Found Obsession

Chapter 39: Halloween

After a nice drive back to the café, Rose and Raven enjoyed the peaceful silence between them, the quiet hum of the Ferrari accompanying their thoughts. There were no more words needed-just the comfort of knowing they had shared something important.

Once back at the café, Rose gave Raven a quick hug, knowing she had to rush to the party. "I'll see you later," she said, giving Raven a quick smile as she moved to the driver's seat.

"Drive safe," Raven teased, though he knew she would probably be speeding all the way back.

Rose chuckled and, with a wave, hurried off. She took a deep breath, already dreading the party but determined to get through it.

As Rose pulled up to the Hansley's building, her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts about Raven. The weight of what he had shared hung heavily on her heart. How could someone do that to a child? The question gnawed at her, leaving her feeling helpless and angry on his behalf. She had so many questions, but she knew now wasn't the time to push for more. He had trusted her with a deeply personal part of his past, and she didn't want to ruin that by prying too much, too soon.

Her own problems seemed insignificant in comparison, and for a moment, she felt a pang of guilt for complaining about her life. Raven had been there for her-even when she hadn't asked for help. He was family to her now, someone she trusted and cared for deeply. But that thought brought back memories of their brief romantic moments, the kisses they'd shared. She cringed, feeling embarrassed and frustrated all over again. How could she be so confused about her feelings? Sometimes she thought there might be something between them, and other times, she was certain he was just like a brother to her.

Her jumbled thoughts had to be pushed aside when she arrived at the Hansley building, the location of the Halloween party. Outside, standing with arms crossed and a look of fury etched on her face, was her mother. Rose sighed. This was going to be a long night.

"You are so irresponsible, Rose!" her mother snapped, her voice low but filled with frustration.

Rose groaned internally, already tuning her out. Her mother’s lectures had become background noise to her life at this point. She was tired of hearing how these events were supposed to be the pinnacle of her success, how she should be grateful to be involved in the high society her mother so loved.

"You have one hour to get ready," her mother hissed, giving her a sharp look that could freeze anyone else in their tracks. Her mother’s eyes narrowed, but before she could say another word, Lucas swooped in.

"Alright, alright, we’re on it! Rose will be ready in no time, and she’ll be the star of the night," he said brightly, grabbing Rose’s arm and pulling her toward the second floor where her dressing room was.

As Lucas led her quickly towards the dressing room, Rose couldn't help but chuckle at the situation. Lucas was always efficient, reminding her so much of Eddy, except for the fact that Lucas was gay, which had made their bond easier and more fun. They often joked and shared gossip, making the chaos of her current life slightly more bearable. But unfortunately, Lucas also followed her mother’s every command without question, which was the downside.

"Come on, darling, let’s get you glamorous for the party," Lucas said, giving her a wink as they rushed through the halls.

She sighed.

“I don’t know how you put up with her,” Rose muttered as Lucas began preparing the outfit.

“Oh honey, I don’t put up with her. I manage her,” Lucas replied, grinning.

Rose chuckled.

As they had previously practiced, Rose and the other models were preparing for a unique fashion show, with Halloween costumes as the centerpiece. The plan was simple: they would start with a grand entry, move through the crowd as hostesses, dance, enjoy the party, and finally, Rose would present the final costume alone, giving a speech about the designer before Kasey took over.