Found Obsession

Chapter 83: Elijah's Visit

November 10, 2005

Rose's eyes fluttered open, the dull ache in her back flaring into a sharp, searing pain as her memories rushed back to her. She was lying face down on her bed, the softness of the sheets doing little to ease the discomfort. Sweat clung to her forehead, her body still weak and trembling.

"Rose?" a familiar voice called softly. She turned her head slightly, her vision focusing on Raven, who leaned down beside her, his face etched with worry.

She managed a faint smile. "Water," she whispered, her voice raspy and dry.

Without hesitation, Raven stood and fetched a glass of water. Kneeling beside her again, he gently placed a straw against her lips, steadying the glass as she took small, slow sips. The cool liquid soothed her parched throat, and she sighed softly in relief.

"Were they arrested?" she asked, her voice weak but insistent.

Raven looked at her, his expression softening as he nodded. "They were due to the pressure of the country it was done quickly," he said, his voice steady and reassuring. "All of the people involved have been arrested and sentenced."

Rose let out a long breath, a wave of relief washing over her. Her thoughts drifted to Edward, and a small smile tugged at her lips despite the pain. Justice, she thought, her heart easing slightly.

Raven took her hand in his, holding it tightly as he spoke again, his voice thick with guilt. "No one lifted a finger to help you," he said, his tone filled with regret. "Not one of us."

Rose squeezed his hand gently, her eyes meeting his. "Hey," she whispered, her voice soft but firm, "I made you a promise."

Raven swallowed hard, his emotions visible in the way his grip tightened slightly around her hand. He looked down for a moment, gathering himself, before meeting her gaze again. 

Raven leaned closer, his voice a low whisper. "Jonathan is waiting outside. He hasn't been able to see you out of guilt."

Rose tried to roll her eyes, but even the slightest movement sent a sharp pain through her. Instead, she sighed softly. "Call him in for me please," she said.

Raven nodded and stood, stepping out to get Jonathan. As she waited, Rose glanced around, taking in her surroundings. The sterile smell of antiseptic filled the air, and she realized she was in a hospital gown, her back wrapped in what she assumed were several layers of gauze beneath the blanket covering her.

Moments later, Jonathan entered, his presence heavy with guilt. His eyes met hers, and she saw the storm of regret and sorrow reflected in them. He looked as though he hadn't slept in days, his face pale and drawn.

Rose offered him a small, comforting smile. "Jonathan," she whispered, her voice soft but steady. "It's okay."

Jonathan's jaw tightened, and he shook his head. "It's not okay," he said, his voice filled with emotion and frustration. He moved closer, kneeling beside her bed, his hand reaching for hers. Pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead, he closed his eyes, his grip firm yet careful.

"I won't forgive myself," he said, his voice breaking slightly. He kissed her hand, lingering as though grounding himself in the gesture.

Rose looked at him, her expression thoughtful despite the pain she felt. "Jonathan," she said softly, her tone measured, "would you have preferred someone else to be in charge of me and you removed?"

His head snapped up, his eyes searching hers. For a moment, he didn't respond, his lips pressed into a thin line. Then he squeezed her hand tightly, as though the very thought pained him.