Chapter 3

I aced my interview and got accepted to the Ivy League university.

This was the best opportunity someone from my background could hope for.

The university was far from home. After talking it over with my parents, I decided to rent a small apartment near campus.

I went to a real estate agency, and the agent, Mr. Harrison, had just shown me several properties.

Suddenly, a familiar voice boomed from the doorway.

"Someone needs to help us right now! Show us your best apartments!"

I turned to see Lucas strutting in with Seraphina on his arm, a cocky smirk on his face.

When they saw me, they immediately sauntered over and sneered. "Stella, drop the act. You can't actually afford a place here, can you?"

"I checked. Even if you sold all your old stuff, you couldn't come up with a down payment in a decent neighborhood."

At his words, Mr. Harrison's previously eager demeanor instantly cooled.

I shot back, "I can't afford it, but you two can?"

Seraphina lifted her chin with a smirk. "Of course. I'm getting a fifty million inheritance. I could buy several of these places cash."

Mr. Harrison's eyes lit up, and he hurried over to them.

"Ma'am, how can I assist you today?"

Seraphina raised her chin.

"I want that apartment over there."

Mr. Harrison's eyes sparkled as he launched into his sales pitch.

"Ma'am, you have excellent taste! This is our premium unit with the best location and views in the complex."

"It's only three million—quite reasonable for someone in your position."

"Three million?!"

Lucas and Seraphina froze, clearly shocked.

They hadn't realized apartments in good areas cost that much.

Mr. Harrison added, "If it's a bit steep, we do offer financing options."

Seraphina bristled at the suggestion, pride wounded. She lifted her chin defiantly. "Financing? I'm getting fifty million! I'll pay cash!"

Mr. Harrison's enthusiasm grew even more hearing that.

"If you're interested, we just need a 10% deposit to hold it."

Lucas and Seraphina exchanged nervous glances.

I frowned, losing patience. "I doubt you'll ever see that fifty million. Are you just here wasting everyone's time?"

"If you can't afford it, stop wasting our time and leave!"

Lucas's face turned red with anger. "Shut up! Seraphina *will* get that inheritance. The paperwork just isn't done yet."

I waved them off. "Whatever. I'll take this apartment then."

They both panicked when they heard that.

Seraphina gritted her teeth and stepped forward. "I want this apartment! Just wait! I'll get a loan and pay the deposit right now!"