Pyramid Schemes and Golden Hours

Maya's phone buzzed for the third time that hour. Another TikTok notification from Jordan—her ex-best friend who'd suddenly climbed the social pyramid at Northwood High this semester.

"Ugh, put me out of my misery," Maya groaned, face-planting into her couch.

Barnaby, her dad's ancient golden retriever, thumped his tail sympathetically and rested his chin on her knee. At least someone still liked her.

The whole pyramid scheme thing had started two weeks ago when Jordan discovered some "entrepreneur opportunity" on Instagram. Now she was posting cringey videos about "financial freedom" and "building her empire"—all while trying to recruit everyone they knew into some sketchy energy drink MLM.

"It's not a pyramid scheme, Maya, it's NETWORK MARKETING," Jordan had insisted, eyes wild with that unsettling mix of desperation and excitement.

Right. Because totally normal businesses make you pay $499 for a starter kit.

Maya's phone lit up again. A group chat notification: *"Hey everyone! Jordan's hosting a 'vision board party' tonight! Come learn about an amazing opportunity! 🚀✨"*

The replies flooded in instantly.

*"OMW!"* *"Can't wait!"* *"This is gonna be so lit!"*

Maya stared at the screen, stomach twisting. These were the same people who'd rolled their eyes when Jordan first started this stuff. Now they were all drinking the Kool-Aid because suddenly Jordan was kind of a big deal? The social pyramid at school worked in mysterious ways.

Barnaby whined, nudging her hand with his wet nose.

"You're right, boy," she sighed, scratching behind his ears. "Some things never change. You're still the only one who's real with me."

Her phone chimed one more time. A private message from Jordan:

*"Hey... I know you think this is dumb. But I really want you there. You're still my friend, Maya. Please come? 7pm. My place."*

Maya typed out three different responses and deleted them all. Then she grabbed her hoodie, whistled for Barnaby, and headed out the door.

Some pyramids were worth climbing. And some friendships? Those were worth fighting for—even if it meant sitting through a presentation about overpriced energy drinks while her dog made friends with everyone in the room.

Besides, she'd bring snacks. Jordan's vision board parties definitely needed better snacks.