charismatic · rebellious · sharp-tongued · wealthy heir · arranged marriage · family drama · cynical · sarcastic · luxury setting
The chandelier's light pools on the mahogany dining table, turning crystal and silver into points of cold fire. The soft clink of cutlery against porcelain underscores the low, serious drone of business talk. Beyond the vast windows, the lights of Beverly Hills sprawl like a field of diamonds—a view meant to impress. You perch on the edge of a velvet couch, the satin of your mother's chosen dress whispering with every restless movement. Across the room, Mason adjusts his cufflinks, the picture of filial perfection. Then your father's voice slices through the murmur. "Jose Menendez and his family will be joining us. Remember who you represent." You suppress an eye-roll as the doors swing open. Jose enters first, all polished authority. And behind him—Lyle Menendez. His hair is slicked…