7 Lives Apart

Ch 3: Illusive Encounters

Shawn was so into Rose's brand it felt as if a k-pop fan finally got to meet his idol. His eyes sparkled with genuine admiration as he praised the brand's latest collection.

"Your designs this season, they're simply mesmerising. I've been following your brand for a while now, and I must say, I'm captivated. I'd love nothing more than to work with you in the future."

Feeling elated by Shawn's interest, Rose couldn't help but be amazed. "I'm thrilled to hear that you appreciate my brand so much. I would feel honoured to work together."

Their conversation flowed smoothly as they dived into the nuances of design and the creative process. Just as Rose was enjoying this moment, a sudden chill crept down her spine.

Elle's presence halted the conversation like a sharp needle on a vinyl record, bringing back the dusty memories of the time long forgotten.

Elle, the best friend of Rose's victim from three years ago, stood before them.

As Elle started walking in her direction, Rose's pulse quickened. But when she embraced Shawn instead, as if one had found her long-lost friend. Rose's poised facade slowly shattered.

Then her eyes locked onto Rose's, and when she leaned towards her gently, what appeared to be a heartfelt hug carried a silent tension, an exchange of secret animosity between them.

Shawn gave Elle a warm greeting, but was surprised to discover that she had a close relationship with Rose.

"Elle! You know Rose? But how?" Shawn inquired, trying to piece together the puzzle.

Elle's gaze fixated on Rose, as the air surrounding them became a winter breeze. She acknowledged Shawn's query before turning her attention back to Rose.

Memories came rushing back. Rose first ran into Kate in the guise of a friendly coincidence. It was only because of Kate's help and guidance that Rose charmed her way through the social circles of the fashion industry. Playing field like a skilled puppeteer.

But the harmony of their friendship withered just within a year. She recalled their argument that night, the night which became Kate's last.

Rose was the kind of person to take huge risks head on, but a fashion industry is another feat and people here knows it way to well. When she suggested a gamble in the name of business expansion, Kate practically begged her to take it slow but Rose was never the one to be held back by the fears and emotions of someone or anyone. Rose's heartless ambitions crushed Kate's spirit, leaving her protests to be nothing more than silent screams.

Days later, the news of Kate's untimely death sent shockwaves through their social circle. Rose still remembered it as if it was yesterday, how she stood there at Kate's funeral, as a silent figure amidst the grieving crowd.

"We've also crossed paths before, at unfortunate events," Elle stated, her voice tinged with a hint of accusation.

Rose's breath caught in her throat, her composure slowly slipping away as the memories of their shared history played through her mind.

Shawn was confused, unaware of the tension brewing between the two women.

"Yes, it's been a long time," Rose admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. She tried so hard to mask her discomfort, but with Elle right in front of her, it wasn't easy.

The tension between them kept rising like the temperature in summers. What should've been a pleasant conversation now turned into a gloomy silence, all because of an unspoken truth and the buried past.

Shawn, sensing the unease, made a light joke to brighten the mood, but the heaviness in the air stayed the same, making his plans to fall apart.

As the evening grew into the night, Rose found herself torn between excitement and discomfort. This game of dilemma was an unexpected addition to these encounters, and she never signed up for it.