Spring 2023 – University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
A clear blue sky stretched over the University of Southern California campus. Cheers from the guests filled the main field, where the graduation ceremony was in full swing. On the grand stage, six familiar figures—already well-known in the world of socialites and media—were called one by one.
"Victoria Alistair – Master of Fine Arts in Theater, Cum Laude."
Victoria walked confidently, a glimpse of her red dress peeking from beneath her black graduation gown. Her smile was wide and full of charisma, while camera flashes followed her every move.
"Rebecca Alistair – Master of Science in Business and Law, Magna Cum Laude."
Rebecca stood tall in a green blazer beneath her gown, exuding an aura of professional elegance. As she received her diploma, she gave a slight nod—poised and effortlessly graceful.
"Madison Alistair – Master of Fine Arts in Fashion Design, Cum Laude."
Madison bounced onto the stage with childlike enthusiasm. She waved at the audience, sending the crowd into a frenzy of applause.
"Davis Alistair – Master of Science in Music Industry, Cum Laude."
Davis looked every bit the rockstar. His black mohawk stood out beneath his graduation cap, and his ripped jeans and boots made no attempt to hide his rebellious streak. He walked with steady strides, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
"Sadie Alistair – Doctor of Medicine, Summa Cum Laude."
Sadie walked with quiet composure, her expression serious yet filled with pride. As she accepted her diploma, she adjusted the round glasses perched on her nose.
"Corina Alistair – Bachelor of Arts in Art and English, Summa Cum Laude."
At the mention of her name, Corina stepped forward gracefully, a warm smile on her face. Her dark eyes sparkled with pride as she accepted her diploma.
Corina was the youngest—a child born from Edward Alistair's forbidden affair with a black woman named Daryl but was still adopted by Penelope Alistair when Daryl died after Corina's birth. But no one knew that secret, because to the outside world, she was a true Alistair. And the other Alistair siblings still loves and accepts her despite all odds.
"Congrats, Corina!" Madison pulled her into a tight hug.
"Welcome to the club," Davis grinned, ruffling Corina's cornrows.
Together, they all headed home to the Alistair mansion.
---
The grand mansion doors opened, yet the atmosphere inside felt cold and empty. The six Alistair siblings stepped into the vast living room, but there was no warm welcome from Edward Alistair, the head of the family.
Rebecca frowned as she glanced around.
"He didn't even bother throwing a celebration."
Victoria scoffed. "Typical Daddy."
Heavy footsteps echoed against the marble floor. Edward Alistair emerged from his study, dressed impeccably in a black suit. His gaze was cold and unreadable as he looked at his children.
"Are you done?" he asked curtly—no smile, no embrace.
"Yeah, we did it. We graduated," Victoria replied sharply.
Edward merely nodded, as if their achievement was insignificant. Without another word, he grabbed his Lamborghini keys from the table and walked past them.
"Good," he said flatly before stepping out the door without a second glance.
The grand mansion doors shut with a resounding thud.
Corina stared at the closed door, her eyes glistening. "He didn't even say congratulations…"
Sadie sighed, her gaze dropping to the floor. "What else did we expect?"
Davis let out a bitter laugh. "Welcome to the Alistair family."
Victoria looked at them all, determination blazing in her eyes.
"We already know who he is. But from now on, we'll prove that we're more than just Edward Alistair's shadow."
Rebecca smirked slightly. "We'll make the world know who the Alistairs truly are."