Rave & Roses {A Rema Fanfic}

21 - DIVINE

The energy in the room was electric. The sound of Divine's new album filled the space, blending seamlessly with the chatter and laughter of the guests. This was more than a listening party—it was a celebration of success. The album was already climbing charts, and the industry buzz was undeniable.

Everyone who mattered was here: producers, label executives, fellow artists, close friends. Drinks were flowing, cameras flashing, and the mood was pure joy. But there was one noticeable absence.

Zara.

She had a habit of showing up late to events like this, and though I'd grown used to it, tonight it felt different. Maybe because this album was so personal to me—so personal to us. I wanted her to be here, to share in this moment, to feel the energy and pride that came with seeing months of work pay off.

I stood near the DJ booth, my drink untouched, my eyes scanning the room every few minutes. Michael, my producer—and Zara's brother—caught my eye and walked over.

"Yo, you good?" he asked, sipping from his glass.

"Yeah, I'm good," I replied, though my tone didn't sound convincing even to myself.

Michael raised an eyebrow, glancing around. "Looking for someone?"

"Nah, just taking it all in," I lied, shifting my weight from one foot to the other.

He chuckled, clearly unconvinced, but didn't press further. "Well, enjoy it, man. The album's a hit, and everyone's talking about it."

I nodded, forcing a smile. "Thanks, bro."

As Michael walked off, I checked my phone for what felt like the hundredth time. Still nothing from Zara. No text, no missed calls.

"She'll show," I muttered to myself, slipping the phone back into my pocket.

The party went on, the room buzzing with congratulations and excitement. People kept coming up to me, patting my back, praising the album. I smiled and thanked them, but my heart wasn't fully in it. Not without her here.

Finally, about an hour later, the door opened, and she walked in. Zara.

She looked stunning, as always, dressed in a sleek black dress that hugged her figure perfectly, her hair cascading down her shoulders. Heads turned as she entered, and for a moment, it felt like time slowed.

She spotted me across the room, her lips curling into a small, apologetic smile as she made her way over.

"You're late," I said, crossing my arms as she approached.

"I know," she said, her tone soft, almost teasing. "But I'm here now."

I sighed, unable to stay mad. "You always do this, Zaza. You wait until I'm about to lose my mind, then show up looking like that."

She laughed, stepping closer and wrapping her arms around me. "It's part of my charm."

"Yeah, well, it's infuriating."

"But you still love me," she said, her voice low and confident.

I couldn't argue with that. "Yeah, I do," I admitted, pulling her into a hug.

As the music swelled around us and the party carried on, I finally felt like the night was complete. With Zara by my side, everything felt right.

I pulled back slightly, glancing around the room to make sure no one was watching us. To everyone here, Zara and I were nothing more than acquaintances, friends at best. But secretly, I was madly in love with her. It was the kind of love that consumed me, the kind that made every moment with her feel like a secret I wanted to protect.