BE MY OBSESSION

CHAPTER 3

•SHELBY•

I own five condominiums, three apartments, one estate, and two penthouses. Despite having the freedom and opportunity to move out, I made a conscious decision to continue living at my parent's house. Why? 

Because, unlike Shawn, who also possesses numerous properties and the liberty to leave without any scrutiny from our parents, I crave the profound love, appreciation, and respect that he receives from our family due to his significant contributions.

I yearn for that.

I desire to bask in the same spotlight that he enjoys, to receive that special attention reserved for him whenever he returns home, and to develop a similar intimate bond with our mother. Above all, I long for them to perceive me differently now.

I am the one who has assumed Shawn's role. I have taken control, ready to emulate his achievements without hesitation. I want it all.

Although it may take time for my family to see me in this new light, I refuse to leave the house until that happens. I will stay and ensure they forget about Shawn, accept that he is gone and will never return, and recognize that I am the only one they can rely on.

OoO

I parked my car on the driveway near the elegant fountain adorning the front of the house. Stepping out of the vehicle, I gracefully slung my handbag over my arm and draped my blazer across the other before making my way inside.

My father has become increasingly stringent when it comes to family gatherings. Whether it be for momentous occasions, business conferences, or even ordinary family dinners, we must maintain the illusion of being the perfect family.

With Shawn's recent news still making headlines, the press is eagerly waiting for any slip-up to pounce on us.

Moreover, as our company faces its own financial challenges, my father believes that upholding the facade of a perfect family will keep the press at a safe distance.

That's why he insists on having everyone present for dinner at home. Although Shanelle's modeling career keeps her frequently away, she rarely misses these gatherings unless Dad has important news to announce.

For now, it's just my parents, Shay, and me. Despite Shay being engaged and preparing for her upcoming wedding, she continues to reside with us, awaiting her ticket to freedom.

It's no secret that she has yearned to leave from the beginning. However, being the youngest in the family, my father still finds utility in keeping her close.

Entering the dining room, I discovered the maids still setting the table, with no sign of my parents or Shay. I retraced my steps and headed outside, making my way to my private study, which now occupies the room that used to belong to Shawn.

He had insisted on an external study, requiring space and privacy. It was one decision of his that I genuinely appreciated, especially now that I reap the benefits in his absence.

Unlocking the door, I entered the room and casually placed my belongings on the couch. Walking towards the drink cabinets, I prepared a drink, dropping a few ice cubes into the glass and pouring a modest amount of whiskey.

As I took a sip, my phone interrupted the tranquil atmosphere. I sauntered across the room to retrieve it from my handbag, a smile spreading across my face as I recognized the caller.

"Diamonds are a girl's best friend, aren't they?" Becky chimed in with her cheerful voice.

"Sometimes. Please tell me you're not planning another scandalous news story by traveling across the country to purchase diamonds from an Arabian thief."

She let out an exaggerated gasp.

"Never! Although the scandalous idea does sound tempting."

Chuckling, I shook my head in amusement.

Becky Levin, my closest friend since college, hails from a wealthy family involved in various real estate ventures. Besides that, she owns and designs her own jewelry line. The girl had been obsessed with diamonds and golds ever since she was a baby because she practically grew up wearing them in her sleep.

"What are the diamonds for?" I inquired, curiosity piqued.

"I'm creating a new necklace as a birthday gift for Mom."

I scoffed playfully, taking a seat on the couch and crossing my legs.

"Your mother already possesses an abundance of them. I bet she even hides some beneath her pillow to capture good dreams or something."

"True, but those were self-purchased. This one is a gift from the depths of my heart."

Smiling, I took another sip from my glass. My gaze shifted outside as movement caught my eye, and I reclined my head to peer through the window. Instead of Shay, one of the housemaids appeared at the doorway, causing my body to relax.

I had anticipated Shay's arrival.

She frequents this area more than I prefer, despite her claims that it still reminds her of Shawn. From the beginning, I made it clear that this space is now mine, and I won't tolerate anyone entering whenever they please.

"Miss, dinner is ready. They're waiting for you," the maid informed me, and I acknowledged her with a nod.

Leaving my empty glass on the table, I refocused my attention on the ongoing phone call.

"Hey Bec, I have to go. I'll call you tomorrow, alright?" I heard her sigh in response.

"Okay. Have fun with that drama."

Rolling my eyes, I ended the call. With a frustrated sigh, I exited the room, ready to confront the real drama that was about to unfold within the confines of the house.