Sunlight flooded the grand foyer of the Williams mansion, spilling across polished marble floors and climbing the tall pillars like it owned the place. Athena stood stiffly beside Madeline and Natalie, the fabric of her new school uniform feeling unfamiliar against her skin. Everything felt unfamiliar lately.
Imelda faced them, posture straight, expression calm but not unkind. Her eyes lingered on Athena a moment longer than the others.
"Today is your first day at Natalie's school," she said, voice measured. "I expect you both to be calm, polite, and respectful. Try to get along with your classmates. Is that clear?"
Athena nodded immediately. "Yes, Grandma."
Imelda turned slightly. "And Natalie — look after your cousin."
Natalie scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Is she a baby?"
Before Athena could respond, Madeline stepped in smoothly, her smile warm and disarming. "Don't worry, Grandma. I'll stay with Athena."
Imelda's shoulders relaxed just a little. "Good."
The sound of an engine hummed outside, followed by footsteps. Brian appeared at the doorway moments later.
"The car is ready, ma'am."
Athena glanced outside — and froze.
A sleek black limousine sat in the driveway, gleaming obnoxiously under the sun.
Her brows knitted together. "Why that car?"
Brian cleared his throat politely. "Miss Natalie requested the most expensive one in the garage."
Athena turned slowly toward her cousin. "Are we going to school to learn… or to perform?"
Natalie smiled, smug and unapologetic. "You don't seriously expect me to arrive in something cheap."
"This is way too flashy," Athena muttered.
Natalie leaned closer, lowering her voice just enough to sting. "I wouldn't expect you to understand. You probably haven't ridden in anything like this before."
Athena stepped forward instinctively, anger flashing in her eyes — but Madeline's hand closed firmly around her wrist.
"Don't," she whispered. "Not worth it. Let's go."
Athena held Natalie's gaze for a long, burning second, then exhaled sharply and pulled away.
They climbed into the car in silence.
As the limousine rolled down the driveway, Imelda remained standing in the doorway, one hand pressed lightly to her chest. She watched until the vehicle disappeared beyond the gates, unease settling quietly in her bones.
Inside the car, the air was thick.
Athena stared out the window, jaw tight.
Natalie sat back comfortably, satisfied.
Madeline shifted between them, already sensing that this school wasn't just a new beginning.
It was a collision waiting to happen.