Miss nobody strikes back

Party.

Claire’s POV

Now, this is more like it—finally, the house is free of Hanna. I don't know why, but I can’t stand her presence. Everywhere she goes, it’s like she’s trying to prove how perfect she is. The worst part? She’s actually smart—like, really smart. And I’m... well, I’m not exactly known for my academic skills.

I know that if it weren’t for my looks, charm, and my ability to play the helpless daughter, my parents would be all over her. They’d gush about how amazing Hanna is, and I can’t let that happen. I’m supposed to be their one and only daughter, not this unwanted extra. How we ended up as two is beyond me, but my plan to get rid of her? It’s definitely going to work.

The first step? I stole her stupid boyfriend. Shane was the dumbest guy I’ve ever met, honestly. He became obsessed with me the second he laid eyes on me. The truth is, I’m only dating him to rub it in Hanna’s face and because he's rich—nothing else. I’ve also managed to get my parents wrapped around my finger. Poor Hanna doesn’t even know what's coming.

I made my way downstairs, ready for the evening ahead. My friends were throwing a party at a newly opened club, and of course, I was invited. Ever since I became part of the popular crowd in our class, I’ve been living the high life. All thanks to my beauty and, well, a few other things I can offer. It was easy to fit in with them, and they’re all so dumb. But the best part? They’re rich. Filthy rich.

I’ve got those girls buying me anything I want, and they don’t even realize it. I’m so grateful I got into that school—now I’m popular with a killer wardrobe. Shane was supposed to pick me up at 6:00 PM, but as usual, he's late.

I glanced in the mirror one more time, admiring my reflection. I was dressed in a tight, black denim skirt, a black tank top, and a mini jacket. My blonde hair fell loosely around my face, and I topped it off with a pair of black heels. My outfit was, without a doubt, a solid ten out of ten.

As I was checking my lipstick in the mirror, my mom appeared. “Claire, wow! What’s the occasion? You’re all dressed up,” she asked, eyeing me up and down.

“I’m going to a party with Shane and my friends,” I replied, still focused on my reflection as I added more lipstick.

“Oh, I didn’t know. Well, don’t stay out too late, okay? Be home by eight,” she said, her overprotective tone creeping in. Gosh, she can be so annoying sometimes.

“Mum, it’s a freaking evening party. How do you expect me to be home by eight?” I snapped, giving her an exasperated look. She was about to protest when the doorbell rang.

“That must be Shane. I’m leaving,” I said, grabbing my bag and walking toward the door.

“Don’t stay out too late!” she called after me.

“Don’t expect me,” I muttered under my breath, slamming the door behind me.

“Wow, babe, you’re looking so hot,” Shane said as his eyes roamed over my body. God, can he not just chill? Yeah, I know I’m gorgeous, but still. He walked up to me, wrapping his arms around my waist, his hands moving up and down my back. I pushed him away gently.

“You’re late, Shane. You know how much I hate that,” I said, making my way to his shiny new sports car.

“I’m sorry, babe. I had to get this baby cleaned. Doesn’t she look pretty?” Shane said, patting his car with pride.

“Baby? I didn’t know you had a new girlfriend,” I retorted sarcastically. “Seems like you’re more into your cars these days.”

He immediately got defensive. “No way, you’re my one and only, babe. I can’t let you go.”

“Prove it,” I challenged, raising an eyebrow. Shane stepped closer, pulling me into a tight embrace. “I love you—my soul, my body, my car, and most especially, my lips belong to you,” he murmured, then kissed me. His lips pressed harder, and his hands roamed down my back. He started pulling off my jacket, but I pulled away.

“Babe, come on,” he whined, clearly disappointed.

“You’ve ruined my lipstick, and now we’re going to be late. Get driving,” I commanded, and he hurried to obey, slipping into the driver’s seat.

The club was packed when we arrived—dim lights, pounding music, and neon highlights everywhere. It was a total vibe.

“Hey, Chloe! I’m loving this party!” I shouted over the music, spotting Chloe among the crowd. She was the one who invited us. Besides being the head of our school’s elite group, she was filthy rich. I stuck to her like glue, and it’s paid off. Thanks to her, I get VIP access to everything.

“Claire, you look stunning! You’ve got great fashion sense,” Chloe complimented me, eyeing my outfit. I smiled, enjoying the attention.

“Thanks, Chloe. You look amazing too,” I replied, and she beamed.

“Well, since everyone’s here, let’s get this party started!” she cheered, and the whole crowd erupted into excitement.

We were served some gourmet meals and, of course, drinks. It was my first time trying alcohol, and let me tell you, the first sip felt like fire racing down my throat. I coughed, struggling to catch my breath, and Shane patted my back, amused.

“Aww, she’s a beginner! Welcome to the club, Claire,” Sophia teased, and the others laughed and cheered. I forced a smile, though the alcohol didn’t sit well with me.

Still, the night went on. The DJ played some sick beats, and we danced our hearts out. Is this how rich kids live? Because I’m loving it. It feels like I’m free to do whatever I want, no rules, no limits. Just fun.

Before I knew it, it was past midnight. Time had flown by, and I’d had more than a couple of drinks. I was totally wasted. There was no way I was going home like this—my mom would freak out and lecture me for hours. So, I convinced Shane to take me to his place instead.

The drive was cold and quiet. I’d never been out this late before, and the city felt different at night. When we got to Shane’s house, we snuck in quietly and headed straight to his room. His bed was huge, plenty of space for the two of us.