When Rose arrived home, she was met with an unexpected sight—her once simple and cozy home had undergone a complete transformation. The walls were repainted in a warm yet modern shade, new furniture adorned the living room, and the overall ambiance was more stylish than she had left it. She blinked in surprise, taking in the unfamiliar yet inviting decor.
"Daniel?" she called, stepping further inside.
She spotted her brother lounging on the couch, engrossed in a video game, his fingers flying across the controller with precision. He barely spared her a glance as he replied, "Hey, welcome back."
Rose crossed her arms, tilting her head. "Okay, what happened here?"
Pausing his game, Daniel smirked and stretched lazily. "You like it? I gave the house a little makeover. With Stella's help, of course."
Rose let out a soft chuckle, shaking her head. "You and Stella, huh? You two seem to be getting along well."
Daniel shrugged but didn't deny it. "She's good company."
Realizing she hadn't spoken to Stella in a while, Rose pulled out her phone and dialed her friend's number. It didn't take long before Stella answered, her voice as lively as ever.
"Well, well, look who finally remembered she has a friend!" Stella teased.
Rose laughed. "I didn't forget you. I just got caught up with work."
"Uh-huh," Stella drawled. "So what's up? Why are you back on a Monday? You only visit on weekends."
Rose hesitated for the briefest moment before responding smoothly, "I was given a leave."
"A leave?" Stella repeated, her curiosity piqued. "Now that's interesting. Did something happen?"
Rose bit her lip. "Nothing major. Just thought I could use some time off."
"Hmm, sounds like there's more to that story," Stella mused, but she didn't push further. "Anyway, since you're back, we need to hang out. I've missed my partner in crime."
Rose grinned. "Deal."
After ending the call, she turned back to find Daniel watching her with an amused expression. "You're avoiding something."
Rose rolled her eyes as she walked toward the dining table. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Daniel followed, joining her as she dished out their meal. "Oh, you know exactly what I mean. But fine, I won't press. Let's talk about the ball instead. How was it?"
Rose exhaled, grateful for the change of topic. "It was extravagant, just as expected. The place was filled with influential people, and of course, Vivienne was the star of the night."
Daniel nodded as he listened, taking a bite of his food. "And Julian?"
At the mere mention of his name, Rose's grip on her fork tightened for a fraction of a second. But she quickly composed herself, schooling her expression into something neutral. "He was there, as usual, all brooding and unreadable."
Daniel studied her for a moment before letting out a dramatic sigh. "You're hiding something, but fine, I'll let you keep your secrets. For now."
Rose let out a breath of relief, forcing a small smile. "Thank you."
For the rest of the meal, they continued their lighthearted conversation, with Rose deliberately steering clear of any mention of Julian and the complicated mess she had left behind at the Carter estate.