Against All Odds

CHAPTER 1

Note: Before reading, I just wanted to let you know that words inside quotation marks ("sample") mean they are being said verbally. While italicized words inside quotation marks ("sample") are being said in their minds or thoughts. This will apply to the entirety of the book. Happy reading!

Astrid Una Diana Fournier

It's October 28, 2063, and it was finally her 18th birthday, which means one thing.. Responsibilities.

After walking around her birthday venue, Suite De Merveilles, she and her best friend, Maximillian, decided to go to her room to have a quick sightseeing tour before the guests arrived.

They walked in silence, just before Maximillian decided to break it. "Are you scared?" he asked.

"Of what?" she asked.

Max sighed and said "You're 18 now. You hold a quarter of your dad's power."

She laughed and soon made Maximillian laugh as well. "I am not scared, Max. In fact, I am so damn excited about all of this. The power, the money, the boys I can finally meet." She answered right before winking at max.

She looked at him and he looked so flustered. "Why is he so flustered? Don't tell me..." Before she could even continue her thoughts, Maximillian slowly started walking towards her. He slowly approached her face, then to her ears, and whispered "Guests are here. We gotta go, my dear." Then they laughed because they both knew they were running late, for her own party.

They stopped just right before the first step downstairs. He offered his arm before they went to show themselves to all of the guests.

"This is crazy. This is real. Today is my day." Astrid thought, and took Maximillian's arm before starting to walk downstairs. A sea of people greeted their eyes and all the chandelier lights made everything glow.

When they got to the last step, Astrid let go of his arm and waved to all of her guests. Her friends, her dad's affiliates, and her relatives. Oh how she hated her family, but for some reason, she felt as if she could finally forgive and let go of the dread she kept for so long. If it weren't for them, her mom would still be there with her.

Astrid looked back to find Maximillian, and when their eyes met, Maximillian gave her a look of assurance and a warm smile. She ran back to him to ask him to walk with her for the entirety of the greeting session. Of course, he agreed.

While they were walking, she couldn't help but find herself thinking about Maximillian's visuals. He is well-postured, well-dressed, and absolutely good looking. His eyes are brown like honey under the sun and his lips are plump and as red as cherries. Every feature of Max's face tells a story of genetic perfection, from his chiseled jawline to his warm eyes. His dark, tousled hair frames his face effortlessly, adding an irresistible touch of charm to his already flawless appearance. With a smile that could take anyone's heart, his lips convey a hint of mischief and charisma that leaves a lasting impression on all who are fortunate enough to witness it. Max's physique is the epitome of athleticism and refinement. Standing tall and commanding attention with a statuesque build, he has the grace of a pianist and the strength of an athlete. His broad shoulders and ripped arms speak volumes about his dedication to fitness, while his impeccable sense of style effortlessly complements his natural charm.

But even after all of those thoughts, Astrid didn't think anything of it, even after catching herself doing it every now and then.

They finally walked together again and before they even knew it, it was time to present herself in front to blow her candles. Her being in front and her dad standing beside her, he wished her well and announced the power and authority he blessed her. Everyone was caught surprised and started cheering as half of the empire was now under her.

Astrid's dad went down the stage and called Maximillian up, as it was his turn to wish her a happy birthday. He looked at her astonished. To him, Astrid is one of the best things he's ever had. As he walked up the stage, he admired how Astrid's flawless features made her the epitome of beauty. Her luminous skin has a natural glow that is accentuated by her delicate features, which seem to have been carved by the hands of an artist. Her sparkling green, almond-shaped eyes, adorned with luscious lashes, enchant all who are privileged to gaze into them. Her perfectly sculpted eyebrows frame her face with precision, accentuating her magnetic charm. And when she smiles, her pearly white teeth light up the room, giving him joy. Her sleek, lustrous hair perfectly complements her enchanting appearance. She has an innate sense of style that effortlessly blends classic sophistication with a seductive edge. Her fashion choices always make a statement, especially her long red gown that hugs every curve of her body. Oh how he loves seeing all of this.

"Hey Diana..." He starts off by calling her by her third name, which he only does when it's for something special. "You know how special you have been to me since we were kids. We grew up together physically, mentally, and spiritually. Before you blow your candles and say your own wishes, I just want to wish you a Happy Birthday and I love you, my bestie..." He closed his speech and gave her a little kiss on her forehead before heading down the stage to give her back the spotlight.

Before he reached his seat, he gave her another look and they both gave each other a broad smile.

It was finally time for the final part of the party to happen. Astrid had to say her wishes and blow out her candles. No matter how rich they are or how big their empire is, they are going to have the birthday party the traditional way, as per her request.

"I wish for personal growth, a life full of adventures, and a strength so mighty, I can withstand anything as I rule the Fournier empire." She wished before blowing her 18 candles. Applauds from everyone greeted her and she waved one last time as a cue that the party had ended.

--- 1 hour passed ---

"I can't believe I am actually 18 now Max. I have so much responsibility. It's getting into me, I think I'm starting to get scared?" Astrid said, as she and Maximillian looked at the view from his room this time. "Oh dear, don't be. You're strong and you'll do it anyway. I just know it." He chuckles.

Silence once again started to surround them as they admired the view. Little did Astrid know, Max was admiring something else.

"Hey Diana?" He broke the silence which caught Astrid off guard. They looked at each other, and without a single word spoken, they started to be near one another. Astrid hugged him tightly and soon their eyes met. "I wanna kiss her so badly," Max thought, as their gazes deepened.

Max was surprised because Astrid kissed him first... on the lips. It was quick, but their lips wanted more. They kissed each other again, this time a deeper one. Max held onto her face, while Astrid hugged his neck. Without a single thought, they pulled away from each other.

"Oh dear, we... kissed." Astrid laughed as she fixed her hair. "You kissed me first, Diana." Maximillian answered as he let out a smile.

They sat down on the balcony and couldn't help but feel a little flustered about what had just happened.

"I cannot believe she kissed me. Right after wanting her so badly. I love her so badly, yet I can't risk what we have. We kissed. What are we now? Can I engage in something more than a friendshi-" His thoughts got interrupted when Astrid started poking his cheek.

"Why are you so lost in your thoughts Max? You alright?" She asked.

"How dare she ask me that?" Maximillian thought to himself, in disbelief. "Was that kiss nothing to her? Damn."

"Nothing Astrid. I'm fine." He answered.

"Hey Max? Thank you for being here for me all the time. I just want to let you know how great of a best friend you are to me. You are the best best friend I could ever ask for."

Max looked at her, trying not to show his face of defeat. "Right, best friend is what we are." He thought.

"Of course, I know that. I am grateful as well to be your best friend. It's really a blessing and a sense of rest as we both have responsibilities in our own empires. I am just glad that our empires are at peace." Max said as he tried to change the topic.

They look and smile at each other.

"Right, best friend." Max thought, as he started to get lost in his thoughts once again.