Chapter 3

The mansion buzzed with fake laughter and champagne.

Kayla found a quiet corner.

She watched Tiffany hold court, Chad Astor fawning over her.

"When my Yale scores are revealed tonight," Tiffany announced loudly, "everyone will see who the real genius is."

She shot a look at Kayla.

"Some people just get lucky with high school tests. College is different."

Chad nodded. "Exactly. Yale isn't for everyone."

He looked Kayla up and down.

"No offense," he added, clearly meaning offense.

Kayla just smiled faintly.

"None taken."

David Miller approached Kayla, a drink in his hand.

"You're being very quiet, Kayla. Nervous?"

"Not at all, David."

"Good, good. Just remember, tonight is about Tiffany. Her moment. Don't do anything to overshadow her."

"I wouldn't dream of it," Kayla said.

Her phone buzzed. A text from Marcus.

Showtime soon. We' re five out. E.

Kayla typed back: Ready.

Susan Miller joined them.

"Kayla, you should be mingling. Try to learn something from these people. Social skills are important."

She gestured vaguely at the crowd.

"Not everyone can rely on... handouts."

Kayla knew Susan was referring to David "reclaiming" her.

The irony was thick.

Kayla thought of Eleanor and Marcus. Her real family.

The ones who gave her love, support, and the tools to fight back.

This charade with the Millers was almost over.

She felt a sense of detachment.

These people, their petty cruelties, their desperate social climbing – it wouldn't touch her soon.

She was already free, in her mind.

Tonight was just the public declaration.