Chapter 1: The House Goes Dark

Sofía stood frozen in the darkness.

Only the soft lights from guests' phones illuminated the stunned faces around the pool.

One by one, the luxury cars began leaving.

The musicians packed their instruments.

The caterers wheeled away trays of untouched food.

Within minutes, the birthday celebration she had spent months bragging about was gone.

Just like that.

Her father calmly removed his soaked suit jacket and handed it to a security guard.

"Everyone out," he said quietly.

No one argued.

The authority in his voice was enough.

Soon, only Sofía remained beside the pool.

Her mascara was beginning to run.

For the first time all night, she looked less like a queen and more like a frightened child.

"You embarrassed me," she said bitterly.

Her father stared at her.

"No, Sofía."

His voice remained calm.

"You embarrassed yourself."

The words hit harder than any punishment.

Then he walked past her.

Before entering the mansion, he stopped.

"Tomorrow morning, your credit cards will be canceled."

Sofía's eyes widened.

"What?"

"You want independence?" he replied.

"Now you'll learn what it costs."

Then he disappeared inside.

Leaving her completely alone.