Chapter 2: First encounter

“That's the highest disrespect one can get in any relationship. But I warned you about Jerry, Didn't I? You didn't listen, and now look where we are,” Emily stated, attempting to console me.

** A few years ago **

Jerry Jackson, the embodiment of privilege and charm, carries the weight of his inheritance on his shoulders. He's good looking, light skinned, and a spoiled brat. He lost his mum to cancer, and was trained single handedly by his billionaire dad. He attended Diamond High school, and was loved by many; especially the ladies.

There I was. My name is Vivian Smith, beautiful, light skinned, tall and exceptionally intelligent woman. I lost my parents when I was way younger. They were kidnapped: my father was shot dead, while my mother has been missing for years. I grew up with my aunt, who assisted me with the little she had.

Meanwhile, I was in the comfort of my room, excited, and waiting for my aunt to return home. I had just gotten a scholarship to complete my highschool in Diamond High school; an expensive school, which was meant for billionaire’s children.

“Creak!”

“Good afternoon, Aunt.” My aunt, upon entering the house through the open front door, found herself greeted by the sight of me rushing towards her. With a piece of paper held firmly in my hands, I eagerly shared the news of my scholarship offer to attend Diamond High School.

My aunt's face lit up with happiness at this development, realizing that it’d alleviate some of the financial strain, leaving her with more resources for her own son's education expenses. She offered words of encouragement to me, emphasizing the importance of focusing on my studies for the sake of a brighter tomorrow.

Encouraged by my aunt's supportive words, I felt a reason for determination to excel academically. “I’ll make you proud, Aunt,” I said, as we stood there in the doorway, enjoying the glow of the good news. My aunt emphasized her belief in my potential and reminded me to seize this opportunity to shape my future. I vowed to make the most of the scholarship and to work hard towards my goals.

“I'll get to meet rich kids, and be in a fancy school surroundings,” I thought, as I went into my room to rest.

As we parted ways for the evening, my mind was filled with excitement and anticipation for the journey ahead, knowing that my aunt would always be there to cheer me up.

Meanwhile, In the calmness of the night, the sky begins to lighten. It's like a sleepy blanket being pulled away, revealing soft colors that grow brighter with each passing moment. Then, the sun starts to rise, painting the world with its mild sunlight.

As the sun ascends softly, its light spreads, touching everything with warmth and brightness. Shadows diminishes, and the world wakes up. Birds sing, flowers open, and people start their day. It's a beautiful day of light and life, echoing with the morning, as the sun ascends, welcoming us to a fresh day.

“It's morning!” I woke up bright and early, getting ready for my very first day at Diamond High School. I made sure my school uniform was ready and neatly ironed. I also organized all my books and writing materials, making sure I had everything I needed for the day ahead.

“Good morning, Aunt,” I greeted, as I went into the kitchen to have breakfast. My aunt, who had an old car that made funny noises like it was auditioning for a comedy show, would be giving me a ride to school. Despite the car's faults, I was grateful for my aunt's help and looked forward to the journey of my first day at my new school.

Meanwhile, Jerry went into the kitchen to find his breakfast already served. The housekeeper had cooked yam and egg sauce, just the way he liked it. With a glance at his neatly arranged school materials, Jerry made his way to the waiting car, where the driver stood by to drive him to school. With an air of privilege, Jerry took it all for granted, expecting everything to be handed to him on a platter of gold.

That morning, fate had a plan in store for us, as we both found ourselves in the same classroom. Little did we know, our journeys was about to start in a way that would change the course of our day.

As I walked down the school corridors, unaware of the environment, I asked to be directed to my classroom.

In a quiet classroom filled with the soft hum of students preparing for another day of learning, Jerry found himself drawn to a new face.

“Who's that beautiful lady heading towards the class?” He asked himself, smiling.

There I was, sitting quietly on the chair, my eyes focused on the book in front of me. Jerry couldn't help but notice my presence.

With an uneasy flutter in his chest, Jerry was courageous enough to approach me. As he got closer, he noticed the determination in my eyes and the way I held myself with confidence.

He introduced himself, pulling his hand for a handshake. “Hi, I'm Jerry Jackson.”

I wondered for a few seconds, pulling my own hands to that of Jerry's. “I'm Vivian Smith, nice meeting you.”

Soon, we were engaged in a conversation. The girls in the class gazed at Jerry, wondering what he was saying to me, acting all nice.

While we chatted, Jerry couldn't help but wonder about my background. He had overheard classmates gossiping about my family not being financially buoyant, yet there I was, attending Diamond High School, which everyone knew was expensive. It bothered Jerry how someone from such a situation like myself could manage to attend such an expensive school. The thought filled in his mind, stirring up a mix of curiosity and concern as he tried to make sense of it all.

“I'm on scholarship,” I whispered, smiling. I explained proudly that I was on a scholarship, my intelligence and hard work earning me a spot in the prestigious school. My aunt, though not wealthy in material possessions, would always support me the little way she could.

Jerry was really amazed by how strong and determined I was. I faced challenges and never gave up, focused on answering most questions in class. On the other hand, I was really impressed by Jerry's money. I could see he had a lot of it, and that caught my attention.

Thereafter, Jerry felt like he had discovered a special friend in me. He knew my story would stick with him for a long time. Even though Jerry was used to having everything handed to him on a platter of gold, my resilience made him see things differently.

We became better friends as we hung out more, laughing together, studying together, and sometimes talking about serious stuff like life. Jerry thought I was amazing because I was always so humble and graceful, even when things were tough for me. I never complained or looked for pity; instead, I worked hard in school and made the most of my chances.

Jerry bought expensive things for me most of the time, almost every day when we were at school. He wanted to show me how much he appreciated our friendship and how much he admired me.

As we became better friends, Jerry found out more about my life story. He learned about the big sacrifices my aunt made so I could go to school. We didn't have a lot of money, so we lived simply, trying to make ends meet. My aunt worked hard to make sure we had what we needed and to help me follow my dreams of getting an education. He also got information about my parents.

Even though money was tight and we faced a lot of challenges, my aunt never lost faith in me. She always believed in my talents and abilities, and she did everything she could to support me. Jerry was really touched by this and admired me and my aunt even more for our strength and determination.

My determination rubbed off on Jerry, inspiring him to work harder and strive for excellence in his own endeavors, even though he wasn't intelligent enough. He was amazed at my ability to overcome obstacles with resilience and grace, and he found himself grateful for my presence in his life.

Our friendship became a source of strength for both of us, a reminder that with perseverance and support, anything was possible. Jerry cherished the moments we spent together, knowing that he had found a true friend in me, someone who would always be there to lift him up and share in life's joys and challenges.

As we sailed through the highs and lows of high school life together, Jerry and I formed a bond more than just friendship. Jerry was interested to be more than just a friend to me.

“Vivian, now that we're close friends. I'd love you to come over to my place. You haven't visited since we became friends,” Jerry said, inviting me to come over to his father's mansion to visit him at home. His father was out of town, he was known to be a traveler, focused on pursuing more money.

One day, I came to visit. My eyes widened in shock, as I stepped through the amazing front doors, greeted by colorful estate. Every corner seemed adorned with explicit artwork and lavish furnishings.

The magnitude of the mansion's size took my breath away, its precious rooms echoing with the whispers of luxury and privilege. Each step I took led me deeper into a realm of extravagance, and spoke volumes of the family's affluent lifestyle.

I found myself captivated by the stories hidden within the walls, imagining the countless gatherings and celebrations that must have taken place in such a manifestant environment. Each room seemed to hold a tale of its own, whispering secrets of a life lived amidst privilege and prestige. From the fancy furniture to the rich decorations, each part of the house spoke of a family that has every single thing.

And as I roamed the mansion, I couldn't shake the feeling of being transported to a different world, one where extravagance knew no bounds.

“Welcome to my mansion,” he said, guiding me through the house.

“Feel a liberty to wander around,” he added, as he took me upstairs.

Shortly after, he took me to his room. He gazed at me for minutes, thinking if it was love or he was only attracted to my beauty. He wondered why he was suddenly all nice around me.

He reached out and gently took my hands, bringing them close to my beautiful face. With a nervous yet hopeful look in his eyes, he asked, "Will you be my girlfriend?" He glanced in my direction, waiting anxiously for my response, his heart beating fast with anticipation.

“Wow really! Nice. You're rich,” I exclaimed.

With a gentle smile, I met his gaze, my eyes filled with emotion. As I looked into his eyes, I saw a glance of my own hopes and dreams reflected back at me, a vision of love and companionship that filled me with warmth and joy. And in that instant, I knew my answer.

With a soft and heartfelt approval, I nodded, my voice barely heard. "Yes, I'd love to be your girlfriend," I replied.

Jerry smiled, as I approved of his proposal. My nod of agreement filled him with joy and relief, knowing that our future together was now secured by my consent.

He drew me closer, yet I felt nervous, as if it was my first experience being so close to someone.

"Whoa."