Page 1 of Ella's Masquerade
Chapter One
Ella
Senior Year
School uniforms werethe bane of my existence. What I wouldn’t give for a damn hoodie to hide under.
Today’s gossip surrounded some new kid. A transfer who had to shack up with his rich uncle for unknown reasons. Of course, the student population at Darlington Academy had several theories to discuss.
“I heard he was kicked out of his last school for lighting a teacher on fire.”
“Meghan told me it was because his dad is in jail for embezzling money. So now he’s, like, in hiding or something, with some super-pissed-off people after him.”
“Pretty sure it’s not that. I mean, did you see his car? Can’t buy that limited edition without funds, Cas.”
“Tommy said he’s the son of some mafia boss.”
“Hmm, Tommy would know.”
“Right?”
I rolled my eyes, pushing through the masses to get to my English class. These idiots seriously had too much time on their hands. It wasn’t even first period, and they already had a hoard of backstories crafted for the new guy. Poor fool. He had no idea what kind of hellhole he’d just entered.
Eight more months, I told myself.Then you’re free.
Technically, I was already eighteen and could leave now—something my stepmother enjoyed reminding me of every time she told me to earn my keep.
Alas, I required a degree to access my inheritance.
A stipulation my mother had put in the will.
And I couldn’t exactly enroll myself in a public school without an address to call home.
So I was stuck in this hell until June.
The price we pay for a future, I thought with a snort, taking my usual seat at the back of the room.
I preferred to hide and take notes, which was easier back here away from the other students. Of course, that didn’t stop them from harassing me.
With a sigh, I glanced up at the shadow approaching me. “Yes?” I said by way of greeting.
Charlie Anderson smirked, his too-perfect blond hair slicked back to reveal his classically handsome features.
All the girls adored him—the perpetual playboy and best friend to Dash Charming. The duo pretty much ruled the school, their families wealthier than God himself.
“Now is that any way to greet a prince, Cindersoot?” he drawled, propping his hip against my table.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” I batted my eyes up at him. “Yes, Your Dickishness? How can I amuse you and your asshole friends today?”
He reached out to tug on one of the blonde strands of hair that had fallen out of my bun. I allowed it simply because I learned years ago that fighting back only earned me worse punishments. A lack of reaction, however, usually made them go away.
But not today.
No, the Royal Dick of Darlington Academy wanted something.
And he would toy with me until he got it.
Students began to enter, his back to them all as he considered my blouse and skirt. “Those look a bit big, Cindersoot.”
