~LAUREN’S POV~

I stared at the chaotic mess in my wardrobe, a sea of outdated clothes staring back at me like a cruel reminder. It had been months since I’d gone shopping, months since I’d felt the need to care about my appearance.

I sighed, turning away, and running a hand through my tangled hair. I was tired—physically, mentally, emotionally.

And I seriously didn’t want to attend this ball.

But I had no choice.

My camera and gear sat ready by the edge of my bed as if mocking me. The stress of work, the expectations, the ‘unavoidable’—all of it presses me down like a heavy cloak.

Rosette’s words from...