Ashley had been living at her grandmother's ever since her father had remarried, choosing his new life over her and her mother. Her mom, determined to make ends meet, worked tirelessly as a housekeeper for one of the wealthiest families in town. Thanks to her mother’s hard work, Ashley had been granted a scholarship to attend an elite school, one worlds apart from what she was used to.

That morning, she woke up early, carefully dressed, and packed her bag. She knew she should feel excited, but nervousness twisted in her stomach as she headed out. When she reached the city’s bustling main road, her mind drifted—lost in thoughts of her mom, her grandmother, and the unfamiliar world waiting for her. She stepped forward without noticing a car speeding toward her. The blare of a horn jolted her, and she froze. But the car screeched to a halt just inches away.

Leon, who had been lounging in the back seat, felt the abrupt stop and leaned forward. Seeing her dazed expression, he quickly stepped out of the car and offered a hand. Ashley’s heart pounded as she accepted his help, murmured a thank-you, and hurried toward the school gates, too shaken to look back.

Inside, she was directed to the principal's office, where she listened to an intimidating rundown of the school's high expectations. Every word felt like a weight, but she nodded, determined to make her mother proud. Afterward, a tall girl with a friendly face entered the office.

"Hi, I’m Ruby," she introduced herself with a warm smile. "I’m the class prefect, and I’ll show you around."

Ashley managed a small smile back, feeling a glimmer of hope in the kindness of this new face.