Chapter One
…
As Garfield stepped foot onto the campus of his new college, a wave of emotions washed over him. Nervousness tingled in his stomach, making his heart race with anticipation. The unfamiliar surroundings and the sea of new faces left him feeling overwhelmed, unsure of what to expect. Yet, beneath the nerves and the overwhelm, an undeniable sense of excitement coursed through his veins, igniting a fire of anticipation that fueled his every step.
Garfield's anticipation grew, a beacon of hope burning brightly within him. He was ready to shed the labels of his past, to redefine himself, and to seize every opportunity that college offered. With each confident stride, he embraced the exciting adventure that lay ahead, ready to embrace the transformative journey of becoming the college man he had always aspired to be.
Every corner of the campus seemed to whisper promises of adventure and growth. The bustling energy surrounding him was infectious. Students hurriedly traversed the pathways, chattering excitedly about their dreams, ambitions, and the diverse array of subjects they were eager to delve into. Garfield's heart swelled as he realized he was now part of this vibrant community—a tapestry woven with dreams and aspirations.
Although a tinge of fear lingered within him, it was overshadowed by an overwhelming sense of possibility. The challenges he would face seemed like stepping stones towards personal growth, opportunities to expand his horizons, and transform into the person he aspired to be. The knowledge that he would forge lifelong friendships, encounter inspiring mentors, and engage in thought-provoking discussions filled him with an indescribable thrill.
As he entered the heart of the campus, Garfield caught a glimpse of the student center—a vibrant hub of activity, alive with laughter, music, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It symbolized the epicenter of connections and community. With each passing moment, his nervousness melted away, replaced by a growing excitement that filled every fiber of his being.
As Garfield took a deep breath, he felt the weight of expectations and the thrill of new beginnings. Nervous, overwhelmed, a little scared, but mostly excited—he stepped forward, ready to embrace the adventure that awaited him in the hallowed halls of his new college campus.
Garfield's memories of high school were marked by moments of isolation and a lingering feeling of not quite fitting in. The relentless teasing and bullying he endured had taken a toll on his self-esteem. The social landscape seemed like an impenetrable fortress, with cliques and social hierarchies that left him on the fringes, yearning for connection.
However, as Garfield stepped onto the threshold of college, he saw it as a chance to leave behind the shadows of the past and reinvent himself. The weight of those painful memories began to lift, replaced by a renewed sense of hope and the belief that he could finally carve out a place where he belonged.
In this new chapter of his life, Garfield's spirit felt unburdened, ready to embrace the opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery that college offered. He viewed it as a blank canvas where he could paint a new picture of himself, free from the constraints of his high school experience. The prospect of a fresh start energized him, propelling him forward with determination and resilience.
Garfield embraced this new beginning, he saw it as an opportunity to develop his social skills and gain confidence in his interactions with others, including the opposite sex. He aspired to shed the insecurities that had plagued him in high school and approach relationships with newfound poise and self-assurance. College, with its vibrant social scene and a wide range of extracurricular activities, seemed like the perfect arena for him to hone his social prowess and forge romantic connections based on genuine connection and mutual interest.
Garfield understood that the road ahead wouldn't be without challenges. He knew that navigating the complexities of college life would require resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to step out of his comfort zone. However, armed with the lessons learned from his high school experience, he felt a renewed determination to overcome any obstacles that came his way.
As he strolled through the grounds, Garfield was immediately struck by the palpable shift in energy compared to his high school days. The air seemed charged with possibility and liberation, an electrifying atmosphere that hinted at the transformative journey that awaited him.
Reflecting on his high school experience, Garfield couldn't help but see it as a time marked by conformity and societal pressures. The halls of his former school had felt like a confining penitentiary, where students were expected to adhere to rigid social norms and fit into predetermined molds. It often seemed like a microcosm of a larger world, where misunderstood teenagers sought refuge in acts of rebellion or tried to blend in, feeling suffocated by the weight of expectations.
In contrast, the college campus appeared as a sanctuary of independence—a place where young adults could finally break free from the constraints that had defined their teenage years. It represented a fertile ground for self-discovery and self-expression, where individuals were encouraged to embrace their unique identities and explore their passions without judgment or fear of reprisal.
Garfield observed the diverse array of students navigating the campus with a sense of purpose and self-assuredness that he hadn't witnessed in high school. It was evident that college offered a space for personal growth and intellectual exploration, where young minds were encouraged to question, challenge, and expand their horizons. Each person he encountered seemed to radiate a distinct aura of authenticity, unapologetically embracing their individuality.
The college environment fostered an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and open-mindedness, where students were free to pursue their academic interests and engage in thought-provoking discussions. It was a place where passionate debates flourished, ideas intersected, and knowledge was actively sought after rather than passively consumed.
As he immersed himself in this new environment, Garfield felt a renewed sense of hope and liberation. College was a place where the young and the curious gathered, ready to forge their own paths and create their own destinies. With a profound sense of gratitude, Garfield embraced the independence that college offered, knowing that this transformative experience would help him find himself, unleash his potential, and set him on a journey of self-fulfillment that high school could never have provided.
Garfield's excitement radiated as he made his way towards his college dorm, his backpack filled to the brim with clothes and his hands carefully clutching a big box containing his most treasured belongings.
Navigating through the maze-like layout of the dormitory buildings proved to be a bit of a challenge for Garfield. Directions had never been his strong suit. However, undeterred by his occasional detours and wrong turns, he persisted, fueled by the anticipation of finally reaching his destination.
Finally, after a bit of searching and with a triumphant smile, Garfield arrived at his assigned dorm room. Taking a deep breath, he turned the doorknob and stepped inside, eager to see what his new living space held in store for him.
As Garfield entered the room, his eyes widened in surprise and curiosity. It was clear that his new roommate had wasted no time in personalizing their shared space. The right side of the room was a veritable shrine to sports, adorned with a display of memorabilia. Posters of legendary athletes adorned the walls, showcasing their triumphant moments frozen in time. Trophies and medals glistened proudly on a shelf, evidence of accomplishments earned through dedication and skill.
Garfield's nervousness intensified as he contemplated the reality of having a jock as a roommate. Memories of the relentless bullying he had endured at the hands of athletes in high school filled his mind, and he couldn't help but envision a future filled with torment—24-hour swirlies and midnight wedgies.
Suddenly, a voice broke through his thoughts, causing Garfield to jump in surprise. "Hey, Roomie."
"Dude!" Garfield shrieked, quickly turning to face the person he assumed to be his new roommate.
Standing before him was a tall, muscular figure with darker skin, clad in a gray hoodie proudly displaying the school's logo. Garfield couldn't help but feel a pang of unease as he assessed the physical presence of the person standing before him.
A chuckle escaped the tall man's lips as he observed Garfield's startled reaction. "A little jumpy, are we?" He playfully remarked. "Here, let me help you with that." He said, taking the initiative to relieve Garfield of the heavy box he was carrying, leaving him surprised by the unexpected act of kindness.
"Um... thanks," Garfield responded warily, still caught off guard by the genuine display of goodwill.
The man placed the box down and turned back to face Garfield, extending his hand for a handshake. "The name's Victor, but you can call me Vic," he introduced himself with a friendly smile.
"Garfield, but you can call me Gar." He said, reciprocating the gesture, shaking Victor's hand, only to wince at the firm grip.
Victor chuckled once more, seemingly amused by Garfield's reaction. "Man, we gotta bulk you up. Get some meat on your bones." He remarked, displaying a genuine interest in helping Garfield improve physically.
While Garfield entertained the thought of being as strong and formidable as Victor, he couldn't help but acknowledge the reality of the situation. "Dude, that was my controller hand." Garfield complained, cradling his slightly injured hand.
Victor's curiosity was piqued by Garfield's remark. "Really? What do you play?" He asked, genuinely intrigued.
A mischievous snicker escaped Garfield's lips. "What don't I play?" He confidently responded, walking over to his large box and proudly revealing a treasure trove of gaming consoles—PS5, Xbox One, Gameboy, Switch—and an array of games. It was a collection that brought him solace, a refuge from the pain of losing his parents.
Victor's eyes lit up with excitement at the sight. "Man, this is awesome!" He exclaimed, unable to contain his enthusiasm. "Finally, someone to challenge me." He laughed, slapping Garfield on the back in a friendly manner.
Garfield winced at the forceful slap but couldn't help but smile back at Victor. The unexpected revelation of their shared interest in video games was a pleasant surprise. Victor's genuine enthusiasm and camaraderie made Garfield feel like he had struck gold in the roommate lottery.
Eager to indulge in their shared passion, Victor wasted no time in urging Garfield to set up the gaming systems. Digging into the box, he retrieved the PS5, his excitement palpable. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's set it up!" He declared, beckoning Garfield to join in the excitement.
"You don't have to tell me twice." Garfield responded eagerly, grabbing the controllers.
Despite their stark differences, with Victor reigning at the top of the social hierarchy as a popular, athletic student excelling in academics, and Garfield residing at the bottom, struggling academically and enduring frequent bullying, their shared love for video games bonded them as roommates and friends.
...
Garfield's first day of classes had been accompanied by a series of unfortunate incidents. He seemed to radiate a "freshman" aura, instantly becoming a target for bullies. Along his path to class, he was pushed into walls, and inside the classroom, spitballs were aimed at his head. The torment continued in the dining hall, where people cut in front of him in line and someone even pushed him into a trashcan, provoking laughter from other students.
College bullies proved to be a step above their high school counterparts. While high school bullies were confined by the boundaries of the school grounds and the watchful eyes of teachers, college presented no such limits. The harassment and intimidation could occur anywhere and at any time, leaving Garfield on edge.
After a long and disheartening day, Garfield yearned to seek refuge in his dorm room, hoping to escape the torment. However, his plans came to an abrupt halt as he encountered a couple of imposing frat boys on his way out of the lecture hall. Bored and looking for an outlet to express their superiority, the two tall men, with their tight shirts and meticulously styled hair, arrogantly blocked Garfield's path.
"Oh, crap." Garfield muttered under his breath, his exhaustion quickly transforming into panic.
"What do we have here?" The first boy sneered.
"Looks like a freshman." The second boy chimed in.
"And you know what we like to do with freshmen?" The first boy teased.
"Look, guys, I don't want any trouble." Garfield said nervously, raising his hands in a feeble attempt to defuse the situation, inching backward slowly.
"We like to shove their heads into toilets." The second boy declared.
"Isn't that kind of juvenile?" Garfield questioned, his voice betraying his unease.
"Juvenile is such a harsh word." The first boy smirked.
"We prefer traditional." The second boy added, a sinister tone lacing his words. "It is tradition that we shove freshmen into toilets."
"And I'm saying we should break the cycle." Garfield tried to reason, hoping to appeal to their better judgment. "Be better than the ones before you." He continued, feeling the solid surface of a wall against his back as he turned around.
Much to his dismay, Garfield discovered that the duo of frat boys had become a trio, his escape route seemingly cut off. "Trust me, fresh meat, we are way better than the ones before us." The third boy snarled, an evil grin spreading across his face as he ominously cracked his knuckles.
Garfield nodded in feigned acceptance, leading the trio to believe he had succumbed to his fate. However, in a split second, he darted forward, slipping between the two boys in front of him, and sprinted out of the lecture hall.
"GET HIM!" He heard one of them shout, his heart pounding as he raced across the campus, his feet propelled by pure instinct. He had become adept at evading bullies, often wondering if he should try out for track with the number of times he had to flee. Across the parking lot he sprinted, the sound of pursuing footsteps urging him to keep going. His eyes were locked on his dorm building, desperately hoping he could reach his room in time to lock the door behind him.
Barging through the entrance, Garfield dashed up the stairs, the rustle of feet growing closer behind him. He reached his room and fumbled with his key, the tension in his muscles mounting as he struggled to unlock the door. However, before he could shut it, the trio caught up, and with a forceful shove, they burst into the room.
The boys barged into the room, their expressions full of misplaced confidence, only to be met by Victor's imposing presence. Standing tall with his arms crossed, he exuded an air of authority as he glared disapprovingly down at them. Garfield, still trying to catch his breath from the adrenaline-fueled escape, watched in awe from his bed as the trio meekly stumbled backward, their bravado quickly fading.
"Oh, hey, Stone." The first boy stammered, attempting to regain composure.
"Stone, we didn't know this was your room." The second boy added, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness.
"We were just going after that freshman." The third boy chimed in, glancing past Victor and into the room where Garfield sat, wide-eyed and startled.
"Emmhhmm. Well, that freshman is my roommate." Victor asserted sternly, his voice laced with authority. "So, I'm going to have to ask you to leave him alone."
"Stone-"
"He's off limits, you hear me?!" Victor's voice boomed, leaving no room for argument or negotiation.
With wide eyes and a mix of disbelief and resignation, Garfield watched as the trio of frat boys rolled their eyes and huffed in reluctant agreement before reluctantly retreating. Victor firmly shut the door behind them, effectively cutting off any lingering threat.
Turning back to his roommate, Victor's expression softened. "You let me know if they give you any more trouble, okay?" He offered, genuine concern evident in his voice.
Still in shock and overwhelmed by Victor's protective gesture, Garfield could only manage a nod of gratitude, feeling an immense sense of relief wash over him. Not only was having Victor as a roommate a twist of fate, but it was also a godsend.
Garfield couldn't have asked for a better roommate and friend. They spent nights staying up late, exchanging jokes and engaging in intense rounds of video games. During the day, Victor continuously stood up for his freshman friend, acting as a shield against the bullies. It was as if Garfield had his own personal bodyguard, someone he could rely on in the challenging college environment.
Victor Stone was undeniably a king on campus. Towering in height, handsome, and intelligent, he commanded attention wherever he went. Despite coming from a family with wealth, Victor had earned a full football scholarship, showcasing his talent and dedication. And his popularity earned him a wide circle of friends and invitations to exclusive parties.
Garfield reclined on his bed, playing his Nintendo Switch, but he couldn't help but eavesdrop on the conversation his roommate was having at the door. A pretty girl with pink hair twirled a strand around her finger, clearly flirting with Victor. "It's sort of an end-of-the-first-week bash. Anyway, I would love for you to come. It wouldn't be a party without Victor Stone." She cooed.
"I'll be there." Victor replied with a smile, his charm evident. As he closed the door, Victor turned to Garfield, who was still pretending not to have overheard the conversation. "You want to go to a party tonight?" he asked, extending an invitation.
"Um... I don't really think that invitation included me." Garfield hesitated, unsure of whether he belonged in such social gatherings.
"I'm making it include you." Victor asserted, his voice filled with determination.
"I don't know." Garfield responded hesitantly.
"Hey, man. Don't worry," Victor reassured, his tone warm and reassuring. "I will be right by your side the entire night. And I'll make sure you won't get roofied." He added playfully, trying to lighten the mood.
Garfield couldn't help but crack a smile at his roommate's attempt to ease his worries. After considering the offer for a moment, he realized that he wanted to experience everything college had to offer, and college parties were undoubtedly a part of that experience. With a nod of agreement, Garfield accepted the invitation.
...
In a sprawling house located in the fancy part of the neighborhood, the atmosphere was alive with the pulsating beats of loud music that reverberated through the air, causing the ground to tremble. The party was in full swing, and young adults, not quite seasoned in the ways of responsibility, indulged in cheap liquor and Jell-O shots. The carefree atmosphere fueled their actions as they danced with abandon, engaging in reckless stunts and daring feats. Couples sought out hidden corners for passionate make-out sessions, while others eagerly sought a bedroom upstairs for more intimate encounters.
As a newcomer to the party scene, Garfield found himself enthralled by the chaotic and vibrant environment. It was overwhelming, yet undeniably exciting. The music pounded in his ears, drowning out coherent thoughts as he observed his intoxicated peers engaging in wild and sometimes foolish behavior. They screamed and shouted, their inhibitions melting away. Some climbed onto tabletops and danced, while others succumbed to the effects of alcohol and left their mark in the form of vomit-filled vases. They pushed the boundaries of their alcohol tolerance and explored their sexuality with a sense of liberation.
Amidst the uproar, Victor interrupted Garfield's party-induced trance, pulling him back to reality by handing him a drink. "Is this your first party?" He asked, houting over the blaring music.
"I went to a few in high school, but none were like this." Garfield replied, accepting the drink. He winced at the bitter taste as the Kool-aid failed to mask the harshness of the alcohol, but he continued to drink regardless.
Victor couldn't help but chuckle at Garfield's determination. "Slow down, man. You don't want to overdo it."
"I'll be fine." Garfield responded, downing the cup with a gag. If he wanted to embrace the party lifestyle, he believed he needed to build up his tolerance.
"Don't say I didn't warn you," Victor chuckled, recognizing the need to keep a watchful eye on his friend.
Undeterred, Garfield grabbed another cup, but his drink caught in his throat as a group of giggling girls ran past, shedding their shirts and leaping into the pool in a display of playful abandon. He hastily wiped the spilled drink from his chin, his wide eyes and slightly agape mouth revealing his astonishment.
"I love college." He managed to utter, captivated by the unrestrained atmosphere.
"You act like you've never seen a pair of those before." Victor teased with a raised brow and a playful smirk.
"I have." Garfield quickly clarified, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just never in person." He admitted, eliciting laughter from Victor.
"Don't worry, man." Victor assured, patting his friend on the back. "I'm an excellent wingman. I'll help you notch some belts. By the end of the semester, you'll be killing it with the ladies."
"Yeah, I'll believe that when I see it." Garfield huffed, taking another swig of his drink.
As the night wore on and the party escalated, Garfield lost count of the drinks he consumed. Each one seemed to go down smoother than the last, and soon enough, the freshman was fully immersed in his pursuit of becoming a party animal. He became reckless, throwing caution to the wind as he danced on tabletops, embracing the freedom of the moment without concern for how ridiculous he might have looked. His reserves vanished as he tore off his shirt and plunged into the pool, ignoring the consequences of his wet shoes. He engaged in body shots, embracing the spirit of adventurous indulgence by involving both girls and guys. He danced with frisky girls, allowing them to kiss and grind against him, fully immersing himself in the college experience without a care in the world.
However, as the night began to give way to the early morning hours, Victor took notice of his passed-out friend lying on the floor. With a sigh, he scooped Garfield up, hoisting him over his shoulder with ease, and made his way home, ensuring his friend's safety despite the wild night they had just experienced.
...
Startled by a loud and obnoxious noise, Garfield jolted awake, only to find himself tumbling off his bed with a resounding thud. He winced, clutching his throbbing head as a wave of pain surged through his skull.
"Vic? What the hell?" He grumbled, his voice laced with irritation. He struggled to regain his composure while the room spun around him.
Across the room, Victor stood by the noisy blender, a smile on his face. "Protein shake?" He declared, holding up a glass filled with a lumpy, green liquid. "Want one?" He asked, seemingly unfazed by the commotion he had caused.
Garfield took one look at the unappetizing concoction and promptly grabbed a nearby trash can, retching violently. The combination of the throbbing headache and the sight and smell of the protein shake proved too much for his already fragile state.
Victor shook his head, unimpressed, before taking a big gulp of his shake. "Told you not to overdo it." He remarked, his voice tinged with a mix of amusement and mock sympathy.
Contorting his face in disgust, Garfield rested his head on the edge of his mattress, desperately seeking relief from his pounding headache. "What time is it?" He groaned, hoping it was still early enough to salvage some much-needed sleep.
"6 am." Victor replied matter-of-factly. "Gotta get some training done before practice on Monday." He added, his dedication to his athletic pursuits evident. With a swift motion, he hopped down to the ground, launching into a rapid succession of push-ups.
Garfield let out a tired sigh, his body still aching from the previous night's escapades. "You have fun with that." He mumbled, his voice filled with resignation, as he settled back onto his bed, hoping to find solace in the embrace of sleep.
However, despite his exhaustion and the weight of his pounding hangover, Garfield found it increasingly difficult to drift back into slumber. His sensitive nose picked up the pungent scent of the protein shake, its putrid odor lingering in the air. Meanwhile, the continuous grunts and thuds emanating from his roommate's vigorous workout routine further disrupted any chance of tranquility. Frustrated, Garfield tossed and turned, his attempts at finding rest becoming an exercise in futility.
...
