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PROLOGUE
THE PAST ~ THREE YEARS AGO
HARLEY
“Reagan, you don’t need to transfer here. Stay where you are. Skylar and I can handle things.” I’m on the phone, walking down the sidewalk in high heels, trying not to bump into people.
“Harley, Mom is a disaster. Dad died a month ago, and the only time she has left the house has been for the funeral and her weekly visits to his grave. She barely leaves her bedroom. She won’t even consider going into the family room of her own house.” That’s where she found Dad. He collapsed after having a heart attack. He was already gone by the time she found him.
“You don’t need to do this. We’ve got it.”
“Skylar is only just starting college. She’s going to be busy making new friends, rushing, going to parties, and things like that. You’ve got your second year of medical school about to begin. You guys won’t have time.”
“You’re in college too, Reagan.”
“I know, but I think the three of us can cover more territory. Between our three busy schedules, one of us should be available at most times to check on Mom. Aunt Cass is sleeping there, so she’s got the nights and early mornings covered.” She pauses for a moment. “Harley, I just need to be here in town for her right now. She needs all of us.”
I sigh. “I guess I understand. I feel bad though. You love school so much.”
The volume of the music increases as I get closer to the club.
“I’m fine with it. Really. I know a ton of people here. My plan is to open a business in Philly anyway. I can make some good contacts by going to school here. The transfer paperwork has already been filed. I start in a week.” The music picks up. “Where the hell are you? It sounds like my freshman dorm on a Thursday night.”
“I’m meeting Angelina and some of the girls at Club Liberty tonight.”
“You’re going out? Let me mark this date on my calendar.”
“Very funny. Medical school starts back up on Monday. I’ll be buried in books in no time. The past month has been nothing short of hell. I need one night to have a few drinks and have a little fun.”
“Why the fuck wasn’t I invited? I’m the most fun person you know.” This is true. I wish I could let loose and have fun like Reagan. I’ve never been like that. I’ve always been focused on my studies.
“Sorry. It was last minute. The girls actually pushed me to go out. They said they know this will be my last night of fun for a year.” Unfortunately, this is also true.
“Good. I’m glad. Do shots, dance up a storm, and find yourself a man. You could use a little action.” She pauses for a moment. “Actually, I could use some too.”
I smile and shake my head. I wish I could. “Not really my style, but I’ll definitely have a few drinks and dance.”
“I’m telling Aunt Cass on you.”
I laugh. “No, no. I don’t need her meddling. I’ll compromise and dance with a few guys. I promise.”
“Do more than dance with them.”
I shake my head. “Good-bye. I’ll see you at Mom’s tomorrow.”
“See you then.”
I spot Angelina, Olivia, and Sophie waiting for me out front. “Sorry I’m late.”
Angelina looks at her watch. “You’re literally exactly on time.” That’s late for me. “You look hot. Nicely done. Let’s go have some fun.”
I’m wearing a short tight royal blue dress that more than shows off my figure. It’s low cut and my boobs are practically spilling out. Reagan bought it for me for Christmas last year. It’s not something I would normally wear. This is the first time I’ve ever worn it.
The bouncer lets us butt in front of the line. It’s the one perk of being fairly attractive. No lines. We head straight to the bar and order eight lemon drop shots and four margaritas.
The bartender brings us our drinks. Olivia holds a shot glass up in the air. “To Harley actually being out.” We all clink glasses and down the shot.
Sophie holds the second shot glass up in the air. “To Harley letting loose.” The three of them hold their shot glasses up. I stare at them. “Come on Harley. Just one night. Forget the past month. Forget studying. Live in the moment. Do something just because it feels good.”
