Rose Among Thorns

11-School

Rose pov:

I wake up feeling surprisingly well-rested, the dim light from the early morning casting a soft glow across the room. I turn over to check the clock, the numbers blinking back at me: 5:00 a.m. It's far too early, but my body seems to have adjusted to this routine, waking me up before sunrise. A part of me looks forward to the day I can sleep in, when my mind will finally understand that it's okay to relax.

Knowing that trying to fall asleep again is pointless, I roll out of bed and make my way to the bathroom, grabbing a fresh set of clothes on my way. The warm shower feels like a ritual—a moment to collect myself, a small act of care that I have for myself alone. I pull on the jeans I picked out and a simple pullover, one that won't cling to me too closely or reveal too much, a balance between comfort and impression. This will be my first day at school, after all, and I'm determined to look prepared.

Once dressed, I return to my room and begin organizing my closet, carefully putting away the new clothes we bought yesterday. There's more than I realized, especially the dresses. I pause, running my hand over the fabric of one, still surprised by the thoughtfulness of the gesture—people don't usually pick things out for me with such care. I shake off the feeling and move on to the school supplies. I pack my backpack neatly, slipping in each item carefully, then set it by the door, feeling an odd satisfaction in being fully prepared, even if it's ridiculously early.

Lost in my thoughts, I'm startled when my bedroom door opens softly. I glance over and see Charles standing there, leaning casually in the doorway with a gentle smile.

"Hey, sweetheart," he says warmly, his tone soft. "Just thought I'd check in and see if you're feeling better."

For a moment, I freeze, trying to remember when I was sick. Then it hits me—the mall. Right. That must have been the excuse they used to explain why I left in such a rush. I meet his eyes, offering a reassuring smile. "I'm feeling much better. Really," I tell him. "Sleeping helped a lot."

He nods, visibly relieved by my response. "Glad to hear it. Breakfast is ready downstairs whenever you're hungry, and one of the twins will take you to school."

I nod, watching as he gives me a final nod of approval before slipping back out of the room. With a deep breath, I gather my things, the newness of it all settling over me. This is the first time someone's looked after me in this way. It feels...nice.

As I head downstairs, the soft clink of silverware and quiet morning chatter fill the kitchen. A full breakfast is laid out—eggs, toast, and freshly sliced fruit—everything I need to start the day. I help myself to a plate, glancing around the table, feeling almost overwhelmed by the normalcy of it all. The twins sit across from me, grinning like this is the start of some exciting adventure. I can't help but smile back, their enthusiasm strangely comforting.

After breakfast, Luca grabs the car keys and leads me out to a sleek black car parked in the driveway. We climb in, and the comfortable hum of the engine fills the space as he starts the car, settling into the driver's seat with the ease of someone who's used to this route.

"Excited?" he asks, glancing at me with a grin that mirrors the energy he showed at breakfast.

I manage a smile, feeling a mixture of nerves and anticipation fluttering in my stomach. "Something like that," I admit, trying to ignore the creeping self-doubt.

"Don't worry, you'll be fine. Besides," he adds, his tone teasing, "if anyone gives you trouble, you've got three big brothers who aren't afraid to come to the rescue."

I chuckle, letting his words soothe some of my unease. The rest of the drive is quiet, and I find myself looking out the window, taking in the scenery as we approach the school—a sprawling building surrounded by greenery and perfectly kept lawns. A few students are already milling around, chatting in groups or heading inside.