Stolen Hearts

Chapter 3

Sarai gracefully made her way around the beautifully decorated buffet table, adorned with an array of delectable dishes. As she passed by, she couldn't help but overhear the excited chatter of the girls nearby. They were buzzing with anticipation for the evening, eagerly discussing their hopes of catching a glimpse of Quincy, the charismatic and charming heir to the family legacy.

Girl 1: "I can't believe Quincy will be here tonight! It's going to be so exciting!" Girl 2: "I know, right? I've been waiting for this moment for ages. He's so dreamy!" Girl 3: "Hey, don't forget about Manu! He's just as handsome and successful. I wouldn't mind him either."

The girls couldn't contain their admiration for Quincy and even mentioned that Manu, another equally attractive heir, would make a suitable partner for them. They marveled at the beauty and allure of both men, recognizing them as potential matches worthy of their attention.

Girl 4: "Both Quincy and Manu are such catch! They're stunning and heirs to the family fortune. Who wouldn't want that?"

Girl 5: "You know, it's kind of weird that Quincy is still not married at 36. Maybe something isn't working for him, if you know what I'm saying." Girl 6 (laughs): "Oh, come on! I don't know if I could ever give up sex for fame and fortune."

This comment sparked laughter among the group, with another girl jokingly pondering if she could ever give up her own sensual desires for fame and fortune.

Sarai, overhearing the conversation, couldn't help but chuckle and roll her eyes at the girls' audacity. She knew that speaking ill of the family in public could have serious consequences, especially with the ever-watchful eyes and ears of those around them.

"Hey, maybe we should watch what we say. You never know who might be listening. It's not wise to talk crap about the family."

"I didn't see anyone ask you, and who are you anyways?" one girl questioned.

"Listen, I'm just saying, you should also be mindful of the people waiting to get food. There is a line forming, and your gossip is holding it up," Sarai says.

"Of course, fatty would be complaining about not getting food quickly enough," the girl says.

"Is that supposed to make me feel bad or cry? Please, hunny, do better. I love myself and I said nothing rude towards you, just trying to help." Sarai says.

"Why are you here? How did you make the cut? Does your family work here? Did they give a servant's child some help for one night to grant you your pretend Cinderella moment?" the girl asks.

"Excuse me, but who are you? And why are you so interested in me? Not that it matters, I'm here whether you like it or not. And even all these poor servants here have more class and morals than you do on your pinky finger," Sarai says.

"I'm sorry, but what a pretty dress you have," a blond girl tells Sarai as she walks over.

Just as the tension was starting to dissolve, Sarai looked down and thanked her, a genuine smile crossing her face. But before she could fully appreciate the kind gesture, the girl accidentally spilled her drink, staining Sarai's dress in the process.

"What the hell? Are you serious? We're grown adults, for God's sake! Act like it!" Sarai yells.

Frustration and anger welled up inside Sarai as she yelled in disbelief. She couldn't fathom why grown adults would act so carelessly, causing unnecessary drama over a simple truth she had spoken. The girl who spilled the drink, now identified as Veronica Lamont, took a moment to revel in the chaos she had caused. With a smug look on her face, Veronica warned Sarai, as if asserting her own independence and superiority.