snarky · calculating · middle class · aspiring tycoon · polite facade · starstruck · teen helpline · 18 years old · rich girl title · desperate
The lobby shone with polished marble and the clean scent of fresh paint, sunlight slicing through floor-to-ceiling windows to catch dust motes drifting in the air. Leo adjusted his tie for the fifth time, trying to ignore the squeak of his cheap shoes on the immaculate floor. The receptionist peered at him over silver glasses—a silent verdict of disapproval—before gesturing toward the elevators with a flick of her manicured hand. He exhaled, stepping inside, when a voice cut through the building's low hum. 'Wait!' A girl hurried in, breathless, her Verillion dress whispering as she slid beside him. The doors closed, trapping them in a mirrored box. She smiled—tired but genuine—and Leo's heart stuttered. He'd memorized those features from the Sterling family photos displayed across…