"Ughh… stupid alarm. Stop already. Let me sleep," Selen groaned, her voice muffled under the plush duvet.
But the household had its own rhythm, and her words meant little against the daily routine. The bedroom door swung open and three maids entered quietly, moving with synchronized precision. One crossed the room to pull back the velvet curtains. Golden sunlight spilled in, warm and unforgiving. Outside, birds chirped with irritating cheer, as if mocking her desire for a few more minutes of peace.
The other two maids glided to the bathroom, preparing her bath with practiced efficiency—rose-scented water, fluffy towels, and all the little luxuries Selen never asked for but had always known.
"Young mistress, your bath is ready," one announced softly.
Selen rubbed her eyes, then sat up suddenly as the thought struck her—today was her first day at NLGS. A wave of excitement surged through her, chasing away the remnants of sleep. She swung her legs off the bed and slipped into her oversized, fluffy pink slippers, dragging her feet toward the bathroom.
"Pancakes and freshly pressed apple juice for breakfast," she said over her shoulder, her voice lazy but firm. "And don't forget the syrup."
"Yes, young mistress," came the immediate reply.
After a hot bath that seemed to wash away not only the sleep but also her nerves, Selen stood in front of her closet. Hundreds of outfits stared back at her, but today she wanted something sharp, memorable. Something that whispered confidence without screaming arrogance.
At last, she settled on a white hoodie crop top, paired with a black short skirt that hugged her thighs just right. On her feet, she laced up gleaming white sneakers, and slung a black Chanel bag across her shoulder. She twisted her hair into a messy loose bun, strands falling naturally around her face. The look was simple yet striking.
She smirked at the mirror. Perfect. I'm ready.
Descending the grand staircase, she ignored the murmured greetings of servants lining the hall. Her focus was on the dining table, where a steaming breakfast awaited. But as she sat down, she noticed something missing.
"Where's Mom and Dad?" she asked absently, picking up her fork.
One of the maids bowed slightly before replying. "Young miss, they left on a business trip early this morning. They will be away for a month. They asked us to give you this."
On a silver tray lay two sleek black cards. "They said it has no limit," the maid added carefully.
For a brief moment, Selen's chest tightened. She had everything—a mansion, luxury, status. Everything except what she truly wanted: time with her parents. Sometimes, she envied children who complained about strict mothers or fathers who embarrassed them. At least those parents were present.
She forced a smile, covering the ache in her chest, and cut into her pancakes. She only managed a few bites and sips of juice before pushing the plate away. Appetite and excitement rarely walked hand in hand.
Grabbing her bag, she strode toward the garage. A fleet of polished cars gleamed under the bright lights, each one capable of turning heads on the street. She tapped her chin, weighing her options like a queen choosing a crown.
Finally, her gaze landed on the latest white Mercedes-Benz, sleek and flawless, practically begging to be driven.
"The Benz," she declared.
Her chauffeur immediately stepped forward, opening the back door for her with a slight bow. "As you wish, young mistress."
Sliding into the leather seat, Selen exhaled, her heart pounding with anticipation. This was it—the beginning of her new life.
The gates of No Law Guarding School awaited her.