Chapter 1
KALEB'S POV:♡
I stepped out of the sleek black SUV and onto the scorching pavement, the sun's rays slapping me in the face like a hot palm. Sunshine Villa.
The name was ironic, considering the gloomy feeling that settled in the pit of my stomach. Dad's business had brought us here, to this...place. I couldn't help but feel like a pawn in his game of corporate chess. Again.
As the driver handed me my backpack, I caught a glimpse of the sprawling mansion behind me. Our new home. I sighed inwardly. Growing up in a wealthy family had its perks – luxurious vacations, designer clothes, and the best education money could buy – but it also came with its fair share of expectations. My three older brothers had all excelled in their respective fields, and now it was my turn to make Dad proud.
I glanced down at my outfit, a casual yet stylish ensemble courtesy of Mom's favourite designer. She was big on appearances, and I had learned to dress the part. My long, dark hair was tied back in a neat ponytail, and my makeup was subtle yet polished.
As I walked towards the entrance, Mom emerged from the doorway, a warm smile on her face. "Kaleb, darling! Welcome home. How was the ride?"
I forced a smile, feeling a pang of guilt for not being more enthusiastic. "Hey, Mom."
The interior of the house was sleek and modern, with marble floors and crystal chandeliers. Our family had always lived in an aristocratic style, but sometimes I felt like I was living in a museum rather than a home. I trailed behind Mom as she showed me to my room, which was decorated in my favourite shades of purple and grey.
I dumped my bag on the bed and walked over to the window, staring out at the unfamiliar surroundings. Sunshine Villa was supposed to be a great estate to live in, with good schools and a strong sense of community. Maybe this move wouldn't be so bad after all. I just seem to prefer living in the capital than this high end neighbourhood.
A faint knock on the door broke the silence. "Kaleb, come downstairs. We're having lunch," Mom called out.
I followed the aroma of food to the dining room, where Dad was already seated. He smiled, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Hey, kiddo. Are you excited about your first day at Sunshine Villa High tomorrow?"
I shrugged, taking a seat. "It's just school. There's nothing to fuss about."
Dad launched into a conversation about his business dealings, and I zoned out, my mind wandering to the new school and the unknown faces I'd meet tomorrow. My brothers would be thrilled to know I was already stressing about fitting in.
Harold, the eldest, would probably lecture me about being strong and independent. James, the charmer, would try to sweet-talk me into feeling better. And Jeremy, the tech whiz, would...well, Jeremy would probably just tease me mercilessly about being a "newbie."
As lunch drew to a close, I felt a sense of trepidation building inside me. This was my life now. Sunshine Villa, a new school, new friends...and maybe, just maybe, a chance to start over.
Little did I know, my life was about to take a dramatic turn, one that would change everything...