Zia stood in front of the floor-length mirror in her spacious Manhattan apartment, adjusting the delicate straps of her designer dress. Her long, dark hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, framing her heart-shaped face. Her bright green eyes sparkled as she examined every detail, ensuring perfection.At twenty-three, Zia was the epitome of elegance and poise. Her petite frame belied a commanding presence, honed from years of navigating the city's fast-paced social scene. As the only daughter of Winter Axel, founder of Axel Real Estate and Construction, she'd grown accustomed to the finer things in life.Her mother's protective nature stemmed from her own tumultuous past. Winter had built a fortress around Zia, shielding her from the harsh realities she'd faced. But Zia knew the world beyond the gilded cage. As a social media influencer, she'd cultivated a persona that hid her introverted nature.Her phone buzzed, breaking the spell. Perach, her best friend, was waiting downstairs. Tonight was about letting loose, celebrating Zia's latest collaboration with a prominent fashion brand.With a final glance, Zia grabbed her clutch and headed out into the glittering Manhattan night.