𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬 | 𝟏𝟖 +

𝐎 𝐍 𝐄

Dakota

I was nestled comfortably under my blanket, dreaming about my first day at Beaumont Law Firm, the biggest and most powerful law firm in New York City. It felt surreal that I was finally getting this opportunity. The anticipation was almost overwhelming, making me smile even in my sleep.

Suddenly, my peaceful slumber was shattered by a soft but forceful smack across my face. My eyes flew open, and for a split second, I was disoriented, trying to comprehend what had just happened. It was like being pulled from a dream into a whirlwind of chaos. Before I could even gather my thoughts, I felt myself tipping over the edge of the bed, landing with a thud on the floor.

"Kota!" I heard a giggle that was unmistakably my niece, Avery.

"Really?" I groaned, rubbing my face where the pillow had struck me. I looked up to see Avery doubled over with laughter, her bright blue eyes sparkling with mischief.

"You're going to be late for your first day!" she exclaimed, her voice sing-songy and filled with excitement.

My heart dropped as her words registered. "What?" I shot up from the floor, adrenaline coursing through me. "No! What time is it?"

"Time to get ready!" she said, winking at me as she danced out of the room.

I quickly glanced at the clock on my bedside table, and panic washed over me. I had overslept! "Avery, wait!" I called out, but she was already down the hall, her giggles trailing behind her.

"Your mom made breakfast!" she yelled back, her voice echoing with enthusiasm.

"Thanks!" I shouted, already moving toward my en-suite bathroom. I closed the door behind me, taking a deep breath to steady my racing heart. This was it; today was the day. I couldn't believe I was finally starting my internship.

I turned on the shower, letting the warm water cascade over me as I tried to shake off the remnants of sleep. As I washed my hair and scrubbed my body, I thought about what awaited me at the firm. I had worked so hard to get here, and I was determined to make the most of this opportunity.

Once I finished, I brushed my teeth and styled my short brown curly hair. I wanted to look professional but comfortable, ready to take on whatever challenges came my way.

I stepped into my walk-in closet, surveying my options. After a moment of deliberation, I decided on a pair of black slacks that hugged my legs just right. I slipped on my favorite white Converse, because comfort was key and chose a black cream sweater that felt soft against my skin. I felt good, this was a look that would help me fit into the serious atmosphere of the law firm while still reflecting my personality.

I adorned my fingers with my bulky silver rings and slipped on a matching necklace and bracelet. Lastly, I strapped on my Apple Watch, checking the time, no more delays!

Before heading out, I grabbed my favorite cologne from the shelf, spritzing it on with a sense of confidence. It was a simple gesture, but it helped to ground me as I prepared for the day ahead.

Feeling refreshed and more awake, I finally opened the bathroom door and headed for the kitchen, where the aroma of breakfast wafted through the air. I could hear Avery chatting with my mom, the sounds of their laughter bringing a smile to my face.

As I entered the kitchen, I found my mom at the stove, flipping pancakes with precision, while Avery was setting the table. "Good morning, sleepyhead!" my mom said, her tone light but teasing.

"Thanks for the wake-up call." I replied, rolling my eyes playfully at Avery, who just grinned back at me, her face full of pride.

"You're going to rock it today, Kota." Avery encouraged, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

I felt a swell of gratitude for my family, their support fueling my determination. "Thanks, guys. I'll do my best." I replied, grabbing a plate and piling on pancakes and fresh fruit.

As I took a seat, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling within me. Today marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and I was ready to face whatever came my way at Beaumont Law Firm.

As I settled into my seat at the kitchen table, the familiar warmth of home enveloped me. My mom was busy at the stove, flipping pancakes with a grace that made it look effortless. The smell of warm syrup mingled with fresh fruit, creating a cozy atmosphere that made my stomach rumble in anticipation. Avery, my niece, was sitting nearby, glued to her phone, her fingers dancing across the screen as she typed away.

"Hey, Mom." I called, taking a sip of my tea. "Where's Ma?"

My mom turned slightly, a smile breaking across her face. "She and Olivia are in the garage. They're working on something for the car."

I nodded, feeling a flutter of excitement in my chest. I always loved the sound of my family collaborating on projects. It reminded me of how close we all were, even with the age gaps and differences in our lives.

Just as I took another sip of my tea, I felt a sudden burst of tickles on my sides. I shrieked, laughter escaping my lips as I squirmed in my chair, trying to fend off the assault.

"Gotcha!" Ma exclaimed, her eyes dancing with mischief.

Before I could retaliate, my Ma leaning down to plant a soft kiss on my forehead. "Good morning, sweetheart! How are you feeling about your first day?"

"I'm excited!" I replied, a grin spreading across my face. "I can't wait to begin."

Olivia sauntered into the kitchen just then, and without hesitation, she kissed my cheek and wrapped her arms around me in a hug. Despite being my half-sister, Olivia had always felt like my own flesh and blood. We were close, bonded by shared experiences and an unbreakable sisterly connection.

"You better watch out for Genevieve Beaumont." Olivia teased, pulling back to give me a playful poke in the ribs. "She's as ruthless as they come."

I frowned, a hint of worry creeping into my chest. "Is she really that bad?"

Avery nodded enthusiastically, her eyes wide with drama. "She's a heartless bitch!"

"Language!" both my mom and Ma chimed in unison, their voices firm but lighthearted.

My mom sighed, glancing at me with an understanding smile. "You'll be fine, baby. Just remember to stand your ground. You've got this."

As I listened to my family, I couldn't help but admire my mom. She had aged like fine wine, her blonde hair long and shiny, though it was peppered with a little gray. She didn't look her age at all, her vibrant energy radiating youthfulness. I often found myself wondering where I got my height from. At 5'1", I felt small among my towering family. My mom and Ma were both taller than me, and even Olivia had a few inches on me. Avery, despite being a few months younger, was catching up fast. I felt a twinge of envy, but it was overshadowed by pride for my family.

"Seriously, Dakota." Olivia continued, sipping her own cup of coffee, "You need to be prepared. Genevieve doesn't play nice. If she smells weakness, she'll pounce."

"I can handle myself." I insisted, trying to sound more confident than I felt. The last thing I wanted was to walk into the firm already doubting my capabilities.

"Of course you can." my mom reassured me, her gaze steady and encouraging. "Just be yourself. You're more than capable."

I smiled at her words, appreciating the love and support that surrounded me.

The conversation shifted to other topics as we finished breakfast, but my thoughts kept drifting back to the day ahead. I was about to step into a world I had dreamed of for so long, and while the nerves were there, I felt ready to tackle whatever challenges came my way.

With breakfast finished and my heart racing with anticipation, I stood up, ready to embrace the next chapter of my life.

"Good luck, baby, I love you." Mom said, giving me a gentle kiss on the forehead and a hug.

As I grabbed my bag and headed toward the door, I could hear my family's laughter behind me, their joy and encouragement fueling my determination. This was my moment, and I was going to make the most of it.

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~ R