My Supposed Nemesis (The Rivalries Series 1)

Chapter 1

Chapter 01

The lights above the Illumina tower flickered, drowning out the cries of those who would never step inside.

Just a few miles away, I can see the iconic tower that my family has built over the centuries—a historic landmark of the city.

The Illumina tower.

And here I am, navigating the bustling streets of the city-state, driving toward the event I have been preparing for my entire life.

"Victoria just called. Everything's good to go with the red carpet. I also checked the prototype and visuals—they look flawless and the venue's running perfectly." Roberta, my trusted secretary, relayed with efficiency beside me.

"Call her again. Ensure the guest list is finalized. We'll arrive shortly, so let her know I'll review it. Every detail I demanded must be executed flawlessly. This is my debut project, and I won't accept anything less than perfection," I asserted, my tone leaving no room for doubt, as makeup artists honed in on their final touches.

I lifted a mirror, flicking the lights on to inspect my makeup and jewelry with a critical eye, ensuring everything was in its rightful place.

"Carlo, add a bit of gloss to the corners of my lips; they're looking dry," I instructed, casting a glance at the hairstylist. "Loosen my hair a bit and add volume. No more hairspray—I don't want it feeling rubberized. And spray more perfume."

They sprang into action, moving swiftly as I rehearsed my lines in the mirror.

"Project Nova is a revolutionary renewable energy source that taps into the Earth's natural resources, utilizing advanced artificial intelligence and nanotechnology to generate limitless clean power..." I murmured, pausing to clear my throat, the sound a bit off.

I scrutinized every word for perfection.

This project is important for me because it is my first ever major project and and I will accept no outcome other than surpassing my family's legacy and becoming the highlight of this year.

No Arceo has ever been a failure.

And I would not be the first.

As I approached my family's cultural center, The Sanctum of Heritage, a mix of pride and unease surged within me. This place, one of the largest and oldest cultural centers in the country, stood as a testament to our legacy.

Its stunning architecture—a beautiful fusion of Grecian elements, Middle Eastern designs, and Italian-inspired landscapes—was gracefully infused with a hint of modernity.

I couldn't help but feel the weight of expectations pressed heavily on my shoulders.

My thoughts were interrupted as our car slowed.

"Why are we stopping? I'll be late," I snapped, irritation creeping into my voice.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Arceo, but protesters are blocking our way," came the response.

I sighed, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. I thought this situation had been handled. These people... they wouldn't really understand, huh?

Their naivety ignited a simmering anger within me; they needed help, yet whenever I offered it, they painted me as the villain.

"Make it quick. I'll call the team to resolve this; they've got numbers," I instructed, glancing out the window to see the crowd chanting, placards held high.

'No More Sacrifices for Profit!'

"Roberta, can you call the security team and Victoria? Have them manage the crowd—whatever it takes. I certainly don't want the media spotlight on this," I said with a sigh.