I have been at CRU for a week now and it has been so much fun. I split my time between hanging with Rusty, Rebecca, Uncle Josh, the KT's and Cappie. Rusty and Rebecca have become my best friends here. The KT's are like brothers to me at this point they are hilarious I like hanging out with them. Uncle Josh and I are close as ever, which is great.
Cappie and I, well we flirt a lot and I really like him. He's this party boy, but there is this whole other side to him. He is so sweet, he's smart, he is super funny, and he is just a great guy. Uncle Josh has been talking about him a lot when we hang out I think he is pushing me towards Cappie and I don't know how I feel about that,
Rebecca doesn't think much of Cappie, but she says I should trust my own judgment. She owned up to the fact she can be a little shallow so of course she wouldn't think highly of Cappie. I appreciated her honesty,
Rusty idealizes Cappie so he definitely wants me to go out with him. I swear the boy hero worships Cappie which I don't blame him for. Cappie gave him a chance when no one else would and it was not for Casey or to get him to keep something from Casey, it was because they liked him for himself.
I have talked to my parents three times in the last week. I told them about choosing ZBZ, about Rusty and Rebecca, and I told them about Cappie. They weren't a huge fan of the age difference, but they did say if I liked him I should go for it. I love having supportive parents they are the best, I love them.
I will admit out of everyone I have spent time with I spent the most time with Cappie this week. I have literally seen him every day since the day we meet. So it have been ten days in a row, but who's counting? I may have stayed over there accidentally two more times since the first time. I really like Cappie, it is literally impossible not to I swear.
Hazing for ZBZ really hasn't been too bad. Rusty, however, has a lot to do. Like right now he is doing Cappie's laundry, which includes ironing and folding. I adore Cappie, but the boy definitely uses his pledges to his advantage. He's resourceful if nothing else.
Tonight Rebecca and I decided to go out for a late dinner. We just finished eating and are making our way to her car. As we get close to her car Casey and Ashleigh stop us and say, "Rebecca Logan and Riley Matthews."
Rebecca says, "Hey guys." They are kind of scaring her and they are really scaring me. This is super creepy. I wonder what they are up to? Rebecca steps back and says, "What's up?"
I say, "Yeah guys you are scaring us." This is getting beyond weird and I really want to know what they are up to.
Suddenly they let out matching squeals and hand us pink teddy bears. Casey says, "We're kidnapping you for pledge orientation and midnight snacks at the house." Ashleigh opens the door for us and I slide in first.
As Rebecca is getting in she says, "You guys scared us." I look over at them and I can tell Casey is not at all comfortable with this. I haven't hung out with Casey or Ashleigh this week, but I have been texting Ashleigh. She's literally so cool I love talking to her.
Casey says, "No reason to be scared." That look on her face is seriously super sketchy. As Rebecca walks to the car Casey pushes her and I can honestly say I saw that coming.
Rebecca says, "Ow! Hey!" I honestly think Rebecca forgot about the Casey, Evan, and her thing because she hasn't brought it up again and she doesn't seem to understand why Casey is so hostile towards her. Or maybe she doesn't think it is a big deal, I mean it's not technically her fault I guess.
Casey says, "Opps. Sorry." Rebecca gets in the car and I see Ashleigh shoot Casey a look. I just shake my head. Not judging Casey, but she hooked up with my uncle to get back at her boyfriend; I don't think she can judge Rebecca anymore.
As we rode over to the ZBZ house Casey says, "So Riley have I been seeing you around campus with Cappie?"
I smile and say, "Yeah we have been hanging out. I kind of like him honestly. Is that going to cause any problems between us? That is the last thing I want."
She smiles at me and says, "No of course not. I left Cappie in freshman year and I wish you the best of luck in dealing with him. You could be good for him, plus maybe you can convince him to go easy on Rusty. Convince your Uncle too please."
I laugh and tell her, "I'll do my best you know those two do whatever they want too. Rusty is currently doing Cappie's laundry."
They both laugh and Ashleigh says, "Of course he is." We just laugh and make small talk the rest of the drive to the ZBZ house. I thought about talking to Casey about my uncle, but now does not seem like the time.
When we get to the house Ashleigh and Casey walk in ahead of us then Becca and I walk in together. We meet with the other pledges and grab some of the snacks they have set out for all of us. I see my annoying roommate and I do what I have been doing all week, I avoid her. Rebecca knows how much I can't stand Jen. She has been helping me avoid her. She can't stand her either, she thinks she is super annoying.
Casey steps up in front of everyone and says, "Ok, so tomorrow is our annual pledge scavenger hunt. Meet me in the quad. And Thursday is our big sis little sis revealing, where you'll learn who will be your big sister."
We all cheer. I really hope I get Ashleigh as my big sis I adore her she's the best! Ashleigh says, "Let's eat." Before I can do so Rebecca drags me over to Casey and Frannie. So I set my plate down and follow.
When we get to them Rebecca says, "I'm so excited to be here. I feel like you all can take such great care of us." She's good if I didn't know her I would have bought the act she is putting on for everyone.
Frannie says, "Hey, Casey, why don't you go show Rebecca her new room."
Casey says, "Fun!" That was the fakest fun I have ever heard in my entire life I swear.
Rebecca says, "Actually I wanted to talk about that. I realized part of the college experience is having a roommate, someone you can bond with and share things with. So I was wondering if Riley could move in the house with me."
We are all in complete shock. She did not run this by me first I don't know what to say. She is a really good friend. Frannie says, "Well Rebecca that is just so sweet. Yes, of course Riley can move into the house with you." This is awesome! I can move in with my friend and get away from Jen!
I say, "I had no idea this was going to happen, but thank you so much Frannie! I can't wait to have a roommate I actually want to be around!" She just nods and laughs.
Casey leads us upstairs to show us our new room. While we are heading upstairs I send the same text to Rusty, Uncle Josh, and Cappie. It reads: [Rebecca asked for me to move in to the ZBZ house with her and Frannie said yes! I am moving into the ZBZ house!]
Cappie text back first he says [That's amazing Sunshine! Come over after you finish at the ZBZ house and tell me all about it!]
I text him back and say [I'll head that way as soon as I am done Cap!]
Uncle Josh text me [Congratulations Riles! I talked to Cappie he said you were coming over after you leave the ZBZ see you than!]
I text him [See you than!]
Rusty says [That is so cool Riley! Currently being hazed text you more tomorrow!]
I don't text Rusty back to keep from getting him in trouble. Though I doubt Cappie would actually get on to him especially if he knows he's texting me, but I don't want the other pledges thinking Rusty gets special treatment.
Casey takes us to a room it seems to be a normal size for a double room. Two beds with a good distance between them. For me it seems like a perfect room it is a little bigger than the dorm I am already living in. Rebecca however doesn't seem to care for it much.
Casey says, "So, here it is. You know I wanted to talk to you about something." Casey do not do this, it will not end well for anyone. Least of all for you.
Rebecca says, "It's much smaller than I imagined." She's used to extravagant things so I imagine for her this is not very nice. I love it; hopefully she'll learn to love it too eventually.
Casey says, "It's the only room we have left. You know we normally can't allow freshman to live in the house." Casey is playing a dangerous game and I really wish she would stop. I like Rebecca a lot, but she is not a person to mess with. As unfair as it is Rebecca Logan is untouchable and any move made against her won't end well for whoever did it.
Rebecca says, "I know I'm like a campus celebrity, which is so weird just because my dad's a senator, rich, and famous, and whatever, but please no special treatment." Oh Rebecca. Gotta love that girl.
Casey sarcastically says, "Except your own room in the house." Casey needs to back down like right now before she goes way too far. Doing this at all is terrible doing it in front of Rebecca's friend is beyond awful this is between the two of them. She should treat it that way.
Rebecca says, "And maybe my own TiVo? Check out that room. It's huge." Oh Rebecca, I would say I am surprised, but I really am not surprised at all. She is who she is. I follow them to the other room.
Casey says, "Yeah, um, this is my room." Of course it is. This is getting more and more awkward. Is it rude to leave now? Maybe I should ask Cappie? Nah he would tell me the wrong thing to do. Casey goes on, "Speaking of things that are mine," please no. Not here not now I want to run away for real.
Casey says, "I found out you sorta had sex with Evan Chambers." And this whole night just got weirder than I thought possible.
Rebecca says, "I did! Rush night. It was amazing!" Yeah I am definitely going to go this is to weird.
Casey says, "Ok, please stop talking. Here's the thing. Evan Chambers is my boyfriend." Well that is my cue.
Before Rebecca can respond I say, "I'll see you guys tomorrow. I have to meet Cappie and Uncle Josh." I do not wait for a response I rush out the door and back downstairs.
I stop in the main room and tell Ashleigh, "I think Casey is about to murder Rebecca you may want to wander upstairs soon." She nods and hurries over to the stairs.
As I make my way to the door Frannie stops me and asks, "Where are you off to Riley?" I don't want to lie because that is not a good start to joining a sorority.
I say, "I'm going to meet Cappie and my Uncle Josh at the KT house." She frowns slightly and then looks kind of thoughtful.
She says, "I let Casey make her own choices when it came to Cappie and the KT's I'll let you make yours too, just be careful. I do not want another sister getting hurt because of him and them."
I smile and say, "Thank you Frannie and I like them so far if they do anything to make me change my mind I'll let you know." She nods and I head out the door to meet the KT's. I am so excited!
I walk over to the KT house just glad to be away from the drama at the ZBZ house. When I get there I walk in without knocking. As I enter I see all the guys just chilling and when they notice me they yell, "Sunshine!" That nickname has really stuck. Good thing I actually like it, or I would be upset.
Cappie walks up to me instantly and pulls me into a hug. I hug him back and it is the most amazing feeling. He brings this sense of calm to me and it is the best feeling in the world. He says, "Come laugh at the pledges with us Sunshine."
I shake my head and say, "Cappie I am a pledge I'd feel kind of bad laughing at other pledges. I don't want anyone to laugh at me."
He says, "I promise Sunshine if anyone laughs at you I will kick their ass." I smile at him knowing he would if someone upset me. Cappie is the best.
I say, "I appreciate that Cappie. You are the best!"
He smiles and says, "Anything for my Sunshine!" Cue swoon!
Cappie than explains to me what they have the pledges doing and I just shake my head. I ask, "Isn't that the opening of 300?"
He huffs and says, "We did it first!" I raise my hands in a surrender fashion and just laugh at him.
I smile and say, "I'm sure you did Cap." He just smiles down at me.
Uncle Josh chose that moment to come and hug me. He asks, "So how was your time at ZBZ?"
I shutter and say, "Oh my Gosh it was fun for like a minute than I had to bail."
Cappie asks, "Why did you have to bail."
I tell them, "Casey decided to confront Rebecca in front of me while she was showing us our room. It got really awkward so I told them I'd see them later and I didn't even wait for a response before I bailed back down stairs to say goodbye then come here. It was insanely weird and such bad timing. Casey is really judgey for someone who cheated on her boyfriend to get back at him."
Both boys nod and Cappie says, "She should not have done that like that or in front of you. She is not squeaky clean in all of this. Good call on bailing this way they can't pull you in the middle of all the drama."
I nod and say, "That is why I hurried out of there. So how are the pledges doing?"
Uncle Josh says, "They are doing well. I don't think Rusty is making himself any friends back there. The boy is awkward."
I roll my eyes and say, "Uncle Josh you are supposed to be helping him."
Josh puts his hands up and says, "I am trying the kid is a work in progress."
Before I can respond I let out a yawn. Cappie says, "It's late. Let me walk you back to your dorm Sunshine."
I nod and say, "Do you think me going to say bye to Rusty will help make those guys be nice to him?"
They look at each other and Uncle Josh says, "It can't hurt him any I say go for it."
I nod and head out to the backyard. I walk over to Rusty and say, "Good luck Rus I'm heading out. Have a good night." I kiss his cheek going a little extra to help him out.
As I walk back in the house I hear someone say, "She is hot! How do I get her?" I just roll my eyes and shrug off the comment.
I didn't notice Cappie until he says, "You don't pledge and if you even look at her for too long you will have hell to pay." I slap Cappie lightly on the chest to get him to stop glaring at the poor pledge.
I grab Cappie's arm and drag him out of the KT house. Once we were outside I say, "What was that about Cap?"
He shrugs and says, "He shouldn't have said that about you." I smile at him he is jealous and I admit it is a little cute. We walk back to my dorm just talking about everything and anything. I can literally talk to Cappie about anything and I love that. There are no secrets between us it is pretty cool.
Once we get to my dorm I get up on my tippy toes and kiss his cheek then I say, "Thank you for walking me back Cappie. I'll see you tomorrow."
He puts his hand on my face and smiles down at me as he says, "Can't wait Sunshine." He leans down to kiss my forehead than wanders back down the hall. That man is going to be the death of me I swear.
I head into my room and begin getting ready for bed. I cannot wait to move into the ZBZ house with Rebecca. As I get into bed for the night all I can think about is how excited I am for tomorrow.
I wake up the next day when my alarm goes off. I don't have any classes today mine start tomorrow thank God. But I do have to meet the ZBZ's to do the pledge scavenger hunt today. I am so excited for that.
I decide to dress casually because I do not know what I will be doing today. I put on a pair of black ripped skinny jeans, a light blue lacy tank top, matching light blue converse, black heart earring, and a black heart necklace. I throw my curled hair up into a high ponytail. I put on black eyeliner, black mascara, and clear lip gloss. I grab my black purse and put everything I might need in it.
I still have some time before I have to met the girls so I decide side to go to lunch before I meet them. I check my messages to see I have some from Cappie. They are pictures of what Rusty looks like this morning. I cannot believe that idiot fell asleep rookie mistake Rusty. I doubt he had time to change before he went to class. His professors must think he's a weirdo.
I make my way to the quad to eat lunch and relax. It is nice to just be alone for a minute I love all the people I have met here, but it feels like I haven't had a second alone since I got here. After my relaxing lunch I head over to meet the other pledges.
When I get there I see Casey so I walk over to her. I ask, "Did you see your brother this morning?" The way she laughs tells me she probably did.
She says, "Yeah I did. I warned him about fraternities. How did you see him? Did someone stay at the frat house last night?" I blush at the insinuation.
I say, "No Cappie sent me pictures of him this morning. It was hilarious."
She nods and says, "It definitely was. I'm pretty sure he had to go to class like that. He'll learn not to fall asleep next time I guess." I nod my agreement than make my way over to Rebecca.
Casey gets all of our attention and says, "You have twenty things on or around campus that you have to find and take pictures of with your handy dandy ZBZ cams. It might be something like a picture of the football stadium."
Ashleigh then says, "Or a picture of you making out with a football player." I definitely saw that coming nothing about this was ever going to be normal. I'm up for the challenge!
Jen says, "Football players? I love football players! I want to date a football player one day." She is literally so annoying no one is that ditzy or dumb.
Casey says, "Ok, you have until 7pm to complete the list and haul ass back to Dobblers. If you don't make it by then you will not continue in the running to make America's next top Zeta Beta. Questions?"
Rebecca's hand shots up, but Casey ignores her. Casey says, "No? Ok, Go!" That cannot end well.
Casey stops by me and says, "I wanted to give you a push in the right direction so I added something special to your list. You are welcome." I am now very nervous to look at my list having no idea what she means.
My list:
Take pictures of:
The football stadium
Yourself with a statue
Coffee iced or hot
Family photo
People playing pool
A classroom
Any animal
You with a group of guys
Magazine of your choosing
Snickers candy bar
One of your textbooks
The baseball field
The basketball court
The library
A frat house
Something with CRU on it
A picture with another female pledge
A picture with a male pledge
Your dorm room
You making out with a frat guy
My jaw dropped. This was not helping me with Cappie. This would make things rushed and forced! Why did I want to join a sorority again? After Rebecca finishes talking to Casey I grab her for a quick picture.
I pull out my phone and call Cappie. He answers on the second ring. He says, "How's it going sunshine?"
I sigh and say, "I need some help with my scavenger hunt list can you be at the KT house with some of the guys and Rusty in like an hour?"
He says, "Sure sunshine I'll make it happen!" He is literally the best! He's going to help me without even knowing everything I need.
I say, "Thank you so much Cappie! I'll see you than!"
He chuckles and says, "I'll see you than Riley."
After we get off the phone I rush to get pictures of the fourteen things I can get pictures of without him. It took less time than I thought to get pictures of all of what I needed and it was actually kind of fun. Now it is time for the part I have been dreading. It is time to head to the KT house. I am so not ready for this.
When I get to the KT house I walk straight in like I always do. Cappie comes to greet me as soon as I walk in. He says, "Alright we are here. How can we be of service." I swallow nervously and silently hand him the list. He reads over it and chuckles.
He says, "Who do you want to help you out with the last task on this list?" Of course he is going to make me ask, as if I'm not nervous enough.
I decide to mess with him a bit. I say, "I don't know do you think Beaver will agree too?" He straight up glares at me. Not funny I guess.
He says, "Not if he wants to live. How about I make you a deal I'll help you with the last thing on the list and you go on a date with me?" I really want to squeal at the top of my lungs. Maybe Casey did help me in a warped way.
I smile up at him and say, "You got yourself a deal Cappie." He looks surprised and I don't know why. I always flirt back with him.
He says, "You'll seriously go out with me?" I nod and he picks me up in a hug then spins me around. I giggle at his outburst of emotion. I love seeing him so happy and carefree. He makes me feel that way too. Once he sets me down he says, "Ok we'll take care the ones we need people for down here and the last one we'll do in my room." I nod and we gather the KT's in the house up.
Rusty takes a picture of me with the guys, then Cappie takes a picture of me with Rusty, next I take a picture of Beaver and Wade playing pool, and finally I stepped outside and took a picture of the KT house.
Once those pictures were taken Cappie led me up to his room to take the last picture I needed. I have kissed boys before, but I know kissing Cappie is going to be different and I am very nervous about it. Once we step into Cappie's room he takes the Camera from me and starts messing with it.
Once he's done he says, "There I set the timer, now I'm going to set it on my dresser and we will kiss. Once we see the flash it is ok to pull back, but I'll understand if you don't I am an excellent kisser." All my nerves fly away as Cappie says this, I really like this guy and first kisses are always awkward at least we'll have a cool story with ours.
When he gets the camera set up and the button pushed he comes back over to me. He doesn't even give me a second for my nerves to come back; he just instantly crashes his lips to mine. I immediately melt into the kiss.
He was not lying he is an excellent kisser and I feel the sparks fly as we kiss. Vaguely I see the flash from the camera, but I don't pull back once the flash is gone. I am enjoying this kiss way too much to pull back now.
Eventually the need for air becomes too much to ignore and me pull apart. I say, "Wow if I hadn't already agreed to go out with you I definitely would now."
He smirks and says, "It really was an amazing kiss sunshine. We should celebrate me finally getting the guts to ask you out!"
I giggle and tell him, "I have to drop my camera off at dobblers to show I finished my list."
He nods and says, "Than to dobblers we go!" I smile he really is the best. We make our way back downstairs and Cappie calls for everyone's attention. What in the world is he doing?
He says, "Guys I finally did it I asked Riley out. And she said yes!" Cappie yelled the word yes. That was met with cheers all around and I can't help but laugh at these guys. They are good guys and it is so ridiculous that no one takes them seriously.
Cappie goes on and says, "We are heading to dobblers to celebrate. I'll be back in time to haze the pledges." That was met with less enthusiasm, probably because they weren't invited to drink.
Uncle Josh comes over and man hugs Cappie then he turns to me and hugs me. He says, "I am happy for you. I don't think there is a better guy for you than my best friend Cappie. I'm glad you are giving him a chance. If he hurts you I'll kick his ass."
I laugh and say, "I know you will Uncle Josh and I really like him I was always going to give him a chance, he just needed to ask for one." We pull away and Cappie, Uncle Josh, and I head to dobblers.
We walk into dobblers and Cappie puts his arm around me then leads me over to Casey, Ashleigh, and weirdly Evan. Josh follows behind us to show support or to taunt Evan I don't know.
I hand Ashleigh my camera and say, "All done. Everything is there."
Casey smirks and says, "I see my little add on to your list had the desired effect." I roll my eyes of course she wants credit for Cappie and I.
I say, "Yes it worked Cappie asked me on a date, which is why they are here with me apparently we are celebrating."
Cappie says, "Well my darling sunshine you agreeing to go out with me is worth celebrating." I hear a squeal and turn to see Ashleigh looking through my pictures and I think I know which one she is squealing at. She shows it to Casey and she too squeals.
Casey says, "You two are so cute together."
Evan says, "I don't think we've had a chance to properly meet. Evan Chambers."
I nod politely and say, "Nice to meet you Riley Matthews."
He says, "Is this your sister Josh?"
Josh glares at him and says, "No she's my niece. Problem with that?"
Evan holds up his hands in a surrender fashion and goes to say something, but I cut him off. I say, "Well this has been fun. I'll see you two later. Come guys let's get you two some drinks."
After we leave the table things over there seem to get awkward. Casey wanders over to the bar while we are still standing there. Uncle Josh says, "Case! I didn't see you down there."
Casey asks, "Heading out?" She knows we just got here. Why would she ask that?
Uncle Josh says, "Just another night of debauchery with the pledges and Riley." Don't pull me into this. I want to be nowhere near this awkwardness.
Casey says, "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about that. Um, I don't know exactly what you guys do over there."
Cappie interrupts to say, "You've never heard about the goats?" Oh Cappie even I don't know if that is a joke.
Casey ignores him and goes on, "Just go easy on Rusty. He's new to all this and I want to make sure he isn't going to be scarred for life."
Uncle Josh says, "Did you really come here to talk to me about Rusty? Whom until last week didn't exist?" Uncle Josh why would you go into this kind of conversation in front of me? I want no part in this!
Casey says, "My relationship with Rusty has changed since last week." Well that's good I hope it continues to improve for both of their sakes. They need each other, family usually needs each other.
Uncle Josh says, "Seems like a lot of relationships changed last week." Awkward! Your niece is standing right next to you stop this conversation now! I look up at Cappie to see him looking at me sympathetically. He knows how awkward this must be for me I wish my Uncle would realize it too!
Casey was handed another drink and she says, "You don't have to buy me a drink." When did he tell them to get her a drink? We have been standing here this whole time. How did we miss that? Uncle Josh is a freaking wizard!
Uncle Josh says, "It's ok I didn't. I put it on your tab." I look up at Cappie and we both look super confused. Again when did he do that and how did we miss it?
Evan suddenly shows up and says, "Hey, hey, hey, hey. What's taking so long over here?"
He looks up at us as Uncle Josh says, "I was just not buying your girlfriend a drink." This is weird, I don't know if Evan knows Casey slept with my Uncle Josh, but it is very clear that for some reason he doesn't like my Uncle Josh or Cappie. I know why he probably doesn't like Rusty and why he doesn't like Cappie, but why does he not like Uncle Josh?
Evan gets a little pissy as he says, "Don't you have your own girlfriend to not buy drinks for?" Um he didn't buy her a drink. Why is he flipping out? Dude is unstable.
Cappie answers this time, "It's just not as fun I guess." I elbow him in the ribs he so does not need to help make this situation worse right now. I'd like to actually have a peaceful life or at least a semi peaceful life at ZBZ. I do not want Casey mad at me because my Uncle and my um Cappie pissed off her boyfriend.
We all stand there in complete silence. Evan, obviously jealous, throws his arm around Casey's shoulder and Cappie puts his arm around my waist. Uncle Josh is just leaning against the bar. The silence is deafening. I lean into Cappie and I know he can sense my discomfort. Cappie says, "This is ridiculous. Can we just be mature and just say what we're all thinking?"
He pauses then says, "How the hell could they cancel Gilmore Girls?"
I giggle and say, "I know right? I am totally team Logan!"
Uncle Josh says, "Unclench Evs, Casey and I were just talking about the pledges." Can we please not pick another topic Evan can bitch about?
Evan says, "Yeah, oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. We saw the work you guys did on Rusty. Let me ask you what exactly in the point of that form of hazing?"
Cappie says, "Uh, our own amusement." I again elbow him, he will never learn.
Evan says, "Oh, well, you're doing them a lot of good." It's a fraternity not the peace core, chill out dude.
Uncle Josh says, "We don't have to train our pledges. They already rock."
Evan says, "Are you implying that your pledges are better than our pledges?" Oh lord here we go, this is going to get extra and fast.
Cappie says, "You're right, I'm sorry. Let me clarify. Our pledges could kick your pledges asses any day." I just shake my head boys are ridiculous at any age I guess. Why does this really need to be a fight? Who's pledges are better? Seriously guys?
Evan says, "Hmm, is that a challenge." Of course that's how you would take it. I am really not a fan of Evan Chambers.
Casey says, "Guys, come on."
At the same time as I say, "Cappie, Uncle Josh."
Evan looks at me and says, "You know I can help you meet a nice Omega Chi. You are going to be in ZBZ you are better than these losers."
I glare at him and say, "I was going to say that Cappie and Uncle Josh didn't have anything to prove to you and don't need to waste their time on you, but now I see you're a jerk. So I withdraw my objection. Kick his ass Cappie."
Cappie says, "What kind of competition are we talking here? Who's got the most j-crew v-necks? Wait you might have us there. And Riley isn't your concern so don't worry about her or talk to her."
Uncle Josh adds, "Don't even look at my niece asshole!"
Evan says, "We can kick your ass at anything." I actually really want them to kick Evan's ass he totally deserves it.
Cappie says, "Really?"
Evan says, "Yeah we could."
Ashleigh comes over and grabs Casey and says, "Excuse us." That can't be good. Knowing those two it has to do with Rebecca. I told them not to mess with her.
Evan and Uncle Josh watch Casey and Ashleigh walk away. I hope whatever they did can be undone, Rebecca is really nice and they need to stop being so hard on her. Evan made a choice and Casey forgave him. Rebecca thought she was hooking up with a single guy this is not her fault.
Cappie says, "Let's go with a classic than." Evan looks at him expectantly and Cappie continues, "Beer Pong. Tomorrow night at the Kappa Tau house."
Evan says, "You're on. Our pledges versus yours. We're going to kick your ass than maybe Riley will see what a losers you two really are."
I roll my eyes and say, "The only loser I see here is you. They are going to beat you and I can't wait to see the look on your face when they do. Jerk."
Evan goes to say something else, but Cappie interrupts him, "We are done here. Leave Riley out of this. She has clearly shown she doesn't like you. Good bye Evan." Evan rolls his eyes and storms off.
Cappie grabs my hand and starts dragging me to the exit with Uncle Josh following. Cappie says, "We have to get to the house quickly and get the pledges ready! We cannot lose to that preppy jackass!"
They are practically running and I am in no shape for that I say, "You guys go I'll meet you there. I am not a runner."
I thought they would listen and continue on without me, but to my surprise Cappie lifted me up bridal style and continued running towards the KT house. Didn't see this coming. Not going to lie it is fun yet scary traveling this way.
We get to the KT house fairly quickly and Cappie sets me down once we get inside. He then rushes over to his brothers and the pledges and says, "Stop Everything!" I come up beside Cappie to see all the pledges in kimonos. I am not even going to ask, I don't think I want to know.
Cappie says, "Nice kimonos. Big news! Our pledges have been challenged by the nimrods over at Omega Chi."
Jay says, "We're going to destroy them! What's the game?" Of course they would think they are going to win before they even know what the game is.
Cappie tells them, "Something fair, something classic. An old family favorite. Beer pong. Here tomorrow night." The guys immediately start laughing thinking they have this in the bag. I decide not to point out just because they are pros at beer pong does not mean their pledges will be.
Rusty says, "Uh tomorrow night? What if we have school work to do?" Oh Rusty now is not the time or place to ask this question. Ask it in private or something.
Cappie says, "Spitter that's impossible. Did you not hear a word of what I just said? It's against the Omega Chi's. Besides, it's the first week of school it's always easy." I instantly roll my eyes; he is not factoring in Rusty's major.
Uncle Josh says, "First week is always the easiest." I again roll my eyes. They need to cut Rusty some slack. To get my point across I hit both of this arms. They both wince and look at me to see me glaring at them.
I hear one pledge say, "You can probably sit this one out Spitter. Maybe this isn't your kind of thing." Ouch. I nudge Cappie towards Rusty.
Cappie says, "Do what you gotta do Rusty." That was not helpful at all. I push Cappie back towards Uncle Josh and the other KT's. He takes the hint and goes to talk to them.
I make my way over to Rusty and say, "You are at a cross roads Rusty. If you miss this event I don't know if you will ever get your pledge brothers respect. However, if you go to this event it could hurt you when it comes to your classes. Normally, I would say school is the most important, and if it is to you than you know what you are going to do already. However, I just want to go on record saying you can always take the class again or at another time I don't know how many chances you'll get to make lifelong friends you share an unbreakable bond with."
I give him a second to let that sink in before I continue, "Cappie, Uncle Josh, and I will support you no matter what you do. I just wanted to go on record giving my opinion. You also have the option of trying to finish your school work before the big event and then maybe you won't have to choose."
He nods and says, "Thank you Riley. You have been a big help."
I shrug and say, "That's what I'm here for."
He heads over to his pledge brothers and I stand there watching everything around me. I care very much for these guys they are basically family to me. I really hope the beat the Omega Chi's because I know it will mean everything to them if they do so.
Uncle Josh comes over to me and asks, "What did you tell Rusty?"
I say, "I told him what he needed to hear. Now he has a choice to make and we'll just have to wait and see what he chooses."
He nods and says, "You are a good friend Riley. How are you doing by the way? I feel like I haven't really checked on you."
I smile at him and say, "I'm doing ok. Being here meeting all these incredible people who don't try to control or dictate my life has been really good for me. I miss my friends I do, but I need a chance to grow and I just don't know if they would have ever let me do that."
He nods and says, "I'm glad you like it here. I'm really glad to have you here and I love getting to spend all this time with you."
I smile and say, "I love spending all this time with you too."
He says, "And I think you and Cappie are just what the other needs. You are going to be good for each other and I am happy for you both."
I smile and say, "I'm glad you are ok with this. He is a really great guy and I look forward to seeing where things go."
Uncle Josh and I hug as we do we feel another person hugging us turning it into a group hug. We see the person is Cappie. He says, "I felt left out." I just giggle kind of used to his antics by now.
Uncle Josh pulls back and pushes me towards Cappie. Uncle Josh says, "Take her go watch a movie or something I'll deal with the pledges."
Cappie smiles and says, "Thanks man. Come on Sunshine."
We head upstairs to Cappie's room. Once we get in his room I take my shoes off and get comfortable on his bed while he gets a movie set up.
Once the movie is set up he comes and lays next to me and says, "Today has been an amazing day I'm glad I get to end it spending time with you."
I smile and say, "I'm glad I get to end it with you too Cap."
We lay there peacefully watching the movie cuddled together. It was nice and very relaxing. I guess a little to relaxing because somewhere along the way we drifted off to sleep.
The next morning I am again woken up by my phone going off. I hear Cappie groan as I check to see who it is. It's Rebecca. I texted her last night asking how her scavenger hunt went because I was worried Casey and Ashleigh did something. She never texted back so I guess they did.
I get out of Cappie's bed and step into the hallway. I say, "Hello?"
Rebecca says, "I need you to come with me to the ZBZ house like now. Casey got me arrested yesterday and I am about to show her I am not someone you mess with."
I sigh and say, "As much as I don't want to be in the middle of this I do think you guys need a mediator, so let me run back to my dorm and change then I will go with you."
She says, "Did someone fall asleep with Cappie at the KT house again?"
I roll my eyes and say, "Yes I did. He also asked me on a date yesterday and I said yes. This is all stuff we can talk about later. I'll meet you at the ZBZ house in 30 minutes."
She says, "I can't wait not only to get back at Casey, but also to hear about you and Cappie!"
I say, "See you soon Becca."
She laughs and says, "See you soon Riles."
Once I'm off the phone with Rebecca I go back into Cappie's room. I sit next to him on his bed and gently wake him. He grumbles and grabs me to make me lay down beside him. I giggle and say, "Cappie I have to go I was only waking you to tell you that."
He says, "No you can't go!"
I say, "I have to go. I need to change than I am meeting Rebecca at the ZBZ house and after that I have classes."
He sighs and says, "I guess I have to let you go then. The fee for me releasing you is one kiss."
I roll my eyes, but lean down and kiss him anyway. I meant for the kiss to be a quick peck, but Cappie turned it into a full blown make out session. We pulled away when we needed to breathe. I give him a quick kiss than hop out of bed.
I say, "Ok as much as I enjoy spending time with you, I have to go."
He says, "But I don't want you to go!"
I smile and say, "I will see you later on Cappie I promise." As we have been having this conversation I managed to put my shoes on and get my stuff together.
He says, "Fine, but one of this days it would be nice if our sleepovers were planned so you can have clothes here then you can stay longer."
I smile at him and say, "We'll work on that. Now I have to go." I kiss him one more time than hurry out of his room and out of the KT house. I manage to say a quick bye to all the guys as I rush out.
I get to my dorm room in record time. I change into a grey lacey tank top, with a black skirt, and black wedges. I quickly take my hair out of the ponytail it was in and touch up my curls. I grab my purse and my backpack and rush over to the ZBZ house.
Rush is a strong word more like I walked them slightly faster than normal. I got there right in time to meet Rebecca. When she sees me she pulls me into a quick hug and says, "Watch and learn."
This cannot end well. I feel bad for Casey I really do, but she brought this onto herself. I check my phone to see Rusty texted me. Apparently he went to Casey for advice and she basically told him he couldn't do his school program and be in a frat. She really needs to show more support to her brother.
Rebecca and I walk into the room to hear Casey talking bad about Rebecca. Rebecca interrupts, "Excuse me. May I have a moment of your time?"
Frannie says, "Um, girls this is a closed meeting. Officers only."
Rebecca says, "This will just take a second."
I say, "I'm just here for moral support."
Frannie sighs and says, "Ok."
Rebecca says, "I made a huge mistake. I went way overboard with the scavenger hunt. I was just trying to make you proud, Frannie." When I saw the text from Rusty I also read the ones from Rebecca about her list. Casey and Ashleigh are diabolical. Rebecca is good even I believe her right now.
She knew all the right buttons to push with Frannie. Frannie smiles and says, "Make me proud? Oh! You don't have to prove anything to me. Or anyone here. We all love you." Not true, but I almost believe her too.
Casey says, "We still have to answer to the Panhellanic and the university." Casey even I know Rebecca wouldn't be standing here if that was still a problem.
Rebecca says, "It's taken care of."
Frannie asks, "Taken care of?"
Rebecca says, "My father became involved. He spoke with the provost and a rep at pallhellanic and suggested that it would be in everyone's best interest if this all just went away, so it has. I won't allow my poor judgment to affect my sisters." To be a little extra she squeezes Casey's shoulder. The girl is good.
Frannie gushes, "Oh, you are amazing!" I have a feeling Rebecca isn't going to stop here. I don't think this is the revenge on Casey she wanted to get.
Rebecca says, "And for all the trouble I have caused you all my father has offered us his private jet to use anytime we want it." Yeah Casey just lost big time. Frannie is not going to pick her over a private jet. I like her, but Frannie is just a tad bit shallow.
She prove me right by saying, "Oh, my God! We got a jet! We got a jet!" Frannie and Rebecca walk out of the room arm and arm talking about the jet. Well that was easy.
I look at Casey and say, "I like you I really do, but what you did with the list was wrong. I know you don't like Rebecca and I understand why, but you just gave her something to hold over you. I haven't known her very long, but I do know she is not someone you want to be on the bad side of and you have slighted her twice now. I would be careful; you just saw firsthand what she is capable of."
I pause for a second wondering if I should continue. I decide to add, "And I would appreciate it if you showed Rusty just a little support. Being in a fraternity is really important to him and it would be nice if his big sister would support him on that."
She sighs and says, "I know you are right I'm not handling this Rebecca or Rusty thing the right way at all. This was just a lot of change all at once. I gave up my first love for Evan thinking this would be an even greater love. And then Rebecca happened. And Rusty and I have never been very close and I'm not sure how to approach that.
I nod and say, "At the end of the day Rebecca didn't know Evan had a girlfriend, but Evan did know. Cut her some slack. As for Rusty he's trying, you should try too. I have to get to class I hope our talk helped."
She says, "It definitely gave me some things to think about. See you later Riley."
I wave to her than make my way to my first class of the day. Classes honestly went by in a flash and my phone started ringing the second I stepped out of my last class of the day, I didn't check to see who it was before I answered.
I say, "Hello?"
The caller says, "Hey sunshine! How were your classes?"
I smile and say, "Cappie did you memorize my schedule so you could call me the second my last class ended? And classes went well."
Cappie says, "I may have memorized your schedule. And I'm glad classes went well. So are you heading straight here?"
I roll my eyes and say, "Cappie I have to go drop my backpack off at my dorm room and double checked everything is packed up so the movers Rebecca hired can move my stuff."
He says, "Well you should grab some clothes and stuff then we can have a planned sleepover tonight."
I smile and say, "Ok Cappie I will grab some clothes and stuff. I'll see you soon."
He says, "I'll see you soon Sunshine! Hurry up though!" I just laugh as I hang up the phone he is so sweet.
I hurry over to my dorm room and double check that everything is packed and that my RA knows to let the movers into my room. I pack up some stuff for my sleepover at Cappie's then head over to the KT house.
When I get there I can tell everyone is hyped up for the match against the Omega Chi's tonight. I'm not going to lie, I'm not a hundred percent sure what beer pong is, but I guess it'll be exciting to find out.
When Cappie sees me he walks over to me, gives me a quick kiss takes my bags and my hand then leads me upstairs. Once we get my stuff set down Cappie gives me a proper kiss.
Once he pulls back he says, "I missed you sunshine."
I smile and say, "I miss you too, Cap. Are your pledges ready for tonight?"
He smirks down at me and says, "They better be!"
I roll my eyes and say, "Just because you and the other KT's are good at something doesn't mean your pledges will be too. I don't even know what beer pong it."
Cappie says, "You don't? Well let's sit down I'll explain the rules and the goal." We sit together on his bed and he tells me everything about beer pong. Well I'm glad when the game starts I'll know what's going on now.
Cappie and I hung out in his room for a while then we went downstairs to hang out with the rest of the guys and the pledges until the game starts. I love hanging out with the KT's they are so much fun to be around.
Time flew by and it is finally time for the game to begin. Wade gets the megaphone thing and says, "Gentlemen, and Omega Chi's and lady aka Sunshine!" Well it is nice to be included, but it is a little weird being the only girl here.
Wade goes on, "Welcome to the first annual Kappa Tau / Omega Chi Pledge Tourney. Alright, we got nine pledges on each side. The house with the highest number of wins, wins. Any questions?"
Rusty raises his hand, I really wish he would say and ask things in private. Rusty asks, "Um, how do you play?" I mean I didn't know until earlier, but this feels like a question that should have been asked as soon as the game was announced. They didn't practice for this at all? That's not good. I still believe they can win.
The Omega Chi's, being the assholes that they are, laugh at poor Rusty. Evan says, "You know we can drop one of our guys make it an even game."
I glare at him I really want to slap him. He's lucky Cappie interrupts and saves his life. Cappie says, "It's actually a great question, Spitter. Beer pong rules and regulations differ all over the world." I feel like this might be a long winded explanation.
Cappie continues, "Adhering to the North American Beer Pong Association regulations, two players square off on their respective sides, each taking a turn hitting a ping-pong ball across the table with the aim of making their ball land in one of several cups of beer." Why do I honestly believe that's a real thing and Cappie knows all the rules that it created.
Cappie finishes, "If he, or she, is successful, then that opponent must drink that cup of beer. The player who drinks all the cups loses. I personally subscribe to the notion that everyone wins in this game. So let's do it. Let the games begin."
The game begun I saw Rusty go over to his friend Calvin to talk. I hope their friendship survives house rivalry. They talk for a minute than Rusty comes back over to Cappie and me. Rusty says, "Calvin and I agreed we can still be in opposite houses and be friends. I hope that's still true after this we both are number 9."
I smile and say, "Rusty I am sure you guys will still be friends after this. This isn't about you guys, it's about your presidents holding a grudge against one another that has nothing to do with the two of you."
Rusty nods and says, "Your right." We go back to watching the game and after the last round ended the match is tied. It literally comes down to Rusty.
Cappie says, "Spitter, you're up."
Calvin walks over and says, "Hey. May the best man win?"
Rusty says, "Yeah. Best man win." He looks pretty nervous as he says it and I don't blame him. His pledge brothers will either love him or hate him after this.
Evan comes by and says, "Don't choke. Riley after they lose I would love to introduce you to some Omega Chi's. They are much more your class." Before Cappie or Uncle Josh could attack him I stopped them.
I turn to Evan and say, "You are literally the most disgusting person I have ever met and I want nothing to do with you or your fraternity. You have made the lives of Casey and Rebecca so much more difficult for no reason other than you wanted to sleep with someone who wasn't your girlfriend. Do not address me again to disrespect people, who in my opinion are better human beings than you ever will be."
He glares at me and pulls Calvin over to his side of the table. Uncle Josh says, "Way to tell him off, Riley. I am so proud of you!"
I smile and say, "I was getting sick of him. I have had enough people making life decisions for me. I wasn't about to let it happen again."
Cappie says, "I'm proud of you too, sunshine." He gives me a quick kiss than turns his focus to Rusty. Cappie says, "How you feeling? You good? Ok, I want you to relax, alright? You know, there are these moments in life when you are confronted with something that you think is monumental. But 10, 20 years down the road, you'll look back and you'll laugh." I have a feeling this pep talk is about to take a turn.
Rusty says, "Yeah."
Uncle Josh says, "This is not one of those moments. This is the most important thing that could ever happen to you or any of us in this entire world."
Cappie says, "Good luck! Don't lose." I roll my eyes. How did I know they would ruin the pep talk?
I slap both of them on the back of the head than turn to Rusty and say, "Just do your best Rusty that's all anyone can ask of you." He nods, but still looks nervous.
I glare at Cappie and Uncle Josh, "You two are no longer allowed to give pep talks. What the hell was that?"
Uncle Josh shrugs and says, "The truth." I shake my head at him.
Wade says, "All right, the scores tied. The winner of this game will determine which pledges rock and which pledges suck." We all watch on nervously. Only for Rusty to make his first shot with ease.
We cheer him on and Rusty says to Cappie, "This is like ping-pong. I was champion five years in a row in the eagle scouts."
Cappie says, "Wow! You were in the eagle scouts?" I again smack him on the back of the head. So it turns out Rusty is really, really, really good at beer pong. He won the super easily. Calvin and Rusty talk briefly.
I walk with Cappie and Uncle Josh over to Evan. Cappie offers Evan his hand. Cappie says, "Maybe I should have picked naked ice melting? Wait, is that supposed to be a secret Omega Chi' thing?" Um what?
Evan storms off and Rusty is lifted up in celebration. We all cheer for him. Rusty says, "It's 2:00am. I gotta go. Let me down!" He runs off and everyone continues to cheer for him. I am extremely exhausted so I leave Cappie with everyone celebrating.
I go up to his room and take a quick shower. I'm glad he has his own bathroom. I quickly change into a marvel tank top and some black pajama shorts. I brush out my hair than head back into Cappie's room. I put on a movie than get comfortable in Cappie's bed.
I wasn't laying there long before Cappie entered the room. He says, "Weren't feeling the celebration, sunshine?"
I smile and say, "No, I was just tired. I knew you would come up when you were ready too."
He nods and says, "I came not long after I noticed you were gone. I'd rather celebrate with you. I really am proud of you for standing up to Evan. I know what your friends did hurt and I know they protected you for so long you are just now learning how to protect yourself. And tonight you did that you put him in his place all on your own."
I smile and say, "Thank you. I don't want to be in a place where I depend on people to stand up for me again. I can stand up for myself and I did that tonight. It was an amazing feeling."
Cappie says, "I'm glad sunshine. I'm also glad we are having a planned sleepover for once so I can enjoy spending time with you before we go to sleep and we can spend more time together in the morning."
I smile and say, "I'm glad too." He goes into his bathroom and showers. He comes back in only pajama pants. Cappie is seriously hot. We cuddle up together and watch the movie I put on until we manage to fall asleep. This time on purpose.
The next morning I wake up before Cappie and check my phone. Rebecca texted me that the movers have my stuff and we are waiting for Casey and Ashleigh to move their stuff to the small room so we can have theirs. Poor Casey and Ashleigh.
Eventually Cappie wakes up and I tell him about the room development. He says, "Casey brought that on herself maybe this will teach her a lesson, but I doubt it. Let's go get some breakfast sunshine."
I grab my clothes and go into the bathroom to change. I put on X-men tank top, black shorts, and my red converse. Once we are both ready we head downstairs. Someone brought doughnuts so we grab some and talk about how awesome last night was.
It's been a chill day so far I am currently watching Cappie try to change a light bulb. He is struggling. Rusty comes in and says, "Hey, Cap. I need to talk to you."
Cappie says, "Sure what is it buddy? Can you do me a favor and crouch down on all fours?" A chair or a ladder would have been easier, but Cappie is an opportunist.
Rusty says, "Uh, Ok."
Cappie says, "Thank you." Lord help me with these two.
Cappie steps on Rusty's back and starts messing with the light bulb. Rusty says, "I have to quit the fraternity."
Cappie says, "Relax, I'm almost done." I don't think this is why he has to quit. His sister finally got to him.
Rusty says, "No, I mean I really have to quit, Cappie. I can't manage Kappa Tau and engineering. I was supposed to turn in this Physics problem set, but I didn't because of last night. Now I missed the deadline this morning. I messed up my roommate because we were working together. He's mad at me, and he won't talk to me."
Cappie says, "Rusty, school comes first." I'm waiting for whatever he's going to add to these to ruin the responsible statement he just made.
Rusty says, "I know, so I can have a successful professional future." I don't think that's why Cappie said that.
Cappie says, "No. So, you don't get kicked out, and you can stay here forever. You know you could've skipped beer pong last night, right?" I walk over and nudge Cappie, because he definitely didn't make it seem like he could.
I know people think Cappie is immature, but with his parents being the way they are this is the only home he's ever known and when he is ready to move to a more permanent home he will do so. I truly believe that and I believe in him.
Rusty says, "But I wanted to make my pledge brother like me."
Cappie says, "Relax, you belong here." Rusty says, "Thanks. But it's too late."
Cappie says, "It's never too late. You didn't ask any of us for help. Now go finish that test. You're not the first Kappa Tau who's missed a deadline." Cappie guides Rusty out than turns to me. He asks, "How's your acting sunshine?"
I smile and say, "Flawless."
He nods and says, "Let's get the guys together and get a plan made up." He gathers up the guys and I text Rusty for the class and professor information. It takes us no time at all the get a plan put together. My part is simple I just have to get the professor to be in a certain spot so Beaver can tackle him.
Not long later we have started our plan. I see the professor and stop him. I say, "Excuse me sir, do you know where I can find the archer building?"
He sighs irritably and says, "Look young lady buy a map. I am very busy and." He did not get to finish his sentence because he was tackled by Beaver.
I hold back a laugh as the professor says, "Damned frat boys. You almost killed me. What are your names?"
Uncle Josh says, "We're very sorry, sir."
The professor says, "What fraternity are you with?"
Beaver says, "But sir we were just."
The professor interrupts and says, "Names!"
Cappie says, "We're the Omega Chi's. My name is Evan Chambers. And you're kinda being a pansy about all of this." Beaver and Uncle Josh shrug and nod in agreement. The angry professor grabs his box that the KT's picked up for him and storms off.
Rusty meets up with us as we hurry away. Cappie grabs him and says, "Don't look back. Don't look back." We go back to the KT house and celebrate another win. I get a text from Rebecca saying we are taking the smaller room and what Casey did.
I feel so bad for her Casey is terrible for doing that. Blackmailing her and making herself Rebecca's big sis is a bit much. This going to end bad. Rebecca told me to stay at the KT house another night that our stuff would be moved into the house in the morning.
I tell Cappie the good news and he was super excited about it. The rest of the day and the night flew by and the next morning I kissed Cappie and headed to the ZBZ house to check out my new room. I know Rebecca hates it, but I like it a lot. It's a nice room.
Rebecca comes in and tells me all about what Casey did and the video she has and I feel so bad for her. I know Casey is struggling, but this is going a little far. I hope these two eventually work all of this drama out. I spend the day with Rebecca and Ashleigh. I also texted Cappie all day long. We started planning out date.
When night rolled around I sat in the living room watching movies with my sisters. Ashleigh let me know she was going to be my big sis because she couldn't hold it in anymore. Rusty, Cappie, and Uncle Josh all texted me and told me how their big brother thing went. Apparently, Cappie is Rusty's big brother. I think that's nice.
As I get ready for bed I reflect on my time at college so far. I am enjoying being out in the real world dealing with real issues and problems without people trying to protect me from them. I do miss my friends, but I needed this. And if I am being real I needed people like Cappie, Rusty, Rebecca, Ashleigh, the KT's, and the ZBZ's. Even Casey and Frannie honestly.
Being at CRU is the best decision I've made so far. And I think Cappie is a close second honestly, I like him way more than I ever like Lucas. I hope CRU continues to teach me new things and introducing me to new people.
