Chapter 46
Olivia had been the star of Vanguard High from the moment she walked through those doors. She was gorgeous, talented, and everyone seemed to love her— teachers, classmates, you name it.
But right then, a voice rang out from the crowd. “Charlotte!”
All at once, heads turned. People had seen Charlotte’s picture on the school forum before. Even though it was just a blurry outline, it had been enough to cause a stir. Now, here she was, standing less than fifteen feet away.
Sunlight spilled through the thick branches, casting Charlotte in a soft, golden glow. Her uniform fit perfectly, showing off her tall, slender figure. The breeze picked up her long hair, and even though she wasn’t wearing a stitch of makeup, her skin practically glowed under the sunlight. She was stunning so beautiful it was hard to
look away.
Someone couldn’t help but whisper, “She’s so pretty.”
“Seriously, what does she eat to get skin like that? And those legs, are they real?”
“I didn’t think people like her existed outside of magazines.”
As soon as one person spoke up, everyone else started gossiping, totally forgetting that their own school beauty queen, Olivia, was right there with them.
“She might be pretty, but if that’s all she’s got, she’s just a pretty face,” someone suddenly scoffed.
Nancy stepped up and looped her arm through Olivia’s, shooting Charlotte a look full of envy and spite. “She’s nothing like Olivia. Olivia’s got the looks and the talent.”
Olivia gave a tiny frown, her voice soft and gentle. “Don’t say that. Everyone here is amazing in their own way.”
“Olivia, you’re just too nice. Not everyone can win a national piano competition and become Laura’s student
At the mention of this, the group looked at Olivia with open admiration.
“That’s right. Olivia is so humble. That’s why she’s so successful.”
“You’re incredible. I’m sure Laura will want you as her student the moment she hears you play.”
Olivia’s cheeks flushed, her shyness only making her more charming. “It’s not a sure thing. There are a lot of talented people out there. I still have so much to learn.”
Charlotte was just about to rate Olivia’s performance as Oscar-worthy when her phone buzzed. She glanced down and opened her social media.
Blair: “Hey kid, are you done with class?”
Charlotte’s long lashes fluttered. She pressed her lips together, ignored the chatter around her, and headed straight for the exit.
Seeing Charlotte walk away without saying anything, Nancy smirked. She’s not so tough after all, Nancy thought. All bark, no bite.
“Olivia, don’t worry. We’ve got your back. She wouldn’t dare mess with you while we’re around.”
That set off a new round of curiosity. “Olivia, is it true? Is she really your dad’s daughter from another woman?”
Olivia bit her lip, looking like she wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words. “No matter what, we’re still sisters.”
Everyone’s eyes lit up. That had to be the truth.
“Your mom’s okay with it? I heard she’s been mean to you about it!”
Olivia gave a little sigh, her smile tinged with resignation. “Please, let’s not talk
about it anymore. I’ll try to get along with her from now on.”
Her helpless smile made her look even more like the sweet, long-suffering victim, always turning the other cheek no matter how unfairly she was treated. No one asked more questions. They’d already decided Charlotte was the villain who’d ruined Olivia’s family.
“Kind people always get picked on Nancy added, stirring the pot. “From now on let’s just stay away from her There’s no reason to let someone like that drag us down.”
P.n
Nancy still remembered how Charlotte had left her to fend for herself, almost landing her in jail. I Olivia hadn’t stepped in, found a lawyer and bailed her out, she’d probably still be sitting at the police Station. Nancy wasn’t about to let Charlotte off the hook. This wasn’t over-not by a long shot.