Mirror Crown
We arrived at the venue—a private rooftop restaurant that overlooked the city like a king observing his kingdom. Candlelight shimmered from the glass railings, soft jazz floated through the air, and every guest was dressed like they walked out of a billionaire's daydream. But all of it felt like background noise compared to the fire still burning in my chest.
Tasha stepped out first, dressed like royalty herself. All eyes were already on us, but I was calm, precise.
As I handed the valet the keys to the hypercar, I pulled out my phone and texted Amelia.
Text:
> "Find out the name of that officer. I don't want him anywhere near a patrol car again. Strip his badge quietly. The crown has no time for distractions."
I didn't wait for a reply. Amelia always handled things fast and clean.
Tasha caught up to me, linking her arm with mine. "That officer earlier—was that normal?" she asked, softly.
I gave a light laugh. "No. But then again, neither is my life."
We were ushered to our reserved table—center spot, best view, no interruptions. The manager personally welcomed me, his hands trembling slightly as he greeted "Mr. Classic." I could feel the power. Every move I made echoed in this world of wealth and illusion. But under it all, I was still Xavier... a former house staff who once had to sneak half-eaten sandwiches on night shifts.
Now, the world bent for me.
The waiter poured wine I couldn't even pronounce. Tasha talked about something—maybe a film, maybe an upcoming gala—but my mind was elsewhere. Still thinking about how a single mistake could bring this entire façade crashing down. One slip. One wrong answer. One memory I didn't have.
But not tonight.
Tonight, I wore the crown. And I was going to wear it like it was made for me.