As Viola got off the plane, she inhaled the alluring San Francisco's air, a city she had left many years ago. Her parents had longed for her to attend a school in California, but she is a free spirit. She relishes her independence.
Before her departure at the age of 18, she dwelt with her grandmother at the Linn Mansion. Her grandmother was her childhood companion, as her parents' fun for life consumed their time. After eight years of being apart, she has returned, and it seems she is here to stay.
"O. M. G! Viola, you have grown so tall, and your beauty! Gosh!" Jojo exclaimed at the top of her lungs, capturing the attention of bystanders. Viola spent her young years with Jojo, one of her closest friends, who resides near the Linn Mansion.
When she left eight years ago, she knew Jojo was saddened. Despite her departure, they maintained their friendship through consistent communication. And now, as they reunited, she simply rolled her eyes. "Jojo, we Facetimed yesterday. I informed you to come pick me up." Jojo drew her in for a tight embrace.
"My friend, I have deeply missed you." After letting go, she took Viola’s luggage. "Are you here for the long haul?" Jojo pondered.
Viola sighed. "It appears my adventures have concluded. I am prepared to take over the Linn business." As she exited the airport, she held her head high. In all honesty, Viola was not yet prepared to bid farewell to her escapades. For years, attending a fashion institution in Italy has been exhilarating, allowing her the freedom to do as she pleases. And during that time, she even fell in love with Dusty. They are now two in their relationship, and he has vowed to visit her and meet her parents.
"Come on and hop in," urged Jojo as she unlocked the doors. With a grateful nod, Viola slid into the passenger seat. "Where shall I take you?" Jojo asked.
Viola settled back into the chair, facing Jojo. "Home. Take me home." She said, closing her eyes as she felt the cool evening breeze through the open window. She couldn't wait to surprise her family, especially her unsuspecting grandmother, Avery Linn
However, Jojo had different plans. "No, I'm not taking you to the Linns' mansion," she stated firmly.
Viola's eyes flew open, and she turned to look at her, confused. "Why not?"
Jojo chuckled, her foot pressing down on the accelerator. "Because, my dear, I am taking you hostage."
Viola's heart immediately began to race as she clung to her seatbelt. Was she serious? Was she really abducting her?
Jojo chuckled. "Viola, you can't go home. Not yet," she continued, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You've only just returned to San Francisco. Enjoy your freedom while you can, because once you take over the family business, it won't be so easy."
She was right, Viola pondered. Her grandmother was strict, to say the least. She doesn’t even allow alcohol in the mansion.
Viola let out a sigh, her thoughts drifting to her family. But she quickly pushed them aside. Tonight was supposed to be about fun and relaxation, not stress and family drama. "Fine, where are you taking us?" she asked, resigned.
Jojo's lips curled into a mischievous smile. "There's a club nearby that's supposed to have a huge crowd tonight."
"A club? Are you insane?" Viola exclaimed.
"What? Maybe you'll find a hot date there," Jojo teased.
Viola crossed her arms and pouted. "I already have a boyfriend, Jojo, and we're planning a wedding soon." she gestured to her outfit, clearly not appropriate for a club. "I'm not dressed for it, so I think I'll pass."
"Trust me, Viola, you're all set to go," Jojo assured, taking control of the wheels with one hand while the other skillfully adjusted Viola’s hair. In addition to her flat sandals, she was clad in a flowing, backless printed gown and a denim jacket. "No one will suspect you as the Linn heiress. People are eagerly anticipating your return. By the way, I heard from your mother."
Viola rolled her eyes. "Please tell me you didn't inform her of my arrival today."
Jojo replied, "I did not. Even if I do, she isn’t around and hasn't been for years.”
“Yeah. Her and dad are preferably somewhere making out on an island.” Viola rolled her eyes. “Aren’t they just too old for that?” Jojo chuckled as she smoothly brought the car to a stop. Viola peeked outside for a brief moment, leaning against the window. "Are we there?"
Jojo opened the door and stepped out, emerging from the car to assist her. "Here we are, at the Tropic Thunder," she announced, her eyes scanning Viola’s attire with a critical gaze.
"What is it?" Viola inquired.
"We must rid you of that jacket," Jojo declared.
Viola immediately crossed her arms in defense, stating, "Absolutely not. You are not touching my jacket," preventing Jojo from attempting to take it from her.
"Come on, Viola Linn. We want you to enjoy your return. Luckily, no one knows the heiress's appearance." Viola sighed, realizing Jojo was right. She needed to fully commit to this charade and finish the evening swiftly. Goodness, she cannot wait for this night to be over.
After Jojo retrieved Viola's jacket and placed it in the car, they made their way inside the bustling club. As she had predicted, there were countless individuals present.
"Follow me," Jojo ordered, seizing Viola's hand as she pulled her towards the bar. "Two shots of your strongest liquor, please," she requested from the bartender.