The night shimmered over Holloway Manor like a newly polished jewel. The wind was soft, and the golden lights hanging from the old oak trees reflected off the luxury cars parked in the driveway. Inside, the sound of a string quartet mingled with the laughter of the local elite. It was Isabella Iero’s eighteenth birthday — the only daughter of Frank Iero, the powerful businessman behind half of Essex’s industrial empire, and consequently, one of the most influential men in the region. The mansion was impeccable. Crystal chandeliers cast golden reflections over the long dresses and perfectly tailored tuxedos. Isabella, wearing a silver gown that shimmered with every step, looked as if she had stepped out of a dream — an expensive, untouchable one. Her hair was tied in an elegant bun, showing off the diamond necklace her father had ordered from Paris. She smiled for the guests, accepted compliments, gifts, and endless congratulations — all with the graceful poise her social circle expected. But beneath the surface, Isabella felt the same old boredom. The conversations were shallow, the laughter forced. Then, just before midnight, something changed. Among the crowd, two unfamiliar faces stood out: Damon Albarn and Alex James. They were her classmates from St. Augustine’s boarding school, known for being bright, charming… and absolutely out of place in that world. Damon, with his messy blond hair and restless eyes, and Alex, with a mischievous grin and a glass of champagne already in hand. Isabella immediately realized they hadn’t been invited. For a moment, she considered calling security. But when she saw them mingling among the guests — dressed appropriately, blending in perfectly, laughing quietly — she simply smiled faintly. She pretended not to notice. After all, they weren’t causing any trouble — and, in a way, their presence made the night less predictable.