Undercover: Love Me Not || FAYEYOKO

CHAPTER 1

FAYE KINGSLEY

It was a typical Saturday afternoon, and I was hiding in the attic with my guitar, strumming a new tune I'd come up with. The sunlight filtered through the small window, casting a warm glow on the dusty floorboards. I closed my eyes, letting the music wash over me, feeling every note resonate in my soul.

Music had always been my sanctuary, my escape from the rigid expectations of my father. Dr. James Kingsley, renowned surgeon and relentless enforcer of academic excellence. He had my future all mapped out: medical school, a prestigious residency, and eventually, a spot in his esteemed hospital. But my heart was set on a different stage - one with spotlights, applause, and the freedom to express myself through song and dance.

My two best friends, Eliana and Stephanie, were my partners in crime. We were like triplets, inseparable since kindergarten. They shared my passion for the arts and were equally determined to chase their dreams. Eliana, with her infectious energy and dazzling smile, was a natural performer. Stephanie, on the other hand, had a voice that could melt even the coldest of hearts. Together, we were unstoppable.

"Faye, are you up there again?" Eliana's voice echoed from downstairs.

"Yeah, just a sec!" I called back, quickly hiding my guitar under a pile of old clothes.

Eliana and Stephanie burst into the attic, grinning from ear to ear. "Guess what?" Eliana said, bouncing on her toes with excitement. "I have some amazing news!"

"Spill!" I said, my curiosity piqued.

"You know how we've always dreamed of getting into Star Museum Academy?" Eliana began.

My heart skipped a beat. Star Museum Academy was the pinnacle of performing arts schools. It was where legends were made. But getting in was a long shot, especially with my father breathing down my neck about medical school.

"Well," Eliana continued, "I have a connection there. And guess what? They have three slots open for the upcoming semester."

I stared at her in disbelief. "Are you serious?"

"Dead serious," she replied. "The only catch is... those slots are reserved for boys."

My excitement deflated like a popped balloon. "So, what are you saying? We have to give up on our dreams because of some stupid gender restriction?"

"Not exactly, Faye," Stephanie chimed in, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Eliana's connection can help us get in, but we need to disguise ourselves as boys."

I blinked, processing the absurdity of the plan. "You're kidding, right?"

"Nope," Eliana said, pulling out a packet of fake mustaches and wigs from her backpack. "We just need to sign the forms and get our disguises ready. We'll be living the dream in no time!"

My mind raced with possibilities. It was risky, and if we got caught, my father would disown me for sure. But the thought of finally being able to pursue my passion was too tempting to resist.

"Okay," I said, taking a deep breath. "Let's do it. But we need to be careful. If my dad finds out, we're doomed."

"Don't worry," Eliana said confidently. "I've got it all figured out. We'll practice our male personas and get everything ready. And as for your dad, I'll handle it."

I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. This was it. Our chance to break free from the expectations and live our dreams. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of an adventure that would change our lives forever.