LOGINOn the opposite side of the ballroom, William's expression stiffened almost imperceptibly. Although he and Beatrice had already known that the Anderson family was aware of Rose, neither of them had expected such a public declaration. Beatrice unconsciously tightened her grip around the designer
The whispers throughout the magnificent ballroom continued growing louder with every passing second. What had begun as quiet murmurs exchanged between only a handful of curious guests quickly spread across the entire banquet hall like ripples through still water. The atmosphere, which had been liv
A tall middle aged man stepped inside,.dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit that accentuated his confident bearing. The newcomer carried himself with effortless confidence, an easygoing smile, and the relaxed charm of someone who could make conversation with anyone. As soon as he reached the
The moment Frank and Anne saw her approaching from the distance, both of their faces immediately lit up with unmistakable joy. "There she is," Anne said happily, unable to hide the excitement in her voice. Without waiting for Rose to walk all the way to them, Anne stepped forward with surprising
The following day was none other than the day of the banquet. Beatrice sat elegantly before her dressing mirror while an experienced stylist carefully adjusted the final details of her makeup and hairstyle. A satisfied smile rested comfortably on her lips as she admired her flawless reflection.
Rose folded her hands together on her lap before speaking. "If we arrive together, there'll be rumors. The banquet will be attended by politicians, business leaders, and influential families." She smiled apologetically. "I don't want everyone talking about us before we're ready." She paused briefly
Their waiter arrived shortly after, handing them both leather-bound menus. They placed their orders — grilled salmon for Mr. Reyes and a plate of lemon herb chicken with roasted vegetables for Rose — along with two glasses of sparkling water. With the formalities out of the way, their conversation
Later That Day – School Library, Quiet Section. The library was quiet, filled only with the faint hum of the air conditioner and the gentle rustle of pages. Most students were at lunch, but Rose remained seated at the far end near the tall arched window, surrounded by opened books and notes. She
The next day. It was still early in the school day, just before the second bell. The halls buzzed faintly with the murmur of students heading to first period, but Victoria wasn't in class. She excused herself with the calm assurance of someone used to moving unnoticed—just a quiet nod and a vague
When Rose stepped back into the classroom, the weight of her discovery still clung to her. Kehlani glanced up from her desk, her eyes sharp. “You look like someone who just clawed something out of a grave,” she murmured. Rose slid into her seat with a sigh. “I might have.” Kehlani leaned closer,







