Chapter 5
After teaming up with her fake husband, Selina found herself standing outside city hall, feeling a little lost. Pulling out her phone, she scrolled through her contacts. With a hesitant bite of her lip, she tapped a number.
The other line picked up quickly, and a warm, raspy voice, laced with mischief, answered. "Selina, what's going on? Missing me!"
"Lydia," Selina whispered, her voice thick with emotion, her eyes brimming with tears.
"Whoa, what's up? Selina, you sound like you're about to cry. Did the Harvey family mess with you? I swear, they've got another thing coming!"
"No, Lydia... I just really need to see you. Where are you?" Selina said.
"Chill, Selina. I'm in Sokovis. I'll text you the address."
Selina hurried to a posh apartment in downtown Sokovis and almost collided with a striking figure in Pikachu pajamas. "Selina!" They hugged tightly.
"Lydia." It was a hug that felt like coming home. Selina couldn't hold back her tears.
Lydia Wallace's expression softened. She remembered the last time Selina had fallen apart like this—they were penniless students, struggling to make their way. "Come on, let's go upstairs," she said. Once settled, Selina explained everything, and Lydia was furious. "I thought you hit the jackpot with your real family..."
They had all been orphans, learning together under their mentor. When Selina found her birth parents, their whole gang was thrilled for her. They all knew the yearning for family love. Without their mentor's tough love, who knew where they'd be? But no one anticipated the Harvey family's betrayal—selling a fabricated story about finding their long-lost daughter, only to shun her. If Selina hadn't kept it secret, Lydia would have believed all was well. Selina wasn't some stray the Harveys picked up; she was family, flesh and blood. How could they treat her so callously? Lydia sighed.
If Lydia knew the full extent of Selina's difficult past, she would be even more enraged.
"It's done, Lydia. I'm done with them. Once I'm out, I'm free. I gave them everything, and now I'm taking my life back," Selina stated.
Selina wouldn't lie; there was bitterness. But they weren't worth her time. She'd paid a heavy price in the past, and with this second chance, she wanted a life of her own, far from the Harvey family. And if they stood in her way again, they'd regret it.
Lydia said, "Alright, Selina. First thing tomorrow, we'll get your registration sorted. Screw the Harvey family. You've got us—and we've got your back."
"That's right, Lydia. Forget the damned Harvey family. I've got you all, and that's enough," Selina said, her eyes lighting up as she cuddled into Lydia's arm. Lydia, the big sister, stroked Selina's hair as they had done when they were kids in training.
Deep down, Selina was immensely grateful. Even facing the Harvey family's true colors, she still had the love of her friends. The old Selina had been naive, clinging to something that wasn't hers. But not this time—this time, she wouldn't let anything slip through her fingers.
As night fell, S-City's downtown came alive. One hotspot was Starlight Club, an underground gem known for its exclusive vibe. Reservations and tickets were required, and scalpers often inflated prices. This club was a playground for the city's affluent youth.
Starlight Club wasn't just about drinks; it was a music sanctuary, famous for hosting world-class underground bands nightly. Anyone familiar with the rock scene knew Starlight Club—a place known for its premium alcohol, beautiful crowd, and euphoric atmosphere. It was a magnet for party-loving youth.
A sleek BMW convertible pulled up, and Lydia hopped out with Selina. Ditching her sunglasses, Lydia clipped them to her collared t-shirt. She was all rock-chic, in a black leather jacket, knee-high boots, black tights, and the perfect amount of makeup. She transformed from the girl in Pikachu pajamas into a knockout. Her purple contacts added an extra touch.
Selina kept it low-key: a plain white tee, blue jeans, and crisp white sneakers. Her hair, tied with a black rose, cascaded over her shoulders. Her natural look was stunning, especially her starry eyes that seemed to hold the universe's secrets. The club staff checked Lydia's invitation and welcomed them in with a nod of respect.
Starlight Club's decor was otherworldly—a celestial theme with planets and stars against a dark ceiling. The bar smelled amazing, a blend of top-notch spirits. The audience, a mix of the city's posh crowd, lounged on plush Eldorian sofas, drinks in hand, engaged in lively conversation.
Lydia glanced at Selina. "You didn't have to come. Don't you need to sort your papers tomorrow?"
"It's cool, Lydia. I shut the door on the Harvey family, and I'm feeling lighter. I'm just figuring out my next move. Being here with you is enough for now. I'll cheer you on from the crowd."
"Alright," Lydia laughed. "Just wait till you see me pound those drums. Grab a seat anywhere, and here's my card—drinks are on me. I'm heading backstage. See you after the show."