a big position.

Thank you. I love it. My boyfriend, Logan, is on a full ride to the school on a math scholarship. That’s pretty special, too. She laughs as he places his arm around her.

Enough, you guys, Abigail says. We get it. They all spin to glance at her as she continues to rub Webber’s back as he remains hunched over in the chair. Sorry. You’re all so fabulous. She stops her hand. Hi, Hannah. I’m Webber’s friend, Abigail Price. Nothing special otherwise, she says.

Webber picks up his head, and with complete conviction, he says, "Abigail is one of my very best friends and has also been my lab partner for three years. We have the same major, and I trust her wholeheartedly. I’d say that’s pretty fucking special."

She— Nathan quickly snaps his mouth shut as his cheeks become a rosy red.

No, no, Webber, this is actually a good thing, Hannah says. You have quite the team of friends backing you. This can only be to your benefit. You guys are focused, obviously successful academically to be able to hold the extracurricular jobs you have at the university. I see this as a major win for you. Part of the process involves character witnesses.

It does? Webber asks.

Yes, they will want to know about you, your history at the school. And these guys standing up for you? Well, I’m sure it can’t make you look badly—wouldn’t you agree?

For the first time, Webber laughs. These clowns?

Hey, hey. Tank chuckles. I’m a big deal around here.

As if on cue, they all say at the same time, We know, forcing everyone to laugh.

It even gets a little smile from Abigail.

You will also get to choose one person to be with you during these meetings, moving forward. It must be the same person each time. They will only allow that person and me. I will remain as your representative if you’re happy with me.

Thank you, Hannah. And, yes, I appreciate what you’ve done so far, so if you can continue, that works for me, and I’d like it to be Abi—

May I suggest Nathan as your plus-one? she says, glancing at him.

Oh, Webber quickly replies, sensing the tension as Abigail removes her hand on his back.

He has been your roommate since you were freshmen—isn’t that correct?

Yes, both Nathan and Webber reply.

And living together is quite intimate in terms of habits, studying, acclimating to school, and it’s clear you two have seen one another through years of schooling. So, while I think all your friends have a lot to bring to the table, I would recommend him. She quickly turns to Abigail and says, No offense to anyone.

It’s what’s best for Webber, Abigail mumbles, trying not to sound rejected.

Of course, I’ll do it, Nathan says.

Hannah, eager to solidify the plans and be on her way, asks, Okay, then. I can meet you guys in the library or—

Here, Webber quickly says. If you don’t mind. I don’t want anyone to see us.

Fine by me. Wednesday work for you both?

Nathan nods, and Webber mumbles, Yes.

As Hannah strides to the door, Webber rises to escort her. Thank you, Hannah, he says.

See you soon.

She exits, and as he closes it, he leans back against it, closing his eyes, trying desperately to wish away this nightmare. He can feel their presence before anything. Slowly opening his eyes, he finds all his friends waiting for him at the end of the hallway. The expression on their faces, while empathic, makes him want to scream and hide under his covers for the foreseeable future.

Laura is the first to speak. Can I get a copy of everything they gave you today? Wolfie will want to look.

Sure.

I thought maybe we should let Bree know, too, Webber, Abigail says. You know she went through something similar, and she does have Professor Cooper in her corner. He might be able to give you his take on all this from a faculty standpoint. An unbiased opinion.

Good thought, Nathan chimes in.

They all mumble in agreement as Abigail’s skin flushes at Nathan’s approval of her idea.

Anything to help my case, Webber says. I’ll get you guys copies and drop them off.

Sounds good. If you need me in the meantime, call me, Abigail says as she pulls on her jean jacket. I’ve got some studying to do.

I’ve got to get back to the paper, Melissa says, placing a kiss on Logan’s cheek.

And I need to study if I’m ever going to get my thesis done, Logan adds.

I can’t believe there are only a few weeks left in the year, Laura says and then immediately pauses.

Don’t remind me, Webber adds.

Sorry, Laura says.

Not your fault, he says.

It’s all you can control for now, Tank adds.

I’m trying, but it’s not easy, Webber says. I’m going to go to my room and chill. Thanks, guys. Webber grabs the folder and heads up the stairs.

Webber opens the door, tosses the folder on his bed, and immediately steps in front of his dresser. Gently, he removes the watch his great-grandfather wore in World War II and places it back in the case. He slumps forward, leaning his average-height frame on the front of the drawer.

Lifting his head enough to peek at his reflection, he takes in his thin features and his chocolate-brown eyes behind his wire-rimmed glasses. He hates the man looking back at him. He’s always been one to play by the rules, study hard, and do what’s right. He takes pride in being a good student. Therefore, to be accused of cheating is not only embarrassing, but he knows it could also cost him everything. And more than anything, he hates that he might have let his guard down to cause this to happen, and he doesn’t know how or when.

He pushes off the dresser with might, knocking it back against the wall. He pulls at his once-spiked dark hair, now wavy and unkempt, until it hurts.

You’re such a fool, he says angrily. How could you be blindsided and not have seen this coming?

Grabbing the first object his hand touches, he flings the book against the wall. The irony of his room being filled with novels is not lost on him. A frustrated sigh escapes his lips as it crashes to the floor. Laughing to himself, he picks up a large pile of papers and hurls them around his room. He keeps going until not one book or paper is left in its place.

Being so neat and orderly his whole life has gotten him nowhere, and he must admit, throwing everything around feels good. He slinks down along the edge of his bed frame until he hits the floor with a thud.

He grabs the folder off the bed and goes right for the thesis. He scours the pages, consumed by the red markings and comments noted. The facts are accurate, the words are his, and he can’t for the life of him imagine how Professor Johnson concluded what he did.

Sickened to his very core, he tosses the file on the floor next to him and rests his head against his bed. He’s tried so hard to be perfect. Get perfect grades. Never break the law. Follow the straight line. Obey the rules.

Yet here he sits, accused of a terrible misconduct, one that could cost him his degree, and all he wants to do is make it go away.

But will it? Or will I not be graduating next year?

Two

Pretty Difficult Girls

Webber! a high-pitched feminine voice yells, stopping him in his tracks in front of the Union.

He turns as Daisy comes running up to him.

Hey, where are you heading off to? she asks in her usual bubbly tone.

I’m grabbing a coffee and then… But his voice merely fades away.

You okay? She uses her hand to shield the sun from her sparkling blue eyes.

Just tired, he replies.

Duh, silly. It’s hell week. Everyone is studying their brains out. No one is sleeping, she scoffs.

Right, he says glumly.

Anyhoo, we are all going to Monroe’s tonight. Heather, Noah, Hugh, you know. Tell Nathan, too. Okay?

Sure. He has very little interest in socializing, let alone drinking, but he’ll ask Nathan either way. Maybe it’s what they both need to blow off some steam at the end of a long week of studying.

And like that, she spins and saunters away, swinging those slim hips of hers back and forth. Normally, Webber would stare at her ass as she walked away—she’s confident enough to know it—but not today. Instead, he immediately enters the Union and grabs a coffee before returning home to meet Hannah and Nathan.

Webber opens the door to his apartment and hates the sounds of laughter that hit his eardrums.

Hey, Spidey, Nathan says as Webber enters the room.

Spidey? Hannah asks.

Webber places his coffee on the table and sits in the chair across from her. Eyes rolling, he says, Nathan here gave me that nickname, what, second day we met? And it stuck.

It’s a term of endearment, she says.

That’s what I tried to tell him. You don’t give nicknames to people if it’s not meant as a sign of friendship. He slaps Webber on the arm. See, I told you.

Whatever, he grumbles. So, Hannah, what horrible news do you have for me today? he asks.

"Webber," Nathan says.

What?

I know. I’m never anyone’s favorite person, she says, her cheeks flushing.

I’m sorry. You know what I meant. I can’t believe this is happening. I read over my paper, and everything he marked is bullshit.

Okay, that was going to be my question. I need all the reference guides, resources, and records from the library you checked out. They don’t allow me to get that. Only you can. Can you do that for me?

He leans back in the kitchen chair, and what starts as a measured chuckle slowly rises to a laugh. Nathan and Hannah exchange glances.

You’ve got to be kidding me, Webber says as his incessant laughing fades. He pulls at his hair, sticking it straight up.

No. Why? she says.

Well, that might take a while. My maid is off this week, and my room is a bit of a mess.

Nathan cocks his head. You’re joking, right? Your room is spotless.

Not anymore. Had a little hissy fit and threw all my books and papers everywhere. Not my finest moment, but it felt pretty damn good.

Nathan nods and says, I can see how it would.

Hannah sighs. While I’m sure it felt good, let’s try and help ourselves here by keeping our eye on the ball. The quicker we get what we need and get this over with, the sooner you can put this all behind you.

"Where were you the other night?" Webber jokes.

Again, her skin pinks as she straightens the dark frames perched on her slender nose. I’m sure I was studying.

Nathan clears his throat. By the way, what year are you, Hannah? We’ve—at least, I’ve never seen you around before.

I’m a junior.

Sorry, Hannah. In all this madness, I’ve never asked you about yourself. Like where are you from? What’s your major? Webber asks with a weak yet kind smile.

I’m from North Carolina. I’m majoring in education. I plan to get my master’s in education after graduation.

Impressive, Nathan says. My uncle owns a charter and fishing company in North Carolina. I’ve spent many summers helping him. Been there quite a bit.

I do miss the weather, she says with a genuine smile. It took me a while to get used to the winters.

I can imagine. They can be brutal. Webber pauses. But anyway, I will get you my stuff soon. When’s our next meeting?

Unfortunately, with finals, it was difficult to schedule. So, a week from today.

Jesus, Webber barks. This is killing me!

I know, she says, placing her hand on top of his.

He notes how kind her eyes are. Thanks. He smiles.

It also gives us a lot of time to prepare and for you to concentrate on studying. You need to do well in your other classes to prove yet again what a great student you are.

A-plus student, he boasts.

Correct, she says, gently rubbing his hand. And one more thing. Her voice softens, and her brows bend with concern. She continues, I know this will be hard, but it was brought to my attention that you will not be able to claim your spot within the student apartments for next semester.

Webber pulls his hand back and looks around the kitchen. "Here, my apartment?"

"Wait, what? Nathan says. That can’t be true."

I know. I tried to find a workaround. But until this is resolved, your status for expulsion remains pending, so the school will not allow you to claim a spot in student housing that another student in good standing is eligible for.

Standing abruptly, Webber knocks the chair back into the wall. Sorry, Hannah. Sorry. But fuck! he shouts. Could this get any worse?!

I agree. You could speak to someone in the housing department, but I can tell you this has happened before, and it didn’t go their way. They tend not to lean in favor of those pending a violation versus a student who is eligible to enter the lottery. As you know, these spots fill up so quickly.

Okay. Well, Professor Johnson has completely ruined my life, and I officially hope something terrible happens to that guy so he knows how I feel right now! Webber picks back up the chair and pushes it in. "Thank you, Hannah. But I have some schoolwork to cheat on. So, if you’ll excuse me," he says as he hurries up the stairs.

Sorry about all that, Nathan says as he walks her toward the door. I’ll get his stuff ready, like you asked, and we’ll talk to you soon.

I know this is hard, Nathan. He’ll need his friends now more than ever.

After Hannah exits, Nathan bounds up the stairs two at a time. He knocks on Webber’s door. He tries pushing it open but is met with resistance. Jesus, you weren’t kidding.

His room is an absolute mess. Papers, books, clothes—everything that once had a place no longer does.

Webber’s sitting on the floor, tears streaking down his cheeks. He wipes them off with the back of his hand and says, All I need is for you to go to Monroe’s with me tonight. Everyone is going to be there. I need to blow off some steam before next week, or I might fucking snap.

Webber’s out of sorts, and it’s not the disarray of his room that’s necessarily clueing Nathan in. He appears drawn and lost. Like someone replaced the Webber from freshman year and reconstructed a version of him that is weaker, hopeless, and depressed and then aged him twenty years. Nathan takes another look around the room.

I’ve known Spidey for so long. So, how could it be possible that any of these things they’re accusing him of are true?

Is he angry at himself for something he did?

Or something he let someone do to him?

And who could that possibly be?

Did he let someone get close enough to him to take advantage of him? And is now paying the price for it?

Yet again, I can’t believe he’d knowingly cheat in any of these scenarios.

Nathan?

Yeah, Spidey? He glances at his friend. Sorry. Nathan searches his bloodshot eyes, and noting the desperation staring back at him, quickly replies, Of course. Let’s go.

Monroe’s is packed. Wall to wall.

One glance from the bouncer at the door, and he waves Nathan and Webber to the front of the line. Hey, good to see you. Have a good night, he says.

There are grumbles from those waiting in line. But it’s hard to care when it’s you that’s being let in.

Nathan and Webber enter and move toward the bar. They order a few beers as Webber eagerly searches the crowd for his friends. Nathan has little interest in hanging out with them, but he does it for Webber, now more than ever. In their own subtle ways, they—Tank, Logan, and Nathan—have made it known they don’t care for Daisy and her friends.

Daisy Mains is that typical girl who’s probably gotten everything she’s ever wanted by flaunting her sexuality. And it didn’t take long for Tank and Nathan to realize that Webber had taken the bait, too. The two had classes together, and as soon as she found out he was roommates with two of the biggest stars on the football team, she dug her claws in deeper. She started coming around, bringing her friends—like Heather, Noah, and worst of all, her annoying friend Amber. They’d entice Webber to throw parties in the apartment in Parkers Village, and to Webber, it felt like he had his own social circle for the first time. Nathan and Tank could tell Webber wanted Daisy to like him. But they knew better. She was using him.

They all were.

But how do you tell your best friend that without crushing his soul?

Nathan couldn’t.

He hoped Webber would figure it out on his own.

I see them over there, he yells as he swipes his beer off the counter. Not a word about today to anyone, okay?

Of course, Nathan says as he follows him, desperately searching for someone he might know to hang with, preferably someone from the football team. But instead, his eyes land on Bree’s. And unfortunately, standing next to her is his ex-girlfriend, Abigail; her new boyfriend, who he despises with every bone in his body, Kelly Conrad; and Kelly’s sister, Alex, is near Webber’s group.

Fuck, Nathan mumbles to himself.

Every time I see the two of them together, I’m reminded of how I let my popularity on campus and football push aside my relationship with Abby. To this day, it’s my greatest regret. Not a day goes by that I don’t envision some grand gesture where I walk up to her and profess the horrible mistake I made, and somehow, it erases everything. But I’m quickly dropped back down to reality when I see the two of them, cozied up at a bar, and I feel like puking.

Webber is greeted with a huge hug by Daisy. Webby, she screams.

Webber wraps his arms tightly around her. But Nathan notices she tries to pry his hands off her. She’s subtle, but if you’re looking for it, like Nathan is, it’s clear the signs are there. She’s not into him like he’s into her.

Nathan acknowledges Bree and the group. He even gets a smile from Abigail. He awkwardly stands between the two groups, hand shoved deep into one pocket while he sips his beer. He fights the urge in his body to push his way back through the crowd and run straight back home. But he knows he’s here to support his friend.

And just when he thinks it can’t get worse, she steps in front of his view. Amber. The girl he kicked out of his room a month or so back. He should’ve known she’d be here. She’s friends with them after all.

Hey, Nathan, she says, pouting her lips. Her tone is particularly perturbed.

Hey. He purposely looks past her, hoping she’ll go away.

"What’ve you been up to?" she asks.

Is she baiting me or something? Nothing. Studying for finals. You?

Same. She takes a sip of her cocktail. Some girlie pink drink. So… She peers up, fluttering her eyes.

Oh boy. Here we go.

You still single?

I should have guessed.

As a matter of fact, I am, he says, trying to sound confident.

She laughs. Obviously, because isn’t that your ex-girlfriend over there with that total hottie? She points in their direction.

Why Nathan follows the direction of her finger, he’ll never know, but as soon as he looks over, two sets of eyes land on his. Embarrassment floods over him as Kelly and Abigail see Amber laughing as she points at them, and although he’s certain they can’t hear the conversation, they can probably deduce what it’s about.

He clears his throat. Can I help you with something?

Irritated beyond measure, he feels a light touch on his shoulder, and then the sweetest smell hits his nose, suddenly calming his senses. He turns his head as she starts to come into view—and, boy, does she ever. Her tall, model-like figure, flowing chestnut hair, and glowing skin even have Amber’s jaw dropping.

Bree saunters past Amber. Without a care for their trivial conversation, she says, Nathan, sweetheart, I’ve been waiting for you to get here all night. Come dance with me. She runs the tips of her fingers down his muscular arm and then links hers through his. She leans in, placing a perfectly lipstick-outlined kiss on his cheek. Please, she begs.

He glances at her, smiling. Only for you, babe, he says.

Bree pulls him toward the crowded center of the room and whisks her arms around his neck. In return, he wraps his tightly around her waist and leans into her.

Then, he whispers in her ear, Boy, am I glad you’re here.

She whispers back, That bitch giving you a hard time?

"Yep. Tried hooking up with me a few weeks ago, and she wanted Nathan Ryan, the football player."

Bree whips her head back and locks eyes with him. Oh, the nerve of her.

She’s Daisy’s roommate, so I tried tolerating her but she was just pointing out ever so nicely that I’m still single and Abigail is dating Kelly. Who, apparently, is a hottie. As though I need to be reminded, he says. So, thanks for saving me.

Ouch. That’s harsh. What a loser. She glances over to make sure Amber is watching. She leans in closer. And anytime. You send out the signal, and Bree is there for you.

He laughs.

Her expression becomes serious. You doing okay?

Am I supposed to tell you yes? he jokes.

No. You can tell me the truth. It’s not like I don’t know you miss Abigail, Nathan. It’s painfully obvious.

I know. It sucks so bad. I honestly think I’ll never get over her. His eyes lower.

Is that why you keep getting into fights?

Quickly glancing back up, he says, Who told you that?

Well, you’re not the troublemaker kind and—oh hell, it was Jason. But don’t tell him I told you. You know he’s always had a crush on me, and we sit together in class, and he loves to go on and on. So, he tells me all the gossip.

Whatever. It’s hard to be mad at anyone but myself. And besides, I had to defend Abby. Some guys at a party were talking shit about her, so I freaked out. I shouldn’t let it get to me, but I’m just so…

Listen, Bree says. Nothing is certain in life. So, don’t give up.

Really?

Hey, you didn’t hear this from me, okay? But Kelly is graduating in a couple of weeks, and I’ll leave it at that.

Nathan glances over at the side of the bar. Abigail is laughing while Kelly’s hand is draped around her waist. She looks happy. She’s a mere fifteen feet away from Nathan, and she looks content. This makes Nathan miserable. He doesn’t want her to be unhappy. He simply wants her to be with him and not Kelly.

I suppose I thought she and I would be together forever. He shakes his head, as if to release the thought. He looks down at Bree as they continue to sway to the music. The empathetic expression forces him to say, I do need to concentrate on Webber and football. I’ve got to get those two things heading in the right direction before I can do anything else.

Bree places her hand on his cheek. You’re a great friend, Nathan. Abigail told me everything that’s been going on with Webber. He’s so lucky to have you in his corner. And you’re right. There are far more pressing issues.

The song fades as Nathan pulls Bree in for a deep hug. He kisses her on the forehead. Man, Adam sure hit the jackpot with you, he says.

She gazes up at him with her beautiful brown eyes. And to think, you and I could have once been. Well, let’s be honest, I chased you freshman year.

He puts his arm around her as they make their way over to the bar to grab another drink.

I’m still flattered. But you and I would have been a disaster. He laughs.

True, she says. Besides, you’re way more into blondes.

You seem glum, Daisy says, tugging on Webber’s sleeve.

Do I?

Duh, she says. I just said you do.

He faintly smiles. It’s nothing, really. I’ve been studying a lot for finals, I guess. My brain must be mush.

Me, too. I’ve been studying my brains out—literally, like, so much. Crazy. She twirls a strand of her overprocessed blonde hair around her finger.

I’ve never asked you this, Webber says, his cheeks pinking.

What? she nervously asks.

But you’re always hanging out with me—I mean, us. I never see you with anyone. Do you have a boyfriend?

Oh, that’s what you wanted to ask me? Well, um, she stutters, considering what a common and simple question it is, at the moment, no, I don’t.

Well, would you want to go out sometime? Like, on a date? He swallows the lump in his throat. He can feel the hard beat of his heart as he eagerly anticipates her response.

Daisy pauses, searching his face. Don’t you think that would ruin our friendship?

Crushed. How would I know? He can feel the heat fill his cheeks. Not the answer I was expecting.

"Webber. We’re kind of different, you and I. Don’t you think?"

Different how? He tries to project his voice over the loud beat of the music.

He can tell she’s desperately searching for the right thing to say. She’s even trying to get Heather’s attention from across the room with her eyes. But no such luck. Heather is lip-locked with her boyfriend, Noah.

Don’t worry about it, Daisy. I get it. Will you excuse me?

He spins and searches for Nathan. He should have known he’d be right behind him, as he, too, looks uncomfortable, being here.

Let’s get out of here. I’m ready to go home, Webber barks.

I thought you’d never say that.

The two, without a word to anyone, bolt through the crowd and directly out the door.

Abigail approaches Bree, who was standing near Nathan. Where are they going to in such a hurry?

Home. That’s all I could hear.

Webber looked upset. I’ve been so worried about him, Abigail says.

Me, too.

I’m going to check on him. I think he could use a friend right now.

I’ll go with you, Bree says. We can take my car.

Okay, let me tell Kelly, she says. Abigail turns back toward the crowd and searches for him. He’s nowhere to be found. Alex, where’s your brother?

No clue, she says. Why? What’s up?

Abigail gets on her tippy-toes and scans the crowd, but it’s all but impossible to see. Can you tell him Bree and I left? I need to check on Webber. Tell him I’ll call him.

Okay, I’ll let him know. Everything okay?

Yep. Thanks.

There are things you can tell people and things you can’t.

Abigail made a promise to Webber that she wouldn’t tell anyone outside the circle what he was accused of, and that includes her current boyfriend, Kelly, and his sister, Alex. She also said she’d help him, no matter what.

A determined expression settles on her face as she rushes out of the bar without talking to her boyfriend because that’s what this moment calls for. Webber would do it for her. No doubt about it.

Not everyone can understand our relationship, the years we’ve spent side by side, but something in his mannerisms tonight tells me he got bad news today. I can feel it. And something tells me he’s going to need my help.

Three

Stroke of Midnight

Nathan and Webber walk back toward the student apartments in silence.

Nathan notices the contemplative expression on his friend’s face and must ask, Is this about your situation at school?

No, he whispers.

Then, why were you in such a hurry to leave? Not that I minded. At all, he reassures him.

We have beer at the house?

I think so, yeah.

Good.

Webber keys into the apartment, heads straight for the refrigerator, and takes out a can of Natty Light. Want one?

Sure. He takes it and then asks, "You going to tell me what’s up, or is this a stewing in silence kind of thing?"

Webber plops down on the couch. "I finally get the nerve to ask her out, and she tells me we’re different? Different?"

Ah, man. I’m sorry. That brat. Not surprised.

I mean, what do I say to that? And then she brought the friendship part in, too. I don’t know. Maybe I’m destined to never find anyone. I’m almost a senior in college, on the verge of getting kicked out, and I’ve never had a girlfriend. He takes several gulps of his beer and then says, "And I’ve had you—the most popular guy on campus—for a roommate for three years. Could that be the most pathetic thing you’ve ever heard?"

Spidey, it’s not pathetic. Maybe she’s not the right one.

But I like her.

Oh Lord. What do I say to that? Get over her. She’s never going to like you back.

Nathan tries to hide the judgment in his voice when he asks, So, what do you like about her?

She’s hot, nice, and…

Takes advantage of you. Only hangs out with you for what, your brains, football access? What? Tell me, please, because I really want to know.

Well, you put it out there, and maybe she’ll come to her senses and see you differently now that she knows you’re interested in her.

He hates the look of hope in Webber’s eyes. Is it false hope? Who knows? Only time will tell, but Nathan has a strong hunch about this girl. They all do, and for some reason, none of them think this is going to end well.

Knock, knock.

Both Webber and Nathan glance over at their door.

I’ll get it, Nathan says.

Approaching the door, he pulls it open and almost can’t believe his eyes. His voice cracks as he says, Oh, hi.

Hi. Sorry to bother you, Abigail says. We wanted to see if Webber’s okay.

Right. Yeah, come on in. He tries to mask his disappointment.

Thanks, Bree says as they pass by him and head down the hallway. They find Webber slouched down on the couch.

Hey, Abigail says.

Oh, hey. What are you guys doing here? he asks.

I saw you leave, and you seemed upset. Did something happen today? Did you hear anything new? Abigail says, crouching before him.

He takes her hand. Yeah, I did.

Oh no. What? Bree says as she takes a seat in the chair in the corner.

Hannah told me I won’t be able to claim my spot in this apartment for next semester because my status for expulsion remains pending. The school won’t allow me to take up a space that another student could.