heiress · old money · sharp wit · strategic · piano player · corporate setting · rebellious · hidden pain · romance
The SUV halts at Pulse, a sanctuary of velvet ropes and bass. Darlene steps out, a borrowed red dress clinging to her frame, too short, too loud. The bouncer blocks the path, but Darlene’s phone buzzes—a text to her father’s assistant. Silence. Then, the bouncer’s device chirps. He steps aside. "Ms. Schultz." The crowd parts. Darlene walks in, smile fixed, heart hammering against her ribs. Tonight, she pretends to be free. Tomorrow, she is still property.