As a daughter of the Longstaff family, Kate had to be perfect in every way—smart, beautiful, and successful. She grew up believing it was in her blood to be the best. But just before making a decision that would shape her entire future, a homeless man revealed that her whole life had been a lie.
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As the first rays of sunlight slipped into her room, Kate’s eyes fluttered open. Her morning began like it did every day—with purpose, precision, and order.
She quickly got out of bed and made it perfectly, smoothing each corner and fluffing each pillow until it looked flawless.
In her pristine room, every item was in its rightful place, from her books aligned on the shelf to the shoes organized by color and size.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
Today, she opted for a tailored navy-blue blazer and skirt with a crisp white blouse.
She pinned back her hair, making sure not a strand was out of place. She looked at herself in the mirror, assessing her reflection critically.
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Her parents would approve. Today, of all days, she needed to look her best.
When she entered the kitchen, her parents, Julia and Charles, were already seated, their backs straight and their expressions as calm and composed as ever.
For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
They were already halfway through their breakfast, everything laid out in precise order—scrambled eggs, toast, fruit, and coffee.
The Longstaff family didn’t do anything halfway. They lived by schedules, routines, and perfection.
As Kate joined them, her mother, Julia, cast a quick glance at her.
“Kate, after breakfast, check for stains on your clothes and adjust your makeup,” Julia said smoothly, her eyes barely lifting from her plate. “It’s a bit… bold for today.”
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For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney
“Yes, Mother,” Kate replied, not daring to argue. She picked up her fork, though her stomach was tight with nerves.
Today, she would be meeting with the board of directors.
She could feel the pressure of her family’s expectations weighing on her, as if their gazes were on her every step. Everything she did would reflect on the Longstaff family.
