LUCIA'S POV
Wakey wakey sleepy head... My phone chimed and I lazily opened my eyes and picked it up. I had several unread emails and tons of messages. I dropped it back on the bed. I honestly need to rest, I've been busy with my shoot and thankfully I completed the last one two days ago. And the so much anticipated movie, titled 'Are we really friends?' in which I was the leading actress, was finally aired yesterday noon.
I rolled out of my bed, slipped on my rabbit-ears flipflop and dragged my ass to the bathroom. And after brushing my teeth and having a nice warm bath, I stepped out drying my wet hair with a white towel while another was wrapped around my body.
I'm not going anywhere today well except the hospital, it's been four days since i last saw Johnny and that was because I've been busy. I've been thinking about him of late so much especially about his proposal and all he told me. And so finally decided he's right, it's time for me to make amends and turn a new leaf.
I picked up the steaming cup of coffee that was already served by a maid and took a sip. I walked to my window, parted the curtains open and stared down into the beautiful garden, the early morning breeze caressed my cheeks and I smiled. I won't fight about Dan anymore I've decided to let him be afterall he doesn't love me. And Dad? He could do whatever he wants after all I got Johnny. I'm really happy I got to meet loving souls as him and his mom, Dr Davis must be kind too. I really look forward to seeing him and staring into his eyes again, hopefully he'll be off that bed soon and on his feet again. I should go dress up....
I drank a little from my cup and walked back to my vanity while removing the towel from my head and tossing it to my bed. I draw out the chair and sat down, I dropped my almost empty cup and started work on my hair, first with the hairdryer.
Minutes later, I was done dressing up. I picked up my silver purse and walked out of my room, I need to have breakfast. Dad hasn't been around, he's been busy with work at his companies.
Midway down the stairs I paused because of the voices and TV sounds I was hearing from the large living room.
Miss Lucia is such a genius actress.
Yeah, she truly is...
I just wish she can be nicer like the character she acted on this movie...
Are we really friends? Is such a hit guys...
Honestly this is my most favorite of all movies she's ever acted in. This one got me tripping hard even though I'm yet to complete it.... Isn't that Emma.
Once upon a time before I started working here, I was a fan of Queen Lucy.... Someone said sadly.
I like Miss Lucia but she's just too harsh...
Guys let's hurry and return to our work, she'll soon be down and if we are caught? You all know what that means...
Shushhh Alan let's quietly finish this episode, it will soon be over... A girl said.
Those comments got me thinking seriously, I've really done so bad. My workers love me and adore my acting but all I've ever done was maltreat them and threat them badly. I've been a very wicked employer.
I'll definitely start my change from here....
"Guys Miss Lucia is down," Alan who suddenly peeped and saw me, hastily whispered to the rest and they Immediately scampered here and there in terror.
I used to enjoy seeing them scared of my presence but now, I realize how terrible I have been. I never knew my character was this sickening until now. Thanks to John for showing me the light. Although my dad and Penny had advised and cautioned me severally, I wonder why I never listened to them. I'm really thankful for Johnny, he made me realize the mess I was and gave me the courage that I could change and become a better human.
It's really time to make amends Laurel...
I climbed down completely and walked to the dinning room, just as Emma stuttered a greeting on seeing me and tried to scamper into the kitchen. She's the assistant cook....
"Emma," I called stopping her.
"Yes ma'am." She bowed in terror.
"Relax girl. Please have all the workers in this Mansion including the guards assemble at the ballet hall in ten minutes, I need to address you all." I said calmly, while pulling out a chair and sitting down.
"Yes ma'am," she bowed "Miss Lucia are you okay?" She asked in a shaky voice.
"Why?" I asked looking at her.
"Yo..you ca...called my name, you said ple...ase and you didn't yell...I'm sorry Ma'am." She stuttered and bowed. I smiled.
"I'm fine Emma, go do as I say." I said and she bowed and hurried away.
Don't worry, I won't treat you guys badly anymore. I'll become a kind, nice and helpful Luciana Laurel Caden from now on. It's a promise....
I smiled and picked up my spoon, I remove the lid of the bowl and stared at the steaming oatmeal before me. Perfect for a chilly Friday winter morning, good thing winter would be over soon.
I picked up the milk bottle and poured milk into the bowl, I stirred the content and soon began eating.
Ten minutes later✓✓✓
"The reason I called you all here is because... because there's something really important I have to tell you guys." I stared at them as they exchanged curious and scared glances.
"Most of you have worked here for over three years, some more, especially the cook and the assistant head guard, Wayne." Most of them looked so scared right now as they whispered quietly amongst themselves.
"What I'm trying to say is this; I've acted so inhuman and cruel to you guys all this years and I've come to realize how terrible of a person I've been. I'm here to say I'm really sorry for all I did. How I insulted, yelled and hitted a lot of you I'm sincerely so sorry. Wayne I'm really sorry for treating you terribly and for subjecting you to such low level. Zara I'm sorry for slapping you that day you were helping me paint my fingers and paint spilled on me, you weren't at fault clearly. I'm so sorry for being so evil and causing you all pains, I'm sorry again. I hope you all find places in your hearts to forgive me." I said as they all stared at me in shock, their mouth and eyes wide open, the younger girls like Zara wiped tears from their eyes.
I know right?
"I promise to be a better employer from now onwards. And as a token of appreciation from me, I'll be doubling your pays for this month and I'll also increase your salaries." They squealed in Joy one to another and I smiled. "you all have been so patient with me and I really appreciate that. No more bullying or maltreating from me. I'll be kind and nice and from today. Thanks." I said with a painful smile, as memories of how devious I've been to them replayed in my head. I turned around and walked out of the hall.
"Thanks so much Miss Lucia, we forgive you and We love you." They shouted after me.
I smiled and walked into the car park. Phase one of becoming better completed. I have to apologise to Penny too, I've really missed her. She's surely been a true friend more than Katie who never bothered about my bad character, she was always in support of whatever bad decision I was making and she'll even encourage me further. Penny was different, she never hid her disapproval in wrong deeds from me, she'll always voice out her true feelings no matter what... I just wasn't listening to her then, but I'm glad I'm doing so now, with Johnny's help.
I'll go find her as she told me to do when I'm changed, I'll go meet her and apologize sincerely and I know she'll forgive me...
Some guards ran out and took their initial positions. Two of my personal guards came out too and they opened the car door for me and I stepped in. I'm not riding alone to the hospital today, I'm too tired to drive myself there. Soon the ride to the hospital began.
I close my eyes and leaned back on the headrest....
DIVA'S POV
I smiled as I typed on my phone, the guys were arguing on where to hold Cilia's surprise birthday party. Yeah, we created a secret WhatsApp group where we communicate and plan about her birthday which was coming up in five days time.
'Let's just have the party at our residence. That'll be better, and we'll definitely take her unawares, no need to worry about that.' I sent.
'I totally agree with Diva, the duplex is just the perfect plan. It's large enough, and look at the beautiful pool garden.' Tania sent.
I smiled and looked at her, she was sitting on the couch right beside me in the living room, typing on her phone while bubbling a gum and an open novel laying on her laps. Her legs were sprawled out on the table and Carl, yes Carl was massaging them with his sleepy eyes. She finally accepted him but on the condition he'll do whatever she says for a week. Poor Carl, she made him cook thrice for her yesterday night; he's a good cook, and sent him on numerous unnecessary errands.
Carl get me my phone...
Carl I want kimchi...
No Carl, I don't need kimchi again I want french fries...
Carl get me another novel...
Oh Carl, please massage my hands.
Carl my feet hurts...
Carl I need water...
She was acting like a pregnant woman. Carl didn't get to sleep last night till around 3am, he told me. When she finally let him to rest, he fell asleep on the three-sitter couch.
This morning after the early morning exercise she made us do, she made Carl do sit-ups for straight one hour without resting. I smiled as I looked at him, he was dozing off...
"Carl!" She frowned. "You ain't doing it right, start again from this angle." I chuckled, poor boy. I threw him a wink when he glared at me... He's gonna be doing this and lots more for a complete week, he's getting his woman after all.
I turned back to my phone.
'But I don't want it to be obvious, it has to be a real surprise.' Jay sent.
Awnn, lover boy. Why do I feel like there's more than just a surprise birthday party on his part?

'Well I think Jay has a point,' My heartcode; Dan sent.
Yesterday was soooo memorable, I can't love anyone else the way I love him and I'll definitely not let anyone come between us, ever. I'm happy he's my first and he'll definitely be my last in everything concerning romance. I smiled in remembrance of that ethereal kiss, the way his soft lips captured mine was so spectacular. Our kiss was love filled, passionate and promising. He tasted so....
'Guys I think that idea of the pool garden is perfect. I mean it's natural and I'm sure she'll like it.' Kim said, I smiled.
'Me too. But what's her favorite color, food, snacks, drinks...well it's obviously apple drink but what about the rest? Jay I'm trusting you know that already and if you don't, the girls will definitely help.' Roe said.

'Jay should already know everything, they've been on several dates before.' I said.
'I do. So it seems majority supports the pool garden party, I guess we're in then. But, we have to be very discreet about it all, I can't have anything ruin that surprise.' Jay said.
'Alright girls, let's continue this later, Jay and I will be coming at noon. Roe's going somewhere, somewhere...I think he found...' Dan sent.
'Dan!! Not yet bro, please.' Roe sent warningly.
'Are you kidding me? Book head did you finally meet your Mrs Right?' Kim said teasingly.
I sent a laughing emoji.
'Wow! Tell me about it.' Nia said.
'Guys, he isn't sure yet. You all let him be.' Jay said.
'Thanks bro.' Roe said, he sent a mocking emoji and went offline.
I chuckled, raised my head up and stared at the boring news channel displaying on the TV. I rolled my eyes to Alexis and Candace, they were playing videogames at another side of the room. Yeah, Candace flew in yesterday. She heard about Alex from Cilia and when she watched her dance performance, she liked her Immediately, it was a bit surprising because Candy is very selective about her friends. Well infact only Zoe, Nia's younger brother is her friend. But I guess she'll find a good friend in Alex and likewise Alex who never really had friends like she told me except one, Hector. I'm yet to meet him though. Candy would be staying with us for some days before she'll go back to Los Angeles. She had insisted on coming here just so she could see Alex and since she's here, Alex too is staying with us until Candy returns back home. She'll still be going to school from here though...
Alex is so lovable and cute, she can't be resisted. Even my mom wants to meet her and I really love that she do. It just feels like she's my younger sister, I guess this is how it would have been with Ariel.
Where's Kim and Lia? Well, Lia is still upstairs, she probably forgot today is a Friday. See what Love's doing to her? Lol
Kim? I saw her enter the kitchen, like fifteen minutes ago. I'll leave you to guess what's she doing there.
Speaking of the girls...Kim walked out of the kitchen munching a banana and Lia was climbing down the stairs, speaking into a camera, still on her pajamas. Her other hand was holding an ice cream can, her hair slightly disheveled. It was growing rapidly just as she wanted. She stopped cutting it so the length right now was mid back. She still maintained the bob at the front though. I turned sideways at Tania that's when I noticed Carl wasn't there anymore.
"Where is he?" I asked her.
"I sent him to sleep in my room." She said with a chuckle and I smiled.
"He needs it." I said and turned back to Lia, she remembered.
"...yeah guys the house is full right now, yes we are living off campus now. That's my little sister and her new friend Alexis over there." She turned the camera to the girls. "yes DSD members live together now. Isn't that awesome," the camera was now facing us, Kim was sitting down on the piano stool now.
"I also heard about this new movie; are we really friends? that came out yesterday, everyone is talking about it. Girls say hi to our fans." She turned the camera to us again and we smiled.
"What's up people? I hope you all are safe and fine? Always remember we love you guys." I said.
"Yeah guys, thanks for your support as always. We'll be having something great for you guys soonest. I hope you all anticipate the hit, trust me. You're all gonna love it. Rosy loves you all." Nia said with a smile.
Kim stood up and picked up the TV remote from the center table.
"Guys I'm new to this team and I'm extremely glad to be here. Most of you know me already. I also heard about this movie and just as it's said to be superb, I hope we enjoy watching it, you guys should too. I love you all." She smiled and changed the TV channel.
"Alright guys, good bye for now. Anticipate our new dance video. We love you." Lia smiled and disconnected the camera.
"You'll be surprised if I tell you girls the lead actress of this new movie." Lia said plopping down on a couch as she opened her can.
"Who?" I asked.
"Is it Leona Humphrey?" Tania asked.
"No. It's a girl from your campus, Queen Lucy." Kim said.
"What!" Nia and I exclaimed.
"Yeah, guys it's starting." Lia said and we turned our attention to the TV.
"According to the trailer and plot, it's a movie about two supposed best friends who had misunderstandings and blah blah blah... Let's find out girls."
"You're sick Lia, see how you attracted our attention when you really don't know a thing." Tania said and we laughed.
"Popcorn and fruit drinks please." I said relaxing on the couch and turning my attention fully to the television, it's weekend after all.
"I'll get that," Kim said and ran out. We laughed.
LUCIA'S POV
I already arrived at the hospital and my guards were waiting outside. Immediately I stepped in, several people began to greet and praise me familiarly, I even signed out some autographs for some people and a sick teenage girl that was being pushed away in a wheelchair by a nurse, begged to hug me, I did hugged her and I was happy. If it were before I wouldn't have hugged her. I'm really in love with this new me.
"Queen Lucy you're welcome," the receptionist said with a wave and smile when she saw me. I smiled at her.
"I'm watching your latest movie and I swear I love it." She squealed turning her phone for me to see. She truly was. With the way it's going, I'm sure this movie would be the biggest hit in my career and I might win the award for the best young female actress of the year again .
"Thanks," I smiled at her and walked to the elevator.
Soon I was walking along the hallway to Johnny's room. I reached and was about opening it when I heard a strange female voice, I paused and listened.
"...I'm really sorry for not coming to visit you all this while, I didn't know you were back in America Elvin. But I'm really glad I'm here right now. So tell me about it."
"At least you're here now Elvira, that's enough for me."
What??? Is that his girlfriend perhaps? No I mean ex... maybe shit! Lucia.
Elvin? Who's Elvin, is that Johnny's name too? I peeped through the transparent side of the door and my eyes caught a gold coloured long-haired girl. Her back was turned to me and Johnny was sitting on his bed smiling at her.
I frowned, why is he smiling at another girl when he says he love me? I hastily opened the door and stepped in. And they both turned to me.
Oh my God!! What the heck!!! What's Goldie Davis doing here?
No wonder about the heavy security escorts I saw outside...
"Elvin who's she? Is she the one you've been trying to tell me about?" She asked looking at me.
"Elvira this is..."
"Wait! I know you." She furrowed her brows. "Aren't you Queen Lucy the popular actress? I heard about the latest movie you featured in, it was released yesterday right? Elvin where's the remote of this TV? I need to check that channel I heard of that's showing are we really friends? Movie." She said standing up instantly as her eyes scanned around frantically.
"It's...over there." He said throwing me a wink. How can he do that in a situation like this? Johnny is sick. And why is she calling him Elvin?

I watched her pick it up and changed the channel to the one that's showing the movie I acted in.
"It's really you. It's truly really you. Wow! It's a pleasure to meet you Queen Lucy." She walked over to me, stretching her hand. "I'm..."
"Singer Goldie Davis, it's nice to meet you too." I completed for her as I took her hand and she smiled.
"You must be wondering why she's here. Well I'll introduce you guys properly, Laurel meet my twin sister Elvira, Goldie's just a nickname she became famous with because of her obsession for gold colour. Elvira she's the reason I came to America." Johnny explained and to say I was shocked was an understatement.
You say what now? The surname Davis, why didn't I ever thought of that? The sister his mom referred to that day was her? I stared at them both still shocked, the only similarity between them was the hair and skin colour and slightly the eyes.
I was once hating on his sister? Dan's ex-girlfriend? Oh my God! Is this fucked up?
"Your name is Elvin also and she's your sister?" I asked shocked.
"I know right? Yeah, that's the name family calls me but John is my first name but many prefer calling me Johnny so I'm stucked with the name Johnny Davis Instead of John Davis. Elvira left home as a teenager because of her career and never returned till now." He said. And she gave him a sad look.
"Wow!" I mouthed.
"You're welcome then," I smiled at her. I was jealous of this girl before but see how fate is now slapping me to my face. I'm glad I didn't do anything stupid, not like I could anyway.
"Thanks dear." She smiled and I looked at her, she's beautiful and there was definitely a gold in her outfit as usual. Obsess much...
But as she's here I have a feeling she'll want to check on Daniel. Hmm, dad should really cut off the marriage proposal, I don't want any problem. As if reading my thoughts, she asked.
"Uhmm guys there's this news about Daniel Roberts dating someone in your campus. Is that really legit?" She asked. I gave John an uncertain look, he shrugged.
"Yeah, it certainly is." I said watching her expression. She smiled painfully. Hmm what'll happen now? Isn't she still dating Xavier?
"Okay thanks. I'll...I'll go check on mom John, she needs to forgive me at least." She said and walked out. What's with her?
I looked at John, he smiled and beckoned me closer...
"Don't worry about her, she'll be fine. Although she's gonna have a hard time apologizing to dad, what she did broke him seriously, all of us." He said and I smiled and walked closer to him. I sat down beside him on the bed and took his hand.
"Who's older? And how old are you?" I asked curiously. He chuckled.
"I'm definitely older, by just two mins though and I'm just two years older than you." He said. They are 23 then...
"Sorry for not coming two days earlier. Was busy with my shoot. How are you feeling now?" I asked looking at him.
"Better, I'll be discharged very soon. I've missed you, can I have your number? There's no way you're objecting." He said and I smiled.
"I'm definitely not, John. Are you able to move now? I mean your leg." I asked looking at his leg.
"Yeah, but with clutches though. My therapist have been taking me on morning and evening strolls." He said with a smile.
"Okay." I smiled.
"Now that you're here, let's watch this your movie that everyone's been talking about together. Shall we?"
"Of course." I chuckled.
PENNY'S POV
How I wish Lucia can be as nice in reality as the character she acted in this movie. Such an epic, interesting movie. If she can be as nice, we'll be fine. I really miss her already, so much that I'm wondering if leaving her was a right choice.
I breathe in heavily and tapped the screen of the phone, off.
I was sitting on a bench under some umbrella trees few blocks away from my faculty. I stared into space as some students walked to and fro the street. Just then my phone rang, it's my sister and I picked it up.
"Hey Anna," I said.
"Emerald I just called to Inform you, I'll be coming to America in two days due to father's command." She said.
"What!" I said in surprise.
"Yeah, he says I need to come see my...that fiancé I care less about you can imagine that? Gosh, I just wish I'm as free as you're, heavens know I don't like this guy, I'm in love with someone else but father won't hear of it. Well I'll get to see you after such a long time and that's something to be happy about right? Maybe if you're here, you would have helped me talk some senses into him." She complained bitterly.
"Awnn, and I thought I'll be the one doing the visiting first. I'm sorry Annie." I said poutingly like she could see me.
"I totally understand Emerald, just prepare for me okay? Besides I'll get to see what's been keeping you stuck up there for many years now. I'll also get a breathe of fresh air away from this demanding life. I'll also see Madame Barbara after such a long time." She said almost squealing. I smiled. Madame Barbara is my Foster mother, she was my mother's best friend.
"Alright dearie. I'm also glad about this news in a way, I'll be waiting Annie. I love you never forget that." I said.
"I love you too sis. Goodbye and take care. I'll see you soon." She said and hung up.
Hmm this is news. Well I'll finally get to see that compulsory fiancé of hers... I wonder how tall she'll be now. I smiled Into space.
"Mind if I join you my lady?" I looked up and just as I expected, it was him.
"Sure your highness." I said jokingly and he smiled and sat down beside me.
"I really have to do something about this title right?" He said calmly. I chuckled, he's so meek and humble. That's very spectacular...
"So, what are you doing here all alone?" Roe asked as he stared at me.
"Nothing really, just enjoying the view I guess." I smiled.
"Okay then, can you tell me more about yourself? Your family, your country?" He asked.
Can I really do that? Am I ready to expose my identity? I don't think so. So what do I do? What do I say?
"Uhmm..." I was saying when his phone suddenly rang.
"I'm really sorry Penny but I have to go now." He said as he stood up immediately.
"It's alright Roe. It's fine." I smiled and he nodded and hurriedly walked away. Picking his call as he did so.
Some other time your highness, some other time...