Chapter 1: Sunset in the City of Angels

The warm orange glow of the setting sun cast a magical spell over the bustling streets of Los Angeles as Ashley Frangipane, known to her fans as Halsey, drove down the famous Sunset Boulevard. It had been ten years since she left her hometown in New Jersey, chasing her dreams of becoming a singer. Now, at thirty years old, Ashley had achieved more than she ever thought possible. She was a world-renowned singer, with a devoted fan base and a string of hit songs that had topped the charts. As she navigated through the crowded streets, Ashley's mind wandered to her personal life. Her thoughts were consumed by her three-year-old son, Ender, who was the light of her life. Being a single mother wasn't easy, especially considering her complicated past with Ender's father. The toxic relationship had left emotional scars, but Ashley was determined to provide a stable and loving home for her child. Ashley's phone buzzed, breaking her reverie. She glanced at the screen and saw a text from her current boyfriend, Avan Jogia. "Hey, beautiful. Just got out of a meeting. Can't wait to see you and Ender tonight." Ashley's heart skipped a beat as she typed out a response. She had met Avan a year ago, and their relationship had been a whirlwind romance. The thirty-three-year-old actor had been a fan of her music, and they had quickly bonded over their shared passion for art. As Ashley pulled into her driveway, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the life she had built. Her home, a cozy modern house in a quiet neighborhood, was a sanctuary for her and Ender. She turned off the engine and stepped out of the car, taking a deep breath of the California air. Ashley walked into the house, and the sound of laughter and playful music filled the air. Ender, with his curly brown hair and bright green eyes, was playing with his toys in the living room. Ashley's heart melted as she watched her little boy, and she couldn't wait to spend the evening with him and Avan. Just as Ashley was about to join Ender, her phone rang. It was her manager, calling to discuss an upcoming tour and some new music projects. Ashley took a deep breath, preparing herself for the conversation ahead. Little did she know, this phone call would set off a chain of events that would change her life forever.