PROLOGUE
PROLOGUEThe golden light of late afternoon filtered through the sprawling windows of the mansion, catching the sparkle of the crystal chandelier and bathing the marble floors in a soft glow. Ariana Grande's Into You played softly in the background, her voice a sultry echo as it seeped into every corner of the grand room.
Masi sat cross-legged on the velvet chaise, scrolling through her phone with a practised air of disinterest. Justin leaned against the bar, sipping something amber and expensive, his gaze fixed on her.
Justin: You look too calm for someone about to own the night.
Masi: Calm? Please, Justin. I’m already ten moves ahead of everyone else.
Justin: That’s why you’re my queen.
She finally met his gaze, a playful spark in her eyes. Tonight wasn’t just another night. It was the start of their senior year—their last chance to live recklessly before being absorbed into the empires their parents had built.
Masi: We should head out. You know Kiara’s going to make us wait forever.
Justin shrugged, finishing his drink in one smooth motion before grabbing the keys to the black convertible parked in the circular driveway outside.
Descending the marble staircase, they passed house staff who moved swiftly, preparing the mansion for some event Masi’s parents had meticulously planned. It didn’t matter what—auctions, galas, or business meetings were all the same to her. The only reason she even acknowledged their existence was because her friends’ parents were there too, all working toward their version of domination.
The convertible’s engine purred to life as Masi slid into the driver’s seat, her sunglasses perched perfectly on her nose.
Justin: Let’s see if Kiara’s outfit is worth the wait tonight.
---
OUTSIDE KIARA’S HOUSE
Kiara’s family estate was just as grand, if not more ostentatious, than Masi’s. She emerged from the front doors wearing a glittering gold mini-dress that caught the dying rays of sunlight, her heels clacking sharply against the driveway as she made her way to the car.
Kiara: I hope tonight’s good. I turned down a yacht party for this.
Masi: Then don’t ruin it.
Kiara snorted, brushing off the jab as the convertible sped down the long, winding road toward the city.
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CLUB ELITE
The others arrived at Club Elite in their flashy cars: Siyanda’s matte black sports car, Ayanda’s sleek coupe, and Luthando’s unnecessarily loud SUV. The valet line was a parade of excess, with paparazzi lingering just out of reach, hoping to catch a glimpse of the heirs to corporate and lucrative houses.
Inside, they were ushered into their private VIP section, away from the masses. Bottles of champagne sat in ice buckets, and a mix of laughter and music drowned out any attempts at meaningful conversation.
Masi sipped her drink slowly, her eyes scanning the room. Justin leaned close, whispering something in her ear that made her laugh, but her attention remained divided.
Across the table, Siyanda and Luthando exchanged furtive glances before disappearing briefly. When they returned, their eyes were sharper, their movements jittery.
Kiara: Seriously? already? It’s not even midnight.
Luthando: Relax, Kiara. We’re just getting started.
By the time they left the club, they were wasted—some more than others. The convertible swerved slightly as Masi drove, Justin’s hand steadying her wrist on the gearshift. The others followed in their own cars, a convoy of privilege cutting through the night.
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AT SOME PRIVATE BEACH
The private beach glowed with the light of a bonfire, the flames casting long shadows over the sand. Staff had already prepared everything—the volleyball net strung up, chairs arranged neatly, and drinks stocked.
Some of the group stayed near the fire, laughing and drinking, while others ventured toward the volleyball court, the sound of the ball punctuating their shouts.
Masi stood apart, her bare feet digging into the cool sand as she watched the waves roll in. Justin approached, draping an arm around her shoulder.
Justin: You’re quiet. That’s not like you.
Masi: Just thinking.
Justin: About what? We’re on top of the world, Masi. There’s nothing to worry about.
She glanced back toward the group, her gaze lingering on Kiara’s sharp laugh, Siyanda’s brash boasting, and the muted conversations between Ayanda and Thandeka.
As the night wore on, their laughter echoed across the beach, blending with the crash of waves. To anyone watching, they seemed untouchable. But beneath the surface, secrets smouldered like embers, waiting for the moment to ignite.
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