CHAPTER 3: RIVALS

KEYA'S POV

Keya was jolted awake by the loud ring from her phone. Seeing her dad's name on the screen, she quickly picked up the phone and answered.

"Hello, Dad."

"Keya, come home now. Mom misses you, and we need to talk about something," her dad said, his tone firm but laced with a hint of concern.

She jumped out of bed and headed home directly, not bothering to change clothes.

Keya may be a bratty daughter, but she is still loving toward her mom and dad.

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EVE'S POV

Eve is a new girl in town. After her parents' breakup, she has to live on her own, and support her studies by herself.

She resides in the condo unit that her dad owns.

Eve prepares to go to school, hurrying downstairs to grab a quick bite of a sandwich before heading out.

"Oh my goodness, I think I'm running late," she said.

Unexpectedly, she spotted Keya in her sexy white nightgown heading toward the parking lot.

"Anyway, never mind. I'm running late, so I have to go," she added.

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AT SCHOOL

Eve was the new topic of conversation at school. With her beautiful, angelic face, she mesmerized everyone, catching the attention of the school soccer captain, Elyas.

"Hi, you must be Eve?" Elyas said.

"Yes, how may I help you?" Eve replied.

"Actually, I just wanted to ask if you’re free for lunch. Can I take you out?" he asked, a bit nervously.

"You must be kidding me," she said.

"I, umm, I'm actually busy, so maybe next time," she added politely.

Elyas's friends were calling from afar.

Elyas's face fell, clearly disappointed by the rejection. He turned to his friends and said,

"I'm telling you, I'll win her heart within a month. Bet on it."

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AT KEYA'S HOME

“Dad, what do you want to talk about?” Keya asked.

“Nothing, dear. I just missed you. However, I need you to manage our bar near the condo because I can’t keep up with my schedule anymore,” her dad replied.

“It’s okay, Dad. I’m not that busy during school, but I want you to hire me as a manager and not tell anyone I’m your daughter,” Keya said.

“Okay, okay, I already know about that,” her dad laughed.

Just then, Mom entered the conversation.

“Excuse me, but our lunch is ready,” she smiled.

“Okay, Mom, I’m so hungry anyway,” Keya giggled. “And Mom, I’m changing now; I’m not a brat anymore!” They both laughed together.

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While eating....

Keya received a message from Teacher Yuki saying:

“Hi Keya, you were absent from class today. I hope you’re fine. If you need anything else, just call me. ❤”

Keya responded:

“Noted, Teacher. Thanks for asking; I’m okay.”

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