Perilous Sea || Homer Series

Chapter Eight

Days passed in a blur.

Time never stops, no matter how much we wish it would.

Lexine giggled as she held up a red crisscross backless dress. "I want this one."

We were inside Casperille Clothing Line, a boutique known for its aesthetic and sophisticated fashion.

"I'll try this on, Cean. Judge it for me," she said, already making her way to the fitting room.

"Go ahead," I shrugged, my eyes wandering over the racks of dresses.

I wasn’t sure what I wanted to wear—until my gaze landed on a navy blue plunging neck gown. It was simple yet elegant. Unlike Lexine’s daring choice, this dress was long, but its deep neckline and high slit on the left side made it equally alluring.

"Cean!" Lexine’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. Grabbing the dress, I walked toward her.

The sight of her made my lips part. Damn.

She looked stunning. The dress hugged her curves in all the right places.

She raised a brow and spun around, flexing her hips playfully. We burst into laughter.

"You look fabulous, Lexine," I grinned.

She smirked. "Of course. I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t."

I rolled my eyes at her dramatics. "Yeah, yeah."

Then, out of nowhere, her expression softened. "I don’t think I want to be in a relationship again."

I blinked at her sudden change of tone.

"It’s better to be single for now. No one to control you," she mused.

I tilted my head. "That makes sense."

She pursed her lips before shrugging. "I’ll just go with the flow. Whoever comes… comes."

I nodded, understanding her sentiment.

Then her gaze dropped to the dress in my hands. "Try it on. My turn to judge." Before I could protest, she pushed me toward the fitting room.

Shaking my head, I stepped inside.

It had been three months since that family dinner. So much had happened—exams were over, and I had done well. Three months since I last saw Wyatt. No word from him. As for the case… still ongoing. The complexity of it all stretched time, dragging it out like an endless storm.

I turned to the mirror.

The dress fit me perfectly. The slit showed off my legs, and the fabric hugged my body in a way that made me feel… different. More confident. My height made the dress even more striking, and the neckline—God, the neckline—made my chest look firm and elegant rather than exposed.

Satisfied, I stepped outside—only to stop short.

Lexine was chatting with someone. She had already changed back into her casual clothes.

She turned when she noticed me and gasped.

"Oh my God, Cean! You look so sexy! Your legs are—damn!"

Heat crept up my neck, especially when I noticed the man standing beside her.

"Is it okay?" I asked hesitantly.

Lexine nodded way too enthusiastically. "More than okay! That dress was made for you."

I glanced at the guy beside her. He wasn’t familiar. Dashing but fierce—his cold demeanor made him look distant, unreadable.

Something about him…

I bit the inside of my cheek, pushing away the thought.

Lexine smirked knowingly before introducing him. "This is Donovan Kyros, a friend of mine."

She turned to him. "And this is Oceanna Homer, my best friend."

I offered a polite smile. He simply nodded in acknowledgment.

"I have errands to run. I need to go," Donovan said flatly.

Lexine pouted but waved him off. "Alright. Take care."

Without another word, he turned and walked away, never looking back.

Lexine burst into laughter. "Nothing’s changed with him. Still the same old Donovan—stiff and inexplicable. But… hotter!"

I shot her a look. "What happened to ‘I’m staying single’?"

She scoffed. "Relax, Cean. I was just complimenting him."

I smirked. "Whatever, Lexine Brianna. But we need to go, or we’ll be late for Hailey’s birthday."

Her eyes widened in horror. "s**t! I forgot!"

Grabbing my arm, she dragged me toward the counter.

We bickered over who would pay for the dresses, but in the end, she won—stubborn as ever.

As I fixed my hair, I checked the time. Four o’clock. Hailey’s debut started at six. I needed to get ready.

I turned toward the door at the sound of a knock. "Come in!"

I was already in my room, putting the final touches on my outfit.

Helena stepped inside, dressed in a sleek black dress paired with striking red heels. Her makeup was subtle, her hair neatly tied up, yet there was something feral about her aura tonight.

My brows furrowed. "Do you need something?"

Her expression remained unreadable. "Mama wants you to come to Mr. Albaran’s party. It’s their son’s homecoming."

I shook my head. "I can’t. I already have plans."

She didn’t react.

"Are you mad at me?" I asked, studying her carefully.

Her face remained blank. "No."

Then, without another word, she turned and left, closing the door behind her.

I exhaled. We hadn’t spoken much since our argument last month about Kuya Dylan. Maybe she was still upset, even if she wouldn’t admit it.

Before I could dwell on it further, my phone buzzed. Lexine.

"Hey," I answered.

"Are you ready?" she asked, her voice practically vibrating with excitement.

"Almost. Just finishing up."

She groaned dramatically. "Cean, it’s already four-thirty! We’re going to be late!"

I rolled my eyes. "It starts at six. You’re overreacting."

"Hailey’s turning eighteen! Who wouldn’t overreact?! I helped Monica with the preparations, you know!" She sounded so proud of herself.

I chuckled. "Alright, alright. We’ll call each other when we get there."

I was about to end the call when—

"Wait! Do you have a gift for Hailey? I forgot to buy one."

I bit my lip, suppressing my laughter. Seriously?

We had literally been at the mall earlier.

"I can hear you laughing, Cean! Ugh, I know I’m stupid, but come on—help me!" she whined.

I shook my head in disbelief. "You remembered to buy lipstick for yourself, but not a gift for the birthday girl?"

"You’re not funny! What do I do?! It’s almost five!"

I shrugged. "Just give her the lipstick. Hailey likes the same brands as you."

A horrified gasp. "Oh no, that’s my favorite. Limited edition, Cean!"

I smirked. "So? Are you really going to show up empty-handed?"

"Whatever! I’ll figure it out—but not my lipsticks!" she huffed before abruptly hanging up.

I laughed, shaking my head as I placed my phone on the table.

Sliding on my black heels, I took one last look in the mirror. It had taken me almost an hour to get ready, but it was worth it.

Five o’clock.

As I made my way downstairs, I spotted Manang Si. My parents were gone—probably left for the Albaran’s party. Did Kuya Daryl go with them?

"Manang Si," I greeted.

She turned to me, her face lighting up with a warm smile. "Oh, Cean."

Her gaze traveled from my heels to my dress, admiration shining in her eyes.

"You look beautiful."

I smiled. "Thank you, Manang."

She approached me, and I bent slightly so she could reach my face. Her calloused hands, warm and familiar, cupped my cheek.

Then, her expression shifted. "You’re cold."

I beamed at her. "It’s probably the weather."

She didn’t seem convinced, but she let it go. "Go on now, you’ll be late."

I kissed her cheek before heading out.

At the venue, I parked my car and stepped out, adjusting my dress.

A familiar figure waved at me from near the entrance—Francois.

"You look gorgeous," he murmured, taking my hand and tucking it into his arm.

I chuckled. "You look dashing too, Francois."

He smirked. "Don’t make me blush, Oceanna."

We both laughed.

"Let’s go inside," he said, leading the way.

Halfway to the entrance, I suddenly remembered Lexine. Had she arrived yet? I reached for my phone.

"Is something wrong?" Francois asked.

"Lexine. I was going to text her."

He waved a hand dismissively. "She’s already inside. I saw her while waiting for you."

I raised an eyebrow. "So you were waiting for me, huh?"

His lips quirked into a teasing smile. "Always, Oceanna."

I rolled my eyes, nudging him. "Let’s go, you flirt."

The venue was breathtaking. Every detail—from the delicate floral arrangements to the elegant drapes and perfectly set tables—was meticulously planned. The soft glow of chandeliers cast a warm light over the scene, making everything look ethereal.

I took it all in, letting my eyes wander—until I spotted Lexine waving wildly from across the room.

Francois chuckled. "She’s very hyper."

I nodded. "She is."

We made our way to our table, where our friends were already waiting.

Lexine looked as alluring as ever, like a perfect porcelain doll. Her makeup was flawless, and her dress hugged her figure in all the right ways.

Beside her stood Ulysses—one word to describe him? Hot.

"You're late," Lexine accused, crossing her arms.

Everyone at our table laughed, including me.

I rolled my eyes. "Stop bluffing, Lexine. Did you finally get a gift?" I teased.

She stuck out her tongue playfully. "Of course," she flipped her hair dramatically. "I asked Ebony to buy one for me."

"Who's Ebony? Your new boyfriend?" Ulysses asked, a smirk playing on his lips.

Lexine chuckled. "No, he's just a friend. If you only knew…" She shot me a knowing glance.

"A suitor then?" Herika chimed in.

My attention shifted to her. Damn. She looked like an actual angel—flawless skin, delicate features, and a red dress that made her glow even in the dim lighting.

"You’re mesmerizing, Herika," I admitted, unable to hold back my admiration.

She playfully rolled her eyes. "Don't flatter me, Oceanna. You’re the one who’s stunning—with or without makeup."

Before I could respond, Lexine made a dramatic face, her eyes narrowing at me like I’d personally offended her.

"What’s with the face, Lexine?" Zephyr asked, chuckling.

My gaze flickered to Zephyr, and I had to admit—he looked scorching tonight, his shirt slightly unbuttoned, revealing just enough to tease. I used to have a crush on him back in the day. He was charming, gentlemanly, and dangerous in all the right ways.

Lexine huffed, crossing her arms like a child. "Oceanna complimented Herika but not me."

I stared at her in disbelief. Seriously?

"Lexine, I already complimented you earlier. And hello? I was literally with you when you bought your dress."

She flipped her hair with a dramatic sigh. "Oh, whatever."

"You two dodged the question. So—who exactly is Ebony?" Monica asked, raising a suspicious brow.

I smirked at her. "You look gorgeous, Monica." Then, with a teasing smile, I added, "Sidney’s going to be mesmerized for sure."

But instead of the usual playful banter, her expression shifted.

The smile faded from her lips.

Silence fell over the table.

A frown tugged at my lips. "Did I say something wrong?" I asked, confused.

Monica cleared her throat and looked away. "Hmm…"

Something was off.

I leaned forward. "Monica, what’s wrong?" My voice softened. She suddenly looked… fragile.

She hesitated before whispering, "He’s not courting me anymore."

I blinked. "Huh? What do you mean? Are you sure?"

I turned to Zanita, who had been unusually quiet.

"Is that true?" I asked her.

She nodded.

"But… how? Why?" My voice trailed off as an uneasy feeling settled in my chest.

Zanita simply shook her head.

And just like that, the atmosphere at the table shifted.

Something wasn't right.

I couldn’t wrap my head around it. One moment, we were just having fun, and the next—I had opened a topic that shifted the entire mood.

I didn’t know.

Sidney had always seemed so obsessed with Monica. This didn’t make sense.

"He's just confused. He’ll come back," Zanita said reassuringly.

Monica squeezed her eyes shut for a moment before forcing a small smile. "It's okay. Maybe we can talk about it some other time. I don’t want to ruin my sister’s debut."

And just like that, she pushed her emotions aside. Before anyone could respond, someone called her name, and she excused herself politely.

I licked my lips, unease settling in my chest. This was exactly why I didn’t want to enter a relationship yet.

"Enough about that. Let’s just enjoy the night, hmm?" Zephyr chimed in, sensing the tension.

"The program’s about to start. Let’s settle down," Francois added.

We nodded and took our seats as the lights dimmed, signaling the start of the program.

The host’s voice boomed through the speakers.

"Now, let’s welcome the beautiful birthday celebrant, Ms. Hailey Claudios, with her escort, Vein Coquete!"

My entire body stiffened.

I turned to Lexine just in time to see her face drain of color, her jaw slightly agape.

She blinked, snapping her head toward me, eyes wide. "What?"

I quickly grabbed her hand, feeling how cold it had become. Oh, s**t.

Vein. Her ex. The one she used to be crazy about.

What were the odds?

I squeezed her hand lightly. "Calm down, Lexine. I think they’re blood-related." It was the only logical explanation. Right?

But the darkening of her eyes told me she wasn’t convinced. "How the hell am I supposed to enjoy this now?" she muttered, trying to keep her voice down.

The crowd erupted into applause as Hailey descended the grand staircase, looking absolutely stunning.

She radiated elegance, her gown flowing behind her like something out of a fairytale. Her happiness was contagious, her eyes shimmering under the lights.

My lips curled into a soft smile. She looks perfect. I wonder if I’ll ever experience something like that.

Then, my gaze shifted.

To him.

Vein stood beside her, his hand gently guiding her down the steps.

But his expression? Completely unreadable. No smile. No warmth. Just stoic indifference.

I tilted my head. Why are guys always so hard to read?

"Kuya Vein is so handsome," Herika sighed dreamily, staring at him like he was a walking masterpiece.

Lexine’s reaction was instant—her eyes rolled so hard I was surprised they didn’t get stuck.

I pressed my lips together to hold back a laugh.

Bitter much?

"He's not that handsome," Lexine scoffed, a smirk tugging at her lips.

Herika gasped, turning to her in disbelief. "Are you blind, Lex? Do you have an eye problem?"

Lexine shot her a glare. "That’s my opinion."

I shook my head, amused. This is coming from the same girl who used to call him her ideal type.

Herika shook her head in mock disappointment. "If that’s your standard, then you must be aiming for someone out of this world."

Lexine simply pouted, then leaned in, eyes glinting mischievously. "Why don’t you ask me who is my type?"

Herika immediately perked up. "Who?"

The rest of us went silent, waiting for her answer—including the guys.

Lexine grinned, pure mischief dancing in her eyes.

"Do you know Donovan Kyros?" she purred. "Now he is the true definition of pulchritude."

She giggled, and I nearly choked.

Donovan?

The guy from the clothing store?

Seriously?

HErika frowned, deep in thought, before realization lit up her face. "Wait… you mean Deianira’s twin brother? Oh my gosh, you’re right! I first saw him back in high school—such a snob! He acted like he was too good for everyone."

Ulysses, arms crossed, nodded thoughtfully. "Vein and Donovan are friends, right? I saw them together last week. They’re even in the same course." His gaze flicked toward the stage, where Vein stood beside Hailey, looking as unreadable as ever.

Herika chuckled, shaking her head. "No wonder they’re friends. Mysterious guys always have a way of catching our attention, don’t they?"

"Guys, let’s drop the topic for now and just listen to Asher," I said, nudging them lightly.

Asher, one of our friends, stood on the stage, gripping the mic with a casual confidence. His soft voice filled the room, effortlessly charming the crowd. I couldn’t help but smile when he caught our gaze and winked.

"Beauty queen of only eighteen

Had some trouble with herself

He was always there to help her

She always belonged to someone else…"

"Go, Asher!" Herika cheered, her voice bright with excitement. We laughed at her enthusiasm.

"I drove for miles and miles

And wound up at your door

I've had you so many times

But somehow, I want more…"

"I swear, his voice is just so soothing," Lexine murmured, her eyes twinkling as she listened.

I smirked, leaning closer to her. "Don’t you love Vein’s voice more, hmm?" I whispered teasingly.

She jolted slightly and shot me a glare. "Shut up, Cean," she hissed, cheeks flushing.

I leaned back with a knowing smile. "Funny how life works, huh? You never expect to see your ex at an event like this."

Lexine's expression darkened, and she smacked my arm. "I said, shut up! I don’t want to talk about Vein." Her narrowed eyes warned me not to push further.

I only shrugged. She could deny it all she wanted, but it was obvious—Vein still had an effect on her.

The event was running smoothly, and we had already reached the eighteenth gift. After the eighteen roses, it would be my turn to sing. Hailey had personally requested it, and honestly, how could I say no? She was too adorable.

A sudden outburst from another table caught our attention.

"Is that Kuya Rue? Oh my gosh, why are all the law school guys are here? This is so good—they all look insanely fine!"

At that, we exchanged knowing glances before turning our attention toward the scene.

Standing next to Donovan was none other than Rue Zaccheus—that ruthless guy. Like Vein and Donovan, he was older than us. A senior.

"Is this some kind of reunion?" Zephyr mused.

We had no answer, just silent speculation. But as I watched them, a strange feeling crept over me. I couldn't predict the future, but one thing was certain—these men were on a different level. Straight-A students. Geniuses in their fields. The kind of people you just knew would leave a mark.

Just like Kuya Nathan.

"It's your turn, Anica!"

Lexine’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts as she tapped my shoulder.

"Huh?" I blinked, still dazed.

"They’ve been calling you for ages! Go on stage!" She nudged me forward, urgency in her voice.

Heat rushed to my cheeks as I made my way up. I could feel the weight of their stares, the anticipation thick in the air.

"Oh, and here she is—the beautiful Oceanna Homer!" Oreo grinned at me, his signature charm on full display.

I mustered a smile in return.

"Let’s give the stage to her—after all, she owns it," he teased.

Laughter rippled through the audience. Oreo always knew how to lighten the mood.

Despite my nerves, I took a deep breath, pushing them aside. I didn’t want to disappoint Hailey. If my family ever found out about this, I’d be doomed—but for now, I just needed to enjoy the moment.

"Hello, everyone," I said, gripping the mic a little tighter. "The first song I’ll be singing is Demons by Imagine Dragons—Hailey’s special request." I glanced toward her and saw her beaming.

"And for the second song," I continued, "it’s Perfect by Ed Sheeran, chosen by none other than her beautiful sister, Monica."

A murmur of excitement spread through the crowd.

"Now, let’s begin as we watch the lovely celebrant share her first dance with the most important men in her life."

"The first dance," Oreo announced dramatically, "will be with Mr. Vein Coquete—the closest cousin of Miss Hailey Cladous!"

So, he’s her cousin, huh?

As the first notes of Demons filled the air, my gaze landed on Vein. His expression was unreadable, as always, but something about the way he moved—the quiet confidence, the intensity—stirred a memory.

For a brief moment, I wasn’t on the stage anymore.

I was somewhere else, thinking about someone else.

I hope he’s doing well right now.