The Web of lies.

•Chapter 3•

Rosalie's POV
  We were engrossed in the movie when Elizabeth suddenly jumped up, exclaiming, "Oh fuck, guys! Do you have something nice to wear for the party tomorrow? I'm completely out of options."

I exchanged a glance with Amara, and we both shrugged. We were equally clueless.

Amara spoke up, "Actually, I have an outfit already. I just need to dig it out. You guys should probably go shopping, though."

Elizabeth's eyes narrowed. "But what about you? Aren't you coming?"

Amara smiled lazily. "Nah, I'm good. I want to stay in and finish this movie marathon. Besides, that cute shop we love might be closed by the time you guys get there."

I hesitated, wrapping my arms around myself. "Do we have to go now? It's freezing outside. I can just wear that blue dress again..."

Elizabeth cut me off, laughing. "Rose, that dress is retired! You've worn it to every party. We'll get you something sexy, new, and fabulous."

She punctuated her words with a playful punch to my stomach, making me giggle.

"Come on, don't bail on me!" Elizabeth pleaded, her eyes sparkling. "I refuse to go alone."

Our laughter filled the room, and Amara chimed in, "Yeah, Rose, don't leave Elizabeth to her fashion disasters."
....
Elizabeth and I arrived at the store, and she began trying on outfits. I played stylist, offering my honest opinions.

Finally, she emerged in a stunning green dress that fell below her knees. Her dark skin and black hair shimmered against the vibrant fabric.

"Rosalie, shut up! I hate you! Oh my god," Elizabeth exclaimed, catching me off guard.

"Huh?" I asked, confused.

"Get something for yourself, already!" she laughed.

I realized I'd been so focused on helping Elizabeth that I'd forgotten about my outfit.

"Oh, right! Let's look," I said.

Elizabeth agreed, and I tried on dress after dress, but she wasn't impressed.

"NO, ROSE! You wear dresses like this all the time. Try something else, babe!" became her refrain.

Just when I thought I'd never find the perfect dress, I spotted it – a show-stopping red number with sequins shimmering under the lights. Fitted, with delicate straps and a sweetheart neckline, it hinted at a sultry slit up the side. Bright, bold, and irresistible.

As I reached for the dress, I felt another hand grasping for it. I turned to see Emma, her eyes flashing with annoyance.

"Can you get your hands off this? I'm trying this on," Emma snapped, her tone dripping with venom.

I raised an eyebrow, taken aback by her hostility. "No, I'm trying it on right now. Sorry. I'm sure there are plenty of other dresses that'll complement you."

I offered a genuine smile, hoping to diffuse the tension.

Emma's scowl deepened, but before she could retort, Kian appeared behind her, whispering something in her ear. Her expression softened, and she released the dress.

"Okay," Emma muttered, her tone still bitter.

I exchanged a surprised glance with Elizabeth, who'd been watching from afar. Emma never backed down without a fight.

"Only because your bitch ass is being polite," Emma added, her venom returning.

Kian's gaze met mine, his expression cold and unfriendly.