“Mr White, who sustained severe back injuries from a car accident last month, has resigned as chairman of Berliny Company. The board of directors is now preparing to select a new chairman from Mr. White’s daughters: Alisha White, Alice White, and Alicia White…” The news continued on the television.

Alice White turned to her mother, her olive-black eyes reflecting a mix of apprehension and resolve. Rose, a dignified woman in her fifties with short black hair and sharp, observant eyes, watched her daughter with concern and curiosity.

“What do think will happen now, Mom?” Alice asked, her voice tinged with anxiety.

Rose gave her daughter a reassuring smile. “Feeling scared now?”

Alice sighed deeply, her gaze shifting back to the TV. She clutched a pillow tightly as if it could anchor her swirling emotions.

“I don’t know,” she admitted. “Alicia!” She exclaimed. “She’s always my greatest problem. Always Dad’s favourite, and…” Her voice trailed off as the sitting room door creaked open, and Alicia entered.

Alicia White, the youngest of the family, walked in a striking purple gown adorned with glittering silver stones. Her long, curly black hair framed her face, and her olive-black eyes sparkled with a mixture of confidence and amusement.

“Oh, Alicia!” Alice exclaimed, her surprise evident. “You look stunning. And it’s a surprise to see you here.”

Alicia chuckled warmly. “I’ve missed you, Alice.” She embraced her sister and then turned to their mother. “Mom!” Alicia greeted Rose with a bright smile.

“Ah, my dear,” Rose said, her eyes lighting up with affection. “How have you been? You haven’t checked in since you moved out.”

“I’m sorry, Mom,” Alicia said, walking over to Rose and wrapping her in a hug. “I’ve been swamped with things. I’ve missed you so much.” She laughed lightly, her eyes glistening.

“You’re looking beautiful, my girl,” Rose said, caressing Alicia’s cheek. “Are you coming from somewhere special? You look like you’ve been to a party.”

Alicia nodded, her smile widening. “Yeah, I went to my boyfriend’s birthday party.”

“Boyfriend?” Alice burst out laughing. “Don’t tell me you’re talking about that jerk, Wilson?”

Alicia’s smile faltered, and she turned to Alice, her expression darkening. “What do you mean by that? I’ve told you before to stop badmouthing him. If you don’t like him, fine, but keep it to yourself!”

Rose raised an eyebrow, puzzled. “Wilson? Who is he, and why is Alice calling him a jerk?”

Alicia cleared her throat as Alice was about to speak and turned to her mother with a big smile, “Don’t mind Alice, Mom. Wilson is my boyfriend and the love of my life.”

Rose’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really? It’s unusual to see you so animated about a guy. He must have made quite an impression.”

“Exactly, Mom,” Alicia said, her smile radiant. “I’m surprised myself. He must have stolen my heart.”

“But what about Jeff? You seemed to be dating him. Was I mistaken?” Rose tilted her head, giving Alicia a questioning look.

Alice interjected, “It’s obvious Jeff has feelings for her.”

Alicia glared at Alice. “How would you know? Are you friends with him? Do you know him better than I do?”

Rose, sensing the escalating tension, intervened softly. “Easy, easy, girls. Let’s not fight.”

Alicia’s anger flared. “You need to tell Alice to stay out of my relationship. It’s none of her business.” She glared at Alice before turning back to her mother.

“You’re such a grump, Alicia. I was only joking,” Alice said, exasperated.

“Thanks! I don’t appreciate jokes, Alice. And I’d like to take my leave now.” Alicia stood up, her frustration evident.

“Don’t tell me you’re leaving already?” Rose asked her tone a mix of disappointment and concern.

“I’m sorry, Mom,” Alicia said abruptly. “I need to go.”

“Hold on, Alicia. I don’t—” Rose started, but her words cut off as Mr White entered the room, his secretary, Olive, manoeuvring his wheelchair with careful precision. The room fell silent instantly, the air thick with unspoken tension.

Seeing her father, Alicia’s face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and anger. Without another word, she moved swiftly towards the door. Mr. White’s gaze followed her every step, his expression a blend of fear, longing, and helplessness. As he watched Alicia storm out, his face grew pained, and his hands trembled on the arms of his wheelchair. The sight of his daughter leaving in such a manner cut him deeply, he sighed heavily as he was weighed down by sorrow and regret.

Rose noticed Mr. White’s reaction and exchanged a conspiratorial glance with Alice. “You should go to your room and rest, White,” she said, observing his trembling hands.

Mr. White, aware of his wife’s gaze, placed his hands on his lap to steady them. “I’ll do that,” he agreed quietly. Olive wheeled him away, leaving Rose and Alice in the still room.

Alice’s gaze followed her father’s departure with a cold, irritated look. Once Mr. White was out of sight, she hissed, “He always pisses me off. Everything is always about Alicia. That old fool…” Frustrated, she threw the pillow she was holding and stormed out of the sitting room.

Watching her daughter leave, Rose's lips curved into a sly smile.