Author Note: Even through sickness and distraught, Felecia managed to read
this chapter with her usual concentration. Truly a determined editor
deserving recognition. My hero.
Dangerous Minds
Chapter Three: The Other Players
To say that life was fair would be a complete delusional lie. Even sheltered amongst power and riches, Darien knew that equality did not exist in society. While he was at home in his luxuriant hot tub drinking champagne, someone one else out there was starving to death with barely enough heat to sustain their body temperature. There were millions dying of poverty each day, yet this aspect in no way dwelled on him.
Why should it? Is it his fault that the world is such a heinous place? Is it his fault that the laws of nature gave so little mercy to the weak? No. What would offering all your wealth and effort to the poor really accomplish?
For example, take his dear sister. Ten years his senior, but for what? So that she could feel all sad and depressed for these pathetic weaklings and dedicate her life to their service? Just the thought of this notion made Darien want to howl out in laughter or cringe in disgust. Maybe both. Now she was dead. Infected by some disease in Africa and died with the rest of the dirty peasants.
Good. Darien was more than gratified upon her departure from the world. No more distant half sister to split his inheritance. How fitful that the little bitch had died the Christian death she had always wanted. Darien knew that his father was also glad to hear the news. Nora Shields was a complete failure conceived on a momentary lapse of judgment. No more than that.
This news had just made his day.
"Hey Darien" greeted Malachite Norton, his supposed "best friend." The best friend that he found rather irritating most of the time. If not for his inheritance, little Norton would not even be half way up the social ladder. How he had snatched someone like Rachel Cornwalis was beyond Darien's understanding. But he didn't care either. Darien Shields had bigger fish to fry.
"Hey" Darien replied in his usual cold manor. No need to show irritation.
"Did you hear? Serena is back today" the pale blond informed with a casual display of excitement. But not too much excitement as to overshadow the presence of Rachel. Malachite had worked too hard to get her to let it be ruined by some momentary lapse of impulse.
"Really.?" drawled Darien with amusement. Speaking of the bigger fish.
"What honey?" inquired a sudden sweet melodramatic voice. The owner of the voice was a tall lemon blond that immediately ran over to the two most powerful male figures of the entire academy. Immediately, the girl attached herself to the left arm of Darien, as if proclaiming to the whole world that she was with him, despite the amount of time given.
Darien looked at his supposed flavor of the week. The thing with the weekly flavors is that they loose their excitement real fast. Sherry James was no exception.
"Serena is coming back today" informed Malachite once again for her benefit. The blond cheerleaders' face immediately lit up with happiness.
"Really? That's so AWESOME!" She exclaimed at the top of her lungs. The bustling activities by the wide lockers did not stop on account of her high pitched squeal. It was pretty usual for a cheerleader to scream at one thing or anther, be it a mouse or a brand new pair of designer shoes.
"Calm down Sherry" warned Malachite as he gently removed his hands from his ears. "Not so loud."
"Oh, I can just so not wait to meet her!" she exclaimed in a somewhat quieter tone. "I haven't seen her for like such a long time!"
Darien rolled his eyes inconspicuously at the display she was putting. Or rather the delusion she was living. Acting that Serena de'Mara was her best friend certainly is not going to get her in favor with the campus queen or raise her social status.
"Honey, let's go and meet her. She should probably be here within the next five minutes before the bell." She whined as she dragged the powerful male by his left arm. Irritation is slowly graduating to anger. But Darien caught himself just in time to suppress this oncoming disaster. With a contempt sigh, the great king of campus let himself be dragged across the bustling great hall by a mere female with Malachite following close behind.
'I suppose I can give the queen her proper greeting' concluded Darien, 'After all, I have missed her after trying to make conversation with airheaded little whores.'
Just as they reached the front entrance, her majesty came right on cue.
Serena walked through the magnificent double oak doors of Montgomery Academy with a dazzling smile to greet her fellow peers. As expected, a riot of greetings and welcoming showered upon her arrival. The monarch was back.
Unintimidated by the attack of her supposed best friends with bear hugs, she proceeded with the utmost confidence towards the crowds where numerous hands awaited to pet her back and gesture the happiness of her arrival. Her inner circle, as usual, was obediently behind her in happiness.
Darien Shield smiled seductively as she glanced in his direction with a raised eyebrow. Immediately, Sherry went to greet her with the utmost friendliness. Serena politely accepted her overenthusiatic greeting with a polite smile and proceeded down the hall.
But this time, Darien's deep midnight blue orbs did not follow her action. He was deeply concentrated on something else, or rather someone else.
After the dramatic entrance of Serena de'Mara, a certain someone else came marching in as well. The certain someone that had way too much confidence for his own good. The certain someone that was becoming a major threat on campus for Darien. The certain someone named Demando Roelestra.
Demando Roelestra, the heir of the Roelestra Empire and the supposed stepbrother of Serena de'Mara. And to Darien's assumption, the one that had drove her here this morning. There was a particular something about the guy that unnerved Darien to no end. Was it his constant silent observation? Or was it his ruthless tactics to get women in bed? Or was it his hidden leadership quality that Darien could sense from a three-mile radius? Or was it all, and more?
Darien wouldn't put it pass Roelestra to fuck his own stepsister. After all, what was the crime? They were in no way related by blood and probably have recently just met. Hell, if he had a stepsister like Serena de'Mara, he would be rejoicing with happiness. But he didn't, so the acquirement for Serena de'Mara's affection had just turned from a one-man show to a race.
Nailing Serena de'Mara was every guys dream in the academy. She was not only known for her breathtaking golden beauty, but for her remarkable intelligence and leadership as well. Flirting with her was an endless cycle of boom and bust. One day she may take it flattering, but another day offensive. She was a puzzle that enticed Darien to no end. And if Demando Roelestra nailed her first, Darien could kiss both his pride and campus title good bye.
Demando Roelestra was climbing the social chart with remarkable speed. Of course, it is expectant of the heir of an empire to be amongst the elite of the school, but no one had taken so much public admiration and wonderment in such a short period of time. With the added threat of getting personal with Serena de'Mara, Demando Roelestra may proclaim himself a campus god with endless worshipers. Darien had to think fast to eliminate this threat. Thank god that Serena was complete ice when it comes to dating.
But nonetheless, Darien had been chasing after her for too long to allow some other guy to just swoop in and take his kill. Despite his historic failure, it was still a hunt.
A hunt he did not want to lose.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Perhaps in another lifetime, Mina Richards and Serena de'Mara could have been close friends. In a way distant reality that is. But in this current setting, Mina and Serena were anything but close. She might have been the little Angel of the school, but Mina was not fooled for a second by her continuous charade.
Ever since freshman year, Mina had always remembered Serena to be the Little Miss Perfect. The queen of campus and the straight A honor student. She had it all: brains, beauty, wealth, and popularity. To say that Serena de'Mara was the most successful pupil that the elite Montgomery Academy had ever raised would be a very correct statement. However, life has not been treating Mina so well.
Upon being born into a rapidly declining family empire, Mina was not lavished with many of the same riches her fellow peers were privileged with. In fact, not even half. While living in a simple modest two-story home, the Richards family lived off what little they had saved of their previous multinational corporation. Perhaps Mina had her moronic grandfather to thank for that. The crack addictive sadistic alcoholic bastard that had made numerous fatal mistakes that took to undo what countless generations of Richards had built. Ever since the 1800's, the Richards family had been proclaimed one of the wealthiest families in America.
'Now look at us!' Mina grimaced with internal devastation. Her father was a bank manager and her mother a nurse. The only reason she and her six-year- old sister had a place in the prestigious Montgomery Academy was because of their old respected family name. The family name that had become the laughing stock of the whole elite community.
Upon entering the high school of the rich, Mina has always been found at the bottom of the social ladder. Although her lack of wealth had been one of the major factors contributing to her misfortune, her common looks and lack of charisma are what really drove her down. All in all, Mina Richards was a poor, plain commoner that the rest of the elite named as a loser. Especially Serena de'Mara and her inner circle.
While Serena was the beautiful goddess all guys chased, she was the common girl that all guys thought would make a nice temporary fuck when boredom hits. If not for the light complexion of both girls, Serena and Mina would be the exact opposites in life.
Perhaps it was sheer jealousy that drove Mina towards this deepening hatred of Serena de'Mara. Perhaps it was Serena's continuous taunting. Perhaps both. But one fact remained, Mina's sole purpose in life was to bring Serena de'Mara crumbling to the ashes, even if it took the remainder of her miserable life.
There were previous attempts made by Mina, but never enough to even dent the Golden Girl's reputation. Not even enough to touch her in the slightest way. Serena was always at the top of the social ladder while Mina was at the bottom. To bring down Serena, Mina had to think big.
And her thinking big came in the form of Demando Roelestra.
"de'Mara, you're gonna wish that you never came back" murmured Mina as she looked down the hall upon the cheering procession to welcome her arrival. Mina had a gut feeling that Demando would be the answer to her solution.
And her gut feeling was seldom wrong.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I'm SO glad your back!" screeched a slender blond as she ran over at lightning speed to hug Serena. To any observer ignorant of the happenings of Montgomery Academy, they would most definitely assume that the two girls were best friends who have not seen each other over years. However, that assumption would be more than wrong.
While the girl rattled on about how much she missed her, Serena did everything within her power to even remember this girl's name. Just another one of the anonymous cheerleaders that worshipped her.
"Oh come now Cloe, give Serena some room to breathe" commanded Anne as she approached Serena with a welcoming smile. The girl now known as Cloe reluctantly obliged. Despite her desire to get on Serena de'Mara's good side, she still did not want to risk the wrath of Anne Rose. Not unless she had Serena de'Mara's full support.
"Serena honey, I missed you" proclaimed Anne as she bombarded Serena with yet another hug, although in a more civilized manner. What was it with preps and hugs? "So how was France?"
"Good" Serena replied as she resumed her walk to the cafeteria before the little inconvenience. Of course, Anne chose to follow Serena in show of a strong friendship bond that Serena was pretty sure she didn't share. This school was filled with girls who had the illusion that they were great friends with Serena de'Mara.
"Just good?"
"Well, actually great. I met a lot of interesting people." Serena further explained while reminiscing the numerous hot anonymous guys she spent her nights with. Certainly a pleasure.
"Sounds like you had a great time" Anne observed, although not quite understanding how good. No one would ever suspect the Golden Girl of any wrongdoing.
"I did. So how are things with you?"
"As usual, school work, cheerleading practice, and parties. Doesn't get more exciting than this." Replied Anne in boredom.
"Oh come now, something exciting must have happened during the last three weeks."
"Well.Your stepbrother showed up. If hatred counts as excitement, I have never been so excited in my life! The guy is an ASSHOLE!"
"I take it you two have dated?" inquired Serena, although perfectly well knowing the answer already, thanks to her daily updates in France. Demando publicly humiliated Anne. Who would have guessed that the newbie had the guts to dump the head cheerleader after only three days? That did wonders for his rapidly growing reputation.
"I'm not even gonna go there" grimaced Anne in seething fury as she recalled last week's event.
At last the two have arrived upon the double wood doors leading into the magnificent large chamber serving as the cafeteria. Upon entrance, Serena immediately saw Michelle waving to her from their usual table.
"I'll see you later" she proclaimed to Anne as she began to head to the most elevated table in the school. Anne nodded in acceptance as she also headed to her place two tables down. No need to follow to where she would most definitely not be welcome.
"Hi guys" greeted Serena as she arrived in her usual spot at the center.
"Where've you been girl?" asked Ray with curiosity. "We've been waiting for you for a good five minutes now."
"Just around, greeting the usual people" replied Serena with boredom. Ray nodded in acceptance at her leaders aloof response. Serena did not like to be questioned much.
Rachel Cornwalis, the second in command. Also known as the performer of the group as she already plunged into a career of modeling with high hopes of future acting jobs coming her way. And why wouldn't they? With her long raven strands and violet orbs, she was the classical dark beauty the studios were lacking. All knew she would look good on screen, and her fierce temper made her the perfect character.
"So how was class this morning?" asked Michelle Gregory, the artist of the group. A painter and a musician. Her voice was the melodic tune that went in perfect harmony with the deep ocean. With aquamarine hair and equally stunning orbs, she was known as the chaste aquatic beauty with a very gentle temper.
"Rather boring" replied Serena when recalling the unlimited praises of teachers and their happiness upon her safe return. They were getting too easy to please. "So your exhibit still on tonight?"
"For sure" Michelle replied. "My sponsors would have a heart attack if I didn't. Apparently, they've got the idea that I'll be the next "big one" or something."
"So did the media" commented Trista, the brain of the group, in her usual serious tone. "Why won't you be? Your paintings are seriously the best of this generation."
Michelle nodded in acceptance. Praises were commonly given in upper society, but if true or not was in the eye of the beholder. However, coming from Trista, it was probably true.
Trista Reed was not a person that gave praises lightly. As president of the Honors society, she saw it as her responsibility to give others her truest critique, however sour that may be. With dark green hair on the edge of black and dark cinnamon orbs, she was the mystical beauty of the group. The one that makes a person feel ignorant upon her presence.
"Hey Ray, party still on Friday?" spoke Lita as she took another bite of her perfectly prepared stir-fry.
Lita Finning, the athletic of the group. From volleyball to soccer, she's played them all. Actually, she was captain of all the teams. Colleges threw themselves at her feet in hopes of her accepting their scholarships, but none beat the offers made by the national sport societies. To say that Lita was momentarily unattainable would be an understatement. The girl didn't know which sport to go pro at. With dark brown hair and forest green orbs, she would make any sports illustrator work out with her earthly beauty.
"Definitely," replied Ray with a malicious grin. "It'll blow Emerald's completely off!"
"What do you got so against her?" Michelle, always the nicest one, asked with an amused wonder. Unfortunately, the group was not known for its sainthood.
"Nothing" Ray replied nonchalantly. "The girl just pisses me off."
"The whole school pisses me off" commented Lita. "People are so slow!"
"I take it your experiencing some trouble with the basketball team?" inquired Serena with amusement.
"That'll be an understatement" muttered Lita. "The fuckers don't even know how to dribble right!"
"So what's got the rest of you so down?" further questioned Serena.
"Just the boredom of life in general" replied Ray with a yawn.
"Well, you guys wanna go for a ride?" suggested Michelle with a smile.
"You're still not tired of that new Jaguar?" Trista asked with a raised eyebrow, receiving a strong 'no' from Michelle in her sudden excitement.
"So let's go then" proclaimed Serena, the rightful decision-maker of the group. The rest nodded without care. As the golden blond got up and began to head towards the exit, the rest four followed in perfect synchronization.
With perfect grace the elite clique exited the large chamber. Although Montgomery Academy was known for its prestigious students, the de'Mara clique was beyond prestige. Amongst the rich families dominating the school, they were able to make a title for themselves and launch a successful career. In sight of all this money, they were yet able to head out into the world to look for more.
And that is what made them the best of the best.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Demando watched as the blue Jaguar pulled out of the school parking lot in its exclusive spot. The de'Mara circle has left school premises.
"How was it baby..?" Asked the brunet in her seductive tone as she slowly slid his large membrane out of her mouth. Release had finally hit the bored shitless Demando.
"Good" he replied nonchalantly as he began to zip up his pants. The brunet waited in desperation for a more elevating praise, but none came.
"That's it?!" she cried out with both disbelief and hurt.
"I've had better" commented Demando as he began to climb out of his car. The brunet was soon to follow.
"You ASSWHOLE! Come back here!" she shrieked with indignity. Demando, ignoring the shrilling noise, locked his car with a sound beep of his remote and began to enter the school.
"Did you hear me bastard?!" the voice continued, at last breaking Demando's spell of silence.
"Fuck off whore, before I do something drastic " Demando issued his warning. The warning that should not be taken lightly. After all, during the short period of three weeks, he was known to carry out his grave threats. Every single one.
At least having half a brain, the brunet left the sliver prince with a last seething glare. But she knew deep down that she would come running back if he would have her.
Demando entered the Academy with a smile. It was good to know how much power he held over others.
"I trust you were gone for a just cause" inquired Andrew as he fell in step beside Demando.
"Yes" the silver prince replied with a grin. "Although I didn't expect you back so soon."
"The authorities decided it wasn't my shipment" stated Andrew. "So what's been happening the past two days?"
"Well, Serena de'Mara came back, if you haven't heard all the commotion yet."
"Hell, who hasn't." Andrew proclaimed. "So did you meet her in person yet?"
"Of course, she is after all, my stepsister."
"I take it you drive into town every night with her sleeping right next door."
"A man's got to satisfy his needs somehow."
"Still trying to nail her?"
"I'm working on it." Demando replied with a grin of confidence.
"Roelestra, your gonna regret this" warned Andrew. "She may look all innocent, but she is most definitely NOT!"
"Don't I know it" muttered Demando as he recalled the brief conversations with her.
"Not only will she destroy you completely, but what tiny fraction of you left would be sourly taken care of by Shields. He got his eyes set on her ever since sophomore year."
"Guess I'll have to take him out of the picture." Demando spoke with the utmost confidence.
"Good luck on that" the blonde snorted at the lost cause. Shields cannot be taken out of the picture. He's been part of it ever since de'Mara's arrival.
"Just watch and learn my friend, watch and learn." With a pat on the shorter man's shoulder, Demando picked up his pace towards the cafeteria.
Strolling down the hall with the confidence of a god, he was unaware of the penetrating gaze of a pair of blue orbs seething with determination.
Mina Richards wanted this alliance bad.
Author Note: I appreciate all of your great support and patience. My next chapter should come out within the following month. For those of you interested in the La Morte, it should be updated within the next two weeks. Sorry if I cannot arrange a sooner date.
Please don't forget to review me. I'm always enjoying your input.
Dangerous Minds
Chapter Three: The Other Players
To say that life was fair would be a complete delusional lie. Even sheltered amongst power and riches, Darien knew that equality did not exist in society. While he was at home in his luxuriant hot tub drinking champagne, someone one else out there was starving to death with barely enough heat to sustain their body temperature. There were millions dying of poverty each day, yet this aspect in no way dwelled on him.
Why should it? Is it his fault that the world is such a heinous place? Is it his fault that the laws of nature gave so little mercy to the weak? No. What would offering all your wealth and effort to the poor really accomplish?
For example, take his dear sister. Ten years his senior, but for what? So that she could feel all sad and depressed for these pathetic weaklings and dedicate her life to their service? Just the thought of this notion made Darien want to howl out in laughter or cringe in disgust. Maybe both. Now she was dead. Infected by some disease in Africa and died with the rest of the dirty peasants.
Good. Darien was more than gratified upon her departure from the world. No more distant half sister to split his inheritance. How fitful that the little bitch had died the Christian death she had always wanted. Darien knew that his father was also glad to hear the news. Nora Shields was a complete failure conceived on a momentary lapse of judgment. No more than that.
This news had just made his day.
"Hey Darien" greeted Malachite Norton, his supposed "best friend." The best friend that he found rather irritating most of the time. If not for his inheritance, little Norton would not even be half way up the social ladder. How he had snatched someone like Rachel Cornwalis was beyond Darien's understanding. But he didn't care either. Darien Shields had bigger fish to fry.
"Hey" Darien replied in his usual cold manor. No need to show irritation.
"Did you hear? Serena is back today" the pale blond informed with a casual display of excitement. But not too much excitement as to overshadow the presence of Rachel. Malachite had worked too hard to get her to let it be ruined by some momentary lapse of impulse.
"Really.?" drawled Darien with amusement. Speaking of the bigger fish.
"What honey?" inquired a sudden sweet melodramatic voice. The owner of the voice was a tall lemon blond that immediately ran over to the two most powerful male figures of the entire academy. Immediately, the girl attached herself to the left arm of Darien, as if proclaiming to the whole world that she was with him, despite the amount of time given.
Darien looked at his supposed flavor of the week. The thing with the weekly flavors is that they loose their excitement real fast. Sherry James was no exception.
"Serena is coming back today" informed Malachite once again for her benefit. The blond cheerleaders' face immediately lit up with happiness.
"Really? That's so AWESOME!" She exclaimed at the top of her lungs. The bustling activities by the wide lockers did not stop on account of her high pitched squeal. It was pretty usual for a cheerleader to scream at one thing or anther, be it a mouse or a brand new pair of designer shoes.
"Calm down Sherry" warned Malachite as he gently removed his hands from his ears. "Not so loud."
"Oh, I can just so not wait to meet her!" she exclaimed in a somewhat quieter tone. "I haven't seen her for like such a long time!"
Darien rolled his eyes inconspicuously at the display she was putting. Or rather the delusion she was living. Acting that Serena de'Mara was her best friend certainly is not going to get her in favor with the campus queen or raise her social status.
"Honey, let's go and meet her. She should probably be here within the next five minutes before the bell." She whined as she dragged the powerful male by his left arm. Irritation is slowly graduating to anger. But Darien caught himself just in time to suppress this oncoming disaster. With a contempt sigh, the great king of campus let himself be dragged across the bustling great hall by a mere female with Malachite following close behind.
'I suppose I can give the queen her proper greeting' concluded Darien, 'After all, I have missed her after trying to make conversation with airheaded little whores.'
Just as they reached the front entrance, her majesty came right on cue.
Serena walked through the magnificent double oak doors of Montgomery Academy with a dazzling smile to greet her fellow peers. As expected, a riot of greetings and welcoming showered upon her arrival. The monarch was back.
Unintimidated by the attack of her supposed best friends with bear hugs, she proceeded with the utmost confidence towards the crowds where numerous hands awaited to pet her back and gesture the happiness of her arrival. Her inner circle, as usual, was obediently behind her in happiness.
Darien Shield smiled seductively as she glanced in his direction with a raised eyebrow. Immediately, Sherry went to greet her with the utmost friendliness. Serena politely accepted her overenthusiatic greeting with a polite smile and proceeded down the hall.
But this time, Darien's deep midnight blue orbs did not follow her action. He was deeply concentrated on something else, or rather someone else.
After the dramatic entrance of Serena de'Mara, a certain someone else came marching in as well. The certain someone that had way too much confidence for his own good. The certain someone that was becoming a major threat on campus for Darien. The certain someone named Demando Roelestra.
Demando Roelestra, the heir of the Roelestra Empire and the supposed stepbrother of Serena de'Mara. And to Darien's assumption, the one that had drove her here this morning. There was a particular something about the guy that unnerved Darien to no end. Was it his constant silent observation? Or was it his ruthless tactics to get women in bed? Or was it his hidden leadership quality that Darien could sense from a three-mile radius? Or was it all, and more?
Darien wouldn't put it pass Roelestra to fuck his own stepsister. After all, what was the crime? They were in no way related by blood and probably have recently just met. Hell, if he had a stepsister like Serena de'Mara, he would be rejoicing with happiness. But he didn't, so the acquirement for Serena de'Mara's affection had just turned from a one-man show to a race.
Nailing Serena de'Mara was every guys dream in the academy. She was not only known for her breathtaking golden beauty, but for her remarkable intelligence and leadership as well. Flirting with her was an endless cycle of boom and bust. One day she may take it flattering, but another day offensive. She was a puzzle that enticed Darien to no end. And if Demando Roelestra nailed her first, Darien could kiss both his pride and campus title good bye.
Demando Roelestra was climbing the social chart with remarkable speed. Of course, it is expectant of the heir of an empire to be amongst the elite of the school, but no one had taken so much public admiration and wonderment in such a short period of time. With the added threat of getting personal with Serena de'Mara, Demando Roelestra may proclaim himself a campus god with endless worshipers. Darien had to think fast to eliminate this threat. Thank god that Serena was complete ice when it comes to dating.
But nonetheless, Darien had been chasing after her for too long to allow some other guy to just swoop in and take his kill. Despite his historic failure, it was still a hunt.
A hunt he did not want to lose.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Perhaps in another lifetime, Mina Richards and Serena de'Mara could have been close friends. In a way distant reality that is. But in this current setting, Mina and Serena were anything but close. She might have been the little Angel of the school, but Mina was not fooled for a second by her continuous charade.
Ever since freshman year, Mina had always remembered Serena to be the Little Miss Perfect. The queen of campus and the straight A honor student. She had it all: brains, beauty, wealth, and popularity. To say that Serena de'Mara was the most successful pupil that the elite Montgomery Academy had ever raised would be a very correct statement. However, life has not been treating Mina so well.
Upon being born into a rapidly declining family empire, Mina was not lavished with many of the same riches her fellow peers were privileged with. In fact, not even half. While living in a simple modest two-story home, the Richards family lived off what little they had saved of their previous multinational corporation. Perhaps Mina had her moronic grandfather to thank for that. The crack addictive sadistic alcoholic bastard that had made numerous fatal mistakes that took to undo what countless generations of Richards had built. Ever since the 1800's, the Richards family had been proclaimed one of the wealthiest families in America.
'Now look at us!' Mina grimaced with internal devastation. Her father was a bank manager and her mother a nurse. The only reason she and her six-year- old sister had a place in the prestigious Montgomery Academy was because of their old respected family name. The family name that had become the laughing stock of the whole elite community.
Upon entering the high school of the rich, Mina has always been found at the bottom of the social ladder. Although her lack of wealth had been one of the major factors contributing to her misfortune, her common looks and lack of charisma are what really drove her down. All in all, Mina Richards was a poor, plain commoner that the rest of the elite named as a loser. Especially Serena de'Mara and her inner circle.
While Serena was the beautiful goddess all guys chased, she was the common girl that all guys thought would make a nice temporary fuck when boredom hits. If not for the light complexion of both girls, Serena and Mina would be the exact opposites in life.
Perhaps it was sheer jealousy that drove Mina towards this deepening hatred of Serena de'Mara. Perhaps it was Serena's continuous taunting. Perhaps both. But one fact remained, Mina's sole purpose in life was to bring Serena de'Mara crumbling to the ashes, even if it took the remainder of her miserable life.
There were previous attempts made by Mina, but never enough to even dent the Golden Girl's reputation. Not even enough to touch her in the slightest way. Serena was always at the top of the social ladder while Mina was at the bottom. To bring down Serena, Mina had to think big.
And her thinking big came in the form of Demando Roelestra.
"de'Mara, you're gonna wish that you never came back" murmured Mina as she looked down the hall upon the cheering procession to welcome her arrival. Mina had a gut feeling that Demando would be the answer to her solution.
And her gut feeling was seldom wrong.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I'm SO glad your back!" screeched a slender blond as she ran over at lightning speed to hug Serena. To any observer ignorant of the happenings of Montgomery Academy, they would most definitely assume that the two girls were best friends who have not seen each other over years. However, that assumption would be more than wrong.
While the girl rattled on about how much she missed her, Serena did everything within her power to even remember this girl's name. Just another one of the anonymous cheerleaders that worshipped her.
"Oh come now Cloe, give Serena some room to breathe" commanded Anne as she approached Serena with a welcoming smile. The girl now known as Cloe reluctantly obliged. Despite her desire to get on Serena de'Mara's good side, she still did not want to risk the wrath of Anne Rose. Not unless she had Serena de'Mara's full support.
"Serena honey, I missed you" proclaimed Anne as she bombarded Serena with yet another hug, although in a more civilized manner. What was it with preps and hugs? "So how was France?"
"Good" Serena replied as she resumed her walk to the cafeteria before the little inconvenience. Of course, Anne chose to follow Serena in show of a strong friendship bond that Serena was pretty sure she didn't share. This school was filled with girls who had the illusion that they were great friends with Serena de'Mara.
"Just good?"
"Well, actually great. I met a lot of interesting people." Serena further explained while reminiscing the numerous hot anonymous guys she spent her nights with. Certainly a pleasure.
"Sounds like you had a great time" Anne observed, although not quite understanding how good. No one would ever suspect the Golden Girl of any wrongdoing.
"I did. So how are things with you?"
"As usual, school work, cheerleading practice, and parties. Doesn't get more exciting than this." Replied Anne in boredom.
"Oh come now, something exciting must have happened during the last three weeks."
"Well.Your stepbrother showed up. If hatred counts as excitement, I have never been so excited in my life! The guy is an ASSHOLE!"
"I take it you two have dated?" inquired Serena, although perfectly well knowing the answer already, thanks to her daily updates in France. Demando publicly humiliated Anne. Who would have guessed that the newbie had the guts to dump the head cheerleader after only three days? That did wonders for his rapidly growing reputation.
"I'm not even gonna go there" grimaced Anne in seething fury as she recalled last week's event.
At last the two have arrived upon the double wood doors leading into the magnificent large chamber serving as the cafeteria. Upon entrance, Serena immediately saw Michelle waving to her from their usual table.
"I'll see you later" she proclaimed to Anne as she began to head to the most elevated table in the school. Anne nodded in acceptance as she also headed to her place two tables down. No need to follow to where she would most definitely not be welcome.
"Hi guys" greeted Serena as she arrived in her usual spot at the center.
"Where've you been girl?" asked Ray with curiosity. "We've been waiting for you for a good five minutes now."
"Just around, greeting the usual people" replied Serena with boredom. Ray nodded in acceptance at her leaders aloof response. Serena did not like to be questioned much.
Rachel Cornwalis, the second in command. Also known as the performer of the group as she already plunged into a career of modeling with high hopes of future acting jobs coming her way. And why wouldn't they? With her long raven strands and violet orbs, she was the classical dark beauty the studios were lacking. All knew she would look good on screen, and her fierce temper made her the perfect character.
"So how was class this morning?" asked Michelle Gregory, the artist of the group. A painter and a musician. Her voice was the melodic tune that went in perfect harmony with the deep ocean. With aquamarine hair and equally stunning orbs, she was known as the chaste aquatic beauty with a very gentle temper.
"Rather boring" replied Serena when recalling the unlimited praises of teachers and their happiness upon her safe return. They were getting too easy to please. "So your exhibit still on tonight?"
"For sure" Michelle replied. "My sponsors would have a heart attack if I didn't. Apparently, they've got the idea that I'll be the next "big one" or something."
"So did the media" commented Trista, the brain of the group, in her usual serious tone. "Why won't you be? Your paintings are seriously the best of this generation."
Michelle nodded in acceptance. Praises were commonly given in upper society, but if true or not was in the eye of the beholder. However, coming from Trista, it was probably true.
Trista Reed was not a person that gave praises lightly. As president of the Honors society, she saw it as her responsibility to give others her truest critique, however sour that may be. With dark green hair on the edge of black and dark cinnamon orbs, she was the mystical beauty of the group. The one that makes a person feel ignorant upon her presence.
"Hey Ray, party still on Friday?" spoke Lita as she took another bite of her perfectly prepared stir-fry.
Lita Finning, the athletic of the group. From volleyball to soccer, she's played them all. Actually, she was captain of all the teams. Colleges threw themselves at her feet in hopes of her accepting their scholarships, but none beat the offers made by the national sport societies. To say that Lita was momentarily unattainable would be an understatement. The girl didn't know which sport to go pro at. With dark brown hair and forest green orbs, she would make any sports illustrator work out with her earthly beauty.
"Definitely," replied Ray with a malicious grin. "It'll blow Emerald's completely off!"
"What do you got so against her?" Michelle, always the nicest one, asked with an amused wonder. Unfortunately, the group was not known for its sainthood.
"Nothing" Ray replied nonchalantly. "The girl just pisses me off."
"The whole school pisses me off" commented Lita. "People are so slow!"
"I take it your experiencing some trouble with the basketball team?" inquired Serena with amusement.
"That'll be an understatement" muttered Lita. "The fuckers don't even know how to dribble right!"
"So what's got the rest of you so down?" further questioned Serena.
"Just the boredom of life in general" replied Ray with a yawn.
"Well, you guys wanna go for a ride?" suggested Michelle with a smile.
"You're still not tired of that new Jaguar?" Trista asked with a raised eyebrow, receiving a strong 'no' from Michelle in her sudden excitement.
"So let's go then" proclaimed Serena, the rightful decision-maker of the group. The rest nodded without care. As the golden blond got up and began to head towards the exit, the rest four followed in perfect synchronization.
With perfect grace the elite clique exited the large chamber. Although Montgomery Academy was known for its prestigious students, the de'Mara clique was beyond prestige. Amongst the rich families dominating the school, they were able to make a title for themselves and launch a successful career. In sight of all this money, they were yet able to head out into the world to look for more.
And that is what made them the best of the best.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Demando watched as the blue Jaguar pulled out of the school parking lot in its exclusive spot. The de'Mara circle has left school premises.
"How was it baby..?" Asked the brunet in her seductive tone as she slowly slid his large membrane out of her mouth. Release had finally hit the bored shitless Demando.
"Good" he replied nonchalantly as he began to zip up his pants. The brunet waited in desperation for a more elevating praise, but none came.
"That's it?!" she cried out with both disbelief and hurt.
"I've had better" commented Demando as he began to climb out of his car. The brunet was soon to follow.
"You ASSWHOLE! Come back here!" she shrieked with indignity. Demando, ignoring the shrilling noise, locked his car with a sound beep of his remote and began to enter the school.
"Did you hear me bastard?!" the voice continued, at last breaking Demando's spell of silence.
"Fuck off whore, before I do something drastic " Demando issued his warning. The warning that should not be taken lightly. After all, during the short period of three weeks, he was known to carry out his grave threats. Every single one.
At least having half a brain, the brunet left the sliver prince with a last seething glare. But she knew deep down that she would come running back if he would have her.
Demando entered the Academy with a smile. It was good to know how much power he held over others.
"I trust you were gone for a just cause" inquired Andrew as he fell in step beside Demando.
"Yes" the silver prince replied with a grin. "Although I didn't expect you back so soon."
"The authorities decided it wasn't my shipment" stated Andrew. "So what's been happening the past two days?"
"Well, Serena de'Mara came back, if you haven't heard all the commotion yet."
"Hell, who hasn't." Andrew proclaimed. "So did you meet her in person yet?"
"Of course, she is after all, my stepsister."
"I take it you drive into town every night with her sleeping right next door."
"A man's got to satisfy his needs somehow."
"Still trying to nail her?"
"I'm working on it." Demando replied with a grin of confidence.
"Roelestra, your gonna regret this" warned Andrew. "She may look all innocent, but she is most definitely NOT!"
"Don't I know it" muttered Demando as he recalled the brief conversations with her.
"Not only will she destroy you completely, but what tiny fraction of you left would be sourly taken care of by Shields. He got his eyes set on her ever since sophomore year."
"Guess I'll have to take him out of the picture." Demando spoke with the utmost confidence.
"Good luck on that" the blonde snorted at the lost cause. Shields cannot be taken out of the picture. He's been part of it ever since de'Mara's arrival.
"Just watch and learn my friend, watch and learn." With a pat on the shorter man's shoulder, Demando picked up his pace towards the cafeteria.
Strolling down the hall with the confidence of a god, he was unaware of the penetrating gaze of a pair of blue orbs seething with determination.
Mina Richards wanted this alliance bad.
Author Note: I appreciate all of your great support and patience. My next chapter should come out within the following month. For those of you interested in the La Morte, it should be updated within the next two weeks. Sorry if I cannot arrange a sooner date.
Please don't forget to review me. I'm always enjoying your input.