Episode One: The Perfect Lie

The Parenian Gala was the most awaited night at Parenian High.

Held once every three years, it was more than just a school function it was a glamorous gala, a display of power, wealth, and reputation. Crystal chandeliers glittered above the grand hall, casting golden light across marble floors. Students wore designer gowns and tailored suits, their laughter echoing softly under the music. Teachers smiled proudly while influential parents sat in the front rows, observing everything like judges.

This night celebrated perfection.

At least, that was what everyone believed.

Alex sat casually among the elite students, his posture relaxed, with slick back hair, brown eyes tall ,one hand holding a drink while the other scrolled endlessly through his phone. He looked bored. Being the heir to the richest family in the country meant events like these held little importance to him. Rules never applied, consequences never lasted. People admired him especially girls chasing him for his charm, his confidence, and his careless smile.

Across the hall stood Jessy.

She stood tall, elegant, her presence sharp and commanding. Her family’s influence matched Alex’s, and she carried that power with pride. Jessy despised fake smiles and grand displays, and she despised Alex even more. They had known each other since childhood raised in the same elite circle but their egos clashed endlessly. They avoided each other whenever possible.

The principal stepped onto the stage, his voice calm and proud.

“Welcome to the Parenian Gala,” he announced.

“Tonight, we celebrate discipline, intelligence, and character the values that define our students.”

Applause filled the hall.

Then the lights dimmed.

A large screen behind the stage lit up.

“We will now present a short video prepared by the media committee,” the principal continued.

The video began with loud music and flashing lights.

A winter party from months ago.

Some students laughed, assuming it was harmless.

Then the camera shifted.

A girl appeared on the screen.

Kiya.

A scholarship student. Poor. Quiet. Almost invisible in a school ruled by wealth.

She was crying.

The laughter died instantly.

Five familiar faces entered the frame.

Jeremy.

Sara.

Charlotte.

Jessy.

Alex.

They were from the most powerful and rich and influential family and they were all childhood friend.

Shock spread across the hall.

Sara laughed cruelly, pouring her drink over Kiya’s head.

Charlotte pressed a burning cigarette against Kiya’s cheek, smiling as Kiya screamed in pain.

Jeremy stood too close, his hands touching where they never should have, ignoring her desperate pleas.

Jessy sat nearby, scrolling through her phone.

Alex leaned against the wall, drinking, eyes fixed on his screen.

They didn’t touch her.

But they didn’t stop it either.

The video ended suddenly.

Silence swallowed the hall.

Teachers stared in horror. Parents froze. Students whispered in disbelief.

Everyone remembered Kiya’s disappearance after that winter.

The police had searched for months.

The hall was dead silent.

.

Kiya had vanished after that winter.

The police had searched.

She was never found.

The lights stayed off.

And then

A loud snap echoed from above.

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