~NIKLAUS~
I stand before the mirror, adjusting my shirt collar for what feels like the hundredth time. It's nearly 4 p.m., and the witch has already bombarded my phone with missed calls—over a hundred, last I checked. She's frantic, of course, terrified I won't show up for the auction.
Honestly, I wouldn't mind skipping the whole ordeal. It's the same circus every year—empty chatter, fake smiles, overpriced nonsense. But if I dare miss it, she'll find a way to make me pay for it. And frankly, I don't have the energy for another war with her.
She's donated another outrageous sum just to flaunt her new necklace. That's her game. Public image. Prestige. Power. Never once has family come first.
The door creaks open, and Carlos steps into the room. I catch his reflection in the mirror and turn slightly.
"Yes, Carlos?"
He hesitates. "Uh, the Chairwoman is calling again."
The irritation on his face mirrors my own. I sigh.
