Stolen Crown - EN

Chapter 1

The reflection in her vanity mirror showed her the image of perfection incarnate. Ivy Evercrest adjusted the folds of her emerald silk dress one last time, a deliberate choice that brought out the piercing gleam of her green eyes. The fabric hugged her slender silhouette with natural elegance, while her long honey-blonde hair cascaded in perfect waves over her bare shoulders, capturing the morning light that filtered through the lace curtains of her bedroom.

Twenty-four years old, an MBA from Columbia Business School in hand, and the future stretched before her like a precious gift. Today marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new era. In a few hours, she would officially receive her diploma, the key that would honor the agreement she had made with her parents. A smile lit up her face as she thought of the freedom that awaited her: finally being able to dedicate herself fully to her true passion, photography, while fulfilling her family responsibilities.

"You look magnificent, darling."

Her mother's soft, melodious voice made her jump. In the mirror's reflection, Victoria Carlisle Evercrest appeared, radiant in her cream suit. At fifty, she retained that timeless beauty that turned heads at all of Manhattan's charity galas. Her honey-blonde hair — identical to her daughter's — framed face with fine features marked by natural elegance, and her deep hazel eyes shone with maternal pride.

"Mom," Ivy murmured, turning toward her. "You scared me."

Victoria approached with that fluid grace that characterized her, her delicate steps echoing on the solid oak floor. She placed her perfectly manicured hands on her daughter's shoulders, and Ivy could smell the delicate perfume of jasmine and rose that always accompanied her.

"I'm so proud of you, Ivy. Your father and I... we always knew you were destined for great things." Her voice became more tender, almost moved. "You look like me at your age, but with that extra determination your father gave you. And today... today you finally hold your dream in your hands."

Ivy felt her heart swell with emotion. The agreement she had made with her parents six years earlier had been the result of long family negotiations. Getting her MBA to prove her ability to lead the Evercrest empire, participating in board meetings, but also having the freedom to pursue her artistic passion. A perfect balance between family duty and personal fulfillment.

"Thank you, Mom. I hope to live up to your expectations and honor our agreement."

"You already do, darling." Victoria tenderly caressed her daughter's cheek, her eyes shining with infinite tenderness. "Your father and

I know that you'll brilliantly combine your passion and your duties to the family business. Are you ready? Your father is waiting for us downstairs, and you know how impatient he gets when it comes to punctuality."

Ivy nodded, grabbed her bag, and followed her mother toward the door. Their steps echoed in the paneled corridor of the family mansion.

At the bottom of the grand marble staircase, Maxwell Evercrest was waiting, consulting his watch with that precision of a businessman who left nothing to chance. At fifty-four, he embodied the quiet charisma of an accomplished patriarch. His silver-brown hair was impeccably styled, giving him natural presence. His still athletic stature testified to years of personal discipline, and his dark suit fell perfectly on his elegant silhouette. When he looked up at his daughter descending the steps, his green eyes - identical to Ivy's - lit up with undisguised paternal pride, transforming his usually calculating face into a mask of paternal love.

"My little princess," he said, opening his arms, his deep voice tinged with emotion. "Look at this future graduate!"

Ivy nestled against him, breathing in the familiar scent of his aftershave and feeling the protective warmth of his powerful arms. In this embrace, she became again the little girl who used to climb on his lap to listen to his stories.

"Dad..."

"I'm so proud of you, Ivy." He held her at arm's length to better admire her, his hands firm but tender on her shoulders. "You have the future ahead of you, darling."

"Let's go," he declared, consulting his watch again. "James is waiting for us in the car, and we have a little surprise for you before the ceremony."

Intrigued, Ivy exchanged a knowing look with her mother, who wore a mysterious smile. They left the family mansion on the Upper East Side, this imposing 19th-century brownstone that testified to the Evercrest success.

James, their chauffeur for fifteen years, held open the door of the black Bentley. His weathered but benevolent face lit up when he saw Ivy. This forty-year-old man, with eyes twinkling with mischief, had witnessed Ivy's entire childhood.

"Miss Evercrest, what an honor! Congratulations on your graduation."

"Thank you, James."

The man nodded with emotion, his eyes slightly misting. "I've had the chance to watch you grow up, Miss. From the little girl who photographed everything that moved with her toy camera, to the brilliant young woman you've become. Your passion has never wavered."

Once settled in the car, Maxwell turned to his daughter with an enigmatic smile. "Ivy, before we get to the university, we wanted to give you something."

Victoria took out an elegant black leather case from her bag. "To celebrate not only your graduation, but also the beginning of your professional photography career."

Ivy opened the case with slightly trembling hands and discovered the latest model of the camera of her dreams, accompanied by a series of professional lenses.

"Oh my God! Dad, Mom... this is... this is exactly what I dreamed of!" With tears in her eyes, she hugged them both in turn. "You remember everything!"

"Obviously," Maxwell replied tenderly. "You kept your part of the bargain, we're keeping ours."

As the Bentley glided through Manhattan's streets toward Columbia, Ivy caressed her new camera with palpable emotion. May in New York offered one of the most beautiful urban spectacles. The spring sun bathed the skyscrapers in golden light, and Central Park exploded with new greenery. Passersby seemed happier, as if touched by this summery promise floating in the air.

Maxwell, having put away his phone for once, observed his daughter with satisfaction.

At the university, the excitement was palpable. Entire families converged on the campus, loaded with bouquets and cameras. The future graduates, recognizable by their gowns and mortarboards, fluttered between groups of friends and emotional parents.

Ivy immediately spotted Cameron Blackthorne near the main entrance. At twenty-six, he embodied the perfection of Manhattan's golden boy. His light chestnut hair shone in the sun, perfectly styled with that studied casualness that came naturally to him. His face with regular features — square jaw, straight nose, well-defined eyebrows — was illuminated by that charming smile that melted all feminine hearts within a ten-meter radius. His athletic stature, the result of hours spent in private sports clubs, gave a natural presence to his elegant silhouette. His charcoal gray suit perfectly hugged his build, and his luxury watch caught the light on his wrist.

"Cameron!" Ivy called, waving her hand.

He turned toward her, and his smile widened, revealing perfectly white teeth. His steel-blue eyes sparkled with satisfaction upon seeing her. But what struck Ivy was that he wasn't alone. Beside him, radiant in a coral dress that showed off her generous silhouette, stood Laeticia Monroe.

"My love!" Cameron exclaimed, approaching them with long strides, his confident gait betraying that self-assurance characteristic of Manhattan's heirs.

He kissed Ivy with that theatrical passion that characterized him, his expert hands possessively resting on her waist, then warmly shook Maxwell's hand with that firm businessman's grip, and gallantly kissed Victoria's hand.

"Mr. and Mrs. Evercrest, as resplendent as always."

"Cameron," Maxwell replied with that measured cordiality he reserved for his future son-in-law, sizing up the man with his piercing gaze. "I hope business is going well at Blackthorne Capital."

"As always, Sir," Cameron replied with that confidence that sometimes bordered on arrogance, imperceptibly straightening his shoulders.

Laeticia advanced in turn, undulating with that Hollywood grace she carefully cultivated. At twenty-three, she was strikingly beautiful but calculated. Her golden light chestnut hair fell to her shoulders, framing a face with fine but slightly too perfect features, as if retouched. Her eyes sparkled with constant mischief, and her disarming smile always hid a hint of irony. Her generous silhouette was enhanced by clothes always perfectly chosen to attract attention.

"Ivy! You look absolutely divine!" She kissed her effusively, leaving a trace of gloss on her cheek, her theatrical gestures betraying her acting ambitions. "This color suits you perfectly. Very strategic for photos, I love it!"

I

vy smiled, accustomed to her best friend's slightly acidic remarks. "Laeticia, thank you for coming. Didn't your rehearsals hold you back today?"

"Never for you, darling." Her smile became more authentic for a moment. "Besides, I have fantastic news! I landed a role in Edward Morrison's new play. Off-Broadway, but it's a start! Soon Hollywood!"

"That's wonderful!" Victoria exclaimed politely. "We're delighted for you, Laeticia."

Laeticia's gaze lingered for a moment on the camera Ivy was holding, then on Victoria's diamond necklace, before returning to Ivy with an indecipherable expression.

"Well, darling, you need to join your classmates for the procession. We'll meet up after the ceremony!"

Ivy kissed her loved ones one last time before heading toward the group of MBA program graduates, her new camera slung over her shoulder. The atmosphere was electric, a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. These two intense years were coming to an end.

"Ivy! Over here!"

The warm and familiar voice of Keyron Ashford made her turn around. Her childhood friend was approaching, his gown floating around his elegant and naturally athletic silhouette. At twenty-five, Keyron embodied the discreet elegance of the new generation of lawyers. His amber skin glowed in the spring sun, revealing fine and harmonious features inherited from his mixed origins. His black hair framed an intelligent face with prominent cheekbones and a determined chin. His golden-brown eyes reflected natural intelligence and sincere affection, bordered by long black lashes. His natural presence and imposing stature commanded respect without arrogance.

"Keyron!" Ivy threw herself into his arms. "I'm so happy you're here."

"Did you really think I'd miss this?" He held her tight, his deep voice vibrating with contained emotion. "Congratulations, sweetheart!"

"Not without me!"

Jayla Davenport burst in like a tornado of colors and laughter. At twenty-four, she illuminated everything she touched with her communicative energy and radiant personality. Her perfect ebony skin radiated health and vitality, and her expressive features — large deep brown eyes bordered by long natural lashes, generous smile revealing perfect teeth, high cheekbones that dimpled when she laughed — immediately captivated attention. Her natural hair was styled in a sophisticated chignon adorned with golden pearls that highlighted the grace of her elegant neck. Her silhouette with generous curves was enhanced by her purple dress — her favorite color — which she wore with assumed audacity and natural confidence.

"Jayla!" Ivy hugged her with emotion, feeling her friend's warmth and positive energy envelop her. "You were both here..."

"Obviously!" Jayla brandished her professional camera with a mischievous smile, her expressive gestures accompanying her words.

"Someone has to immortalize this historic moment with equipment worthy of the name. Your future husband may be handsome, but his photography skills leave much to be desired! And I see your parents spoiled you! This model is wonderful!"

Keyron burst out laughing, his deep voice resonating with warmth. "Always so direct, Jayla."

"It's my trademark, sweetie." She put an arm around Ivy's shoulders, her bracelets tinkling delicately. "So, ready?"

"More than ever," Ivy replied, feeling emotion overcome her at her friends' loyalty. "What would I do without you?"

"Careful, emotion alert!" Keyron joked, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "We're going to make your mascara run!"

"Speaking of beauty strategy," Jayla continued with a knowing wink. "I've planned a photo session worthy of a fashion magazine after the ceremony. The whole world needs to see how radiant my best friend is!"

The loudspeakers crackled, announcing the start of the procession. The graduates lined up, in a joyful cacophony of last-minute advice and nervous jokes.

"See you later!" Ivy called to her friends before joining her place, her heart beating with anticipation.

The ceremony unfolded in a kaleidoscope of emotions. When her name rang out over the loudspeakers — "Ivy Evercrest, valedictorian in Master of Business Administration" — she climbed onto the stage with that natural grace she possessed.

Facing the audience, she spotted her family in the front row. Maxwell was photographing frantically, his green eyes shining with pride, Victoria was discreetly wiping away a tear of joy, Cameron was applauding enthusiastically, and Laeticia was smiling.

When her turn came to speak as valedictorian, Ivy approached the microphone with the confidence of a woman born to shine under the spotlight. Her clear and melodious voice was carried to the back of the amphitheater.

"Dear parents, dear professors, dear classmates," she began, sweeping the audience with her confident gaze. "Today, we're not only celebrating the end of our studies, but the beginning of an extraordinary adventure. These years have taught us that success isn't measured only in numbers, but in impact and authenticity."

She paused, letting her gaze linger on her parents. "I particularly want to thank my parents, Maxwell and Victoria Evercrest, who taught me that excellence doesn't exclude passion. They gave me the tools to succeed while supporting me. Their unconditional support is the most beautiful gift they could offer me."

Her voice became more passionate, carried by deep conviction. "We're entering a changing world, where innovation and ethics must dance together. Where every decision we make will shape the future of thousands of people. We have the power to change perspectives."

She concluded with emotion: "I hope all of us never forget where we come from, nor where we're going. To stay true to our values even when storms rage. And above all, to remember that true wealth lies in the bonds we weave and the legacy we leave. So let's go conquer this world, but let's always remain human!"

The ovation was long and warm. In the stands, Maxwell nodded with evident pride, Victoria applauded through tears, and even Cameron seemed impressed by his fiancée's eloquence.

After the ceremony, it was a whirlwind of congratulations and embraces. Photographers followed one another, immortalizing every moment. Cameron grabbed a camera to take more personal shots, but Ivy preferred to use her new gift, discovering with wonder the exceptional quality of the images.

"Come on, beautiful, smile!" he called, shouting clumsily.

"Cameron, let me do it," Ivy said laughing, taking some shots with her new camera. "Look at the difference!"

"Impossible to be more beautiful than that!" he replied, sincerely admiring the result.

James, the chauffeur, approached with emotion, his eyes bright with contained tears. "Miss Ivy, allow me to congratulate you again." His voice broke slightly. "Today, I'm as proud as if you were my own daughter."

"Oh, James!" Ivy hugged him spontaneously, touched by his sincerity. "You've always believed in me."

Margaret, Maxwell's personal assistant for ten years, was waiting her turn with a bouquet of white peonies. "From the entire Evercrest Holdings team, Miss."

"Thank you, Margaret, you're adorable."

Keyron approached with his usual wry smile, his eyes sparkling with affectionate mischief. "So, how does it feel to be officially graduated?"

"Exhilarating and terrifying at the same time," Ivy admitted, testing a new setting on her camera. "I feel like I'm on the eve of a new life."

"That's exactly it!" Jayla exclaimed, joining them, readjusting one of her golden earrings. "And we'll be there to accompany you!"

She brandished her camera. "Come on, group photo!"

Keyron put a protective arm around Ivy and Laeticia's shoulders, Jayla did the same on the other side, and the lens immortalized their eternal complicity. Then there were photos with the parents and Cameron.

"Darling," Maxwell finally said, consulting his watch, "we should leave soon for the Hamptons. Traffic will be heavy at this hour."

"The Hamptons?" Cameron was surprised, frowning slightly. "I thought we were dining in the city?"

"Change of plans," Victoria explained gently. "We wanted to celebrate this as a family."

Cameron frowned more distinctly, his charming mask wavering for an instant. "I see... Unfortunately, I won't be able to accompany you tonight. I have a crucial meeting tomorrow morning with Japanese investors. I absolutely must prepare for it tonight."

"What a shame," Ivy sympathized, a bit disappointed but understanding. "When will you join us?"

"In two or three days maximum. As soon as this deal is closed," he kissed her tenderly, but Ivy noticed his gaze was already elsewhere. "Enjoy these moments with your parents. You deserve it completely."

Laeticia approached, ostensibly checking her phone, her polished nails tapping the screen. "I too, will have to leave you, loves.

They've organized a meeting with an agent for me tonight. The opportunity of my life!"

"Of course," Ivy replied understandingly, accustomed to her friend's increasingly frequent absences. "We'll catch up when you and Cameron return."

The farewell embraces were warm but quick, and soon the Bentley was speeding toward Long Island. Ivy, seated between her parents, watched the landscape roll by.

"You're pensive, darling," Victoria remarked, caressing her daughter's hand.

"I realize everything's going to change now. No more student life, time for responsibilities." She smiled, looking at her camera.

"Thank you again for this extraordinary gift."

"You're ready," Maxwell affirmed with conviction, observing his daughter. "More than ready, even. You have everything it takes to succeed: intelligence, education, instinct, and especially that vision that will make your difference. And you have us, always."

The Evercrest family mansion in the Hamptons welcomed them in the golden light of dusk. This fifteen-room Victorian property, facing the ocean, represented the Evercrest family sanctuary. Here, far from Manhattan's indiscreet gazes, they could simply be themselves.

After a refreshing shower, Ivy joined her parents on the terrace for an intimate dinner prepared by Maria, their longtime cook. The menu was simple but refined: grilled lobster, summer salad with garden herbs, and that vintage champagne Maxwell kept for special occasions.

"To my daughter," he toasted, his eyes shining with emotion, "and to the brilliant future that awaits her!"

"To us," Ivy corrected, raising her glass. "Because without you, without your confidence, none of this would have been possible."

They toasted under the rising stars.

Later, settled in her personal office with her reading glasses on her nose, Ivy sorted through the hundreds of photos taken during the day on her computer, alternating between official shots and those taken with her new camera. The difference in quality was striking.

Her phone vibrated. Group message from her friends.

Keyron: "You were radiant! I'm so proud of you!"

Jayla: "Congratulations again and rest well!"

Ivy: "I miss you already... Thank you for being there today."

Keyron: "Always and forever, princess."

Jayla: "We'll always be there for you. Now go rest, you must be exhausted!"

Ivy smiled, warmed by this sincere love. She noticed Laeticia's absence from their group chat, but didn't really pay attention to it.

Her best friend was increasingly absorbed by her artistic projects these days.

Outside, the ocean murmured its eternal secrets, and Ivy felt carried by a wave of pure optimism.

She was twenty-four, had a prestigious diploma, the love of a wonderful man, faithful friends, and supportive parents. The agreement she had made with her parents six years earlier was finally materializing: she could sit on board meetings, learn the workings of the family business, while developing her photography career.

She thought back to her father's words during their initial negotiations: "If you get your MBA with honors, you'll have proven your ability to lead Evercrest Holdings. But we also want you to be happy, Ivy. If photography is your passion, we'll support it. You can do both, as long as you never neglect your family responsibilities."

This newly acquired freedom filled her with deep joy.

A message arrived on her phone. Cameron.

Cameron: "Beautiful, I hope you're having a good evening. I miss you already."

Ivy: "I miss you too, sweetheart. Enjoy your evening. I love you."

Cameron: "Me too, more than anything. Good night, my princess."

Ivy smiled, warmed by these tender words. In a few months, they would be married, uniting their two families in an alliance that promised to be as profitable as it was romantic. Cameron was the perfect man: handsome, intelligent, ambitious, and he understood her world. Together, they would form a formidable couple in New York's elite.

She turned off the lights in her office and went out onto her bedroom's private terrace. The sea air caressed her skin, carrying that salty freshness that had always soothed her since childhood.

Tomorrow would officially begin her new life. In a week, she would attend her first board meeting. In a month, she was already planning to exhibit some of her photographic works in a SoHo gallery that her parents had encouraged her to contact.

The future belonged to her, and she was ready to conquer it with all the elegance and determination that flowed in her Evercrest veins.

In the perfumed darkness of her room, she fell asleep with a smile on her lips, her new camera placed on the bedside table like a talisman of happiness, lulled by the surf and the intoxication of perfect happiness.