"When love returns, even if you leave and forget it, it will find its way back to you, and it will never let go," Maya said, her voice dreamy as she flipped through a romance novel. She glanced at Erica with a knowing smile.
Erica rolled her eyes dramatically, taking a bite of her turkey sandwich as she lounged on the grand velvet sofa in her family's penthouse mansion. "I don't believe in that nonsense, Maya. Like, if you forget it, you forget it. If you lose it, it's gone. And if you leave it, why would you even come back? Duh." Her tone was dripping with sarcasm, but her friends were used to it by now.
Why does she always talk about these fairy tales? Erica thought as she wiped her mouth with a napkin, barely glancing at Maya. Seriously, who has time for 'forever love' when you've got a busy social calendar?
Jess smirked from her spot near the coffee table, where she was painting her nails. "You really have no soul for romance, do you, Erica?"
"Nope," Erica shot back, waving her perfectly manicured hand. "I don't have time for silly love stories. I have bigger problems, like deciding where to party this weekend." She sank deeper into the sofa, reaching for a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice from the side table. Who needs love when you've got everything else?
Maya rolled her eyes, shaking her head in mock disbelief. "You say that now, but one day you'll realize love doesn't follow your rules, Erica. It'll sneak up on you when you least expect it."
Yeah, right. Erica chuckled to herself. Love is just a distraction. She took another sip of juice, dismissing the conversation.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps echoed through the grand penthouse, and Mr. Brandon Villanueva, Erica's father, descended the sweeping staircase with an air of authority. His polished shoes clicked sharply against the marble floors, his tailored suit immaculate as ever.
"Oh, ladies, what a surprise to see you here so early in the morning," he greeted, his tone warm yet commanding.
Here we go. Erica's mood shifted slightly, her shoulders stiffening as she sat up straighter. Please, no more lectures.
"Good morning, darling," Mrs. Grace Villanueva called from the kitchen as she arranged freshly cooked breakfast on the dining table. She walked over to her husband and gave him a light kiss on the cheek, her high heels clicking softly on the floor.
Erica's father sniffed the air. "What's that wonderful smell, my dear?"
Mrs. Villanueva beamed with pride. "Beef and broccoli stir-fry for your packed lunch later."
Erica grimaced from her seat. "No, ma'am, count me out. I don't eat veggies."
How many times do I have to say it? Erica thought, her expression one of exaggerated disgust. Broccoli? Gross.
Jess and Maya snickered, nodding in agreement. "Same, Mrs. V. Veggies are so not our thing," Jess added, sharing a playful look with Maya.
Mrs. Villanueva sighed but smiled indulgently. "All right, picky eaters. But don't complain if you get sick from all the junk you eat." She motioned toward the grand dining table, where fluffy pancakes with maple syrup and a selection of fruits were set. "Come, girls. Let's have breakfast together. Maya, Jess, join us."
They eagerly moved to the table, chattering about their weekend plans as they piled pancakes onto their plates. Erica drowned hers in syrup, cutting tiny, delicate bites. Thank goodness for proper food.
After breakfast, Mr. Villanueva adjusted his tie, his eyes falling on Erica. "I'll drive you to school today," he announced, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Erica sighed, rolling her eyes as she threw herself back onto the sofa. "Dad, it's fine. I can take the driver. You're busy."
Her father fixed her with a pointed look, his jaw tightening ever so slightly. "Nonsense," he replied, already grabbing his briefcase. "We'll talk about some things on the way."
Erica exchanged a glance with Jess, who raised an eyebrow at her, silently asking if she'd be okay.
Oh, great. Dad's lectures are the worst. Erica sighed inwardly. What now? Another speech about responsibility?
She reluctantly stood and grabbed her purse, faking a smile. "Fine, let's go. But I'm not going to talk about school again, okay?"
"Deal," Mr. Villanueva said, his voice cool but affectionate. "We'll talk about other things."
*****
Later that afternoon, after classes, Erica, Jess, and Maya were huddled by the lockers when Maya's phone buzzed. She grinned, showing them a message. "Hey! Richard's inviting us to his party tonight. No alcohol, just dancing and fun."
Jess's eyes lit up. "We're going, right?"
Erica hesitated for a split second but then shrugged. "Obviously. Who cares about going straight home? It's not like anyone will notice if I'm out late again."
Maya giggled. "Exactly. Let's do it!"
It's not like I'm doing anything wrong. Erica thought, the familiar excitement building up in her chest. Besides, I could really use a break from all this responsibility nonsense.
*****
The party was a whirlwind of music, lights, and laughter. Erica, in her element, danced confidently, flipping her long, shiny hair as people watched her in awe. This is what life is about - fun, freedom, and being fabulous. She twirled and laughed with Jess and Maya, the night feeling endless.
The clock ticked past midnight, but Erica didn't care. She was in her prime - carefree and alive.
It was well past midnight when she finally returned home. The penthouse was dark and quiet as she slipped through the massive double doors, heels in hand to avoid making noise. She tiptoed across the marble floor, the grand staircase looming ahead.
Just as she began ascending, two maids, Letty and Lila, appeared from the hallway.
"Miss Erica!" Letty exclaimed in a hushed tone, her eyes wide.
Erica pressed a finger to her lips, shushing them dramatically. "Shh! Don't say a word. Go back to sleep. I was never here."
Lila exchanged a glance with Letty but nodded. "Yes, ma'am."
Erica smirked to herself, feeling victorious. I'm a pro at this sneaking-around stuff.
As Erica disappeared into her room, she exhaled in relief. Crisis averted. But deep down, she knew this sneaking around wasn't sustainable. Eventually, I'll get caught.
*****
Day after day, it was the same routine - partying late, sneaking back in, and ignoring her parents' growing frustrations. Erica was hard-headed, unapologetically dramatic, and firmly set in her ways. She loved her luxurious life, her friends, and her freedom.
But what she didn't realize was that her father's patience was running thin. And soon, her perfectly curated world was about to come crashing down.
*****
"Good morning, our princess!" Mrs. Villanueva's cheerful voice rang through the spacious Mansion, bouncing off the polished marble floors and high ceilings. The sun streamed through the oversized windows, casting a golden glow on the pristine decor.
Erica groaned, burying her head under the fluffy blanket. Five more minutes, Mom. Just five. She longed to hold onto the warmth of her bed, shielding herself from the pressures waiting to pounce the moment her feet hit the floor.
Mrs. Villanueva didn't wait. The door creaked open, and in came her mother, armed with a steaming cup of coffee. "Rise and shine! You have an important lunch today, sweetheart!" The rich aroma of coffee mingled with the subtle scent of fresh peonies arranged on the dresser.
Erica peeked out, squinting against the sunlight's glare. "Can't Dad handle it by himself?" she mumbled, clutching her blanket like a lifeline.
Mrs. Villanueva chuckled, setting the coffee on the bedside table. "You know how important this is. Mr. De Leon isn't just anyone - he's a major player in your father's business. You're his secret weapon."
Great. Just what I wanted to be - a weapon for charming middle-aged men in suits. Erica groaned inwardly and rolled her eyes.
"Come on now, darling," her mother coaxed. "This is for your future. Imagine the doors this could open!"
The word future hung in the air, heavy and uninviting. A future where I'm a puppet for Dad's deals? Erica sighed and swung her legs over the side of the bed, her feet meeting the cold marble floor.
Mrs. Villanueva's eyes softened as she handed Erica the coffee. "I know it's a lot, but you'll thank us later. Trust me."
"We'll see, Mom," Erica muttered, taking a sip. The warmth of the coffee helped shake off her lingering sleepiness.
By the time she was brushing her teeth, the usual routine of her mother's voice filled the air. "Remember to smile, Erica! Your charm is your greatest asset."
"Mhm," Erica muttered through a mouthful of toothpaste. Charm won't fix how much I hate this.
*****
After a quick shower, she stood in front of her closet, scanning row upon row of designer dresses. She picked a sleek, curve-hugging number in muted rose, something her mother would approve of but still felt like her. At least I can look good while being miserable. She dabbed on some makeup, her hands moving on autopilot.
Downstairs, the breakfast table was set with precision - an array of freshly baked pastries, cut fruit, and gleaming silverware. Mrs. Villanueva bustled around, beaming with pride.
"Eat up! You'll need energy to impress Mr. De Leon."
"Why does everything in life have to be about impressing someone?" Erica asked, nibbling on a croissant.
Mrs. Villanueva paused mid-step, a hint of disapproval crossing her face. "That's how success works, dear. You have to put yourself out there. Besides, you're so good at it!"
Because I've had no choice. Erica forced a smile, stabbing at her food with her fork.
"Have you thought about what you want to do after graduation?" her mother asked, breaking the silence.
Erica stifled a sigh. "I was thinking... maybe travel? Explore the world?"
"Travel? As in... backpacking?" Mrs. Villanueva's brow furrowed. "Don't be silly. You're better suited for something practical - a good office job. You could even work with your father!"
"Sounds like a nightmare," Erica muttered under her breath, earning a sharp look from her mother.
"Erica! Don't be disrespectful," Mrs. Villanueva scolded. "Your father and I work so hard to give you everything. The least you could do is appreciate it."
"I do appreciate it, Mom," Erica said, her tone softer but strained. "I just want something different for my life. Why can't you see that?"
Mrs. Villanueva sighed, her voice softening. "Because we want what's best for you, sweetheart. You may not understand it now, but someday you will."
I don't want someday. I want now. Erica said nothing, focusing instead on the untouched croissant on her plate.
The conversation fizzled as they headed to the car. The luxury sedan purred softly as it rolled through the bustling streets. Erica stared out the window, watching the world blur past. The city was alive - people rushing, horns blaring, and colors flashing in the distance. She envied their freedom.
"The charity gala is next week! You should wear that red dress - it's so elegant," Mrs. Villanueva said, breaking the silence.
"Can we not talk about another event right now?" Erica replied, her voice clipped.
"Erica..." her mother began, but then stopped herself with a sigh.
*****
At the restaurant, the air was thick with sophistication. Crystal chandeliers glistened above pristine tables, and the hum of polite conversation filled the room. Erica's stomach churned as they stepped inside, the weight of expectation tightening around her chest.
Her father greeted them with open arms. "There's my girl!" he said, his voice booming with pride. He gestured toward a sharply dressed man beside him. "Erica, meet Mr. De Leon."
"Pleasure to meet you," Erica said, her smile automatic as she extended her hand. Mr. De Leon's grip was firm, his presence imposing.
"Your father has told me so much about you," Mr. De Leon said, his eyes sharp and assessing.
Of course he has. I'm his golden ticket. Erica nodded politely, retreating to her seat as the men launched into a discussion filled with buzzwords like "synergy" and "market trends."
Her father noticed her silence. "Everything okay, Erica?"
"I'm fine, Dad. Just... thinking," she replied quickly, forcing a smile. Thinking about how much I want to escape this circus.
The meal dragged on, every laugh and handshake reminding her of how staged it all was. Toward the end, Mr. De Leon turned to her. "You know, Erica, you'd do well in your father's company. There's a lot of potential for someone like you."
"Thank you, but I'm not sure that's my path," she said, her voice polite but firm. Why does everyone assume they know what's best for me?
Her father frowned slightly, but before he could press the issue, Mrs. Villanueva chimed in, her excitement about the gala filling the void.
As they left the restaurant, Erica felt the knot in her chest tighten. Her mother was already gushing about how well the lunch went.
"You were wonderful, darling!"
"Thanks, Mom," Erica replied flatly, her gaze fixed on the horizon. Wonderful at pretending, maybe.
Little did she know, her carefully constructed world was about to crumble. Beyond the horizon, an adventure waited - a chance to shatter the chains of expectation and discover who she truly was.