Chapter 2: The Eradication of Shadows

“Everyone, listen up! DJ, kill the track!” Chloe called out, her demanding voice ringing through the powerful sound system.

The pounding music stopped at once. Three hundred guests turned toward her, many peering over designer sunglasses, fixing upon the birthday girl who stood proudly at the edge of the infinity pool.

A heavy silence settled, broken only by the soft movement of chlorinated water against the expensive tiles.

“My gloomy older sister over there in the dark thinks she is too good for our pool party!” Chloe announced into a silver microphone, pointing an accusing finger directly at the shadowed depths of my cabana.

“She has been lurking in a heavy winter sweater all afternoon, ruining the mood. I think it is time we helped her cool down!”