In the quiet calm of my bedroom, I woke up abruptly, struggling for breath. The room, shrouded in shadows, provided no comfort as the remnants of a disturbing nightmare clung to me like a heavy blanket. The vivid memories of that unforgettable night at the club played in my mind with haunting clarity.
Fear coursed through me as the recollection of Anthonio's actions overwhelmed me, leaving me shaken in the aftermath of a distressing dream. The weight of his presence lingered, the chilling touch of his masked face haunting my thoughts.
As I tried to make sense of the dream and reality, beads of sweat trickled down my forehead. My rapid breaths broke the silence, contrasting sharply with the calm appearance of my surroundings. Moonlight seeped through the curtains, casting an otherworldly glow, but the tranquility was shattered by the lingering fear.
I grappled with the intense emotions stirred by the dream—a harsh replay of the Gala's traumatic events.
It's been a six months since we moved to Seattle, Washington. On my second day, I met my friends but.I haven't seen Anthonio. And I haven't heard any news about him, Isreal, or even Jason and Maria for the past one year. At least, I should be happy they're not in Seattle.
Yet, the nightmares of the Gala night persist, frustratingly. "When is this going to stop?" I sighed, hoping they would end once I get my revenge. That's it.
I got out of bed, slipped into my flip-flops, and headed to the ensuite bathroom to get ready for school.
*****
As the lecturer declared, "With that said, this will be the end of today's lecture," the phrase echoed through the class room
it's almost the only thing I heard throughout the whole lectures of the day my thoughts were elsewhere—lost in the grip of my past memories and haunting nightmares. As the lecturer exited, the room transformed into a cacophony of lively chatter.
"Guys, it's Styles Day!" exclaimed a girl, setting off waves of excitement. Some girls screamed with joy, while others danced in jubilation. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the commotion.
"If today is Styles Day, what am I going to wear to the concert?" lamented another girl. I scoffed inwardly.
Feeling detached, I quietly packed my things into my backpack and made my way out of the class.
As I strolled toward the gate, the sound of my name being called reached my ears. I turned to find Michelle and Hailey catching up, wearing matching outfits and ready to engage in their usual banters
"Ali... I'm so happy," Michelle exclaimed
"And why?" I frowned.
My gaze shifted from their makeup to the coordinated ensembles they wore, shaking my head afterward.
"We're taking you out for shopping," Hailey grinned.
"You guys look horrible in those matching outfits, please," I said with a tone of disgust.
"We know you have a bad taste when it comes to fashion," Mitchell retorted.
"Yeah, you're right, science students don't know anything about fashion," Hailey nodded in agreement. "Apart from the white coats they always wear," Michelle added with a laugh.
"Alright, fashionistas," I rolled my eyes sarcastically with a huff.
"We're going shopping, and we're taking you along," Hailey grinned.
"No, I'm not out of clothes," I replied, walking. Hailey exchanged a look with Michelle, and they burst into laughter.
"Oh, honey, it's not about running out of clothes. It's about upgrading your wardrobe for the concert tonight," Michelle explained with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Concert? What concert? I'm not interested" i said angrily
"It's October 16!!!" Mitchell and Hailey screamed happily
"And so? What is wrong with you two?" I yelled, my eyes widening in disbelief
"It's Israel Styles' day!!!" they both exclaimed in unison, their excitement contagious
"Israel Styles is back!!!" Mitchell and Hailey screamed "And his concert tonight will be a banger," Michelle said, her eyes shining with anticipation
"He's back, his concert tonight is going to be epic!" Hailey added, her eyes gleaming with anticipation
Israel Styles, the epitome of popularity, youth, and wealth, reigns as the most celebrated and most wealthy pop up musician, not just within the country's borders but extending his influence to many others countries worldwide.
The entire nation venerates him like a deity, captivated by his charisma and admired by multitudes.
Rumors circulated that people couldn't touch him, except for his family, adding an air of mystery. As the heir to Everflow PetroCorp, an oil company owned by his father
His dreamy presence had the power to make ladies swoon but definitely not some one like me, I hate the present of guys around me especially someone like Isreal who is popular and makes the headline everyday, plus I heard he is a flirt It created an aura of charm that surrounded him.
he's irresistible and epitomized every lady's ideal man but definitely not some one like me. I hate celebritries now and I believe they opress others with their influence
Owning a music record label named "SYLES NATION" with over twenty singers, Israel Styles had carved his name as one of the most popular and prominent figures in the country's music industry.
Despite his youth, he had already accumulated over twenty awards worldwide, earning him the title of the country's pride.
His contributions to the country's music scene were so significant that he had a designated special day on October 16.
Every 16th October turned into a public holiday, solely dedicated to celebrating his name and achievements. The anticipation surrounding this day echoed across the whole of Seattle, reflecting the magnitude of Israel Styles' impact
The whole Washington will be there and you're coming with us ."Hailey said confidently
You wish…" I scoff as I continue walking
You're going Alison please.." Michelle said
I said no!!" I screamed and they halt on their track and stared at me like they saw something monsterous
Why???" That screamed back in unison and scoffs before turning back to them as they stopped walking
Have you forgotten… last year I went to Anthonios party because of you and I ended up…" my words hang in my throat as I realized I was about saying it in public, I felt bad remembering the horrible night and tears welled up in my eyes
Have you?" I asked amidst tears in a tone more like a whisper cry, it hurts each time I remember the night, the night I lost my innocent
Their expressions changed into a sad one and I could see guilt written all over their expressions
On that night Hailey and Michelle persuade me to the party in attempt to cheer me up from the heartbreak I know it's not their fault and I feel bad for making them feel guilty they were only trying to help me out of the funk Jason had put me
Alison…" Hailey called her eyes betrayed guilt I wipe my tears and made to walk out when Michelle held my arm I didn't turn back as I only stopped walking
"you can't let that define you you're only making us feel guilty for trying to help" She said with concern
We took you there against your will and we're really sorry" She added in a considerate tone
I just wanna go home" I replied and pulled away from her
We'll go with you…" Hailey said and I shrugged
How about we stay at home with you since your father isn't around" Michelle asked
You guys not going to celebrate your styles day again" I ask as I walk
Not without you.." Hailey cut in
I don't want to be the reason why you'll miss styles concert and miss the fun" I said simply
We could do some crazy pool party" Hailey screamed not minding if other students were watching
Yeah …a mini pool party will be more fun than the concert..whoo!! Let's go" Michelle screamed and began dragging me towards my car where Aleric is waiting for me
Mich! I shouted and pull away,
I smiled at her crazy display as I walked to the car with them infront
Let's go swim …" Hailey said and hopped inside my car
Michelle joined her inside my car, I shook my head and joined them.
***
We navigated the sleek Rolls-Royce sweptail car through the bustling streets of Seattle as we danced to a song by Isreal styles
Whoo!!
Michelle shouted as she move crazily to the song while I laughed at their escentry display and Aleric shook his head while watching us through the rear view
Passing through the iron gates the mansion emerged- a partial resident, upon arrival I saw the Workers outside await by the entrance. I frown at the looks on their face creating an unspoken tention in the air
What's going on " I ask immediately I stepped out of the car Why are you all outside" I asked
Boss is back and ask everyone to stay outside till you're back" my heart skips at the mention of my father, I thought it was a a month trip and I would have the mansion to my self for the whole month and don't have to see the ruthless father of mine.
Alison…"Michelle walked up to me
You guys can attend the concert" I said
We're not leaving we'll be in your room or outside" Hailey smiled at me and they went to my En-suite through the backyard
I sighed and cautiously approach the door and gently pushed open the door to see my father seated in the living room on the two-seater Blue fluffy couch with his leg propped up on the table folded with malicious care leaning back on the couch headrest, he was reading a newspaper with his glasses perched on his nose
Inwardly I prayed a testament to the fear that his presence instilled
good evening, Father," I greeted in a friendly yet professional tone, skillfully balancing professionalism with warmth to create a positive and approachable atmosphere.
Fidgeting with my nails, i anxiously awaited his next words
Why are you just coming back?" I flinched when he drops the newspaper noisily on the table sitting up properly
Umm… " I stuttered not knowing what to say, his every gesture exude an air of authority that further intensified the atmosphere of respect and fear in the room
Aleric.."he called
Sir.. Aleric portrait and walk close to him
Excuse us.." my father said and Aleric nodded before leaving the sitting room
"You should know I cut short my trip because of something…and I'm sure you know why I came back" his cold inquiry sliced through the air like a chilling breeze
I arched my brow in confusion utterly unaware of the nature of his inquiry
Umm…no" I hated the fear he always inflicted on me
"You don't? He asked with a slight smirks then sit" he command
I cautiously approach the couch next to his and sits then he continues without a glance on my way
"If you must know, Mr Montgon's son is back and you know what that means" he said and I furrowed my brows in confusion what is he talking about and who is Mr Montgon and the significance of his son's return?" I thought inwardly
In a moment of clarity the puzzle pieces click into place and my eyes widened at the realization
"What the pact the deal" I screamed inwardly with wide eyes and suddenly the significance of Mr Montgon's son loomed over me like a storm cloud, I could have I have forgotten that
Father … I called in disbelief
I'm sure you remember the marriage deal…be prepared"