Against All Odds

CHAPTER - 3

CAMERON

Flashing disco balls were the first thing that caught my attention as I entered the hall. The venue was filled with lively music and chatters of guests.

I made my way further into the crowd, just as I started to get myself a drink, my friend Oliver appeared beside me, a wide grin on his face. I scanned the room and caught sight of Lara, her eyes sparkling with interest. Leaning casually against the bar, she smirked and playfully raised an eyebrow, attempting to catch my attention. However, I couldn't help but feel that she was the least desirable person to engage in a conversation with. "Hi there handsome!" She purred, her voice dripping with false sweetness.

"Hey Lara." I replied, trying to keep my tone neutral.

"Don't you wanna get a drink for me?" She asked, as if I was one of her crazy admirers. I rolled my eyes, growing impatient with her persistent tries.

"Lara, let's be clear, I'm not interested, and I never will be."

Just as I finished speaking, my attention was abruptly diverted from Lara. The room seemed to fade into the background as I caught sight of Elle, Liam Davis's little sister, entering the hall with her friends. My heart skipped a beat at the sight of her stunning dress, her luscious blonde hair, and her captivating blue eyes shining like two bright stars. Completely disregarding Lara's piercing glare, I smoothly made my way towards Elle. "And here I thought my night couldn't get any better."

"Cameron!?"

"I hope you haven't forgotten about our oh-so-memorable moment at the library." I teased, accompanied by a playful wink. Her cheeks flushed a rosy shade of red. "The way you blushed, the lingering glances... we could practically write a romance novel based on that moment." I added, a mischievous smile playing on my lips.

"Whoa! You guys had a moment in the library?" Her brunette friend chimed in.

"Olivia, how about we go grab a drink?" The redheaded suggested.

"But, I-" Olivia began, but her friend pulled her away, leading her towards the bar, leaving me and this stunning woman to talk.

"Don't go letting it get to your head." She replied, her voice tinged with a hint of intimidation.

As Cameron and Elle engaged in the conversation, Lara seethed with anger, her face contorted with jealousy. She was accustomed to being the center of attention, and now she felt invisible in Cameron's eyes.

"You know, I never would have pegged you as a party person." I playfully teased.

She smiled politely. "No, I prefer to keep a low profile."

Leaning in closer, I couldn't help but point out the irony. "Yet here you are, at one of the biggest parties of the year."

"Against my own will!" She exclaimed, causing me to chuckle at her response.

"Well, I'm glad they managed to convince you."

"Are you?" She asked, her face turning slightly red.

I nodded. "Absolutely. It would be a shame for you to miss out on such college experiences."

She shrugged, nonchalantly. "Well, they won't let me miss out on much."

"Or perhaps you'd rather be at home, watching movies or reading romantic novels." I suggested, leaning even closer to her.

"You remember." Her face displayed a look of astonishment.

"What can I say? You tend to stand out."

She rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "Save your lines for someone who actually wants to hear them. I'm sure there are plenty."