Twisted Legacy (This is a working title)

The Crown Jewel

"Welcome to WVU—or as we all know it, White Valley University," the proctor's voice echoed across the grand auditorium. "And not just any part of WVU, but the elite Advanced Business Program. Only a select few are invited to join this prestigious course, handpicked to become the next titans of industry, not just in this country, but across the world."

As the proctor's words hung in the air, a sense of pride swelled among the students. Many sat up straighter, feeling special and eager for the opportunities ahead. The air was thick with ambition, but as the proctor continued, a ripple of murmurs spread through the crowd.

Olivia entered the auditorium, her posture regal, every step measured with the confidence of someone who knew they were destined for greatness. Heads turned as she strutted down the aisle, her chin lifted slightly. Of course, it's me they're talking about, she thought with a smirk. Olivia, the rising star of the Bradford family, felt she was the center of attention.

She reached her reserved seat, the murmuring still echoing through the hall. They'll stop soon, she told herself, expecting the proctor to continue with her introduction. The anticipation of being publicly recognized sent a thrill down her spine.

"We at White Valley University are deeply honored to welcome a prodigy..." the proctor began, and Olivia instinctively started to rise from her seat, prepared to bask in the recognition she was sure was hers.

"...of the Golden Empire," the proctor finished, sending a shockwave through Olivia.

Her smile faltered. Golden Empire? Confused, she lowered herself back into her seat just as the crowd's murmurs rose to a roar. The heavy double doors swung open at the back of the auditorium, and a tall, striking figure entered.

"Beatrice Sullivan"

The entire hall seemed to hold its breath. Beatrice, the fiery-haired prodigy of the Golden Empire, strode confidently down the aisle, her presence commanding every eye in the room. At just 17, she had already rebuilt floundering businesses and restored them to their former glory—some even exceeding their past success. She wasn't just a prodigy; she was a force of nature.

Olivia's chest tightened. She's here? This was no ordinary rival. Beatrice wasn't just another student; she was the crown jewel of the business world, known for her ruthlessness and brilliance.

Suddenly, the crowd's gasps were interrupted by a soft thud.

"Oomph."

A geeky girl with unruly curly brown hair had bumped straight into Beatrice's back, her eyes wide with embarrassment. She stammered nervously, "I-I'm so sorry, Ms. Sullivan! I didn't mean to—"

Beatrice turned, and for a moment, the room held its breath again. But then she smiled—graciously, almost too sweetly. "No worries," she said, her voice smooth, as she patted the girl's shoulder and continued her descent toward her seat.

The geeky girl stumbled back, relieved but still flustered, while the rest of the students remained mesmerized by Beatrice's grace under pressure. Olivia, however, was seething inside. She watched the crowd's awe-struck gazes follow Beatrice, and she could almost feel herself fading into the background.

She's not that special, Olivia thought, forcing a tight smile. I can outshine her. I will outshine her.

But as Beatrice sat in her seat, her aura of effortless superiority filled the room, and Olivia's resolve was put to the test. As much as Olivia hated to admit it, Beatrice wasn't just the center of attention—she was the one to beat.

The proctor, sensing the heightened energy in the room, smiled knowingly. "Now that we've welcomed the illustrious Miss Sullivan," he said, pausing to glance around the room, "let us continue. You're all here because you are the future—the brightest minds who will reshape industries and redefine success. But remember, genius alone will not carry you to the top. It will take strategy, perseverance, and, most importantly... alliances."

As the proctor's words echoed through the hall, Olivia's eyes drifted back to Beatrice, who sat calmly, the picture of poise.

Alliances, Olivia thought. We'll see about that.

Her competitive fire ignited anew, and for the first time, she realized that this wasn't just about her proving herself as a Bradford anymore. This was war—and Beatrice was her first battlefield.

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I uploaded 3 parts first to test the waters. I hope whoever is reading this would want to read more. Thank you