Nestled inside the elite Hillwood University grounds, hidden behind rows of towering oak trees, stood the Hillwood Investment Club Headquarters — a two-story mansion-like structure that gleamed with modern elegance.
The building was mostly glass and concrete, a seamless blend of prestige and sophistication.
Students whispered about it, but few ever saw its inside.
Only the chosen members had the privilege to step beyond its heavy iron gates.
The first floor was a luxurious expanse.
There was a wide living room where club members could lounge on plush leather sofas, a massive flat-screen playing business news or the occasional sports match.
A boardroom with a glossy black table dominated the west wing, often hosting intense strategic meetings.
On the opposite side, a modern kitchen and stylish dining area catered to their needs, alongside a mini-library filled with finance and business books.
Near the staircase sat a marble-lined comfort room, everything polished to perfection.
The second floor was split into two wings — the left wing for the male members, the right wing for the female members.
Each side had its own staircase but was connected through a concrete hallway that ran above the living room, allowing easy access between wings.
Each wing had six rooms with terrace overseeing the living room, designed like high-end hotel suites, complete with built-in cabinets, personal appliances, large bathrooms, and private sitting areas.
Currently, five male members occupied the left wing, while four female members stayed in the right wing.
But today, everyone was gathered in the heart of the headquarters: the Boardroom.
Around the enormous black table sat the powerful heirs of Hillwood’s future.
Lucas Harper of Harper and Co. Industries
Kairo Hyun of Hyun Corporation
Clark and Clint Kennedy, twin national athletes and heirs of Knuckle Apparel
Irene Miller, Lucas's girlfriend and daughter of HM Entertainment’s CEO
Wendy Kingsley, Clark's girlfriend and daughter of the Kingsland Hotel Empire
Maya Grey, Clint's girlfriend and sole heir to Grey Corporation
Lana Harper, Lucas's sister and Kairo’s girlfriend
And, of course, Sebastian Ford, the unofficial king of Hillwood, heir to Ford Design and Build Corporation
The tension in the room was lighthearted yet serious as they debated the final selection of the new member.
Lucas leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table.
"Based on the trials, we all know that Selene Parker is way ahead among the four competitors," he said confidently.
"I agree with Lucas," Kairo added, nodding thoughtfully. "She handled the challenges like someone with actual experience. She wasn’t just guessing — she knew what she was doing."
Lana Harper crossed her legs, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Exactly. Even if she’s an architecture student, her grasp on business and investments is too sharp to ignore."
Maya chimed in, her tone amused, "She acted more like a seasoned entrepreneur than a transfer student."
Sebastian’s fingers drummed impatiently on the table.
His eyes, usually so unreadable, flickered with a shadow of irritation.
"And the rest of you?" Sebastian asked, gesturing toward the twins and their girlfriends.
Irene was the first to answer. "I think she’s impressive. I don't see a problem."
Wendy grinned. "She’s a transfer from Central U. That place only caters to rich kids — she must be loaded or at least smart enough to get in. She’ll fit right in."
Clint shrugged, looking slightly bored. "To me, she feels like new money.
No famous Parker family name comes to mind when it comes to business."
Clark, his twin, nodded in agreement. "Yeah. I’ve never heard of her background either."
Lucas chuckled. "Even if she’s new money, she’s got skills.
If we divide the votes clearly, Selene Parker passes."
"Yup," Kairo agreed easily, flashing a grin at Sebastian. "Only two objected."
Sebastian sat back, arms crossed, scowling lightly.
"You know," Kairo teased, "you’ve been weirdly against her from the start."
"Maybe it's because of the legendary back kick?" Lucas joked, grinning wickedly.
Lana burst out laughing. "Maybe Sebastian's pride still hurts!"
Sebastian glared at them, deadpan. "Not funny."
"So why don’t you like her?" Kairo pressed, smirking.
"No reason," Sebastian said quickly.
The rest of the club members laughed even harder, exchanging knowing glances.
"Yeah, sure no reason," Lucas said between chuckles. "We totally believe you."
Sebastian rolled his eyes. "Fine. Fine! To satisfy all of you, Selene Parker passes the second trial."
Cheers erupted around the room.
"But," Sebastian added, raising a hand, "before she’s fully admitted, I want confirmation of her net worth.
We need to know her actual value in investment — not just her skill."
"Game!" Clint exclaimed.
"I’m in too!" Clark agreed.
"Let’s bet on it," Kairo challenged with a grin. "Let’s see if she’s a hidden heavyweight or just a lucky rookie."
Sebastian smirked darkly. "Fine. What are the stakes?"
"Loser treats everyone to an expensive trip — somewhere far and luxurious!" Lucas declared.
"DEAL!" everyone chorused.
The air buzzed with excitement as they leaned over the table, eager to see whose guess would win.
Only Lana and the girls sighed in amusement.
"Boys and their bets," Lana muttered, shaking her head.
Sebastian’s eyes narrowed slightly as he stared at the paperwork in front of him.
Selene Parker.
There was something about that girl.
Something unpredictable.
And Sebastian Ford hated anything he couldn’t predict or control.