Chapter 1: Life as nothing but an asset
In the bustling metropolis of City A, a rigid system called "ZERO" divides society, delineating status with colors: yellow for commoners, green for the middle class, gold for the elite, and ocean blue for the 1 percent. Yet, I, born with brown eyes, exist outside these classifications, raising questions about my identity and place in this stratified world. Was I an abomination or the start of something extraordinary? Answers eluded me until I encountered a mysterious individual—special, cold, and mean all at once—whose presence intrigued and unsettled me. Little did I know, this encounter marked the beginning of a striking journey that would question everything I thought I knew about myself and the society I inhabited...
During Mr. Ronald's campaign, camera lights flashed and reporters crowded below the podium, questioning Ronald about the upcoming election for the Senate. He stood with a cheerful smile, exuding confidence and nobility.
"Sir, what are your intentions towards the election?" a journalist asked. Ronald leaned forward slightly, bringing his head closer to the microphone. "To serve our motherland with love, duty, and honesty," he replied.
After a moment of silence following his words, another journalist threw a question at him. "Honestly, this seems a bit different because I don't see how it could benefit the citizens. Other candidates promise electricity, food, free medical centers, and much more, but you're introducing a new dimension," the journalist said.
"Isn't serving our motherland synonymous with caring for it and its inhabitants? Promises of light, food, and free medical services have been made for so long, yet nothing has been done. Isn't it time we ventured into this new era with honesty, duty, and love? Something that would restore belief and trust in our motherland?" Ronald questioned, his eyes piercing into the hearts of the reporters.
His words left everyone in awe as they nodded in agreement, pondering the sincerity and depth of his message.
"Sir what makes you feel fit for the role, looking deep you're not too balanced and comparing your lifestyle, how sure are we to trust someone who speaks about honesty but isn't honest and clean?" a female reporter asked as she locked gaze with Ronald who tried to force a smile after being hit in a sensitive part. "Please elaborate..." he said his eyes already fuming with irritation as they burned a hole through the lady, "We all know you have a daughter who some few years back was rumored to be a forgotten princess of the Hale family because she has no class in the system "ZERO" was it embarrassment or you felt it was not necessary since no attention to be paid to her that you got her artificial gold eyes to cover the shame...and then you came clean in public she was a birth elite???" The room fell into silence again this time nobody wanted to speak up, everyone wanted to hear what the candidate had to say, this had been an unsolved case ramaging for a few years now and nobody was bold enough to look into it, but then told of all time a god-sent questioned, what audacity! her industry is ruined. Seeing the satisfying smile that was displayed on the female journalist's lips, gave Ronald a feeling that couldn't be ignored. he would fish out this rat later on.
Ronald's smile strained against the weight of the question. It wasn't unexpected, but the directness still hit him hard. He maintained eye contact with the reporter, recognizing the gravity of her inquiry. His fists clenched involuntarily, but he forced himself to maintain his composure, knowing that any outburst would only fuel the fire.
"I understand that there have been rumors and speculation surrounding my daughter's background," Ronald replied, his voice tight with restraint. "But let me be unequivocal: my daughter's identity is not a matter for public scrutiny. She is a private individual entitled to her own life and choices."
"I appreciate your question," Ronald continued, his tone measured. "Trust is indeed a crucial aspect of leadership, and, understandably, it's being scrutinized. However, I believe actions speak louder than words."
He took a moment to gather his thoughts, feeling the weight against him. "While none of us are perfect, I've always strived to be transparent and forthright in both my personal and professional dealings. I've worked tirelessly to uphold the principles of honesty and integrity, and I stand by my record."
He took a deliberate breath, trying to quell the rising tide of emotion within him. "As for the alleged 'forgotten princess' narrative, it is nothing more than baseless gossip. My daughter's worth is not defined by her lineage or any artificial standards of 'class.' She is a person of integrity and talent, and I am immensely proud of her."
Ronald's gaze bore into the reporter, his frustration palpable. "As for the matter of her artificial gold eyes, that was a medical decision made in consultation with professionals, not some attempt to cover up supposed shame. My daughter's health and well-being are paramount, and any insinuation otherwise is both offensive and untrue."
"And as for my lifestyle, I am who I am. I don't claim perfection, but I do promise sincerity. I'm committed to serving with honesty and dedication, and I hope to earn the trust of the people through my actions."
Despite the turmoil within him, Ronald's voice remained steady. He knew that regaining trust would require more than just words—it would demand consistent, genuine effort. And he was determined to prove himself worthy of that trust, no matter what game he had to play.
Claire's eyes widened in disbelief as her father dropped the bombshell news. The air in the room seemed to grow heavier, and the silence echoed with the weight of the announcement. Her stoic and resolute father exchanged glances that conveyed urgency and a sense of duty.
At first, Claire's expression registered confusion, her brows furrowing as if grappling with the gravity of the information. Then, as the words sank in, a mixture of shock and betrayal painted across her features. Her eyes once filled with a spark of independence and dreams, now flickered with a sense of resignation.
The news hit Claire like an unexpected storm, and a wave of emotions swept over her. There was a momentary struggle to find words, her mouth opening and closing without sound as if grappling with the reality of what had just been revealed. The color drained from her face, her hands instinctively clasped in her lap, fingers gripping tightly as if seeking an anchor in the storm of emotions.
The room seemed to close in around her, and the walls of tradition and duty pressed against the desires of her heart.
"What on Earth??" Was All that could escape her lips?
"It's for your Sake and that of the family," Her father, Ronald said without hesitation, as he felt it was only normal to give his daughter a hand in Marriage.
"I'm just 18" She stuttered.
Claire's initial shock morphed into a mixture of frustration and sadness. Once vibrant and full of dreams, her eyes now held a hint of moisture that threatened to spill over. The weight of the responsibility thrust upon her clashed with the dreams she had envisioned for her future.
"Be useful for once Claire, This is for your good…As a father that's how I can help," Her father turned to leave the room, but he stopped "And don't even dream of running away, Don't mess up things for me" With that he stepped out.
Claire was dumbfounded, this was not the life she wanted to have, her dreams…nothing ever seemed right. What about school? 0% Achievement, No…I can't get married ~She thought.
She took out her phone and dialed her emergency number, the person on the other end picked up, "Where are you" She asked with desperation.
Claire, still reeling from the shocking news of her impending arranged marriage, found herself seeking solace at the renowned No 16 Airways line club. The pulsating beat of music and the dimly lit ambiance provided a temporary escape from the weight of her family's expectations.
She had called Percy, her childhood friend after receiving the heartbreaking news from her father. As Claire settled into a corner booth, She felt relieved from the Pressure she was under a while ago. Percy's eyes met Claire's across the room, and a knowing look passed between them.
Percy strode to where Claire was sitting and sat opposite her, The bond between them was like that of sisters, and seeing Percy brought a flicker of comfort amid the chaos.
"I am getting Married" Claire broke the news.
~ptooey
"Percy spit out the drink in her mouth as she stared at her best friend with utter confusion and wide eyes….
"What???"
Percy's mind raced with questions as she processed Claire's tumultuous narrative. Thoughts of Claire's dreams and the unfairness of the situation flooded Percy's mind. "Why would they treat you like this? Is it because you're seen as the illegitimate child?" Percy's eyes bore into Claire's, seeking answers to the unsettling puzzle.
Claire, watching her friend's internal turmoil, felt a surge of frustration. "I don't know, Percy. It's like they've cast me into some archaic drama. And Dorris, my older sister, she's 24. Why not her?" Claire's voice wavered with a mix of confusion and hurt.
Seeing Percy still in shock, Claire decided a reality check was in order. She playfully hit her on the head, snapping Percy out of her reverie. "Come on, Percy! We need to figure this out together."
As they engaged in a tough dialogue, Percy suggested leaving, an escape from the suffocating pressure. Claire hesitated, fear glinting in her eyes. "I can't, Percy. They have eyes on me. Leaving is not that simple."
Determined, Percy leaned in. "We can't let them dictate your life, Claire. We need a plan." Ideas swirled as they huddled together, two friends facing a storm. The weight of the impending marriage hung over them, but Percy's tenacity and Claire's resilience formed a bond stronger than the challenges they faced.
As Percy made her way through the crowded and dimly lit club, she could feel the pulsating beats of the music vibrating through the floor. The atmosphere was indeed heavy with a mix of laughter, chatter, and the rhythmic thumping of the music. Percy skillfully navigated through the dancing crowd, heading towards the restroom to take a moment for herself.
Claire, already a bit tipsy from the drinks, swayed slightly in her seat, feeling the effects of the alcohol. The club's neon lights reflected in her glass as she took a sip, watching the colorful dance floor. The memories shared with Percy brought genuine smiles to her face, and the laughter echoed in her ears.
Percy returned to find Claire in high spirits, her cheeks flushed from the alcohol. The two resumed their conversation, delving deeper into their pasts. Stories unfolded, secrets were shared, and bonds strengthened. The club's atmosphere seemed to transform into a haven for shared memories and newfound connections.
As the night progressed, the effects of the drinks weighed heavily on Claire. Percy, noticing her friend's condition, suggested they call it a night and find a cab. However, as Percy excused herself to once again navigate through the crowd, Claire found herself lost in the music and the vibrant lights.
Time passed, and Percy returned to find Claire in a joyous yet intoxicated state. Percy realized that Claire might need some assistance getting home safely. She gently guided her friend towards the exit, intending to hail a cab and ensure Claire's well-being.
A sleek car, a part of the Hale family fleet, pulled up to the curb. The driver, professional and courteous, stepped out to assist Claire. Percy and Claire exchanged a heartfelt goodbye, promising to meet again soon. Claire, with a slight stumble and a wave, got into the comfortable car.
Meanwhile, Percy made her way to her car. The night had been filled with camaraderie, and the memories created were sure to linger. Percy drove through the quiet city streets, the rhythm of the night still echoing in her mind.
As Claire was safely driven home by the Hale family driver, Percy navigated the familiar route to her residence. The night had been a blend of laughter, nostalgia, and shared experiences, and now it was time for each to continue their journey in the comfort of their own spaces.
The city's lights faded in Percy's rearview mirror as she headed home, the events of the night becoming a collection of stories to be treasured. The connection formed between Percy and Claire in that lively club would endure, and the echoes of their laughter would resonate in their memories for a long time to come.
Claire sat in the Hale family's luxurious car, the vehicle smoothly pulling up to the grand entrance of the Hale villa. A faint smile curled up on her lips, but it was a smile tinged with a mixture of nostalgia and pain. This elegant residence, with its opulent facade, held memories that stirred deep emotions within her.
As Claire stepped out of the car, her gaze swept over the familiar surroundings. The well-manicured gardens, the imposing architecture, and the memories of a past life flooded her mind. This was the very home that had once thrown her and her mother out, casting them into the cold and unforgiving night.
The memories rushed back vividly. Claire could recall the unbearable tension, her father's anger, and the rejection they faced just because her mother came from humble beginnings, working as a maid for the Hale family. The scene played out like a painful movie in her mind, the echoes of her father's shouts and Madam Felicia's disdain still haunting her.
As Claire stood on the threshold of the Hale villa, the contrast between the grandeur of the mansion and the hardships her family had endured struck her deeply. She remembered the desperation of seeking refuge under a bridge with her mother and three-year-old self on that cold, fateful night.
Tears welled up in Claire's eyes, streaming down her cheeks as the weight of those memories became overwhelming. The Hale villa, once a place of turmoil and heartbreak, now stood before her as a symbol of the stark divisions that life could impose. The complexity of emotions within Claire mirrored the tangled history she shared with this grand estate.
With a deep breath, Claire wiped away her tears, acknowledging the pain but also recognizing the strength that had carried her through those difficult times. As she walked towards the entrance, she carried with her not just the weight of the past but also the resilience that had shaped her into the person she had become. The Hale villa, with all its memories, was a chapter of her life that she had revisited, a chapter she could now close with a bittersweet acceptance of the journey she had traveled.
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Madfayewrite
Madfayewrite Hi readers please i don't post on weekends, just monday - friday, Saturday and sunday are out but moday is mass release...Thanks for reading.
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