Remiri had always been good at reading the room. Tonight, the air was heavier than usual, charged with whispers and side-eyes that followed her every step. She wore a silk dress that clung to her frame, curls cascading in perfect spirals, and that familiar smile—the smile that made people love her, hate her, crave her. She felt the weight of their stares, but as always, she pretended not to care. Inside, she did care—but only enough to keep control.
Elise sat at the far end of the lounge, glass in hand, her almond eyes fixed on Remiri. She told herself she wasn't jealous, but her thoughts betrayed her. She's mine. She chose me first. She let me in when she doesn't let anyone in. But then Meera walked in, dripping wealth and confidence, and Elise's chest tightened. Everyone noticed Meera, but Elise noticed the way Remiri's gaze flickered when she saw her. No. Not her. Anyone but her.
Meera, on the other hand, thought in sharper edges. She was used to ownership, to possession. Money bought her loyalty, beauty, respect—but not Remiri. That's what intrigued her. The woman was impossible to pin down. She's not chasing my wealth. She doesn't want my power. She just… wants fun. But she'll come back. She always comes back. Because she likes the way I make her lose control, even if she won't admit it.
The three of them collided near the bar. Elise spoke first, her voice cool but her hands tightening around her glass. "Didn't know you'd be here, Meera." Her thoughts screamed louder: Stay away from her. You don't know her like I do. You'll never know her like I do.
Meera's smirk was subtle, practiced. "Didn't know I needed to announce myself." Her thoughts, sharper still: So this is the jealous one. Cute. But she's already lost.
Remiri sipped her drink, pretending to be unbothered. Inside, she felt the tension weaving around her, pulling tighter with every glance. They both want me. They both think they can claim me. But no one owns me. I choose. Always.
The silence between them thickened until Elise snapped. "Everyone talks about her, you know," she said, tilting her head toward Remiri. "But none of them really understand her. I do." Her heart hammered. Please, Remiri. Pick me. Not her.
Meera didn't flinch. "Understanding is overrated. She doesn't need someone to read her—she needs someone to match her. And I do." Her lips curved into a slow smile. And I won't let a girl like you stand in my way.
Remiri set her glass down, dimples flashing as she leaned forward. Her voice was soft but final. "You two can argue all night if you want. But don't forget—I'm the one you're fighting over. And I don't like being fought over." Her gaze slid from Elise to Meera, sharp and knowing. If they think they can control me, they'll learn the hard way. I am not the prize. I'm the fire.
The air between them burned hotter. Elise's chest rose with unspoken rage. Meera's smirk only deepened. And Remiri—she sat there calm, flawless, untouchable. But inside, she could feel the storm building.