Sub Rosa Ties ( A High School Dark Romance)

Zera

I still remember my first day at Meadow High. I was incredibly nervous and had even told my mom that we should reconsider my decision to change schools.

But she encouraged me, telling me to ignore the rich kids and focus on myself. And that's exactly what I did-for two years-until Gerard came crashing into my life in a way I never expected.

Yesterday was my final day at Meadow High. I had graduated. We both had-Gerard and I. We all did. It was as exhilarating and exciting as I had imagined, and equally as chaotic.

But right now, as I stood near the familiar pool, gazing into the distance, a faint smile playing on my lips, every thought of my high school graduation vanished.

It was Gerard.

His lips moved eagerly as he stood amidst a circle of his father's business associates, conveying his points with fervor as they all listened attentively. He had finally confided in me about the main issue between him and his father and how he had disliked the idea of becoming his father's successor.

Yet, a few days ago, everything had changed.

Today is his mom's birthday, and it seems a new Gerard has emerged. He lifted his glass of wine slowly into the air and said a few words with a smile.

The rest followed suit, murmuring after him, and a slight chuckle escaped my lips. With his newfound attitude, he would make the best CEO ever.

The chilly evening air stung my face sharply, and I sniffled, wrapping my arms tightly around myself. Earlier, Gerard had chosen a long-sleeved gown for me to wear, but I had insisted on this one. Now, I regret my decision.

"Miss Zera," my head turned sharply to the left at the voice of a maid, clad in their typical uniform, staring at me.

"Yes?"

"We're having some trouble with where to place the rest of the equipment. Mrs. Callon asked us to consult you for the..." Her words raced through my mind as I listened intently, quickly formulating a solution.

Gerard's mum had entrusted me with a quarter of the planning for her birthday, despite hiring event planners and every other possible resource.

She mentioned it was something she had always wanted to do for her son's girlfriend, and now was the perfect opportunity.

"Follow me, please..." I whispered, delicately holding up the shimmering black gown to ensure ease of movement as I walked past the maid.

The soft fabric flowed around me, catching the light with each step. It didn't take long before we managed to resolve the issues.

"This would be perfect. It should go right here. We're nearly finished with the event anyway," I spoke to an elderly woman, though her attention seemed divided.

Her gaze lingered on my face, tracing every contour with a thoughtful intensity.

"So, what do you think?"

"That's... uh... fantastic," she stammered slightly, blinking rapidly as she tried to regain her focus. "But I must say, you are absolutely stunning."

A genuine smile spread across my lips at the unexpected compliment. "Thank you."

"Zera..." I turned slowly at the sound of the voice, my eyes widening in shock as I saw who it was. Black hair with subtle blue highlights framed a strikingly beautiful face, complemented by an elegant grey gown that accentuated her slight curves. It was Eleonora.

"Eleonora?"

She closed the distance between us swiftly, pulling me into a tight hug, her arms wrapping around me securely.