Silver Lining ❥ daerin

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏: 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐥

ℭ𝔞𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔞

The sun had barely risen when I awoke, the soft hum of the estate's early morning activities already underway. Forbes Park was still bathed in the tranquil hues of dawn, the lush greenery and grand homes casting long shadows across the neatly paved streets. I pulled on my running shoes and ventured outside for a brief morning jog, savouring the calm before the world stirred to life.

Back home, the sprawling estate bustled with activity as usual. My parents' multimillion-dollar business, Avellino Enterprises, was a cornerstone of the city's economy, but at home, they were just Ma and Pa.
Despite their success, they'd always been more concerned with my well-being than with the grandeur of our lifestyle.

"Good morning, sweetheart," Mum greeted as I walked into the kitchen, her face lighting up with a warm smile. She was busy preparing breakfast for the family, her effortless grace a reminder of why she was so beloved in our community.

"Morning, Ma," I replied, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. I helped myself to a cup of coffee, appreciating the familiar scent that marked the start of another day.

Dad was already seated at the breakfast table, flipping through the financial reports with his usual intensity. He looked up and gave me a nod of approval. "How's the morning shaping up, Calista?"

"Busy, as always," I said, grabbing a slice of toast. "I've got errands to run and then I'll be heading over to the track later. Anything you need me to pick up or do?"

"Actually, yes," Dad said, setting aside the reports. "Could you stop by the office and drop off these documents? And if you have time, check in on the new project we're launching. It's been a while since we've had a chance to get your thoughts."

"Will do," I promised. "Anything else?"

Mum chimed in from the stove, "And if you could pick up some fresh flowers for the house, that would be lovely. I want to brighten up the living room."

"Got it," I said, mentally adding it to my list.

With breakfast finished and a quick hug goodbye, I made my way to the garage. My Pagani Huayra Codalunga, an embodiment of my love for precision engineering and speed, awaited me. The car was a testament to my passion for racing—though I never flaunted it. I knew the privilege that came with owning such a vehicle but chose to use it as a reflection of my hard work and dedication rather than a symbol of superiority.

As I maneuvered the Huayra out of the garage, I caught sight of the moving truck next door. The new neighbour was standing by the sidewalk, their eyes fixed on me. It was the same girl I had seen last night, her expression a mix of curiosity and irritation. I flashed a polite smile and revved the engine, enjoying the familiar rumble that signaled the start of my day.

The girl's reaction was clear—she was not impressed. I could see her mutter something under her breath, her gaze lingering with a hint of disapproval. I shrugged it off; everyone had their preferences.

As I drove down the street, I reflected on my family's expectations. They valued my academic achievements, but they allowed me to pursue my racing career as long as I kept it safe and respectful of others. It was a balance I worked hard to maintain. My parents were proud of my accomplishments, and they understood that racing was more than just a hobby—it was a part of who I was.

Pulling into the driveway of the office, I was greeted by the staff with warm nods and friendly smiles. "Morning, Calista," Mrs. Reyes, Da's secretary, said as she tidied up the front lobby. "How's your day shaping up?"

"Morning, Mrs. Reyes. It's going well so far. I've got a few errands to run and then I'll be back later. Everything alright here?"

"Everything's perfect, thank you," she said, her tone as reassuring as ever.