Found Obsession

Chapter 90: The First Rose

"Well, you guys have fun. I'm going home," Wyatt announced, stretching lazily as he stood up.

He carefully tore the drawing from his notebook and pinned it to the board in the meeting room. "I'll make a copy of this later," he added casually, glancing at the group. "See you guys on Monday."

Without waiting for a response, he grabbed his things and headed for the door, his footsteps echoing as he got into the elevator.

Jonathan and Rose remained behind as the others began to filter out of the room. Will and Paula stopped by the door, turning back one last time.

"Thank you," Paula said softly, her eyes meeting Rose's with a mix of gratitude and sadness. Will nodded in agreement, his expression subdued.

Rose gave them a faint smile, her emotions carefully contained. "Take care," she said, her voice steady.

With a final glance, Will and Paula left.

"Jonathan, I need your help gathering copies of all the cases," Rose whispered, her voice steady but low.

Jonathan studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable, before nodding. "Alright."

For the next few hours, that's exactly what they did. They worked quietly, gathering files, making copies, and organizing details into folders. Rose withdrew her laptop, Mark's written questions, the printed lists 2, 3 and 4. Her hand hesitated over a photograph—their only one together. She stared at it for a long moment before carefully tucking it into her bag.

"Take me home," she whispered, her voice almost breaking.

Jonathan glanced at the bag now full of documents and her laptop. He didn't ask questions, simply nodding. He could tell she had something planned.

After a quiet drive, they finally arrived at her apartment. Rose inhaled sharply as they parked, her hands tightening in her lap. She knew this moment would come.

Raven was gone, and the apartment would feel emptier than ever.

"Rose," Jonathan said softly, breaking the silence. "We can come back later if you're not ready."

Rose shook her head firmly. "Let's go," she whispered.

Jonathan nodded, stepping out and helping her with the bag. Together, they made their way to her apartment. Rose unlocked the door with a shaky hand, pausing for a moment before pushing it open and closing it behind them.

The stillness inside was deafening. It hit her like a wave, the absence of Raven almost tangible. But she clenched her jaw and stepped inside, Jonathan close behind her, offering quiet support.

"So, I remember you told me you found my secret room," Rose whispered, her voice cautious.

Jonathan nodded, his expression neutral but curious.

Rose led him to her bedroom, her movements deliberate. Once they were inside, she quietly closed the door behind them. "I'm going to need your help," she said, gesturing toward her sling. "I can't do this on my own."

Jonathan nodded again, following her instructions without question. With her guidance, he worked carefully to access the hidden entrance, his actions precise and patient. Once the mechanism was revealed, he helped her descend, ensuring she could make her way safely. Jonathan followed, closing the entrance securely behind them.

The air was still, and the faint scent of dust lingered as they stepped inside the secret room. Jonathan's eyes scanned the space, taking in the dim light and its contents with a mix of wonder and intrigue.

"Wow," Jonathan whispered, his eyes scanning the room. The computer, the meticulously arranged case files, and the wall covered with connections and notes on the Golden Knight cases all painted a picture of tireless dedication.