The air was alive with laughter and music, the lavish party at the Richer family estate in full swing. Ethan, 19, stood by the pool, sipping champagne and surveying the crowd. His parents, James and Emily, mingled with guests, beaming with pride. The warm glow of string lights and the soft lapping of the pool's water against the shore created a serene ambiance.
Ethan's life was one of luxury and privilege, his family's wealth and influence unparalleled in Los Angeles. He had always taken it for granted, never questioning the extravagant lifestyle. His parents had built a fortune through innovative business ventures and strategic investments.
As he chattered with friends, Alex and Sofia, Ethan couldn't help but feel a sense of boredom. These parties were routine,a never-ending cycle of socialising and small talk.
"Hey, Ethan, have you heard the latest about the Smiths?"
Sofia asked, her voice dripping with gossip.
Ethan smiled, playing along "No, what's the scoop?"
Just then, a shiver ran down his spine. A figure in black, dressed impeccably, stood at the edge of the party. Ethan's gaze met the figure's, and for an instant, he felt a jolt of unease.
"Who's that?" Ethan asked Alex.
"Never seen him before," Alex replied, shrugging.
Ethan dismissed the feeling, attributing it to paranoia. He had grown accustomed to security personnel blending into the background. The music paused, then James Richer took the stage, announcing a special surprise. Ethan's heart swelled with pride as his father revealed a charitable foundation in their name.
"As many of you know, my family has been blessed with success," James began. "Tonight, we launch the Richer foundation, dedicated to supporting education and healthcare initiatives worldwide."
As applause erupted, the figure in black vanished into the crowd.
Ethan's gaze lingered, searching for the mysterious figure.
"Congratulations, Dad" Ethan exclaimed, embracing his father.
His mother, Emily joined them, beaming."We're so proud of you, Ethan. You're going to make a difference in this world."
Ethan's heart swelled with emotion.
The music resumed, and the party continued.
But Ethan's unease lingered. He excused himself, grabbing a glass of water from the bar.
That's when he saw the figure again. This time something was off.
The figure's eyes locked into Ethan's, and a chill ran down his spine.Ethan tried to shake off the feeling, telling himself that he was being ridiculous.
But the voice in his head persisted. Something is wrong.
Ethan's world shattered.
A scream pierced the night air. Ethan's mother stumbled backward, a crimson stain spreading across her chest.
"Mom!" Ethan shouted, rushing toward her.
The figure in black reappeared, methodically executing Ethan's family and closest friends.
Ethan's mind reeled, horror and grief suffocating him. He tried to process what was happening. But it was too late. As the last of his family fell, Ethan's anger and despair reached a boiling point.The world around him started to blur.
Ethan vanished.
End of Chapter 1