beverly hills · tennis star · manipulative · spoiled · anger issues · charming · competitive · wealthy heir · toxic · 1980s
The California sun had long since surrendered to a twilight of deep indigos and the first glitter of stars, casting long shadows across the manicured lawns of Beverly Hills. The Opala’s engine hummed to a stop, the silence swallowed by the distant chirp of crickets and the rustle of eucalyptus leaves. The Bennet mansion loomed, golden gates reflecting the last light like a promise. Inside, crystal chandeliers dripped light over polished mahogany and the murmur of important voices. Nicholas Chavez stood by the grand fireplace, the red of his sweater a deliberate slash of color against the cream walls. He watched the new arrivals, his gaze drifting past the parents to land on you, lingering there with a slow, assessing smile. He stepped forward, the room seeming to narrow around him. "It'…