The Bad Boy Next Room (Charlie and Taylor)

"Everyone settle down. Today, we have a very important announcement to make..." the female dean said.

A new Vice President for Academic Affairs was introduced. He stood before the auditorium and addressed the students, saying, "Under my leadership, there will be changes, including fostering a more united student environment. Unlike previous years, we will see each other more often during assemblies."

The audience applauded as the new Vice President for Academic Affairs concluded his speech. Following this, the dean of the College of Business stepped forward and addressed the crowd.

"Since we are all gathered here today," she began, "we would like to take this opportunity to recognize our current top students. When your name is called, please come up on stage to receive your certificate."

Charlie never expected an early recognition, especially since the semester was not over. However, she understood it was the school's way of supporting the top students.

"Let's start with the College of Business," the dean said with a smile. "First up is Charlie Rae King from Business Administration!"

***

Before the assembly began, Taylor caught Charlie ignoring him again. As he settled in his seat, he hissed in silence, 'I'm going to get you for that, Charlie Blondie.'

While he was formulating a plan, the current dean on stage called a familiar name. Immediately, Taylor's head snapped in Charlie's direction. His gaze never left her as she walked up the stage.

'Charlie Blondie? Well, what do you know? She is actually a smartie?' Taylor thought. His lips curved up into an amused grin.

The dean gave Charlie a certificate. After that, she announced, "In her year, Miss Charlie King was the top student in Business Administration for three years. Her dedication inspires her peers, and we at the College of Business take great pride in her achievements."

"See that Taylor, Business Administration's top student, is gorgeous!" Taylor's close friend, Atlas, said before whistling.

It wasn't just Atlas. The other guys in the College of Engineering began throwing compliments at Charlie.

"What?" Taylor reacted to Atlas' words. He frowned and coughed against his fist, saying, "She is not that gorgeous. I mean, she is okay."

"What the hell, Taylor? Are you fucking blind? Look at her! She is naturally beautiful!" Atlas reacted before he returned his attention to the stage. Atlas stood up and screamed, "Hi, Charlie! I'm Atlas! Talk to you later -"

Taylor grabbed Atlas' jacket and pulled him back down in his seat. He said, "She is not your type."

"What the hell, Man?" Atlas complained. "How do you know my type? Are you me?"

"Hey, Charlie! Are you single?" another engineering student from the front row asked.

"Settle down, hungry wolves of the College of Engineering. We know our top student is a beauty, but unfortunately, she is already in a relationship," the dean said jokingly. "She is our captain's girlfriend."noveldrama

"Charlie, since you are already here and being Luke's girlfriend, why don't you say a few encouraging words for our Wall Street Warriors," the dean requested.

"Ahhh! Booo!" Many of the College of Engineering reacted. "No way, she can't be with Luke!"

Meanwhile, Taylor was stunned. He turned to Luke, but the jerk was seated beside a girl with black hair! How could Charlie be his girlfriend? What's more awkward was the sudden silence within the College of Business!

Clearly, there was something off, and Taylor was curious.

Taylor watched as Charlie's face paled. She looked extremely uncomfortable as she took the microphone. She explained, "I - I am not Luke's girlfriend anymore. Maybe his new girlfriend, Regina Wyatt, would like to say a few words."

Everyone's gazes landed on the girl next to Luke, wondering if the dean would call upon Luke's new girlfriend!

However, the dean of the College of Business understood her mistake. She instead cleared her throat and said, "Ah, well, never mind then." She smiled at Charlie and said, "Congratulations, Charlie."

While Charlie returned to her seat, Taylor then remembered what she said to him at the condo. 'I was betrayed by the people I loved and trusted.'

Taylor understood what went on, but he was still curious and wanted to hear

more.

"Wait," Taylor thought. 'So, if she was Luke's ex, then she -' Instantly, Taylor remembered why Charlie was so familiar.

"Did you hear that, Bro," Atlas said, elbowing Taylor. "She is available. I think I finally met the girl of my dreams."

Taylor, "..."

'She's available.' Taylor silently echoed. A clever idea formed in his mind.