BE MY OBSESSION

CHAPTER 1

•SHELBY•

One of the things I truly enjoy about being in control is the ability to turn the impossible into reality. Having the power to get what I want, be where I want, and speak my mind freely is a significant advantage.

My brother, Shawn, used to caution me about the potential pitfalls of being in control for too long. He believed it could lead to feeling overwhelmed and making regrettable decisions. However, I am not like him.

That's where our differences lie. He values considering the consequences, while I do not.

In situations where quick decisions with high stakes must be made, even if lives are on the line, I act without hesitation. Weighing the pros and cons tends to hinder progress and result in making the wrong choice.

That's not my approach.

I simply do what needs to be done and deal with the consequences later.

In fact, sticking to that mindset earned me Shawn's position in the company a year ago, thanks to my father. Personally, it took a lot of convincing, but in the realm of business, things operate differently.

My father values skills and capabilities above all else. If you can't handle both, you're insignificant in his eyes. He used to view my younger sister Shay in that manner until she joined the company. That girl could've fooled anyone with how she lazes around with everything handed to her on a silver platter but, once she stepped into the office, her business acumen proved otherwise.

That's the one thing I appreciate about her.

It's interesting how she's getting married while my other sister, Shanelle, and I are focused on our careers and personal lives. That sets Shay apart from us. When she sets her mind on something, she relentlessly pursues it, defying anyone who tries to sway her decision—even our parents.

The girl is like what, 21? 25?

Shawn and Shay were an inseparable duo in the family, always looking out for each other. Now that Shawn is dead, I wonder how he would react to his favorite sister's sudden engagement.

Too soon? Well, the little brat is not so little anymore.

OoO

Entering the building's front entrance, my presence immediately caught everyone's attention. The resounding click of my heels on the polished floor filled me with a surge of confidence.

Taking in the busy lobby, I observed employees hurrying to their tasks, janitors diligently cleaning, and others idly scrolling on their phones. Some individuals gathered by the elevator, visibly tensing as I passed by.

I relish the effect I have on people.

That's what I find gratifying about being in control and wielding more power than all of them combined.

Stepping into my designated elevator, I pressed the button for the 17th floor. The doors closed swiftly, granting me a moment of solitude. Retrieving my phone from my handbag, I dialed my secretary, Adam, who answered within seconds.

"Cancel the appointment with Spark Agency. I've found a better ad company to handle our cosmetics campaign. Inform the Executive Director to gather her team in my meeting room within the hour. We'll discuss the details there."

Ending the call, I returned my phone to my bag. The elevator halted on my floor, and as I exited, I spotted Adam at his desk, finishing a phone call.

Upon seeing me, he promptly hung up and hurried to my side, concern etched on his face.