Chapter 2
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2: Old Friends
The Tri-Var mansion was nothing like Cecilia expected. Cecilia had been looking forward to moving into it since she had received the invitation in the mail to join the sorority a few months ago.
It's clearly been renovated over the years, but Cecilia could tell that the workmanship was poor. The paint was peeling, the grass was overgrown, there was little landscaping and there were cracks in the walls that were hidden by paintings, plants or simply plastered over sloppily.
Maybe Cecilia could make this place her pet project, she thought. It desperately needed TLC. The girls who lived here last didn't seem to put much of the sorority's finances into the actual building itself.
As for the residents, they seemed to be covered in as much veneer as the house. Tashia Felding was polite enough, but her greeting was tense as if she was forcing herself to be nice.
Cecilia didn't blame her, though. There was no need for her to go through the usual pledge process. Being the daughter of a famous singer and the town's richest man afforded her that notoriety. She suspected she was resented for it. Just a little bit.
Samantha Travinski was a little more friendly though in a more sycophantic way. She was smart, but seemed far too eager to please.
Cecilia, as much as she hated to admit, did have a lot in common with her mother. She was at least able to see through people's motives, use it to her advantage, and make the best of any social situation. Before long, she managed to make friends quickly. Her status on campus started to climb dramatically...
Even though it came at the expense of others... the less pretty, the nerds and the weirdos. With Cecilia around, the Tri-Var sorority took on a new kind of mean streak.
It didn't make her friends outside the beautiful crowd...
What was more important was that she didn't care. She'd rather impress her new friends than be the nice girl she was all through highschool.
The day's outings weren't much different. Tri-Var spent the morning recruiting outside the University Central. Potential pledges were plenty, but who'd get in was a different story.
Tashia: So she actually came up to me and said she wanted to join.
Cecilia: What did you tell her.
Tashia: Of course I said sure, come to the pledge meet. I think I gave her directions to a weight watcher's meeting.
Cecilia: I almost want to see the look on her face.
Tashia: We seriously need to have a "no hippo" rule in our charter.
Cecilia: That's awful!
Tashia: Please, as if you didn't laugh... hey check it, here comes a precious one now.
Samantha: Awesome. I don't know, shitty clothes from a decade ago, retro hip or just plain suck?
Cecilia: I'm just gonna go with ugly. This'll be fun.
Samantha: What are you doing?
Cecilia: Sssh.
"What the hell...!"
Cecilia: Oh shit, Willow I didn't know that was you.
Cecilia: It must have been all that.. geek...
The laughter from the Tri-Var girls and everyone else was in no way good natured. Willow Marlen glared at Cecilia with a look that might as well have been knives.
Willow: Cecilia, what is your problem?! What are you, twelve?
Cecilia: God, Willow lighten up. It's just water, it's not like you're gonna melt.
Tashia: Too funny, girl. You're going to get in serious trouble one of these days.
Samantha: You know her?
Cecilia: Yeah, that's just Willow. She can handle it. She's a little off, though.
Willow began to swear. A little off... what was that supposed to mean? She watched the sorority sisters walk away laughing as if they've done nothing wrong.
Jasmine: Um, yeah, I have no idea when she became such a little douche.
Willow: You know, when I got to college I thought I'd get away from all these ridiculous immature highschool antics.
Jasmine: She wasn't like this in highschool. This is a whole new level of stupidity on her part. It's a phase.
Willow: Are you making excuses for her?
Jasmine: Oh hell no. If you want to take swing at her, be my guest. I won't hold you back.
Willow: I'm glad you didn't join Tri-Var.
Jasmine: Yeah well all that bullshit sister bonding and fake empowerment those sororities are all up about isn't my thing. Besides, all that pink would drive me nuts.
Willow: What is it about Greek houses that seems to bring out that lame superiority complex in people.
Jasmine: I don't think Tri Var did it to her. If I were to guess, Cecilia is acting out suppressed anger due to the feeling of alienation by a maternal figure. I learned that in Psyche!
Willow: Or maybe she feels pressure to conform to her peers and establish herself as the alpha female by suppressing all those she believes are weaker than her. Or maybe she is just a douche. You're from the same upbringing, you're fine.
Jasmine: Only because I hide my messed up tendencies well. My parent's divorce didn't slide off of me. But I'm also older and wiser than she is.
Willow: Hey, check this out.
Jasmine: It's a book.
Willow: Well of course it's a book, silly.
Willow: I found it in the library of all places. It's weird, it was just sitting there. But it has instructions on the art of necronomy. Look.. here's a drawing of an ancient contraption and the ancient simlish ritual that you need to do in order to raise the dead.
Jasmine: Are we going to do any resurrecting the dead this weekend?
Jasmine: It'd be nice to know if you're going to bring about the zombie apocalypse. I should get better shoes for that.
Willow: But this stuff is fascinating. Apparently sims used to do this all the time until witchcraft was banned in Simtopi.
Jasmine: Oh come on, it wasn't "banned". You can't ban something that never existed.
Jasmine: Seriously, Willow, I can't believe that you believe in this shit.
Willow: I don't think it's as lame as you think. Why do you think they have paranormal studies if there wasn't anything to it.
Jasmine: Come on, you're smarter than that.
Willow shook her head and ignored her friend, brushing her misgivings off with a smile.
Willow: Haha, look... here's an old simlish spell to turn people into chickens. Weird.
Jasmine: That's really practical. Maybe you can use that on Cecilia.
"Hey Willow."
Willow: Oh hey, Adrian.
Willow looked up as her old friend, Adrian Duarte walked up to them. Jasmine couldn't help notice how Willow's eyes seemed to light up a bit to greet him as she hurriedly hid her book behind her.
Willow: They already got you in a uniform, I see.
Adrian: Haha, yeah. We've got a game this afternoon, I figured I'd come by to practice a bit before heading out to the field.
Willow: This is my friend, Jasmine. Jasmine, this is Adrian. He just transferred here this term.
Adrian: Nice to meet you, Jasmine.
Jasmine: How are you liking Sim State U?
Adrian: Well, so far it's a lot rainier than Fiesta Tech.
Adrian: It's just a bit of getting used to but it's closer to home for me. You're not a senior, are you? I don't think I've seen you in any of my classes.
Jasmine: Nope, I'm just a junior.
Adrian: Well it's great meeting you... but I gotta get practicing. How about we all meet up later?
Willow: Um.. yeah okay.
Jasmine smiled knowingly at her friend as they watched Adrian walk up the field.
Jasmine: You've never told me about him before.
Willow: What about him?
Jasmine: I just didn't know you knew any jocks.
Willow blushed and smiled. She really couldn't help think of the first day she met Adrian in highschool. Willow had always been in an awkward place during those years. When she was a child, her parents had spent a lot of money on private tutors before they decided, with her insistence, to send her off to public school. She was always the odd girl out. It was hard for her to relate to anyone there.
Adrian Duarte walked in looking confused, wondering if this was supposed to be his class. He was her almost her age... which surprised her because she always ended up being one of the oldest students in any given class.
Of course, he was more sociable than she was. It seemed like making friends was a lot easier for nearly everyone else.
She had to admit, she liked Adrian back then. Liked him a lot.
But that was highschool. And while Willow could recognize that Adrian was attractive, she and him had been friends far too long for Willow to see him as anything else at this point. In any case, what would he see in her anyway.
Jasmine: Look at you. It's like you found a lost puppy. You into him?
Willow: What? Oh no. No, no. I mean, yeah sure, I liked him... back in highschool.
Willow: He's just a friend, that's all.
Willow nervously tried to redirect the topic of conversation, suddenly feeling a little uncomfortable.
Willow: You know, he's been looking for a place closer to campus. Do you know if your dorm has any extra rooms?
Jasmine: I don't know. I'll find out though.
Willow: Cool. I gotta get going. I have so much studying to do today. I have a feeling I'm going to hate senior year.
Jasmine: I'll see you later. Remember, say no to zombies.
Willow: Haha, Jasmine.
Despite today's encounter with Cecilia, Willow had to remember how much she liked college. She loved living at home with Colin and Elf, but she had never really been independent up until now. It had all to do with that strange incident when she was a kid when they thought she had run away from home. From then on, her parents nearly never let her out of their sight.
It was a little hard to deal with as a child. Her brothers had never been as sheltered as she was. But she understood now that it was because they loved her.
At the dorm, Willow volunteered in a lot of chores. She helped their cafeteria cook, Mr. Ternyck, clean up around the kitchen and once in a while prepare meals. No one else really bothered to pay any attention to him except her. Mr. Ternyck was relatively quiet, so she wasn't sure if he appreciated it.
And of course she always seemed to end up being picked on by the Cow mascot. She was beginning to wonder if there was a big target painted on her forehead by how. But she knew the answer to that: it was because she never fought back or in the least complained. It was all "good natured" fun.
She knew her friends would be out this Saturday having fun, partying. She Preferred to stay in and study. Being a biology major in senior year managed to keep her busy; enough to avoid being social.
She didn't mind it. She enjoyed learning and studying.
Willow enjoyed it quite a bit.
The problem with her conversation with Jasmine today was that she knew that her best friend was wrong about witchcraft. She knew it existed. She's known it for years, but she just couldn't say anything.
This better work, she thought to herself.
Willow: Excellent!
She smiled broadly as she headed back into the house after her little experiment was done. Fireflies, she thought with excitement. I just made fireflies.
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Later that night was just another of Tri-Var sorority parties. Cecilia took a lot of pride in organizing it as this was the first party she ever threw for her sorority. Pizza was sent out for, drinks were readily available, music was in every room and she invited nearly everyone she knew.
It was a great opportunity for Cecilia to meet some of the potential pledges that night. Again, hand picked by her.
And of course, the party was awesome. Everyone seemed to be having a good time so far.
She insisted that Jasmine show up and her older sister grudgingly obliged. Jasmine was at least happy to find out that Gabriel was there too.
Their older cousin was a senior and though they all went to the same college, Jasmine still felt that they never saw enough of each other. But she was always happy to find time for him. He was always a lot more casual than most of the guys Jasmine or Cecilia were used to hanging around with. He couldn't identify with the beauties, or the jocks, or the rebels, or even the nerds. He was just laid back Gabriel. Getting to know him most would never guess that he was a Markelly, one of the founding families of SimTopi.
They had spent a lot of time with each other as kids, visiting each other's places frequently. Aunt Lydia's was practically a second home.
They may as well have been siblings rather than cousins. Of course, that was all before the drama of her parents divorce.
Gabriel: I figured you'd be out here. Always hanging out where everyone else isn't.
Jasmine: Yes, well, notice the beverage in my hand. It's how I can tolerate this place at all.
Jasmine: What are you doing here?
Gabriel: Me? I'm here for the ladies. So far, I'm coming in at zero.
Jasmine: Poor guy. Maybe you need to stop checking out these brainless twits.
Gabriel: What you think I have standards? For someone who keeps professing her hatred of Tri Var you sure end up here a lot.
Jasmine: Cecilia invited me, okay.
Gabriel: Right there, that's your problem.
Jasmine: What... being invited?
Gabriel: No. Cecilia. I haven't seen you out anywhere except for these parties and only because Cecilia is here. I think you're still trying to be all big sister looking out for her. At your expense. You need a better definition of fun, one that doesn't involve babysitting.
Jasmine: Listen, it's Cecilia's first year. I just want to make sure she gets through it fine. She's had a hard past few years.
Gabriel: You'd think she's the only precious little princess who's parents divorce. Look at me, I'm the product of a single mom, I came out fine.
Jasmine: You are a perfect example of a precious little princess.
Gabriel: Seriously. Don't be a bitch.
Cecilia: Guys! OMG OMG OMG! Gabe, I need your help!
Gabriel: Calm down, what's wrong?
Cecilia: Rowan is here.
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Rowan Marlen stood at the doors to the mansion, taking in the pink of the foyer as the Tri Var girls began to circle around him like hyenas protecting their den.
Rowan: Alright ladies, no need to crowd, there's enough of me for all of you.
Cecilia: Rowan, who invited you?!
Rowan: No one. I invited myself. I hear you're taking pledges.
Cecilia: What? Rowan... just... no!
Rowan: Am I hearing that right? Am I being discriminated against because of my gender?
Cecilia: Rowan, you don't even go to this school!
Rowan: And? I'm here now.
Tashia: Who is that?
Rowan: This is my girl. I think you ladies met Tina earlier?
Tina: 'Sup. Finally nice to see what you've done around here. Oh that wallpaper is just lovely.
Tashia: Ceceeeeeeeelia, we need to talk.
In the other room, Jasmine was surprised that Adrian had taken her up on her invitation and joined them here. She knew he was new here and just wanted to be polite in bringing him along.
Jasmine: Sorry, didn't mean to just invite you and not be around.
Adrian: No it's cool. Everyone here is ... interesting.
Jasmine: Apparently my sister is having a stroke in the other room.
Adrian: Is she okay?
Jasmine: That's sweet of you to ask. But she'll be fine. She's just being a brat.
Adrian: Willow isn't here is she?
Jasmine: Ha, even if she was invited, Willow wouldn't go to these things. I don't think she's liking Cecilia much lately anyway.
Jasmine: Believe me, I've tried to get her out.
Adrian: I figured. She doesn't seem like the type to party and stuff. It's too bad, I'd have liked to have seen her tonight. How do you know her anyway?
Jasmine: My dad and her mom are old college friends. They used to date. Isn't that weird?
Adrian: It's not that weird. As long as your mom can deal with your dad hanging out with the ex.
Jasmine: Funny story. My mom cheated on my dad with some loser at a party.
Adrian: Um...sorry, didn't mean to bring that up...
Jasmine: No, it is a funny story. Okay, maybe it's just me.
The party continued and despite Cecilia's polite protests, Rowan stayed.
Rowan: Hello there Jasmine Baird! Haven't seen you in a while.
Jasmine: Well actually, I saw you the other week. You were passed out in the campus lounge and security was trying to haul you away.
Rowan: Right. Why don't I remember that? Offer still stands, sweetie. You. Me. Maybe Tina if you're into that?
Gabriel: Listen, I think tonight you're gonna ease up on the rudeness, take it easy and leave the nice lady alone. I hope that's cool with you.
Rowan: Well take a look at Mister White Knight here?!
Gabriel: Okay, sure, let's go with that.
Rowan: Lemme give you some advice: that shit gets old. Chivalry is dead and the bitches don't appreciate it. Look, she'll probably be the first one to tell you she can take care of herself.
Jasmine: I can take care of myself, Gabe.
Gabriel: Oh shut up.
Rowan: See what I mean? Dude, really I'm just here for the nachos and beer. I totally respect your girl over there.
Gabriel paused slightly then turned around.
Gabriel: Okay then! I guess that's all I have.
Jasmine grinned, shaking her head.
Jasmine: You're backing down just like that?
Gabriel: You heard him, he's just here for the nachos. How are you gonna deny a dude nachos?
Jasmine: Some knight in shining armour you are.
However, it seemed that at least one Tri Var sister didn't seem to mind having Rowan around.
Rowan was all too happy to entertain Samantha that night.
While Cecilia felt like she'd rather throw up. This party was not going the way she planned it.
And the night ended in short order.
Cecilia: He totally ruined my party, Jasmine.
Jasmine: You'll get over it. See you later!
Cecilia: Jasmine!
Jasmine: Well... maybe next time you'll think twice about waterbombing his sister. Right?
Jasmine ignored her sister's whine as she met up with Adrian outside.
Jasmine: They're all heading out to the Warehouse for drinks. Are you going with them?
Adrian: Me? Nah, it takes me an hour and a half to drive home. Can't wait to get a place close by. Are you going?
Jasmine: Nope, I'm pretty beat. But I'm glad you came out.
Adrian: Me too. Come on, I'll walk you home.
Adrian: And no, I'm not being 'chivalrous' or anything like that. I just kinda want to check out the dorm I may be moving to.
Jasmine couldn't help but smile as she found herself unable to find an excuse to walk home alone.
Jasmine: Okay fair enough.
Adrian: Will your sister be okay?
Jasmine: She'll be fine. Thanks to Rowan, this was probably the best party she's ever had.
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It was about three in the morning when Willow heard commotion coming from the courtyard below. She looked up from the assignment she had been engrossed in.
What the heck is going on down there? Is that...
She ran downstairs as quickly as she could. It wasn't often that her older brother turn up passed out in front of her dorm.
Willow: Rowan! Rowan, get up!!! Please?
Rowan: Nnnnggph zzzzzzz....
Gabriel: Oh hey, you found him. I was just looking for you.
Willow: Gabriel, what happened??? What did you do to him?
Gabriel: What did I do to him? It's more like what did he do to himself!
Willow: Is he... drunk?
Gabriel: Oh god, it's so cute how naive you are.
Willow: I am not naive. And you're drunk too!
Gabriel: Yeah just a bit. We were at the Warehouse. I didn't know where he lived and I didn't know what else to do with him so i just brought him here. You know it is possible for a club to run out of bourbon?
Willow: You dragged him all the way here?
Gabriel: He walked... sort of. This circumstance of him being wiped out on the pavement is pretty new.
Willow: Well at least help me get him on the couch.
Gabriel: Negative. I'm wasted and I'm going to bed. Just because I live here too doesn't make him my responsibility.
Willow: Yeah, thanks, jerk.
Through much prodding and a bit of kicking, Willow managed to get Rowan just conscious enough to use his legs and walk him over to the couch in the common room. She sat with him for a while making sure he was sleeping soundly and hoping he wasn't dying of alcohol poisoning. After a while of watching him snore, she sighed and headed back upstairs.
When did I become the big sister? Willow thought.
It was later than she'd have liked, she thought as she climbed into bed and closed her eyes.
The last thing she thought of as she drifted to sleep was Rowan.
The dreams she had that night were old and familiar.
In her mind, a fire raged uncontrollably around her. It was the same dream she had had for the past eight years.
next » [ Chapter Three: Waking Up ]