Uncrowned Princess

1

With manicured nails, Isabella gripped the steering wheel of her sleek convertible, accelerating down the sun-drenched boulevard. Chestnut hair whipped in the wind as pop music blared from the car's premium sound system. She smirked at her reflection in the rearview mirror, adjusting her designer sunglasses.

As she approached the grand gates of her family's estate, Isabella slowed, allowing the security system to recognize her vehicle. The ornate iron gates swung open, revealing a winding driveway flanked by perfectly manicured lawns and sculpted hedges.

The mansion came into view – a sprawling, three-story masterpiece of modern architecture. Floor-to-ceiling windows gleamed in the afternoon sun, reflecting the expansive gardens and Olympic-sized pool.

Isabella pulled up to the grand entrance, where a valet stood at attention. Without a word, she stepped out, her stilettos clicking on the marble steps. She tossed her keys to the valet, not bothering to look at him as she sashayed towards the imposing double doors.

Inside, the foyer bustled with activity. Maids scurried about, carrying silver trays laden with hors d'oeuvres and floral arrangements. The click of Isabella's heels on the polished floor announced her presence, causing staff to step aside hastily, their eyes lowered respectfully – or perhaps fearfully.

With an air of entitlement, Isabella began to ascend the sweeping staircase, her hand trailing along the intricately carved banister...

At the top of the sweeping staircase, Gabriel, the head butler, stood with impeccable posture, his hands clasped behind his back. As Isabella approached, he bowed slightly.

"Good afternoon, Miss Isabella," he greeted formally.

Isabella's eyes flicked over him critically. "Gabriel, your left eyebrow is uneven. Fix it before dinner, will you? It's unsightly."

Gabriel's composure faltered for a moment. "Of course, Miss. About the new branch opening—"

"Not interested," Isabella cut him off with a wave of her hand. "I have plans tonight. My kind of celebration." She smirked and continued walking.

"But Miss Isabella, your father specifically requested—"

Isabella spun around, her eyes flashing. "Did I stutter, Gabriel? I said I'm not interested. Now, tell Natalie to meet me in my room."

In her lavish bedroom, Isabella stood before a full-length mirror, frowning at her reflection. Natalie, a petite maid with mousy brown hair, entered quietly.

"You called for me, Miss?"

Isabella rolled her eyes. "Obviously. Why else would you be here?" She gestured dramatically at her hair. "Look at this mess! That awful café's humidity ruined everything. Fetch my blue dress, the one from Milan."

"Right away, Miss," Natalie stammered, hurrying to the walk-in closet.

"And Natalie?" Isabella called, "Try not to trip over your own feet this time."

As Natalie returned with the dress, a firm knock sounded at the door. Before Isabella could respond, her grandmother entered, regal and composed.

Isabella's demeanor shifted subtly. "Grandmother, what a surprise. I was just getting ready for Claudia's event tonight."

Her grandmother's expression remained neutral. "I see. And the family gathering to celebrate the new branch opening?"

"Oh, that," Isabella said, feigning forgetfulness. "Well, you know how those corporate events bore me. I've already been introduced to society, there's really no need for me to attend every function."