Thud. Thud. Thud. The rhythmic noise echoed through the room, an annoying drumbeat disrupting my peaceful morning."Max, could you please get the door?" I groaned, still half-asleep, my face buried in one of his pillows.Thud. Thud. Thud.Max turned to his other side, mumbling, "Isabella, it's closer to your side."Thud. Thud. Thud."Max," I whined, "you're right there."Thud. Thud. Thud.He retorted, "Isabella, you're younger.""What does that have to do with anything?" I snapped, throwing the covers over my head in an attempt to block out the relentless noise. Who in their right mind visits someone before noon on a Sunday? There should be a law against it.Thud. Thud. Thud."Please?" Max pleaded. "I feel like I'll vomit if I get up now."THUD. THUD. THUD."I can't believe you," I muttered, ignoring his "love you, too" comment as I finally gave in to the annoyance and headed for the door.As I swung the door open, I was about to unleash my frustration on the person outside when I fou

The past few days have turned out much better than I initially anticipated. While I'm still receiving notes from Lazzaro at the bakery to accept the check, at least now I can say his name without it making me want to vomit all over the popcorn that Avery and I are about to enjoy.With the boys away in LA for the weekend and Avery and I choosing to stay behind for some much-needed quality time together (something we haven't done in a while), we've been asked to house-sit for them. Given that the guys have practically transformed their living room into a home theater, it was a no-brainer for us to binge-watch our 'Fast and Furious' marathon here tonight."Ready for thirteen hours and forty-seven minutes of handsome guys, strong female leads, and an epic collection of race cars?" Avery quips as I settle onto the couch beside her, wrapping myself in the cozy blanket she throws over us. "Absolutely," I respond, placing the popcorn between us as I grab my Sour Patch Kids. "Let's get this sh

Later That EveningMax gently brushes his knuckles against my arm and asks, "Are you sure you're okay with us just hanging out here again? I had plans to make a reservation at a nice place, but I got caught up visiting Riley, and by the time I was heading back, it was too late."I retort, resting my chin on his chest as I look up at him, "Are you kidding? A Netflix and Chill night with my guy, complete with two large pizzas, a ton of Sour Patch Kids, and a six-pack of Corona...it doesn't get any better than this." He smirks and tucks a strand of my hair behind my ear before giving me a sweet kiss on the forehead."I'm just glad the house is empty again. With everything that's been going on lately, I've been craving some alone time with you," he admits. "Every day without seeing you makes me clingier.""I'd tease you for that," I confess, "but then I'd be a hypocrite." His hand cups my cheek, and I savor his touch."Yeah?" He smirks again, leaning in to peck my lips."Oh yeah," I murmu

The numerous canceled dates, the unpredictable mood swings – it all starts to make sense. Considering the stressful situation he's been in, it's no wonder Max had difficulty trusting anyone. He's been navigating this turmoil largely on his own. And then it hits me."What if you can pay them off before graduation?" I suddenly blurt out, opening my eyes to meet his confused gaze."What do you mean?" he asks."You mentioned that Kalix's parents already helped you once, during the custody battle for Riley, right? What if—""Absolutely not," Max interjects firmly. "Kalix has offered before, and I already—""Let me finish first," I interrupt him in return. "You don't even know what I was going to suggest. I know you'd never ask him for something like that.""I'm sorry," he apologizes, brushing his thumb over my lower lip. "Go on.""The point I'm trying to make is that, just like back then, you don't have to face this alone. So, I have an idea.""Isabella, I swear if it involves you—""Just

As I ascend the steps to one of UP's most renowned fraternity houses, there's no doubt as to why ATO consistently hosts the best parties on campus. It's not just their outstanding playlists, quality drinks, and spacious venue that make their gatherings a must-attend; it's the overall atmosphere. Some parts of the house are raucous, while others offer tranquility. For those seeking a middle ground, the wooden deck in the back is the perfect spot. This diversity ensures there's something for everyone, making it my favorite fraternity house for unwinding.Upon entering, I exchange greetings with familiar faces, including Ryder, and make my way to where Avery and the boys are hanging out. As the warm living room engulfs me, I'm relieved I opted for a crop top and skinny jeans instead of a sweater."There she is!" Ethan greets me as I approach the group of friends I've come to know as my own. "Clingy Clyde here was getting worried," he jests, nodding toward Max."Come on, Adams," Max retor