Twisted Legacy (This is a working title)

The Idea to be Betrothed

The day before arriving at White Valley University.

"Nicki, my dear, take this opportunity to woo Ms. Sullivan. With a little charm, we could forge a connection with the Golden Empire family."

Matilda Fairway, the grand matron of the Fairway dynasty, leaned back in her chair, her silver hair glinting in the sunlight. Once a sought-after model, she hailed from the prestigious Adair family, known for their iconic fashion house and textile empire. Even without her family's wealth, Matilda was a force in her own right—an indomitable matriarch whose charisma and poise had captivated audiences for decades.

Matilda was the reason the Fairway family was always in the limelight. Unafraid of the camera, she frequently included her family in her photoshoots, showcasing not just their beauty but their tight-knit bond. Even in her twilight years, she remained a muse for various brands, modeling everything from perfumes to luxury skincare—her magnetic aura still demanding attention.

"Mother, stop teasing Nicki," Martin Fairway, Nicki's father, chimed in with a playful wink. A man of intellect and charm, Martin was the architect behind their family's immense wealth. Under his leadership, the Fairway agricultural business transformed from a struggling venture into a thriving empire, catching the eye of the Golden Empire in the process.

"But son, if you could add a little charm to your itinerary..." Matilda's teasing tone lightened the mood further.

"Really, Father? I thought you were on my side!"

"Nicki, she's my mother. I'm on her side," Martin replied, both father and grandmother chuckling at Nicki's expense.

"Well, I hope you both get stomachaches from too much laughter! Har har," Nicki retorted, blowing a kiss to the laughing duo.

"At least wish us luck?"

"Of course! Good luck to you, Dominic Fairway!" Matilda called after him, her laughter echoing through the hall as Nicki headed for the door of their house.

House? Not a mansion? A castle? A penthouse?

Yes, just a house.

The Fairway residence exuded a rare charm, its simplicity a stark contrast to the opulence of many wealthy families. Their home, surrounded by sprawling farmland, had been lovingly renovated over generations, preserving the memories of those who laid the foundations of their legacy. Though modernized in key areas, it retained a warmth and homeliness that made it unique.

"Nicki, your annoyance is palpable from across the room," observed Tobias Higgins, affectionately known as Toby, Nicki's best friend and confidant. If Nicki were a wolf pack leader, Toby would be his steadfast beta.

"What's got you so riled up this time?" Toby leaned against the wall, arms crossed.

"They found out we're applying for the special business course at WVU. And do you know what they asked me to do?" Nicki's voice dripped with frustration.

"Marry the prodigy?" Toby quipped, his expression deadpan.

Nicki was taken aback, momentarily stunned by his friend's boldness. "Seriously? You think that's a solution?"

"It's a wild guess, Nicki. What else could annoy you?" Toby shrugged, motioning for Nicki to follow him toward their RV.

"Your carriage awaits, my alpha, to meet your luna," he said with a teasing grin.

"Really? Keep it up, Tubby, and I'll feed you to my wolves," Nicki shot back, his frustration melting into playful banter.

"So harsh, my alpha," Toby laughed, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth. Nicki couldn't take the teasing anymore and playfully headlocked his best friend.

As they approached the RV, Nicki's mind raced with thoughts of Beatrice Sullivan—the prodigy from the Golden Empire. He knew that impressing her would mean more than just personal ambition; it could be a key to a powerful alliance that would elevate the Fairway name even further. The stakes were higher than ever, and with his friends by his side, he felt a surge of determination.

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Sorry this part is quite short