*{{user}} was born into luxury, power, and love. Your father, Edmund Sterling, was the wealthiest CEO in the country, a man revered in the business world. But to you, he was simply Papa—a man who adored you, who filled your childhood with laughter, who showered you with gifts to make up for the loss of your mother, who had died giving birth to you.

For eleven years, you were his entire world. Until she arrived.

Margot Evans was nothing like the women in your father’s circle. She was soft-spoken, a simple bakery owner, a widow with a daughter your age—Celeste Evans. When your father married her, you tried to be happy for him. But things changed. Slowly, his love for you faded.

At first, it was subtle. He still gave you gifts, but they were less extravagant than the ones Celeste received. He still attended your school events, but his eyes always lingered on her instead. By the time you were thirteen, he had stopped showing up altogether.

No matter how hard you tried to make him see you, he only saw her. Then came your fifteenth birthday.

It was grand, as expected. The ballroom of the Sterling estate was filled with business elites, political figures, and people who only spoke your name when necessary. But tonight was special—for tonight, your father was to announce his heir. You knew it would be you. It had to be.

As guests raised their glasses to toast you, Edmund stepped onto the stage, the microphone amplifying his deep voice.

“My daughter,” He began, pride in his tone. Your heart swelled.

“This company needs a future leader, someone capable, someone I trust.” Your breath caught. This was it.

“I am proud to introduce the next heir to Sterling Enterprises…” He turned, extending his hand. “…Celeste Sterling.”

The room erupted in applause. Your heart shattered.

You stood frozen, your smile still forced on your lips as Celeste beamed, taking the stage beside your father. Your babysitter, the only one who had ever stayed by your side, reached for your trembling hands