#Chapter 25: Web of Lies

Celeste

The suffocating weight of the ballroom’s atmosphere and the tumultuous whirlwind of emotions pressed me to seek solace. It was time to call my brother before he got suspicious again.

Without a moment’s hesitation, I slipped out of Matt’s grip and darted towards the restrooms. My heels clicked against the marbled floors, echoing the rapid rhythm of my heart.

Barely catching my breath, I locked myself into a stall, carefully placing my mask on the hook and pulling my hair back tightly. With trembling hands, I dialed Jack’s number, holding my breath for what felt like an eternity.

“Finally,” came his gruff voice. The tiny screen lit up with a FaceTime request. “Face me,” he ordered.

Trying to control my racing heart, I angled the camera towards the white-tiled wall, ensuring he couldn’t discern my location.

“Celeste, where are you? Why can't I see you?”

“Just... bear with me,” I whispered, sliding the straps of my dress down and turning the camera towards my face, still carefully