Secrets of the Solomons

15. Fiona:

*25 days prior to the attempted murder*

So today's my 18th birthday. Sure, it doesn't feel like it. It feels like chaos. My dad hired some servants a few days ago, but we still have our old butler, Mr.Mike. So that's good. But since today is my coming-of-age ceremony, the servants have been cleaning and decorating the house, backyard, etc. like crazy.

The butler seems like he'll faint at any moment, and everything must be perfect. Our new cook, on the other hand, seems as distressed as Mr.Mike. She has been cooking and preparing since sunrise.

As I make my way downstairs, I can't help but feel overwhelmed by the whirlwind of activity taking place in my home. The scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air, courtesy of the new cook's early morning preparations. I pause for a moment to admire the beautifully decorated foyer, adorned with flowers and intricate banners, to celebrate my special day. The servants scurry around, ensuring every detail is in place, and I can sense their anticipation and dedication to making this ceremony flawless. As I reach the bottom of the staircase, I take a deep breath, ready to embrace the chaos and excitement that come with turning eighteen. More chaos, I'd say.

I can see my siblings dressed up already and working on their phones. It annoys me how less they care about me the more I grow older. I haven't gotten dressed yet, so I don't let their lack of interest ruin my day. Instead, I look forward to tomorrow, when I can truly celebrate my birthday with my friends. I glance at my parents, who are busy organizing the final details and ensuring everything is perfect. They have been planning this event for months, and their efforts haven't gone unnoticed. Although I know they didn't arrange this out of the goodness of their hearts, I still feel a bit happy. Despite my siblings' indifference and my parents' lack of care for my feelings, I know that tomorrow will be a day filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments with friends who truly care about me. I am grateful for their presence in my life.

Soon, my father started yelling at me for not getting ready, as my relatives would start coming soon. He insults my appearance and scolds me while commanding me to get ready at once. The excitement and happiness I was feeling quickly faded away as my father's harsh words pierced through me. No matter how much I try to remain positive, his constant criticism and demeaning remarks always manage to dampen my spirits. I hurry to my room, fighting back tears, and force myself to get ready, hoping that once tomorrow comes I can find solace in my friends.

These walls of my "home" felt like prison once more. I longed for the freedom and comfort that awaited me outside. As I slipped on my favorite outfit and fixed my hair in the mirror, I couldn't help but imagine the laughter and carefree moments that awaited me outside these suffocating walls. The thought of being surrounded by my friends, who always knew how to lift my spirits, gave me a glimmer of hope. I knew that stepping out into the world would offer me a temporary escape from the constant criticism and demeaning remarks that haunted me at home.

God must've known today was the day I needed to look my best, as I looked perfectly fine despite not sleeping at night and eating a lot. I hadn't gained any eyebags or weight. Nor were there any pimples on my face. As I stared at my reflection in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence wash over me. Maybe today will be different. Maybe today I will be able to forget the hurtful words that echoed in my mind. With a smile tugging at the corners of my lips, I took a deep breath and prepared to step out into a world where my worth wasn't defined by someone else's cruel words but by my actions. I vowed to rise above the negativity and prove my true value.

I made my way downstairs yet again. As soon as I came down, I noticed my grandfather had arrived. That was odd; usually, he was the last to arrive. Curiosity sparked within me as I approached my grandfather, wondering what had brought him here so early. His eyes twinkled with a mischievous yet caring gaze as he enveloped me in a warm embrace.